HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-07-25-78-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JULY 25, 1978
T A B L E O F M I N U T E - A -CT -ION S
SUBJECT:
Presentations to Margo Hoffer & LeRoy Rodenberg
Public hearing on formation of Lighting
Maintenance District under provisions of
Lighting & Landscaping Act of 1972
Safety Lighting for fiscal year 1978-79 be
paid out of General Fund & deleted from
proposed assessment dist „ & Engineer's
Report modified accordingly
Resolution #3579, Overruling All Protests re
Forming Assmt. Dist. AD 121 & Delete Safety
Lighting Requirement
Engineer's Report on AD 121, as modified
Resolution #3580, Ordering Formation of Ltg.
Maint. Dist. AD 121 & Confirming Assmts, as
amended
Public hearing on abandonment of Assmt. Dist,
for 1919 Act
Motion to not abandon Assmte Dist. for 1919
Act
Motion that required amount for maintenance &
electricity to provide mid -block street lights
in 105 Freeway Corridor be taken out of Mid -
block City Lighting ASsmt. Dist., & every
effort made to collect money from Caltransg
if not collected, it should then be paid out
of General Fund
Assessments for Lot Cleaning for Past
1977-78 Fiscal Year
Public hearing on Granting Franchise to SOHIO
Transportation Co. of Calif,
Public hearing on Adoption of 1976 Edition
of Uniform Fire Code
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar
Minutes° Adja Reg. Meetings 11/28/77;
12/8/77„ & 12/19/77
Correspondence from Commerce supporting
AS 2371 & SB 428 re Obscenity
Correspondence from Burbank re Amount of
Membership Assessment in SCAG
Denial. of Legal Claim° Ref. #384
General Warrants: #162053 - 162291
#204823 - 204862
Downey Private Contract #109, Seaaca Ste E/o
Pangborn Ave..- Accept dedication & imprvmts.
L.A. County Solid Waste Managemt, Comm.: Take
position in favor of retaining present plan
of representation
Minutes.- Regular Meeting 7/11/78: Cn. Miller
req. remarks concerning safety lighting be
entered into Minutes
ACTION°
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Closed
Approved
Adopted
Approved
Adopted
Closed
Approved
Approved
Affirmed
Continued to August 8, 1978
PAGE NO.
Closed; taken under submission
Approved
Filed
Filed
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
So ordered
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Page 1 of 2
COUNCIL MINUTES, JULY 25, 1978
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT°
Citizen request for Council consideration re
Dog License Fee
Citizen request for City to continue printing
Senior Citizen Club Newsette
Minutes, Regular Meeting 7/11/78
Ordinance #551, Amending DMC re Noise
Ordinance #552, Amending DMC re Permit Fees
Resolution #3561, Declaring Int. to Establish
Underground Utile Dist, on Fifth St, bete
Brookshire & Downey (Dist. #10)
Resolution #3582, Reg. Allocation of County
Aid to Cities Funds for Maintenance of
Select System Streets
Resolution #3583, Urging PUC Approval on
Point Conception LNG Terminal Site
ACTION:
To be placed on next Agenda
City to attempt to obtain
volunteers to do work
Approved as amended
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
Adopted
SoSe Proje #328, Fifth Street Widening, Downey
to Brookshire, R/W Acquis, #4366: Authorize
removal of property from action of Eminent
Domain & approve acquisition by negotiation
(A/C #26-1-6191) Approved
Special Lot Cleaning on Property at 7235
Rio Flora Pl.- Auth, Dept, Public Works to
do work at estimated cost of $500
Hearing on adoption of Ordinance re Control
of Adult Businesses
Hearing on Appeal, ZV #29, 7944-46 Third St.
