HomeMy WebLinkAbout3. PLN-18-00036 2017 General Plan STAFF REPORT
PLANNING DIVISION
DATE: AUGUST 1, 2018
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBMITTED BY: ALDO E. SCHINDLER, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
REVIEWED BY: DAVID BLUMENTHAL, CITY PLANNER
PREPARED BY: KEVIN NGUYEN, ASSISTANT PLANNER
SUBJECT: 2017 GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT
REPORT SUMMARY
The 2017 General Plan Annual Progress Report summarizes the City’s progress with regards to
implementation of the goals, policies and programs of the City’s General Plan. It also summarizes
the activities of the Planning Commission and the Community Development Department from
January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2017. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission
approve and forward the 2017 General Plan Annual Progress Report to the City Council.
DISCUSSION
The report has been prepared in compliance with California Government Code Section 65400 et.
seq., which mandates the Planning Commission annually submit to the City Council, State Office of
Planning and Research, and the Department of Housing and Community Development the status
of the General Plan and the progress the City has made on implementing the goals and policies of
the General Plan.
During 2017, 6,528 people were assisted at the Planning counter. During the year, the Planning
Division also accepted and processed 202 applications including Administrative, Planning
Commission, and legislative applications to the City Council.
The Planning Commission conducted 20 meetings and considered 34 items. A majority of the
items considered by the Planning Commission were Special Event and Conditional Use Permits.
Some of the larger projects that the Planning Commission considered include:
• Rock & Brews (467 Stonewood St)— The new 7,440 square foot restaurant with a 960
square foot outdoor dining area was to replace the formerly Garden Buffet Restaurant at
this location.
• New Industrial Building (12120 Woodruff Blvd) - The new 17,656 square foot one-story
industrial building along with 91 parking spaces.
• Starbucks (7966 Florence Ave) - The new 1,785 square foot drive-thru Starbucks to be
located at the previous Walgreens on the southwest corner of Paramount Blvd and
Florence Ave.
Agenda Page 1
2017 General Plan Annual Report
August 1, 2018 - Page 2
In 2017, the Building and Safety Division issued 2,415 permits for a total construction valuation
of $145,865,635. These permits are for new construction, residential additions, and other minor
improvements such as electrical, re-roof, plumbing, and window change-outs.
A copy of the 2017 General Plan Annual Progress Report is attached hereto for the Planning
Commission’s consideration. The report is broken into three major sections, an introduction, a
review of the department activities, and a review of the General Plan policies that have been
implemented in 2017.
ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS
Staff has reviewed the General Plan Annual Progress Report for compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Upon completion of this review, staff determined that this
request is categorically exempt from CEQA, pursuant to Guideline Section No. 15306 (Class 6,
Information Collection). Categorical Exemptions are projects, which have been determined not
to have a significant effect on the environment and which have been exempted from the
requirements of CEQA. Class 6 consists of projects which solely encompass information
collecting and reporting, such as the annual report.
Agenda Page 2
11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, CA
2017 General Plan Annual Report
Community Development Department
Agenda Page 3
2
City of Downey
11111 Brookshire Avenue
Downey, CA 90241
City Council
(at the time of adoption)
Sean Ashton, Mayor
District 2
Rick Rodriguez, Mayor Pro-Tem
District 3
Blanca Pacheco
District 1
Fernando Vasquez
District 4
Alex Saab
District 5
Planning Commission
(at the time of adoption)
Patrick Owens, Chairperson
District 2
Steven Dominguez, Vice-Chairperson
District 3
Miguel Duarte
District 1
Matias Flores
District 4
Nolveris Frometa
District 5
Agenda Page 4
3
City Staff
City Administration
Gilbert A. Livas
City Manager
John Oskoui
Assistant City Manager
Community Development Department
Aldo E. Schindler
Director of Community Development
David Blumenthal
City Planner
Jessica Flores
Economic Development & Housing
Manager
Richard Hicks
Building Official
Carrie Rios
Senior Code Enforcement
Officer
Kevin Nguyen
Assistant Planner
Agenda Page 5
4
Introduction Page 5
Executive Summary
Background Information
Report Acceptance Date
Community Development Updates Page 7
Planning Division
Building and Safety Division
Code Enforcement Unit
Economic Development & Housing
General Plan Implementation Status Page 16
Chapter 1: Land Use
Chapter 2: Circulation
Chapter 3: Housing
Chapter 4: Conservation
Chapter 5: Safety
Chapter 6: Noise
Chapter 7: Open Space
Chapter 8: Design
Chapter 9: Economic Development
Table of Contents
Agenda Page 6
5
Executive Summary
The City of Downey’s 2017 General Plan Annual Progress Report is prepared by the Community
Development Department with input from various City Departments including Public Works, Fire, Police,
Parks and Recreation. The report is indented to provide information on the measurable outcomes and
actions associated with the implementation of all of the General Plan elements. It also reviews the activities
of the Community Development Department including the Planning, Building and Safety, Economic
Development & Housing, and Code Enforcement.
This City of Downey General Plan is a long range comprehensive plan that will control and regulate land uses
and development in the City. The individual Elements (land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open
space, noise, safety, design, and economic development) of this General Plan contain policies and programs
that will guide future development in the City.
California Government Code Section 65400 et seq. requires the City to annually review the General Plan. An
annual report should be prepared for review and approval by the Planning Commission/City Council and
forwarded to the State Office of Planning and Research and the State Housing and Community Development
office.
Introduction
Agenda Page 7
6
Background Information
Downey is 12.8 square miles in area. Its topography is relatively level. The City is located in the
southeastern part of Los Angeles County, about 12 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. It is bounded
by: the Rio Hondo River channel to the west; Telegraph Road to the north; the San Gabriel River channel to
the east; and Gardendale Street and Foster Road to the south. Cities bordering Downey include Pico Rivera,
Santa Fe Springs, Norwalk, Bellflower, Paramount, South Gate, and Commerce. The City of Downey is
provided regional access by four interstate highways: the I -605 Freeway, the I-5 Freeway, the I-105 Freeway,
and the I-710 Freeway. These freeways provide access to major employment centers including downtown Los
Angeles and employment centers in Orange County
The City of Downey has matured from its farming roots from its founding in 1873 to become the
premier city in the southeast area of Los Angeles County. Downey is one of the larger suburban cities in the
region with a population of 114,146 residents (Source: State of California, Department of Finance, E-1
Population Estimates for Cities, Counties and the State with Annual Percent Change — January 1, 2017 and
2018. Sacramento, California, May 2018).
The issues addressed by General Plan Vision 2025 will work towards achieving this vision by adhering
to the values providing excellent housing, education, employment, and recreation opportunities plus the
mission of providing a safe, convenient, and attractive community for those that live, work, or visit Downey.
