HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-06-28-83-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JUNE 28, 1983
T A B L E O F M I N U T E A C TI 0 N S
SUBJECT ACTION
Presentation to Chief Don Davis for compl.
25 yrs. service to Fire Dept.
Ord. amending Zoning Map re Zone Change
Case #193 (11751 Downey Av.) Introduced
Res. #4264, amending portion of General
Plan of Land Use Map Adopted
Res. #4265, Confirming 1983-84 Fiscal Year
Assmt. for Ltg. Maint. Dist. AD 121 Adopted'
Appeal, Zone Variance #213, 12103 Downey Av. Hearing cont'd. to August 23, 1983
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar
Minutes: Adj. Reg. Mtg., June 6, 1983; &
Reg. Mtg., June 14, 1983 Approved
Corres. from Downey Sign & Ltg. re sugg.
to better enhance Downey Sign Codes Referred to staff
Corres. from State Senator Paul Carpenter
re Downey's opposition to SB 142 re
mandated payment for sign removal Filed
Corres. from Cerritos Community College
Dist. re Apprec. for Downey's support re
Consortium for SE County Services
Delivery Area Filed
Legal Claims for Rejection: Ref. #620 & 625 Approved
General Warrants: #211012 - 211035
#311325 - 311615 Approved
Appeal, Zone Variance #266, 8026 Stewart &
Gray Rd. Hearing set for July 26, 1983
Status Report: Five -City Cable TV System 'Filed
U.S. Dept. HUD: Intensive Monitoring Report
re Comm. Dev. Block Grant Program Filed
David Ray: Comments re Exhibit "E" missing
from Sample Ballot on Hospital Issue &
Spanish language printed on ballot creating Referred to the City Clerk &
some confusion City Attorney
Res. #4266, Apprvg. & Adopting Annual
Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year
Res. establishing Three Water Service for
Separate Water Rates & Rescinding Res.
#4114
Presentation - Keep Downey Beautiful
Request of Zeke Avila & Sons to increase
Rio Hondo Golf Course Maint. Contract by
five percent from $260,000 to $273,000:
Delay action to next regular meeting & ask
staff to come back w/evaluation on where
Golf Course stands financially
Adopted'
Carried over to next meeting
for a full Council
Approved
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COUNCIL MINUTES, JUNE 28, 1983
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
CC #485, Civic Center Proj.- Change Order 9 Approved 7
CC #491, Library Proj. - Change Orders 6 & 7 Approved 8
Report on Santa Ana Freeway/Manzanar
Pedestrian Crossing: Completely delete any
future plans for overcrossing from City's Approved; staff to report back
immediate & future budgets on closing tunnel 8
Loan in amount of $500,OOO to Community
Dev. Comm. Authorized 9
Contracts for Vehicle Towing & Storage
Services: Contracts w/Doug's Tug, Inc., &
United Towing Service, Inc., as amended
by City Attorney Approved 9
Excess Liability Insurance: Lower City's
self -insured retention to $500,000 &
maintain liability fund reserve @ $1 million Approved 9
City Manager report on review of Civic
Center area for locating Downey Courthouse 9
Redevelopment Proj. Amndmt. #3: City Mgr.
comments on staff report altering
recommendation on conforming residential
uses; Another report will be forthcoming
before 7/5 mtg.; & Proj. Area Comm. voted
to change its recommendation, which will
be subm. to Council 9
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack: Ordinance control-
ling Newstands Referred to staff & City Attorney 9
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack req. Council &
City Atty. further consideration re
effectiveness of lobbyist
Closed session re personnel & pending
litigation
Appointment of Jim Cutts as Director of
Community Development
Res. #4267, Int. to Approve Amndmt, to
Contract bet. Bd. Admin. P.E.R.S. & City
Council policy re abstention vote
Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., July 5,
1983, for closed session re personnel;
that meeting will be adjourned to 7:30
p.m., July 5, 1983, in Downey Comm.
Theatre for cont'd. joint meeting with
Comm. Dev. Comm. on Redev. Plan Amdmt. #3
0
Approved 10
Adopted 10
Interpretation by City Attorney 10
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/d / 7
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL.
