HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-04-25-78-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APRIL 25, 1978
T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C T I O N S
SUBJECT:
Awards to winners in Poster & Logo Contest of
Clean Community System
ACTION:
Minutes: Adj. Reg. Meeting, April 10, 1978; Adj.
Regular Meeting, April 18, 1978; Adj. Regular
Meeting, August 30, 1977. Approved
Correspondence from LA Bd. Supervisors re
Mission Canyon Landfill Filed
Denial of Legal Claim, Ref. #366 Approved
CC #410, Bldg. & Restroom Modifications, Various
Locations: Grant 20-working day time extension
(A/C #29-13933) Approved
General Warrants #159788 - 160131
#204538 - 204585 Approved
8035 Albia St., Temporary Parking Control
Suspension: Grant auth. for temp. suspension
of 1-hr. prkg. restr. until 7/31/78 Approved
DPC #106, Brookshire Ave., Dacosta to 172' Sly. -
Private Street, Brookshire Ave. to 321' Wly.:
Accept decication & improvements Approved
DPC #107, Sewer Main Ext. in Easement: Accept
dedication & improvements
Citizen request for permission to keep Nubian
goat
Resolution #3533, Finding Necessity to Perform
work proposed under CC #430 by Force Account
(at 9612 Birchdale Ave.)
Resolution #3534, Providing for Designation of
Applicant's Local Agent for Federal Disaster
Assistance
Resolution #3535, Auth. Temporary Reduction of
Parking Spaces (11034 Downey Ave.)
Resolution Auth. Reduction of Parking Spaces
(8100 Third St.)
Resolution #3536, Urging Governor of Calif. &
State Dept. Transportation to Expedite Removal
of Vacant Homes from R/W of I-105 Fwy., Con-
struction of Fwy., & Urging Federal Dept.
Transportation to immediately approve the
EIS for Fwy.
SS Proj. #291, Unit II, Woodruff Ave. N/o
Firestone B1.: Award to T.J. Crosby Co. &
auth. transfer of funds to A/C #26-16151
S.S. Proj. #327, Slurry Seal for 1977-78:
Award to Ted R. Jenkins (A/C #10-4-5428 &
#26-16190)
Downey Energy Conservation Program
S.S. Proj. #328, Fifth St. Widening, Downey to
Brookshire (A/C #26-16191): Auth. payment.to
property owners for acquisition of property
Approved
Referred to Planning Div
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Taken under submission
Adopted
Approved
Approved
PAGE NO.
Referred to staff for inquiries
& report back
Approved
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Page 1 of 2
DOWNEY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 25, 1978
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT: ACTION• PAGE NO.
Extension of Agreement on DART Program to 6/2/78 Approved 4
Lease Agreement bet. City & Family Service of
Los Angeles Request denied 5
Submittal of Handicapped Transit Claim to
County Transportation Comm. for 1978-79 Art. 4.5
Transportation Dev. Act (TDA) for $33,000 Authorized 5
Proposed City Boundary modifications w/City of
Bell Gardens Staff authorized to proceed 6
Appointment of Michelle Bains to Redevelopment
Project Area Comm. Approved
use of City vehicle by Mr. Oberndorf,
n
Coordinator of Clean Community System Referred to staff 6
Discussion re Hotline Telephone Number for
105 Freeway 7
Study session to discuss Proposition 13, incl.
Proposition 8 & SB-1 Set for 4:30 p.m., May 2, 1978 7
Neighborhood Watch Program Staff to make presentation to
Council 7
Request for report re legal conversion of garage
at 9612 Birchdale Ave. 8
Retirement of Ray Lake May 2nd 8
- Meeting adjourned to 4:30 p.m., May 2, 1978 8
Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APRIL 25, 1978
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7.33 p.m.,
April 25, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor William L.
Greene presiding,
PRESENT. Council Members -
Theodore H. Jackman
Kenneth J. Miller Mayor Pro Tem
Lyell W. Swearingen
Milton R. Mackaig
William L. Greene Mayor
ALSO PRESENT- Charles W. Thompson, City Manager
Donald B. Robison, Assistant City Manager
Royal M. Sorensen, City Attorney
Beatrice Joy Braun -Stone, of the City Attorney°s office
Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development
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
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Terence Middlebrooke, Manager of Revenue
Thomas Tincher, Housing & Human Services Coordinator
Jeanne Cook, Deputy City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Bishop Thomas R. Wilson, Church of Latter Day
Saints, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Jackman.
