Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03c. Minutes - 02-14-17 - Regular MeetingCity Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 1 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY REGULAR MEETING FEBRUARY 14, 2017 The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting on February 14, 2017, at 6:36 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Vasquez presiding. PRESENT: Council Members: Fernando Vasquez Mayor Sean Ashton Mayor Pro Tem (arrived 7:11 p.m.) Blanca Pacheco Council Member Rick Rodriguez Council Member Alex Saab Council Member ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney Adria M. Jimenez, MMC, City Clerk John Oskoui, Assistant City Manager Shannon DeLong, Assistant to the City Manager Carl Charles, Chief of Police Mark Gillaspie, Fire Chief Mohammad Mostahkami, Public Works Director Pamela Passow, Parks & Recreation Director Aldo Schindler, Community Development Director Anil Gandhy, Finance Director Alicia Duarte, CMC, Deputy City Clerk The Invocation was delivered by Rev. Grande, Chaplain-Pastoral Care Services at PIH Health Hospital Downey. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Michael Calvert, Executive Director, Downey Chamber of Commerce. COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS; CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS Council Member Pacheco wished the audience a Happy Valentine’s Day. She reported attending the Homeless Count and the Independent Cities Association Conference and commented on the session regarding K-9 training. She thanked Fire Chief Gillaspie for taking her on a tour of the City’s Fire Stations. She requested staff contact the City of Bellflower in regards to permit parking on Woodruff and Foster which will affect Downey residents. Council Member Rodriguez wished the audience a Happy Valentine’s Day. He announced the City is moving forward with the Chaplain program that will head the City’s homeless initiative. He reported attending a meeting regarding the homeless initiative for Los Angeles County and visiting the City of Fullerton to meet with volunteers and service groups on how they have set their program in place. He reported attending ribbon cuttings for The Pride by Her Salon and Vazza Café. He reported attending a Drum Circle; the Science Fair at Calvary Chapel; and, the Independent Cities Association Conference in Santa Barbara, California. Council Member Saab acknowledged his wife Gigi Saab and Michael Calvart the audience. He reported attending the ribbon cutting for Intero Real Estate and the Independent Cities Association Conference. He commented regarding the session on K-9 training. He announced upcoming events: City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 2 TLC 5K run/walk; President’s Day City Hall closure; Relay for Life Kick-Off; and unveiling of the Citizen Volunteer Applications. He thanked Police Officer Pope for his 30 years of service. Mayor Vasquez acknowledged Matias Flores, Dr. Steven Dominguez, Denise Juarez, Valentin Flores, Miguel Duarte, and, Blanca Rochin in the audience. He requested from staff the donation of two foursomes for the auction at the Soroptimist Casino Night event. He commented regarding overcrowding in prisons due to the high percentage of inmates that have mental health conditions and their use of drugs and pain killer medications. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton reported attending the Senate Transportation and Housing Committee Summit in Sacramento to represent the City in regards to obtaining local transportation funds to fix City roads. He reported attending Independent Cities Association Conference and commented regarding the session on K-9 training. He announced the upcoming Keep Downey Beautiful Clean-Up and his upcoming Coffee with the Mayor Pro Tem event. Mayor Vasquez recognized Emily Lopez for her community involvement and acknowledged Commissioner Ricardo Perez, his wife Mrs. Vasquez and Commissioner Jim Rodriguez in the audience. PRESENTATIONS 1. Mayor Vasquez presented a Proclamation to Soroptimist International Downey in recognition of “Healthy Heart Month.” 2. Mayor Vasquez and the City Council with the assistance of Chief Charles presented a Certificate of Recognition to Downey Police Officer Mike Pope. 3. Mayor Vasquez presented the Mayor’s Healthy Heart Award to Jim West, President & CEO at PIH Health. 4. Council Member Pacheco presented a Certificate of Appointment to Miguel Duarte, Planning Commissioner, District 1. 5. Mayor Vasquez presented a Certificate of Recognition to Phil Cokkinos, Downey Public Works Employee. 6. Mayor Vasquez and Council Member Rodriguez presented a Military Banner to Jose Armando Juarez, U.S. Army. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. FEDERAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM 2017-18: RECEIVED PUBLIC COMMENT ON THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP PROGRAMS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-18: Community Development. Mayor Vasquez opened the Public Hearing at 7:36 p.m. City Clerk Jimenez affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton, seconded by Council Member Saab and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Jimenez noted there was no correspondence received. The staff report was provided by Aldo Schindler, Director of Community Development. This item is to provide an update regarding the Department of Community Development’s budget and how the funds are currently allocated. The Department is taking a three percent reduction in the Community Development Block Grant Program and a three percent reduction to the Home Investment Partnership City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 3 Program for the Fiscal Year of 2017-18 due to federal budget cuts. Director Schindler expressed that the Department will work with city staff to work on how to allocate the budget cuts and will present their funding recommendations to the City Council in May. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment at 7:46 p.m. Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding homelessness in the community. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment at 7:51 p.m. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and carried unanimously to receive and file the report. 2. APPROVED ADDENDUM TO THE LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION: Public Works. A. CONDUCTED A PUBLIC HEARING B. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7691, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE ADDENDUM TO THE LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Mayor Vasquez opened the Public Hearing at 7:51 p.m. City Clerk Jimenez affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Jimenez noted there was no correspondence received. The staff report was provided by Mohammad Mostahkami, Director of Public Works. Director Mostahkami stated that in order to move forward with the construction at this site, an addendum needs to be approved by the City Council so that it may be submitted to CalTrans. Mayor Vasquez asked when construction will begin if the addendum is approved. Director Mostahkami responded that construction will begin in December. Council Member Saab inquired as to whether there had been a community presentation regarding the construction. Director Mostahkami responded that there has not been a community meeting. Council Member requested that there be a community meeting if possible to allow greater public input. Mayor Vasquez asked Director Mostahkami whether there will be any underground work or relocation of electrical poles for this project. Director Mostahkami responded no. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment at 7:55 p.m. Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding improved sidewalks and streets. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment at 7:58 p.m. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and carried unanimously to adopt Resolution No. 17-7691 approving the addendum to the Lakewood Boulevard Improvement Project Mitigated Negative Declaration. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 4 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF USER FEE FOR CITY’S ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS: Public Works. A. CONDUCTED A PUBLIC HEARING B. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7692, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 16-7648 AMENDING THE CITY’S UNIFORM SCHEDULE OF FEES BY ADOPTING A NEW FEE FOR THE CITY’S ELECTRICAL VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS Mayor Vasquez opened the Public Hearing at 8:01 p.m. City Clerk Jimenez affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Jimenez noted there was no correspondence received. The staff report was provided by Mohammad Mostahkami, Director of Public Works. Director Mostahkami announced that they have five new electrical vehicle dual-charging stations. Director Mostahkami stated that in order to cover the operating costs of maintenance the proposed resolution would establish a fee for charging station usage and would exempt city employees, council members, city commissioners and city committee members from having to pay the fee. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment at 8:03 p.m. Council Member Saab asked for further explanation as to why City Council members would be exempt from paying the fee. Director Mostahkami responded that all City employees, Council Members, City Commission and Board Members would be exempt, under the proposal, from paying the charging station fee so that it would encourage the use of electrical vehicles. Council Member Rodriguez inquired about the voltage of the charging stations. David Nevarez of ChargePoint, Inc., responded that the voltage is 240 volts and is specific to electric vehicles. City Manager Livas, commented that the City annually reports ridesharing to AQMD and one of the things employees are encouraged to do is share rides to come to work. In addition, City Manager Livas commented that by exempting city employees from having to pay the fee for charging stations, it is an incentive so that employees may use electrical vehicles to come to work in an effort to reduce gas omissions. Mayor Vasquez asked what most other cities do. Mr. Nevarez of ChargePoint, Inc. responded that most other cities charge their city employees. Assistant City Manager Oskoui commented that the intent of the funding from AQMD is to reduce the carbon footprint. Assistant City Manager Oskoui also commented that one of the objectives of the City’s Green Task Force is to encourage rideshares and the use of electrical vehicles. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked how much it would cost the average consumer to charge their vehicle. Mr. Nevarez of ChargePoint, Inc. responded that it would cost twenty-five cents per kilowatt and that the average consumer would use twenty kilowatts. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment at 8:10 p.m. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 5 It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and carried unanimously to adopt the Resolution No. 17-7692, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Downey amending Resolution No. 17-7648 amending the City’s Uniform Schedule of fees by adopting a new fee for the City’s Electrical Vehicle Charging Stations. NON AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding his comfort pet and his claim. Thomas and Jonathan, residents, commented regarding Measure H and homelessness issues in Los Angeles County. Denise Juarez, Downey Sister Cities Association, commented about an event being hosted by City of Pico Rivera. Ms. Juarez also commented about an upcoming trip to sister city Fresnillo, Zacatecas. Lastly, Ms. Juarez inquired about the fire engines being housed. Mayor Vasquez referred her question to Fire Chief Gillaspie. Ms. Ashley, Kingdom Causes, commented in favor of Measure H. CONSENT CALENDAR Council Member Rodriguez abstained from Item No. 9; Council Member Saab abstained from Item No. 15, due to the proximity to his property and pulled Item No. 22. Mayor Vasquez asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Consent Calendar items. Armando Herman, resident, commented on Item No. 6, Item No. 11, Item No. 22. Marisol Flores, resident, commented on Item No. 22 and against tactical safety equipment from U.S. Armor Corporation. Blake Rangel, resident, commented on Item No. 22 and against tactical safety equipment from US. Armor Corporation. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Ashton and carried unanimously to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar, with Council Member Rodriguez abstaining from Item No. 9 and Council Member Saab abstaining from Item No. 15 and pulling Item No. 22. 4. APPROVED MINUTES: Special Meeting of December 15, 2016; Regular & Special Meetings of December 27, 2016: City Clerk. 5. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 310528-311013; Payroll Wire Nos. are 30003565-30003575; Manual Wire Nos. 1514–1523; Cashier Check No. 94-96, in the total amount of $5,292,027.50: Finance. 6. APPROPRIATED $35,000 FROM THE ASSET FORFEITURE FUND TO PURCHASE A POLICE SERVICE DOG, TO TRAIN THE DOG AND THE HANDLER, AND TO PURCHASE RELATED EQUIPMENT: Police. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 6 7. APPROPRIATED $40,000 FROM THE ASSET FORFEITURE FUND TO HIRE A CONSULTANT TO LOOK INTO THE OPTIONS FOR A CITY-WIDE RADIO SYSTEM: Police. 8. IMPERIAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SIGNAL COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM AND UPGRADES: AWARDED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT IN THE AMOUNT OF $452,950.00 TO THE BELCO ELECNOR GROUP, AND AUTHORIZED THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ANY CHANGE ORDERS OR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK DEEMED NECESSARY UP TO THE APPROVED BUDGET (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 14-17): Public Works. 9. AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN AN MOU WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (MTA) FOR COLLECTING AND REPORTING DATA FOR THE NATIONAL TRANSIT DATABASE (NTD) FOR REPORT YEAR 2014: Parks & Recreation. 10. APPROVED THE SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES GATEWAY REGION INTEGRATED REGIONAL WATER MANAGEMENT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR THE ADVANCED WATER METER REPLACEMENT GRANT PROJECT; AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; AND, AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AMENDMENTS: Public Works. 11. APPROVED A SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH VIGILANT SOLUTIONS, A SOFTWARE COMPANY THAT DESIGNS, DEVELOPS, LICENSES, AND SERVICES VIDEO ANALYSIS SOFTWARE TECHNOLOGIES FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AND SECURITY MARKETS: Police. 12. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7693, A R ESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MANUEL SALAS TO THE GREEN TASK FORCE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1: Council Member Pacheco. 13. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7694, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPOINTING BLANCA PACHECO, COUNCIL MEMBER AS THE REPRESENTATIVE AND FERNANDO VASQUEZ, MAYOR, AS THE ALTERNATE AND ANIL GANDHY, DIRECTOR OF FINANCE AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, AS THE SUBSTITUTE ALTERNATE REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE INDEPENDENT CITIES RISK MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY (ICRMA): Administration. 14. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7695, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING TRACT MAP NO. 67602 FOR 8435 FONTANA STREET APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH ART FLORES THE SUBDIVIDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SUBDIVISION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS: Public Works. 15. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7696, A RE SOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING TRACT MAP NO. 74254 FOR 7940 TELEGRAPH ROAD, APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH THE SUBDIVIDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF SUBDIVISION PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS AND THE ABANDONMENT OF PORTION OF FUTURE ALLEY: Public Works. 16. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7697, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY GRANTING AUTHORITY TO THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS FOR EXECUTION OF STORMWATER BMP AND RELATED DOCUMENTS: Public Works. 17. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7698, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF CARMELA UVA TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1: Council Member Pacheco. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 7 18. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7699, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MARIANA PACHECO TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1: Council Member Pacheco. 19. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7700, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF HELLEN CARCAMO TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 4: Council Member Pacheco. 20. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 17-7701, A R ESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF HALEY GUERRA TO THE GREEN TASK FORCE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Rodriguez. 21. APPOINTED VAL FLORES TO THE SOUTHEAST LOS ANGELES COUNTY WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD AS THE CITY OF DOWNEY’S REPRESENTATIVE: Mayor Vasquez. OTHER BUSINESS: 22. AUTHORIZED THE POLICE DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE TACTICAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT FROM U.S. ARMOR CORPORATION: Police. Council Member Saab asked Police Chief Charles where the tactical safety equipment will be stored. Police Chief Charles responded that each officer would be issued the items and that they would be stored in police cars. Police Chief clarified that the helmets in question are upgraded versions of the helmet that they have already used for years. The upgraded helmet is designed to withstand high power rifles. Police Chief also stated that the vests and helmets would only be used in situations that would necessitate them such as in active shooter situations and that they would not be used on a daily basis. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton commented about a 1991 robbery that occurred in Downey where six individuals equipped with high power machine guns broke into a warehouse. He further stated that at the time, police officers were only equipped with handguns to fight off the assailants and that they were not equipped with the necessary tactical gear that would have made them more prepared to handle the situation. Mayor Vasquez and Council Member Rodriguez expressed their support of law enforcement. Council Member Saab asked Police Chief Charles where the funding is coming from to pay for the tactical safety equipment. Chief Charles responded from the Asset Forfeiture Account and not the General Fund. Council Member Pacheco expressed her support for the purchase of the tactical safety equipment to provide police officers with the safety that they need in order to protect their residents. Lawrence Christen, resident, commented about his positive experiences with the Downey Police Department and requested that the City Council hold off on this item for further discussion. Council Member Saab asked Police Chief Charles if the tactical gear was to be used in all situations or where terrorism is involved. Police Chief Charles responded that terrorism can be defined in many different ways, but that the situations in which he is talking about are situations like active shooter situations. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 8 RECESS/RECONVENE Mayor Vasquez recessed the City Council meeting at 8:58 p.m. Mayor Vasquez reconvened the City Council meeting at 9:17 p.m. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS 24. DOWNEY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION TEAM PRESENTATION: TECHNOLOGICAL APPROACH TO FUEL EFFICIENCY IN POLICE PATROL VEHICLE FLEET – AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF THE DERIVE ENGINE MANAGEMENT RE-TUNE SOFTWARE FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL FLEET WITH A FIVE CAR INITIAL TRIAL INSTALLATION: Administration. James McQueen, Senior Human Resource Analyst, introduced members of the team and commented on three ideas that the team came up with: 1) Derive; 2) Fuel Master; and 3) Peak Democracy. Jason Riddle, provided information regarding the Derive Systems program. Derive is fuel efficiency software for vehicles that is designed: to improve fuel economy, reduce engine idle speed, optimize engine torque and throttle parameters, adjust transmission shift points, and reduce emissions. The cost for the Derive devices would cost $370 per vehicle with a guaranteed return on investment in less than 1 year and estimated fuel savings of 5.00 gallon/year. The following cities in California use this program: Ontario, Oceanside and Sonoma. Council Member Pacheco asked how long the trial run for the five patrol vehicles will be. Mr. Riddle responded that the trial runs will run for a minimum of one month. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment. Armando Herman, resident, inquired about further research on other cost saving programs. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and carried unanimously to authorize the City Manager to approve the agreement for the purchase and installation of the Derive engine management re-tune software for Police Department patrol fleet with a five car initial trial installation. 23. DOWNEY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION TEAM PRESENTATION: AUTOMATED FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM – AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF GASBOY FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM WITH FUEL MASTER 8100 AUTOMATED FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: Administration. The staff report was provided by Kathleen Van Raay, Account Coordinator. Ms. Van Raay presented the Downey Technology and Innovation Team’s recommendation of implementing Fuel Master 8100, an automated fuel management system. The system: reduces human error in fuel usage tracking, which frequently results in an inability to fuel patrol cars at night. The system also ensures automated, up-to-the-minute transfer of vehicle performance/check-engine information to fleet personnel and has a one-time cost of $28,600 for installation on 31 patrol vehicles. The goal of the system is to ensure accuracy and accountability in fuel cost allocation. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 9 Council Member Saab commented on the current antiquated system in place. Ms. Van Raay commented that the current fuel system in place is over 30 years old. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment. Armando Herman, resident, inquired about the amount of time a speaker is allowed to speak on discussion items. City Attorney Abich Garcia responded that a speaker has five minutes to speak on discussion items. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment. It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton, seconded by Council Member Saab and carried unanimously to authorize the City Manager to enter into an agreement for the replacement of Gasboy Fuel Management System with Fuel Master 8100 automated fuel management system. 25. DOWNEY TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION TEAM: APPOINTED A PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT CITY COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE - RECEIVED AND FILED A PRESENTATION AND CONSIDERED APPOINTING A COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE TO STUDY A TECHNOLOGICALLY-BASED APPROACH TO PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: Administration. The staff report was provided by Senior Dispatch Supervisor, Brian Flinn. Mr. Flinn presented to the council an online engagement software, Peak Democracy, that uses technology to allow the city to interact with its residents. The goal of the software is to provide a voice to people who may not have the ability or time to attend City Council meetings. The Downey Technology and Innovation Team recommends that the City Council consider appointing a Council Subcommittee to study a technologically-based approach to public engagement. Council Member Saab asked for further explanation of the purpose of the software. Mr. Flinn responded that the software is essentially a bulletin board of agenda items that allows people to comment online. Council Member Saab expressed his interest in joining the subcommittee tasked with further studying the software. He also expressed that he would like the City Clerk to become involved as well. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment. Armando Herman, resident, commented about the number of agenda items. Having no one come forward, Mayor Vasquez closed public comment. City Manager Livas recognized the Downey Technology and Innovation Team members for all of their hard work. Mayor Vasquez with the assistance of City Manager Livas presented Certificates of Recognition to the members of the Technology and Innovation Team. Council Member Saab commented that he would like to be a part of the subcommittee. Council Member Pacheco commented that she would like to a part of the subcommittee. City Manager Livas commented that City Clerk will also be a part of the subcommittee. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 10 It was moved by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton, seconded by Council Member Saab and carried unanimously to appoint a council subcommittee to study a technologically-based approach to public engagement. 26. PROVIDED DIRECTION TO AUTHORIZE TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR ASSEMBLYMEMBER GARCIA’S YOUNG LEGISLATORS PROGRAM: Mayor Vasquez. City Manager Livas commented that the City Manager’s office received a request from Assembly Member Garcia’s office to provide funding for the transportation of the young legislator’s program. City Manager Livas commented that the amount needed to fund a charter bus would be approximately $1,100. Council Member Saab, expressed that it was a lot of money and asked whether the Young Legislator’s Program had tried raising funds for the transportation. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton agreed that the amount seemed costly. City Manager Livas commented that 8 out of 45 students needing transportation are from Downey. Council Member Rodriguez expressed concerns about liability. Council Member Saab asked to see more options, such as using the metro station. Mayor Vasquez opened this item for public comment. Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding public transportation and against approving this item. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ashton and carried unanimously to continue this item to allow time for staff to provide more funding options. 27. STAY GALLERY FUNDING REQUEST Mayor Vasquez recused himself from this item because he owns property within 500 feet of the property mentioned in this item. Council Member Pacheco abstained from this item because she was previously on the board for Stay Gallery. Joseph Manacmul, a representative of Stay Gallery provided a presentation for the funding request. Mr. Manacmul expressed that the goal of the Stay Gallery is to provide and support opportunities for art and cultural programming and to increase the vibrancy in the City of Downey. In order for the Stay Gallery to continue to achieve its goals, Mr. Manacmul stated that the organization will need $50,000 for its rent and operating costs with a five-year strategic plan for the art community as a whole. Furthermore, Mr. Manacmul stated that the funds will ensure that the art community in Downey has a home base with stability. He also expressed the difficulty of trying to obtain money every few years. Council Member Saab inquired about the difficulty of obtaining money. Mr. Manacmul responded that when the organization requests for money in intervals smaller than five years, the organization is perceived as acting alone and without help from the city and their community. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 11 Mr. Manacmul advised the city to implement an arts subcommittee so that there may be a collective voice for the arts. Council Member Rodriguez commented that he met with a few representatives of the Stay Gallery and had asked them to provide a sample Memorandum of Understanding regarding their funding request and also a list of their donors. Council Member Rodriguez proceeded to give copies of the sample and list of donors to City Attorney and fellow council members to review. Council Member Rodriguez commented that he agreed that art is an important aspect of their community. Council Member Saab inquired about the other party of the MOU. Council Member Rodriguez said that the other party may be non-profits or organizations such as the Downey Rose Float Association. Council Member Rodriguez suggested that there be ways to generate income. Mr. Manacmul commented that there are many other cities that provide substantial monetary support to their art programs. City Manager Livas said while there are cities that have their own art commissions, it does not necessarily follow that the city provides them their primary source of funding. City Manager Livas also commented that there are two items at issue before Council tonight, a monetary one and a non- monetary one. The monetary issue is the request for $250,000 for rent and operating costs and the non-monetary issue is creating an arts subcommittee consisting of city council members and other interested individuals to find out ways to perpetuate the arts. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked Mr. Manacmul where he specifically believes the funding should come from. Mr. Manacmul responded that he believes that the Arts in Public Places fund should be utilized because he does not know how that funding is currently being used. Council Member Saab asked Director Schindler how much money the Arts in Public Places fund currently has. Director Schindler responded that there is $319,756.76, and that the challenge is that the amount of money currently gathered varies and is fluid because it depends greatly on whether developers of development projects choose to provide their own artworks instead of paying the art fee. Council Member Saab asked Director Schindler if that amount is currently accessible. Director Schindler responded that the money is fluid because many developers choose to forfeit their fee and opt to provide their own artworks. Council Member Saab inquired about the number of exhibits that the Stay Gallery has had throughout the year and whether any of them were related to school district functions. Mr. Manacmul responded that the Stay Gallery held eight exhibits with the school district last year and through those projects they developed the Stay Young Initiative where they provide opportunities to youth to showcase their art. Council Member Saab asked why the school district does not provide funding. Mr. Manacmul responded that while the school district does not provide monetary support they do provide staff and resources such as transportation. Council Member Saab inquired about Stay Gallery’s previous goals of declining their reliance on dependency. Valentin Flores, founder of the Stay Gallery, commented that at the time that statement was made they had no clue how hard that was going to be. Mr. Flores’ commented that one primary goal of the Stay Gallery is to neutralize the space to allow other organization to utilize that space. Mr. Manacmul commented that the funding they are requesting would not be used towards the payment of salaries because the Gallery is run on a volunteer basis. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 12 Mayor Pro Tem Ashton opened this item for public comment. City Clerk Jimenez commented that the city received letters from residents and nonresidents that supported the funding request. Andrew Walkwist, President of Downey Arts Coalition, commented in favor of arts programming in the City and partnership between the City and Stay Gallery for an Arts and Culture committee. City Manager Livas stated all these discussions are important however separate from the funding issue. Lawrence Christen, resident, commented in favor of City supporting the Stay Gallery with funding. Linda Saldana, resident, commented in favor of the City supporting the Stay Gallery with funding. Mark Brown, Stay Gallery Board Member, commented in favor of the City supporting the Stay Gallery with funding. Herlinda Kirby, resident, commented in favor of the City supporting the Stay Gallery with funding. Resident, no name, commented in support of the Stay Gallery and the positive contributions it has provided to the city youth. Rudy, resident, suggested allowing the residents to decide if the City should fund Stay Gallery. Ms. Sasha, commented in favor of the City supporting the Stay Gallery with funding. Michael Calvert, Executive Director for the Chamber of Commerce, commented in favor of City funding for the Stay Gallery. Ms. Lucia, resident, commented in favor of City funding for the Stay Gallery. Ms. Ana, volunteer at Stay Gallery, commented in favor of City funding for the Stay Gallery. Maria Lopez, resident, commented in favor of City funding for the Stay Gallery. Resident, no name, commented in favor of City funding for the Stay Gallery. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Pro Tem Ashton closed public comment. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton commented that while the money is at issue, the value of the art gallery outweighs the money issue and he would hate to see the Gallery cease to exist. City Attorney Abich Garcia commented that the Downey Charter requires three affirmative votes to approve money payments. In addition, City Attorney Abich Garcia expressed that there is currently an operating agreement in place between the City and Stay Gallery which includes the scope of work required on behalf of Stay Gallery. She expressed that this operating agreement would have to be reviewed before any decision is made by the Council. City Manager Livas commented regarding benchmarks all non-profit organizations have to meet regardless if they operate as a business entity or not. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting – February 14, 2017 13 Council Member Saab said he would like to be a subcommittee member to an arts subcommittee which could further explore these issues. Council Member Rodriguez expressed his desire to be part of an arts subcommittee if formed. Council Member Saab stated he will work closely with Council Member Rodriguez, Mr. Flores and Mr. Manacmul to come up with solutions and present them to the entire Council within 30 days. STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS: None. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Pro Tem Ashton adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 11:44 p.m. in memory of former Downey Mayor James. S. Santangelo; Rolette County North Dakota Sheriff Deputy Colt Allery, 29 killed in the line of duty; Chief Special Warfare Operator William "Ryan" Owens, 36, of Peoria, Illinois, who was supporting U.S. Central Command Operations; and, Harshadray Gandhy, father of Anil Gandhy, Director of Finance. MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC SEAN ASHTON City Clerk Mayor