HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes-12-13-88-Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECEMBER 13, 1988
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS
SUBJECT ACTION
Certificate of Appointment to Grace Horney-
Personnel Advisory Board
Certificate of Appointment to Rick D. Sanchez -
Cable T.V. Citizens Advisory Board
Proclamation declaring week of Dec. 19 as
S.A.D.D.-Downey Teen Safe Ride Week
DARE Poster judging
Meeting recessed 7:45 p.m. & reconvened 8:00 p.m.
Res. #5086, Establishing a Uniform Schedule of
Fees
Ordinance Amending Section 3712, 3722 & 3725 of
DMC re System Permit Expiration & Fees; Permit
Reinstatement & Permit Revocation Notice
Ordinance Amending Section 6407 of DMC re Police
Permit Fees
Ordinance Amending Section 6525 of DMC re
Application Fees f/Auto f/Hire
Ordinance Amending Section 6554.1 of DMC re
Employees of Massage Parlors
Ordinance Amending Section 6703 of DMC re Fee
f/Fire & Closing -Out Sales
Ordinance Amending Section 6802 of the DMC re
Permit Application
Ordinance Amending Sections 7309 & 7317 of DMC
re Disconnection f/Non-Payment & Meter Testing
Appeal, Z.V. #597, 11941 Rives Av.
(Deepak Bondade)
Mtg. recessed 9:02 p.m. & reconvened 9:10 p.m.
Myrtle Risley re noise made by Paramount Chevrolet
& Downey Welding
Robert Bechtelheimer re Kiwanettes 10k Run
Removal of items from Consent Calendar
Minutes: Adj. Reg. Mtg., 11/15/88; Reg. Mtg.,
11/15/88; Adj. Reg. Mtg., 11/22/88; & Reg. Mtg.,
11/22/88
CC #566, Tree Trimming, Citywide
General Warrants #45882-46478, $2,219,709.97
Annual Financial Report - FY 1987-88
Manpower Change for Joint Fire Dispatch Center
Contract/Health Insurance Claims Administration
w/Heller & Associates
Adopted
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Introduced
Approved Z.V.;
Res. 1/10/89
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
Approved
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Page 1 of 2
COUNCIL MINUTES, DECEMBER 13, 1988
TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (Continued)
SUBJECT
ACTION
PAGE NO.
Renewal of Operating Agreement w/Security Pacific
National Bank Compensating Program
Approved
5
Res. #5087, Designating Priscilla St. a Through
Street at its Intersection with Kipway Drive
Adopted
5
Investment Policy - 1989
Approved
5
Res. #5089, Granting Z.V. #579, 11212 Paramount Bl.
(Paramount Chevrolet)
Adopted
5
Res. #5090, Amending Res. #4914 & Adjusting Wage
f/Part-Time Hourly Classification of Library Page
Adopted
6
Street Sweeping Contractor Specifications
1/10/89 Agenda;
Return to Orig. plan
6
City Budget Policy
Cont. to 1/10/89
7
Completion CC #537, Fire Station No. 2 Remodel,
9556 Imperial Hwy.
Approved
7
CC #561, Rio Hondo Golf Course Service Yard, Gas
Island/Tank Replacement/Pavement Improvements
Cont. to 1/10/89
7
CC #563, Construction of Sidewalk & Wheelchair Ramps
on Cheyenne Av., Paramount B1. to Downey Av.
Approved
7
CC #564, South City Feeder Water Transmission Mains,
Additional Engineering Services
Approved
8
Agreement between City of Downey and Rio Hondo
Temporary Home
Approved
8
Adjustment of Water Rates
Cont. to 1/10/89
8
Res. #5088, Designating Intersection of Fifth St.
& La Reina Av. as a Four -Way Stop Intersection
Adopted
9
Cn. Paul asked that DARE Program (to include 8th
grade) be placed on future Agenda
9
Cn. Paul asked the status of Recruitment of Design
Review Board Members
9
Cn. Paul asked the status of Charter Review Board
Report
9
Cn. Barb asked for report regarding Barking Dog
Nuisance
10
Mayor Cormack announced Downey PTA (Helps
Program) invited Council to view food distribution
from Dec. 19-23 at Unsworth School
10
Cn. Boggs invited interested persons to accompany
her to Rio Hondo Temporary Home in the City of Norwalk
10
Mtg. adjourned at 11:00 p.m.
