HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 06-20-17 Special MeetingMINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNE
SPECIAL MEETING
JUNE 20, 2017 1
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Special City Council Meeting on June 20, 2017, at
4:10 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey,
California, Mayor Vasquez presiding.
7:7
Council Members:
Fernando Vasquez
Sean Ashton
Blanca Pacheco
Rick Rodriguez
Alex Saab
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tem
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager
Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney
Alicia Duarte, CMC, Interim 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
Monica Ortiz, Interim Recreation Manager
Aldo Schindler, Community Development Director
Anil Gandhy, Finance Director
Mayor Vasquez opened the meeting for Public Comment. Having no one come forward Mayor
Vasquez closed Public Comment.
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Finance.
City Manager Livas stated Finance Director Gandhy would provide the budget presentation. City
Manager Livas thanked the Staff, Mayor Vasquez and Council Member Saab who sat in the Budget
Subcommittee. He stated there were three budget workshops one of which was dedicated to pension
issues. One of the challenges this year was facing a $2 million deficit because of the new discount rate
however; he commented that Department Heads worked hard to overcome this hurdle. He stated that
the process of creating the budget began in January after the Council's Goals and Priorities workshop.
Lastly, he thanked Finance Director Gandhy for working countless hours on the City's proposed budget.
Finance Director Gandhy stated the City's budget is $28 million, with $85,231,802 being the
proposed operating revenue and $85,215,607 being the proposed operating appropriation. He stated
that the budget surplus would be $16,195 and the ending reserves would be $28,717,392 which is an
amount similar to what the City began with.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Director Gandhy discussed the City's revenues. He stated the revenue is made up of the
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created by the Finance Department reflects the highest sources of revenue and the remainder is
identified in the category labeled "Other." He mentioned Property Tax revenue increased to $1.2 million
and the Utility Users Tax revenue decreased by 4% due to lower electricity revenue being collected.
Council Member Saab asked Director Gandhy why the Utilities User Tax revenue has
decreased. Director Gandhy explained that electricity revenue has decreased and in speaking to other
cities it appears to be a County -wide problem.
City Manager Livas stated that one of the advantages of installing LED lighting is that a
consumer's electrical bill decreases therefore revenue from electricity is affected.
Director Gandhy reported that the JPCC and Ambulance revenue went up to $81,565. He
explained that "transfers from other funds" on the chart refers to Vehicle Impact Fees collected from
CalTrans being moved to other portions of the general fund which creates no change in the overall
revenue of the City. The "Other" category refers to about three to four pages of different revenue
sources such as bus license fees, vehicle parking tickets, rent, Aspire Program fees, plan check fees,
and Recreation revenue.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether all of the City's leases are at market rate and whether that
funding is going into the general fund and has been allocated. Director Gandhy stated yes.
Director Gandhy directed Council Member Saab's attention to the slide depicting Utility Users
Tax revenues from previous fiscal years. He pointed out that electric revenue are the only revenue
source that has decreased from previous years; and, gas and telephone revenues have remained the
same. He stated the gas budget for this fiscal year is $895,000, and the electric budget this year
decreased from $4,110,000 to $3,760,000.
Director Gandhy proceeded onto the next slide of his presentation which contained a chart
illustrating the Property Tax budget from previous years and the proposed current year which shows an
increase.
Director Gandhy talked about the Sales Tax budget from previous years and the proposed
current year which shows an increase of $4.3 million due to Measure S funds. Mayor Pro Tem Ashton
asked Director Gandhy whether the Measure S funding contains the full funding for the year. Director
Gandhy responded that the Measure S funding depicted on the slide is only a portion of the overall
amount expected.
City Manager Livas clarified that the Measure S funds are a lesser amount this year because
the City started collecting in April.
Director Gandhy referred to the slide showing Utility Users Tax revenue from previous years
and the proposed fiscal year.
Director Gandhy referred to the following slide depicting a pie chart of general fund expenditures
for the proposed fiscal year 2017-2018. He stated together, the Fire and Police Departments account
for about 63% of the City's expenditures.
City Manager Livas explained public safety expenditures for cities is usually around 65% - 70%
of total general fund allocation. He stated public safety is the most expensive expenditure for a city.
Mayor Vasquez added that CalPers is controlled by Sacramento. He stated that according to
the legislature, for every dollar spent on public safety 75 cents goes to CalPers retirement funds and
the City has no control over changing that amount.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Director Gandhy continued his presentation of the City's proposed general fund expenditures.
He stated 12% of the City's general fund will be allocated to General Government which is $10 million.
The General Government expenditures include: City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, Finance
Department, and Human Resources. 10% of the general fund expenditure will be allocated to
Community Services which amounts to $8.9 million and 7% will be allocated Public Works which
amounts to $6 million. Director Gandhy mentioned that if the City were to remove the Measure S
revenue from the budget, the City's budget would decrease by $800,000 from last year.
Director Gandhy mentioned this year's budget does not reflect $100,000 that would have been
budgeted for election.
Director Gandhy presented the City's proposed expenditures for the Police Department. He
mentioned that this year's Police Department budget will have an increase of $2.7 million. He stated the
Police Department is adding ten new police officers which will cost about $1.9 million. The Department
also hired one public safety dispatcher, one systems network engineer, and two parking enforcement
officers. The new employee cost the City around $400,000. The rest of the monies would be allocated
to first response calls.
