HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-03-12-85-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MARCH 12, 1985
TABLE OF MINUTE
ACTIONS
SUBJECT
ACTION PAGE NO.
Proclamation re March 23, 1985, as Camp Fire Week
1
Hearing on Proposed DMC Amendment re Satellite
Dish Antennas
Cont'd. to 3/26
1
Ord. on Proposed Code Amendment re Gasoline
Hrg set for 3/26 to
Service Stations & Convenient Mini -Marts
incl. free facilities
2
Removal of Items from Consent Calendar
3
Minutes: Adj. Reg. Mtg., Feb. 11, 1985 (Joint
Mtg. w/Planning Comm.); Spec. Called Mtg.,
Feb. 26, 1985; & Adj. Reg. Mtg., Feb. 26, 1985
Approved
4
General Warrants: #003866 - 004306
Approved
4
1983-84 Annual Financial Report
Received & filed
4
DMC Amendment re Withdrawal of Applications
& Appeals
Hearing set for 3/26
4
Financial Assistance for Sign Replacement
Continued
4
Res. #4543, Apprvg. Final Subdiv. Map of Parcel
Map #15904 (13033 Paramount)
Adopted
4
Res. #4544, Transferring Allocation of Mortgage
Subsidy Bonds to Covina -Rancho Cucamonga -Calexico -
Downey Housing Finance Agency
Adopted
4
Report on Self -Insured Liability Program
Received
4
Minutes: Reg. Mtg., Feb. 26, 1985
Approved as amended
4
Bus Stop Maint. & Clean-up: Appropriation for
labor, materials & equipmt.
Approved
5
Res. #4545, Rescinding Res. #4347 & Establishing
Policy for Destruction of Certain Obsolete
Adopted; Item "p" to be
Records (Police Dept.)
brought back next mtg.
5
Res. Apprvg. Administrative Regulation re
Ref. to City Mgr. to
Emergencies
confer w/staff members
6
Res. #4546, amending Class Spec for Firefighter
Adopted
6
Lennie Whittington re closed session announcmts.
6
Ord. re Solicitors & Peddlers
Ref. to City Atty. &
staff f/redrafting
7
Ord. re Fireworks Sales Permits
Introduced
8
Res. #4547, Est. procedure for Applications for
& Award of Fireworks Sales Permits
Adopted
8
Ord. re Seismic Regulations
Introduced
8
Ord. re Zone Change #212 (8249-51-53 Gardendale)
Introduced
8
Res. #4548, Denying Req. to amend Comp. Zoning
Map (11720 Adenmoor Av.)
Adopted
9
Page 1 of 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, MARCH 12, 1985
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT
ACTION
PAGE NO.
Res. #4549, Apprvg. Joint Powers Agreement bet.
Cities of E1 Monte & Downey Creating the E1
Monte -Downey Housing Finance Agency
Adopted 9
Joint Powers Auth. of E1 Monte -Downey Housing
Finance Agency: Apptmt. of Council Members
Santangelo & Cormack as delegates and Davila &
Boggs as alternates
Approved 9
Res. #4542, Commending Judge Leon Emerson on his
Retirement
Adopted 9
School Safety Beacons on Old River School Rd.
adj. to West Middle School: Amend 1984-85 Budget
& direct staff to immediately install mast -arm
school pedestrian safety beacons for the School
Approved 9
SS Proj. #324/350 (FAU), Imperial Hwy. from
Coldbrook Av. to San Gabriel River Bridge: Contin-
gent on Caltrans' approval, award contract to
Vernon Paving; appropriation & transfer of funds
Approved 9
Federal Flood Insurance Program: Instruct Dept.
Pub. Wks, to prepare letter that City desires to
enter program on voluntary basis
Approved 9
Downey Cemetery Dist. Auth. Dir. Pub. Wks. to
loan occasional labor & bill Cemetery for costs
Approved 10
Lennie Whittington re elderly woman walked into
glass wall of Council Chamber & broke glasses
10
Cn. Santangelo recommended 20-minute No Parking
Zone at Downey Theatre
10
Mayor Barb cited need to sweep street next to
Downey Theatre
10
Moratorium on inst. of Solar Panels on front of
City Atty. to prepare
residential property
Ord. f/next mtg. 10
Cn. Davila req, fire signal on Paramount B1. be
incl. in 1985-86 Budget & completed before 12/85
10
Cn. Davila req. time element on Orange St.
improvements
10
Cn. Davila re bidding procedure for City vehicles
10
Cn. Santangelo questioned contracting for services
outside City
10
Cn. Davila re Secretaries should be informed of
Department Heads' whereabouts
10
Cn. Davila suggested five member Citizens
Complaint Comission
11
Cn. Cormack re status of Rio Hondo Bridge removal
11
Cn. Cormack re dangerous condition created by
bicycle traffic on Suva Street bridge
11
Zone Variance #372, 12842 Gneiss
Council to hear case
as an appeal 11
Page 2 of 3
COUNCIL MINUTES, MARCH 12, 1985
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED)
SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO.