10
Page 2 of 2
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DECEMBER 13, 1988
The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:37 p.m.,
December 13, 1988, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Robert
G. Cormack presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Robert G. Cormack Mayor
Randall R. Barb Mayor Pro Tem
Roy L. Paul
Barbara J. Hayden
Diane P. Boggs
ALSO PRESENT: Don Davis, City Manager
Peter Thorson, City Attorney
Jenny Young, City Clerk -Treasurer
Ken Farfsing, Director of Community Development
Ronald Irwin, Fire Chief
James R. Jarrett, Director of Community Services
Lee Powell, Director of Administrative Services
William A. Ralph, Director of Public Works
Pete Stone, Police Chief
Ray Hamada, Associate Planner
Vicki Jenkins, City Librarian
William Makshanoff, Building Official
Jim McCulloch, Motor Officer
Oliver Mujica, Assistant Planner
Ed Velasco, Housing Manager
Ronald Yoshiki, City Planner
Scot Yotsuya, Assistant to the City Manager
Joyce Baker, Executive Secretary
PRESENTATIONS
Council 'Member Boggs presented a Certificate of Appointment to Grace Horney
on her appointment to the Personnel Advisory Board.
Council Member Hayden presented a Certificate of Appointment to Rick D.
Sanchez on his appointment to the Cable T.V. Citizens Advisory Board.
Mayor Cormack presented to Napua Lee, a Senior at Warren High School, and
her sponsor, Julie Dennis; and Raymond Rivera, a Junior at Downey High School,
and his sponsor, Steve Terreri, a Proclamation declaring the week of December
19, 1988, as S.A.D.D. - Downey Teen Safe Ride Week.
At this time, Mayor Cormack announced the Council would be recessing to
judge the D.A.R.E Posters. Officer Cynthia Billings, DARE Officer, Downey
Police Department handed out voting ballots to Council, Police Chief Stone,
Officer Jodie Barb, two officials of the School Board, and any members of the
audience who were interested in participating in the judging. Officer Billings
advised DARE stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education and the Downey Police
Department program teaches fifth grade students how to say no to drugs. She
said that one poster is submitted from each class that she teaches and their are
eighteen posters. Officer Billings related the results of the judging would be
announced the next day. Mayor Cormack thanked D.A.R.E. Officer Cynthia Billings
and former D.A.R.E Officer Jodie Barb for their diligent work on this program.
The meeting recessed at 7:45 p.m. and reconvened at 8:00 p.m, with all
Council Members present.
HEARINGS
Mayor Cormack OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO DOWNEY
MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING UNIFORM FEE SCHEDULE.
City Clerk Young affirmed the Proof of Publication. Hearing no objections,
it was so ordered to receive and file.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -1-
Administrative Services Director Powell presented the staff report pursuant
to the Agenda Memo dated December 13, 1988. Mr. Powell explained that a single
Resolution has been prepared by staff in an attempt to simplify the fee
process. He added that there are several Ordinances to be amended, citing the
purpose of these changes is to take the fees out of the Ordinance and change the
Ordinance to allow the setting of the fee via Resolution.
Council clarified with City Attorney Thorson that Council can still set the
policies as to the criteria to be used in the waiving or refunding of fees for
undue hardship or for good cause.
City Clerk Young advised no correspondence had been received on this
matter.
Mayor Cormack called for those in the audience who wished to to speak in
favor of or in opposition to the proposed amendment. No one came forward.
It was moved by Council Member Barb, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and
unanimously carried to close the Public Hearing.
City Clerk Young advised of a correction to the Resolution on page 1,
paragraph 4, lines 3 and 4, to read "to be effective from and after the 13th
(thirteenth) day of December, 1988, and where applicable the effective day of
the Ordinances."
Administrative Services Director Powell specified the Resolution does not
include any water rates, building permit fees, and electrical permit fees that
are set by Ordinance and Resolution in a separate Public Hearing process under
State law.
RESOLUTION NO. 5086
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING A UNIFORM SCHEDULE OF FEES AND REPEALING RESOLUTIONS
4444, 4867, 4848, AND 4984
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member
Hayden, seconded by Council Member Paul, and unanimously carried to waive
further reading and to adopt.
City Clerk Young clarified with City Attorney Thorson that the titles of
all seven Ordinances could be read at one time and one vote taken to introduce
the Ordinances.