Director Gandhy presented the City's proposed expenditures for the Fire Department. He
mentioned $800,000 was budgeted for this year's proposed expenditures for the Fire Department. The
Fire Department will be adding one fire captain for training, one ambulance operator coordinator and six
ambulance operators. The amount of $680,000 will be allocated to the newly hired employees and the
other $200,000 is for PERS costs.
Mayor Vasquez commented on the importance of outsourcing positions due to CalPERS costs
associated with bringing in new positions. He stated that there were certain positions that were not
added to the budget due to this reason.
Director Gandhy stated that 90% of Measure S funds are going to Public Safety. He also stated
that the Public Works Department proposed budget has increased by $244,000; the Community
Services Department's budget has increased by $779,000 of which $400,000 are for the Theater and
$150,000 is for part-time wages and the difference will be allocated to CaIPERs; the Community
Development Department budget will see a decrease in $689,000; and the Transfers Out will see a
decrease of $400,000.
Director Gandhy provided an economic overview of the City. Overall the City's revenue and
expenditures for FY 2016-2017 are aligning with the budget; the U.S. Economy has been in steady but
slow -growth mode for years; unemployment is at its lowest since September 2008 with the City of
Downey having an unemployment rate of 3.6% and the State of California having an unemployment
rate of 4.2%; and, taxable sales and property values have continued to grow. He mentioned that the
City's income levels are above County and National values; the City's median household income is
104% and 108% of the County and National average respectively, and the City's median effective
buying income is 104% and 109% of the County and National average respectively.
Director Gandhy proceeded to present on the challenges ahead for the City. He mentioned: the
City will be catching up on deferred maintenance, revenue growth will be needed to keep track with
expenditure growth, the City will need to continue to re -align the budget based on what the City can
truly afford, he mentioned that growth in expenditures has out -paced the growth in revenues, and
adding to this a significant backlog of unfunded needs that if not addressed will inevitably deteriorate
the quality of infrastructure and services the Downey community has grown to expect. Another
challenge Director Gandhy mentioned was the ongoing increases in pension costs. Lastly, Director
Gandhy cited a quote from Governor Brown which stated, "...economic expansions do not last forever.
In the post-war period, the average expansion has been about five years, and the current expansion is
approaching three years longer than that. A moderate recession will drop state revenue by about $20
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
billion annually for several years. He commented the City is in its eighth year currently of experiencing
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City Manager Livas mentioned one of things the City does have control over is its labor costs.
He mentioned that the City of Downey has one of lowest amount of employees in comparison to other
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hiring new employees and it has also consulted with contractors when appropriate. Lastly, he
mentioned that the City is aware that a recession might occur but that they have been strategic in their
budget as a response.
Director Gandhy provided an overview of how PERs has impacted the City's general fund. The
reasons for the PERs increases are due to the: Change in discount rate from 7.75% to 7.5% (started in
FY 2013-14); changes in the actuarial methodology (started in FY 2015-16); changes in mortality
assumptions (started in FY 2016-17); and the revised discount rate from 7.5% to 7% (starting in FY
2017-18).
Mayor Vasquez asked Director Gandhy if one of the reasons why the City is facing challenges
related to PERs is due to the legislature being off on their numbers based on their financial
assumptions. Director Gandhy responded it is hard to say if they are off on their numbers. He stated
that in 2005 the City was not paying into CalPERs because there was too much funding. According to
Director Gandhy, it was not until the 2007 recession that it started going downhill. He stated that in his
opinion the legislature was probably very optimistic about earnings. He stated the increase in the
retirement formula and also for police greatly affected CalPERs.
City Manager Livas commented that overall he believes that is accurate because the legislature
has been modifying their projections downwards because they have not been hitting their mark.
Director Gandhy stated that in 2011 it was 26.72%, in 2017-2018 it was 45%, and if the
economy does not hold up it is projected that it will be 76%.
Director Gandhy then proceeded to show a graph illustrating the reserve percentage of the
City's Operating General Fund. He stated that 15% of the general fund is kept in the Emergency
Reserve which can be dipped into if there are natural disasters such as earthquakes and 20% is kept in
the Stability Reserve.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked Director Gandhy what percentage is appropriate for the City to be
in for reserves.
Director Gandhy responded that the appropriate percentage for the City to be in right now is
35% which is where it is at.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked how long the reserves would carry the City over in the worst case
scenario. Director Gandhy stated that the reserves would carry the City for about two years.
Council Member Saab stated that it would be difficult to estimate because there will be changes
by then.
City Manager Livas stated Council Member Saab is right and it depends on what types of
reductions the City can make to stretch funding longer. For example, he stated, during the recession at
one point the City withdrew over $1 million from the reserves but depending on the situation
withdrawing from the reserves can be managed slower.
Mayor Pro tem Ashton clarified that he was just making sure that the City is being prudent with
money and wants to ensure the reserves can cover any emergency longer than six months.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
City Manager Livas commented that many cities would love to have that kind of reserves
Downey has. He explained that some cities have more but a significant amount of cities only have 10%
in reserves.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton explained that he is interested in what is best for the City of Downey.
Council Member Rodriguez added that while it is important to have 35% allocated for
emergency reserves it is also important for each department of the City to know what forecasting
means and how it's important to generate revenue without raising taxes.
City Manager Livas stated the Department Heads would now present highlights and important
accomplishments for their individual departments.
Director Gandhy proceeded to present on the Finance Department's accomplishments for FY
2016-17. Some of the Finance Department's accomplishments are: Phase I of Automated Water Billing
and the implementation of paperless Utility Billing.