Cn. Boggs req. study on use of Prop A Funds incl.
possible joint venture w/School Dist. re use of
school buses 11
Cn. Boggs requested review of leash problem at
Downey High School 11
Cn. Santangelo re policy of outside baseball
teams coming into City 11
Cn. Boggs re status of report on in-house
City Attorney 12
Mayor Barb compliments Department Heads &
City Clerk 12
Meeting adjourned to 8:00 a.m., March 15, for
breakfast meeting w/Assemblyman Grisham 12
Page 3 of 3
% F.1
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
MARCH 12, 1985
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:39 p.m.,
March 12, 1985, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Randall R.
Barb presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Randall R. Barb Mayor
Bob Davila Mayor Pro Tem
Diane P. Boggs
James S. Santangelo
Robert G. Cormack
ALSO PRESENT: Bud Ovrom, City Manager
Carl K. Newton, City Attorney
James R. Cutts, Director of Community Development
William A. Ralph, Director of Public Works
Lee Powell, Director of Administrative Services
William F. Martin, Police Chief
Don Davis, Fire Chief
James R. Jarrett, Acting Director of Community Services
William Gilland, Building Official
John Wager, Housing Manager
Scot Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Robert L. Shand, City Clerk -Treasurer
Judy McDonnell, Executive Secretary
INVOCATION AND FLAG SALUTE
The Invocation was delivered by Reverend Edward Ullrich, Moravian Church of
of Downey. The Flag Salute was led by the Sunshine Group Camp Fire Club from
the Carpenter School
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Barb presented a Proclamation declaring March 23, 1985, as Camp Fire
Week to the Sunshine Group of the Camp Fire Club from Carpenter School. The
Sunshine group presented candy to the City Council.
HEARINGS
Mayor Barb opened the hearing on Proposed Amendment to Downey Municipal
Code regarding Satellite Dish Antennas. He inquired if the City Clerk had the
Proof of Publication, and the response was yes.
It was moved by Councilwoman Boggs, seconded by Councilman Davila, and so
ordered to receive and file the Proof.
Mr. Cutts stated this matter was referred to the Planning Commission, who
conducted hearings and took considerable testimony. The proposed Ordinance says
satellite dish antennas are to be reviewed and approved by the City Planner
subject to certain development standards.
Mayor Barb asked if the City Clerk had received any correspondence.
Mr. Shand replied a letter was received from Mr. Joel Lubin opposing the
Ordinance and requesting action on this matter be withheld.
It was moved by Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Davila, and
so ordered to receive and file the correspondence.
Mayor Barb inquired if there was anyone present to speak to the proposed
amendment.
Leon Emerson, 7607 Yankey, representing the Downey Amateur Radio Club, said
they have reviewed the Ordinance, feel it is fair, and they can adhere to it.
The Planning Division has done a wonderful job in its research and engineering
evaluation of this matter.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -1-
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It was moved by Councilman Davila and seconded by Councilwoman Boggs to
continue the hearing to 7:30 p.m., March 26, 1985, in the Council Chamber of the
Downey City Hall, to allow Mr. Lubin the opportunity to speak to the issue.
Councilwoman Boggs also indicated she has received two requests from one
person requesting it be continued for two weeks and another person requesting it
be referred back to the Planning Commission.
Mayor Barb opened the hearing on Proposed Amendment to Downey Municipal
Code pertaining to Gasoline Service Stations and Convenient Mini -Marts. He
asked if the City Clerk had the Proof of Publication, and the response was yes.
It was moved by Councilman Davila, seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and
so ordered to receive and file the Proof.