Mayor Greene welcomed Council Members Mackaig and Swearingen to the City
Council.,
PRESENTATIONS
Mr., Henry Oberndorf, on behalf of Keep America Beautiful, Inc., and Downey
Clean Community System, stated Chairman Leona Aldridge will present an award to all
of the winners in the poster and logo contest of the Clean Community System° The
following winners received awards -
Third place - Poster- Misses Ann Morgan and Stephanie Fulton,
Second place - Poster- Miss Denise Martinez, including savings bond presented
by Mr. John Zrelak of Downey Zrelak Mortuary.
First place - Poster- Miss Gina Garcia, including savings bond presented by
Councilman Miller on behalf of Real Estate Unlimited,
Third place - Logo- Mark Coenan,
Second place - Logo- Chris Buccowich, including savings bond presented by
Mayor Greene on behalf of Calsan, Inc.
First place - Logo- Mike Amy, including savings bond presented by Miss
Downey Lori Hauser on behalf of Mr. and Mrs, Leslie
Keays and an anonymous donor.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by the following vote to approve the Consent Calendar -
Minutest Adjourned Regular Meeting, April 10, 1978, Reorganization Meeting,
April 18. 1978; and Adiourned Regular Meetinq, Auqust 30, 1977,
Correspondence from Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors regarding Mission
Canyon Landfill,
Denial of Leqal Claim- Ref. #366, Terry Lyons and State Farm Insurance,
Cash Contract #410, Building and Restroom Modifications, Various Locations-
Grant a 20-working day extension of time (Account #29-13933).
General Warrants- #159788 - 160131P #204538 - 204585: $697,611.27.
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -1-
Albia
the temporary suspension of one-h
A1bia Street until July 31, 1978.
Suspension; Grant authority for
rescriction adjacent to 8035
Avenue, Dacosta Street to 172 feet
,enue to 321 feet westerly. Accept
Downey Private Contract #107, Sewer Main Extension in an Easement° Accept
dedication and improvements completed.
AYES. 5 Council Members- Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
ORAL COINMUNICATIONS (Items not on Agenda)
Ms. Vartanian, 8603 Lubec, inquired regarding Agenda material in the lobby and
library.
Mr, Steven Brock, 7257 Dinwiddie, stated his request for permission to keep a
Nubian goat as a pet for his children, He pointed out his children are allergic to
cats and dogs, and doctors have advised him that Nubian goats are non -allergenic.
Mr. Brock mentioned his lot is almost one-third of an acre being 242 feet deep and
60 feet wide, and his immediate neighbors have no objection to the goat. He said
he submitted a written request to the Planning Commission, and his request was
turned down at the Commission's last meeting.
Mr. Goggin explained the Commission cannot take action without a formal hear-
ing. He said goats are not permitted in the R 1 zone, and if Mr. Brock wanted to
pursue this he would have to apply for a variance which would then require a
hearing before the Planning Commission.
Mr. Brock was asked to contact the Planning Department again and make the
proper application.
Mr. Raymond Breaux, 7802 Adoree Street, Chairman of the Health & Environmental
Sanitation Committee, addressed the Council regarding the DART Program. He was ad-
vised that the DART Program is on the Agenda and he should make his presentation at
the time it is heard.
ORDINANCES (none)
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 3533
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
FINDING IT NECESSARY TO PERFORM CERTAIN WORK PROPOSED
UNDER CASH CONTRACT NO, 430 BY FORCE ACCOUNT
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Mayor Greene to waive further reading,
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3533.
Councilman Miller questioned the City constructing a sewer lateral, as well as
pumping and filling the cesspool on this property.
Mr. Spindel explained this was included in the right-of-way acquisition and
agreement with the property owner, and since the City is acquiring the property the
cesspool becomes part of the City's right-of-way and would have to be connected to
the sewer.
Councilman Jackman asked if the property is a duplex.
