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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-01-10-78-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY JANUARY 10, 1978 T A B L E O F M IN UTE- AC -TI 0 N S SUBJECT: Presentation to William L. Sweet Removal of Items from Consent Calendar General Warrants: #157577 - 157814 #204190 - 204212 Minutes, Regular Meeting December 27, 1977 CC #417, Sideview Dr. S/o Metro St, to Cedartree Rd.; CleargroveDr., Guatemala Ave. to Horley Ave.: Specs & auth. to advertise (A/C #21-13941) CC #427, Pro Shop Annex., Rio Hondo Golf Course: Plans, specs & auth, to advertise (A/C #52-17520) CC #429, Misc. Repairs: Specs & auth. to advertise (A/C #10-5428) Oral Communications (Items not on Agenda) Ordinance #539, Amending Sec. 3130.1 DMC by rescinding Sub -sec. (c) re establishing one-way streets Resolution #3490, Commending Police Chief Morgan on his retirement Resolution #3491, Est. Three Water Service Zones for separate Water Rates & rescinding Res. #2380 Resolution opposing Housing Distr. Proposals of SCAG Resolution #3492, Est. Compensation f/Election Officers in Gen. Mun. Elections in City CC #414, Council Chamber Ceiling Remodeling: Accept alt. bid of Halas Corp. for lowering ceiling & inst. tile & approp. $1,000 from Gen. Rev. Sharing Funds to A/C #21-13938 DART Control Area Program: Auth. Dept. Public Works to proceed & approp. $720 from Gen. Fund Balance Clean Community System - Anti -Litter Prgm.: Establish pilot group to explore feasibility License Agmt, w/Marmac°s Rio Hondo Food Serv. Purch. of Equipmt, f/Comm. Physical Fitness Facility - Apollo Park Neighborhood Center SE Burglary Investigation Team - Apprv. prgm. to be funded thru June 30th w/intent to continue for following year, subj. to concurrence of other agencies Participation in Inter -City TV Info. Bureau Art Museum Renovation: Appropriate $4000 from A/C #40-661, Park Development Fund, for compl. of necessary exterior imprvmts. -ACTION: PAGE NO. 1 Approved 1 Approved as corrected 1 Approved 2 Approved 2 Approved 2 2 Adopted 2 Adopted 2 Adopted 3 Taken under submission 3 Adopted 4 Approved 4 Approved 4, 5 Approved 5 Approved as recommended 5 Approved 6 Failed; to be brought back next meeting 6, 7 Not approved 7 Approved as recommended 7 Page 1 of 2 COUNCIL MINUTES, JANUARY 10, 1978 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT: ACTION: PAGE NO. Amndmt. to Water Sys. Acquis. Agmt. w/Park Water Co. (from 1/13/78 to 1/31/78) & auth. Mayor to sign Approved 7 Amndmt. to Water Sys. Acquis. Agmt, w/So. Calif. Water Co. (from 1/30/78 to 1/31/78) & - auth. Mayor to sign Approved 7 Quarterly Report of Downey Chamber of Commerce for 10/1/77 thru 12/1/77 Received & filed 7 Withdrawal from So. Cal. Joint Powers Insurance Auth. & Proposal to Self -Insure Approved 7, 8 Appointments of Mrs. Leslie Bressler (Dist. 3), Mrs. Charlotte Lukes & Mrs. Betty Howell (both di.st. 4) to Disaster Plans Adv. Comm. Approved 8 CM Report re rating on Water Bond Sale 8 Staff report on Widening of Santa Ana Fwy. 8 Discussion re 105 Freeway Homes 8 Councilman Jackman requested rating on play Cabaret to be held in Downey Theatre 8 Discussion re Management Retreat 8, 9 Discussion re remodeling in City Hall 9 Mayor to submit Sister City Expense Report 9 Direct Planning staff to schedule hearings to rezone properties in conformance w/new Comp. zoning Ord., as soon as feasible Approved 9 Meeting adjourned to 4:00 p.m., January 16, 1978 for study session on Reinvestment in Downey Program & Birchdale Ave. Barricade 10 Meeting adjourned in memory of Mrs. Roy Q. Strain 10 Page 2 of 2 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY JANUARY 10 1978 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:31 p.m., January 10, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Pro Tem William L. Greene presiding. PRESENT: Council Members: Kenneth J. Miller Theodore H. Jackman Hazel N. Scotto William L. Greene Mayor Pro Tem ABSENT: Richard M. Jennings Mayor (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 Martin F. Wynne, Director of Finance John T. Neavill, Director of Parks & Recreation William F. Martin, Police Chief Edwin H. Wood, Fire Chief William A. Goggin, City Planner Ray T. Lake, Building Official Robert R. DeSio, Superintendent, Physical Services Division Thomas Tincher, Housing & Human Services Coordinator Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary The Invocation was delivered by Reverend William Root, The Church, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Miller. With the assistance of Mr. Spindel, Mayor Pro Tem Greene presented recognition for emergency action to William L. Sweet, Senior Engineering Aide in the Engineering Division, for his assistance to motorists involved in a collision with a propane truck on December 29, 1977. HEARINGS - None REMOVAL OF ITEMS FROM CONSENT CALENDAR The following Agenda items were removed from the Consent Calendar: VIII-A, Minutes of Regular Meeting of December 27, 1977. VIII-C-1, Cash Contract #417. VIII-C-2, Cash Contract #427. VIII-C-3, Cash Contract #429. CONSENT CALENDAR It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar: General Warrants: #157577 - 157814; #204190 - 204212: $489,441.26. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings Minutes, Regular City Council Meeting of December 27, 1977 At the request of Councilwoman Scotto, on Page 7, fourth paragraph under Resolution No. 3489, the second line was changed to read: "administrator of the funds and responsible for collecting all of the matching funds required." It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of December 27, 1977, as corrected. