HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-08-14-79-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY-
OF TEE CITY OF DOW=
AUGUST 14, 1979
T A B L E O F M I is U T E A C T I O N S
SUBJECT: ACTIC": PAGE YC.
Minutes: Reg. Mtc,., July 24, 1979;
Spec. Mtg., July 30, 197,9 Approved 1
Denial of Legal Claims: Ref. #427 & 431 An_proved 1
S.S. Proj. #339, _slur _ S::a1, FY 1 7.-79:
Accept imprvmts. (A/C #10-45426 & 26-16207, Ar-nrc�.ed 1
CC #448, Reconst. of Allevs: Amend 1979-8C
Budget allowing substitution of alley t•.',%o
Smallwood bet. 2nd & 3rd Sts. for alley_
E/o LaReina bet. 5th & 6th Sts:
General warrants: 41,7099 - 177515
#2C59�_ - 20501? nc_ _ved 1
Allow occasional recreational vchi-le
access rights to Burns from 11401 proles Approved 1
Doar.ev Chamber of Commerce Quarterly
Activity Report 4/1-6/30/79 Received & filed 1
Rent Control Appeals Board -No action; Bd. Realtors to discuss
possibility of working with tenant
grow_ s 3
Ordinance #603, Apprvg. & Adopting a
Redevelopment Plan Amndmt. for Dosmey
Redevelopment Proj. Area as Official
Redevelopment Plan for such Proj. Area Adcpted 3
Resolution Auth.
Time Limit
Parking & No
Stopping Restr.
or. Firestone
B1. &
Failed; no objection. to Traffic
Rescinding Res.
4779, 1190,
1205, 1305,
Com^;. coming back w/i-1/2 hr.
1768, 1861, 2234, 2274, 2308
& 3393
parking restr. 4
Request for hearing on Appeal, Zone
Variance #85, 8200 Firestone Bl. Set for 9/26/79 4, 5
Resolution #3711, 2-hr. Prkq. Restr.
Weekdays on B/s Alameda St. bet. T_akcwoed
& Patton. & B/s Marbel N.ly. 350' from
Alameda & rescind all prior Resols. Adopted $
Resolution #3712, Apprvg. Final Parcel
Map #11834 (Planett N/e Orange) Adopted 5
Parcel Map #11834, Planett N/o Crance:
Set park fee Approved 5
Resolution #3713, Est. 4th Water Service
Zone for Separate SSatcr Rates Adopted 5
Resolution #3714, Apprvga Appl. for Proj.
Subgrart under Title III of Older Americans
Act (Apollo Park Neighborhood Center) Adopted 6
Appoint Planning Com.. as interim Design
Review Bd. for 120 days & have Citv
Attorney prepare Ordinance incorperatin�
both Bldg. Appeals Bd. & Design Review
Bd. into one Approved 6
Suppl. allocation fror.. General Fund for
providing recreation programs to middle &
high school youth of cormu:iity Failed 7
Page 1 of 2
COUNCIL MINUTES, AUGUST 14, 1979
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT: ACTION: PAGE NO.
Agmt. w/Berryman & Stephenson, Inc., for
design & const. plans for Wilderness &
Independence Parks Approved 7
Addendum to Lease Agmt. bet. City & Downey
Theatre Foundation & change name of
"Foundation" to "Association" Approved 7'
Agmt. w/County re City's participation in
Coordinated Paramedic Communications System ._--
& appl. for reimbursement under Calif.
