HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-10-13-75-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
OCTOBER 13, 1975
T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S
SUBJECT: ACTION:
National 4-H Week presentation
Appeal, ZE Case #1219, 12609 Izetta Ave
Resolution #3180, Confirming Assmt. for
Chapter 27 for DIP #666, N/s Quill Dr. bet.
Samoline & Rives Ave.
Minutes, Regular City Council Meeting 9/23/75;
Minutes, Adj. Regular City Council Meeting
9/26/75; Minutes, Adj. Regular City Council
Meeting 9/29/75
Agenda Correspondence Items
Denial of Legal Claims:
Ref. #248, 249,,250
CC #361, Parrot Ave. - Accept improvements
CC #371, Unit I, Harper Ave. & Fourth Pl. -
P1ans, specs., & auth. to advertise
CC #383, Furman Park Undergrounding Service
Lines - Plans, specs & auth. to advertise
General Warrants #140271-140602;
#148491-148520; #201748-201781
Special Lot Cleaning, 7105 Dinwiddie St. -
Auth. Dept. Pub. Wks. to proceed
Ordinance Amending DMC re Permits & Business
Licenses
Ordinance Amending DMC re Dog Licenses
Ordinance re Entertainment Facilities & Permits
Resolution #3181, Auth. Building Appeals Board
to act as Fire Appeals Board pursuant to Sec.
3300 DMC & Sec. 1.215, Uniform Fire Code
Resolution #3182, Apprvg. Appointment of
Norman Horney as Member of Planning Comm.
CC #385, SW Corner Luxor St. & Mitla Ave. -
Award to Don R. Hess
Report on Removal of Graffiti from Private
Property
DART Program (Recycling) - Auth. expansion
to ely. portion of Wednesday refuse collection
zone
505 Commission Report, Transportation Funding
in California - Comments of Councilwoman Scotto
(per 10/10/75 memo) to be transmitted to 505
Commission
Comm. from Cn. Greene re Apptmt. of Miss
Virginia Jaeger to Health & Environmental
Sanitation Comm.
Amendments to Capital Improvement Program
PAGE NO.
1
Approved; ref. back to Planning
Comm. f/further recommendations 2
Adopted 3
Approved
3
Filed
3
Approved
3
Approved
3
Approved
3
Approved
3
Approved
3
Approved
3
Introduced
3
Introduced
3
Removed from Agenda
4
Adopted
4
Adopted
4
Approved
4
Taken under submission for
further report from City Mgr.
5
Approved
5
Approved
6
Filed
6
Held
6
Page 1 of 2
COUNCIL MINUTES, OCTOBER 13, 1975
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT:
Executive session
Package proposal for slack periods at the
Rio Hondo Golf Course (Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23)
Downey Museum of Art Renovation
Old No. 1 Fire Station - Enter into 4-yr.
lease agmt. w/SE Council for Alcohol &
Drug Abuse for rental of station
Senior Citizen Bus Transportation Program
to begin next monday (Oct. 20)
Increased Patrol of Golden Park for stray
dogs
Abandoned Lots & Stores - Ordinance &
immediate survey of White Front
105 Freeway
105 Freeway Committee
Mayor & City Manager to visit Guadalajara
Oct. 21 to 25
ACTION: PAGE NO.
6
Approved 6
Report by City Manager 6
Approved 7
Comments of Mr. Spindel 7
Requested by Cn. Winton 7
Requested by Cn. Winton 7
Review by Cn. Winton; proposes
legislative action 8
Appointed by Mayor DiLoreto 8
0
Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
OCTOBER 13, 1975
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m.,
October 13, 1975, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Joseph E.
DiLoreto presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Hazel N. Scotto
Donald H. Winton
William L. Greene
Joseph E. DiLoreto
ABSENT: Council Members:
Richard M. Jennings (excused)
ALSO PRESENT: Charles W. Thompson, City Manager
Donald B. Robison, Assistant City Manager
Carl K. Newton, Acting City Attorney
Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development
Richard D. Patton, Director of Finance
John T. Neavill, Director of Parks & Recreation]
Edwin H. Wood, Fire Chief
William A. Goggin, City Planner
Ray T. Lake, Building Official
F. D. Shade, Captain, Police Department
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Norris Barnes, Downey United Methodist
Church, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilwoman Scotto.
