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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 01-22-19 Regular MeetingMINUTES OF • • • r• REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 22, 2019 The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting on January 22, 2019, at 6:35 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Rodriguez presiding. PRESENT: Council Members: Rick Rodriguez Blanca Pacheco Sean Ashton Claudia Frometa Alex Saab 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-ANNOUNCEMENTS;FOR FUTURE AGENDA CONFERENCE/MEETINGREPORTS 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 6. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council Member Frometa and Council Member Pacheco presented a Certificate of Recognition to Cecilia Gonez. 7. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council Member Frometa presented a Certificate of Appointment to Dimitrios "Jimmy" Spathopoulos, Planning Commission, District 4. 8. Mayor Rodriguez with assistance from Council Member Frometa and Council Member Saab presented a Certificate of Recognition to David and Lily Gonzalez. PUBLIC HEARING: None. Scott Collins, Field Representative for Senator Archuleta, provided the Council with an update regarding a recent meeting with Captain Leslie Murray regarding the Ricky Galvez case; and, a discussion with Senator Archuleta regarding the Ricky Galvez case and the flaws in the judicial system, and, stated they will make every effort possible to make those flaws known. Downey Police Officer Ralph Diaz, President of the Downey Police Officer's Association, commented regarding the life and murder of Officer Ricky Galvez and the effects Senate Bill 1437 has had on the case including the early release of the juvenile suspect involved. Captain Mark McDaniels, President of the Downey Police Management Association, provided comments in appreciation of the Council's support for public safety and being the voice for those that have been victimized. He commented regarding Officer Ricky Galvez trial and Senate Bill 1437 which was not brought before the voters of California rather approved by legislators with a bipartisan vote and the effects it has had on Officer Galvez' murder case. Mario Guerra, resident, former Mayor of Downey, and Chaplain for the Downey Police Department, commented regarding the the murder of Ricky Galvez; the Galvez trial; and, how another injustice occurred to the Galvez family as a result of Senate Bill 1437. He thanked Mayor Rodriguez and Council Member Saab for attending the trial. He asked that the City Council take action and let our Legislators in Sacramento know how negatively Senate Bill 1437 has impacted our City and urge them to reverse Senate Bill 1437. Armando Herman, 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 to ensure justice is restored 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 on a number of items AB 109, AB 117, AB 1437, Prop 47 and 57. The aforementioned were all propositions designed to limit the authority of the police departments and allow an early release of criminals. The City is working with the League of California Cities who 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; City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 3 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 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. 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. .. •,i it r • •' i i •• r • r r c INDEPENDENCE PARK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT CONSTRUCTION OF COURTS: PROJECTAPPROVED THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $518,195.24; AND, AUTHORIZED THE FILING OF THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT i Administration. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 4 - •: i -• i i • • • •'' i is •' i : •' r •' - � '• 6. AWARDED • •N CONTRACT IN THE AMOUNTOF 1fif TO PMK PROFESSIONAL, INC. FOR• •r• PHASE 2; AND, AUTHORIZED THE PUBLIC WORKSDIRECTOR TO EXECUTE ANY CHANGE Works.ORDERS OR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK DEEMED NECESSARY OR DESIRABLE UP TO THE APPROVED PROJECT BUDGET (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 19-15): Public 7. APPROVED i • AND, AUTHORIZED SOLICITATION OF BIDS •R THE EXPANSION AND MODERNIZATION OF • r PROJECT,•r • OF • 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 - Administration. 'i i i' i • i • i i r ADOPTED • • • 19-7863, A RESOLUTIONOF • OF OF DOWNEY APPROVINGi OF DANIEL CUNNINGHAM TO THE RECREATIONi COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSIONFOR • Council- • • - , i • ` I ' • • • • • 0 • • 0 , i•. f •- 1 •. i 1 • i' • •• •` ,: • •1 0 `• • - i • ARAM -1 • • "i i - • r r rr • • • 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. 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 the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:40 p.m. in memory of the crews of Apollo 1, Space Shuttle Columbia, and Space Shuttle Challenger; Officer Chateri Payne, 22, of the Louisiana State Police Department, and Officer Natalie Corona, 22, of the Davis Police Department, both killed in the line of duty; and, Lessie Brown, 114, oldest person in the United States. A A ALICIA DUART ,CMC lDRIGUEZ RO City Clerk yor City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — January 22, 2019 6