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
JUNE 28, 1983
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:30 p.m.,
June 28, 1983, in the Council Chamber of the Downey 'City Hall, Mayor Pro Tem
Robert G. Cormack presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Robert G. Cormack Mayor Pro Tem
Theodore H. Jackman
Randall R. Barb
Bob Davila
ABSENT: James T. Quinn Mayor (excused)
ALSO PRESENT: Bud Ovrom, City Manager
Carl K. Newton, City Attorney
William A. Ralph, Director of Public Works
William F. Martin, Police Chief'
Don Davis, Fire Chief
James R. Jarrett, Director of Recreation
Ron Yoshiki, Assistant City Planner
Harald J. Henriksen, City Engineer
Charles G. Eccleston, Traffic Engineer
Lowell Williams, Acting Director of Finance
Gordon Davis, Purchasing/Insurance Risk Manager
Greg Shaffer, Principal Planner
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Jeanne Cook, Deputy City Clerk -Treasurer
INVOCATION AND FLAG SALUTE
The Invocation was delivered by Councilman Jackman. The Flag Salute was led
by Councilman Barb.
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack congratulated Chief Don Davis on completion of
.ending service to the Fire Department as of July 1, 1983, and presen
a Maltese Cross.
HEARINGS
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack opened the hearing on Zone Change Case No. 193, 11751
Downey Avenue. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Proof of Publication, and
the response was yes.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so
ordered to receive and file the Proof.
Mr. Yoshiki reported on the request to add a Planned Unit Development overlay
zone to the current R-3 zoning of the property. The applicant has also filed a
zone variance and conditional use permit in order to construct a condominium de-
velopment. He commented on the zoning of surrounding properties and said a
negative impact declaration was published on May 5th.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack asked if the City Clerk had received any correspondence
on this matter, and the response was no.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack inquired if there was anyone present to speak in favor
of the zone change.
Mr. L. P. Leavitt, 9724 Blandwood, Downey, representing the owner and developer
of the property, indicated he is available to answer any questions.
There being no one present to speak in opposition, it was moved by Councilman
Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so ordered to close the hearing.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP ADOPTED BY SECTION 9106.06 OF
THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE (PLANNING RESOLUTION NO. 658,
ZONE CHANGE CASE NO. 193)
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -1-
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The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman,
seconded by Councilman Davila, and passed by the following vote to waive further
reading and to introduce the, Ordinance.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack opened the hearing on General Plan Amendment 83-2, Nine
Sub -Areas in Various Locations. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Proof of
Publication, and the response was yes.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so ordered
to receive and file the Proof.
Mr. Yoshiki explained about a year ago, the Council adopted a moratorium on
development of apartments in the community in order to allow staff to examine the
basic balance of housing stock available in the community. The moratorium expired
in February this year, and the Council directed the Planning commission and staff
to pursue the matter to insure the balance of housing in the community will always
be maintained. An Owner -Rental Housing Report has been submitted which contains
three parts which staff has been reviewing: General Plan amendment of various
areas of the City; zone changes; and code amendments. There were nine general
plan amendments submitted to the Commission, but the Commission reduced the number
down to seven.
Mr. Shaffer narrated a slide presentation of areas in the City proposed for
general plan amendment, which are either medium or low medium residential, to re-
duce these areas to low density residential: Sub -Area One, four properties on
Arnett Street to the west of Downey Avenue; Sub -Area Two, on Fontana Street,
LaReina, and some areas on the north side of Stewart & Gray Road to the west of
Downey Avenue; Sub -Area Three, four properties at the southwest corner of Nada
Street and Old River School Road; Sub -Area Four, properties on Bellder Drive south
of Brookshire Children's Park; Sub -Area 5, six properties on the north side of
Buckles Street east of the condominium project being constructed on the corner of
Lakewood and Buckles; Sub -Area 6, properties behind Independence Park on the west
side of Dunrobin Avenue; and Sub -Area 9, properties on the curving section of
Cornuta Avenue and Belcher Street at the southerly City limits between Foster Road
and Woodruff Avenue.