State Grant Program Approved 7
Hearing on revocation of permit to solicit
in City Set for 8/28/79 7
1979-80 City Attorney's Retainer Fee:
Auth. $2,352 per mo. w/City Attorney paying
his PERS contribution Approved 8
Bid proposals received for Banking Services: Failed; study session set for
By resol. transfer all City funds out of 4pm, 9/5/79, for mtg. w/City Mgr.,
Bank of America & deposit into local bank Mr. Wanamaker, & Mr. Leege re
w/home office in Downey banking services 8
I-105 Freeway: Staff to set time & date
f/meeting w/Corridor Cities to discuss '
latest Order of Judge Pregerson 8
Zoning Ordinance: Planning to submit
revision permitting posting of notices in
lieu of mailing notices 91
Meeting bet. Downey Comm. Hospital & City -
Council to discuss Hospital Budget 79-80 Mayor to schedule meeting 9
Discussion re fence around well site on
Rundell & Julius 9
Mr. John Byork to serve as SCAG rep. on
I-105 Fwy. No objections 9
Mayor to circulate letter supporting
Cn. Jackman as Corridor Cities appointee Council concurred 9
Req. for Council support of Calif. legis.
overriding Governor Veto of SB 190, Budget Letters to be prepared for
Bill re Licensing of Engrs. in Calif. Mayor's signature 9
Executive session for update report on
Downey Museum of Art 9
Terminate Agmt. w/Downey Museum of Art Approved 1 9
Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUGUST 14, 1979
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7.30 p.m.,
August 14, 1979, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hallo Mayor Kenneth U.
Miller presiding,
PRESENT. Council Members
Milton R. Mackaig
Theodore H. Jackman Mayor Pro Tem
Lyell W. Swearingen
William L. Greene
Kenneth J. Miller Mayor
ALSO PRESENT. John H. Saunders, Acting City Manager
Leland C. Dolley, Acting City Attorney
Ervin Spindel, Director of Community Development
Ronald W. Leege, 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
Thomas Tincher, Housing & Redevelopment Coordinator
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
The Invocation was delivered by Councilman Jackman, The Flag Salute was led
by Councilman Greene.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and so
ordered to approve the Consent Calendar.
Minutes. Regular Meeting, July 24, 1979, Special Meeting, July 30, 1979.
Denial of
Ref. #427
S.S. Project #339, Slurry Seal, Fiscal Year 1978-79. Accept improvements
constructed (Account #10-45428; #26-16207).
Cash Contract #448, Reconstruction of Alleys Amend 1979-80 Budget by allow-
ing a substitution of alley west of Smallwood between 2nd and 3rd Streets for
alley east of LaReina between 5th and 6th Streets,
General Warrants #177099 - 177515; #205990 - 2060192 $1,317,617.60.
Allow occasional recreational vehicle access rights to Burns Avenue from
11401 Pruess Avenue.
Downey Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Activity Report for April 1 - June 30,
1979.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (Items not on Agenda)
Noting the number of people present in the audience who may wish to speak re-
garding rent control, Mayor Miller then asked that the proponents in favor of rent
control or a mediation board speak first, with the opponents speaking second. He
asked for the City Manager's Report on this matter,
Mr. Saunders commented on the log the City has kept on the number of calls
received pertaining to excessive rents. He said survey forms were subsequently
handed out to obtain more detailed information, 25 of which were filled out and eight
calls have been received. He outlined three major objectives recommended by staff,
which could be fulfilled by the establishment of an appeals board consisting of five
members, all to be appointed by the Council, Mr, Saunders stated it is further
recommended that three of the members consist of a representative of the landlord's
association, a representative of the renter's association, and one senior citizen
to be nominated by those respective groups for Council appointment, and that the
other two members be citizens who are not landlords and have resided a minimum of
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -1-
seven years in the City. He cited criteria for hearing complaints and remarked on
the duties of the appeal board fcr conducting hearings on grievances, making
recommendations for possible remedy, and submitting public reports and recommenda-
tions back to Council, Mr. Saunders stated it is further recommended the board be
established by ordinance at the earliest possible time with a clause that the board
will be discontinued no later than December 31, 1981, unless renewed by the Council
prior to that time.
Sharon Hawkins, 8101 Leeds Street, commented on her previous request for the
Council to establish a board to help tenants with problems such as health and safety
code violations, fair housing for children, rent gouging, and unjust evictions. Ms.