Mayor Vasquez asked Director Gandhy for the percentage of residents who are paying their
water bills online. Director Gandhy responded that 25% of the residents are paying their bills online and
that 10% of the 25% have opted to go paperless.
Director Gandhy mentioned that the Finance Department has been working with the City's
Department to create a purchasing policy which will be brought to City Council for approval in the near
future.
Council Member Saab asked Director Gandhy when the fee study will to the City Council for
review and approval. Director Gandhy responded that the fee study will be brought to City Council
during the first meeting of July.
Director Gandhy proceeded to talk about the Finance Department's Goals for FY 2017-18.
Some of the department's goals include: Automating the purchase order approval process and the City-
wide Fixed Asset Inventory.
City Manager Livas gave a brief presentation of the City Clerk's Department. He stated that
some of the Department's accomplishments for FY 2016-17 are: Responding to 495 Public Information
Requests and processing of 100 plus subpoenas. He mentioned one of the things the Department
wants to move forward with is implementing technology changes that will help the City become more
efficient such as transitioning into electronic records keeping. Another goal the Department wants to
accomplish is to hire a new City Clerk.
Mayor Vasquez asked if the Department has completed converting all hard copy documents into
digital format. City Manager stated that the Department has not finished converting all hard copy
documents into electronic format.
Mayor Vasquez asked Interim City Clerk Duarte the percentage of documents that have been
converted into digital form. Interim City Clerk Duarte responded that there are some documents that
have to be maintained in paper format but now that they City has implemented a new retention
schedule the Department will continue to move forward on the conversion to electronic records. She
stated that she does not know for certain the percentage of documents that have been converted.
Mayor Vasquez asked if the conversions will be complete by the end of the upcoming fiscal
year. City Manager Livas responded that he estimates that around 75% of the documents will be
converted by the end of the following fiscal year.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
City Attorney Abich Garcia provided a brief overview of the City Attorney's Department budget.
rrifxl Attorney Abich Garcia stated that one of the accomplishments for the C,ty Attorney's Off,ce flys
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year is that they closing the number of lawsuits the City has in its books. Currently, she stated, the City
has five lawsuits against them: two of which are being defended by third parties' insurance companies
who have stepped up on behalf of their insured to defend the City. Therefore, she stated, there are
three lawsuits that the City has been defending. City Attorney Abich Garcia mentioned that the City was
able to resolve two lawsuits that were covered by insurance. The City was able to obtain full
reimbursement for attorney fees totaling $53,000.
City Attorney Abich Garcia mentioned another accomplishment is the commencement of the
ADA self-evaluation transition plan process and the implementation of a grievance program in
compliance with the American's Disability Act.
City Attorney Abich Garcia mentioned some goals for the Department are: Finish the self-
evaluation process with a completed transition plan; continue to assist the City in the implementation of
the ADA's transition plan and best practices; and, continue to reduce the number of City claims,
litigation, and legal expenses.
Council Member Saab asked City Attorney Abich Garcia what she believes to be the city's
biggest challenge this year. City Attorney Abich Garcia responded that the ADA issue will continue to
be a challenge. She stated that she and the Assistant to the City Manager DeLong are becoming the
ADA experts for the City. She stated that the escalation of inquiries and claims the City obtains
regarding requests for reasonable accommodations will keep the City busy.
Council Member Saab asked City Attorney Abich Garcia whether most of the claims the City
receives are reasonable. City Attorney Abich Garcia responded that the City obtains claims that are
mostly inquiries or referrals from people that need resources. An example she provided was handling
inquiries about housing disability issues that are outside of the City's jurisdiction. The other claims the
City obtains, she stated, are reasonable and legitimate claims.
Council Member Saab asked City Attorney Abich Garcia whether there are federal grants
available to address ADA implementation policies. City Attorney Abich Garcia responded she was not
aware of any federal grants.
City Manager Livas commented that when the City obtains federal money the City will allocate
some towards ADA compliance which includes having projects done for the library, theatre, roadworks
and sidewalks.
Council Member Saab asked whether most of the inquiries received are regarding Parks and
Recreation. City Attorney Abich Garcia stated that most inquiries received are regarding sidewalks,
right of ways, and accessibility. She also stated that some inquiries are regarding facilities. She stated
that most inquiries are regarding lack of sidewalks and narrow sidewalks.
Council Member Saab asked whether the City is being reactive rather than proactive when it
comes to ADA issues. City Attorney Abich Garcia responded that once the transition plan is drafted the
City will have a schedule regarding the priorities and the timeframe for fixing public right issues, facility
issues, and other issues.
Council Member Saab asked how the City will be able to prevent people from taking advantage
of the ADA transition plan, since it is a public document. City Attorney Abich Garcia agreed that the
ADA transition plan would be a public document and that the approach has been to fix the issues and
work with people when claims are brought foward.
City Manager Livas commented that Assistant City Manager Oskoui has experience with
facilities and asked him to provide comments.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Assistant City Manager Oskoui commented that by law, the first step that is required is to
identify the needs and to develop a transition plan. He stated that the transition plan will reduce the risk
of exposure because the City will have documented what it needs to address. He also stated that the
City is not obligated to complete all the necessary transactions to correct the City's shortcomings but it
is obligated to present a plan because there are budgetary constraints. He stated that based on his
recollection; there is $8 billion worth of improvements that are needed in order to make the public
facilities ADA compliant. Lastly, he mentioned that the law understands that the City will not be able to
make all necessary corrections within a short period of time. He stated that as long as the City develops
a plan and follows it and says within the City budgetary limitations the City will be fine.