Request of Caltrans to close 1-105 Freeway
Downey Field Office, w/condition office be
reopened when injunction is lifted & property
acquisition is started again
Appointment of Mr. Leslie R. Keays to Civil
Defense & Disaster Council
Discussion re rental fees for use of Downey
Community Theatre
Meeting adjourned to 7.00 p.m., August 1,
1978, in Downey Community Theatre, for joint
meeting with Community Development Comma
Approved
Set for August 8, 1978
Set for August 8, 1978
Approved
Approved
Rec. & Comm, Services Comm, to
make recommendation to Council
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Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JULY 25, 1978
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m.,
July 25, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor William L. Greene
presiding,
PRESENT, Council Members:
Theodore H. Jackman
Kenneth Jo Miller Mayor Pro Tem
Milton R. Mackaig
Lyell W. Swearingen
William L. Greene Mayor
ALSO PRESENT: Charles W. Thompson, 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
Don Davis, Fire Chief
William A. Goggin, City Planner
Howard Stup, Building Official
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Charles Go Eccleston, Traffic Engineer
Thomas Tincher, Housing & Human Services Coordinator
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Jeanne Cook, Deputy City Clerk -Treasurer
The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Michael E. Winstead, Downey United
Methodist Church, followed by the Flag Salute led by Councilman Swearingen.
PRESENTATIONS
Councilman Miller presented a plague to Mrs, Margo Hoffer in recognition for her
service on the Personnel Advisory Board from July 3, 1974, to June 30, 1978,
Councilman Jackman presented a plague to Mr. Lem Rodenberg in recognition for
his service on the Personnel Advisory Board from October 26, 1971, to June 30, 1978,
HRARTNGS
Mayor Greene declared that this is the time and place for the hearing to deter-
mine whether the public convenience and necessity require the formation of a Lighting
Maintenance District under and pursuant to the provisions of the Lighting and
Landscaping Act of 1972.
Due to the number of people present, at 7:50 p.m. Mayor Greene recessed the
meeting to the Downey Community Theatre. At 8030 p.m. the meeting resumed in the
Theatre with all Council Members present.
Mr, Spindel explained there are no new lights contemplated at this time and
noted the Notices of Improvement were posted as required by law, which merely involve
the method of financing the street lights already installed. He referred to charts
on City-wide safety lights and mid -block lights and discussed the proposed method for
financing these systems. During his presentation, Mr. Spindel pointed out that almost
all of the street lights are owned by Southern California Edison Company, and if these
lights were turned out, the City would still have to pay Edison 68 percent of the rate.
He noted the assessments would be levied on a benefit basis rather than through an Ad
Valorem Tax. Mr. Spindel commented on the suggested breakdown of rates proposed and
responded to questions of people in the audience regarding the assessments on resi-
dential property,
Mrs, Lawrence E. Walsh raised a question regarding the hearing procedure,
Mr. Lloyd Hodge, 9144 Angell Street, inquired regarding the assessment for lights
in the 105 Freeway corridor and discussed street sweeping in his neighborhood,
Mr, James Me Anderson, 9583 Gallatin Road, stated his protest to the required
method for advertising the hearing but favored the method of financing the lights,
Mr., Lawrence E. Walsh, property owner at 10420 Downey Avenue, protested the
street 'lighting reorganization assessment district and read a prepared statement of
his objection, a copy of which is on file in the office of the City Clerk,
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -1-
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Mrs. James Earl Cristo, State Vice -Chairman of the United Organization of Tax-
16
payers, said the action proposed by the Council would be a shift of taxes and would
circumvent the intent of Proposition 13. He urged a no vote of the City Council on
this matter.
Councilman Miller pointed out he does not have street lights and does not feel
he should have to pay for other people's lights; however, he questioned whether a
better method is available for the needed financing.
Mr. Cristo concluded that Proposition 13 mandates this matter be put to the vote
of the people affected,
Mr. Walter O'Connell, 9254 Birdvale Drive, cited sections of Resolution No. 3575
requiring the City to maintain landscaping and street lighting. He read his letter
of protest, a copy of which is on file in the office of the City Clerk.
Mr. Larry Hoag, 7730 4th Place, discussed the requirement that all protests must
be in writing. He then read his letter of protest, which is on file in the City
Clerk's office.
Mr. Darrell Hoffman, 9436 Stoakes, feels citizens should pay for benefits re-
ceived. He said he receives no benefit from safety lights.