Department Organizational Chart
Acceptance Date
The 2017 General Plan Annual Progress Report was reviewed by the Planning Commission on August 1, 2018,
and accepted by the City Council on _______________, 2018.
Agenda Page 8
7
Community Development
Department Accomplishments
Agenda Page 9
8
The Planning Division maintains and implements the Downey Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance,
General Plan, and prepares other specialized planning documents. The division reviews development
requests for conformance with the City's planning policies and standards, and conducts
environmental review under the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
The list below outlines the activities of the Planning Division from January 2017 through December
2017. The day-to-day planning activities include:
Administrating the City’s Zoning Ordinance (Development Code)
Answering public inquiries on the telephone and over the public counter
Processing entitlement applications for the Planning Commission and City Council
Reviewing and approving business license applications for zoning compliance
Reviewing development plans for compliance with City standards (Plan Checks)
Counter Activity
Counter activity represents the number of counter visits recorded in the Planning Division. Records
of counter visits are kept and tracked on a monthly basis. Historically, counter activity has been
greater during summer, while lower in the winter. In 2017, the total counter visits were 6,528.
August was the busiest month of counter activity with 662 visits.
Planning Division
463
416
568 553 558
657
572
662
561 585
537
396
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
Monthly Counter Activity 2017
Agenda Page 10
9
Planning Applications
Planning applications in 2017, including Administrative,
Planning Commission, and legislative items to the City
Council, totaled 202. Also, Planning staff reviewed
business licenses and conducted plan check review to
ensure the proposed business, improvement and new
construction are in compliance to zoning code.
Cost of Services (Fee) Study
In 2017, The City hired Matrix Consulting Group to
analyze the “Cost of Services (Fee) Study” for service
activities related to Planning, Building & Safety, Public
Works Engineering, Fire, Police, Park & Recreation,
Library, Columbia Memorial Space Center, and the
Theatre. The study was to provide a tool for
understanding current service levels, the cost and
demand for those services and what fees for service
should be charged.
Imperial Highway Plan
Staff worked with consultants to develop a strategic
plan that contains economic development goals and
strategies, as well as implementation plan outlining the
timing, anticipated cost and potential funding sources.
Planning Applications
Temporary Signs 39
Sign Permits 45
Conditional Use Permits 14
Sidewalk/ Parking Sales 23
Fireworks Stands 17
Christmas tree Lots / Pumpkin
Patches 4
Special Events 18
Minor Modifications 4
Zone Changes 2
Tentative Parcel/ Tract Maps 4
General Plan Consistency 1
Promenade Develmt. Agreement 1
Planned Sign Programs 1
Downtown Outdoor Dining 1
Downtown Parking Credit 1
Code Amendments 5
Lot line Adjustments 4
Miscellaneous Actions 1
Minor Conditional Use Permit 2
Variances 1
Site Plan Review 9
Temporary Use of Land Permit 1
Specific Plan Amendment 2
Final Tract/ Parcel Map 2
Street Faire
Community Development staff participated in the annual Street Faire on May 7, 2017, which occurred on
Downey Avenue between Stewart & Gray Road and Phlox Street. Staff members were presented
throughout the day to provide information on City programs, policies and answer general questions in
regards to development in the City.
Agenda Page 11
10
Rancho South Campus
The City of Downey applied for a grant to create a specific plan for the area and plan a station for the fu-
ture Eco-Rapid line. METRO has awarded the City a $425,000 grant. On June 13, 2017, the City Council
approved an agreement with Kimley-Horn to begin preparing the specific plan. The City has kicked off
the specific plan project. Los Angeles County has begun the environmental scoping process. Metro has
also begun their environmental review. A community meeting took place on Thursday, November 16,
2017 at the Barbara J. Riley Center to receive community input regarding the proposed specific plan.
Approximately 100 members from the community attended the meeting.
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission conducts public hearings on most entitlements, including new buildings, condi-
tionally permitted uses, variances, etc. On legislative items such as General Plan Amendments (GPA),
Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, and Zoning Changes, the Planning Commission acts as an advisory
body to the City Council. In 2017, the Planning Commission conducted 20 meetings during which they
considered 34 items.
Below is a list of some of the major projects that were approved by the City:
Rock & Brews (467 Stonewood St)— The new 7,440 square foot restaurant with a 960 square foot
outdoor dining area was to replace the formerly Garden Buffet Restaurant at this location. The
new restaurant is now open.
New Industrial Building (12120 Woodruff Blvd) - The new 17,656 square foot one-story industrial
building along with 91 parking spaces. The project’s plans are currently under review for building
permits.
Starbucks (7966 Florence Ave) - The new 1,785 square foot drive-thru Starbucks to be located at
the previous Walgreens on the southwest corner of Paramount Blvd and Florence Ave. Project
plans have been approved and are pending building permit issuance.
Agenda Page 12
11
The Economic Development and Housing Division oversees and is responsible for facilitating the
growth of the local economy in Downey. More importantly, the Division works with City staff, local
business entrepreneurs, developers, contractors, and the Downey Chamber of Commerce, to
attract and retain quality development projects in Downey. In 2017, the Economic Development
Division staff facilitated several key projects in Downey.
Counter Activity
In 2017, the total counter visits for Economic Development and Housing Divisions were 448. June
was the busiest month of counter activity with 111 visits.
Professional Services Agreement with New City America
New City America and City staff continued to work with the downtown property owners to
determine the feasibility of forming a property assessment district and are now ready to initiate the
final phase of this effort. The Community Benefit District’s (“CBD”) purpose was to increase
commerce, increase property values, attract new businesses and development, and manage all
aspects of Downtown Downey. The CBD provided the downtown property owners with
independent, property owner-controlled finances to better control and fund special events,
marketing, promotional activities, public space development, security, maintenance and
beautification, property enhancements, and the creation of a new property owner -controlled non-
profit corporation to spend and manage these funds. The CBD was forecasted to raise at least
$253,589 annually.
(This space left intentionally blank)
Economic Development & Housing
Agenda Page 13
12
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) provides the City of Downey
(“City”) with its annual entitlement of Community Development Block Grant (“CDBG”) and Home
Investment Partnership (“HOME”) grants. These two federal grants are available to the City for a
variety of community development activities including affordable housing activities,
neighborhood improvement programs, economic development strategies, improvement of public
facilities, and support for needed public services. The CDBG and HOME grants can be used for a
wide range of eligible activities, which primarily benefit low- and moderate-income households.
In 2017, the Housing Division offered a Home Improvement Rebate and Grant incentive which
encouraged a higher leveraging of public funds with private investment. The Rebate Program
was offered to households who fell within the 80 percent of the Annual Median Income (“AMI”)
as defined by HUD. The Grant Program was offered to households who fell within the 50 percent
AMI as defined by HUD. Both incentive programs were available to owner-occupied single family
residential properties with the goal of processing approximately 20 projects during the fiscal
year. In 2017, The Housing Division completed 12 home improvement projects. Also, through
the down payment assistance the city’s First-Time Homebuyer Program provided, two families
in were able to purchase and move into their own home.