Shannon DeLong, Assistant to the City Manager provided the presentation for the City
Manager's Office. Some accomplishment she mentioned are: the launching of the Innovation and
Technology Team whose aim was efficiency and cost -savings for the City. She stated that the City
Manager's Office served as the lead agency for the Gateway Cities City Manager Meetings for 28
cities. Some goals for the Department are: the City Manager's Office will concentrate on the branding
and marketing for the Council under the Council's direction to develop charitable contribution and
community organizational support policies. She also stated the City Manager's Office will continue to
explore new ways to implement technological improvements.
Ms. DeLong proceeded with her presentation pertaining to the City Library. She thanked City
Council for their support as they implemented new programs for the Library. She stated the library
implemented an automated check-out machine and the laptop loaner program. The library will have
welcomed 370,000 visitors by the end of the fiscal year. In comparison with the median public library in
the State of California, Ms. DeLong stated that the Downey City Library sees about double the number
of visitors per hour of operation. She stated that the Library checks out 375 materials per hour they are
open and that the operation costs of the Library are almost less than half of what the median of other
libraries operate at. In addition she stated that per Library card holder, the Library operates at about
half of what it costs other libraries.
For the upcoming fiscal year, Ms. DeLong expressed the Library's excitement to launch the
scenic network. She stated that the Library's Wi-Fi hardware has been ordered and will be coming in
soon. She stated that the Library has a 90% rating on its customer service evaluations and that they
wish to continue to keep those ratings. Lastly, she stated that the Library is excited to implement its
interior master plan which would include improving shelving and accessibility for patrons.
City Manager Livas acknowledged and thanked Ms. DeLong for her work at the Downey City
Library. He announced there will be an upcoming organizational change next fiscal year. He stated that
Ben Dickow will oversee the Library in addition to the Columbia Memorial Space Center so that both
locations may share resources. Lastly, he thanked Ms. DeLong for overseeing the Downey Library for
five and half years.
Director of Human Resources Youssefieh provided the presentation for the Human Resources
Department. Ms. Youssefieh stated that the Human Resources Department oversees recruitment,
classification, employee labor relations, training, employee benefits and a variety of management
consultations.
Director Youssefieh stated that during the last fiscal year the Department dealt with a difficult
personnel litigation matter. The Department also completed labor negotiations with four bargaining units
and implemented structural changes in the office which involved upgrading an Administrative Aide to a
Human Resources Analyst to assist with professional decision making. She stated that the Department
has become more strategic in the area of recruiting for Public Safety. She also stated that they hired
190 employees for the Parks & Recreation Department.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Director Youssefieh proceeded to update the Council on the Department's goals for the
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implementing a leadership and management development program and implementing technology and
software programs to become more efficient.
City Manager Livas emphasized that the Human Resources Department has focused on
conducting more leadership trainings, building succession and making sure that people have a pathway
for growth in the City. He mentioned the Department conducted a survey on the mission and value
statement of the City. He stated that they are working on institutionalizing the mission and values so
that new employees understand what the City's mission and values are. He also emphasized the value
of ethics and the importance of being vigilant and practicing what is preached. He stated that they will
continue to do this the upcoming year.
Council Member Rodriguez stated that he understands the need for a web -based employee
training program. However, he stated he would like to continue with face-to-face contact. Director
Youssefieh stated the goal is to become more efficient in order to have one-on-one time with
employees and supervisors.
The next presentation was given by Director of Community Development Schindler. Director
Schindler proceeded to talk about the Department's accomplishments. Some of the accomplishments
include: the job creation stemming from Downey Nissan, completing 20 projects under the City's Home
Improvement Grant and Rebate Assistance Program, and completing grant agreement negotiations
with Metro for a $425,000 grant for Rancho Los Amigos South Campus/Eco Rapid Transit Line Specific
Plan. Some of the Departments goals for FY 2017-18 include: continuing economic growth by
revitalizing commercial corridors and auto dealerships; fostering Downtown Downey growth; continuing
to facilitate the development of quality residential projects; and, maintaining a high level of customer
service. Some of the projects the Department is working on include: a Downtown housing project, a
housing project on Firestone Blvd, a Habitat for Humanity project and a Townhome project on Imperial
and Tweedy. He also mentioned another goal is to complete the development area of the Back 20. He
mentioned that the site is contemplating their leases to include a hotel and medical offices. Lastly, he
mentioned Kaiser Permanente is expanding their campus.
City Manager Livas highlighted that last year the City opened 130 new businesses. He stated
that the physical nature of the City has changed in a positive way. He thanked the Council for their
leadership and their direction.
Council Member Saab asked Director Schindler what are some of the challenges the
Department will face this upcoming year. Director Schindler responded that one of the challenges they
are facing is keeping up with the market and continuing to work with technological enhancements.
He stated the Department is excited to work with technological enhancements that will allow for
quicker applicant processing.
Police Chief Charles provided the presentation for the Police Department. Chief Charles stated
that during the past fiscal year the Police Department hired and trained 13 new Police Officers, four
part-time Park Rangers, three part-time Police Aides, two full-time and two part-time Police
Dispatchers, and a full-time Records Supervisor. Next, he spoke about the Department's
accomplishments and goals. Some of the Police Department's accomplishments include: securing
more than half a million dollars in public safety grants and launching the Park Ranger Program and
Volunteer Program.