Representing the Greenleaf 4-H Club, Misses Wendy Thompson and Chris Lowe pre-
sented a cake to the Mayor and City Council in honor of National 4-H Week.
Mayor DiLoreto noted he signed a proclamation designating October 6th through 12th
as 4-H Week in the City of Downey.
Mayor DiLoreto declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
Appeal, Zone Exception Case No. 1219, 12609 Izetta Avenue. He inquired if the City
Clerk had the Affidavit of Publication, to which the City Clerk responded in the
affirmative.
It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Winton, and so ordered
to receive the file the Affidavit.
Speaking to the applicants, Mayor DiLoreto advised that since there are four
Council Members present and the vote could be tied, this would constitute denial of
the case, He asked if the applicants would like to have this matter continued to the
next night meeting for a full Council.
The applicants replied they would like to have the case heard tonight.
City Planner Goggin reported the request is to connect the home to a detached
garage with an addition in the middle, construction of which has been completed, making
the accessory building,which is the garage, part of the main structure. He said since
the garage is two feet from the property line and City ordinance requires all main
structures to be four feet from the property line, the applicants are requesting the
side yard setback requirement be modified to two feet. Mr. Goggin submitted photographs
of the property and structure.
Mayor DiLoreto inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in favor
of the appeal.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Siemann, 12609 Izetta Avenue, Downey, the applicants, addressed
the City Council. Mrs. Siemann said their request is not to move the garage wall two
feet to the north, and she pointed out that their neighbor to the north has a two -foot
side yard setback with the garage attached to the house. She presented an agreement
signed by neighbors to the south agreeing to the request to leave the garage wall where
it is since it does constitute a part of the wall dividing the properties. She also
presented a petition circulated among the resident property owners living within 500
feet of the property. Mrs. Siemann further explained there is a door at the rear of the
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -1-
.. ate; _•a.'6
garage which gives access to the back of the property. She pointed out that if the
garage wall does have to be moved, there will be a narrow strip of property which is
unusable. Responding to questions, Mrs. Siemann stated the garage was an existing
garage which was attached to the addition, and it has always been two feet from the
property line.
Mr. Siemann added that the wall which attaches the garage to the living quarters
is a fire wall, however, if a fire wall is required on the outside wall of the garage,
he would be happy to comply.
Mayor DiLoreto inquired if there was anyone else present who wished to speak in
favor of the appeal, and there was no response. He inquired if there was anyone pre-
sent who wished to speak in opposition, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to close the hearing.
City Clerk Shand stated he has not received any correspondence on this matter.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Fire Chief Wood recommended that a one -hour fire wall be placed on the garage
adjacent to the neighbor's property.
Building Official Lake suggested that any approval be made subject to the
conditions of the building code.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by
the following vote that the Appeal to Zone Exception Case No. 1219, 12609 Izetta
Avenue, be approved and referred back to the Planning Commission for further
recommendations according to the Municipal Codes.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT„ 1 Council Member: Jennings
Mayor DiLoreto declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
- Downey Improvement Project No. 666, Site 1, North side of Quill Drive between Samoline
Avenue and Rives Avenue. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavit of Posting
and Mailing, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered
to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor DiLoreto inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not.
Community Development Director Spindel reported on the cost for construction of
sidewalks at the following location and recommended the Council confirm the assessment:
Site 1 - 7903 Quill Drive
Total Cash Assessment $153.00
Interest, 3-yr. period 21.53
Release of Lien Fee 6.00
Total to be collected $180.53
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered
to receive the Engineer's Report.