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings Council Minutes 1/10/78 -1- Cash Contracts #417, #427, and #429 Councilman Jackman inquired which budget these projects are charged to and where the funds are coming from. Mr. Spindel replied all of these projects were included in the Capital improve- ments Budget approved by the Council. Cash Contracts #417 and #427 are from Revenue Sharing Funds and Cash Contract #429 is from the Operating Budget of the Engineering Division. He said in the future the wording of the recommendations will be changed to show where the projects are budgeted. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by the following vote to approve the following Cash Contracts: act #417: Sideview Dri Drive to Cedartree Road Avenue: Specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids (Account #21-13941). Cash Contract #427, Pro Shop Annexation, Rio Hondo Golf Course: Plans and specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids (Account #52-17520). Cash Contract #429, Miscellaneous Repairs: Specifications and grant authority to advertise for bids (Account #10-4-5428). AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (Items not on Agenda) Mrs. Margaret Fillet, 9904 Birchdale Avenue, addressed the Council regarding her letter concerning the Council action on the hearing for revocation of permit of the Osaka Oriental Health Spa. She said Downey should have an ordinance prohibiting or providing more difficult provisions for opening massage parlor businesses and what a masseuse should wear. Mr. Thompson explained Downey's ordinance was updated recently, which is fairly strict, and since this case, staff has been considering the possibility of other requirements. However, he said, these requirements must be able to stand judicial scrutiny. ORDINANCES ORDINANCE NO. 539 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING SECTION 3130.1 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE BY RESCINDING SUB -SECTION (c) RELATING TO ESTABLISHING ONE-WAY STREETS The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, 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. 539. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings RESOLUTIONS RESOLUTION NO. 3490 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY COMMENDING POLICE CHIEF LOREN D. MORGAN ON HIS RETIREMENT The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Jackman, 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 Resolution No. 3490. AYES; 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings Council Minutes 1/10/78 -2- RESOLUTION NO. 3491 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ESTABLISHING THREE (3) WATER SERVICE ZONES FOR SEPARATE WATER RATES, AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2380 The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3491. Councilman Jackman asked if all the rates are the present rates each company is charging. Mr. Thompson replied yes. Councilwoman Scotto stated the rate does drop for the more water used, and she would like to see further consideration given to making all rates equal. Mr. Spindel explained this has been discussed several times and will probably be considered at budget time. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY OPPOSING THE HOUSING DISTRIBUTION PROPOSALS OF THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and so ordered to waive further reading. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Councilman Miller to adopt the Resolution (See later motion to take under submission.) Councilwoman Scotto said rather than adopting the Resolution, she would prefer to see the City become involved in this issue. Mr. Thompson stated he believes there is some misunderstanding as to what is being intended by SCAG. He pointed out that Downey has adopted a housing element, which attempts to address itself in providing housing for all citizens of the commu- nity, and this did pass through the SCAG review. Councilwoman Scotto indicated SCAG is made up of local officials, and they have spent many hours making sure SCAG does not usurp local authority. Mayor Pro Tem Greene suggested taking the Resolution under submission until Mayor Jennings is present to vote. Councilman Jackman also suggested studying the possibility of dropping the City°s membership in SCAG. Discussion followed. Mr. Thompson reviewed the original formation of SCAG as a coordinating agency, and he pointed out that whether or not Downey is a member of SLAG, it would still have to go through SCAG as the coordinating review agency for processing Federal grants. It was moved by Councilman Miller and seconded by Councilwoman Scotto to take the Resolution under submission. RESOLUTION NO. 3492 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING COMPENSATION FOR ELECTION OFFICERS IN THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and so ordered to waive further reading. Council Minutes 1/10/78 -3- It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3492, Responding to questions, Mr. Shand explained the result of a recent poll showed that Downey paid a lower amount to its election officers than surrounding cities, This, he said, will raise the amount halfway between what Downey has been paying and the County rate, AYESz 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings CASH CONTRACTS Following a summation of bids, it was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Councilman Miller to award Cash Contract #414, City Council Chamber Ceiling Remodeling, in the amount of the price bid, to Halas Corporation of Downey, the lowest bidder; waive the irregularity in the bid and bid bond, and consider approval of additional funds for installing new tile on the walls (Account #21-13938) (See later motion,) Mr. Spindel responded to questions regarding the alternate bid, the savings in heating and cooling costs, and minor adjustments that would be made as a result of the lowered ceiling. Councilwoman Scotto stated she feels this should be held until a decision is made concerning the total City Hall facility. Mr. Spindel said if the Council approves the alternate bid, an additional appropriation of $1,000 will be needed. The motion and the second were withdrawn. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to accept the alternate bid of Halas Corporation of Downey in the amount of $6669, for lowering the ceiling and installation of tile under Cash Contract. #414, and to appropriate $1,000 from General Revenue Sharing Funds to Account No.. 21-13938. AYES-. 3 Council Members. Miller, Jackman, Greene NOES- 1 Council Member: Scotto ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings MISCELLANEOUS COUNCIL ACTIONS It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto and seconded by Councilman Miller to authorize the Department of Public Works to proceed with the DART Control Area Program, as outlined (See addition to motion). Responding to questions, Mr. Spindel outlined the costs for the four CETA employees, one of which will have the position of coordinator. He noted a regular packer truck will be rented from a rubbish collector. He explained there is $5000 for DART promotion in the approved budget for this year. Discussion followed regarding the funding. Councilwoman Scotto suggested substitute wording to the sample letter to better inform the citizens regarding the program. Further discussion ensued regarding the selected target area and the target volume estimates. Councilman Jackman inquired about conducting the study through Calsan, Mr. Thompson replied that Calsan is not equipped to do this kind of statistical information and preparation; plus, the City has the advantage of using CETA personnel. Councilman Jackman asked about the eventual filling of the land fills. Mr. Spindel stated that under new State law, as of January 1, 1979, there will be a 25C surcharge for every ton deposited in the land fills. However, for any agency or City having an ongoing recycling program the fee will be waived, Councilwoman Scotto feels more information needs to be given to the public in order to make this program a success, Councilman Jackman indicated there are scavengers in his district, and that is one reason he feels people are not participating. Council Minutes 1/10/78 -4- Councilman Miller raised questions regarding the costs of the program and noted the City will have to consider whether it wants to spend money on something that pro- duces a loss. Mr„ Wynne said an additional $720 appropriation will be needed, It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to include the appropriation of $720 from the General Fund and to proceed with the DART Control Area Program, AYES. 3 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto NOES, 1 Council Member: Greene ABSENT. 1 Council Member. Jennings It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the establishment of a pilot group to continue to explore the feasibility of the Clean Community System - Anti -Litter Program. Mrs. Spindel said the Jaycees already started the survey and next weekend the Junior Women°s Club will complete their portion. The results of the survey will be reported to the Health & Environmental Sanitation Committee at its next meeting of January 16th. Mr. Spindel indicated that if there is a high community interest then letters will be sent out and meetings set up with approximately 60 community organi- zations to acquaint them with the program and enlist their support. Then, final approval will have to be obtained from the Council. AYES. 4 Council Members; Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT. 1 Council Member. Jennings It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Greene, and passed by the following vote to enter into a License Agreement with Marmac°s Rio Hondo Food Service, Inc., as recommended by staff and the Recreation and Community Services Commission. Councilman Jackman asked if this will improve the current facility. Mr. Neavill replied this new lease will provide that the licensee be required to do some extensive improvements in the existing banquet room within the first two-year period of the license agreement. He said Mr. McCallum is ready and willing to imme- diately remodel and redecorate the interior of the existing banquet facility. In addition, he mentioned the men°s locker room can be vacated to another location, and My. McCallum would be willing to remodel that into an additional smaller banquet room to accommodate 75 to 80 people. Mr. Neavill explained the Recreation & Community Service Commission has had extensive discussions with Mr. McCallum concerning the quality of food and the service and Mr. McCallum has asked that anyone not satisfied with the quality to notify him immediately. He said considering the number of people that hold banquets at the golf course, the amount of complaints is very low. Referring to the agreement, Councilwoman Scotto inquired regarding No. II-C on Page 2 concerning the discount given to events