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MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING
NOVEMBER 16, 1976
The City Council of the City of Downey held a special called meeting at 6:15 p.m.,
November 16, 1976, in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Hazel N.
Scotto presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
William L. Greene
Richard M. Jennings, Mayor Pro Tem
Kenneth J. Miller
Theodore H. Jackman
Hazel N. Scotto, Mayor
ALSO PRESENT: Charles W. Thompson, City Manager
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Mayor Scotto explained the purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Southeast
Area Animal Control Authority and then recess to executive session to discuss Police
negotiations.
Councilman Greene stated his objection to meeting at this time when the Council
has a continued hearing on the Proposed Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance scheduled for
7:30 p.m.
Mr. Thompson stated an application for Public Works Funds has been filed by the
Southeast Animal Control Authority.
Councilman Jackman asked when the change in location of the Animal Control was
considered.
Mayor Scotto advised this matter was discussed at great length by the Authority
and minutes were circulated. She said the location selected is the Park Water Com-
pany property at the corner of Pangborn and Washburn.
Councilman Greene questioned the space for the new facility.
Councilman Jackman said he would be willing to study this matter but would not
want to vote tonight.
Mr. Thompson reviewed the history of the site selection and said the proposed
location is south of Park Water Company offices next to the San Gabriel River. He
indicated the land is available, and the Authority authorized its director to negoti-
ate an option for the purchase, which would be acceptable for submittal under the
Public Works Act; the option of $1500 was secured on the basis of an appraisal made
for the Authority.
Councilman Jennings asked if the Authority can legally deposit $1500 on non-
returnable option money without approval of the cities.
Mr. Thompson replied yes, if the funds are in their budget.
Councilman Jennings indicated he feels this matter should not go any further
until the Council receives a legal opinion.
Mr. Thompson explained the Authority cannot obligate the cities for the acquisi-
tion of land or any other capital outlay without approval of the necessary funds to
back it up. He noted, however, that the Authority is a separate governmental entity.
Discussion was held regarding the $7500 cost for engineering expense.
Mayor Scotto commented on the discussions that took place leading to the selection
of this property.
Councilman Jennings stated the Authority was established to operate the animal
shelter but was not authorized to expend funds for the purchase of property.
The Council members expressed concern regarding the value of the property and
the legality of voting on this matter. It was noted that all the cities must approve
of this unanimously.
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Councilman Jennings reiterated his request for a legal opinion from the City
Attorney.
Councilman Jackman questioned the possibility of receiving the grant.
Discussion ensued.
Councilman Miller asked about the terms for purchasing the property.
Mr. Thompson explained the Authority could get a loan on approval of the member
cities, and Park Water Company is willing to discuss the terms of the purchase.
Councilman Jennings suggested this matter be taken under advisement.
Following a question regarding development of Pangborn Avenue, Mr. Thompson indi-
cated Park Water Company will have to dedicate the other half of the street when it is
developed.
At 7:00 p.m., Mayor Scotto recessed the meeting to executive session for purposes
of discussing negotiations with the Downey Police Officers Association. The meeting
resumed at 7:45 p.m. with all Council Members present.
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was
adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
Robert L.L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Hazel . Scotto, Mayor
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