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 3712, SECTION 3722 AND SECTION 3725 OF THE
DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH SAID SECTIONS RELATE TO SYSTEM PERMIT
EXPIRATION AND FEES; PERMIT REINSTATEMENT AND PERMIT REVOCATION NOTICE
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 6407 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE,
WHICH SAID SECTION RELATES TO POLICE PERMIT FEES
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 6525 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH
SAID SECTION RELATES TO APPLICATION FEES FOR AUTOMOBILES FOR HIRE
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 6554.1 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH
SAID SECTION RELATES TO EMPLOYEES OF MASSAGE PARLORS
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -2-
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 6703 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE, WHICH
SAID SECTION RELATES TO FEE FOR FIRE AND CLOSING -OUT SALES
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 6802 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE,
WHICH SAID SECTION RELATES TO PERMIT APPLICATION
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING SECTION 7309 AND SECTION 7317 OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE,
WHICH SAID SECTIONS RELATE TO DISCONNECTION FOR NON PAYMENT
AND METER TESTING
The Ordinances were read by title
Paul, seconded by Council Member Boggs,
reading and to introduce the Ordinances.
only. It was moved by Council Member
and unanimously carried to waive further
Prior to the foregoing vote, Administrative Services Director Powell
clarified for Council that the changes made in the Ordinances allow the fees to
be set by Resolution as opposed to having to amend the Municipal Code.
Mayor Cormack OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING ON APPEAL TO ZONE VARIANCE NO. 597
FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 11941 RIVES AVENUE.
City Clerk Young affirmed the Proof of Publication. Hearing no objections,
it was so ordered to receive and file.
City Planner Yoshiki presented the staff report as set forth in the Agenda
Memo dated December 13, 1988, and recommended that Council adopt the Resolution
reaffirming the decision of the Planning Commission and deny Zone Variance No.
597 (circular driveway on property zoned R1-5000).
Mr. Yoshiki narrated a slide presentation showing the subject property from
Rives Avenue; existing conforming driveway on the property; area where existing
nonconforming former circular driveway had been located; and the surrounding
houses and properties. He also reported to Council that a frontage of 70 feet
is required pursuant to the Downey Municipal Code and the Applicant's frontage
is 66 feet, and expressed concerned of setting a precedent for establishing two
driveways on R-1 properties with less than the required frontage.
City Clerk Young advised one item of correspondence had been received on
December 9, 1988, from Nancy Mahaffey (letter was typed with no signature)
stating support for the Zone Variance and listing typed names and addresses of
thirteen other surrounding property owners, she said also supported the Zone
Variance. Copies of this correspondence had previously been distributed to
Council and the Planning Department. Hearing no objections, it was so ordered
to receive and file the letter.
Mayor Cormack asked the Applicant to come forward and present his case.
Mr. Deepak Bondade, 11941 Rives Ave., explained his reasons for requesting
the Zone Variance as follows: He said that the contractor who was performing
work on his property removed part of the existing circular driveway without the
knowledge he would not be able to replace it pursuant to the Downey Municipal
Code; stated the previous circular driveway had been in existence for thirty
years; felt that the safety factor was important so they would not have to back
their vehicles onto Rives Avenue, and that their family and friends could park
in the driveway and not on the street; specified there was only a four foot
difference in what the Municipal Code required; said the front setback of the
house had not been changed due to remodeling (second story was added to
residence); cited circular driveway enhances his property as well as the
neighborhood; remarked a Downey City Inspector told him the work was going fine;
mentioned the driveway aprons are already in; and informed Council he had
checked with his neighbors and they were in support of the Zone Variance. Mr.
Bondade also presented a slide presentation showing his residence as well as
other residences in his neighborhood that also have circular driveways.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -3-
8589
Mr. Bondade submitted to City Clerk Young and Council a packet containing
eighteen letters from surrounding neighbors expressing support of the Zone
Variance. Hearing no objections, the letters were received and filed.
Mayor Cormack called for those in the audience who wished to speak in favor
of Zone Variance No. 597. The following person came forward:
Mrs. Arlyne Beattie, 7805 Cole St., said she has lived across from the
property in question for thirty years and there has been a circular driveway on
that property for the entire time she has lived at that location. She feels
this is a very heavily traveled street and it is much easier to drive out of the
driveway than back out. Mrs. Beattie stated she is in favor of the Zone
Variance.
