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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-02-08-77-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FEBRUARY 8. 1977 T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S SUBJECT: ACTION: PAGE NO. Presentations to Primo Virrey and Chuck Eccleston I Removal of Items from Consent Calendar 1 Minutes: Recessed Meeting, December 22, 1976; Regular Meeting, January 25, 1977 Approved 1 Denial of Legal Claims: Ref. #305, 307, 308, 309, & 311 Approved 1 General Warrants #150273-150492: #203153-203201 Approved 1 Correspondence from City of Compton re Progressive Reorganization of County Set aside 1 DPC #100, W/s Bellflower B1. N/o Imperial: DPC #101, Deming St. S/o Gardendale; & DPC #103, Easement S/o Florence Ave. W/o Chaney: Accept dedication of improvements Approved 1 Ordinance #521. Amending Zoning Map adopted by Sec. 9107 DMC (Plan. Rs. #153. Zone Change #125) Adopted 2 Resolution #3372. Consenting to Establishment of Portion of Foster Rd, within City as Part of System of Hwys, of County Adopted 2 Resolution #3373, Anorvg. SuDoT. #2 of Downey/ State A.gmt. #43 for Const. of Foster Rd. Bike Bridge over Rio San Gabriel Channel. Adopted 2 City/Coun.ty Project Agmt, for Foster Road Bicycle Bridge, Rio San Gabriel Channel Approved; Mayor auth. to sign 2 Resolution #3374, Rea. Bd/Supervisors of County Flood Cont. Dist, of State to Accept Transfer & Conveyance of Storm Drain Imnrvmts. (CC #SS-310) Misc. Transfer Drain #641 in City Adopted 2 Resolution Prohibiting Parking for Street Cleaning Purposes E/s Downey Ave, bet. Sixth & Seventh on Thursday from 7-10am (Tow -away zone) Continued under submission 3 Resolution Auth. Use of Local Agency Investment Fund under Office of Calif. State Treasurer as Investment Media Alternative Taken under submission 3 Resolution #3375, Req. Estimate of Assessed Valuation of Property within City for Succeeding Fiscal Year Adopted 3 Resolution #3376, Auth. Cerritos Juvenile Diversion Project to Enter into Service Contracts Adopted 4 Sidewalk Matching Funds, M.F. #476 Approved 4 DIP #695. W/s Birchbark Ave.. Telegranh to Birchcrest: If agmt, bet, ppty. owner & staff. curbside sidewalks be 4' wide with exception of sly, end & sign moved to south Approved 5 DIP #696. W/s Bellflower B1, bet. Buckles & Stewart & Gray: Initiation of Chapter. 27 & SMF $613 Approved 5 Page 1 of 2 COUNCIL MINUTES, FEBRUARY 8, 1977 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS SUBJECT: ACTION: Modifications to Rio Hondo Golf Professional. (Parlove.. Inc.) Contract: Provide for Parlove to meet reasonable obligations for 1.975-76 & 1976-77 fiscal years & rebid contrast 7/T/77 Annroved Use of Rio Hondo Golf Course by Cerritos College Golf Team - Agreement for Reduced Annroved w/exception of 12:00 Green Fees o'clock starting time Recognition plaque at Downey Theatre lobby for. Bicentennial Mural - Request of Bicentennial Commission Denied Apptmt, of Mrs. Frieda McKillivary to Rose Float Committee, Dist. 3 Approved Promotion of Van Pooling in Downey Area: Downey to co-sponsor April 12th meeting in Green Room Approved Apptmts, of Craig Harper, Mary Ellen Harper, & Bill Alexander to Rose Float Assn., Dist. 1 Approved Tax Impact Study Committee: Hire Dr. Hom of Institute of Tax Admin. USC & transfer of not to exceed $1500 w/o Council approval from Special Services Account Approved Council request for staff to provide recommenda- tion re cost to landscape entrance to City Hall & Downey Theatre, & City Hall patio Rives Avenue School - Cn. Jennings to bring bark recommendations re rehabilitation Serving Champagne Punch in Green Room - Recommendation of Rec. & Comm. Serv. Comm. To be placed on next Agenda Revision of City Council Agenda To be placed on next Agenda: City Mgr, to bring back format Removal of Homes in 105 Freeway Corridor City Attorney to bring back estimate of costs to pursue Meeting adjourned to 2/15/77 for study session on Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance re signs. PAGE NO. 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7 8 7 7 Page 2 of 2 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FEBRUARY 8, 1977 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m., February 8, 1977, in the Council Chamber 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 Royal M. Sorenson, City Attorney Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development Richard D. Patton, Director of Finance John T. Neavill, Director of Parks and Recreation Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief Edwin H. Wood, Fire Chief William A. Goggin, City Planner Ray T. Lake, Building Official Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary The Invocation was delivered by Councilman Greene, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Jackman. With the assistance of Community Development Director Spindel, Mayor Scotto presented stered Civil Engineer's Certification to Primo Virrey and Registered Traffic Engineer's ification to Chuck Eccleston. Removal of Items from Consent Calendar Agenda Items VIII-B-1, Correspondence from City of Compton;, VIII-F-1, DPC #100; VIII-F-2, DPC #101; and VIII-F-3, DPC #103, were removed from the Consent Calendar. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the Remainder of the Consent Calendar: Minutes: Recessed Meeting of December 22, 197 Denial of Leea1 Claims: Ref. #305. Maurice Pi t 25. 1477. Rer. #JUB, Elias Gurrola; Ref. #309. Stacv Moore: and Ref. #311. Amanda Sandv General Warrants: #150273 - 150492; #203153 - 203201: $624,551.08. Correspondence from City of Compton regarding Progressive Reorganization of Los Angeles County. Mayor Scotto explained a number of cities are attempting to withdraw from County jurisdiction, and she feels the City of Downey should study this. Councilman Greene said he would like to have more information before making a decision. Councilman Jennings said the City of Downey has had a good rapport with the County over the years, and he would have to give this careful consideration before becoming involved in an attempt to do away with the present form of. government. • ��✓H bC'fq Caps; (f'PY(/'�G� 4he BOSS Mayor Scotto commented that approximately 20 South Bay cities ar-e withdrawing from the County jurisdiction, and a San Gabriel Valley group of cities have been meeting on this. She feels an appropriate study should be made. The correspondence was set aside. Private Contract #100, West side Bellflower Boulevard north of Imper wney Private Contract #101, Deming Street south of Gardendale Street Private Contract #103. Easement south of Florence Avenue west of Cha Councilman Jennings said normally if a property owner is required to build a sewer down a public street he pays for it and is entitled to rebates from each property that subsequently connects to the sewer. He asked if any rebates are involved in this. Council Minutes 2/8/77 -1- - OC'S Mr. Spindel replied if there is a rebate, it would come back for the Council to set the amount. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to accept dedication of the improvements completed under Downey Pri- vate Contract Nos. 100, 101, and 103. ORDINANCE NO. 521 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE ZONING MAP ADOPTED BY SECTION 9107 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE (PLANNING RESOLUTION NO. 153, ZONE CHANGE CASE NO. 125). The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, sec- onded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Ordinance No. 521. RESOLUTION NO. 3372 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA, CONSENTING TO ESTABLISHMENT OF A PORTION OF FOSTER ROAD WITHIN SAID CITY AS A PART OF THE SYSTEM OF HIGHWAYS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES. The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, sec- onded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3372. RESOLUTION NO. 3373 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING PROGRAM SUPPLEMENT NO. 2 OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY/STATE AGREEMENT NO. 43 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE FOSTER ROAD BIKE BRIDGE OVER THE RIO SAN GABRIEL CHANNEL. The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, sec- onded by Councilman Greene, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3373. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the City/County Project Agreement for Foster Road Bicycle Bridge, Rio San Gabriel Channel, and authorize the Mayor to sign. RESOLUTION NO. 3374 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA TO ACCEPT ON BEHALF OF SAID DISTRICT A TRANSFER AND CONVEYANCE OF STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENTS AND DRAINAGE SYSTEM KNOWN AS (CASH CONTRACT PROJECT NO. SS 310) MISCELLANEOUS TRANSFER DRAIN NO. 641, IN THE CITY OF DOWNEY, FOR FUTURE OPERATION, MAINTENANCE, REPAIR, AND IMPROVEMENT AND AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER AND CONVEYANCE THEREOF. The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, sec- onded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3374. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY PROHIBITING PARKING FOR STREET CLEANING PURPOSES ALONG THE EAST SIDE OF DOWNEY AVENUE BETWEEN SIXTH STREET AND SEVENTH STREET ON THURSDAY FROM 7 TO 10 A.M. (TOW AWAY ZONE) Council Minutes 2/8/77 -2- The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings to waive further reading. Mr. Spindel advised the Traffic Committee felt this required a further study and has requested the resolution continue under submission. Councilman Jennings stated his objection to the Community Development Department's memo, particularly line seven. He asked whether the property owners on the west side of the street have been contacted and are objecting to the proposed parking restriction. Mr. Spindel replied yes. The Resolution was continued under submission. RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AUTHORIZING THE USE OF THE LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND UNDER THE OFFICE OF THE CALIFORNIA STATE TREASURER AS AN INVESTMENT MEDIA ALTERNATIVE. The Resolution was read by title only. Mr. Sorensen advised the word "deposit" should be changed to "invest"; in Section 3 the names of the individuals should be stricken, leaving the names of the office, Director. of Finance and Manager of Revenue. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings and Councilman Jackman to adopt the Resolution as amended. Councilman Jennings raised questions regarding the lot purchase penalties. Mr. Patton explained the City has never paid any lot purchase penalties because it invests in minimum cash deposits. Councilman Jennings said he would like to take the Resolution under submission until he has seen a breakdown of how much the City will make and how much goodwill it will lose if it withdraws its funds from the Local banks and deposits it in Sacramento. Mr. Patton said the investment pool of the State has been averaging an interest rate of about 5.9 percent during the last three months, and the City has been averag- ing 5 percent. He stated this type of investment has been available to the City for some time, staff has been watching the rate of return the State investment pool has been making, and it is felt there needs to be an alternative method of investment. Mr. Patton pointed out the investments would be on an investment -to -investment decision, and it has been the City's policy to secure the highest investment,available. Councilman Jennings indicated he would not be in favor of withdrawing money from local banks to send to Sacramento. Mayor Scotto said as long as it would be of benefit to the City taxpayers she would be in favor. During discussion Mr. Patton explained investment decisions are made as money matures. The motion and second to adopt were withdrawn. The Resolution was then taken under submission. RESOLUTION NO. 3375 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY REQUESTING AN ESTIMATE OF THE ASSESSED VALUATION OF PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY OF DOWNEY FOR THE SUCCEEDING FISCAL YEAR. The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3375. Councilman Miller indicated he would like to see a copy of the assessed valuation estimates when they are received May 15th AYES: 5 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman, Scotto Council Minutes 2/8/77 -3- RESOLUTION NO. 3376 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AUTHORIZING THE CERRITOS JUVENILE DIVERSION PROJECT TO ENTER INTO SERVICE CONTRACTS. The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, sec- onded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3376. Sidewalk Matching Funds Mayor Scotto said the report on sidewalk policy indicates it does cost the City to have the two-year agreement executed, and she would be in favor of having that removed. It was moved by Councilman Jennings and seconded by Councilman Jackman to approve Sidewalk Matching Funds at the following locations: Estimated M.F. No. Address City Cost 476 12919 Downey Avenue $800 Mr. Spindel explained the two-year agreement places a lien on the property for two years, and both the Planning Commission and Traffic Committee recommend the agreement be eliminated. It was moved by Mayor Scotto and seconded by Councilman Greene that the motion be amended to remove the two-year agreement. Councilman Jennings spoke in favor of the agreement by saying it permits anyone living in a R-2 zone but using the property for R-1 purposes to obtain sidewalk match- ing funds; but, if the property is changed to R-2, the money is to be refunded back to the City. Roll call vote on amended motion: AYES: 2 Council Members: Greene, Scotto NOES: 3 Council Members: Jennings, Miller, Jackman Amended motion failed. Roll call vote on original motion to approve Sidewalk Matching Funds: AYES: 5 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman, Scotto ect No. 695, West side_Birchbark Avenue, Teleeraoh Road Mr. Martin Burley, 8621 Birchbark Avenue, said after discussing this matter with the City Engineer he believes it is mutually agreed for everyone's benefit to have curbside sidewalks installed at this location, but he noted the parking on the street is principally of benefit to the Rio Hondo Hospital. He explained his building was constructed prior to the City's incorporation, and inasmuch as there are no setbacks, he would not want the sidewalk next to his building; also, there are obstructions in the way of a sprinkler system, shrubbery, and water lines which would not be encoun- tered if a curbside sidewalk was installed. Mr. Burley requested a standard sidewalk of four feet inasmuch as the sidewalk to the north is a curbside sidewalk four feet wide; there is also a "no parking" sign which could be moved five -to -ten feet and avoid the sidewalk. He said he should not be required to install a larger sidewalk than he will be connecting to on the north and south of his property. Mr. Burley stated it is his understanding the City will not pay half the cost for the fifth foot if the sidewalk is approved for that width. Mr. Spindel explained the curbside sidewalks to the north were put in to miss two trees and other obstructions, and staff is recommending the sidewalk at this location be put in adjacent to the curb to also miss two large trees. He pointed out that curb- side sidewalks are installed very seldom in the City and are generally five -to -six feet wide because it is felt when installed adjacent to the curb there should be more clear- ance for automobiles; also, staff is asking for a five-foot rather than four -foot sidewalk to proavde better clearance for the trees and parked vehicles. The City, he V. said, should tie cost for total sidewalk installation, and if the sidewalks are installed voluntarily without Chapter 27 proceedings, the property owner would be eligible for matching funds. Council Minutes 2/8/77 -4- Discussion followed. Mr. Spindel responded to questions concerning sidewalk and tree removal policies. Mayor Scotto suggested this matter be held until certain items have been resolved. Councilmen Greene, Miller, and Jackman concurred with the four foot width. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by the following vote that if an agreement is entered into by Mr. Burley and staff, that the curbside sidewalks be four feet wide, with the exception of the southerly end of the property where it will curve and join the other four foot sidewalk, and the sign now located in the area where sidewalks are to be installed be moved to the south. Mayor Scotto indicated she would be in favor of the four foot sidewalk, however, she would prefer not to makea decision on this matter until after staff has brought back another report. AYES: 4 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman NOES: 1 Council Member: Scotto It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed b}t•unanimous vote to approve initiation of Chapter 27 proceedings for completion of sidewalks on Downey Improvement Project #696, West side Bellflower Boulevard between Buckles Street and Stewart and Gray Road, and approve sidewalk matching funds in the amount of $613. It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by the following vote to approve proposed Modifications to Rio Hondo Golf Professional (Parlove, Inc.) Contract that will provide for Parlove to meet reasonable obligations for the 1975-76 and 1976-77 fiscal years and to rebid the contract commencing July 1,1977. Mr. Thompson explained when the Golf Course Driving Range operation was first put out to bid the City informed the bidders what it expected to receive in potential revenue. He said it was anticipated the receipts at the Golf Course would continue to climb, and as a result of that, the City increased the basic rental for the minimum payment from $18,000 in the first year to $21,000 the second year to $24,000, and then it jumps to $31,000. Mr. Thompson stated the actual receipts, by the City's own finance figures, have not increased enough to make the minimum, and the golf pro has indicated he would have to cancel the contract. Negotiations have been under way to work out whatever reasonable arrangements can be made, and it is felt that under the contract the golf pro is obligated to pay for the last fiscal year the sum of $24,000. Mr. Thompson commented that through a misunderstanding, the City has been paying the electrical bills on the driving range, but in reviewing the contract it has been discovered the golf pro is to pay. During discussion, he further explained the golf pro has indicated he will make good on everything up-to-date. He said the records disclose the City is receiving the maximum it can expect to make out of the pro shop at this time, and staff is recommending an increase in the percentage on the pro shop from five to six percent. AYES: 5 !Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman, Scotto It was moved by Councilman Jennings and seconded by Councilman Greene to approve an Agreement for reduced green fees for Use of Rio Hondo Golf Course by Cerritos College Golf Team. (See later motion.) Responding to questions, Mr. Neavill outlined the proposed charges for 18 and 9 holes of golf, which he said are comparable to other golf courses. Councilman Jennings questioned whether the 12:00 o'clock tee off time would interfere with a busy schedule at the golf course on Wednesday and Fridays. Mr. Neavill advised the 12:00 o'clock time is the earliest the students would be teeing off, but most of the play would commence later in the afternoon, and they under- stand they will take a lower priority. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the Agreement for reduced green fees at the Rio Hondo Golf Course by the Cerritos College Golf Team, with the exception of the 12:00 o'clock starting time. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by the following vote to deny the request made by the Bicentennial Commission of a recognition plaque at the Downey Theatre lobby for the Bicentennial Mural. Mr. Henry Oberndorf, 9731 East Imperial Highway, requested clarification of the Coun- cil's motion. He was informed the Council is approving denial of the recognition plaque. Council Minutes 2/8/77 -5- AYES: 5 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman, Scotto It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the Appointment of Mrs. Frieda McKillivary as a member of the Rose Float Committee for District Three. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by the following vote to approve Water Turn -Off Procedure for Delinquent Accounts. Discussion followed. AYES: 5 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Jackman, Scotto Promotion of Van Pooling in Downey Area Mayor Scotto commented on the request of Mr. Dotson of the Federal Energy Office for the City of Downey to co-sponsor a meeting to promote van pooling. She said Mr. Dotson will be contacting Commuter Computer to request that they also co-sponsor, and she is suggesting use of the Green Room for the meeting. Mr. Thompson stated capacity of the Green Room is 75. Responding to questions, Mayor Scotto explained the City's co -sponsoring would only be the lending of its name in supporting the program and the meeting. It was moved by Mayor Scotto, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by unani- mous vote to co-sponsor the April 12th meeting being conducted by the Federal Ergery Office to take place in the Green Room. It was moved by Councilman Jennings, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the Appointments of Craig Harper, Mary Ellen Harper, and Bill Alexander to the Rose Float Association for District One. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT Mr. Thompson reported the following names are being submitted for Council considera- tion to serve on the Tax Impact Study Committee: Robert Brazelton, Tax Attorney Robert Anderson, Mortgage Investment Bob Kotob, Tax Attorney Chet Petzel, Bank Management Charles Hutchinson, Tax Accopntant Larry Hoag, Real Estate Management Dr. Caroline De Olden, Supervisor Research and Evaluation for Downey Unified School District Mrs. Lilian Mulley Mrs. Bea Bickers Mr. Thompson stated all of the people have indicated their willingness to serve as a review committee and in addition, staff has met with Dr. Hom of the Tax Institute, U.S.C., and attempted to develop a lesser fee structure for minimal guidance on the study. Mr. Thompson requested Council approval of up to $1500 out of the Special Services Account, which would permit staff to receive professional guidance from the Tax Institute. Also, he said, he hopes to add a representative from the Jaycees and senior citizens group to serve on the committee. Councilman Greene said he hoped Mr. Joel Lubin would be included on the committee: Mayor Scotto suggested the majority of the committee should consist of Downey residents.. Councilman Jackman did not object to approving the committee but preferred to take the rest of the matter under submission until he has had an opportunity to study it further. Councilman Miller said the project needs expertise to estabfish the parameters and specifications and later to analyze the results. He favored moving ahead with the study. During discussion, Councilman Miller indicated his desire to be involved with the study and suggested another Council Member be involved in the meetings. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jennings, and passed by the following vote to approve the hiring of Dr. Hom of the Institute for Tax Administra- tion and authorized the transfer of not to exceed $1500 without Council approval from the Special Services Account. AYES: 4 Council Members: Greene, Jennings, Miller, Scotto NOES: 1 Council Member: Jackman Mayor Scotto commented on receipt of a memorandum from Mike Huggins of the Recre,. ation and Community Services Commission advising the Jaycees are willing to conduct surveys and might assist in the Tax Impact Study. Council Minutes 2/8/77 -6- ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Councilman Jennings asked staff to provide the Council with a recommendation on the cost to landscape the entrance to City Hall and the Downey Theatre and the City Hall patio. The Council concurred with the request. Councilman Greene mentioned he knows someone who does landscaping, and it might not cost the City. Speaking to the Rives Avenue School, Councilman Jennings stated he and Councilman Miller made a tour of the facility, and he would suggest the other Council Members arrange a tour before the next Council meeting, at which time he will be making recom- mendations regarding