sponsored by the City. She said this would be allowing an organization having a function at the golf course to gain the benefit from the discount with the City and taxpayers picking up the difference, Mr. Neavill pointed out that 75 percent of the events are City -related functions. Discussion followed. Mayor Pro Tem Greene referred to Page 5, item 6, and noting a misunderstanding over a Rose Float Association function suggested reservations for an event be made in writing so that there cannot be any confusion, Mr. Neavill said attempts are being made to see that accurate records are kept. Councilman Miller inquired about the cost of the new locker room. Mr. Neavill stated the Engineering Division is presently working on two alter- nate possibilities for relocating the men°s locker room; One would be in the present pro shop which would require extensive remodeling of the plumbing; the other would be an addition on the northwest corner of the clubhouse structure. He noted that prior to any decision, staff would want to review the cost and figure what the potential revenue to the City would be of the additional banquet facility. Council Minutes 1/10/78 -5- Councilwoman Scotto asked if revenue cost estimates are available. Mr. Thompson replied estimates would be based on accommodating 75-80 people in the additional banquet room. At this time, he said, estimates are not available for building a new men°s locker room and converting the new facility. Further discussion ensued regarding the provisions contained in the agreement. AYES- 4 Council Members- Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT- 1 Council Member- Jennings It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by the following vote to approve the purchase of Equipment for Community Physical Fitness Facility -- Apollo Park Neighborhood Center. AYES- 4 Council Members- Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT- 1 Council Member- Jennings Southeast Burglary Investigation Team Chief Martin explained that in reviewing the program he has learned that it is highly recommended. He said this original effort is providing a service which would be difficult for the City to provide because of the manpower and time. Also, he in- dicated it was learned that the overhead could possibly be reduced because rent-free quarters have been found to house the team. Chief Martin pointed out that after March, the operation will be totally under the jurisdiction of Whittier, Pico Rivera, Norwalk and Downey jurisdiction rather than under Federal guidelines, which would result in more flexibility, in the event the City were faced with a particular crime problem, the task force of nine investigators, including equipment, would be at the City°s disposal, Councilman Miller questioned the $95,000 expenditure proposed. Mrs Thompson explained this would depend on whether the Council decides to approve or not approve the program and absorb its SEBIT personnel back into the Police Department. Then, he said, the manning table adopted in the City°s budget would have to be altered to accommodate the return of these employees. Chief Martin stated he was informed by the Whittier Police Chief that the Whittier City Council has agreed to this program in concept but has not taken formal actions He suggested that if the Downey City Council should approve the program, approval should be predicated on the affirmative action of the other cities. Councilwoman Scotto inquired whether the program would stay the same or change once it is under City jurisdiction rather than Federal. Lt. Carroway of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and currently with the SEBIT Program, indicated it is his hope in continuing the program to become more involved in the special police problems affecting each City, Councilman Jackman referred to the statistics on arrests and prosecution of these cases and stated he cannot justify spending this money for the SEBIT team when it comes directly from City funds. Discussion followed, Chief Martin outlined three options for the program: One is to let the program cease in March and if agreeable to the other cities to split the equipment between theme second, is to fund the program until budget time; and third, would be to extend the program through the next budget year during which time a more accurate evaluation can be given to the program as to the benefit the City actually receives with the Federal guidelines removed. He pointed out he has been assured there is no need to repair or replace any of the current equipment, Councilwoman Scotto made a motion to continue the program through June 30, 1978, and she then questioned whether the Council could commit itself to this program for the next year. Mr. Thompson replied he does not think funds can be authorized at this point. However, if the Council does intend to continue the program for one year beyond this fiscal year, it should go on record as stating that. Such an intent should have a bearing upon the next Council, Council Minutes 1/10/78 -6- It was then moved by Councilwoman Scotto and seconded by Councilman Miller to approve the Southeast Burglary Investigation Team program to be funded through June 30th, with the intent of continuing the program for the following year, subject to concurrence of the other agencies. AYES: 2 Council Members. Miller, Scotto NOES. 2 Council Members: Jackman, Greene ABSENT. 