HomeMy WebLinkAbout02b. Minutes - 01-22-19MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 22, 2019
The City Council of the City of Downey
2019, at 6:35 p.m., in the Council Chamber
Downey, California, Mayor Rodriguez presiding.
Git;4 11
Council Members:
Rick Rodriguez
Blanca Pacheco
Sean Ashton
Claudia Frometa
Alex Saab
held a Regular City Council Meeting on January 22,
of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue,
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tem
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager
Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney
John Oskoui, Assistant City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant to the City Manager
Dean Milligan, Chief of Police
Mark Gillaspie, Fire Chief
Delfino Consunji, Public Works Director
Pam Passow, Parks and Recreation Director
Michael Harary, Human Resources Director
Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Brooklyn Kravig. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ayden
Arencibia.
COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Saab welcomed the audience to the meeting. He recognized former Mayor
David Gafin; Michael Calvert; Michael Chirco; and, Planning Commissioner Nolveris Frometa in the
audience. He reported attending the City Council Goals and Priorities Workshop and thanked staff for a
great job. He mentioned the Council has renewed their guidelines and every agenda item that comes
before the Council for consideration must fall within the Council's goals which consist of: fiscal
responsibility; economic vibrancy; efficiency and adaptability; quality of life; and, public engagement. He
requested staff pursue underground utilities in all major corridors in the future. He invited members of
the public to the unveiling of the Downey Cemetery's new gates and lights, donated by Supervisor
Hahn. He announced upcoming events: Bike Share Program unveiling at Discovery Park; reception and
photo opportunity to launch the Rio Hondo Event Center renovation; and, a community information
session regarding the Library renovation on February 9 at the Cormack Room. He invited the public to
participate in the Homeless Count event at First Baptist Church on January 23. He commented
regarding the minimal sentencing of one of the men convicted in the murder of Officer Ricky Galvez. He
reminded the residents their votes and voices count and encouraged them to do their part by sending
written communications to their legislators in Sacramento in opposition of Senate Bill 1437. He
requested staff bring an agenda item to the Council to address the issue of abandoned shopping carts
on City streets; and, asked staff to review the aesthetics of the recently installed cell tower in the area
of Florence Ave. and Sideview St. He acknowledged members of Soroptimist International of
Downey and Courage Forward in the audience.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She reported attending the
First Annual Human Trafficking Fair held to raise the level of awareness to this growing issue. She
reported attending the League of California Cities New Mayors and Council Members Academy with
City Manager Livas where they met with Senator Archuleta to discuss legislation that affects the City of
Downey. She mentioned attending the Ethics and Compliance Training; and, Latino Leadership and
Policy Foundation Annual Luncheon at the Academy. She acknowledged her husband Nolveris
Frometa in the audience.
Council Member Ashton welcomed the audience to the meeting. He mentioned his participation
in the L.A. Unified School District Teacher Strike and said a settlement had been reached to end the
strike. He reported attending the League of California Cities Transportation Policy Committee meeting
and receiving an update on the Governor's budget regarding transportation funds. He reported
attending the Keep Downey Beautiful Clean Up and invited members of the public to the next clean up
event. He announced upcoming events: Homeless Count; and, unveiling of the Downey Cemetery
new gates and lights. He thanked Supervisor Hahn for her donation. He requested staff return with an
agenda item to provide a grace period to Federal employees to pay their water bills.
Mayor Pro Tem Pacheco welcomed the audience to the meeting. She reported attending the
First Annual Human Trafficking Fair hosted by Soroptimist International of Downey. She mentioned she
will be working with Council Member Frometa to bring awareness of Human Trafficking issues in our
country. As Vice Chair of the League of California Cities Housing Committee she reported on Senate
Bill 50 which will impose on cities high density housing in areas considered high rich job
neighborhoods; surrounding light rail stations; and, high frequency bus stops. In addition to the high
density housing, Senate Bill 50 will eliminate parking requirements. She reported the committee will
oppose Senate Bill 50 proposed by Senator Weiner unless it is amended to protect cities from imposing
additional parking congestion and allow cities to retain local control. She announced upcoming events:
Tenant and Landlord Rights meeting; Autozone Used Oil and Filter Collection; Colombia Memorial
Space Center Astronaut Commemoration; and, job fair at the Barbara J. Riley Senior Center. She
recognized resident Christopher in the audience and congratulated him on the occasion of his birthday.