Hawkins cited the problems confronting renters and pointed out many are afraid to
speak out for their rights because they fear eviction, She mentioned she is speak-
ing on behalf of the Downey Citizens for Fair Housing,
Linda Presta, 8102 Crange Avenue, said she has received a 30-day notice to move"
and requested the Council to possibly deal with her landlord on a one-to-one basis
to obtain more time for her to find another place to live.
Mr, Richard Crowe, 9117 Hasty Avenue, commented homeowners received benefits
from Proposition 13 but the renters did not. He cited a two percent vacancy factor
throughout the State, which he said has created a crisis situation. He called for
moderate rent control in the City of Downey.
Mr. James Kris, 10253 Hopeland Avenue, an apartment owner and real estate
appraiser, concurred with the vacancy factor and indicated he feels there is less
rent gouging in Downey than in the poorer sectors of the State. He commented on
the financial burden facing landlords because of declining bank loans and money
needed for maintaining apartments. He does not favor rent control.
Mr. Armond Sarcomo, 7350 Florence Avenue, read from newspaper publications on
the subject of rent control and mentioned he lived under restrictive rent control
in New York City, He said something needs to be done, whereby if a board is
established, it will be able to solve tenant, landlord, and community problems,
Mr. Sarcomo indicated that in conducting a survey of 19 apartment buildings in the
four Council districts he discovered there has been an average 18 percent increase
in rents within the last few months,
Mr. Gene Zechmeister, Executive Vice President of Apartment Association of
California Southern Cities, spoke against rent control and indicated the City of
Los Angeles' proposal to find more affordable housing for low income families will
not be met because of rent control within its city, Mr. Zechmeister recommended
the City Council establish a mediation board to settle differences with tenants in
the area,, but suggested the board be larger in order to cover all of the problems
it will be faced with, and he offered his assistance to this matter.
Mr, Ernie Briggs, 7837 Bairnsdale Street, President of the Downey Board of
Realtors, stated for the record the Board of Realtors' position is that it is
unilaterally opposed to rent control in any form, and he extended the Board's
request that the Council not vote for a mediation panel until the Board has had an
opportunity to study the proposal,
Mr, James Santangelo, 8426 Dacosta Street, stated that as a realtor, it is his
opinion the landlord's rents are far lower than the point he could raise them to.
Also, he said the renter is generally paying less monthly rent than the homeowner
who is purchasing his home, but that they have similar incomes,
Mr. Larry Hoag, 7730 Fourth Place, spoke against rent control and asked the
Council for a "no', vote on the appeal board, He said if the Council does not vote
no, he would ask that this matter be postponed so a proposal can be properly
structured and then studied,
Mr. Lynn Wessel, legislative advocate for the Los Angeles County Boards of
Real Estate, commented on mediation boards set up in West Covina and the discovery'___,
that most rental complaints were not related to gouging but to maintenance, He
pointed out that where mediation boards have been set up in other cities they have
never had force of law,
Grace Ashilian, 8031: Cole Street, said she is a Downey realtor specializing
in apartment houses, and she is also a tenant, She compared the cost of her monthly
rent to what it would cost her if she were purchasing a home, and she also indicated
her rent is approximately $50 a month low. She responded to comments of other
speakers, pointing out many of her clients maintain lower rent to keep their tenants,
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -2-
,`Gam
Mr, William Greene, 1C225 Chaney Avenue, concurred with ccmments made in oppo-
siticn to rent control and a mediation board. He offered as an example his
experience as a landlord in Laguna Beach, He voiced his opposition and proposed
Downey be cautious and take its time concerning a mediation board,
Mr, Willis Green,, 7527 Cleargrcvs Drive, said he purchased a home to rent at
$600 per month and received only one call to his advertisement, He does not see
where renters are being abused,
Mr, Jack Robinson, 8615 Florence Avenue, said he and his partner have operated
apartments in the City since 1960, and over that period of time his increases in
rent have not exceeded one-half the cost of living increases for the Los Angeles
basin, He stated his opposition to rent control and added that rent control is net
equitable, nor is it the solution,