During the reporting period, the Housing Division co-hosted two (2) Certificate Management
Training workshops with the Fair Housing Foundation. The training was available to landlords,
managers, property owners, attorneys, realtors, and management companies at Downey’s City
Library in the Cormack room. The training was a certificate program that covered general
guidelines, lead disclosure, rental process guidelines, people with disabilities, modifications and
accommodations, rules for tenants with minor children, occupancy standards, advertising
guidelines, prohibited practices, and sexual harassment and hate crimes. In addition, the Housing
Division co-hosted a Tenant Rights Workshop with the Fair Housing Foundation to anyone
interested in learning basic fair housing rights and responsibilities, specific concerns, and
obligations and guidelines.
Economic Development & Housing
Agenda Page 14
13
The Code Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing the Downey Municipal codes that
relate to residential and business property maintenance standards, including business
licensing. Code Enforcement also enforces building, health and safety standards related to
environmental protection and neighborhood preservation. The Division works in close
cooperation with all City departments and the City Prosecutor to educate the public and gain
the willing compliance of violators.
In 2017, the total counter visits for Code Enforcement Unit were 849. August was the busiest
month of counter activity with 140 visits.
Code Enforcement activity for the year of 2017 involved 5,805 new and existing cases for
various property violations (i.e. commercial, residential, public street, park and
recreational). March had the highest number of new cases generated with 185 cases. In
addition to conduct property violation inspections, Code Enforcement Officers conducted
inspections on yard sale permits and were proactive in issuing administrative citations.
Code Enforcement Unit
117
180 185
150
133 132
147
171
134
64
114
84
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
Num
ber of Cases
Month
Code Cases by month for 2017
Agenda Page 15
14
The Building and Safety Division is responsible for a variety of tasks that include issuing permits,
processing plan check submittals, and inspections. The Building and Safety Division reviews all plans
and permits for compliance with the Zoning and Building regulations. The 2016 California Building
Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24) was adopted and went into effect on
January 1, 2017.
In 2017, the Building and Safety Division accepted 2,415 permit applications and issued 2,393
building permits. The total valuation for all permits issued was $145,865,635. These applications
include all construction related projects and installation of mechanical and utility equipment. Also,
there were a total of 135 new residential dwellings constructed in 2017. In addition, the Building &
Safety Inspectors have conducted 12,552 inspections.
Building & Safety’s counter activity has always been busy during summer. In 2017, the total counter
visits were 12,576. August was the busiest month of counter activity with 1,426 visits.
Building and Safety Division
882
754
1202
946
1049
1196 1119
1426
1090 1123
977
812
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Monthly Counter Activity 2017
Agenda Page 16
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General Plan
Implementation Status
Agenda Page 17
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The Land Use chapter establishes the policies for determining where certain land uses, such as
residential, commercial, industrial, are most desirable. The Land Use chapter defines the physical
areas in the City serving the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.
Promote housing projects and mixed use projects that include housing within areas
designated for the downtown area, transit-oriented developments, and areas in the vicinity
of the Downey Landing project (Program 1.1.2.3.). Paramount Boulevard Professional District
and Downtown Residential District continued to grow with the addition of KB Home (117
townhomes) residential project, a 28-unit condominium project at the southwest corner of
Third St and La Reina Ave, and a 6-unit apartment complex on Second Street. The addition of
these housing units expected to increase nighttime activities and pedestrian traffic in the
Downtown.
Promote the Downtown area as a destination point for entertainment, dining, civic, and
other activities (Program 1.2.2.1.). Downtown Downey continued to support and encourage
community events including outdoor events for businesses. The annual Downey Street Faire,
St. George Greek Festival, rooftop events at Mi Cielo Restaurant, Veteran and Memorial Day
Events at Bastards Canteen restaurant. These type of events have drawn large crowd to the
downtown area and created a lively environment for the community.
Adjust the codes, policies, and regulations in response to changes in land use trends
(Program 1.3.2.2.) As requested by multiple schools, staff requested the City Officials to
initiate a Zone Text Amendment to consider updating the Municipal Code to allow monument
signs for public and private schools in Downey.
Also, with the fast growing jobs in the bio-medical industry, the City Council approved a
professional service agreement with Civic Solutions to study and prepare the necessary code
amendments to achieve the City’s goal. The bio-medical industry not only includes medical
offices and care facilities, but also includes all support services such as manufacturing,
research, development, education, and pharmaceutical.
Discourage residential construction not in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood
(Program 1.4.2.1.) Staff continued to monitor and promote residential construction projects
to ensure the architecture and general appearance of the building shall be in keeping with the
character of the neighborhood.
Chapter 1 Land Use Element
Agenda Page 18
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The safe and efficient movement of people and goods through cities is provided by a circulation
system ranging from sidewalks to roadways. As population and economic growth continue, cities have
the challenge of improving the circulation system to deal with increased demands. Population and
economic growth also impact the infrastructure needed to provide utilities and other services for
those who live, work, and visit Downey.
Traffic Congestion
Maintain intersections and street segments at acceptable service levels and not worsen
those intersections and street segments currently operating at unacceptable levels (Program
2.1.1.1.). The Bellflower Boulevard at Imperial Highway Intersection improvement Project
involved widening three of the four approaches of the intersection to construct additional left -
turn lanes in the eastbound and northbound directions, in order to maintain an acceptable
level-of-service at this intersection during peak hours into the future. This project also
included truck circulation enhancements.
The Lakewood Boulevard Improvements Project (Phase 3C) involved the continuation of the
previously-completed phases of the Lakewood Boulevard Improvements Project from Gallatin
Road northerly to Telegraph Road. This project involved the widening of Lakewood Boulevard
in order to provide three lanes in each direction.
Develop a signal system master plan to promote state-of-the-art intelligent transportation
system (ITS) improvements to better service on-going traffic conditions. (Program 2.1.1.3.).
The Traffic Management Center was implemented at City Hall and the first fiber-optic traffic
signal communications systems were installed along the Lakewood Boulevard and Firestone
Boulevard corridors. Additional systems have been implemented along Florence Avenue,
Paramount Boulevard, Bellflower Boulevard, Imperial Highway and Telegraph Road. The City is
currently in the process of upgrading the system software and other elements of the TMC to
maintain pace with current technology and replace obsolete hardware and software.
In addition, the Imperial Highway Traffic Signal Communication System was installed to allow
the expansion of the city’s traffic signal communication system along Imperial Highway
between Woodruff Avenue and Old River School Road.