Mr. Spindel indicated he understands there has been a member of the family
living in the converted garage, but as far as he knows the house is not a duplex.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Jackman, Swearingen, Greene
NOES: 1 Council Member. Miller
ABSTAIN: 1 Council Member: Mackaig
RESOLUTION NO. 3534
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
PROVIDING FOR DESIGNATION OF APPLICANT°S LOCAL AGENT
FOR FEDERAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -2-
The Resolution was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Miller and
seconded by Councilman Jackman to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3534.
RESOLUTION NO. 3535
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING A TEMPORARY REDUCTION OF PARKING SPACES
(11034 DOWNEY AVENUE)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman
and seconded by Councilman Miller to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3535.
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING A REDUCTION OF PARKING SPACES (8100 THIRD STREET)
The Resolution was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Jackman
and seconded by Councilman Miller to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Miller and seconded by Councilman Jackman to adopt
the Resolution.
Questions were raised regarding the fees charged for waiving parking spaces and
the new Zoning Ordinance requirements,
Mr. Goggin explained the plans were first proposed approximately five months
ago, and they did meet the requirements of the old code. However, the parking was
increased in the adoption of the new code, and the Planning Commission felt the use
of the property did not require additional spaces as provided in the new ordinance.
At the request of Councilman Miller, the Resolution was taken under submission.
RESOLUTION NO, 3536
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
URGING THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND THE
CALIFORNIA STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO
EXPEDITE THE REMOVAL OF VACANT HOMES FROM THE RIGHT OF
WAY OF THE I-105 FREEWAY, AND THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE
FREEWAY, AND URGING THE FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION TO IMMEDIATELY APPROVE THE ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT STATEMENT FOR THIS FREEWAY
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Miller to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3536.
Councilman Jackman stated the Council has had a history of not being 100 per-
cent in favor of the Freeway, and the Resolution was placed on the Agenda to see
whether or not the Council is now solidly behind the Freeway issue.
AYES- 5 Council Members: Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
CASH CONTRACTS
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by unanimous vote to award S.S. Project #291, Unit II, Woodruff Avenue N/o
Firestone Boulevard, in the amount of the unit prices bid, to T. J. Crosby Co.,
Inc., of Santa Ana, the lowest and best bidder, and authorize the transfer of
$4,000 from Account #26-16194 and #26-16174 into Account #26-16151.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by the following vote to award S.S. Project #327, Slurry Seal for Fiscal Year
1977-78, in the amount of the unit prices bid, to Ted R. Jenkins of Long Beach, the
lowest and best bidder (Account #10-4-5428 and #26-16190).
Mayor Greene inquired regarding the streets proposed for slurry seal.
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -3-
Mr. Spindel stated the 13 miles of slurry seal on residential streets is pri-
marily in the northern section of the City, whereas last year it was done primarily
in the southern portion. He said each year some Gas Tax funds are budgeted for
slurry seal on some of the City°s major streets, and this year the streets involved
are Second Street, Third Street, Stewart & Gray Road, Studebaker Road, and Seventh
Street, He responded to questions concerning the various types of street improve-
ments, such as chip sealing, and said he will submit a report on this to the new
Council Members,
Mayor Greene suggested the new Council Members consider taking a tour of the
City with Mr. Spindel to see the different types of street improvements used.
Mr. Spindel pointed out that every year an inspection is made of every street
in the City; a point rating is given on each street, and then the type of treatment
is determined by that point rating. He commented on the cost for the different
types of street improvements.
AYES: 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
MISCELLENOUS COUNCIL ACTIONS
Downey Energy Conservation Program
Mr. Thompson outlined the program, which would provide a forum for a number of
citizens to discuss conservation efforts, and it would also allow the City to gain
more expertise in this matter. He said a numher of other cities were contacted in
preparation of the report, all departments were involved in the discussions, and it
is believed there would be some advantage gained in the community becoming more
conscious of the energy and conservation efforts.
Councilman Jackman questioned what a panel of 14 citizens could accomplish.
He said although conservation of energy is a worthwhile effort, it should be done
on a Federal level rather than a local level.
Councilman Miller agreed.
Councilman Swearingen also does not see the value of this program on a local
level and feels it could possibly cost the City some money.
Mayor Greene suggested that beginning at a local level might be the way to
start, but he would question having 14 people serve on the committee.