Mayor Rodriguez thanked the audience for allowing him to serve on the Council. He reported
attending the SEAACA Pet Care event; California Contract Cities meeting at the new Banc of California
Stadium; first Business Watch meeting; Friends of the Library meeting; the Los Angeles County
Oversight Committee meeting; preparation meeting for the upcoming Military Service Day event; and,
meeting with PIH to discuss their involvement with the Clergy Council. He was also a guest speaker at
Warren High School about life after graduation. He also met with the Downey Youth Commission about
them getting more involved in the community. He attended a luncheon with Latino Elected Officials;
and, participated in providing food to the Coast Guard in Seal Beach in collaboration with Courage
Forward, Save the Brave, and Bastard's. He acknowledged former Mayor Mario Guerra, Scott Collins;
Chad Overly; and, Alex and Maria, member of Downey First Christian Church in the audience.
1. Mayor Rodriguez presented the Mayor's Servant Heart Award to Symond Boshcehtto.
2. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Ben Dickow presented the Downey's Finest Award to Mayra
Garcia.
3. Mayor Rodriguez presented the Pets 4 Troops recognition to Alec Arencibia.
4. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Carol Rowland presented Certificates of Congratulations to
the 2019 Used Oil Recycle Artwork Winners.
5. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council Member Frometa presented a Certificate of
Recognition to Soroptimist International of Downey.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 2
G. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council K8ennbgr Fnorneta and Council Member Pacheco
presented a Certificate of Recognition to Cecilia Gofiez.
7. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council Member Fmmeta presented e Certificate of
Appointment to Dimitrios "Jimmy" Spathopoulos, Planning Commission, District 4.
8. Mayor Rodriguez with aaaia1onme from Council Member Fnonneio and Council Member Goob
presented a Certificate of Recognition to David and Lily Gonzalez.
PUBLIC HEARING: None.
NON -AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
Scott Collins, Field Representative for Senator Archuleta, provided the Council with 8nupdate
regarding G nBCgnt meeting with Captain LHS|i8 Murray regarding the FUukv G8lv8z C@S8; and, @
discussion with Senator Archuleta regarding the Ricky Ga|vez case and the Ouvvo in the judicial avotenn.
and, stated they will make every effort possible tOmake those flaws known.
Downey Police Officer Ralph []ioz. President of the Downey Police Officer's Aeoocatk)n,
commented regarding the life and murder of Officer Ricky Ga|vez and the effects Senate Bill 1437 has
had 0nthe case including the early release Ofthe juvenile suspect involved.
Captain Mark MoDanieAe. President of the Downey Police Management /\eeooiabon. provided
C0nnrn8ntG in 8ppr8CGU0n of the Council's support for public safety and being the voice for those that
have been victimized. He commented regarding Officer Ricky G8|vez th8| and Senate Bill 1437 which
was not brought before the VOtH[S of California rather approved by |8QiS|8iO[S with 8 bipartisan VOt8 and
the effects ithas had onOfficer Ga|vez'murder case.
M8hD Guerra, [0Sid8Ot. fO[Dl8[ Mayor Of Downey, and Chaplain for the Downey PO|iC8
Department, CO008Ohed regarding the the murder of Ricky G@|V8z; the G8|Vezth8|; and, how another
injustice occurred to the Ga|vezfamily aG a result of Senate Bill 1437. He thanked W18yVr Rodriguez
and Council Member Saab for attending the trial. H8asked that the City Council take action and let our
Legislators in Sacramento know how negatively Senate f]i|| 1437 has impacted our City and urge them
tVreverse Senate Bill 1437.