Mr. Carl Rummell, 12714 LaReina, said he feels citizens are being fed "scare
tactics" and suggested the assessment not be passed until it is known exactly what is
needed.
Mr. Charles Acuff, 7860 Lyndora, raised questions regarding the difference in
amount for residential mid -block lights as compared to safety lights.
Mr. Spindel pointed out there are more mid -block lights in the City, and they
are spaced closer together. He indicated that any assessments for lighting cannot be
used for any other operation of the City,
Mr. William Zacker, 9602 Julius Avenue, read a prepared statement in protest to
the Citywide lighting district. A copy of his letter is on file in the office of the
City Clerk.
Mr. Howard Pooley, 10309 South Hasty, and owner of apartments at 7365 Emily Lane,
also read his written protest, which is on file in the City Clerk's office.
Mr. Buckner, 7264 Rio Flora, raised questions regarding the City's contractual
relationship with Southern California Edison Company and the financial responsibility
if the lights were removed.
Mr. Spindel explained the cost would continue, and he noted the rates are
established by the Public Utilities Commission.
Mr. David Chandler, 9754 Bellder Drive, said the proposal is in direct contra-
diction to the intent of Proposition 13, and he feels facts should be presented to
show the citizens more funds are needed for the City's operation,
Mr. John Barr, 9408 Samoline Avenue, said the safety lights were put in by the
City and the City should pay for them. He favored putting this to a vote of the people.
Mr. Carl Warren raised questions regarding the sewer service charge and the pro-
posed lighting assessment,
Mr. Walter O'Connell objected to a charge for sewer lines because he said this
is City property. He complained about the trees in the parkways interferring with
power lines.
Mr. Henry DeKuyper, 7625 Sarabeth Street, discussed property taxes and agreed
with the lighting system. He said those who benefit should pay their fair share.
Mr. Mike Manicone, 10400 Gaybrook, favored separating the lighting systems. He
inquired regarding the legal basis for the City to pay for the lights out of the
General Fund. He said he does not want his lights turned off,
Mr. Newton replied it is believed that proposed payment of lighting assessments
for special areas not of general application to the City would be subject to success-
ful attack in Court because it would be a tax upon the general taxpayers utilized by
a limited segment of the City.
(name inaudible) said she owns industrial property in the City and commented on
what it would cost her for lighting if the proposal is approved. She requested the
citizens be allowed to vote on this issue.
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -2-
Ms. Peggy Madsen, 7736 Otto, stated her complaint regarding the dog license fee'- A.f
and the proposed method of assessing for street lights,
Mr. Ernest Jennings, 7523 East Cord, cited complaints regarding the services
rendered by the City's Water Department.
Mr. Fred Stokoe, 9804 Brookshire, suggested the Council consider safety lights
as a separate matter from the other lights and also make known to the public what
cutbacks it has made since Proposition 13.
Ms. Vartanian, 8603 Lubec, raised questions regarding the proposed rate for
street lights and objected to the way this is being proposed. She submitted her
written protest and that of Mr. and Mrs. Fillet,
Ms. Louise Mater, 9003 Cord, favored street lights in the City and inquired what
the State's surplus funds would be used for.
Mr. Thompson replied State law prescribes the funds must first be utilized for
Police and Fire and public safety.
Mr. Joe Glenn, 9018 Birchleaf, said he read in the paper that Norwalk's lighting
costs are paid directly out of its General Fund,
Mr.. Thompson explained all of Norwalk's arterial streets are fully lighted, and
every City has its priority. He pointed out that the Cities surrounding Downey are
contract cities.
Mr. Dan Santa Cruz, 9238 Paramount Boulevard, said his street has both safety
and mid -block lights, which he pays for.
An unannounced speaker cited his complaint regarding the dog license fee.
Mr. Zacker made inquiries regarding cutbacks of the City as a result of
Proposition 13.
A lady in the audience inquired regarding the State tax on her telephone bill.