Mayor DiLoreto inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in opposi-
tion to the improvements, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to close the hearing.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -2-
RESOLUTION NO. 3180
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT FOR CHAPTER 27 PROCEEDINGS
FOR DOWNEY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 666, NORTH SIDE OF
QUILL DRIVE BETWEEN SAMOLINE AND RIVES AVENUE
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Winton,
seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3180.
AYES. 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed
by the following vote to approve the Consent Calendar:
Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 23 1975.
Minutes of the Adjourned Regular City Council Meeting of September 26 1975.
Minutes of the Adjourned Regular City Council Meeting of September 29 1975.
Communication from John M. Reed, M.B.A., regarding Resignation from Health &
Environmental Sanitation Committee.
Communication from Public Utilities Commission regarding Pacific Telephone Co
application for offering 801-A Dial PBX Service.
Communication from Pacific Telephone and Telegraph Company regarding Rate
Increase - Private Branch Exchange.
Denial of Legal Claims: Ref. #248, Carl Chavers• Ref. #249 Colonna J. Wine;
, Christine G. C1
Cash Contract #361, Parrot Avenue - Accept the improvements completed in
conjunction with the subject project and responsibility for maintenance thereof.
Cash Contract #371, Unit I, Harper Avenue and Fourth Place - Approve plans,
specifications, and grant authority to advertise for bids.
Cash Contract #383, Furman Park Undergrounding Service Lines - Approve plans,
specifications, and authorize advertising for bids.
General Warrants: #140271 - 140602• 46148491 - 148520• 0201748 - 201781:
$876,378.49.
Special Lot Cleaning, 7105 Dinwiddie Street - Authorize the Department of Public
Works to proceed with cleaning of the property at an estimated cost of $275.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ADDING SECTION 6220 TO THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH
SAID SECTION RELATES TO PERMITS AND BUSINESS LICENSES
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Winton,
seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed
by the following vote to introduce the Ordinance.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 4231 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH
SAID SECTION RELATES TO DOG LICENSES
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Winton,
seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -3-
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to introduce the Ordinance.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Ordinance relating to Entertainment Facilities and Permits was removed from the
Agenda, pending further discussion with the City Manager and City Attorney.
RESOLUTION NO. 3181
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING THE BUILDING APPEALS BOARD TO ACT AS A FIRE
APPEALS BOARD PURSUANT TO SECTION 3300 OF THE DOWNEY
MUNICIPAL CODE AND SECTION 1.215 OF THE UNIFORM FIRE CODE
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Winton,
seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3181.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
RESOLUTION NO. 3182
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF NORMAN HORNEY AS A MEMBER
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Winton,
seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3182.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Mayor DiLoreto acknowledged the presence of Mr. Norman Horney in the audience.
Councilman Winton indicated Mr. Horney has been serving on the Building Appeals
Board and will be resigning. Therefore, he will take steps to fill the vacancy on
that board.
Following a summation of bids, it was moved by Councilman Winton, seconded by
Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by the following vote to award Cash Contract #385,
Southwest Corner of Luxor Street and Mitla Avenue, in the amount of $4,237.60, to
Don R. Hess of Long Beach, the lowest and best bidder.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Report on Removal of Graffiti from Private Property
Community Development Director Spindel stated this is presented for Council
information. He asked for direction from the Council as to whether an ordinance
should be prepared.
Councilman Greene mentioned there is a City nearby that has a program of remov-
ing graffiti without any charge to the property owners. He said he is not in favor
of charging $25 for removal of graffiti because it is discriminatory to those who
cannot afford it.
Mayor DiLoreto stated that graffiti on a wall or building is not placed there
by the property owner, yet he would be the one penalized.
Councilman Winton commented he would like to see the rate changed to $200 an
hour for a period of time to clean up graffiti in the 105 Freeway corridor, which
can be billed to the State.
Referring to budgetary considerations, Mr. Spindel pointed out that efforts are
made to keep budget expenditures down as much as possible. He said this program
could be set up the same as lot cleaning, which is paid for by the property owner.