Mr. Cutts said in November the Council adopted an Ordinance pertaining to
gasoline service stations/convenience markets and that they provide air, water,
and windshield wiping materials. At that time, the Council referred a portion
of the matter back to the Commission for study as to whether these items should
be provided for free. The Commission has conducted hearings and concluded that
in addition to placing these requirements on a mini -mart operation the require-
ment should also be placed on full -service gasoline stations to provid these
services at no charge to the consumers.
Mayor Barb inquired if the City Clerk had received any correspondence, and
the response was no.
Mayor Barb then asked if anyone wished to speak to the proposed Amendment.
Mr. Darrell Fay, 12739 Lakewood Boulevard, representing an oil company
headquartered in Downey, explained that the cost to maintain the equipment for
providing air and water to the public has become very expensive due to constant
problems with vandalism. He cited the costs for replacing certain parts. He
emphasized the service station organizations are not interested in providing
equipment for air and water to make money but that they be allowed to offset the
cost of maintaining the equipment by requiring a small charge. Responding to a
question, he said the procedure used by the industry at the present time is an
air vending machine, which is a 25 cent charge that allows anywhere from 3-1/2-
to-5 minutes of air time.
Members of the Council expressed concern that five minutes is sufficient
time to fill tires with air. Also, suggestions were made to adjust the prices
of gasoline to compensate for any maintenance costs to the equipment.
Mr. Fay does not feel anyone would want to see the costs of maintaining the
equipment passed onto the cost of gasoline. When asked if restrooms are pro-
vided for customers at no charge, he replied yes in most cases except in
neighborhoods where they have to be closed for security reasons.
Councilman Cormack said restrooms should be added to the Ordinance.
Mr. Wayne Rogers, owner of Mass Air Inc., representing the Southern
California portion of Air Vent, a coin -operated air vending machine, cited the
costs for repair of hoses and trucks and said if the price of gasoline is raised
in order to provide free air, then it is not free air. Some stations charge for
air while others do not, and this gives an individual a choice.
Jan Tannyhill, 11919 Pomering Road, suggested this might be difficult to
enforce and said the best enforcer is the consumer, who can turn his back and go
to someone else if he so choses.
Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee, mentioned he conducted a survey of self-
service stations in Downey, and over 50 percent do not offer restrooms. Also,
some stations charge for restrooms, as well as air for tires.
There being no one else wishing to speak, it was moved by Councilman
Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Davila, and so ordered to close the hearing.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 9146 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE,
(CHAPTER 1, ARTICLE IX) RELATING TO GASOLINE SERVICE STATIONS
AND COMBINED GASOLINE SERVICE STATION/CONVENIENCE MARKETS
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -2-
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The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman
Santangelo and seconded by Councilman Cormack to waive further reading and to
introduce.
Councilwoman Boggs would like to see gas stations provide free air, water
and restrooms, and she expressed concern that the Council should tell a business
person what he must supply free to the public.
It was moved by Councilman Cormack and seconded by Councilman Davila to
amend the Ordinance by adding "and restroom facilities."
Mr. Newton stated this change would be beyond the scope of the current
amendment since there is no current provision for restrooms to be provided and
this was not discussed in hearing before the Planning Commission.
Councilman Cormack cited the need for restrooms in the City's service
stations.
Councilman Davila withdrew his second to the motion.
It was moved by Councilman Cormack and seconded by Councilwoman Boggs to
send the Ordinance back to the Planning Comission to have it changed to include
restrooms.
During discussion, Councilman Cormack mentioned there have been complaints
about the lack of restroom facilities and something should be done.
Mr. Cutts said during the hearing, the Planning Commission did discuss
whether restrooms should be included, and it was the Commission's decision to
not include that in the recommendation.
Mr. Newton said if the Commission did discuss it and held a hearing on it,
then if the Council wishes, it can propose an amendment to this Ordinance to add
restrooms and set the matter for a new hearing before the Council so that anyone
objecting to that aspect of the Ordinance would have an opportunity to voice
their objections.
It was moved by Councilman Cormack and seconded by Councilman Davila to set
a hearing on the Ordinance with the amendment for free restroom facilities,
water, and air, and to conduct another hearing at 7:30 p.m., March 26, 1985, in
the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall.
Questions were raised on how this would affect current service stations
that do not have restroom facilities and whether they would mean have to open
their employee restrooms to the public.
Mr. Newton replied they would be a non -conforming use because these are
development standards required to be included, and restrooms fall into a
different category than air and water, since air and water are required by State
law. A combination of the State law requirement and City law means it would be
effective immediately.
Further discussion ensued.