Mr, Martin Burley, 8621 Birchbard, requested the Council to not impose any
government controls and to let free enterprise work,
Mr. Hoag mentioned that only 25 out of ll,00o apartment units in the City have
filled out forms provided by the City,
Mr. Kris suggested that if any board is to be established, that it should have
objective information from outside sources having nothing to do with Downey, and
that there be two -to -five unbiased appraisal firms comparing Downey°s rents with
other cities in Southern California,
Councilman Mackaig voiced his opposition to any rent control or abitration board,
Councilman Jackman said he has received only two calls since this has been
publicized, and unless there is a real ground swell showing there is a problem, he
does not feel the Council should do anything. He does not feel a mediation board
as proposed would have any value,
Councilman Swearingen is also opposed to rent control and any review board,
Councilman Greene is against rent control and mentioned he received approxi-
mately five letters from one management company,
Mayor Miller mentioned he has always been opposed to any controls of the free
enterprise _system and asked if the Downey Board of Realtors would be interested in
working with tenants to analyze their problems to see if "there is rent gouging,
Mr. Briggs replied he feels the Board would be willing to do this, but he would
first have to get the membership's approval,
Mayor Miller then inquired about the authority under which a City could
establish rent control,
Mr. Dolley replied it is his view that before a city can enact rent control
there must be a basic need for it, and this is being tested in a number of cases now
pending in the courts,
Mr. Briggs informed the Council he feels the Apartment Association would be in
a better position to work with the tenants and analyze their problems. In response
to Mayor Miller°s suggestion that perhaps the Board of Realtors, the Apartment House
Association, and the tenants could work together, Mr. Briggs said he will discuss
this with the Board's membership,
Mayor Miller declared a recess from 9-25 p.m. to 9 35 p.m. The meeting resumed
with all Council Members present,
ORDINANCES
ORDINANCE NO, 603
AN ORDINANCE OF THE C0UNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING
AND ADOPTING A REDEVELOPMENT PLAN AMENDMENT" FOR THE DOWNEY
REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA AS THE OFFICIAL REDEVELOPMENT
PLAN FOR SUCH PROJECT AREA
The Ordinance was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Mackaig to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and passed
by unanimous vote to adopt Ordinance No, 603,
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -3-
sae
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO,
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AUTHORIZING TIME LIMIT PARKING AND NO STOPPING RESTRIC-
TIONS ALONG FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND RESCINDING PRIOR
RESOLUTION NUMBERS 779, 1190, 1205, 1306,, 1768, 1861,
2234, 2274, 2308 AND 3393
The Resolution was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Jackman
and seconded by Councilman Greene to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Councilman Mackaig to adopi
the Resolution,
Mr. Bob Kiskadden, 7447 Ciro Street, said the 3300 to 6,00 p.m. parking _-
restriction will have an extreme effect on the four businesses located on the south-
west corner of Paramount and Firestone, which he said cuts between 25 and 30 percent
out of the business day in terms of parking access, Mr. Kiskadden recommended the
north side of Firestone be posted from 6s00 to 8,00 a.m. because most businesses are
not open before 8:00, and that all restrictions on the south side be eliminated
until a coordinated plan can be worked cut with the Traffic Committee.
Mr, Spindel explained the Traffic Committee went over this matter very
thoroughly and that Mr. Kiskadden was the only objection. During discussion, Mr.
Spindel explained the proposal of Caltrans to install a new signal coordination
system, restriping, and narrowing the island to make three lanes during peak hours
for each direction on Firestone in order to get a much better traffic flow and
safer operation on Firestone,
Mr, Kiskadden stated he would not object to a 1-1/2 hour restriction during
the critical period.
Mr, James Santangelo, 8426 Dacosta, commented on the traffic flow at his former
business location on Firestone and Woodruff which, he said, speeded up when the no
parking restriction was imposed.
AYES: 2 Council Members, Mackaig, Miller
NOES: 3 Council Members, Jackman, Swearingen, Greene
Failed,
There were no objections to the Traffic Committee studying and coming back
with a 1-1/2 hour parking restriction.