Commenting further, Mr. Spindel explained if the City entered into an extensive
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -4-
graffiti removing program, either additional manpower would have to be provided or some
of the activities curtailed.
Discussion was held regarding use of CETA employees.
Mr. Spindel indicated the equipment is complicated and if not handled properly
could be dangerous to use.
Commenting on the work that might be involved, Mr. Spindel said the City could be
surveyed; that from what has been seen throughout the City, it might take approximately
150 manhours, not counting the freeway right-of-way.
Councilwoman Scotto inquired if other cities had been surveyed.
City Manager replied no, however, he has talked to other cities about the graffiti
problem. He said he is aware of other cities instituting specific programs to control
graffiti, working through youth clubs and groups and neighborhood organizations. He
indicated he would report on this.
Taken under submission for further report from the City Manager.
DART Program (Recycling)
Mayor DiLoreto mentioned apparently the program has been moderately successful.
Commenting that 50 percent of the residents are not participating, Councilman
Winton inquired if additional efforts have been made to reach the other 50 percent.
Mr. George Lawrence, representative of Vans & Associates, 1732 Silverlake
Boulevard, Los Angeles 90026, explained two follow-ups have been made so that each
resident in the initial recycling area has been contacted at least twice. He said
they are requesting to change the existing area to every other week and to start a
new area every other week. He stated the reason for changing to an every other week
program is to keep the rubbish trucks in operation on a weekly basis, on alternate
Wednesdays.
Community Development Director Spindel explained the collection area is centered
on Firestone Boulevard with the current area between the west city limits and Downey
Avenue, and the proposed area between Downey Avenue and the east city limits.
It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Winton, and passed
by the following vote to authorize the expansion of the DART Program to the easterly
portion of the Wednesday refuse collection zone.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
505 Commission Report, Transportation Funding in California
Community Development Director Spindel displayed charts showing increases in
construction costs by contract, taking contract costs from 1968 to 1975, and a compari-
son of revenues from Gas Tax Funds received by the City vs. street maintenance and
operation. He said the charts give a picture of how costs have risen, while revenues
from Gas Tax are decreasing.
The chart, reflected the County Aid to Cities money received for maintenance of
select system streets. Highways -through -Cities funds received from the County were
also pointed out..
Mr. Spindel said additional sources of revenue are needed. Otherwise, the
General Fund will be hit very hard.
Councilwoman Scotto reported she chaired the League of California Cities State
Finance Committee that made a statement to the 505 Commission. She said the Committee
did not make any specific suggestions as to the amount of increases in taxing but is
exploring these avenues and is concerned about the SB 325 funds. She mentioned her
i
memo to the Council recommends that 6afunds should be opened up and come back
into local communities. Councilwoman Scotto noted since the inception of the tax in
1971, the City has received no more public transportation. She asked that the comments
in her memo be sent to the 505 Commission with reference that the Council concurs with
the League of California Cities" statement.
Mr. Spindel stated the decision of how the Gas Tax funds are to be spent should be
up to the elected City Councils and County Board of Supervisors of the various cities
and counties.
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -5-
Discussion followed.
Mayor DiLoreto suggested that a letter or resolution be drafted stating that the
person deciding on how the money is to be used will be the people who will spend the
money. He said he would not want the City to be supporting a concept or idea whereby
through its action or inaction it would designate SCAG or another agency to be a
clearing house for all of the funds.
Mr. Spindel explained that funds from Gas Tax 2106 and 2107 are dispersed through
the State Controller's office, and it should continue. Also, he said the funds can be
used for maintenance of select system streets or construction.
Further discussion ensued.
It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Winton, and passed by
the following vote that the comments of Councilwoman Scotto on the 505 Commission
(per October 10, 1975 memo) be transmitted to the 505 Commission.
AYES:
2
Council
Members:
Scotto, Winton
NOES:
1
Council
Member:
DiLoreto
ABSENT:
1
Council
Member:
Jennings
ABSTAIN:
1
Council
Member:
Greene
Acting City Attorney Newton advised the vote is a passage of the majority.