Mr. Yoshiki explained the amendments proposed are areas that are predominately
single family in character, but the land use of the General Plan is out of charac-
ter with them.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack asked if the City Clerk had received any correspondence,
and the response was no.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack then inquired if there was anyone present to speak in
favor or in opposition to any of the Sub -Areas to the General Plan Amendment.
Susie Villa requested curbs be installed on all of the corners.
David Ray, 7338 Nada, expressed confusion over the proposal to lower the
density to R1-5,000.
Mr. Yoshiki replied the proposed amendments pertain only to the respective
land use of a particular piece of property.
Mr. Ray referred to a home on his street that sits back from the property
line, which he feels was purchased with the possibility of building two or three
units. He indicated that lowering the land use would be restricting a property
owner's ability to improve his large lot to a multiple use.
Mr. Yoshiki outlined the plot plan procedure required for property that has
sufficient area to support two houses.
Mr. Newton explained the action proposed would make no difference in the
development limitations that apply to the property. Only zone changes affect the
development limitations that, apply to property.
Jan Tannehill, 11919 Pomering Road, requested further clarification on what
is proposed.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack replied this is the result of the Council's request to
attempt to keep Downey a homeowner -occupied type City, at least 50 percent.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -2-
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It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so
ordered to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 4264
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING A PORTION OF THE GENERAL PLAN OF LAND USE MAP
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman,
seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by the following vote to waive further
reading and to adopt Resolution No. 4264.
Councilman Davila questioned the need for the General Plan amendment since
the low density is already below 50 percent.
Councilman Barb feels staff is doing a service', to the people who reside in
residential areas by protecting their property from encroachment of apartments.
Gloria Reed, 12161 Paramount Boulevard, inquired if this is the issue dis-
cussed by the Planning Commission, whereby people were concerned because R1-5,000
is being taken away from them. She was informed it was another matter which is
scheduled for a later Council meeting.
AYES; 3 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman', Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack opened the hearing on Lighting Maintenance District
AD 121, 1983-84 Assessment Levy, pursuant to the provisions of the Landscaping and
Lighting Act of 1972. He inquired if the City Clerk had the Affidavit of Posting
and Mailing of Notices and Proof of Publication, and the response was yes.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman and so ordered to receive and file the
Affidavit and Proof.
Mr. Ovrom mentioned he has sent a subsequent memo to the Council in response
to a question by Councilman Barb as to what the rate would be for Zone I if the
beginning balance were to equal the ending balance.
Mr. Eccleston stated staff recommends the following assessments: Zone I, a
zero assessment; Zone II, $118,947; Zone IV, $1,902; Zone V, $1,067; and Zone VI,
less the Firestone commercial rate, $5,701, for a total assessment of $127,617.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so ordered
to receive the Engineer's Report.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack inquired if the City Clerk had received any written
correspondence on this matter, and the response was no.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack then asked if anyone wished to speak regarding the pro-
posed intention to levy and collect assessments.
Mr. Ken Miller, 7336 Cleargrove Drive, recommended the Council concur with the
staff's recommendation to set a zero rate in Zone I.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and so ordered
to close the hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 4265
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
CONFIRMING THE 1983-84 FISCAL YEAR ASSESSMENT FOR LIGHT-
ING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT AD 121
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman to
waive further reading and to adopt Resolution No. 4265. The motion died for lack
of a second.
Councilman Davila would like to table this matter for further study.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by
the following vote to waive further reading and to adopt Resolution No. 4265.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -3-
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Councilman Barb expressed concern that the Council would continue to deplete
reserves, and he favored reinstating at least a small assessment to the residents
in Zone I for street lights.
Discussion followed.
Mr. Henriksen asked regarding the reserve amount the Council would consider
appropriate.
Councilman Jackman replied not less than 100 percent.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Davila, and passed
by the following vote to continue the hearing on Appeal to Zone Variance No. 213,
12103 Downey Avenue, to 7:30 p.m., August 23, 1983, in the Council Chamber of the
Downey City Hall, pursuant to the request of the applicant.
Councilman Barb indicated he does not feel the surrounding property owners
should have to come back time and again because this hearing is delayed.
Mr. Ovrom mentioned it was staff's understanding the hearing will be con-
tinued at the applicant's request. Therefore, staff's recommendation on this
matter was not included in the Council's agenda material.