Request for hearing on Appeal, Zone Variance #85, 8200 Firestone Boulevard
Mr, Jack Robinson, 8615 Florence Avenue, discussed this case and noted the
applicant has already appeared before the Planning Commission and City Council in
attempting to seek approval of a mounted wall sign. He said the applicant's letter
of appeal does not meet code requirements and he requested it be denied, Mr.
Robinson stated if the Council does set it for hearing, he would request it not be
set for August 28th since he cannot be present at that time.
Councilman Jackman indicated he would like to set a hearing, but he would re-
quest it be set for the second meeting in September since he will not be present
for the first meeting in September.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Mayor Miller to set a
hearing on Appeal to Zone Variance #85 for 7:30 p.m., September 25, 1979.
It was noted the League of California Cities meeting will be in session on
September 25th but should be concluded that day,
The City Attorney was questioned about denying the applicant's request on a
technicality. Action was held pending Mr. Dolley°s review of the City°s Code,
(See later motion, page 5.)
RESOLUTION NOa 3711
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ESTABLISHING A
TWO-HOUR PARKING RESTRICTION WEEKDAYS ALONG BOTH
SIDES OF ALAMEDA STREET BETWEEN LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD
AND PATTON ROAD AND ON BOTH SIDES OF MARBEL AVENUE
NORTHERLY 350 FEET FROM ALAMEDA STREET, AND RESCIND-
ING ALL PRIOR RESOLUTIONS WITHIN THESE LIMITS
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -4-
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Greens and
seconded by Councilman Mackaig to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and passed
by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No, 3711,
RESOLUTION NO, 3712
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING FINAL PARCEL MAP NO, 11834 (PLANETT AVENUE
NORTH OF ORANGE STREET)
The Resolution was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Greene and
seconded by Councilman Jackman to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and passed
by unanimous vote to adopt Resolution No, 37120
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and passed
by unanimous vote to set the park fee at $1,76 per square foot, or $943.36 total,
on Parcel Map #11834, Planett Avenue N/o Orange Street,
RESOLUTION NO. 3713
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING A FOURTH (4th) WATER SERVICE ZONE FOR
SEPARATE WATER RATES
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Greene and
seconded by Councilman Jackman to waive further reading,
It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by the following vote to adopt Resolution No. 3713,
Questions were raised regarding having another water rate in Downey.
Mr, Spindel explained the reason is that Downey is in the process of annexing
a water connection from the City of Paramount, and it is felt by staff and the
Water Board that annexing this area and applying an increase in the rate would
create a storm of protests from the people involved. He said staff is working on
equalizing the rates, and the first phase will be presented to the Water Board
tomorrow evening. He responded to further questions regarding the purchase of the
water system,
Councilman Jackman feels this should be set at the Park Water Rate and that
the City°s rates should be coordinated as soon as possible,
Mr. Spindel noted.as soon as this purchase is completed, work will begin in
the triangle area to consolidate that into the Downey system,
Councilman Mackaig is opposed because of all the different rates, and he
wants them equalized for everyone in the City.
Further discussion ensued,
AYES: 3 Council Members; Swearingen, Greene, Miller
NOES: 2 Council Membersa Mackaig, Jackman
Request for hearing on Appeal, Zone Variance n85, 8200 Firestone Boulevard
(continued from page 4,)
Mr, Dolley indicated he has reviewed the City°s Code, which does require the
appeal letter set forth where the Planning Commission erred in its findings, He
said although the Council could deny the applicant's request on that basis, he
would recommend the Council accept the appeal letter.
Because of the annual League of California Cities meeting scheduled for
September, the Council Meeting of September 25, 1979, was set for September 26th,
It was then moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and
so ordered to set a hearing on Appeal, Zone Variance n85, for 7230 p.m., September
26, 1979, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall,
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -5-
RESOLUTION NO. 3714
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR PROJECT SUBGRANT UNDER
TITLE III OF THE OLDER AMERICANS ACT
The Resolution was read by title only, It was moved by Councilman Swearingen
and seconded by Mayor Miller to waive further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Swearingen, seconded by Councilman Greene, and
passed by the following vote to adopt Resolution Noo 3714.