1 Council Member. Jennings Failed. Councilwoman Scotto requested the SEBIT program be brought back at the next meeting for the Mayor to voice his considerations. There being no objections it was so ordered. Participation in Inter -City TV Information Bureau Mr. Thompson said if the Council is interested in the program, it should indi- cate that desire at least in concept form. Also, he informed the Council there has not been the number of approvals of other cities needed to get the program started at this time; but, if approved by the Council, it would be possible to meet with the other cities to see if something can be worked out for the future. Mr. Thompson pointed out the program would not be large, but it would provide a basis for tele- vision spots which would be of some citizen value. He responded to questions regarding the concept for this program. It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Greene, and passed by the following vote to not approve participation in the Inter -City TV Information Bureau. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the Recreation and Community Services Commission's recommendation to appropriate $4000 from Account 440-661, Park Development Fund, for completion of necessary Art Museum Renovation exterior improvements. AYES: 3 Council Members: Miller, Scotto, Greene NOES: 1 Council Member: Jackman ABSENT. 1 Council Member: Jennings Amendment to Water System Acquisition Agreement It was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Councilman Miller to approve the Amendment to Water System Acquisition Agreement. (See later motion.) Mr.. Thompson explained two extensions are required: One is an extension of the Park Water Company agreement from January 13, 1978, to January 31,, 1978; the other is an extension of the Southern California Water Company agreement from January 30, 1978, to January 31, 1978. The motion and the second were withdrawn. It was then moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the Amendment to the Water System Acquisition Agree- ment with Park Water Company and authorize the Mayor to sign. AYES: 4 Council Members. Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilwoman Scotto, and passed by the following vote to approve the Amendment to the Water System Acquisition Agree- ment with Southern California Water Company and authorize the Mayor to sign. AYES. 4 Council Members. Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and so ordered to receive and file the Quarterly Report of the Downey Chamber of Commerce for October 1, 1977, through December 1, 1977. Withdrawal from Southern California Joint Powers Insurance Authority and Proposal to Self -Insure Councilman Jackman stated he has met with some contract and independent cities concerning a liability insurance program, and the end result was a program that wculd Council Minutes 1/10/78 -7- not save the City any money. He commented that the program would involve depositing a premium of 80 percent of the City°s present cost for liability coverage into a re -- serve fund, from which the claims would be paid, for the second year, the premium would be based on the claims paid during the first year. It was moved by Councilman Jackman to withdraw from the Southern California Joint Powers Insurance Authority and consider a self-insurance program. Mr. Thompson stated he thinks it is in the best interests of the City that the City self -insure and attempt to work with other independent cities concerning a mutual self-protection arrangement. Councilman Jackman suggested investigating the possibility of each City keeping its own insurance fund that can draw interest, but in the case of a large accident each City would help one another. Councilman Miller suggested a joint power arrangement through the Independent Cities. vote: The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Greene and passed by the following AYES; 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Jennings It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by the following vote to approve the appointments of Mrs. Leslie Bressler, District Three, and Mrs. Charlotte Lukes and Mrs. Betty Howell, both of District Four, to the Disaster Plans Advisory Committee. AYES: 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT- 1 Council Member: Jennings CITY MANAGER'S REPORT Mr. Thompson commented on his attendance at a meeting in New York with two investment services concerning a bond rating for the City in a Water Bond Sale to be held on January 17, 1978. He pointed out the meeting went well, but the rating has not been received as yet. STAFF REPORTS Mr. Spindel reported that Caltrans is involved in the widening of the Santa Ana Freeway northbound, and the sound barrier walls. Another citizens information meeting is scheduled for January 17th at the Unsworth School. Caltrans has requested the City to appoint an aesthetic adviser for the design of the walls and landscaping, and the adviser can be a staff member or citizen. Mr. Spindel suggested checking with some of the local architects to see if any would be interested in serving as a volunteer aesthetic adviser. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Councilman Miller commented on his personal experience with the Downey Paramedics and said he was pleased with the services they rendered. Councilman Jackman concurred. He then asked if anything is being done about the 105 Freeway homes, and he also inquired regarding a recent newspaper article concern- ing a young girl, whether she was taken to one of the Freeway homes. Chief Martin said she was not taken to one of the Freeway homes. Mr. Thompson said the last letter received from Caltrans indicated it was ready to make the necessary filing with the State. He said the City has basically done all it can legally, other than file a mandamus action to require the State to perform its duties under the law. Mr. Thompson reviewed the Council°s action of adopting a resolution determining the Freeway homes should be removed because they are hazardous to public health and safety. He noted the State has indicated it has completed a survey of the Freeway homes to see which ones can be sold and moved. The only action he knows the City can take is an action compelling the State to perform its non- discretionery duties. Councilman Jackman requested a review and report on the Freeway homes. He also requested a rating of the play Cabaret scheduled for the Downey Theatre and whether it can be rated for general audience. Councilman Jackman then noted the Management Retreat to be held next weekend is for the purpose of assessing problems, trends, policies, programs, etc., and he asked if the City Council is not the policy -making body of the City. Council Minutes 1/10/78 -8- Mr.. Thompson said yes, the Council is the policy -making body of the City, but the purpose of the retreat is to bring into focus not only the overall policy but the administrative policy and provide to the Council for consideration a comprehen- sive list of information and policies. He said since the City is just entering the budget season, this would be a good time for the Council to take any actions or changes in policy, Mr. Thompson pointed out the retreat has been budgeted for the past seven years and will cost approximately $2500-3500. Councilman Jackman inquired regarding the remodeling being done in City Hall and what the cost will be. Mr. Thompson said the City budgets approximately $8,000-10,000 under its main- tenance account, and the work is being done by the City maintenance workers in addition to their regular duties. He indicated this was submitted to the Council before the work began, and the work being done is to provide office space for the Housing and Human Services Coordinator It was noted the information concerning the cost for remodeling will be submitted to the Council. Councilman Jackman questioned whether the work should be done by City employees or contracted out. He asked for a report on this. Councilwoman Scotto inquired if the Edison Company has worked with the City concerning energy savings, Chief Wood replied the Fire Department has been involved with Edison in this regard, Councilwoman Scotto asked if a bulletin has been released regarding the open position for a Personnel Officer. Mr. Thompson replied no. Mayor Pro Tem Greene asked about a resume' of items to be discussed at the Retreat, Mr. Thompson indicated a summary will be put together at the Retreat and will be presented to the Council for consideration, Mayor Pro Tem Greene noted Mayor Jennings is compiling a Sister City Expense Report, He asked about the number of CETA employees who worked on the City°s float in the Rose Parade. Mr, Spindel stated that information is not ready as yet. Mayor Pro Tem Greene inquired about the changes necessary to bring the zoning in conformity with the adopted Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance. Mr, Goggin explained the Planning Commission will be asked to hold public hear- ings on the area of Florence Avenue between Lakewood and Paramount. He said it is staff°s opinion hearings should be held on those areas not conforming to the new Zoning Ordinance. It was moved by Councilwoman Scotto, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Greene, and passed by the following vote to direct Planning staff to schedule hearings to rezone properties in conformance with the new Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance recently adopted, as soon as feasible. Mr. Goggin pointed out that eventually the zoning maps and General Plan would have to be in conformity with each other, and he asked the City Attorney if there is a deadline for bringing these to conformity. Mr. Newton advised the City should proceed diligently to bring the zoning pattern into conformity with the General Plan. Mr. Goggin recommended staff prepare for public hearing before the Commission all areas in which the zones do not conform to the Zoning Ordinance, and then go back and study those areas where the zoning does not conform with the General Plan, He pointed out that only three changes in the General Plan can be made in any one year. Mr. Newton further advised that the Commission in one single action cannot rezone all areas of the City not in conformance with the zoning Ordinance because notices have to be sent out to all property owners affected. AYES- 4 Council Members: Miller, Jackman, Scotto, Greene ABSENT- 1 Council Member- Jennings Council Minutes 1/10/78 -9- Councilwoman Scotto referred to the service station on the southwest corner of Telegraph and Lakewood and noted the station has painted all of the areas for planting. Mr. Goggin explained it is possible they are getting ready to install astro turf but he will check into it. Alice Vartanian, 8603 Lubec Street, commented on the lowering of the Council Chamber ceiling. At 10:55 p.m., the meeting was adjourned to 4:00 p.m., January 16, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, for discussing the Reinvestment in Downey Program and the Birchdale Avenue Barricade. The meeting was also adjourned in memory of Mrs. Roy Q. Strain. h Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer William L. Greene, Mayor Pro Tem Council Minutes 1/10/78 -10-