Mr. Thompson pointed out that the City does not have research facilities or the
type of staff necessary to conduct research and experimentation. He said what is
involved is conservation effort and community awareness of the problem that is grow-
ing in the Country. Mr. Thompson commented on the energy cuts made by the City, and
he noted that there would be no additional staff required on this program but would
be a citizen conservation committee to discuss and utilize ideas that could be
utilized Citywide.
Discussion followed.
Councilman Miller suggested contacting the various groups to see if they are
interested and would be willing to appoint someone willing to serve.
Councilman Jackman concurred.
Staff was requested to make inquiries and report back to the Council.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by the following vote to authorize payment to property owners for acquisi-
tion of real property on S.S. Project #328, Fifth Street Widening, Downey to
Brookshire (Account #26-16191).
Responding to questions, Mr. Spindel explained that more property owners are
being contacted by the City's Real Estate Officer, and hopefully by the next Council
Meeting most of them will have been contacted. He commented briefly on condemnation
proceedings the City can initiate if the property owners do not agree to the right-
of-way acquisition. He also stated this project will probably include an
underground utility district similar to the other section on Fifth Street.
AYES. 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by the following vote to approve the Extension of the Agreement on the DART Program
until June 2, 1978.
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -4-
Mr, Raymond Breaux, representing the Health & Environmental Sanitation
Committee, said the Committee has been unanimous in hoping the program would be
perpetuated on a permanent basis, He commented on the trial pick-up area of every
other week and said that arrangement seems to have worked best for his family. Mr.
Breaux stated the rubbish contractor is also in favor of the every other week
pick-up and will be present at the next Committee meeting to substantiate this. He
said the dates for pick-up can be printed on the labels to be placed on the cans.
Responding to questions, Mr. Spindel explained the extension period will allow
staff to further evaluate the program. He further explained the four -month trial
period of every other week pickup expires the end of this month, and the results
of the trial period will be submitted to the Council.
Councilman Jackman requested information concerning the sta£f's evaluations
and also whether or not CETA employees are being used,
Mr. Thompson said the Council could make the decision as to whether CETA
employees are used in the program. He pointed out the test results show that al-
though -the percentage of people in the test areas have increased, the amount of
recyclable materials people are setting out does not pay for a stop. He commented
on the scarcity of areas for land fills and the costs for transportation to the
land fill sites, which he said are factors to be considered,
Mr. Breaux stated the Committee may be making recommendations to the Council
for temporary uses of CETA employees in the future with regard to the DART Program,
AYES. 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
Lease Agreement between City of Downey and Family Service of Los Angeles
Mr. Neavill stated the Recreation & Community Services Commission has requested
the Council to defer action on this until the Commission has had an opportunity to
review it, The Commission has also requested this matter be deferred to the Council
Meeting of May 9th,
Councilman Miller inquired if any of the Family Service offices are located in
a public facility,
Ms, Josephine Gumbiner, District Director of Southeast District, stated none of
the Family Service offices are located in City or County -owned buildings. She
commented on the function of the Family Service Agency and the territory it services.
Councilman Jackman said he would not consider the remodeling work to be an
improvement to the facility, and other agencies could also request similar work to
be done,
Councilman Miller questioned the City spending money for improvements, in view
of the outcome of the Jarvis Amendment in the June Primary,
Mayor Greene indicated he has had at least 15 telephone calls from people ex-
pressing opposition to the City going into the real estate business. He said
approval of this request could be setting a precedent,
Councilman Miller suggested the Agency consider soliciting donations to pay
for the remodeling needed.
It was moved by Councilman Swearingen, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and
passed by unanimous vote to deny the request of the Family Service Agency,
It 'was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by the following vote to authorize submittal of a Handicapped Transit Claim to the
--- Los Angeles County Transportation Commission for 1978-79 Article 4,5 Transportation
Development Act (TDA) in the amount of $33,000.
Mr, Thompson explained that in lieu of tonight's meeting, the deadline date of
April 24th for submitting the claim for funding was waived. He commented that
under the program the City operates three vans. Two are for handicapped and the
other is for senior citizens. He mentioned there is one CETA employee acting as
dispatcher, and the drivers are also CETA employees.