The motion to set the hearing was so ordered.
REMOVAL OF ITEMS FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
Agenda Items VIII-A, Minutes of Regular Meeting of February 26, 1985; and
VIII-G-2, Administrative Regulations for Emergency Procedures, were removed at
the request of Councilwoman Boggs.
Agenda Items VIII-F-2, Self -Insured Liability Insurance Program; and
VIII-G-1, Policy for Destruction of Certain Obsolete Records, were removed at
the request of Councilman Santangelo.
Agenda Items VIII-G-5, Amendment to Firefighter Specifications; VIII-F-3,
Cleaning/Maintaining Bus Stops; were removed at the request of Councilman
Davila.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -3-
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CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Cormack, seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and passed by
the following vote to approve the Remainder of the Consent Calendar:
Minutes: Adjourned Regular Meeting, February 11, 1985 (Joint Meeting with
Planning Commission); Special Called Meeting, February 26, 1985; and
Adjourned Regular Meeting of February 26, 1985.
General Warrants: #003866 - 004306: $998,838.73.
1983-84 Annual Financial Report: Receive and file.
Amendment to Downey Municipal Code Sections 9160.14, 9164.10 and 9170.08
regarding Withdrawal of Applications and Appeals: Hearing set for 7:30
p.m., March 26, 1985, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall.
Financial Assistance for Sign Replacement: Continued.
RESOLUTION NO. 4543
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE FINAL SUBDIVISION MAP OF PARCEL MAP
NO. 15904 (13033 PARAMOUNT BOULEVARD)
RESOLUTION NO. 4544
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
TRANSFERRING ITS ALLOCATION OF MORTGAGE SUBSIDY BONDS TO
THE COVINA - RANCHO CUCAMONGA - CALEXICO - DOWNEY HOUSING
FINANCE AGENCY
AYES: 5 Council Members: Davila, Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
Self -Insured Liability Insurance Program
Noting the amount for self -insured liability and excess liability,
Councilman Santangelo asked if the new plan will require a $1 million certifi-
cate from all contractors.
Mr. Powell said this requirement was shown in a previous staff report, and
staff is still analyzing whether to require $500,000 or $1 million, although
$500,000 would be the minimum.
Councilman Santangelo does not want to approve this until a final
determination has been made by staff and the Council has had an opportunity to
review it.
Mr. Powell explained staff is reviewing the liability insurance program
concerning outside people doing things which create exposure to the City. It
was proposed to beef -up procedures and make them more consistent and standard-
ized, and staff is in the process of drafting an administrative regulation to be
circulated among departments for input. It will then come to the City Council
for review. When asked whether the City is adequately covered regarding the
Hospital's exposure to the City in regard to their insurance, he said this is
covered by an agreement between the City and Hospital, and the agreement states
what the Hospital has to provide in the way of liability insurance protection.
It was moved by Councilman Cormack, seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and so
ordered to receive the report on Self -Insured Liability Insurance Program.
Councilwoman Boggs requested an addition on page 8 of the Minutes, Regular
Meeting of February 26, 1985, after the seventh paragraph, to reflect that she
asked Mr. Jorgensen if escrow had closed on his property, and he told her it had
not. She said it was an important issue in opening up the parcel on Iowa Street
for further consideration.
It was moved by Councilwoman Boggs, seconded by Councilman Davila, and
passed by unanimous vote to approve the Minutes as amended.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -4-
? � rc5
It was moved by Councilman Davila to approve a program of Bus Stop
Maintenance and Clean-up and appropriate the sum of $6,000 to hire a student
rather than a part-time worker.
Mr. Ovrom questioned how the student would be transported to the job site.
Mr. Ralph said it is necessary to use equipment in order to take the trash
for dumping, and in the past municipal aides have been used, as well as hiring
youths 16 years of age or older, which has been successful.
The Chair accepted the motion.
Responding to a question, Mr. Ralph explained how he arrived at the $3,000
recommended figure of 16-20 hours a week to cover the major streets that have
bus benches. To the best of his knowledge, all of the bus lines have been
included for maintenance.
AYES: 0 Council Members: None
NOES: 5 Council Members: Davila, Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
Failed.
Councilman Santangelo said in staff memo there is mention that the Capital
Improvements Budget for 1985-86 will include a project for installation of bus
shelters, and it was Council's determination there will not be bus shelters.
Mr. Ovrom mentioned this issue has not been brought to the Council as yet.