Chapter 2 Circulation Element
Agenda Page 19
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Encourage appropriate turn lanes and other operational improvements at major arterial
intersections identified as congested (Program 2.1.1.6.). Major capacity improvements were
added to the following intersections:
The Bellflower Boulevard at Imperial Highway Intersection Improvement Project added
additional left-turn lanes in the northbound and southbound directions as well as exclusive
right-turn lanes in the eastbound, southbound and northbound directions to accommodate
projected future traffic volume growth as well as more efficient truck circulation at the
intersection.
In addition, the City completed a series of operational improvements at several intersections
involving traffic signal upgrades, including upgrades at nine intersections at various street
locations throughout the city and upgrades to the detection systems at nine additional
intersections through the installation of video detection cameras along Imperial Highway and
Lakewood Boulevard. The city also received funding through the Federal Highway Safety
Improvement Program (HSIP) (Cycle 7) to upgrade and implement operational improvements
to the existing traffic signals at six additional intersections along Paramount Boulevard as well
as five additional intersections along Stewart & Gray Road. Also, the city received HSIP
funding (Cycle 8) to upgrade and implement operational improvements to the existing traffic
signals at three additional intersections along Imperial Highway.
Establish a development recovery fee program to require new developments and
expansions of existing developments to pay the cost of circulation improvements (Program
2.1.2.1.). The Public Works Department has collected developer fees on a case-by-case basis
through the development plan review/entitlement process. Over the last eight years, a total
of approximately $1.1 million has been collected.
Ensure the mitigation of off-site traffic impacts by development projects to the maximum
extent feasible, including the installation or upgrade of traffic signals at intersections and/or
contribution of its fair-share towards mitigating impacts (Program 2.1.2.2.). Land
development projects were reviewed on a case-by-case basis for potential traffic impact. It
was determined that if trip generation thresholds in accordance with the LA County
Congestion Management Program of 50 vehicle trips during either AM or PM peak hour are
exceeded, a traffic impact analysis study is required which will determine mitigation measures
necessary to offset the impacts created by the development on any designated CMP facilities
or the amount of development fee to be collected.
Agenda Page 20
19
Promote site designs, street patterns, and street signalization that discourage the use of local
streets as through routes (Program 2.1.2.4.). The intersection improvement projects included
under Programs 2.1.1.1 and 2.1.1.6 are intended to increase capacity at these intersections in
order to encourage through traffic on arterial streets and minimize intrusion through residential
neighborhoods .
In addition, the Lakewood Boulevard Improvement Project Phase 3C involved the widening of
the facility to provide three through lanes in each direction between Gallatin Road and
Telegraph Road in order to increase the capacity and mobility along Lakewood Boulevard to
minimize intrusion through residential neighborhoods. Furthermore, the traffic signal
communication system projects mentioned in Program 2.1.1.3 have improved mobility along the
Woodruff Avenue, Stewart & Gray Road and Old River School Road corridors which also
minimized intrusion through residential neighborhoods. Also, the city’s Traffic Calming
Program provides a framework for discouraging through traffic on local streets through a
series of traffic calming measures which are applied to local residential streets as appropriate
in response to complaints submitted by residents.
Travel Alternatives
Encourage the use of bicycling as a form of transportation for employment commuting and
business purposes, in addition to recreational purposes (Program 2.2.2.1.). Bike lanes have
been installed throughout various major streets in Downey. These bike lanes provided a healthy
option to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Each bike on the road means one less car.
Also, bike lanes have a “traffic calming "effect, meaning roads that appear narrow result in
slower vehicular speeds improving safety and increasing driver’s reaction times.
Promote home-based businesses (Program 2.2.3.4.). In 2017, the city issued 95 business
licenses for home-based business. This allows people who live in residential zoned properties
an opportunity to work from home. The majority of the licenses are on-line sale and real estate
businesses.
Truck Traffic
Co-ordinate with local, regional, and state agencies involved in mitigating truck traffic impacts
in the region (Program 2.3.1.2.). The Public Works Department continued issuing overload
permits to ensure that the correct haul routes are utilized through the city and that proper
arrangements have been made in advance. In addition, truck circulation improvements were
recently completed at the Bellflower Boulevard at Imperial Highway intersection as referenced
in Program 2.1.1.1 and 2.1.1.6.
Agenda Page 21
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Widen street right-of-way to accommodate truck turning movements (Program 2.3.1.3.).
The intersection improvement projects located along Bellflower Boulevard at Imperial
Highway included geometric enhancements to facilitate more efficient truck circulation in
addition to capacity enhancements.
Discourage truck parking on public streets (Program 2.3.2.1.). The Public Works Traffic
Division continued to implement parking prohibitions of large commercial vehicles on public
streets. DMC Section 3185 (b) prohibits the parking of commercial vehicles exceeding 6,000
lbs. manufacturer’s unladed weight or 84 inches in height or width on all public streets with
the exception of those streets located within areas zoned industrial, the vehicle is involved
with the servicing of the adjacent property or for a period not to exceed eight hours if the
vehicle has been involved in an accident or is disabled. The Downey Police Department’s
Traffic Unit continued to monitor and issue citations for those in violation.
Ensure that land uses generating high amounts of truck traffic provide compensation to the
city for projected pavement wear of public streets (Program 2.3.2.4). In 2017, approximately
$5 million was dedicated in the city’s Capital Improvement Program for the rehabilitation and/
or reconstruction of the city’s arterial, collector and local streets. In addition, developers are
assessed fees on a case-by-case, pro-rata share basis towards pavement rehabilitation of
arterial streets designated as truck routes.
Agenda Page 22
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Regional Traffic
Coordinate with CalTrans, METRO, SCAG, Gateway Cities COG and other agencies to
promote multi-modal improvement strategies to improve the regional transportation
network (Program 2.4.1.1). City staff continued to participate in the development of the
West Santa Ana Branch (WSAB) Transit Corridor Project. It is a new 20-mile light rail transit
line that would connect downtown Los Angeles to southeast LA County, serving the cities and
communities including Downey. Metro has formally initiated the Draft Environmental Impact
Statement/Environmental Impact Report (EIS/EIR) phase. In response to comments received
during the scoping period and ongoing technical analysis, Metro has been studying new
potential alignments in addition to the original four Northern Alignment Options (alignment
between downtown Los Angeles and City of Huntington Park).
Infrastructure and Maintenance
Promote the expansion of communication networks to meet the needs of city residents,
businesses, and other land uses (Program 2.7.1.2.) The City designed and implemented the
customer service check-in kiosk system to better expedite service at the public counters. This
new system allows staffs to provide an effective and efficient service to our customers and to
enhance communications between various City Departments in terms of speed, capacity and
reliability.