Council Member Saab asked Police Chief Charles how the programs were doing. Police Chief
Charles responded that the programs were doing well. He stated that the Park Ranger Program has
been very effective and that they have decreased the amount of time the Police Officers spend at the
parks.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Council Member Saab asked if there has been a significant decrease. Police Chief Charles
stated that there has been a decrease in the amount of Police Officers at the parks. He also mentioned
that for the Volunteer Program there have been three new volunteers who started last week.
Council Member Saab asked whether there was a good response from the community in
regards to the Volunteer Program. Police Chief Charles stated that there was a good response from the
community. He mentioned that one volunteer works at the front desk, another volunteer at the Records
section, and the third is in Forensics.
Council Member Saab asked whether the department has noticed fewer calls for disturbances
at the parks due to the presence of Park Rangers. Police Chief Charles stated that the Park Rangers
log all of their activity and that they have been kept busy.
Council Member Pacheco asked whether the Park Rangers were stationed one per park. Police
Chief Charles responded that two have been stationed at Independence Park and one at Apollo Park,
but that they do move around.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether the Park Rangers are hourly or salary. Police Chief Charles
responded that the Park Rangers are hourly.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether the Park Rangers work over time. Police Chief Charles
responded they do not.
Police Chief Charles mentioned some of the Department's accomplishments which include: 25
new automated license plate readers at 10 locations; 15 new Neighborhood Watch Groups; and,
ballistic helmets and vests for all Police Officers.
Mayor Vasquez asked when the new canine will begin. Police Chief Charles stated that the new
canine begin next week.
Council Member Saab inquired as to whether the City bills other agencies who use the City's
canines. Police Chief Charles stated that the City does not bill and that it is a reciprocal process. Police
Chief Charles stated prior to the City having its own canines; they would borrow from other agencies,
such as South Gate.
Police Chief Charles presented the Police Department's goals for the upcoming fiscal year. One
of the goals is to continue recruitment efforts to fill the 10 new Police Officer positions.
Council Member Saab inquired as to the number of applications for Police Officer positions the
City has received. Police Chief Charles stated the City received at least 300 — 400 applications.
Council Member Saab what the cost is to train an officer. Police Chief Charles responded that
the cost for the 6 month training program which includes salary, uniform and equipment is about
$50,000 to $60,000.
Chief Charles stated another Police Department goal is to continue engagement with
community through social media and community events; replace the current police radio system with an
interoperable system; and continue homeless sweeps and outreach.
Mayor Vasquez asked City Manager Livas how the homeless sweeps and outreach ties in with
the City's proposed budget for the homeless non-profit organization. Council Member Saab stated that
the non-profit organization has an officer that acts as a liaison. He stated that the non -profit's
involvement may or may not reduce some of the police necessity.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Council Member Rodriguez stated that the organization has three officers. He also mentioned
that the organization Coast to Coast works with police enforcement every day.
Mayor Vasquez mentioned the City has allocated $100,000 to address homelessness. One of
the things the City is doing is partnering with Coast to Coast, an organization that has successfully
combated homelessness issues in the City of Fullerton. One of the things Coast to Coast does is work
with police officers to help reunite homeless people with their families.
City Manager Livas commented that the homeless sweeps will add another layer of advocacy.
Mayor Vasquez commented he hopes the City's efforts will result in a reduction of homeless
people in the City. He mentioned that the City is being proactive towards the homelessness situation
rather than reactive.
Council Member Rodriguez stated that the homeless population in Los Angeles County is over
57,000 and that 250 homeless live in Downey. He expressed his optimism or the Downey Police
Department working with Coast to Coast to tackle homelessness issues. He stated that a police officer
should not work as a case worker or social worker and that their efforts should instead focus on public
safety. He mentioned that Coast to Coast will provide the case worker services needed.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked what the Police Department's biggest challenges are for the
upcoming fiscal year. Police Chief Charles stated property crime due to the passage of Propositions 57
and 109 is the biggest challenge for the Department. He stated that the increase in property crimes is
not unique to the City but rather that it is a statewide concern. He stated the Department is holding
strategy meetings to come up with solutions.
Council Member Rodriguez commented on the retirement of several Police Officers in the near
future and said it is time to recruit.
Mayor Vasquez inquired as to how the City is doing in regards to the absorbing the costs
involved with retirees and additional Police Officers. Police Chief Charles stated that the six to eight
police officer retirees will not affect the City because they were able to fill those positions with new
Police Officers.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether at the end of this fiscal year the City have covered the costs of
hiring 10 new Police Officers. Police Chief Charles responded that the City will be well on its way by the
end of the fiscal year with having all of them hired.
Council Member Saab asked whether hiring the additional officers will reduce the need for
overtime hours. Police Chief Charles responded that it would reduce the amount of overtime.
Council Member Saab asked whether the Police Department has considered augmenting the
potential vacancies and having a reserve program where the City can have retired officers come back
and work on a per diem basis. Police Chief Charles responded that the Police Department has
considered such a program and they have discussed it with Human Resources. They are currently
researching the feasibility of the program.
Council Member Saab asked whether the community volunteer program consists of people who
are up to par. Police Chief Charles stated that he was impressed with group of volunteers.
Council Member Saab asked whether the Police Department is confident in their equipment.
Police Chief Charles stated that the Department has good mechanisms in place which include having a
security system.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Council Member Saab asked whether the new police cars are in this year's budget. Police Chief
Charles stated that this year's budget does not include any new police cars and that they are fine with
the amount that they have right now.
Parks and Recreation Director Pamela Passow provided an overview of the Parks and
Recreation Department's accomplishments and goals. She mentioned one of the biggest
accomplishments this year is completing the Parks and Open Space Master Plan.