It is not included as part of this recommendation.
It was moved by Councilman Davila, seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and
passed by unanimous vote to approve a program of Bus Stop Maintenance and Clean-
up and appropriate the sum of $3,000 for labor, materials, and equipment from
Unappropriated Proposition A Funds to Account No. 55-13991 for the remainder of
1984-85.
RESOLUTION NO. 4545
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 4347 AND ESTABLISHING A POLICY
FOR DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE RECORDS
It was indicated the Resolution adds paragraph "r" to the present
resolution on background investigation.
Councilman Davila said it is a mistake to include item "p" for destruction
of records of internal investigations because in the event another Police Chief
comes into the Department, he will be unaware of investigations pertaining to
personnel.
Councilman Santangelo mentioned the addition of Item "r" was not clear in
the staff report, and he requested in the future that department recommendations
mention when an item is being added to an already existing resolution.
Chief Martin explained sometime back State Law was changed to allow for
destruction of personnel records after five years. When Item "p" was brought to
the Council for approval, it was staff's belief that a person who makes an error
in judgment should not have to pay for it for the rest of his life. Five years
is a sufficient length of time to maintain a record of a person's good or bad
behavior. He commented on the ongoing problem in the Courts of Skelly hearings,
where defense attorneys routinely subpoena Police Officers' personnel records to
use the information against the Officers in the way they perform their duty.
Councilman Davila said the Los Angeles Police Department maintains confi-
dential personnel files which are not subject to subpoena, but is a memo file
for use by the Police Chief to review any and all personnel working for him.
Council Members Santangelo and Boggs indicated they are ready to approve
the Resolution but would like to take another look at Item "p".
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman
Santangelo and seconded by Councilman Cormack to waive further reading and to
adopt.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -5-
An amended motion was made by Councilman Davila and seconded by
Councilwoman Boggs to not include Item "p."
Chief Martin questioned whether it is appropriate for the Council to do
away with something that is in the State Law.
Mr. Ovrom suggested approving the Resolution because it is in State law and
give staff the opportunity to bring back additional research and comments from
the City Attorney about Item "p."
Roll call vote on the amendment:
AYES: 1 Council Member:
NOES: 4 Council Members
Failed.
Davila
Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
The motion to waive and adopt was then passed by the following vote:
AYES: 4 Council Members: Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
Councilman Davila indicated his "no" vote was only to adoption and not to
the waiver of further reading.
It was moved by Councilman Davila, seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and
so ordered to bring back Item "p" to the City Council at the next meeting.
RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING AN ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION CONCERNING EMERGENCIES
Councilwoman Boggs questioned whether it is advisable to set an amount, and
if it is exceeded then a different procedure would be required. She does not
want to give a blank check.
Referred to the City Manager to confer with the Fire Chief and Director of
Administrative Services.
RESOLUTION NO. 4546
A RSOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING THE CLASS SPECIFICATION FOR FIREFIGHTER
Councilman Davila asked if a five percent increase would help Fire Depart-
ment personnel become interested in the Paramedic position.
Chief Davis commented on the various personnel classifications in the Fire
Department and of the Paramedic training required. It is his recommendation to
hire three lateral transfer Firefighter Paramedics, which is the most cost
effective method, and give the younger people experience before training them at
a future date. When asked if a vote of the Downey Firemen's Association was
taken on this matter, Chief Davis replied he discussed this with the Association
Board of Directors, and they had no objection to the change.
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and passed by the following vote to waive
further reading and to adopt.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
Councilman Davila indicated his "no" vote was only to adoption.
Mayor Barb declared a recess from 9:04 p.m. to 9:23 p.m. The meeting
resumed with all Council Members present.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Items not on Agenda
Mr. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee, said at the 6:30 p.m. Council Meeting
on February 26th, when the Council recessed to closed session, it was announced
the Council would discuss the Kimberly Paul case, but when the meeting resumed
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -6-
16 K9
the announcement was there were no decisions made. However, he later read in
the newspaper that the Council had made a decision, and he asked why it was not
announced publicly as required by the Brown Act.
Mr. Newton explained that the Brown Act does not require the announcement
of a decision except when it involves the discharge or employment of personnel.
He said he would be willing to review this with Mr. Whittington. When asked if
there were any decisions made tonight, he replied there was no decision made
that was required to be announced. He also pointed out that three days after
the February 26th closed session, public documents were filed, and that was the
form of the public announcement.