Promote alternative funding sources for infrastructure maintenance and upgrades (Program
2.7.2.1.). In an effort to continue to advance the unique programing at the Space Center and
without taking up the City’s general fund, the Columbia Memorial Space Center Foundation
significantly increased its development activity. The Foundation secured $77,000 in grant
funding from various resources, as well as $23,000 donated in services and materials.
Measure S went into effect in April 2017 and expected to generate approximately $9 million
per year to protect and enhance the quality of services to the community.
Agenda Page 23
22
The California State Legislature has identified the “Attainment of a decent home and suitable living
environment for every citizen”, as the State’s major housing goal. Accordingly, the State of California
mandates that each county and city maintain a Housing Element in their General Plan. Section 65583
of the Government Code sets forth the specific components to be contained in a community’s housing
element, including the City’s share of the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
In addition to providing assistance and guidance for the City’s Housing Element, the Housing Division
administers a variety of community development activities including affordable housing activities,
neighborhood improvement programs, economic development strategies, improvement of public
facilities, and support for needed public services. The following is in regards to Chapter 2 (Housing
Plan) of the 2014-2021 Housing Element goals administered by the Housing Division:
Program 2 – The Housing Rebate and Grant Program
Objective: Address property, structural, and energy/water conservation
improvements for low-income homeowners in the City. The City
anticipates that 20 projects will be assisted annually based on funding
availability.
Status: 12 projects were funded in during 2017 calendar year, with a total of
$204,466 in improvements to residential properties occupied by low-
or moderate-income households.
Program 3 – Monitor and Preserve Affordable Housing
Objective: City staff continued to maintain a list of affordable housing units
throughout the City including affordability information to ensure
landlords are compliant with deed restrictions and to preserve
affordable units. The Housing Division will continue to pursue
partnership opportunities with nonprofits to preserve and expand
affordable housing in the City.
Status: In a partnership with Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit agency, the
development of six (6) affordable homebuyer units was completed in
September 2017 and the units were sold to low- income homebuyers.
Chapter 3 Housing Element
Agenda Page 24
23
Program 8 – Mortgage Credit Certificate
Objective: Continued participation and distribute fliers and advertise program
availability.
Status: During 2017 calendar year, the City of Downey participated in the
Community Development Commission of the Los Angeles County’s
Mortgage Credit Certificate (“MCC”) Program. The Housing Division
advertised the MCC Program by distributing fliers and publishing it on
the City’s website.
Program 9 – Section 8 Rental Assistance
Objective: Continued to provide assistance to households through continued
participation in the Los Angeles County Section 8 program and
encourage rental property owners to register their units with the
Housing Authority of the County of Los Angeles (“HACOLA”). The
Housing Division will continue to monitor the number of residents
accessing the program and units available for rent.
Status: In 2017, the City of Downey participated in the Section 8 program
offered by HACOLA to provide rental assistance to low-income
households.
Program 10 – Los Angeles County Partnership
Objective: Increased resident awareness about housing programs offered by the
County by advertising them on the City’s website, social media, and by
offering staff assistance at City Hall.
Status: During 2017 calendar year, the City continued to offer resident
awareness about housing programs offered by the County by
advertising various programs on the City’s website.
Program 15 – Prioritize Housing Program Activities
Objective: Identify housing needs and prioritize housing program activities to meet
those needs through five (5) year updates to the City’s Consolidated
Plan.
Status: The recently approved 5-Year Consolidated Plan which covers the time
period between 2015 through 2020.
Agenda Page 25
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Program 21 – Fair Housing
Objective: Staff continued to assist households through the Fair Housing
Foundation (“FHF”) and continue to refer fair housing complaints to the
FHF.
Status: In 2017, at least 250 Downey residents were assisted by the FHF.
Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA)
Each local government in California is required to adopt a Housing Element as part of its General Plan
that shows how the community plans to meet the existing and projected housing needs of people at
all income levels. The Regional Housing Need Allocation (RHNA) is the state-mandated process to
identify the total number of housing units (by affordability level) that each jurisdiction must
accommodate in its Housing Element. In 2017, City of Downey have constructed 135 new homes.
This includes all low income levels, moderate and above moderate.
Enter Calendar Year starting with the first
year of the RHNA allocation period. 2014 2015 2016 2017
Total Units
to Date
(all years)
Total
Remaining
RHNA
by Income
Level Income Level
RHNA
Allocation
by
Income
Level
Year
1
Year
2
Year
3
Year
4
Very Low Deed restricted 478 15 0 0 0 15 463
Low Deed restricted 242 35 0 6 0 41 201
Moderate Deed restricted 135 0 0 0 0 0 135
Above Moderate 346 0 0 50 135 185 161
Total RHNA by COG
Enter allocation number: 1201
50 0 56
135 241
960 Total Units ► ► ►
Remaining Need for RHNA Period ► ► ► ► ►
Agenda Page 26
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The City of Downey, like the rest of southern California, enjoy a temperate climate, access to both
beaches and mountains and many other amenities not found in many other parts of the world. The
quality of life that the region offers its residents is one of the main reasons the region continues to
attract visitors and newcomers. However, southern California is a semi-arid desert environment with
limited natural resources. These limited resources, need to be preserved for continued use by existing
residents and by future generations. Extreme drought conditions continued through much of 2016,
making conservation critical.
Water Supply
Continue providing information to the public promoting the benefits of water conservation
(Program 4.1.1.1.). The Public Works Department continued to provide public education on
water use habits and drought tolerant landscaping via the Street Fair, National Night Out, Ride
& Stride event, and landscaping workshops. In addition, staff continued to provide samples of
synthetic turf at the Community Development Department Planning counter. Residents were
encouraged to work with Planning staff for additional information and recommendation
regarding installation and materials.
Promote the continued use of water conservation methods at city-owned facilities, such as
parks and golf courses (Program 4.1.1.3.). The City continued to look for additional
opportunities to expand its use of recycled water at City-owned and other sites as recycled
water becomes available. Some of the larger City locations where recycled water is currently
used include: Downey Cemetery, Independence Park, Rio San Gabriel Park, Wilderness Park,
Rio Hondo Golf Course, Crawford Park, Columbia Memorial Space Center, and Sports Park.
The City currently maintains 35 recycled water services/meters for use at City Park and golf
course ponds, and for irrigation of landscaping at parks, golf course, and medians/parkways.
Encourage the use of reclaimed water, or re-use of water on-site, for new and
redevelopment projects (Program 4.1.1.4). The Public Works Department continued to
require contractors and developers to install recycled water services/piping and meters where
recycled water is located in proximity to the development projects.
Expand the availability of reclaimed water by extending the dual-pipe water system
(Program 4.1.1.5.). The recently constructed recycled water facility at the Downey Promenade
Shopping Center allows the use of recycled water for landscape irrigation at medians/parkways
along Lakewood Boulevard, Bellflower Boulevard and future construction projects along these
corridor.