Council Member Saab asked Director Passow what Commissions the Department currently has.
Director Passow responded that the Department has the Youth Commission, Recreation and
Community Services Commission and the Downey Cemetery District.
Council Member Saab asked if she has seen any potential changes that can be done with the
Youth Commission in an effort to keep the Commission as engaging as possible. Director Passow
responded that she aims to enable a more active role for participants of the Youth Commission as
opposed to participants merely attending events. She expressed an idea the Department has to have a
job fair where Youth Commissioners recruit other youth in the community. Some other ideas the
Department has for the Youth Commission are: resume building workshops and workforce preparation
workshops.
Director Passow shared the Department's accomplishments. She stated that the biggest
accomplishment is the improvements at the Downey Civic Theatre which included the air conditioning
system and the restrooms.
Council Member Saab thanked Assistant City Manager John Oskoui and Sonya Meacham for
their great job on the Theatre.
Director Passow continued her presentation of the Department's accomplishments. She
commented on some of the events the Department held which included the Annual Ride & Stride Event
and Special Olympics. She stated park attendance is expected to be 1,630,000. Other Department
accomplishments include: Coordinating and offering 24 community wide events; installing two new
playgrounds; and, installing two new fitness equipment areas. In regards to fee -supported programs
she mentioned, there are 8,500 senior participants in 130 enrichment classes and over 200 contract
classes with more than 8,700 participants.
Council Member Saab asked for further information regarding the Park Ranger Program.
Specifically, he wanted to know whether the City has been getting their money's worth from it. Director
Passow stated that the City has been getting their money's worth from the program. She stated that
many times when people see a Police Officer they get scared however when speaking with Park
Rangers they are more comfortable when being explained the rules.
Director Passow thanked the City Council for approving converting the Rio Hondo Golf Course
irrigation system to recycled water.
Council Member Saab asked when the new carpet and new audio system will be installed at the
Golf Course. Director Passow stated that the flooring has been chosen and she expects it will be
replaced soon. In regards to the audio system she responded the system is being worked on because it
experienced compatibility issues.
Council Member Saab asked whether the Department is looking at diversifying the food at the
Rio Hondo Golf Couse since the menu has been the same for years. Director Passow stated the
Department will work with the contractor to address that concern.
Director Passow commented on the usage of the Golf Course and stated over 58,000 rounds of
golf have been played.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Mayor Vasquez mentioned that last year the City became more flexible with having more golf
tournaments and asked whether there has been an increase in golf tournaments since then. Director
Passow stated that there has been an increase in golf tournaments since then and that they have been
of higher quality.
Council Member Saab commented that more local groups have been inclined to use the facility
Director Passow stated that there has been great cooperation between the facility's contractors
such as the banquet contractor and the tournament contractor. Since the contractors work well
together, the tournaments have been successful.
Council Member Saab asked if marketing the golf course is handled by the contractor of the
City. Director Passow stated the golfing portion is funded and handled with the City's budget and the
concessions marketing is funded and handled by the contractor.
Council Member Saab asked when the facility will become net neutral. Director Passow stated
that currently the facility could be making more money than it is spending had it not been for the major
improvement expenses to the facility.
Council Member Saab asked if the facility has an improvement fund. Director Passow stated
that the facility has an improvement fund but some of the recent improvements made to the facility
superseded the fund which required additional funding from the general fund.
Council Member Saab asked if the caterer is responsible for some of the facility improvements.
City Manager Livas responded the caterer is responsible for some improvements.
Assistant City Manager Oskoui commented on the facility's improvement fund and said it is
limited and will not be able to cover the ongoing improvements needed at the facility. He suggested the
City set aside three to five percent of the facility's current value for operation and deferred maintenance
expenses.
Council Member Saab asked how the City will be able to set aside funding. City Manager Livas
stated that the facility is very valuable to the City and that is why the City has been spending money to
improve it. He commented the biggest challenge is determining what the best practice is in terms of the
amount of funding that should be set aside. He added the City is not in a position to set monies aside
on a consistent basis.
Council Member Saab suggested the Council form a Golf Course Subcommittee. City Manager
Livas agreed with Council Member Saab's suggestion. He commented on the importance of taking care
of deferred maintenance and commented on the recent improvements made at City Hall which included
replacing the roof. He stated he will add the agenda item to create the Golf Course Subcommittee to
the next City Council Agenda.
Director Passow continued her presentation and stated the Department is researching ways of
retaining and increasing the amount of patrons at the Golf Course. She expressed her Department's
excitement for the acquisition of the four new City minivans. She commented on making some changes
to the Department's services and reviewing services on a monthly basis.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked how the new bus routes are doing. Director Passow stated that
the first week of the new route was difficult due to patrons not being familiar with the routes; however,
she stated, they held public meetings where transit staff were able to assist patrons and explain the
different routes. She mentioned patrons have become accustomed to the different routes.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Next, Director Passow proceeded to present on the Department's goals. Some of the goals
include implementing site specific master plan designs and capital improvement projects.
Council Member Saab asked how the Department was implementing the site specific master
plan. Director Passow responded the Department will be hiring a consultant if funding is approved and
the consultant review the City's parks and take into consideration the site plan to determine what
adjustments need to be made.
Council Member Saab asked whether the consultant will also review classes and courses
offered. Director Passow responded that the consultant will focus on the physical aspect of the parks
rather than the recreational aspect.
Council Member Saab asked if the consultant will be obtaining public input from the community.
Director Passow responded that they were.