ORDMANCES
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DONNEY
AMENDING ARTICLE IV, CHARTER 5, BY ADDING SECTION 4521
RELATING TO SOLICITORS AND PEDDLERS
Mayor Barb said there are people in the audience who represent various
groups which reflect parts of the industry affected by the Ordinance. He asked
if they would like to speak at this time.
Mr. John Templeton, 8711 Mory Street, said he has an independent insurance
brokerage and that 60-70 percent of his income is derived from door-to-door
solicitation. He specializes in health insurance, and many people are not able
to leave their homes and are uninformed. He feels the Ordinance would be doing
a disservice to the community.
Mr. Jared Blum, general counsel for the Direct Selling Association, 1730 M
Street N.W., Washington D.C., said the proposed Ordinance would make it diffi-
cult, if not possible, for members of the Association and sales people to
operate in the City. He named the companies he represents, who operate through
the use of independent contractors that sell from personal demonstration of
products in the home. He discussed the proposed Ordinance and urged the Council
to not adopt it.
Mr. Stephen Lozowick, attorney with Avon Products, 9 West 57th Street, New
York, New York, speaking on behalf of the Corporation and many representatives
who live and work in Downey. He asked the Avon representatives present in the
audience to stand. He objected to wording in the Ordinance which mentions that
the going in and upon private residences is declared to be a nuisance and said
no representative of Avon would ever want to become a nuisance to any private
homeowner. He asked an Avon representative come forward and speak.
Betty Douglas, 9615 Paramount Boulevard, explained how she started in the
Avon business and of the many customers and friends she has made over the years.
Maria Hayek, 9139 Raviller, representing the Board of Realtors as its
president, commented that realtors conduct door-to-door solicitations and said
the Police Chief refers to realtors as extra eyes of the Police Department. The
Ordinance would hurt the real estate industry.
Mr. Engles, 9518 Muller, representing Downey Pop Warner, started to speak
to this matter when Mayor Barb informed him the Ordinance only deals with
commercial solicitations.
Councilman Santangelo indicated it is not his intent to prohibit the
insurance or real estate industries, Avon, Amway, or young people who solicit
work during the summer, and he suggested the Ordinance be redrafted.
Councilman Davila has always been against unscrupulous peddlers that come
to the home because they create a problem. He concurred with redrafting the
Ordinance.
Councilman Cormack said the Ordinance should go back to staff to include
some hour restraints and requirement for business license.
Councilwoman Boggs concurred the Ordinance should go back to staff, but
feels a new Ordinance should be brought back because there are older citizens in
the community who are being "fleeced" by people going door-to-door. She
requested an Ordinance be prepared that would give some protection to citizens
without impairing people's ability to do business.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -7-
Mayor Barb suggested the Ordinance be drafted to contain wording that would
allow for the groups represented this evening to continue what they are doing
but to restrict other type businesses by dealing with point of sale, cash trans-
fer or dealing with people that have a particular area they service regularly.
Councilwoman Boggs requested cash transfer be included in the Ordinance and
that identification be required.
Mr. Blum volunteered to work with the City Attorney to come up with some
viable alternatives.
Councilman Santangelo suggested caution be exercised so as to not be too
restrictive. He also indicated that the wearing of identification badges might
cause people to trust eveyone wearing a particular badge. People should make
themselves alert and ask questions. He has not received any information from a
constituent saying they were imposed upon, but he does not want an outside
company depositing children with candy to solicit.
Mayor Barb said there needs to be a system for door-to-door sales.
The City Attorney was asked to work with staff in preparing a new Ordinance
that can be enforced.
Mayor Barb declared a recess from 9:57 p.m. to 9:59 p.m. The meeting
resumed with all Council Members present.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING ARTICLE III, CHAPTER 3, SECTION 3337, RELATING
TO FIREWORKS SALES PERMITS
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and passed by the following vote to waive
further reading and to introduce.
When asked about the status of the 18 slots, Chief Davis replied he does
not know at this time because the organizations have not filed as of this date.
AYES: 5 Council Members: Davila, Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
RESOLUTION NO. 4547
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING A PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATIONS FOR AND AWARD
OF FIREWORKS SALES PERMITS
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and passed by unanimous vote to waive further
reading and to adopt.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY,
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
ARTICLE YIII OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, BY ADDING
SECTION 8800 - PERTAINING TO SEISMIC REGULATIONS
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and passed by unanimous vote to waive further
reading and to adopt.