Chapter 4 Conservation Element
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Stormwater Quality
Provide treatment of runoff generated by properties on-site before release into the storm
drain system (Program 4.3.1.1.). Over 50 development and redevelopment projects were
approved for construction with infiltration systems to capture and store runoff to reduce
pollutant transport and augment local water levels beneath the ground. As public, commercial
and residential projects are redeveloped, runoff control measures are implemented in the
form of infiltration resulting in a steady improvement in water quality and local water levels.
Promote effective street cleaning (Program 4.3.1.3.). The Nationwide Environmental Services
continued to vacuum-swept the city streets weekly. These streets are posted with “No
Parking” signs during the appointed period and Parking Enforcement Officers accompany the
sweeper vehicles. Residents utilizing a Street Sweeping Parking Permit are responsible for
maintaining the street area adjacent to their properties as a condition of being exempted from
the posted parking restrictions.
Encourage proper storage and handling of construction materials to avoid the contact of
pollutants with storm water runoff during construction (Program 4.3.1.4.). Public Works,
Code Enforcement, and Building and Safety staff continued to share responsibility for
implementing Program 4.3.1.4 of the City Vision 2025 General Plan. Public Works focused on
construction projects in the public right-of-way, preparation and review of erosion control
plans by developers, compliance by large state permitted construction sites and responding to
complaints of materials in the municipal separate storm sewer system (MS4), which includes
streets, alleys and drains. Building and Safety is primarily responsible for on-site or private
property conditions, while Code Enforcement responds to resident complaints and provides
more aggressive enforcement capabilities to supplement other staff efforts.
Tree Preservation
Promote the installation of new trees when damaged or dying trees are removed (Program
4.4.1.3.). The Public Works Department continued to work with property owners to ensure
that the removal of damaged trees and the placement of new trees comply with City’s Tree
Ordinance. Public Works Department is responsible to review and approve all proposed
landscaping plans within the public right-of-ways and street medians. Section 7605 of the
Downey Municipal Code specifies that, “Any public street tree removed shall be replaced if a
replacement is deemed appropriate and if it is mutually agreed to by both the City and the
property owner.”
Agenda Page 28
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Air Quality
Encourage alternative modes of travel, such as walking and cycling, to vehicle use and
alternative modes of employment, such as telecommuting and home-based businesses, to
reduce emissions associated with vehicle use (Program 4.5.1.4.). As previously mentioned in
Program 2.2.2.1., the City had been implementing the recently adopted Bicycle Master Plan
(BMP). This including the addition of bike lanes on various primary and secondary arterials.
These bike lanes provided a healthy option to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Each
bike on the road means one less car.
Promote the use of alternative fuel vehicles, including clean diesel, compressed natural gas,
hydrogen, that result in reduced emissions, including in instances involving City operations
(Program 4.5.1.5.). With the growing number of electric and hybrid vehicles, additional
charging stations have been installed in public and private facilities (City Library, Promenade at
Downey, and The Commons Commercial Center) to promote the use of natural gas and pure
electric vehicles.
Energy Resources
Ensure the installation of energy efficient street lights and traffic signals (Program 4.6.2.1.).
The City installed new LED light fixtures in the Civic Center, which provided a 40 percent
energy savings and reduce maintenance costs, with an added financial incentive from Southern
California Edison (SCE).
Agenda Page 29
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Natural and non-natural hazards present a variety of risks to persons who live, work, and visit the City.
The aim of the City is to reduce the potential risk of death, injuries, property damage, and the eco-
nomic and social dislocation resulting from hazards .
Disaster Response
Coordinate emergency preparedness with the federal, state, school district and other local
agencies (Program 5.1.2.3.). The Office of Emergency Management throughout the year have
coordinated with the federal, state, and neighboring local agency in preparing for response
and recovery efforts in an event of disasters. This was done through planning, training and ex-
ercising and the goal is to minimize the loss of lives and property.
Monitor the location, type of facility, and amount of hazardous materials kept at properties
(Program 5.2.1.2.). The Fire Department continues to monitor and inspect all facilities that
handle hazardous materials at or above the reportable quantities as set forth in the California
Health & Safety Code (§25503.5). Inspections are conducted every other year to ensure com-
pliance with both the Fire and Health & Safety Codes. These inspections frequency exceed the
State’s requirement for hazardous materials inspection to occur once every three years.
Promote public information regarding the types of hazardous materials, which may include
common household items, and the proper method of disposal (Program 5.2.1.3.). The
Downey Fire Department continued to update its website to provide the up-to-date infor-
mation on the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials. The website’s Emergency
Preparedness section contains information on hazardous material awareness and safety, in ad-
dition to educational information on fire safety.
Hazardous Materials
Ensure proper disclosure of amounts of hazardous materials by existing uses and proposed
uses, during the business review process (Program 5.2.1.4.). The Downey Fire Prevention
Bureau continued to conduct inspections during the business license application process.
Once identified as a handler of hazardous materials, these businesses receive an inspection
from Downey Fire Department’s Hazardous Material Section to ensure accurate disclosure of
the hazardous substances, and the safe handling and storage of the materials. The facilities
are then entered into the Fire Department’s database, issued an operational permit, and
placed on a routine inspection frequency.
Chapter 5 Safety Element
Agenda Page 30
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Hazardous Materials
Promote the convenient “drop-off” collection for the disposal of hazardous waste generated
by residential households and other land uses (Program 5.2.2.2). The City continued to offer
programs that encourages residents to dispose hazardous waste materials (i.e. electronic
devices) to both the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County Household Hazardous Waste
Collection Program and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Safe Drug Drop-off Program, which
accepts expired prescription medications and sharps (i.e., needles).
The Downey Police Department and Downey C.E.R.T members participated in the annual
National Prescription Drug-Take Back Initiative. Downey residents had an opportunity to drop
off expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. All of the collected items were turned
over to the D.E.A for disposal.
Fire Protection
Promote adequate widths on travel lanes along street and alleys to accommodate
emergency vehicles (Program 5.3.1.2.). The Fire Prevention Bureau personnel, under the
direction of the Fire Chief, continued to review plans diligently to ensure emergency vehicle
access through private driveways, public streets and alleys will be accommodated. This review
is completed early in the Planning application process to ensure proper site layout is achieved.
Ensure that development projects install fire hydrants, water mains, or otherwise contribute
its fair share towards mitigating impacts on the fire flow system (Program 5.3.2.3.). The Fire
and Public Works Departments continued to enforce the requirements for additional fire
hydrants for development projects through the plan check process. The Community
Development Department continued to conduct Development Review Committee (DRC) to
allow various City Departments to offer comments and conditions for a proposed project.
Promote the use of fire sprinklers for new, expanded, and remodeled developments
(Program 5.3.2.4.). The Fire Prevention Bureau continued to require sprinkler systems for new
commercial development over 3,600 sq. ft. and tenant improvements of commercial
properties, whose permit valuations exceed 50 percent of the value of the building.