Mayor Cormack called for those in the audience who wished to speak in
opposition to the Zone Variance. There were none.
It was moved by Council Member Barb, seconded by Council Member Hayden, and
unanimously carried to close the Public Hearing.
City Planner Yoshiki clarified for Council that if the Applicant had not
started to replace (totally removed) or repair the circular driveway, he would
have been allowed to keep the driveway with 10 percent repairs a year.
It was moved by Council Member Paul, seconded by Council Member Hayden, and
unanimously carried to approve Zone Variance No. 597; and direct staff to
prepare a Resolution reflecting said determination.
Prior to the preceding vote, the following discussions ensued:
Council discussed letters from surrounding neighbors in support of the Zone
Variance; fact that there is only a four foot difference from the required
frontage of seventy feet; Applicant would be re-establishing what had already
been on the property; value of property is upgraded; contractor removed circular
driveway without knowledge of the Downey Municipal Code; and safety factor
regarding driving out of driveway rather than backing out onto Rives Avenue.
Council further discussed that the City has very specific requirements that
allow Variances to be granted; cannot have the old code and the new; present
Municipal Code does not allow Council the flexability they might wish; concrete
apron would have to be removed from in front of the residence; and the issue
that the Downey Municipal Code allows for a twenty foot front yard setback
unless there is a prevailing setback.
After the preceding action, Mayor Cormack felt that Council should view
the property and ruled to reconsider the foregoing action at the next Council
Meeting.
It was moved by Member Paul, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and carried
4-1 (Mayor Cormack voting no) to overturn the Chair's ruling.
Prior to the foregoing vote, Council Member Barb expressed strong concern
as to the circumstances leading up to the removal of the existing circular
driveway, why it was removed, and whether the Applicant (owner) had knowledge at
the time the driveway was removed he could not replace it. He clarified with
the City Attorney it was permissible to question the Applicant, Mr. Bondade,
again.
Council Member Barb asked the Applicant, Mr. Bonade, if on August 18, 1987,
whether he spoke to the Planning staff personally when permits were taken out to
remodel his home, and whereby he was also told he could not remove the driveway
and replace it. Mr. Bondade responded, he was not aware of any such
conversation. He said his general contractor handled all the permits with the
City.
Mayor Cormack requested that staff look at this type of Ordinance so that
residents are encouraged to keep their property up.
The meeting recessed at 9:02 p.m. and reconvened at 9:10 p.m. with all
Council Members present.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -4-
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Items not on Agenda
Mrs. Myrtle Risley, 7938 Phlox St., complained regarding the noise from
Paramount Chevrolet and Downey Welding, and felt that business should not be
conducted at the detriment to the surrounding neighborhood.
Mr. Robert Bechtelheimer, President of the Downey Kiwanis Club, 10400
Paramount Blvd.#9, spoke regarding Kiwanettes lOk Run to assist Rancho Los
Amigos and the proceeds being donated to a communications project at that
facility. He asked for Council support in obtaining approval for this event as
they have not heard anything yet from the City.
Mayor Cormack responded Council had been talking to the City Manager and
staff and did not have an answer yet.
Council Member Hayden commented that organizations such as this involving
the young people in the community should be encouraged.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Agenda Items VI-C-1, Completion of Cash Contract No. 537 - Fire Station No.
2 Remodel, 9556 Imperial Highway; and VI-C-4, Cash Contract No. 564 - South City
Feeder Water Transmission Mains, were removed at the request of Council Member
Boggs.
Agenda Items VI-C-2, Cash Contract No. 561 - Rio Hondo Golf Course Service
Yard Gas Island/Tank Replacement/Pavement Improvements; VI-E-4, Agreement
between City of Downey and the Rio Hondo Temporary Home; and VI-F-3, Four -Way
Stop at the Intersection of fifth Street and La Reina Avenue, were removed at
the request of Council Member Barb.
Agenda Item VI-F-1, Adjustment of Water Rates, was removed at the request
of Council Member Paul.
Agenda Item VI-C-3, Cash Contract No. 563 - Construction of Sidewalk and
Wheelchair Ramps on Cheyenne Avenue, Paramount Boulevard to Downey Avenue, was
removed at the request of Council Member Hayden.
MINUTES: Adjourned Regular Meeting, November 15, 1988; Regular Meeting,
November 15, 1988; Adjourned Regular Meeting, November 22, 1988; and
Regular Meeting, November 22, 1988: Approve.