Mr. Thompson explained the Legislature mandated several years ago that every
City throughout the State would have a 911 emergency system, and the State tax is to
cover this system, which should be implemented in 1981 or 1982.
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavits of Publication, Post-
ing, and Mailing, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and so
ordered to receive and file the Affidavits.
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests.
Mr. Shand replied written protests have been received during the past week and
during the meeting.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and passed
by the following vote to close the hearing.
Councilman Jackman indicated he will be making a motion that the safety lighting
be continued for this year out of General Funds. The mid -block lights were installed
by request of the property owners and approved by the City Council, and he feels the
property owners should continue to pay for them. He would be agreeable to a motion
that the mid -block lights be paid for by the method recommended.
Councilman Miller said he has expressed prior concern regarding safety lighting
being placed in a special assessment, and he feels possibly the City may receive addi-
tional funds from unsecured property taxes. He concurred with Councilman Jackman
regarding the safety lights and said he feels the mid -block lights should be paid for
by those who benefit from them, Councilman Miller noted the assessments received for
the lighting will be placed into a fund, accounted for, and any surplus will be
credited next year. He favored a provision for refund to senior citizens who would
experience an increase as a result of the assessment. He commented on the tax rate
for services in the City of Norwalk, the total of which he said is higher than the
City of Downey.
Councilman Mackaig still favors Proposition 13, he still feels there is "fat" in
the City's budget, and he will not vote to take safety lighting out of the General
Fund. He suggested the Council consider removing mid -block lights because in the
near future utility rates could be prohibitive.
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -3-
Councilman Swearingen stated he voted for and still favors Prop
osition 13, and
he does not favor an extra assessment for lighting,
Mayor Greene concurred with Councilman Jackman regarding the safety lights.
Roll call vote on motion to close the hearing:
AYES. 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Mackaig, Swearingen, Greene
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by unanimous vote that the safety lighting at the cost of $162,000 estimated by staff
be paid for the fiscal year 1978-79 out of the General Fund of the Downey City Budget
--- and deleted from the proposed assessment district, and that the Engineer's Report be
modified accordingly.
Mr. Newton advised if the Council wishes to proceed with the proposed assessment
district, it should consider the resolutions prepared with the understanding they
have been modified deleting the safety lighting.
RESOLUTION NO. 3579
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
OVERRULING ALL PROTESTS RELATIVE TO FORMING ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT AD 121 AND DELETE SAFETY LIGHTING REQUIREMENT
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, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3579.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Jackman, Miller, Greene
NOES: 2 Council Members: Mackaig, Swearingen
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Mayor Greene, and passed by
unanimous vote to approve the Engineer's Report as modified.
RESOLUTION NO. 3580
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ORDERING THE FORMATION OF LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT
AD 121 AND CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AS AMENDED
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 Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3580.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Jackman, Miller, Greene
NOES: 2 Council Members: Mackaig, Swearingen
Mayor Greene declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
Abandonment of the Assessment District for the 1919 Act. He inquired if the City
Clerk had the Affidavits of Posting, Mailing, and Publication, to which the City
Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by
the following vote to receive and file the Affidavits,
A discussion was held regarding taking this matter under submission.
AYES: 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Mackaig, Swearingen, Greene
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections against the abandonment,
Mr. Shand replied no; the protests received were in relation to the formation of
the Citywide lighting district.
Mr. Newton outlined the procedure Council may take if it is Council's intention
not to abandon the lighting district.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman to close the hearing.
Mayor Greene inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to this matter.
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -4-
Mr.. Zacker requested the record reflect he did object in writing to Resolution
No. 3572.
An anonymous speaker inquired regarding the payment for mid -block lights in front
of vacant property in the 105 Freeway corridor. She said the State has taken the posi-
tion that the street lights are on City property.
Mr.. Spindel said a bill has been sent to Caltrans, but payment has not been
received.
Councilman Miller inquired if the Freeway lights are included in this proposal,
and Mr. Spindel replied yes,
Councilman Miller feels people with mid -block lights should not have to pay for
the Freeway lights in front of vacant property, and the amount should be credited to
the State.