Discussion followed.
A gentleman in the audience said he received notice the Council will accept
public testimony.
Mr. Newton said the hearing was noticed for this meeting, but it was his
understanding the Council intended to continue the hearing to August 23rd, as re-
quested by the applicant. When asked whether the hearing could still go forward
at this time, he explained that under the circumstances, where it was indicated
the Council would continue the hearing and the applicant relied upon that and did
not show at the designated hearing date, it would be a problem to go forward with
the hearing because the applicant has the right to hear tje testimony, as well as
present his own.
It was noted staff will give proper notice of the August 23rd hearing date.
Kathryn Schroyar, 12071 South Downey Avenue, inquired regarding the appli-
cant's request to delay this matter due to vacation because she has seen the
applicant, and he has not been on vacation.
Councilman Barb again said he does not feel it is fair to have people present
to give testimony and then delay the hearing. He said the Minutes do not reflect
the discussion that took place when the hearing was set.
Mr. Ovrom asked the City Clerk if he recalls whether the Council, when it set
this matter for hearing, indicated the hearing would be continued to August 23rd.
Mr. Shand replied yes.
Mr. Newton advised that if the Council conducts the hearing, there could be a
claim on the part of the applicant that he has been denied due process on the
grounds he understood he would be granted the continuance.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Davila
NOES: 1 Council Member: Barb
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
REMOVAL OF ITEMS FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
At the request of Councilman Barb, Agenda Item VIII-F-1, Resolution of Intent
for the Downey Police Department was removed from the Consent Calendar. He indi-
cated he would like to discuss this matter during the closed session.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed
by the following vote to approve the Remainder of the Consent Calendar:
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -4-
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Minutes: Adjourned Regular Meeting of June 6 1983; and Regular Meeting of
June 14, 1983.
Correspondence from Downey Sign & Lighting regarding suggestions to better
enhance Downey Sign codes (referred to staff).
Correspondence from State Senator Paul Carpenter acknowledging Downey's opposi-
tion to SB 142 regarding mandated payment for sign removal.
Correspondence from Cerritos Community College District regarding Appreciation
for Downey's support re Consortium for Southeast Los Angeles County Services
Delivery Area.
. #620
.i Robert Krai
Bloss: and
General Warrants: #211012 - 211035; #311325 - 311615• $836,675 87.
Appeal, Zone Variance No. 266 8026 Stewart & Gray Road: Set hearing for
7:30 p.m., July 26, 1983, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall.
Status Report: Five -City Cable TV System.
of Housinc &
Moni
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Items not on Agenda
David Ray, 7338 Nada Street,
Downey Community Hospital, said E
the Hospital issue. He also indi
has created some confusion.
Downey, representing Concerned Citizens to Save
hibit "E" is missing from the Sample Ballot on
Referred to the City Clerk and City Attorney.
ORDINANCES• None
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 4266
inted on the ballot
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT
FOR FISCAL YEAR
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman,
seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by the following vote to waive further
reading and to adopt Resolution No. 4266.
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING THREE (3) WATER SERVICE ZONES FOR SEPARATE
WATER RATES AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 4114
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman and
seconded by Councilman Barb to waive further reading and to adopt the Resolution.
Councilman Barb does not feel people should pay more for a service than what
the service costs, in that people in one area should not subsidize another. He
said the proposed increases would affect everyone but indicated the rates should
be the same for everyone.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack explained how the rates were established as the various
water districts were purchased by the City. Also, there was a gentlemen's agreement
when the City purchased the Old Downey Water District that the rates would not be
increased until the districts the City had purchased were paid for. He does not
feel the rates should be adjusted until the services have been paid for, and then
make the adjustments by parcel.
Mr. Ralph mentioned that two years ago, Council directed staff to increase
water rates each year by a 6§ percent differential, with the understanding that in
approximately 10-12 years the rates would become even. He indicated he has no
knowledge of any gentlemen's agreement.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -5-
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Councilman Jackman stated it was the Council's opinion at the time this was
established that the water rates should be brought to parity as soon as possible.
He does not feel one part of the City should be paying a higher water rate than
another.