CASH CONTRACT MO. 566 - TREE TRIMMING, CITYWIDE: Approve specifications
and grant authority to advertise for bids: Approve.
GENERAL WARRANTS #45882-46478, $2,219,709.97: Approve.
ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT - FISCAL YEAR 1987-88: Approve.
MANPOWER CHANGE FOR JOINT FIRE DISPATCH CENTER: Authorize increase in
manpower level for Fire Dispatch Program and appropriate an additional
$20,000 in personnel costs: Approve.
CONTRACT/HEALTH INSURANCE CLAIMS ADMINISTRATION WITH HELLER & ASSOCIATES:
Authorize staff to enter into an agreement with Heller & Associates to
provide claims administration for City's self -funded medical indemnity
plan: Approve.
RENEWAL OF OPERATING AGREEMENT WITH SECURITY PACIFIC NATIONAL BANK FOR
COMPENSATING BALANCE PROGRAM: Approve.
RESOLUTION NO. 5087 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DESIGNATING PRISCILLA STREET A THROUGH STREET AT ITS
INTERSECTION WITH KIPWAY DRIVE
INVESTMENT POLICY - 1989: Approve.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -5-
8551
RESOLUTION NO. 5089 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
APPROVING ZONE VARIANCE NO. 579
RESOLUTION NO. 5090 (ADOPT)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 4914 DATED JULY 28, 1987, AND ADJUSTING
THE WAGE FOR THE PART-TIME HOURLY CLASSIFICATION OF LIBRARY PAGE
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Hayden,
and carried by the following vote to waive full reading of the Resolutions and
to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar as recommended:
AYES: 5 Council Members
ORDINANCES: None (See Hearings)
Paul, Barb, Boggs, Hayden, Cormack
RESOLUTIONS: None (See Hearings and Consent Calendar)
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
STREET SWEEPING CONTRACTOR SPECIFICATIONS
Public Works Director Ralph summarized the Agenda Memo dated December 13,
1988, entitled "Street Sweeping Contractor Specifications (based on alternate
side street sweeping).
There was a motion to discuss.
Council discussed the specifications with emphasis on 1) Section 14(b)
relative to type of equipment; 2) number 1 on the memo page relative to sweeping
experience on alternate sides of the street; and 3) whether the specifications
are longer than necessary.
Council Member Paul asked about the ability to use a broom when required
(as opposed to the vacuum equipment) and Public Works Director Ralph stated that _
the current street sweeping company has that ability. Council Member Paul
further stated that he had done further research on the cost of alternate side
street sweeping.
Council Member Barb stated that he is against going out to bid for
alternate side street sweeping due to th expense.
It was moved by Council Member Barb, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and
carried 4-1 as amended (Council Member Hayden voting no) to return to the
previous plan, establish the permit process, sweep both sides same day, and not
go to bid on alternate side street sweeping; but allow alternate side sweeping
to be posted as determined by staff to be necessary.
It was moved by Council Member Paul, seconded by Council Member Hayden, and
carried 3-2 (Council Members Boggs and Cormack voting no) to amend the foregoing
motion to provide that the City go to weekly street sweeping six months after
instigation of the above plan.
Prior to the preceding vote, the following person approached the podium to
speak:
Mr. Art Marcella, 12736 Downey Ave., expressed opposition to permit
parking.
CITY BUDGET POLICY
City Manager Davis summarized the staff report pursuant to the Agenda Memo
dated December 13, 1988, which listed three options if Council wishes to change
the existing budget policy.
Council Member Barb discussed that the City has been funding 100 percent
salaries the last few years, but only filling staff 85 to 90 percent. He
recommended salary savings available could be allocated for other City uses;
possibility of salary saving funds coming before Council before determination of
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -6-
8592
spending of such funds; possibility that no salary savings could be transferred
to other uses, other than salaries, without a vote from the Council; possibility
of new items not budgeted, over $500, would require a Council vote, and under
$500 would require a memo to the Council indicating that the City Manager felt
it was necessary to make the purchase (items not scheduled, not in the budget,
and not intended to be purchased, unless there is an emergency which would be
within the scope of the City Manager's responsbility); items not budgeted, but
requires replacement and is over $500, would require a Council vote; any
transfer of specified budgetary funds would be done within the Department for
which they were originally budgeted; and the City Manager would monitor and keep
written files if Council were to question the process. Council Member Barb
suggested staff may wish to refine these recommendations and if it was felt that
these are too restrictive, give examples where it is felt they will not work.