Director Passow stated that the Parks and Recreation Department will also be working with the
Public Works Department on grant -funded projects.
Council Member Pacheco asked Director Passow whether the Department has assessed other
parks that may need light installations aside from Apollo and Furman Park. Director Passow responded
the Public Works Department has done a great job at assessing other parks and they are hopeful that
through grant money they will be able to install lights in those parks as well. She stated they are
installing the lights in phases as opposed to all at once since it is not economically feasible during this
time.
Council Member Pacheco asked whether Apollo and Furman Parks are in dire need of light
installations. Director Passow responded that they are and the light installations are being grant funded.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton asked which other parks are in need of lighting installations aside from
Apollo and Furman Park. Director Passow responded Independence Park is in need of improvements.
Assistant City Manager Oskoui mentioned that a portion of Measure S funds are being set aside
for the funding for parks and facility improvements. He stated that a majority of the funds will go
towards deferred maintenance.
Mayor Vasquez recessed the City Council meeting at 6:08 p.m. Mayor Vasquez reconvened the
City Council meeting at 6:13 p.m. with all Council Members present.
Chief Gillaspie provided an overview of the Fire Department's accomplishments and goals.
Some of the Department's accomplishments include: 11,300 emergency incident responses; 6,133
patients transported to local hospitals; SMART 911 Services; adopted the new Downey Fire Code; final
stages of City's Hazard Mitigation Plan; $71,000 State Homeland Security Grant; and, restructured
Joint Powers Communications Center Contract with Compton and Santa Fe Springs.
Council Member Saab inquired about a grant the City obtained and asked whether the grant
was ongoing. Fire Chief Gillaspie responded that the grant was not ongoing and that it expired two
years ago.
Chief Gillaspie mentioned additional accomplishments of the Department include: Improved
Ground Emergency Medical Transportation Revenue; implementation of new Ballistic Personal
Protective Equipment in Service; replacement of Assistant Fire Chief's vehicle; Respiratory Fit Testing
Machine; Fire Station 3 perimeter fencing; and, new promotions and recruitment which include: One
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Assistant Chief, one Battalion Chief, one Fire Captain, two Fire Engineers, four Paramedics, six
Firefighter/Paramedics, one Fire Dispatcher, and one City Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.
Next, Chief Gillaspie provided an overview of the Fire Department's goals for the upcoming
fiscal year. Some of the goals include: Improving organizational communications and morale;
completing the Fire Station Facilities Master Plan by working with Assistant City Manager Oskoui;
completing the Radio Communications Master Plan Improvements by working with the Police and
Public Works Departments; updating Department Policies and Procedures; and, implementing the
Paramedic Engine Delivery Model by placing two additional ambulances in service.
Council Member Saab asked Chief Gillaspie when he anticipates the two additional ambulances
will be in service. Chief Gillaspie responded the additional ambulances will be in service within three
months.
Council Member Saab asked how much time is needed after the ambulances are deployed to
be able to gauge whether this approach has been successtul. Fire Chiet Gillaspie responded the
Department has implemented benchmarks and performance analytics to monitor the assessments. He
stated he estimates it would be about a year before the department can obtain a good assessment and
compare data from a year ago.
Council Member Saab asked what are some of the benchmarks being implemented. Chief
Gillaspie responded one benchmark being reviewed is response times.
Council Member Saab asked whether response times will be reduced. Chief Gillaspie
responded the response times are expected to be reduced from 8 minutes to 5 minutes.
Council Member Saab inquired about the Department receiving emergency calls from
convalescent homes or similar facilities. Fire Chief Gillaspie responded that the City has retained the
right to bill only for transport.
Mayor Vasquez inquired about a policy that was discussed in previous years regarding ground
transportation fees. He asked what the current policy states. Chief Gillaspie responded since the
adoption of the fee, Proposition 26 has come into effect and as a result the Department has been
working with City Attorney Garcia to reevaluate the fee.
Mayor Vasquez inquired about other cities' practices regarding ground transportation fees. Chief
Gillaspie responded that most cities do not have excessive EMS fees.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether other cities have a high concentration of hospitals. Chief
Gillaspie responded that most cities do not and mentioned Downey has two hospitals.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether the City can bill Medi -Cal or HMO for ground transportation fees.
Fire Chief Gillaspie responded no.
Council Member Pacheco asked which of the two hospitals incurs more cost to the City as it
relates to ground transportation fees. Chief Gillaspie responded Kaiser because they have more
medical offices and the hospital is significantly larger than PIH.
Council Member Saab asked Chief Gillaspie whether he believes the increase in emergency
calls has been due to the Downey Promenade. Chief Gillaspie responded and said he has not seen a
significant increase in calls from the Downey Promenade.
Chief Gillaspie continued his presentation on the Fire Department's goals for the upcoming
fiscal year. Some of the goals include: Improve Life Safety through increased Fire Protection and create
a new Department Training Officer and Ambulance Coordinator positions.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Public Works Director Mostahkami gave an overview of the Public Works Department's
accomplishments and goals. One of the Department's accomplishments includes over $19 million in
Public Works Improvements including streets, water, sewer, storm drain, and facilities. Another
accomplishment is street and traffic safety improvements that have been completed on Gardendale St.
Firestone Blvd. He mentioned the Bellflower Blvd. and Imperial Hwy. intersection improvements should
be completed within two weeks.