Ken Miller, 7336 Cleargrove Drive, discussed previous rate increases, which
were established so the City could build reservoirs but were later proved not to
be needed. The money was used to upgrade the original Downey system. He does
concur with moving the rates to a parity but is opposed to moving as rapidly as
suggested.
Joel Lubin, 7820 Allengrove, commented on his brief involvement with the water
Facilities Corporation and his activity in the acquisition study with his employer,
the State of California. He feels the proposed rate increases are more fair to
the water user.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Cormack and seconded by Councilman Davila to
amend the motion to increase all services by the same percentage of 1211 percent,
until such time as the other water districts are paid for.
Further discussion ensued.
AYES: 2 Council Members: Cormack, Davila
NOES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Barb
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mr. Newton said the two -two vote constitutes no action by the Council.
Councilman Barb questioned whether the rates could be assessed equally by
parcel.
Mr. Ralph replied it could be done in equal increases by amount per consump-
tion unit as opposed to a percentage.
Roll call vote to adopt the Resolution as presented:
AYES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Barb
NOES: 2 Council Members: Cormack, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
The Resolution was carried over to the next meeting for a full Council.
Presentation - Keep Downey Beautiful
Gary McCaughan, Chairman of the Keep Downey Beautiful Committee, recognized
other committee members present in the audience. He referred to an outline sub-
mitted to the Council which describes the main functions of the committee and then
narrated a slide presentation of essential issues the committee feels should be
addressed. In addition, there was a presentation regarding the two projects the
committee has organized with a zero operating budget in the 1982-83 year.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack recommended that each of the Council Members visit the
committee at one of its meetings.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Cormack to
approve the request of Zeke'Avila & Sons to increase the Rio Hondo Golf Course
Councilman Barb feels this should be held in abeyance for a status report on
the Golf Course. He is not opposed to the five percent increase.
Discussion followed regarding the need for proper maintenance of the Golf
Course. It was noted this is the second year of a three-year contract.
It was moved by Councilman Barb, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Cormack, and passed
by the following vote to delay action on this matter to the next regular meeting
and ask staff ,to come back with an evaluation on where the Golf Course stands
financially.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -6-
Cash Contract #485, Civic Center Project - Change Order No. 9
Mr. Ovrom indicated he had hoped to have the architect present at this meet-
ing to discuss the cross bars, but the architect is not prepared. The architect
has designed an alternative to the cross bars, but he does not have a price from
the contractor.
It was moved by Councilman Barb and seconded by Councilman Jackman to
recommend approval by the Downey Civic Center Corporation.
When asked about the need for change orders, Mr'. Ovrom explained the Civic
Center plans were hurried due to the pending hotel construction, and when plans
are prepared on a "fast track basis," it is anticipated it will be necessary to
go back and look at items more carefully. Had it been known the hotel project
would be delayed as much as it has, more time could have been taken reviewing the
Civic Center plans.
Councilman Jackman would like to know the total number of change orders
approved and the total cost.
Mr. Henriksen defined the various types of change requests that can be involved
in a project, which could be instituted either by the architect, the contractor, or
the city.
Mr. Ovrom suggested the Council might want to place the architect and contrac-
tor on the agenda to answer questions, or designate someone to meet with them.
Discussion followed regarding the proposed change orders.
Mr. Ovrom said the budget for the project contained a contingency for a cer-
tain amount of additions, and the contingency has not been exceeded. He mentioned
there are other change orders in the mill that will need to be resolved.
A discussion was held regarding the penalty for not completing the project in
the time specified. It was noted there is a liquidated damages provision, and the
city and the Contractor are bound by the terms of that provision.
Councilman Barb suggested Council Members Cormack and Jackman, as well as the
City Attorney, meet with the architect and contractor.
AYES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Cormack
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
ABSTAIN: 1 Council Member: Davila
Mr. Ovrom read from a card in his desk which contains an exerpt from the
Council Minutes of April 22, 1980, concerning the Council's position on the
abstention vote, which states: "That if a member of the City Council abstains
from voting upon a matter and states it is an abstention, that vote is not counted
either for or against, with this exception: That in the event a vote is required
from that person in order to carry a matter when there are only three or four per-
sons present, then an abstention shall be deemed as voting with the majority."