Hearing no objections, it was the consensus of the Council to continue this
item to the next Council Meeting (January 10, 1989).
ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
CASH CONTRACT NO. 537 - FIRE STATION NO. 2 REMODEL, 9556 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY
Council Member Boggs removed this item from the Consent Calendar to express
her disapproval of Change Orders amounting close to $9,000. She feels it makes
the original bids inaccurate.
Fire Chief Irwin explained that in most cases there were overrides they had
not anticipated prior to the bidding process, such as the Code requirement for
tempered glass and the upgrade of the electrical service. He clarified for
Council that these two items had been left out of the specifications.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Barb, and
unanimously carried to accept the improvements constructed and approve the
increase in project cost of $8,769.65 with funding by the Community Development
Block grant Fund.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 561 - RIO HONDO GOLF COURSE SERVICE YARD, GAS ISLAND/TANK
REPLACEMENT/PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS (ACCOUNT NOS. 52-17528 AND 52-17529)
Public Works Director Ralph clarified that the gas tanks are used by the
maintenance equipment on the golf course. Mr. Ralph also responded that the
larger equipment, such as lawnmowers, etc., are moved from park to park and
although they are not licensed to drive on the street, they are moved by
trailer. He also mentioned the City owns the majority of the equipment. Mr.
Ralph was asked to clarify for Council that the contract for the maintenance
contractor hired to maintain the golf course included a requirement that the
City supply a fuel facility. He said he would return to Council with this
information. Mr. Ralph also clarified that the maintenance contractor maintains
other golf courses in the area.
It was moved by Council Member Barb, seconded by Council Member Hayden, and
unanimously carried to continue this item to the Council Meeting of January 10,
1989, so that staff could supply further information on maintenance contract.
CASH CONTRACT NO. 563 - CONSTRUCTION OF SIDEWALK AND WHEELCHAIR RAMPS ON
CHEYENNE AVENUE, PARAMOUNT BOULEVARD TO DOWNEY AVENUE
Council Member Hayden asked for clarification on the responsibility to
grade and reseed grass around areas where sidewalks have been constructed
(property owner side).
Public Works Director Ralph responded that on private property it is the
property owner's responsibility, but the City does minor grading (since they
have the equipment already there). He explained the City contracts for concrete
installation, not landscaping, this cost is borne by the adjacent property owner
and it is legally their responsibiity.
Council Member Hayden expressed disapproval as to the condition the
neighborhood is often left.
It was moved by Council Member Hayden, seconded by -Council member Barb, and
unanimously carried to accept the contract work and authorize staff to file a
Notice of Completion.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -7-
85',33
CASH CONTRACT NO. 564 - SOUTH CITY FEEDER WATER TRANSMISSION MAINS -
ADDITIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES
Council Member Boggs removed this item from the Consent Calendar as the
attachment referred to in the Agenda Memo dated December 13, 1988, was not
attached.
Public Works Director Ralph explained this is basically the original
agreement the City signed with the Contractor to do plans and specifications for
a water main on Paramount Boulevard down and across Imperial Highway and up to
Woodruff Avenue. He added this agreement extends the contract to the same
conditions of pay to construct the line that goes from the end of Imperial
Highway to Paramount Boulevard to the Rancho Los Amigos Development, and some
work that extends on Imperial Highway and Old River School Road. He specified
that all costs involved in this project are refundable and fully paid by the
County of Los Angeles.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Paul, and
unanimously carried to approve additional engineering services, that will be
reimbursed by the County of Los Angeles, in the amount of $28,000.
AGREEMENT BETWEEN CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE RIO HONDO TEMPORARY HOME
Council Member Barb removed this item from the Consent Calendar to advise
he will be voting in opposition to this.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs, seconded by Council Member Paul, and
carried 3-2 (Council Members Barb and Hayden voting no) to authorize the Mayor
to execute the agreement between the City of Downey and the Rio Hondo Temporary
Home.
ADJUSTMENT OF WATER RATES
Council Member Paul removed this item from the Consent Calendar and
expressed concern regarding comments by the Water Advisory Board at their
November 16, 1988 meeting. He also clarified with Public Works Director Ralph
that the water rates have increased 25 to 30 percent during the last year for
current operation and capital improvements. Council Member Paul asked for
additional information and facts before pursuing this matter further.