The Public Works Department also has completed several water, sewer, and storm drain
improvement projects including: Rehabilitation of five groundwater wells; painting of 1,200 fire hydrants,
and a Bioswale Stormwater Capture on Firestone Blvd. Other improvements accomplished by the
Department are: Apollo and Independence Parks playground equipment installations; Golden and
Apollo Parks fitness equipment installation; and, Orange Estates entry and street name signs. He
mentioned that all of the improvements made would not have been completed had it not been for the
over $7 million in grants and $1 million in SCE On -Bill Financing and Incentives.
Next, the Director Mostahkami provided an overview of the goals of the Public Works
Department for the upcoming fiscal year which include over $29 million in Public Works improvement
projects including the Lakewood Blvd. Improvement Project.
Mayor Vasquez asked what the timing is for the Lakewood Blvd. Improvement Project. Director
Mostahkami responded that they have recently received plan comments from Cal Trans and they are
hoping to send the project out to bid within four months. He also mentioned that the Department is
working on sending a fact sheet to Sacramento to request an exception to allow the City to move
forward with the project despite the stringent requirements by Cal Trans.
Director Mostahkami stated additional goals of the Department which includes: Sidewalk and
miscellaneous concrete improvements; residential street pavement rehabilitation and slurry seal;
Lakewood Blvd. pedestrian and street lighting upgrades to LED lights as well as repainting of poles;
and, potable water improvements at various locations.
Mayor Vasquez asked whether the abandoned water well will be replaced. Director Mostahkami
responded that the existing abandoned water well will be replaced.
Mayor Vasquez inquired about the cost of a water well including labor costs. Director
Mostahkami stated the cost of a water well including labor costs is approximately $3 million.
Director Mostahkami stated that the City was going to install water meters, trash capture and
perform sewer inspections. In addition, he stated that Apollo and Furman Parks are in the design phase
right now as they aim to improve the walking trails and install new lighting fixtures. He stated the City
Council had already approved the improvement of the walking trails and that the new lighting which will
be funded by a grant. He mentioned that 650 traffic signal lights are going to be upgraded to LED as
well as lighting in the City parking structure and Civic Center.
Director Mostahkami stated that his department is working on the design phase for San Gabriel
River and Wilderness Park and that they were lucky enough to receive a $1.67 million grant for this
project. He stated his department will bring forth a plan for the city council to approve and that he
anticipates that the project will be finished next year.
Director Mostahkami stated that the Public Works Department expects to expend $43 million on
project improvements including street repair work, traffic safety and public facilities. With this he
concluded his presentation and asked whether City Council had any questions.
Council Member Saab praised the Public Works Department for their incredible work they
perform for the City.
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting - June 20, 2017
Mayor Vasquez asked what the additional mileage of road improvement will be based on the
increase in funding the City has received for such improvements. Director Mostahkami stated that this
year the City is improving 3.5 miles of roads and next year the City is improving 4.4 miles because
Measure S funding will not be fully collected until September or November of next year. He stated the
City will see significant improvements in 2019. Mayor Vasquez asked what the mileage of road
improvements has been in previous years. Director Mostahkami stated that in previous years it has
been lower. City Manager Livas stated that the mileage of road improvements will double next year and
triple in the next two years.
Ben Dickow, Executive Director, Columbia Memorial Space Center thanked the City Council for
allowing the Columbia Memorial Space Center to continue to operate another year. He commented on
how busy the Space Center has with the increase in visitor engagement and stated the Center has had
over 65,000 visitors as of the end of May. He attributed the increase in visitors to the center's programs,
workshops and outreach efforts; including the forging of new partnerships and strategic collaborations.
He mentioned the Center has been recognized as the lead stem organization in the region and has led
several stem initiatives. The Center's City of STEM event has been recognized as being the science
festival for the Los Angeles area. He commented on a grant received for this upcoming fiscal year. He
announced the Center's Foundation has two new Board Members and fundraising through the efforts of
the Foundation has increased by 125%. He mentioned last year the Center acquired $45,000 through
fundraising and this year they have acquired over $100,000.
Director Dickow proceeded to talk about the Center's goals for the next fiscal year. He stated
they aim to complete the transformation of the Board by adding new members, increasing awareness of
the Center, and hosting the Center's 10th Year Anniversary. He also mentioned that for next year they
wish to increase outreach and revamp the first floor of the facility. He concluded his presentation and
asked if the City Council had any questions.
Council Member Saab stated the Center's goals are aligned with their overall mission and he
congratulated them on what the Space Center has accomplished.
Council Member Pacheco asked whether other cities and schools are visiting the Space Center
for field trips. Director Dickow stated that other cities and schools are visiting the Center, and
commented September is their month with lowest attendance of school field trips but otherwise they are
usually full.
City Manager Livas thanked Maria Rivas and Shannon DeLong for working on the budget
documents. He also thanked all of the Departments for their hard work.
Council Member Saab thanked City Manager Livas, Assistant City Manager Oskoui, Director
Gandhy, Maria Rivas, and the Department Heads for working on the budget. He stated when things are
going good it is easy to stay complacent but the City will continue to strive to become even better.
Mayor Vasquez thanked all Department Heads for their hard work throughout the year. He
stated remembering when he first joined the City Council how they had to make tough decisions when
the budget numbers were not there. He praised Director Gandhy for his phenomenal work. He
commented on the importance of being cognizant of pending recessions. Lastly, he thanked the
audience for attending the meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Ashton praised the City for accomplishing a balanced budget five years in a
row
City Council Minutes
Special Meeting — June 20, 2017
Mayor Vasquez adjourned the Special City Council Meeting at 6:55 p.m.
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