AYES. 5 Council Members: Jackman, Miller, Swearingen, Mackaig, Greene
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Mr. Thompson, with the aid of an aerial map, outlined proposed City Boundary
Modifications with the City of Bell Gardens, which involves two properties. One is
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -5-
"I
property beginning at the curve line on Scout Avenue to the present City boundary,
which would be de -annexed by the City of Bell Gardens and annexed to the City of
Downey; the other property is south of Suva Street lying east of the City boundary
and would be de -annexed by the City of Downey and annexed to the City of Bell
Gardens. He explained the reason for the proposed transfers is that if both pro-
perties decided to develop they would have to satisfy requirements of both cities
with regard to building and zoning regulations. Mr. Thompson commented on the size
of the properties involved and noted Bell Gardens has agreed to a buffer zone on
the property immediately to the west of the apartment buildings in the City of
Downey to provide protection against any industrial development,
Councilman Miller inquired regarding the possibility of the owner of the
property proposed for annexation by Bell Gardens signing a document restricting use
of that property.
Mr. Sorensen advised that the City has recorded covenants affecting land
within the City of Downey, but he is concerned as to the binding effect of a
covenant on land within a different city.
Responding to questions, Mr. Spindel mentioned there is a different assessed
valuation for each of the properties involved; however, it is believed that once
the City of Downey acquires the one parcel the frontage of that property will become
more valuable for development. Commenting on the maintenance of Scout Avenue, he
explained the City of Downey would maintain the sidewalk area and any street lights
or trees, but the City of Bell Gardens would maintain the entire street.
Mayor Greene inquired about further traffic problems that could be created on
Suva Street.
Mr. Thompson said he does not feel the annexation or de -annexation would have
any bearing, but it is possible the opening of Scout Avenue could have.
Discussion followed.
Mr. Thompson pointed out if Council agrees, surveys would have to be made to
see that the boundaries are accurate; then, each City Council would have to pass a
resolution to be sent to IAFCO; and public hearings will have to be held before
final approval.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by unanimous vote to authorize staff to proceed,
STAFF REPORTS
Mr. Tincher said there have been two resignations on the Redevelopment Project
Area Committee, and the law requires there be representation from throughout the
project areas in order to meet certain criteria. He submitted the name of Michelle
Bains for consideration by the Council and noted Ms. Bains is a residential owner -
occupant residing in the Gardendale-Paramount area. In the meantime, attempts will
be made to appoint someone from the Hospital area,
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by unanimous vote to approve the appointment of Michelle Bains to the
Redevelopment Project Area Committee.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Jackman questioned the need for Mr. Oberndorf, coordinator of the
Clean Community System in the City of Downey, to drive a City vehicle. He pointed
out the City is self -insured, and he raised the question as to whether or not Mr.
Oberndorf should be driving in view of his past cardiac history.
Mr. Thompson mentioned Mr. Oberndorf does set up meetings with businessmen in
the community to discuss their involvement in the program, and Mr. Oberndorf has
used a pool car for this purpose.
Mr. Spindel explained this is a unique program in that there are no other full-
time volunteers, and in Mr. Oberndorf°s case, he does not have a vehicle of his own.
Councilman Jackman suggested evaluating the need for Mr. Oberndorf to drive a
City vehicle and also consider the possibility of assigning someone to the program
that has his own automobile.
Councilmen Jackman and Miller indicated they would like to see some alternatives.
Councilman Mackaig feels Mr. Oberndorf should be kept on the program, but he
questioned whether Mr. Oberndorf should use a City vehicle.
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -6-
Councilman Miller said he would like to see a statement from a physician that
Mr. Oberndorf is able to drive,
Mr. Sorensen advised that someone driving a City vehicle and performing in a
City committee function, whether he has a heart attack, is negligent or whatever,
the City would have liability,
Mr. Thompson indicated staff will look at this matter carefully to see what the
alternate possibilities might be, including a doctor°s statement, and then will come
back with suggestions,
Councilman Jackman inquired regarding the status of a Hotline Telephone Number
for the 105 Freeway.
Mr. Spindel said telephone number 773-1383 is the number to dial and then ask
for extension 263 during working hours, Monday through Friday; during the weekend
and evenings the "77311 number will ring directly through.
Mr, Thompson pointed out that Mr. Huggins had indicated he could supply a re -
recorder to record all of the calls received.