Armando Hemmon, resident, commented regarding political leaders; Senate Bill 1437; public
engagement; illegal immigration; and, people with disabilities.
Having no one else come forward, Mayor Rodriguez closed public comment.
RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Rodriguez recessed the City Council meeting at 8:13 p.m. Mayor Rodriguez reconvened
the City Council meeting at 8:23 p.m. with all Council Members present.
Mayor Rodriguez commented regarding the City's obligation toensure justice iarestored for the
residents and the Downey Police Department. He asked City Manager Livas to update the audience.
City Manager Livas commented regarding the number of things cities can do to help effectuate
change. He provided a status update regarding the items that the City has already done such as sent
position letters and discussion points 0n8number Ofitems /\B109.AB117./\B1437.Prop 47and 57.
The 8fOPeDleDtiOD8d were all pn3pOGitiOOS designed to limit the 8UthOhtv of the police departments and
G||OVV an S8[|y release Of criminals. The City is VVO[kiOg with the Le3QU8 Of California Cities who
City Council Minutes
represents over 400 communities to send letters and lobby against all of these propositions. The City
has also engaged with its State Lobbyist who is working simultaneously to continue to place pressure;
and, working with a coalition of cities called Taking Back Our Communities dedicated to educating the
public to address the unintended consequences of AB 109, AB 117, and AB 1437; and, Prop 47 and
57. Staff is preparing a Resolution in support of a Police Chief's and gross response justice reform
measure which is eligible for the November, 2020 State ballot. The measure will address issues in SB
1437 by restricting the parole of non-violent offenders and authorizes felony sentences for certain
offenses currently treated only as misdemeanors similar to Reduce Crime and Keep California Cities
Safe Act of 2018 which the City of Downey supported but failed.
•► ► ►I':
Council Member Frometa abstained from Item No. 1, Special Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2017.
Mayor Pro Tem Pacheco abstained from Item No. 5 due to the close proximity to her residence.
Mayor Rodriguez abstained from Item No. 6 due to the close proximity to his residence.
Mayor Rodriguez asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Consent
Calendar items.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding the Citizen Oversight Committee; traffic
congestion; capital improvement projects; and, people with disabilities.
Faraz, resident, requested clarification regarding Item No. 5, he asked if the work has been
completed.
Having no one else come forward Mayor Rodriguez closed public comment.
City Manager Livas addressed the Mr. Faraz' questions regarding Item No. 5, and confirmed the
work has been completed.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Frometa and carried
unanimously to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar with Council Member Frometa
abstaining from Item 1, Special Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2017; Mayor Pro Tem Pacheco abstaining
from Item No. 5, due to the close proximity to her residence; and, Mayor Rodriguez abstaining from
Item No. 6, due to the close proximity to his residence.
1. APPROVED MINUTES: Special Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2017; Regular Meeting Minutes of
January 8, 2019: City Clerk.
2. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 330230 — 330562; Payroll Wire Nos. are 30003831, 30003835
and 30003837 — 30003839; and, Manual Wire Nos. 1783 — 1792, in the total amount of
$3,262,018.76: Finance.
3. APPROVED AMENDMENTS TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH STANTEC
CONSULTING SERVICES, INC. AND GEO-ADVANTEC, INC. FOR THE TELEGRAPH RD.
TRAFFIC THROUGHPUT & SAFETY ENHANCEMENTS PROJECT, PHASE 2; AND,
AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL FUTURE AMENDMENTS
DEEMED NECESSARY (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 16-05): Public Works.
4. INDEPENDENCE PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT — CONSTRUCTION OF FUTSAL COURTS:
APPROVED THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $518,195.24; AND,
AUTHORIZED THE FILING OF THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT NO. 17-15): Administration.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 4
5. ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION AND REPAIRS (COUNCIL
DISTRICT NOS. 1 & 3) AND AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT (CITYWIDE): APPROVED THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION AMOUNT OF $491,011;
AND, AUTHORIZED THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE THE NOTICE
OF COMPLETION (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 18-01): Public Works.