Mr. Neavill explained the intent would be to install a new automatic sprinkles
system at Apollo Park Neighborhood Center, which would be more economical and
labor saving.
AYES. 5 Council Members. Mackaig, Jackman, Swearingen, Greene, Miller
MISCELLANEOUS ACTIONS
It was moved by Councilman Greene and seconded by Councilman Swearingen to
appoint the Planning Commission as the interim Design Review Board for a period
not to exceed 60 days.
It was suggested the Building Appeals Board serve as the Design Review Board.
Mr. Goggin pointed out the Building Appeals Board deals more with materials,
whereas design review would apply to aesthetics. He did say the Building Appeals
Board is not very busy, but the Design Review Board will be,
ouncilman Jackman feels the appointees on the Building Appeals Board would be
qualified to serve on the Design Review Board.
Mr, Goggin explained the Planning Commission has been serving as the Design
Review Board, and in order for the Commission to continue, Council approval is
needed.
Mr. Dolley advised that the Building Appeals Board can serve as the Design
Review Board if the Council changes the Ordinance,
Councilman Mackaig suggested amending the motion to appoint the Planning
Commission for four months instead of 60 days so the City Attorney can prepare the
necessary Ordinance,
Councilman Greene feels there should be some compensation for the Board,
The motion and second were withdrawn.
It was moved by Councilman Mackaig, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by the following vote to appoint the Planning Commission as the interim Design
Review Board for a period of 120 days, and effective immediately have the City
Attorney prepare an Ordinance incorporating both Boards into one,
Mr. Stun suggested the Council may want to review the makeup of the Board and
add two members.
Mr. Goggin explained when the Building Appeals Board was established the
membership was set at three, and the members were satisfied with that number.
AYES. 5 Council Membersa Mackaig, Jackman, Swearingen, Greene, Miller
It was moved by Councilman Greene and seconded by Mayor Miller to approve
supplemental allocation of $12,000 from the City General Fund to account #10-4330,'
for the purpose of providing recreation programs to the middle and high school
youth of the community.
Responding to questions, Mr. Neavill explained the City/School Recreation
Committee discussed this but could not finalize it sufficiently in time for the
City's budget deadline. He said the Committee and the Recreation & Community
Services Commission feel this is a significant program as a budget supplement. He
was asked if the School District is putting anything into this program, and he re-
plied the School District has not been approached formally,
Councilmen Jackman and Mackaig feel this should wait until next budget
session and start the program next summer,
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -6-
-- 1
Mr. Neavill pointed out the School District did indi-sate willingness for use
of its facilities, and that is part of this plan.
Mr. Mike Huggins, Chairman of the Recreation & Community Services Commission,
gave the background concerning a study conducted, with the result that the community
is very void in providing any type services for the pre -teen and teenage youth. He
pointed out the programs as designed were programs the teens said they would be
interested in during their leisure,
Councilman Greene said he was involved in some of the discussions but was
under the impression this would be shared with the School District.
AYES: 1 Council Member. Miller
NOES- 4 Council Members; Mackaig, Jackman, Swearingen, Greene.
Failed.
with Berrvman and
glans for Wild(
Parks
design and
Referring to the Councils question last meeting as to why the lowest propo-
sal was not accepted, Mr. Neavill explained qualifications of a firm are usually
the criteria for selecting architects or consultants,, rather than the cost, He
pointed out that one of the most significant factors involved in the selection of
Berryman and Stephenson was the firm's ability to provide almost all construction
inspection services, which was included in their bid figure, whereas other firms
did not.
Mr. Spindel stated that on the advice of the City Attorney concerning the
selection of Berryman and Stephenson, Inc., as consultants for the Wilderness and
Independence Parks improvements, he had no part in the plans, memoranda, or speci-
fications for these projects, did not participate in the interviews, and did not
have anything to do with the recommendation. for this firm°s selection. He also
said he will not participate in the administration or supervision of this program.