Mr. Rod Stewart, 10733 Western Avenue, inquired about the Council's vote to
approve the Citywide district against the will of the people present.
Councilman Miller commented the safety lighting program in the City was a decision
of the City Council, and he feels this should be paid for out of the General Fund. He
also feels the safety lights provide value and benefit to the citizens; however, mid -
block lights were put in at the request of property owners, and they should continue
to pay for them.
Anonymous speakers voiced opposition to the Council's vote on formation of the
Citywide lighting district.
Mrs. Fillet raised further questions regarding the payment for lights in the
Freeway corridor owned by Caltrans. She requested an action of the Council be taken
on this issue.
The motion to close the hearing was seconded by Councilman Swearingen and passed
by unanimous vote.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by
unanimous vote to not abandon the Assessment District for the 1919 Act.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by
unanimous vote that whatever the amount required for maintenance and electricity to
provide for the mid -block street lights in the 105 Freeway Corridor be taken out of
the Mid -block City Lighting Assessment District, and every effort made to collect that
money from Caltrans; if not collected, it should then be paid out of the General Fund.
Mayor Greene declared a recess from 11:35 p.m. to 11:45 p.m. The meeting resumed
with all Council Members present.
Mayor Greene declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
Lot Cleaning Program for Past 1977-78 Fiscal Year. He inquired if the City Clerk had
the Affidavit of Publication, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered
to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests, and
the City Clerk replied he had not.
Mayor Greene then inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in
protest to the Lot Cleaning Program, and there was no response.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by
unanimous vote to close the hearing.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by
unanimous vote to affirm the Lot Cleaning Assessments on property which has been
cleaned during the previous fiscal year,
Mayor Greene declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
Granting Franchise to SOHIO Transportation Company of California. He inquired if the
City Clerk had the Affidavit of Publication, to which the City Clerk responded in the
affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and so ordered
to receive and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not,
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -5-
Mayor Greene inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in protest
to granting the franchise, and there was no response.
Mr. Newton advised there has been a recommended change in the Ordinance, which
will not be submitted until the next Council Meeting,
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and so ordered
to continue the hearing to 7:30 p.m., August 8, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the
Downey City Hall,
Mayor Greene declared that this is the time and place for the public hearing on
Adoption of 1976 Edition of the Uniform Fire Code. He inquired if the City Clerk had
the Affidavit of Publication, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
It was moved by Councilman Miller and seconded by Councilman Jackman to receive
and file the Affidavit.
Mayor Greene inquired if the City Clerk had received any written protests or
objections, and the City Clerk replied he had not,
Mayor Greene inquired if there was anyone present who wished to speak in opposi-
tion to adoption of the 1976 Uniform Fire Code, and there was no response.
Councilman Swearingen requested the ordinance be submitted to the Building
Appeals Board for recommendation.
Mr. Thompson noted questions were raised regarding Section 3314 on Page 5 of the
ordinance, concerning the fire sprinkler systems. He said it is staff°s intent to
bring back an amendment to have this removed.
Chief Davis explained it was the City Attorney°s opinion the Council could adopt
the Ordinance at this time and then it could be amended. He pointed out it was not
staff°s intent to include apartment houses under Section 3314.
It was moved by Councilman Swearingen and seconded by Councilman Mackaig to
close the hearing.
It was moved by Councilman Swearingen and seconded by Councilman Mackaig to
refer the Ordinance to the Building Appeals Board,
The motion and second were withdrawn. The Ordinance was then taken under submis-
sion to the next meeting.
REMOVAL OF ITEMS FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
Agenda Item VIII-A, Minutes of Regular Meeting of July 11, 1978, was removed
from the Consent Calendar.
CONSENT CALENDAR
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: Adjourned Regular Meetings of November 28, 1977, December 8, 1977, and
December 19, 1977.
Correspondence from City of Commerce supporting and endorsing Assembly Bill
No. 2371. ODnosinc Obscenitv. and Senate Bill No, 428, Defining Obscenity.