Ensure access for emergency vehicles through security pedestrian and vehicular gates
(Program 5.3.2.6.). The Fire Prevention Bureau continued to require emergency lighting, exit
signs, Knox box, and 2A-10BC fire extinguishers for all commercial and industrial projects.
Agenda Page 31
30
Police Protection
Keep crime rates and property loss rates at the lowest levels feasible (Program 5.4.1.1.). In
an effort to keep crime and property loss rates low, the Police Department increased staffing
by hiring 15 Police Officers. In addition, the Department added 1 Records Supervisor, 1
Neighborhood Watch Coordinator, 1 Network Engineer, 1 Parking Enforcement Officer, 1
Forensics Specialist, a 1 Police Aide.
Maintain an acceptable response time for police emergency service calls (Program 5.4.1.2.).
The Police Department continued to maintain a swift response time to high priority emergency
calls that require immediate assistance to ensure the public’s safety.
Promote the use of technology as tools to improve staff productivity (Program 5.4.1.5.). The
Department completed the installation of 25 “Automated License Plate Readers” at 10
locations throughout the city. This use of technology allows the Department to not only
recover stolen cars, but assist investigators with other types of criminal investigations.
Coordinate with Federal, State, and County agencies to address illegal activities (Program
5.4.1.7.). The Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team (SET) continued to work in
conjunction with the State’s Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) to monitor and enforce applicable
liquor laws at alcohol establishments throughout the City. The IMPACT (Informed Merchants
Preventing Alcohol-Related Crime Tendencies) and Decoy Operations, under the supervision of
SET are designed to test the compliance of establishments that have been granted liquor
licenses by Alcoholic Beverage Control.
In 2017, the Downey Police Department conducted over 11 IMPACT Inspections at liquor
stores, bars and restaurants throughout the city. Licensees were provided with literature from
Alcoholic Beverage Control to further their knowledge about alcohol -related laws and
regulations. Minor violations were documented at several locations. Also, Downey Officer’s
conducted Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap operations at over 19 locations, targeting
businesses and patrons that furnish alcohol to minors. Downey Officer’s issued eight
citations to retail store clerks and patrons of ABC licensed businesses for furnishing alcohol to
minors.
Agenda Page 32
31
Support community organizations and neighborhood awareness programs that promote
crime prevention, including preventing gang activity (Program 5.4.2.2.). The Police
Department continued to participate in awareness programs, such as Gangs Out of Downey,
and promotes crime prevention through its participation in Neighborhood Watch, which
expanded from 196 groups to 214. In addition, the Police Department’s “Homeless Outreach
Team” and various outreach organizations conducted several operations throughout the year
in an effort to provide resources and alternatives to living on the streets for the city’s
homeless population.
Promote coordination between schools and the City to address juvenile crime in a proactive
and preventive manner (Program 5.4.2.5.). The Police Department Expanded the
Department’s internet presence with the creation of a “Social Media Team”, responsible for
interacting with the public via social media, while also producing public advisory videos. The
department also hosted monthly Safe Schools meetings with DUSD administrators and
participated in the School Resource Officer Program and Gangs Out of Downey (G.O.O.D.)
meetings in collaboration to provide a safer environment for the city’s students and educators.
Earthquake Safety
Monitor groundwater table levels as they relate to liquefaction hazards (Program 5.5.1.3.).
Public Works continued to regularly observed ground water levels at well sites around the
City. The ground water table is typically greater than 50’ below the soil surface, which limits
the risk of liquefaction to residential and typical commercial structures. Larger structures and
those with significant subterranean components may be requested to provide additional
seismic evaluations during the development process or as a condition of approval.
Ensure the placement of utility lines underground (Program 5.5.1.6.). Public Works
Department continued to implement Underground Utility Districts for all development
projects. In addition, Southern California Edison Company continued to prohibit the use of
vaults installed above ground to protect the equipment and electrical lines from the intrusion
of moisture.
Agenda Page 33
32
Floods
Educate the public that the City is located in an “X” flood zone where flood insurance is no
longer mandatory (Program 5.6.1.2.). The Public Works Department continued to provide
handouts at the public counter regarding the current FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Map) and
flood zoning . FIRM information can be found at www.fema.gov website.
Minimize increases in the amount of stormwater generated by existing and proposed land
uses (Program 5.6.2.1.). The Public Works Department continued to enforce National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements, during plan check review for new and
redevelopment projects with 5,000 square feet or more of new or replacement impervious
surfaces, which are generally required to provide infiltration volume commensurate with an
85th percentile within 24-hour runoff event (whichever is greater) on the new or replacement
impervious surface. Larger developments are required to prepare a Standard Urban
Stormwater Mitigation Plan and demonstrate that no increase in peak runoff rate will be
observed as a result of the development and that at least 85th percentile or 0.75 inch in a 24 -
hour event (whichever is greater) of projected runoff can be infiltrated.
Vehicular Traffic
Require street lights for new developments (Program 5.7.1.2.). The City continued to require
developers to install new street lights adjacent to the new developments within the public-
right-of-way as a condition of approval, where streetlights currently do not exist. In addition,
as a condition of approval through the development plan review process, properties are
annexed into the City of Downey Lighting Maintenance District in accordance with Division 15
of the Streets and Highways Code.
Encourage the installation of sidewalks in new developments and major remodeling
consistent with the sidewalk Master Plan (Program 5.7.2.2.). The City continued to require
the construction of new sidewalks and the repair of existing sidewalks and disabled ramps for
new developments (i.e., KB Home, The Promenade at Downey, and Village Walk Townhomes)
as a condition of approval through the development plan review process.
Promote street intersection design and signalization that are safe and convenient to
pedestrians and bicyclists (Program 5.7.2.3.). In an effort to make street intersections more
pedestrian-friendly, pedestrian countdown indications were installed to provide more precise
information to pedestrians about the time remaining to safely cross the streets. The indicators
were installed at most of the major street intersections (i.e. Lakewood Blvd, Florence Ave, Old
River School Rd, Imperial Hwy, Downey Ave, Paramount Blvd, Woodruff Ave, Bellflower Blvd).
Agenda Page 34
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Chapter 6 Noise Element
Noise can be defined as unwanted sound and is known to have several adverse effects on people. The
most critical impact of noise exposure is hearing loss. Other effects are speech interference, sleep
interference and annoyance.
Ensure that existing land uses that are generating noise beyond the acceptable levels reduce
noise levels to acceptable levels (Program 6.3.1.2.). The City continued to enforce it’s noise
ordinance (Section 4600 of the Downey Municipal Code). This involves the permitted hours for
construction. For projects that involved amplified music, the City continued to strictly
enforcing businesses to mitigate noise impacts by imposing conditions of approval through a
conditional use permit application process. Also, the Downey Police Department Special
Enforcement Team conducted IMPACT inspections to ensure businesses are operating at an
acceptable noise level.
