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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-05-24-77-Regular Meeting`V 4 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY MAY 24, 1977 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m., May 24, 1977, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Richard M. Jennings presiding. PRESENT: Council Members; Kenneth J. Miller William L. Greene, Mayor Pro Tem Theodore H. Jackman Hazel N. Scotto Richard M. Jennings, Mayor ALSO PRESENT: Charles W. Thompson, City Manager Royal M. Sorensen, City Attorney Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development John T. Neavill, Director of Parks and Recreation Loren D. Morgan, Police Chief William A. Coggin, City Planner Ray T. Lake, Building Official Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer Robert Coates, Superintendent, Water Division Martin Wynne, Acting Director of Finance G. D. Davis, Battalion Chief, Fire Department John H. Saunders, Assistant to the City Manager William A. Ralph, Civil Engineer Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Judy McDonnell. Executive Secretary The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Job- Baker, Free Methodist Church of Downey, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Miller, Mayor Jennings commented on a Proclamation designating May 22 through 28 1977 as National Public Works Week. Mr. Spindel explained the National Public Works Week is celebrated each year during this time to bring attention to those men and women who are involved in the planning and construction of water, sewer, highway, and otI.er types of facilities which require the support of an informed citizenry. Also, he said, each year at this time the City honors one employee from Public Works and Engineering who is selected as Employee of the Year. Mr. John Rodriguez was selected as Employee of the Year, and because he was not able to be present, the award to Mr. Rodriguez was postponed to the next Council Meeting. Mavor Jennings declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on City of Downey Budget for Fiscal Year 1977-78. 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 Jackman, and so ordered to receive and file the Affidavit. Mr. Thompson reported the proposed General Fund Budget as recommended is a total of $13,572,770, which is the operating budget containing most of the City°s general oper- ations, but does not include Enterprise Funds such as Water Fund, Water Operation, the Golf Course, or Street Lights. He said the areas over which the City has very little control includes $700,000 contingency for salaries and benefits; $85,000 mandated retire- ment costs; $45,000 unemployment insurance; $47,400 in emergency and liability insurance; $25,000 for the 1978 Municipal Election; and $30,000 equipment rental increases. This budget, Mr. Thompson stated, represents approximately six percent over the 1976-77 budget. He displayed charts on the General Fund - Fund Analysis for 1977-78; the Operating Resource Dollar; Analysis of Per Capita City Revenues; Analysis of Per Capita City Expendi- tures; Operating Expenditure Dollar; a Breakdown of Property Tax Dollar for 1976-77; and Rate of Increase in Assessed Valuation. Mr. Thompson pointed out the budget contains a recommendation for an eight cent (8p) tax increase, which is necessary in order to balance the budget with current programs. He noted the budget is presented for Council consideration with the belief it does contain the lowest dollar possible to continue municipal services in an effective manner on the level now constituted. Mr. Thompson said the general increases being recommended are there by virtue of decisions made with respect to the General Fund --increases due to mov- ing ahead with the Wilderness Park and Independence Park, and the Enterprise Budget of the Water Fund --increases as a result of proposed acquisition of private water companies anticipated to be concluded in August of this year. Council Minutes 5/24/77 -1- s750 Mayor Jennings indicated the hearing will be held open to the meeting of June 14th. He asked the Council if it would prefer to have the question and answer period between the Council and City Manager or wait until next meeting and hear from the public at this time. Councilman Miller stated he would be willing to hear public input. Councilwoman Scotto said she has no objection. Mayor Jennings then inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak to the Budget for Fiscal Year 1977-78, and there was no response. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Greene, and so ordered to continue the hearing on the Budget for Fiscal Year 1977-78 to 7:30 p.m., June 14, 1977, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall. Removal of Items from Consent Calendar Agenda Items VIII-B-2, Correspondence from Downey Chamber of Commerce, and VIII-B-3, Correspondence from Los Angeles County Transportation Commission, were removed from the Consent Calendar. City Clerk Shand requested that page 4 of the Minutes, Adjourned Regular Meeting of March 7, 1977, be corrected: Third to last paragraph, to read "March 14th" instead of "March 8th." It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the Minutes of the Adjourned Regular Meeting of March 7, 1977, as corrected. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the Remainder of the Consent Calendar: Minutes, Regular Meeting of May 10, 1977. Correspondence from Public Utilities Commission regarding Application No. 57199 of Southern California Edison Company for an Increase in EnerRv Cost Adiustment BiLling Factor. Denial of Legal Claims: Ref. No. 321, Samuel John Dunkin; Ref. No. 322, Robert Gregory Williams. - General Warrants: #152725 - 153003; #203518 - 203553: $699,493.11. AYES: 5 Miller, Greene, Jackman, Scotto, Jennings Correspondence from Downey Chamber of Commerce regarding Budget Request for 1977-78. Councilwoman Scotto commented on a discussion with a board member regarding accredi- tation of the Chamber, and she asked that the Chamber be invited to respond to this at the next Council study session. Mr. Thompson asked if any member of the City Council is a member of the Chamber of Commerce. Councilman Jackman replied he is a member. Mr. Sorensen then advised it would be essential for Councilman Jackman to disqualify himself from participating in any discussion relating to the Chamber contract or voting upon an appropriation of contract. He noted there is a specific provision in the Govern- ment Code regarding this. Councilman Jackman said he will disqualify himself. It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered that the Downey Chamber of Commerce budget request be placed on the agenda for the next budget study. Correspondence from Los Angeles County Transportation Commission requesting Financial Support of Cities within the County to continue SCRTD Services. Councilwoman Scotto said she would not be in favor of the County's request. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Greene, and so ordered to receive and file the correspondence. Oral Communications (items not on Agenda - Five minute limit per person). Council Minutes 5/24/77 -2- �7t9� Mayor Jennings inquired if there was anyone present who wished to address the City Council regarding an item not on the Agenda. There was no response. ORDINANCE NO. 525 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING SECTIONS 8100, 8100.1 AND 8100.2 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH SAID SECTIONS RELATE TO CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS IN PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Ordinance No. 525. ORDINANCE NO. 526 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING SECTION 6593 AND 6597 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH SAID SECTIONS RELATE TO SWAP MEETS The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by the following vote to adopt Ordinance No. 526. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Jennings NOES: 1 Council Member: Greene Downey Rose Float Association Request for Funds to pay Flower Bill Mr. Joe Condran, President of the Downey Rose Float Association, 9070 Florence Avenue, said the reason for the request is that one of the flowers on Downey's float had to be sub- stituted for another, the price of which was considerably more, and one of the fund rais- ing projects did not produce the moneys expected. Responding to questions, he stated the Association has $587.54 in a checking account and $594.07 in a savings account, and the scholarship fund was transferred to the general account to help defray the flower bill. Councilman Jackman suggested giving the Association next year's budget allocation now. Mr. Condran explained Downey is one of five cities that has a self decorated float with the Association raising most of the money, and it is hoped that position can be continued. Councilman Jackman pointed out the Public Works Department spends labor to build the float which amounts to approximately $10,000 a year. It was noted the $500 entry fee has been mailed for the 1978 Tournament of Roses Parade. Councilwoman Scotto suggested giving the Association the remainder of this year's budgeted amount, with the Association using the money from its saving and checking accounts. However, there would still be a balance of $440 owed on the flower bill. She further suggested an accounting format for both the Sister City and Rose Float Associ- ation; establishing a staff member as the person to be in contact with; and that both organizations provide the City with quarterly reports. Mayor Jennings stated the problem is to consider the basic culture for the City and whether the Rose Float Parade and activities involved will be part of that culture. He made the suggestion of giving the Association $2400 less the amount in its checking account and then holding half the amount back from the next two budgets. Councilman Greene concurred that the basic question is whether the City wants a Rose Float or not, Discussion followed. Mrs. Jean Albrecht, First Vice President of the Downey Rose Float Association stated her hopes for a larger participation in the next Miss Downey Pageant. Responding to questions, Mr. Thompson explained this current year the Association used approximately $780 of its $1500 budget amount, $500 of which was the entry fee for the Tournament of Roses Parade. Council Minutes 5/24/77 -3- It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to pay the $2400 for this year to the Downey Rose Float Association and then consider a minimum of $500 in the budget to cover the anticipated entry fee to be paid in the coming fiscal year. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote that the $2400 for the Rose Float Association be taken from General Fund Balance. RESOLUTION N0, 3405 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING DISTRIBUTION PROCESS FOR SAFER OFF -SYSTEMS ROADS ANNUAL APPORTIONMENT The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3405. RESOLUTION NO. 3406 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY TO MAKE USE OF FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE THROUGH .SECTION 701 OF THE 1954 HOUSING ACT The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, sec- onded by Councilman Miller, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3406. Discussion was held regarding the purpose of the study. Mr. Goggin advised the study will be made and presented to the Council for decision He pointed out the study will be helpful in deciding whether to revise the General Plan. Further discussion followed. AYES: 5 Council Members: Miller, Greene, Jackman, Scotto, Jennings RESOLUTION NO. 3407 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY TO MAKE USE OF SECTION 701 OF THE 1954 HOUSING ACT FUNDS The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Greene, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3407. During discussion, it was noted the $5,000 matching funds will be paid out of the Housing and Community Development Funds. AYES: 5 Council Members: Miller, Greene, Jackman, Scotto, Jennings Following a summation of bids, it was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Coun- cilman Miller, and passed by unanimous vote to award Select System Project No. 320, Side- Street,(Account No. 40-13917 or No. 26-16182), in the amount of the unit prices bid, to T. J. Crosby Company of Santa Ana, the lowest and best bidder. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to approve extra work in the amount of $2,194.60 on S.S. Project No. 309, Gardendale Street, (Account No. 26-16168); accept the improvements completed in conjunction with the subject project; and accept responsibility for maintenance thereof. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto to approve plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids on Cash Contract No. 405, Bicycle Access Paths (Account No. 40-13917 and No. 40-13929j. Councilman Jackman asked why this has been placed on the Agenda when at the last Council meeting it was voted down unanimously. Council Minutes 5/24/77 -4- Mr. Spindel replied that at the last meeting Councilman Jackman requested statis- tics on usage of bicycles at the proposed location. Councilwoman Scotto said her "no" vote was predicated on the fact that further infor- mation was requested, and she asked that further consideration be given to the bikeway access path. Mayor Jennings seconded the motion. Mr. William Tice, 9815 Horley Avenue, said he has been participating on the Downey Bicycle Safety Committee on the utilization of bicycles and feels the utilization report will justify reconsideration of this matter. Mr. Spindel reported that on Sunday, May 15th, 35 cyclists used the north gate and 20 used the south gate; on Sunday, May 22nd, 25 cyclists used the north gate and 23 used the south gate. BYES: 1 Council Member: Scotto NOES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Greene, Jackman, Jennings Failed. A discussion was held regarding consideration of the $300 for Wheelchair Ramps at Rio San Gabriel Park, which were included as part of the bicycle access paths. Mr. Spindel explained the ramps could probably be constructed with City forces if that is the Council's desire, and other projects will have to be considered for the bicycle funds. Also, he said, since the ramps are in the amount of $300, it can be done by informal bid or by staff. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Mayor Jennings, and passed by unanimous vote to approve construction of wheelchair ramps at Rio San Gabriel Park. Councilman Miller inquired regarding the configuration of the bicycle path at Firestone Boulevard and other streets. Mr. Ralph explained that at Firestone Boulevard, the path goes to the bottom of the channel and then back up on the other side of Firestone. He said at each overpass the path descends underneath the roadway and many times goes all the way to the bottom of the channel. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote directing the Department of Community Development to process Sidewalk Matching Fund Applications not to exceed $1,078, which is the difference between the $10,000 appropriation and the $8,922 approved during 1976-77. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by the following vote to approve the 2156 Report reflecting the City's five-year street maintenance needs for the period 1982-87. Councilwoman Scotto asked about the possibility of the Council receiving annually a map of the streets to be repaired. Mr. Spindel replied there is a list showing what is proposed in this budget for the different types of repair which can be amended and modified at any time. He pointed out that alleys are in the Capital Improvement Budget,which has not been presented yet. Councilman Miller asked for a list of the proposed improvements prior to the next Budget study session. AYES: 5 Council Members: Miller, Greene, Jackman, Scotto, Jennings It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by unanimous vote to approve Amendment No. 2 to Water System Acquisition Agreement and authorize the Mayor to execute. Helpline Youth Counseling Fund Request Responding to questions, Chief Morgan explained the Cerritos Corridor Juvenile Diverson Project refers people for counseling and other therapy to Helpline Youth Coun- seling and to Mr. Mike Testi. He pointed out that Helpline handled approximately 143 Downey citizens last year, and in his opinion, Helpline performs a very worthwhile and successful function. Dr. Patrick D. O'Connor, representing Helpline YouJh Counseling, 17117 Clark Avenue, Bellflower, commented that five other cities are considering Helpline's request for funds. He said it would be a prorated amount and one-third of the amount actually needed Council Minutes 5/24/77 -5- to serve the 143 clients --the other two-thirds Helpline proposes to raise. Dr. O'Connor responded to questions regarding the increase in juvenile "runaways" and the anticipated funds from the County. He agreed to receive funds from the City on a quarterly basis and said Helpline needs to know the City's decision by September 1st. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto to approve the request for funds of the Help - line Youth Counseling ($8716) to be included in 1977-78 Budget. Mr. Thompson noted it will be the Council's decision where the money will be placed in the Budget. The motion was seconded by Councilman Jackman and passed by unanimous vote. Golf Course Professional Services at Rio Hondo Golf Course Councilman Greene asked that the City provide the bidders with information on the Golf Course operation over the past few years so that they will have something to base their bids on. Mr. Neavill responded that information will accompany the bid documents, and the City Attorney has advised the information should not become part of the bid package but should be supplemental. Mayor Jennings commented there should also be a person designated to specifically handle the starter duties and someone to specifically handle the golf carts. It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by unanimous vote to authorize staff to advertise for bids for golf course professional service at Rio Hondo Golf Course. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto and seconded by Councilman Greene to authorize staff to purchase and install playground equipment at Wilderness Park as part of the Phase II development. Councilman Miller asked if this is included in the current budget. Mr. Thompson replied yes, the moneys were originally appropriated two years ago out of Cigarette Tax funds, and the money was reappropriated in this year's budget in order to obtain some additional money from Revenue Sharing. Mr. Neavill stated the amount is included in the budget under Wilderness Park Development Fund No. 17110. Councilman Miller questioned the method of reporting this appropriation in the current budget. Following discussion, Councilman Greene withdrew his second to the motion. Taken under submission for further report. It was noted the Downey Community Hospital Budget for 1977-78 was taken under con- sideration during the study session. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Greene, and passed by unanimous vote to approve the annual South Gate Jail Agreement and authorize the Mayor to sign. Councilman Miller inquired regarding the status of the meeting with Governor Brown on the 105 Freeway Corridor. Mr. Thompson commented on a conversation with Assemblyman Young, who has indicated a meeting with Governor Brown would be forthcoming and that there would be some delay in the Governor's decision because of his appointment of Mr. Silverman. He stated it is his understanding Mr. Silverman has toured the Freeway area. For the record, Councilman Miller said he does not expect Assemblyman Young to carry the ball all alone", and he will do what he can to help. Councilman Jackman favored holding a meeting between the City Council and Mayors of all the corridor cities for making a decision prior to Governor Brown's visit. Mayor Jennings suggested waiting until Thursday morning (May 26th) for speaking to Assemblyman Young, and then contacting the corridor cities. Councilman Greene asked for a report on Water Conservation and whether a leaking fire plug has been turned off. Council Minutes 5/24/77 -6- A conversation took place regarding the location of the leaking fire plug. It was noted an article appeared in the Southeast News. Councilman Greene called for a concerted effort on water conservation. Further discussion ensued. Councilman Jackman requested follow-up information on the Results of Legal Claims filed against the City. Mr. Thompson replied that several claims go on for many months and reports on any settlements will be submitted to the Council. In response to Councilman Jackman°s inquiry regarding Life Insurance for the City Council, Mr. Thompson indicated this matter is being expedited, Councilwoman Scotto