This statement, he'indicated, is made since after his retirement from the City in
November of this year he will become associated with this firm, Mr. Spindel said
he has been advised by the City Attorney that no conflict exists based on this
statement.
Mr, Dolley mentioned he has discussed this with Mr. Sorensen, and it is also
his opinion that no conflict of interest under Proposition 9 exists.
Mr. Neavill advised that per the City Attorney°s suggestion, or. page 4 of the
Agreement, Paragraph No, 7, second line, the words "Director of Community Develop-
ment" should be changed to "City Manager or his authorized representative."
The Council Members expressed the feeling that if "there is any question as to
priority, Independence Park should have the first priority on this project.
It was moved by Councilman Greene, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by the following vote to approve the selection of Berryman and Stephenson, Inc.,
as Consultant -Engineers for design and construction plans for Wilderness and
Independence Parks,
AYES. 3 Council Members. Jackman, Greene, Miller
NOES: 2 Council Members. Mackaig, Swearingen
It was moved by Councilman Jackman,seconded by Councilman Mackaig, and passed
by unanimous vote to approve an Addendum to Lease Agreement between the City and
the Downey Theatre Foundation, Inc., and change the name "Foundation to
"Association."
it was moved by Councilman Mackaig, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed
by unanimous vote to approve an Agreement with the County of Los Angeles concerning
the City's participation in Coordinated Paramedic Communications System and appli-
cation for reimbursement in the amount of $2,000 under a California State Grant
Program.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and so
ordered to set a hearing on Revocation of Permit to Solicit within the City of
Downey, for 7:30 p.m., August 28, 1979, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City
Hail.
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -7-
� 402,
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Swearingen, and
passed by the following vote to authorize $2,,352 per month for the 1979-80 City
Attorney's Retainer Fee, with the City Attorney paying his own. PERS contribution.
Mr. Saunders said this may have to be set up where the City Attorney would pay
the City the amount of money and the City would then pay PERS.
Councilman Greene said before paying an increase he would rather direct the
City Manager to pursue finding a City prosecutor to handle more and more situations
that are occuring.
Mr. Saunders pointed out this request does not increase the amount of money
the City would be paying the City Attorney on a yearly basis but would be providing
a more clear delineation of the hours and services provided.
AYES- 3 Council Members° Jackman, Swearingen, Greene
NOES: 2 Council Members. Mackaig, Miller
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
Mr. Saunders commented on�the City Manager's Report concerning an evaluation
of bid proposals received for Banking Services and a request of one of the banks
for a delay on this matter until a meeting can be held with the City Manager, He
said the City Manager has also submitted a policy for selection of an official
depository for City Funds,
Councilman Greene asked that the Council be invited to the meeting between the
City Manager and Mr. Wanamaker, as well as the Finance Director, that this can be
settled once and for all,
Councilman Mackaig requested the Council take action on this tonight. He said
he has received some information, and he is.ready to discuss this and vote on it.
Mayor Miller and Councilman Greene each requested copies of the information
referred to.by Councilman Mackaig.
It was moved by Councilman Mackaig and seconded by Councilman Swearingen than
the Council by resolution transfer all of the City Funds out of Bank of America an,,
deposit them into a local bank whose home office is in Downey, forthwith.
Councilman Mackaig asked how many City bank accounts are at Bank of America
and whether the eight banking services requested by the City are now being provided
by Bank of America.
Mr. Leege replied the City has one account at Bank of America, and the eight
services requested are not currently provided,
Councilman Mackaig said on July 3rd he received a letter from Mro Wanamaker,
President of Bank of Downey, which he would be happy to read to the Council. He
was asked if he had shared the letter with anyone else, and his response was that
he had shared the letter with Councilmen Jackman and Swearingen.
Mayor Miller indicated he was offended, in that it would appear Councilman
Mackaig is attempting to get three votes on the Council to go along with him by
sharing his information,
Councilman Jackman said he would like to take this under submission in order
to study it properly and have the City Manager meet with Mr, Wanamaker.