In addition, the City continued to require projects that involve live entertainment activities and
projects that have the potential to generate noise from machinery equipment or amplified
music to comply with City’s noise ordinance. This can be regulated by imposing conditions of
approval through the entitlement process.
Discourage the placement of air conditioning equipment, electric generators, or other noise -
generating equipment in close proximity to adjacent properties (Program 6.3.1.6.). The City
continued to impose conditions of approval for outdoor events and carnivals that involved with
the use of temporary electric generators to mitigate potential impacts to the public. This
includes limiting the number of generator, requiring minimum separation from generator to
buildings and property lines, requiring the use of generators that generating minimal noise.
Agenda Page 35
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Typical of most communities located within mature urbanized settings, Downey has a limited amount of
open space areas. Open space areas are important not only to provide recreational activities for
residents but also as a visual break from the built environment.
Updates:
Maintain an adequate level of recreational staffing at park facilities (Program 7.2.2.1.). The
Parks & Recreation Department continued to monitor recreation staffing to ensure adequate
levels of recreation staffing at park facilities. Full-time and part-time staffs were hired as needed
to fill vacancies throughout the year.
Secure alternative means of funding, such as grants, donations, user fees and public/private
partnerships, for park upgrades (Program 7.2.2.5.). The City contracted with Playpower LT
Farmington for the installation of new playground equipment for Independence Park and Apollo
Park. The new playgrounds were funded from the Los Angeles County Regional Parks and Open
Spaces Grant. As mentioned under Program 2.7.2.1., Measure S was expected to generate
approximately $9 million per year to protect and enhance the quality of services to the
community, including enhancing police services, ensuring adequate funding for public parks, and
improving public streets.
Promote the creation of new parks, especially in areas of the city in the greatest need of
additional parks (Program 7.3.1.1.). City staff continues to work with the County of Los Angeles
on a sports complex project (soccer fields) on the south side of the Rancho Los Amigos campus,
which includes five acres that the county approved for recreational use.
Actively work with private, non-profit and public community services organizations to provide
educational and community services including child care, English translation, after school
programs and recreational activities (Program 7.4.1.5.) Parks and Recreation staff and the
Downey Unified School District (DUSD) continued to administer a State grant to provide the
“After School Program Information Recreation Education” (ASPIRE) at Alameda, Carpenter,
Gauldin, Griffiths, Lewis, Old River, Stauffer, Sussman, Price, Unsworth, Ward and Williams
Schools. The goal of the program is to provide a fun, positive, and safe learning
environment. The program operates on school days from school dismissal until 6:00 p.m. Also,
the Department continued to use contracted instructors to bring recreational classes and
programs to the community. Lastly, Parks and Recreation staff continued to support TLC (True
Lasting Connections) organization, a branch of DUSD that supports children and their families
including access to child care, English translation, programs, and other necessities. With the
ongoing support from local donors (i.e. First Baptist Church, Kaiser Permanente of Downey,
Foundation for Life, The Downey Promenade, and Planet Fitness), TLC were able to continue to
help families in need.
Chapter 7 Open Space Element
Agenda Page 36
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Most residents, visitors, and businesses in Downey recognize the City as the premiere city in the
southeast area of Los Angeles County. However, others less familiar with the City’s history may not
share this perception and judge Downey solely on the physical appearance of the area. For this
reason, it is important that the visual appearance of the community portray a positive image and that
the community image display the distinct and numerous resources it has to offer.
Promote quality design for new, expanded, and remodeled construction (Goal 8.1). The City
continued to contract with the Architectural Peer Review Services to provide technical review
and a comprehensive range of integrated design services for a variety of buildings. In addition,
the City continued to implement the Site Plan Review process that requires Planning
Commission review and approval of site plans, landscaping, lighting (except single family
homes and apartments) for new constructions and additions to townhome, commercial and
industrial projects in the City.
Lack of property maintenance may exhibit a negative image of the City (Issue 8.2). The Code
Enforcement Division continued monitoring and working with a significant number of property
owners, including residential properties, commercial and industrial businesses, in an effort to
keep these properties maintained.
Support the Keep Downey Beautiful programs (Program 8.2.2.3.). City staffs, business
owners, and volunteers participated in the monthly event “Keep Downey Beautiful” that help
improving the community environments. The program not only keep Downey beautiful but
have a safe and clean environment.
Chapter 8 Design Element
Agenda Page 37
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A strong community owes much to the spirit and involvement of its residents. However, community
pride and civic-mindedness are not enough for a city to provide all necessary and desired services to
maintain the local quality of life. A city needs a variety of employment and shopping opportunities to
create balance, make it a desirable place to live, and enhance its image.
Develop economic strategies for business attraction and retention (Program 9.1.1.1.).
Biomedical Overlay Zone—With the fast growing jobs in the bio-medical industry, Staff worked
with consultants to evaluate and develop a biomedical overlay zone that enhance the existing
Zoning Code and provide a catalyst to increasing biomedical businesses in Downey. The
project is ongoing, with the City Council’s direction to staff to develop future zoning
amendments to further attract the biomedical industry.
Continue the revitalization of commercial and industrial corridors (Program 9.1.1.5.). The
City continued to work on the Imperial Highway Strategic Plan, a corridor assessment that
includes five (5) components: A Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT)
analysis, an implementation plan, performance metrics, development opportunity sites
analyses, and a summary of research findings. The analysis assisted in identifying six major
goals to revitalize the Imperial Highway corridor, which are supported by strategies, action
steps, and performance metrics within the plan, providing a roadmap for enhancing economic
development and the growth of the corridor.
Promote through public information the benefits of businesses locating in Downey (Program
9.1.1.7.). Staff has revamped the Economic Development web pages to assist in the attraction
and retention of quality businesses. The pages contain information and materials for
businesses coming to the City and include information on the various business start -up steps
and even links to a site locator and opportunity sites. Additionally, the city has included a
business tool-kit, to further help businesses locate regional, state and federal resources.
Maintain the high level of standards for quality of staff and work produced (Program
9.4.1.3.). City designed and implemented the customer service check-in kiosk system to better
expedite service at the public counters. This new system allows staffs to provide an effective
and efficient service to our customers. In 2017, the city has been named “Most Business
Friendly City” by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC).
Expand the use of the city Internet web site for public information (Program 9.4.2.5.). City
Departments continue to work toward improved customer service by maintaining the on -line
business license application process, which enables customers to submit business license
renewals or applications for a new license and to allow Downey residents to pay their water
bills on-line. In addition, the City continues to update its website periodically and provide
more information to the public via the Internet.
Chapter 9 Economic Development Element
Agenda Page 38