The Council then voted again on the motion to recommend approval by the Downey
Civic Center Corporation:
AYES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Barb
NOES: 2 Council Members: Cormack, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack stated the chair rules the card defining the abstention
vote is not correct.
It was moved by Councilman Barb to recess the meeting and have the City Clerk
present the Council with the Minutes of April 22, 1980.
Councilman Jackman said the Council has not voted on Robert's Rules of Order.
Councilman Davila indicated he abstained because he did not want to vote on
this issue tonight until he has learned more about it.
Mr. Newton said approval of the Council would be needed in order for Council-
man Davila to change his vote.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -7-
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It was moved by Councilman Davila and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Cormack that
Councilman Davila be allowed to change his vote.
AYES: 2 Council Members: Cormack, Davila
NOES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Barb
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Failed.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack indicated the chair rules the first vote was in error
and that the card is not valid.
It was moved by Councilman Barb to direct staff to check and see if the word-
ing on the card is, in fact, part of the Minutes of the City.
It was so ordered that the City Clerk check the Minutes during the closed
session at the end of the meeting.
(See the City Attorney ruling at the end of the meeting, whereby it is his
interpretation the original motion passes.)
It was moved by Councilman Barb to recommend to the Downey Civic Center Cor-
poration that Change Orders No. 6 and 7 under Cash Contract #491, Library Project,
be approved with the exception of Item #3, which is the 21-day extension for the
time of construction.
Mr. Henriksen explained there was a discrepancy between the architectural plans
and the foundation plans, and the contractor had to wait for an answer from the
contractor. The contractor then finally took it upon himself to re -do what had
already been poured at a cost of approximately $2,000, which he is willing to
donate to the City, with the exception that he needs the time.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman to amend the motion to reinstate Item #3.
Councilman Barb raised questions regarding the projected and estimated comple-
tion date for the Library Project, as well as the penalty phase.
Mr. Henriksen indicated he will bring back this information.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack seconded the amended motion.
Roll call vote on the amended motion:
AYES: 2 Council Members: Jackman, Davila
NOES: 2 Council Members: Cormack, Barb
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Failed.
Roll call vote on original motion:
AYES: 3 Council Members: Jackman, Barb, Davila
NOES: 1 Council Member: Cormack
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Report on Santa Ana Freeway/Manzanar Pedestrian Overcrossing
It was moved by Councilman Davila that this be referred for the Mayor and City
Manager to sit down with the President of the School Board and the Superintendent
to discuss it before the Council is asked to make a decision. There was no second.
It was moved by Councilman Barb, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by
the following vote to completely delete any future plans for this overcrossing from
the City's immediate and future budgets. —
Councilman Barb indicated he cannot see the value of building a $1 million
bridge as an alternative for those people who do not wish to use the tunnel. The
pedestrian overcrossing at'Lemoran and the I-5 Freeway is much more of a problem
than the tunnel.
Mr. Henriksen said staff has been discussing with the State modifications for
the Lakewood Boulevard underpass under the Santa Ana Freeway. The State is willing
to construct the improvements, but it will take approximately two years to complete.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -8-
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Eleanor Lindenfeld, 8846 Manzanar, requested consideration be given to removing
the tunnel, which she said the residents have fought for many years to have removed.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack requested a report back on what would be required to
close the tunnel.
It was moved by Councilman Barb, seconded by Councilman Jackman, and passed by
the following vote to authorize a loan in the amount of $500 000 to the Community
Development Commission in accordance with the Operative Agreement.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
ABSTAIN: 1 Council Member: Davila
Contracts for Vehicle Towinq and Storage Services
Mr. Newton indicated the following changes have been made in the contract:
On Page 3, under II - Consideration: In the first paragraph, third line, the
annual minimum guarantee is $4,500 or 16 percent of the gross... The first line of
the second paragraph should begin, "During the term of the contract." On Page 5,
paragraph G, there is a change in the wording but not in substance.
It was moved by Councilman Davila to award the contract to Doug's Tug only
because United Tow is still in violation of the Code. He does not feel any busi-
ness in violation of the Code should be awarded a contract with the City. There
was no second.