Correspondence from City of Burbank protesting amount of Membership Assessment
in SCAG.
Denial of Legal Claim, Ref. #384, Gary L. Steffey.
General Warrants: #162053 - 162291; #204823 - 204862: $524,926.89.
Downey Private Contract #109 Seaaca Street east of Pangborn Avenue: Accept
dedication and improvements completed.
Los Angeles County Solid Waste Management Committee: Take position in favor of
retaining present plan of representation.
AYES: 5 Council Members: Jackman, Miller, Mackaig, Swearingen, Greene
Councilman Miller inquired if it is proper for new Council Members to approve
Minutes of Meetings that took place prior to their election to the Council.
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -6-
Mr. Newton responded the existing City Council acts on all Minutes placed before
it for approval.
Speaking to the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 11, 1978, Councilman Miller
requested his remarks concerning safety lighting be entered into these Minutes. It was
so ordered by the Mayor.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (Items not on Agenda)
An anonymous speaker requested the Council grant a hearing on the Dog License Fee
for the next Council Meeting and a provision made regarding the delinquency date of
the license fee. He questioned the constitutionality of the fee increase.
Mr. Thompson said any changes in the fee would require a change in the ordinance
and a budget amendment to reflect the effect of this on the payment to the Animal
Control. He said he submitted a report to the Council concerning a 25 percent re-
duction in the current fees, noting it would reduce the amount of revenue by
approximately $39,000, and that deficit would have to be made up by a General Fund
subsidy. He commented on what it would cost the City to make refunds to people who
have already paid their fee.
Councilman Miller suggested a report back from the City Attorney and that this
be placed on the Agenda for the next Council Meeting.
Councilman Swearingen concurred.
Mr. Newton explained the constitutionality of charging a fee for maintaining a
dog has been well established.
Mayor Greene indicated this will be placed on the next Agenda.
Ms. Ella Mae Fallon discussed a previous request for the City to continue printing
the Senior Citizen Recreation Club Newsette. She again requested the Department of
Park & Recreation's help, and she noted the Newsette should be ready for mailing on
August lst.
Mr. Neavill explained the policy in practice now is if an organization can pro-
vide volunteer labor, machines are available for this, and staff would provide the
training for the volunteers.
Ms. Fallon insisted it is difficult for seniors with various health problems to
work as volunteers on this.
Councilman Miller inquired about training current senior citizen volunteers to
do this work.
Mr. Neavill noted other senior citizen groups have fund-raising events. He
mentioned the Newsette costs approximately $1,000 and added to the services of
reproducing bulletins and newsletters for other organizations totals about $5,000 a
year.
Mayor Greene asked Ms. Fallon to keep in touch with Mr. Neavill and assured her
that attempts will be made to obtain volunteers to work on the Newsette.
There being no objections, the Mayor so ordered that the Minutes of the Regular
Council Meeting of July 11, 1978, be approved as amended.
Mr. Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, feels the County and City officials have
not listened to the voters on Proposition 13.
ORDINANCES
ORDINANCE NO. 551
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTIONS 4606.3 AND 4606 6 OF THE DOWNEY
MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH SAID SECTIONS RELATE TO NOISE
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Swearingen to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Ordinance No. 551.
AYES: 3 Council Members- Jackman, Mackaig, Swearingen
NOES; 2 Council Members: Miller, Greene
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -7-
ORDINANCE NO. 552
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTIONS 8209, 8210, 8211, 8213, 8408, 8502
AND 8705 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH SECTIONS
RELATE TO PERMIT FEES
The Ordinance 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
the following vote to adopt Ordinance No, 552.
Councilman Swearingen requested the Ordinance be referred to the Building Appeals
Board for more information. He said he does not know how this compares to other cities.
Mr. Thompson stated many cities are in the process of making increases in build-
ing permit fees to attempt to offset costs of building inspections.
Mr. Stup advised a comparison was made with many other areas, and the new fees
are in line with the County. The new Ordinance will also provide for more efficiency
by the City. He said in his discussion with members of the Building Appeals Board
regarding the Board's purpose, none of the members voiced any comment against the
proposed Ordinance. He also indicated he had met with various individuals and groups
to discuss the Ordinance, and no objections were stated.