Communication from Councilman Greene regarding Appointment of Miss Virginia Jaeger
as a member of the Health and Environmental Sanitation Committee. Filed.
City Manager Thompson asked that Agenda Item XI-B-5, Amendments to Capital
Improvements Program be held.
Mr. Thompson requested the City Council to go into executive session to consider
about three items of potential litigation.
Councilman Greene introduced his appointee to the Planning Commission, Mr. Neil
Claiborne.
Mayor DiLoreto recessed the meeting to executive session at 8:54 p.m. to consider
potential litigation. The meeting resumed at 10:13 p.m. with Council Members Scotto,
Winton, Greene, DiLoreto present; Council Member Jennings absent.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager Thompson reported on a request from the Rio Hondo Men's Golf Club for
consideration of a package proposal for slack periods at the Rio Hondo Golf Course,
which he said was studied by a committee consisting of representatives from the Men's
Club, the concessionaire, City staff, and Councilman Greene. He stated the
recommendation is that a pilot program be established for the month of November on the
2nd, 9th, 16th, and 23rd and would provide for two free buckets of balls, a buffet
dinner, and nine holes of golf for $10-pAr' couple or twosome, beginning at 2:00 p.m.
Mr. Thompson noted if sufficient interest is indicated, then it is recommended the
pilot program continue on through Sunday afternoons and extend through the month of
December and indefinitely until tournament play would require usage of the golf course
for regular play, with possibly extending it to Monday afternoons at 2:00 p.m.
Councilman Greene took exception to a newspaper article which referred to sagging
revenues at the Golf Course. He said the idea of the program is to get people in the
community interested in playing golf, but it had nothing to do with sagging revenues.
It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Winton, and passed by
the following vote to approve the golf course proposal for slack periods at the Rio
Hondo Golf Course.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Commenting on the Downey Museum of Art Renovation, Mr. Thompson indicated that
although there will be some curtailment of the museum hours the next couple of months,
the program is under way.
Mr. Thompson mentioned a meeting and conference was held with interested bidders
on the Old No. 1 Fire Station, and it has been a difficult process to select from among
two very good bidders. He said in view of the fact that it is necessary to come to a
conclusion in everyone's interest, he is recommending the City enter into a four-year
lease agreement with the Southeast Council for Alcohol and Drug Abuse, with a minimum
rental amounting to $1285 and a maximum monthly rental in the first year per month
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -6-
or $1660, $1760 the second year, $1860 the third year, and $1960 the fourth year. Mr.
Thompson indicated he would like to have the opportunity to explore other alternatives
with Reverend Beeson. Also, he pointed out that a committee consisting of Councilman
Jennings and Mayor DiLoreto has reviewed this and concurs with the recommendation.
It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by
the following vote to enter into a four-year lease agreement with the Southeast Council
for Alcohol and Drug Abuse for rental of the Old No. 1 Fire Station.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Scotto, Winton, Greene, DiLoreto
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings
Mr. Thompson requested Agenda item XI-B-5, Amendments to Capital Improvement
Program, be held over an additional meeting for further consideration.
IaLns WIT il�`KIft7 *Ito]�&I
Community Development Director Spindel explained the Senior Citizen Bus
Transportation Program is expected to begin next monday (October 20th).
Mr. Thompson stated it will be a dial -a -ride type of program, and press releases
will be ready by Friday.
Captain Shade of the Downey Police Department commented that as part of a six -week
training program for foreign police officials there are five dignitaries from Japan
visiting the City of Downey, including the Inspector from the Japanese National Police,
Division Chief of the Tokoyo Metropolitan Police, and Inspector from the Hong Kong
Police. He stated the dignitaries arrived this afternoon, were given a tour of the
facilities, and then were sent out with the narcotics detail to engage in some under-
cover narcotics enforcement activities.
Councilman Greene inquired about the scheduled date of December 15th for the City
of Downey to take over Communications for the City of Montebello Fire Department.