6. AWARDED A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT IN THE AMOUNT OF $82,000 TO PMK
PROFESSIONAL, INC. FOR THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS PROJECT,
PHASE 2; AND, AUTHORIZED THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ANY CHANGE
ORDERS OR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK DEEMED NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE UP TO
THE APPROVED PROJECT BUDGET (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 19-15): Public
Works.
7. APPROVED THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS; AND, AUTHORIZED SOLICITATION OF
BIDS FOR THE EXPANSION AND MODERNIZATION OF FIRE STATIONS NOS. 1 AND 3
PROJECT, MODERNIZATION OF THE CITY LIBRARY PROJECT, AND RECONSTRUCTION OF
APOLLO PARK, DENNIS THE MENACE PARK AND RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK PROJECT
(CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOS. 19-37-01; 19-37-03; 19-20; 19-28; 19-29; AND, 19-
34): Administration.
8. ACCEPTED THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TOBACCO LAW ENFORCEMENT
GRANT; APPROVED THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU); AND, DIRECTED
THE CITY MANAGER AND CHIEF OF POLICE TO EXECUTE THE MOU: Police.
9. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 19-7863, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF DANIEL CUNNINGHAM TO THE
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 4:
Council Member Frometa.
10. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 19-7864, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF ADAM CHRISTIN TO THE PUBLIC
WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 4: Council Member Frometa.
11. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 19-7865, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF DAN FOX TO THE PUBLIC WORKS
COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 4: Council Member Frometa.
12. ADOPTED THE 2019 LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM AND AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR (OR MAYOR
PRO TEM IN THE MAYOR'S ABSENCE) TO SIGN POLICY AND POSITION LETTERS WITHIN
THE GUIDELINES OF THE PLATFORM: Administration.
13. RECEIVED AND FILED THE MEASURE S SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, AS SUBMITTED BY THE
MEASURE S INDEPENDENT CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE: Administration.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS:
14. REVIEWED AND APPROVED ADDITIONAL CITY COUNCIL INTER -GOVERNMENT
COMMITTEES AND STANDING COMMITTEES ASSIGNMENTS FOR 2019: Mayor Rodriguez.
City Clerk Duarte announced in regards to the Successor Agency to the Dissolved Downey
Redevelopment Agency Item No. 1 on the list, the City Attorney abides this agency is composed of the
entire City Council and no individual appointments are necessary. In regards to Item No. 4 on the list,
Street Sweeping and Catch Basin Cleaning Subcommittee, it is at the discretion of the Council whether
to continue with the subcommittee; however, the contract has been approved.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 5
Council Member Saab requested that both Item Nos. 1 and 4 be removed from the list.
Mayor Rodriguez asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on this item.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding Inter -Government Committees and an
Oversight Committee; requested an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Committee.
Having no one else come forward, Mayor Rodriguez closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Ashton, and carried
unanimously to approve additional City Council Inter -Government Committees and Standing Committee
Assignments for 2019 with the removal of Item No. 1, Successor Agency to the Dissolved Downey
Redevelopment Agency; and, Item No. 4, Street Sweeping and Catch Basin Cleaning Subcommittee
from the list.
STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Livas announced that the Police Department Officers Association's concerns were
heard and the City will work to effectually ensure the change in legislation. He announced the City has
an ADA Compliance Plan, including a full time Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Rodriguez adjourned
memory of the crews of Apollo 1, Space Shuttle
Chateri Payne, 22, of the Louisiana State Police
Davis Police Department, both killed in the line of
United States.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC
City Clerk
the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:40 p.m. in
Columbia, and Space Shuttle Challenger; Officer
Department, and Officer Natalie Corona, 22, of the
duty; and, Lessie Brown, 114, oldest person in the
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 6
RICK RODRIGUEZ
Mayor