Mr. Newton explained the Building Appeals Board is a technical review agency.
Councilman Mackaig stated he received questions concerning the residential drive-
way apron inspection fee of $15.
Mr. Spindel replied this is being reviewed, and if there are any inequities in
the fee it will be brought back to the Council,
Councilman Miller suggested that when the Council Members receive complaints
they should write a letter so the other members are also aware of the complaint.
AYES. 5 Council Members. Jackman, Miller, Mackaig, Swearingen, Greene
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 3581
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO ESTABLISH AN UNDERGROUND
UTILITY DISTRICT ALONG FIFTH STREET BETWEEN BROOKSHIRE
AVENUE AND DOWNEY AVENUE AND CAUSING ALL SPECIFIED
UTILITIES THEREIN TO BE RELOCATED UNDERGROUND (DISTRICT
N0, 10)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Swearingen to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No. 3581,
RESOLUTION NO. 3582
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REQUESTING AN ALLOCATION OF COUNTY AID TO CITIES FUNDS
FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF SELECT SYSTEM STREETS
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. 3582.
RESOLUTION NO. 3583
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
URGING PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION APPROVAL OF THE POINT
CONCEPTION LNG TERMINAL SITE
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Miller to waive further reading.
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -8-
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Miller, and passed by
the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3583.
Mayor Greene indicated he does not feel he can vote on this.
Councilman Miller concurred and suggested the Council consider rescinding its
motion to adopt.
The other Council Members did not concur.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Jackman, Mackaig, Swearingen
ABSTAIN: 2 Council Members: Miller, Greene
CASH CONTRACTS
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and passed
by unanimous vote to authorize the removal of property from action in Eminent Domain
on S.S. Project #328, Fifth Street Widening, Downey to Brookshire - Right -of -Way
Acquisition 4366, and approve for acquisition by negotiation (Account #26-1-6191).
MISCELLANEOUS COUNCIL ACTIONS
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and passed
by unanimous vote to authorize the Department of Public Works to do Special Lot Clean-
ing on Property at 7235 Rio Flora Place at an estimated cost of $500.
It was so ordered by the Mayor that a hearing on Adoption of an Ordinance
relative to the Control of Adult Businesses be set for 7:30 p.m., August 8, 1978, in
the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall.
It was moved by Councilman Miller, seconded by Mayor Greene, and so ordered to
set a hearing on Appeal„ Zone Variance No. 29, 7944-46 Third Street, for 7:30 p.m.,
August 8, 1978, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and passed
by unanimous vote to approve the request from CALTRANS to close the I-105 Freeway
Downey Field Office, with the condition that the office be reopened at such time as
the injunction is lifted and property acquisition is started again.
It was so ordered by the Mayor to approve the Appointment of Mr. Leslie R. Keays
to the Civil Defense & Disaster Council.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Mr. Thompson said he will prepare answers as requested concerning the Animal
Control Fees for Fiscal Year 1978-79. This will be placed on the Agenda for the next
Council Meeting.
LONi'"
Councilman Swearingen commented on a request from Mrs. Opal Henn regarding Use
of the Downey Theatre for the Downey Rose Float Pageants.
Mr. Thompson indicated this should be a matter of Council policy because the
Budget was set up to provide for charging for use of the Theatre. He said it is his
understanding the Theatre is to be on a paying basis, but it would be up to the Council
if it wishes to make an exception.
Councilman Mackaig inquired about the rental fee for the Theatre.
Mr. Neavill replied the Recreation & Community Services Commission will be making
recommendations to the Council regarding a revised general rate for the Theatre --the
present commercial rate is $750 and non-commercial is $500.
At 12:50 a.m., the meeting was adjourned to 7:00 p.m., August 1, 1978, in the
Downey Community Theatre, for joint meeting with the Community Development Commission.
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk- reasurer
L.
William L. Greene, Mayor
Council Minutes 7/25/78 -9-