Mr. Thompson replied the agreement for the new Headquarters Fire Station calls
for dispatching of fire services for the City of Montebello, as well as cities of
Lynwood and Santa Fe Springs, at a considerable cost savings.
Councilwoman Scotto questioned the Recreation and Community Services Commission's
recommendation for approving a request of the Downey Junior Women's Club to conduct a
Survey of Cultural Groups and Services under the direction of the Parks & Recreation
Department.
Mr. Thompson advised it is a study; that staff has reviewed the recommendation
and concurs.
Councilman Winton asked for Increased Patrol of Golden Park by the Police Depart-
ment in the 4:00-to-6;00 a.m. hours for packs of dogs consistently in that area. He
further asked for more surveillance from the Parks & Recreation staff in that park for
stray animals. He commented on the increased number of calls from residents in the
area.
Councilman Winton asked that the City's staff and legal staff bring before the
City Council an ordinance applicable to City codes relevant to Abandoned Lots and
Stores which are no longer in business. He said the ordinance should have enforcement
capabilities of establishing fences on these areas so they cannot be utilized without
maintenance and patrol. He cited the Leonards Department Store parking lot and White
Front parking lot as prime examples. Councilman Winton further requested that the
ordinance provide for capabilities and a heavy fine of those people abandoning the
buildings or not maintaining them according to code. He called for staff to
immediately survey the White Front area and commence action to have it brought up to
City codes and patrolled.
Councilman Winton commented the latest report of Fire and Police Calls for
Assistance shows that District One calls for the month of September exceed the other
three districts. He stated the 1970 Census shows almost one-third of the City's
population in District One, as well as approximately 82 percent of the industry, and
he indicated the Council should give consideration to that district when studying the
new zoning ordinance pertaining to land use and density.
Councilman Winton stated the City of Downey has just passed its fourth anniversary
after the signing of the 105 Freeway Street Closing Agreement. He mentioned that the
latest unofficial estimate he has for the construction cost of this 17-mile project is
850 million dollars. Councilman Winton presented photographs of structures in the
freeway corridor showing vandalism and graffiti of homes still being occupied. He saic
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -7-
he intends to send the photographs to Governor Brown and ask for executive action on
this project. He commented on resolutions and actions taken by the City Council since
1958; projections by the State (Cal Trans) that the freeway would be completed in 1976;
the Court injunction declaring no further property could be removed, however, the State
was also to maintain the property in status quo condition as of that date, which it has
not done; and the City Attorney's opinion dated April 19, 1973, regarding certain
alternatives that might be taken forcing the State to maintain properties according to
the agreement.
Councilman Winton said it is time for the City to start some legislative action to
force Cal Trans to abandon this project within the City of Downey. He suggested the
City Council set up a field trip for all members of the Chamber of Commerce, the Board
of Realtors, and any prominent citizen in the City who is interested, and Staff, and
that the Council initiate legislation forcing Cal Trans to abandon this particular por-
tion of the freeway and immediately turn over to the City for administration of
restoration of those homes which can be restored, to pay for administration costs from
revenue of sale of the homes, and any excess funds be refunded back to the State.
Councilman Winton proposed the City Council consider alternative actions to be taken
and asked that a committee be formed to start studying this project immediately.
Mayor DiLoreto concurred that the City should be looking at alternatives. However,
he said the Council should be careful when viewing alternatives of severance with the
freeway, and he spoke against seeking any type of HUD, State, or Federal funds for
rehabilitation of the area.
Mayor DiLoreto indicated he would appoint Councilman Winton and another Councilman
to serve on a committee.
Discussion followed.
Councilman Winton asked that Councilman Greene serve on the committee with him.
Councilman Green agreed.
Mayor DiLoreto noted that he and the City Manager will be out of the City from
Tuesday until Saturday (October 21 to 25) for the Guadalajara Visit,
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was
adjourned at 11.02 p.m.
Robert L. Shand,'
City Clerk -Treasurer JosephE� DiLoreto, Mayor
Council Minutes 10/13/75 -8-