Councilman Jackman stated the School District will print stickers of the
telephone number for students to take home to their parents.
Mr. Thompson mentioned letters have been prepared which will be utilized for
circulating through the schools and explaining the Hotline number.
Councilman Jackman stated he would like to be informed of every call received
on the Hotline, and after several weeks of monitoring, if there are no calls received,
then the monitoring should be discontinued during off -hours.
Councilman Miller requested the Council to set a study session for discussing
Proposition 13, as well as Proposition 8 and SB-1, so that the Council will under-
stand the ramifications and effect these Propositions will have on local government.
Mr. Thompson mentioned he asked the City Council for authorization to speak to
the public regarding Proposition 13, because he had several requests to speak
regarding its impact on City Government, and that was approved by the Council at its
meeting of March 28th.
Councilmen Jackman and Swearingen agreed to the study session.
Councilman Mackaig also agreed but feels the new Council should vote as to
whether the City Manager should speak for or against the Propositions on behalf of
the City Council.
Mr. Thompson explained he has never represenxed the City of Downey in any other
way other than to represent the majority views of the City Council. He said that is
why he asked the Council whether he should respond to public invitations he has re-
ceived, and the Council instructed him to proceed. The presentation he made to the
Lions Club was in essence exactly the same report he made to the Council, which is
in writing, and he did not express any personal views.
Discussion followed.
Mayor Greene questioned whether the study session would achieve anything.
The study session was set for 4:30 p.m., May 2, 1978.
Councilman Swearingen requested approval of the Council to have staff bring to
the Council information concerning a Neighborhood Watch Program, which would help to
prevent crimes.
Chief Martin advised a Neighborhood Watch Program is already being undertaken
which is a concept to encourage people to help one another by watching their homes.
He said literature is being assembled by his staff, and he was planning to proceed
with a Community Involvement Anti -crime Program as a departmental project,
Mr. Thompson requested Chief Martin to make a presentation of the program for
the Council.
Councilman Swearingen concurred and asked to be informed of all the activities.
Mayor Greene inquired regarding the status of the 25_year Employee Award Survey.
Mr. Thompson explained the report is now being prepared in its final form.
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -7-
Ms. Vartanian, 8603 Lubec, asked if the garage at 9612 Birchdale has been con-
verted to living quarters.
Mr. Spindel explained he has only heard the garage was converted for use by an
invalid, but he has not actually checked it out.
Ms. Vartanian said the Zoning Ordinance requires all residences to have a
garage or carport, and she questioned whether acquiring the front portion of the
property on Birchdale might be creating a violation of the Zoning Ordinance.
Mr,. Spindel indicated there would still be a place for two vehicles to park on
the property.
Councilman Miller requested the Council receive a report back as to whether
there is legal conversion of the garage.
Ms. Vartanian also favored allowing Mr. Oberndorf to drive City vehicles in the
performance of his volunteer work for the City.
Mrs. Margaret Fillet, 9904 Birchdale, concurred with Ms. Vartanian regarding
Mr. Oberndorf and feels he should be allowed to continue the work he is doing. She
then raised questions regarding the City's acquisition of property for right-of-way
at 9612 Birchdale and the costs for improvements to be made. She commented on the
non -permanent employment status of CETA employees and raised further questions re-
garding the CETA program in the City of Downey,
Mr. Thompson explained the type of work that is being done by CETA employees
in the City and the Federal requirement for the number of CETA employees to be
hired by the City. He also responded to questions of Councilman Mackaig concerning
employee training under the CETA program and the filling of vacant CETA positions.
Discussion followed.
Mr. Spindel pointed out that Mr. Lake is retiring May 2nd after 20 years with
the City of Downey.
Mr. Lake extended his appreciation to the people who have worked with him
during the past 20 years.
Mr. Thompson indicated he has enjoyed working with Mr. Lake for the past eight
years.
Mr. Raymond Breaux, 7802 Adoree, President of the Pony Colt Baseball League in
the City, commended City staff of the Parks & Recreation for their assistance in
making their opening day a success.
At 10:32 p.m., the meeting was adjourned to 4:30 p.m., May 2, 1978, in the
Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall.
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
William L. Greene, Mayor
Council Minutes 4/25/78 -8-