Mr. Ralph commented that it has been tradition over the past several years
to look at and make recommendations on the water rates every year, as opposed to
waiting every five years or so and having a large increase.
Council Member Paul expressed concern over the water quality issue and was
advised by Mr. Ralph this would be discussed at a future meeting.
Mayor Cormack voiced strong opposition to any water rate increase so soon
after the 25 to 30 percent rate increase this year.
Mr. Ralph responded if this was the wish of Council, he said staff would
need direction as to the amount of money that goes toward capital improvements
or to reduce some portion of their operations.
Council Member Barb said the City raised the rates previously with the
objective of saving the City about ten million dollars in interest in the next
few years; he related this has been successful so far. Council Member Barb
remarked this is the first time the City has ever had a complete system that was
adequate with an increase in quality as well as service. He said he understood
at that time the City would still have to do cost of living increases each year
to maintain the basic services. Council Member Barb stated he feels a previous
commitment has already been made.
Council Member Boggs reiterated Council Member Barb's statements.
Council Member Hayden explained she was not involved in the previous water
rate increase and would like additional information.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -8-
RESOLUTION NO.
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
ESTABLISHING WATER RATES FOR THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 4948
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member
Barb, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and failed 2-3 (Council Members Paul,
Cormack, and Hayden voting no) to waive further reading and to adopt.
It was moved by Council Member Boggs and seconded by Council Member Hayden
to reconsider this matter. Hearing no objections, it was so ordered.
Council Member Boggs reminded the Council of their October 27, 1987
direction to staff when Council rejected all bids for water bonds and set forth
a pay as you go procedure. She indicated this would be in conflict with that
previous direction.
Council Member Paul mentioned that water quality had not been discussed;
inquired as to how much capital improvements has been done in the past year;
would like sufficient background and information, and a breakdown of costs.
City Manager Davis responded that the 1988-89 Budget Report projected a 4
percent increase in water rates and that was approved by Council in June 1988.
It was moved by Council Member Paul, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and
unanimously carried to continue this item for further information.
FOUR-WAY STOP AT THE INTERSECTION OF FIFTH STREET AND LA REINA AVENUE
Council Member Barb removed this item from the Consent Calendar to discuss
the following: There are a number of areas in the City that have become
restrictive to travel during rush hour, particularly for Downey residents; felt
the problem at this intersection is due to parked vehicles; and mentioned
additional signage has been put at location. He asked Public Works Director
Ralph to give Council an update on this location since the additional signs have
been put in.
Mr. Ralph responded that there are about four accidents per year at this
intersection that are considered correctable by a stop sign. He said there has
been no improvement at this intersection since the signage was changed (yellow
warning signs), but as the signs only went in a few months ago, he said it would
take a year before this could be addressed more fully.
Council Member Barb asked that the City not do this type of signage unless
it is absolutely necessary.
RESOLUTION NO. 5088
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
DESIGNATING THE INTERSECTION OF FIFTH STREET AND LA REINA AVENUE
AS A FOUR-WAY STOP INTERSECTION
The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member
Paul, seconded by Council Member Boggs, and carried 4-1 (Council Member Barb
voting no) to waive further reading and to adopt.
OTHER BUSINESS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDA
STAFF MEMBERS: None
CITY COUNCIL:
Council Member Paul
1. Asked that DARE Program (to include 8th grade) be placed
on future Agenda.
2. Asked the status of Recruitment of Design Review Board Members.
3. Asked the status of Charter Review Board Report.
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -9-
Council Member Barb:
1. Asked for report regarding Barking Dog Nuisance and role of SEAACA
and City Prosecutor enforcement.
Mayor Cormack:
1. Announced Downey PTA (Helps Program) has invited City Council to come
by to view food distribution at Unsworth School from December 19-
23. The City dontated $2,000 to this Program.
Council Member Boggs:
1. Invited those who are interested to accompany her to the Rio
Hondo Temporary, Home in the City of Norwalk. She said the
residents are allowed to stay at the home sixty days and are
encouraged to go to work. Council Member Boggs advised that
people with mental illness, drug or alcohol problems are admitted.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 P.M.
JenA�ouier<- asurer
Council Minutes 12/13/88 -10-