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by
the following vote to approve the contracts with Doug's Tug, Inc., and United Towing
Service, Inc., for Vehicle Towing and Storage Services, as amended by the City
Attorney.
AYES: 3 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman,'. Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
It was moved by Councilman Jackman, seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by
the following vote to approve lowering the City's self -insured retention to $500,000
on the Excess Liability Insurance and maintain the liability fund reserve at $1
million.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Mr. Ovrom stated pursuant to a Council policy that the DowneyMunicipalCourt
should be in the Civic Center rather than another location, staff was directed to
see if the Courthouse would fit into the Civic Center area. The Planning Division
staff has prepared two alternatives that if the Court specifications require 580
parking spaces, it could be accomplished by building'a parking structure; or, the
parking could be on -grade, which would necessitate taking much or all of the
commercial on Downey Avenue. Staff can now proceed to negotiate with the County
on the mechanics for placing the Courthouse in the Downey Civic Center area.
Mr. Ovrom said there is a staff report on proposed Redevelopment Project Amend-
ment No. 3 altering its recommendation on conforming residential uses. He has a map
for Council review showing conforming residential uses. Staff will have another
report back to the Council before the July 5th meeting. The Project Area Committee
voted to change its recommendation, which will be submitted to the Council.
ORAL
- City Council
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack indicated he has a draft of an Ordinance controlling
Newsstands, which he will be turning over to staff and the City Attorney for review.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack also indicated he would like the Council and City
Attorney to give further consideration to the effectiveness of a lobbyist.
CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack recessed the meeting to closed session from 11:02 p.m.
to 11:38 p.m. to discuss personnel and pending litigation. The meeting resumed
with Council Members Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila present; Mayor Quinn absent.
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -9-
'7.2a�
in closed session, the 'Council confirmed and approved the Appointment of Jim
Cutts as Director of Community Development.
RESOLUTION NO. 4267
A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO
CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
Pursuant to State Law, Mr. Newton read the following statement into the
record: "The present rate for the City of Downey local safety members of P.E.R.S.
is 22.644 percent. The new rate, with the optional benefit (one year final com-
pensation) will be 25.699 percent, thus the change in cost is 4.055 percent. The _
cost to the City of this benefit for the next twelve months will be $164,673.
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Jackman,
seconded by Councilman Barb, and passed by the following vote to waive further
reading and to adopt Resolution No. 4267.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Cormack, Jackman, Barb, Davila
ABSENT: 1 Council Member: Quinn
Referring to the Council policy regarding the abstention vote, Mr. Shand said
he has checked the minutes of April 22, 1980, and the wording previously referred
to on the card placed in the Council desks is a verbatim of the wording in those
Minutes.
Mayor Pro Tem Cormack said the policy is the same as set forth in Robert's
Rules.
Mr. Newton said this is a Council rule of procedure adopted on April 22, 1980,
as to how abstain votes are counted in a situation where there are three or four
Council Members attending a meeting.
Mr. Ovrom indicated an ,abstention is not voting only in cases where all five
members of the Council are present. When there are less than five members pre-
sent, an abstention goes with the majority.
Mr. Newton stated that would only be when three votes are required to carry
an item. To approve any payment, the law requires three affirmative votes.
Mr. Ovrom then asked the City Attorney if it is his opinion the abstention
vote on the motion to approve the Change Orders under Cash Contract #485, Civic
Center Project, is counted as a yes vote and the motion passes.
Mr. Newton replied yes, according to his interpretion of the ruling. When
Councilman Davila indicated he did not intend for his abstention to be a yes vote,
Mr. Newton then said this is the rule adopted by the Council, which the Council
must follow until it is changed. The Council has the power to change the ruling.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Audience: None
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 12:05 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., July 5, 1983, in the
Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, for closed session regarding a personnel
matter. That meeting will then be adjourned to 7:30 p.m., July 5, 1983, in the
Downey Community Theatre, for continued joint hearing with the Community Develop-
ment Commission on Redevelopment Plan Amend
zz
Robert L. Shand, City C1 rk-Treasurer
Council Minutes 6/28/83 -10-