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. 786,
ZONE CHANGE CASE NO. 212) (8249-51-53 Gardendale St.)
The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and passed by the following vote to waive
further reading and to,,�
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -8-
Z
Mr. Cutts mentioned the recommendation is to introduce the Ordinance and
hold the second reading in abeyance until the applicant submits his tract map.
AYES: 5 Council Members: Davila, Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 4548
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DENYING A REQUEST TO AMEND THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING MAP
(11720 Adenmoor Avenue)
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and passed by the following vote to waive
further reading and to adopt.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Davila, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Santangelo
RESOLUTION NO. 4549
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING THE JOINT EXERCISE OF POWERS AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF EL MONTE AND THE CITY OF DOWNEY CREATING THE
EL MONTE-DOWNEY HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by concilman Cormack,
seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and passed by unanimous vote to waive further
reading and to adopt.
It was moved by Councilman Davila and seconded by Councilman Cormack to
appoint Council Members Santangelo and Cormack as delegates to the Joint Powers
Authority of the E1 Monte -Downey Housing Finance Agency; and it was moved by
Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Cormack, and passed by the
following vote to appoint Council Members Davila and Boggs as alternates.
AYES: 4 Council Members: Santangelo, Boggs, Cormack, Barb
NOES: 1 Council Member: Davila
RESOLUTION NO. 4542
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
COMMENDING JUDGE LEON EMERSON ON HIS RETIREMENT
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Councilman
Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Cormack, and passed by unanimous vote to
waive further reading and to adopt.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
It was moved by Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Cormack, and
passed by unanimous vote to amend the Fiscal Year 1984-85 SB 821 Pedestrian
Safety Budget by allocating an additional $15,000 from interest surplus; find
that the installation of School Safety Beacons on Old River School adjacent to
the West Middle School are needed immediately for school safety reasons; and
direct staff to proceed immediately with the force -account installation of
standard mast -arm school pedestrian safety beacons for the West Middle School at
11985 Old River School Road.
It was moved by Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilwoman Boggs, and
passed by unanimous vote that contingent upon Caltrans' approval, to award a
unit price contract totaling $184,357.50 to Vernon Paving Company for construc-
tion of street improvements under S.S. Project No. 324/350 (FAU), Imperial
Highway from Coldbrook Avenue to San Gabriel River Bridge; appropriate funds in
the amount of $5,800 from the unexpended Gas Tax Fund Balance to Account No. 26-
16226 for use on this project; and authorize the transfer of funds in the amount
of $5,800 from Account No. 26-16186 to Account No. 26-16226.
It was moved by Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Davila, and
passed by unanimous vote to instruct the Department of Public works to prepare a
letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency advising that the City of
Downey desires to enter the Federal Flood Insurance Program on a voluntary
basis.
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -9-
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It was moved by Councilman Santangelo, seconded by Councilman Cormack, and
passed by unanimous vote to authorize the Director of Public works to loan
occasional labor to the Downey Cemetery District and bill them for those costs
incurred by the City.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Staff Members: None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Audience
Mr. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee, mentioned that tonight an elderly
woman walked into the glass wall of the the Council Chamber and broke her
glasses. He suggested some markers be placed on the glass.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - City Council
Councilman Santangelo recommended a 20-minute No Parking Zone at the
Theatre so that people can park their cars and purchase tickets.
Mayor Barb asked about having the street swept next to the Theatre.
Mr. Ralph will look into it and said there should be two or three stalls at
the end adjacent to where the tickets are purchased.
Councilman Santangelo objected to the installation of solar panels on the
front of property that is visible from the street, which deteriorates the value
of residential property, and he recommended the Planning Commission look into
this and come back with a recommendation.
Councilman Commack suggested declaring a moratorium.
Mr. Newton said staff will research and advise the Council and Planning
staff as to State law limitations upon cities in imposing restrictions on solar
energy paraphernalia.
Councilman Davila requested a Fire Signal on Paramount Boulevard be
included in the 1985-86 Budget and completed before December 1985.
Mr. Ralph indicated it was his understanding it is to be included in the
budget.
Councilman Davila said he has been receiving complaints regarding the noisy
sirens.
Councilman Davila also requested a time element on the Orange Street
improvements.
Councilman Davila commented regarding receipt of a letter from Dodge Motors
regarding the bidding procedure on City vehicles.