rehabilitation. Councilman Jennings requested the Director of Parks and Recreation to place on the Agenda for the next Council meeting the Recreation and Community Services Commission's proposed rules and regulations for the serving of champagne punch in the Green Room of the Downey Theatre. Mayor Scotto introduced Mrs. Lillian Mully, member of the Water Board and Tax Impact Study Committee. Councilman Greene introduced Mr. Robert Wartenbe, an amateur radio operator. Councilman Greene inquired if the Downey Rose Float Association contributes toward the Downey Rose Float. Mr. Spindel replied the Association purchases the material and flowers and the City provides the labor. Councilman Miller asked if one of the Council Members would serve with him on the Tax Impact Study Committee. Councilman indicated he would serve. Councilman Miller then inquired regarding the result of citizen reports of illegal aliens in the City. Chief Morgan advised that if a person feels there are any illegal aliens in the City the best procedure is to notify the Immigration Department because the Police Depart- ment does not have the authority to raid residences and arrest the aliens --it can only detain them. He said once the aliens are deported back to Mexico many times within three days they have returned. Speaking to revision of the City Council Agenda, Councilman Miller requested this matter be placed on the Agenda for the next meeting. Councilman Jackman inquired regarding the status of removal of homes in the 105 Freeway corridor. Mr. Spindel said the plaintiff has given approval for removalof homes, and the num- ber of homes to be removed has been reduced from 100-t6 20. He said he will advise as soon as he has further information. Mr. Sorensen explained approximately two years ago he made a motion and presented evidence which the court took under submission, and if it is the Council's desire to actively pursue the proceedings he can initiate further proceedings to see if anything can be done. Councilman Jackman favored pursuing the matter to have the homes removed. Mr. Spindel indicated the maximum number of homes that would be removed at the present time is 100, and there are 480 homes boarded up at the present time. Councilman Jennings asked the City Attorney to bring back an estimate of his costs to pursue this matter. Mr. Sorensen indicated it would be difficult to estimate the time involved, but he will bring back a cost range. Mayor Scotto commented she has been contacted concerning people injured in the slot gutters. She asked if they are necessary and practical. Mr. Spindel replied the slot gutters have been put in by the City and the County and are necessary and practical because of certain drainage or grade conditions --they Council Minutes 2/8/77 -7- eliminate having to install serious dips across intersections and confine the water so that it does not spread out all over the street. He stated slot gutters are removed when storm drains are installed. Mayor Scotto commented on changing the Council Meeting Agendas allowing members of the audience to address the Council early in the meeting, or prior to the Consent Calendar as suggested by the City Clerk. She also spoke regarding limiting speakers to three minutes per person or ten minutes per subject, and anyone wishing to speak longer could wait until the end of the meeting. Councilman Jennings indicated that procedure would be extending the length of the meeting and allowing people to speak twice. Councilman Jackman suggested rules be established determining whether agenda or non -agenda items will be discussed early in the meeting. Discussion was held regarding allowing comments on agenda items at the time those subjects are considered. Use of sign -in cards was also discussed. Mr. Sorensen noted the Council may adopt a resolution at any meeting governing that particular meeting. The City Manager will bring back a revised Agenda format for Council consideration. At 10:09 p.m., Mayor Scotto adjourned the meeting to 5:30 p.m., February 15, 1977, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, for study session on the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance concerning Signs. Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Council Minutes 2/8/77 -8- Haz N. Scotto, Mayor CORRECTION TO MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY FEBRUARY 8, 1977 On Page 4, the last sentence now reads: "The City, he said, should bear the cost for total sidewalk installation, and if the sidewalks are installed voluntarily without Chapter 27 proceedings, the property owner would be eligible for matching funds." The sentence should be corrected to read: "The City, he said, should share the cost for total sidewalk installation, and if the sidewalks are installed voluntarily without Chapter 27 proceedings, the property owner would be eligible for matching funds." Robert L. Shand City Clerk -Treasurer Correction, Council Minutes 2/8/77