commented the City volunteers have recommended Suggestion Boxes: One to be located in the City Clerk's office; one in the City Manager's office; one in the entrance hall; and maybe one in the office of Parks and Recreation. She said a volunteer has cited the lack of equipment for performing volunteer work (such as type- writers). Councilwoman Scotto mentioned a volunteer called the Police Department to report a person removing items from the DART receptacles and that the police employee was unaware of the DART Program, Chief Morgan explained the employee was new in the department and resides out of town. Councilwoman Scotto reported on receipt of a letter from an anonymous woman regard- ing people going through the DART containers. Mr. Thompson pointed out that the Police have been alerted to scavengers going through the containers. Councilwoman Scotto requested instituting a procedure of double water bills to a household prior to shutting off the water, particularly people who have resided in the City a long time. Mr. Thompson said double bills are sent out, and it would be difficult to know how long a person has lived in the City, although perhaps home ownership can be ascertained. Councilman Miller suggested personal contact with the resident or neighbor when tagging a home before turning the water off, Mayor Jennings reminded the Council that Districts One, Three and Four have vacancies on the Building Appeals Board. Both Councilman Jackman and Councilwoman Scotto indicated they have selected citi- zens for appointment. At 9:57 p.m. Mayor Jennings declared a recess and excused staff from the meeting. The meeting resumed at 10:02 p.m. with all Council Members present. Mr. Sorensen commented that as the designated City Attorney, the retainer fee paid to his office includes Planning Commission meetings. The only extra would be litigation. Mayor Jennings asked if Mr. Sorensen profits through the Public Employees Retire- ment System (PERS) for attendance by another attorney from his office to the Planning Commission meetings. Mr. Sorensen explained the retainer fee is counted as salary, and that would go toward his PERS even though he might assign someone else from his office to attend the Planning, Commission meeting. He said there are two purposes for requesting the increased retainer: One would be to facilitate the billing so that the City would know precisely what services are covered, as well as the billing for separate services; the second --- would be to assist in his PERS. Mayor Jennings indicated the Council will review and make a decision prior to July 1st. Mrs. Shirley Niemand, 9340 Gallatin Road, addressed the City Council regarding the Sister City Program. She said it is proposed to send the Downey Vikettes to Guadalajara for a four -day visit, and it is hoped they can give several performances while they are there. Also, Mrs. Niemand stated, September or October are suggested in lieu of the usual July -August exchange. She requested the balance of the $1500 budgeted for,Sister City this year for the purpose of sending the Vikettes to Guadalajara. Councilman Greene favored the proposal made by Mrs. Niemand but does not concur with the annual visit from Guadalajara each year at Christmas time which, he said, is a waste- ful expenditure of money. Council Minutes 5/24/77 -7- Mrs. Niemand stated it is felt the program needs to be rejuvenated, and because of the negative attitude regarding the exchange program, the Sister City Committee feels it should be abolished at Least for this year. Also, it is felt the change should be at a time when there is some activity. During discussion, Mrs. Niemand indicated it is felt the people who travel to Guadalajara under the'proposed program should pay their membership in the Sister City. It was moved by Councilman Greene and seconded by Councilman Jackman that the Sister City program be discontinued altogether. Councilwoman Scotto commented on the cultural value derived from the program. Mayor Jennings said Downey is made up of special interest groups; each of the groups contribute to heritage and culture of the City; and the Council should take a position of either supporting all of the groups or discontinuing them. He also commented on the cultural value of the Guadalajara visits. Mrs. Niemand favored either a new approach to the program or abolishing it. Discussion followed. Councilman Jackman feels the purpose of the program has changed and the cultural exchange between the cities is not accomplished. Roll call vote: AYES: 2 Council Members: Greene, Jackman NOES: 3 Council Members: Miller, Scotto, Jennings Mrs. Niemand requested notification of when the official visit will be. Mayor Jennings noted that a previous City Council established the policy that any Councilman and his wife may have $500 for making the official visit to Guadalajara. Mr. Thompson said it is his understanding the amount for any Guadalajara visit has to be included in the budget. At 10:40 p.m., Mayor Jennings adjourned the meeting to 5:30 p.m., May 31, 1977, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall for study session on the City of Downey Budget for Fiscal Year 1977-78. ��� Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Council Minutes 5/24/77 -8-