Mr. Ovrom said an answer was sent to the letter. He mentioned a bid was
received from the Dodge dealer and it was the low bid, but the engine specifi-
cations did not meet Police Department requirements. The bid was awarded to the
local Ford dealer.
Councilman Santangelo commented on receipt of calls inquiring as to why
Downey contracts for services outside the City. He specifically mentioned that
redesign of the Communicator was done outside the City.
Mr. Ovrom replied it is the City's policy to give a financial break to
people inside the City.
Councilman Santangelo mentioned he knows of a company that does this type
of design work who was not solicited.
Mr. Ovrom said attempts are made to contact businesses in the City to
submit bids.
Mr. Yotsuya stated staff has discussed this matter with the businessman
referred to by Councilman Santangelo.
Councilman Davila cited an incident, wherein he called City Hall to speak
to a Department Head and that the person answering the phone did not know where
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the Department Head was. He requested implementation of a log sheet so that the
secretaries will know where the Department Heads are at all times.
Mr. Ovrom said it is good management practice for a Department Head to let
his secretary know where he is. He recalled an instance where Councilman Davila
could not reach a Department Head but said he does not feel there needs to be a
Council policy of a log sheet.
It was moved by Councilman Davila that a log be implemented. When
Councilman Santangelo said he is satisfied that the City Manager recognizes the
Department Heads should let their secretaries know where they are, he concurred.
Councilman Davila mentioned when the City Manager first came on board, he
inquired of the Council Members' priorities and that he had suggested a five
member Citizens Complaint Commission be established. Responding to questions,
he said the commission would handle any complaints including personnel.
Mr. Ovrom said some complaints are handled by the departments, and he asked
Councilman Davila to submit a list of any complaints he might have.
Councilman Cormack inquired regarding status of the Rio Hondo Bridge
removal.
Mayor Barb said he received a copy of a letter Supervisor Schabarum sent to
a County department working with Federal appropriations asking that they report
on the cost to close the bridge. The letter also indicated that Downey had
requested the bridge's removal in 60 days. He will submit copies of the letter
to the Council.
Councilman Cormack commented on a dangerous condition created by bicycle
traffic on the Suva Street bridge.
Mr. Ralph said staff is studying the problem with the use of video tapes.
Councilwoman Boggs referred to an item heard by the Planning Commission on
Zone Variance No. 372, 12842 Gneiss, which concerns a 25 by 60 foot lot, and
that the Commission made modifications on the setback. She requested the
Council to hear this matter on appeal, as well as take a look at 25-foot lot
situations to see if this is the direction the City should be developing.
Mr. Newton explained the State Legislature in 1983 and 1984 amended State
Law to severely restrict the ability of local jurisdictions to require merger of
sub -standard lots. He has prepared an Ordinance which will be submitted to the
City within the next 30 days for consideration.
It was moved by Councilwoman Boggs, seconded by Councilman Santangelo, and
passed by unanimous vote that the Council hear Zone Variance No. 372 as an
appeal.
Councilwoman Boggs suggested the study on use of Prop A Funds include a
possible joint venture with the School District to utilize funds to help
alleviate their transportation problems.
Mayor Barb said this is being looked into.
Councilwoman Boggs cited a Leash Law problem at Downey High School and
requested this matter be reviewed.
Mayor Barb commented on his attendance at a meeting where the main item of
discussion was the care and control of school facilities. Also, the school will
be adopting rules for control of the schools and they will forward them to the
Council for preparation of an Ordinance so that when Police Officers respond
they can enforce a problem. Also, the School District would split the cost with
the City to add a Police Officer to handle schools, parks, etc.
Councilman Santangelo inquired if consideration is being given to a policy
of outside baseball teams coming into the City.
Mayor Barb mentioned it was suggested that on weekends to only allow uses
on the school grounds that have permits.
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Councilwoman Boggs inquired regarding status of the report on in-house City
Attorney.
Mr. Ovrom said it is forthcoming.
Mayor Barb commmented that many employees have been with the City 20 and 30
years, and the City is fortunate to have them. He appreciates the Department
Heads and the job performed by the City Clerk.
ADJOURNMENT: 10:40 p.m.
The meeting was adjourned to 8:00 a.m., March 15, 1985, in the Rio Hondo
Country Club for a breakfast meeting with Assemblyma"ayne Grisham.
Ro ert L. Shand, -City C/ er<-Treasurer Randall R. arb,
Council Minutes 3/12/85 -12-