AYES: 2 Council Members- Mackaig, Swearingen
ABSTAIN. 3 Council Members- Jackman, Greene, Miller
Failed.
A study session was set for 4-00 p.m., September 5, 1979, for a meeting with
the City Manager, Mr, Wanamaker, and Mr. Leege concerning Banking Services,
STAFF REPORTS
Mr. Spindel said he has received from the City Attorney the latest Order of
Judge Pregerson concerning the I-105 Freeway, copies of which he will distribute
to Council. He indicated that after the Corridor Cities have reviewed this, another
meeting will probably have to be held to decide whether or not to instruct the City
Attorney to sign the Order.
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -8-
Councilman Jackman suggested staff be d=racred to ca-i a meeting of the
Corridor Cities and that the meeting be held pr:cr to his :aaation begirnjng
September 8th, He mentioned there are acme cbjecticnable items in the Agreement.
Mr, Spindel stated there was an insertion in the Order that applicable codes
and building and zoning codes will be complied with.
Mr. Goggin commented on the Zoning Ordinance provision which requires that
everyone within 500 feet of a proposed zone change must be notified, and in the
case of Florence Avenue the coat was $750. He said it waa originally proposed
that staff be allowed to post notices as is applicable in assessment districts,
and he asked if the Council would agree to changing the ordinance so that posting
property would be permitted, although property owners affected would still be
notified by certified mail, No objections were stated,
Mr. Neavill said the City Manager and City Attcrne7 have raccatsnended the
Council meet in executive session to hear an updated report on the Downey Museum
of Art, and it is also requested that Mro Art Johnson, a member of the Recreaticr
and Community Services Commission, be present,
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Councilman Mackaig inquired about setting up a meeting between the Downey
Community Hospital and City Council to discuss the Hospital Budget for 1979-80,
with the attorneys for both the City and Hospital being present,
Mayor Miller will arrange a time and date for the meeting,
Councilman Swearingen mentioned he has been contacted several "times by a
citizen complaining about the unsatisfactory condition of prcper�y and a fence
surrounding a well site on Rundell and Julius, He was under the impression this
was being taken care of, and he has been contacted again that the neighborhood is
dissatisfied with the fence being constructed. He asked that a hard lock be given
to constructing a concrete wall around the well site,
Mr. Spindel explained the project is not completed as yet, and he reviewed the
work that has been done to date to correct the situation. He pointed out the
priorities are fixing leaks in that area, Mr. Spindel indicated there are no funds
in the Water Fund Budget for building a concrete wall, and it would require Council
approval,
Mayor Miller mentioned he has been contacted regarding the Council's feeling
on having Mr, John Byork, who has been active on the 1-105 Freeway matter, serve
as the SCAG representative where the Corridor Cities would make recommendations,
Mr. Saunders said SCAG is going to set up a committee to review some of the
housing policies, and in order for Downey to have a voice on that committee it
should be a member of SCAG.
There were no objections to Mr. Byork being the SCAG representative
Mayor Miller requested the Councils permission to circulate a letter support-
ing Councilman Jackman as the Corridor Cities appointee, The Council concurred,
Mr, Joel Lubin, 7820 Allengrove, Chairman of the Public Affairs Committee of
Los Angeles Council of Engineers and Scientists, requested the Council to support
the California Legislature overriding the Governor's veto of items 97 and 97.1 of
Senate Bill 190, the Budget Bill regarding Licensing of Engineers in California,
Mayor Miller asked Mr. Lubin to meet with John Saunders to prepare the neces-
sary letters for his signature,
Mayor Miller recessed the meeting to executive session for an updated report
on the Downey Museum of Art. The meeting resumed at 12229 a.m., with all Council
Members present, (The executive session commenced at 12:07 a.m.)
It was announced that in executive session the Council voted unanimously to
terminate the Agreement with the Downey Museum of Art,
At 1.2s30 a.m., August 15, 1979, the meeting was ad;ourned,
Robert L. Shand,, CYry Clerk -Treasurer Kenneth J. Miltt-r/ Mayor
Council Minutes 8/14/79 -9-