Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 11-13-18 Regular MeetingMINUTES OF COUNCILCITY OF OF DOWNE NOVEMBERREGULAR MEETING The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting on November 13, 2018, at 6:37 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Ashton presiding. PRESENT: Council Members: Sean Ashton Mayor Rick Rodriguez Mayor Pro Tem Blanca Pacheco Council Member Alex Saab Council Member Fernando Vasquez 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 Carl Charles, Chief of Police Dean R. Milligan, Chief of Police Elect Mark Gillaspie, Fire Chief Delfino Consunji, Public Works Director Pamela Passow, Parks & Recreation Director Anil Gandhy, Finance Director Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk Michael Harary, Human Resource Director The Invocation was delivered by Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Alexis Givens. COUNCIL•UNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR CONFERENCE/MEETINGREPORTS Council Saab welcomed the audience to the meeting. He congratulated Police Chief Dean Milligan on his appointment; and, thanked Police Chief Charles for his years of service in Downey. He acknowledged Council Member Elect Claudia Frometa, Commissioner Nolveris Frometa, Michael Calvert, Jeannie Wood, Ivan Sulic, and Courage Forward members in the audience. He reported attending the Stay Gallery's Anne Frank exhibit. He announced upcoming events: 5K for 5 King Benefit Run in honor of Ricky Galvez; Downey Christmas Parade; and, Downey Tree Lighting Ceremony. He requested staff promote the Stay Gallery events on the Discover Downey App; and, resolve the GPS location identification component on the Discover Downey App that is not working properly. He requested staff address the delay of the left turn traffic light signal southbound on Lakewood Blvd. onto Apollo Way. He asked for an update on his request to add exit signs identifying the Columbia Memorial Space Center on the 105 and 605 freeways. Council Member Pacheco welcomed the audience to the meeting. She congratulated the newly appointed Police Chief Dean Milligan. She acknowledged Kelly Roberts and Jennifer DeKay in the audience. She reported attending the Dia de los Muertos event, Pumpkin Patch at Apollo Park, Downey's Veterans Day Ceremony, and the State of the College event at Cerritos College. She announced Cerritos College offers a program called Cerritos Complete which provides one year of free tuition, priority enrollment, and one-on-one counseling to new students. She mentioned the college is building a new performing arts center. She shared that her brother recently graduated from the Fire City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 Academy. She announced City Hall would be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday. She thanked the Downey Fire and Police Departments for their assistance with the wild fires. Council Member Vasquez welcomed the audience to the meeting. He congratulated his successor Council Member Elect Claudia Frometa present at the meeting. He also congratulated Police Chief Dean Milligan on his appointment. He recognized Darrell Jackson and the 10-20 Club for their phenomenal work with the City's at risk youth. He reported attending the Stay Healthy Downey Club meeting and the Food Appaloosa event which provides Cal Fresh and EBT access to healthy food at the Farmers Markets. He reported participating on a trip to Israel with eighteen Latino Leaders from the United States through the American Israel Education Fund (AIEF) to meet with leaders in the Middle East. He commented on the regions they visited and mentioned they are extremely challenged and complicated; yet, their resilience has allowed them to stay quite advanced in technology focused on Cyber Security. Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez thanked the audience for allowing him to serve on the City Council. He reported attending Lewis Elementary School's presentation on how to be resilient to bullying; Downey Clergy Council meeting; Calvary Chapel Downey's Veterans Day event; and Downey's Veterans Day Celebration where twenty-one future soldiers were sworn in. He chaired a workshop for the Department of Children and Family Services focused on ensuring that a hundred foster children receive a Thanksgiving dinner. He reported Courage Forward would provide toys for Downey's foster children. He announced upcoming events: Downey Christmas Parade and Downey Theatre's Christmas Messiah. Mayor Ashton welcomed everyone to the City Council meeting. He reported attending the Shabbat Prayer service at the Temple Ner Tamid after the Pittsburg shooting. He shared the importance of working toward making the world a better place. He thanked the Fire and Police Departments for their hard work in assisting with the evacuations during the fires throughout the State. He congratulated new Police Chief Dean Milligan on his appointment and congratulated Council Member Elect Claudia Frometa. He said he is looking forward to working with her during the next four years. He announced upcoming events: Keep Downey Beautiful Clean Up; Columbia Memorial Space Center Apollo Lighting Ceremony; Downey Christmas Parade; Downey Tree Lighting Ceremony; Home Decorating contest; and, the Town Hall meeting at the Columbia Memorial Space Center to discuss how the voter approved propositions will affect the City of Downey residents. • 1. Mayor Ashton with assistance from Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez presented a Certificate of Presentation to Walter Sarnoi "The Schoolboy". 2. Mayor Ashton presented a Proclamation in recognition of Small Business Saturday to Michael Calvert. RECESS/RECONVENE Mayor Ashton recessed the City Council meeting at 7:15 p.m. Mayor Ashton reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:27 p.m. City Manager Livas welcomed and introduced Vaniah De Rojas as the new Assistant to the City Manager. 1. MORATORIUM ON MASSAGE THERAPY ESTABLISHMENTS: Community Development. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 2 1) Received and filed the report on actions taken to alleviate conditions that led to the adoption of an urgency ordinance; and, 2) Adopted by a 4/5th vote the following titled interim urgency ordinance: r• r •'-r • , 11 • r • • • • r,• r •"r t •,- err • u, • r r • Mayor Ashton opened the Public Hearing at 7:29 p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Vasquez, and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte reported no correspondence was received. City Planner Blumenthal provided the staff report and presentation. He provided a brief history regarding the moratorium in place; a review of the City of Downey's Zoning Code and Downey's Municipal Code §6553 which regulates massage therapy establishments; and, several new laws introduced by the State of California which directly affects how massage technicians are licensed. He clarified that the changes in the new laws allow the State's regulations to overrule the City's authority over massage technicians. He brought forward the City's increased concern regarding Human Trafficking in the massage therapy establishments. Council Member Pacheco inquired about the status of the City of Pico Rivera's Moratorium on Massage Therapy Establishments. City Planner Blumenthal replied that the City of Pico Rivera extended their moratorium. Council Member Vasquez inquired if there were additional surrounding cities being subjected to similar challenges. City Planner Blumenthal confirmed surrounding cities are currently addressing similar issues. Mayor Ashton opened this item for public comment at 7:34 p.m. Having no one come forward, Mayor Ashton closed public comment at 7:34 p.m. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Pacheco and carried unanimously to adopt Ordinance No. 18-1400, extending interim urgency ordinance No. 18-1399 for an additional 10 months and 15 days thereby continuing a Temporary Moratorium on New and Expanding Existing Massage Alan D. Halstensgaard, resident, commented regarding opposition to abortion. Ivan Sulic, Homeless and Housing Deputy for Supervisor Janice Hahn's Office, commented regarding the proposed project for the American Legion Post 723 site. He confirmed that the American Legion site in Downey will not be a homeless shelter rather it is designated to be an affordable housing project for Veterans. He provided comments regarding Path Villas on Imperial in the City of South Gate which has a hold due to litigation; and, Path Villas has returned all State and Federal funding related to that project. He announced that Supervisor Hahn has invited members of the public to visit the online site at homesforheroeshollydale.org for updated project information. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 3 Virginia Johnson, South Gate resident, offered comments in opposition to the homeless facility at the American Legion Post 723 site and questioned why funding wasn't made available to the American Legion to continue operations. Ignacio Gonzalez, resident, invited the City Council to the Southern California Resources Services for Independent Living annual luncheon at the Barbara J. Riley Center. He announced turkey dinner distribution at Walmart; and, spoke in support of the affordable housing project for Veteran's and encouraged more projects. Andria Polino, South Gate resident, offered comments in opposition of the proposed location and name for the veteran's homeless project. Carol Gipson, resident and founder of Compassionate Artist, offered comments in support of The Arts. She stated that music and art services are provided to low income senior facilities in the City of Downey and she requested the Council's support. Mayor Ashton directed Ms. Gipson to speak with Director of Parks and Recreation Passow. Maria Salazar, South Gate resident, offered comments in opposition to the veteran's homeless facility and urged the City Council to consider relocating the facility. Jane Denial, South Gate resident, offered comments in oppositions to the proposed facility site. John Lacy, resident, thanked Council Member Saab for following up on his request. He acknowledged Police Chief Carl Charles' professional manner in which he fulfilled his duties; and, how Chief Charles improved the Police Department's relationship with Downey residents. He thanked Council Member Vasquez for his efforts to improve District No. 4 and the quality of life for all residents during his tenure. He wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. Gabriella Mijares, South Gate resident, offered comments in opposition to the proposed location for the homeless facility site. She expressed her concerns about an increase in crime and homeless population in her area. No name provided, South Gate resident, commented regarding relocating the Veteran's homeless facility away from schools, parks, and residential areas. No name provided, South Gate resident, offered comments regarding public safety. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Ashton closed public comment. City Manager Livas thanked the South Gate residents for expressing their passion for their residential area and sharing their concerns. He provided the definition of an MOU and reminded the residents that the project is a not a homeless facility rather an affordable apartment complex for Veterans. He stated that the City of Downey has a similar affordable housing project in the heart of the City on 2"d Street and encouraged everyone to visit the complex. He informed the audience that the County of Los Angeles is the lead agency on the proposed project. He stated that the City of Downey does not have any intention of constructing a homeless facility and the City has a Memorandum of Understanding for affordable apartment units. He requested that everyone be patient with the City of Downey and know that the City is working to create affordable apartment units similar to the complex on 2nd Street. Council Member Vasquez thanked the South Gate residents for attending the meeting and expressing their concerns. He shared with the audience his personal experience of the positive results of affordable housing. He stated the City of Downey is committed to providing social components including the State of California's mandated requirement of being within walking distance to schools. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 4 He encouraged the public to attend the upcoming County Board of Supervisors' meeting and share their concerns. Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez abstained from Item No. 4, due to the close proximity of his property. Council Member Vasquez abstained from Item No. 10, due to the close proximity to his property. Mayor Ashton asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Consent Calendar items. Ignacio Gonzalez, resident, commented positively regarding Council Member Vasquez's years of service. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Ashton closed public comment. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez and carried unanimously to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar with Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez abstaining from Item No. 4; and, Council Member Vasquez abstaining from Item No. 10. 2. APPROVED MINUTES: Special Meeting of October 23, 2018; and, Regular Meeting of October 9, 2018: City Clerk. 3. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 328296 — 328920; Payroll Wire Nos. 30003811, and 30003813 — 30003816; and, Manual Wire Nos. 1756 — 1767; in the total amount of $5,892,285.14: Finance. •- ;• •- r • r r • r r III wyue `• r 6. AUTHORIZED THE FIRE CHIEF TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTYOF • ANGELES FOR DISBURSEMENT OF 117 STATE HOMELAND SECURITY (SHSGP) GRANTr AND, ACCEPTED AND APPROPRIATED $323,584 OF 1FUNDS: City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 5 Mel :411 m Ir • • - - • City Manager Livas, on behalf of the Theatre Subcommittee, provided a brief update regarding the principal issues related to enhancing the presenting series, marketing, and working in conjunction with local groups to utilize the theatre which staff will return with an item at a future meeting. The staff report and presentation was provided by Parks and Recreations Director Passow. She provided a brief update covering the period that VenueTech Management Group, Inc. began managing the Theatre in 2011. She provided information regarding business growth and increased revenue to date; the variety of groups utilizing the Theatre; highlighted achievements regarding branding, creation of the Theatre's website and Facebook page; implementation of the full service box office and addition of online ticket sales; a successful volunteer program; and, the theatre's plan to expand community relations and partnerships efforts. Council Member Vasquez inquired as to the comparison of costs to run the Theatre versus its revenue. Director of Parks and Recreation Passow confirmed the cost of providing services is currently balanced with the increased revenue. She added that the City is currently working with VenueTech to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) for entertainment. Council Member Vasquez inquired who would be paying for additional entertainment subcontractors. City Manager Livas stated that the City is in the process of finalizing the details which include who would be responsible for payment of the marketing portion and identifying the costs for the presenting series. Since the Request for Proposal is still in the planning stage the payment would greatly depend on the number of responses received. Mayor Ashton requested clarification on the item being proposed tonight. City Manager Livas explained that the only item before Council tonight is the management of the Theatre. He said staff would return before Council with an item for the marketing, presenting series, and community engagement components for the theatre at a future meeting. Council Member Saab confirmed that a majority of the work is the management of the Theatre and VenueTech has done a good job managing the Theatre. He agreed that there is room for improvement with regards to the presenting series, marketing, and community engagement aspects; however, the contract does allow the City to implement recommendations. He inquired as to how many days the Theatre is being utilized. Director of Parks and Recreation Passow replied that the Theatre is utilized approximately 200 days a year; and, the Theatre is closed every Monday which accounts for an additional 52 days. Mayor Ashton opened this item for public comment at 8:37 p.m. Ignacio Gonzalez, resident, commented in favor of VenueTech's management of the theatre. He stated that the Downey Theatre is the jewel of the City; and, the marketing and presenting series should reflect such. He emphasized the positive effects of utilizing multi -social media sites as part of their marketing tools. He offered suggestions on a variety of events and productions to attract the entire community to the Downey Theatre. City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 7 Lawrence Christian, former Staff Writer for Los Angeles Times, provided comments regarding the public's perception of the Downey Theatre and offered growth potential suggestions and recommendations on becoming more competitive with other theatres. Additionally, he offered his assistance to contact and invite professional theatre groups to perform at this venue. Carol Gipson, resident, offered comments in agreement with the previous speaker; requested information about the Theatre's Subcommittee meetings; and, offered to volunteer her time in assisting the Theatre expansion. Lars Clutterham, Composer, commented regarding the necessity of implementing a structured marketing plan. Having no one else come forward, Mayor Ashton closed public comment at 8:54 p.m. City Clerk Duarte received correspondence from Donald Marshal, President of the Downey Symphonic Society, in favor of the extension of the agreement with VenueTech; and, correspondence from Marisol Lopez in favor of the extension of the agreement with VenueTech. Council Member Pacheco thanked the members of public for their comments. She said that some of the current shows are exceptional; however, agrees that the marketing component is crucial to the future of the Downey Theatre; and, acknowledged the need for the Request for Proposal. Council Member Saab thanked the public for their comments. He stated that the Council has a great opportunity to define the direction they wish to see the Downey Theatre move forward in and become a community based cultural theatre for the area. He elaborated on the use of social media as a vital marketing tool. He thanked VenueTech for a great job in managing the Theatre. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Ashton and carried unanimously to approve a three year extension to the existing agreement with VenueTech Management Group, Inc. to provide management and consulting services for the Downey Civic Theatre. City Manager Livas thanked Fire Chief Gillaspie and Police Chief Charles for staying on top of the fires. He said their assistance was greatly appreciated. Mayor Ashton adjourned the regular City Council meeting at 9:04 p.m. in memory of Gwinnett County, Georgia Officer Antwan Toney, 30, killed in the line of duty; Florence County Sheriff, South Carolina, Deputy Farrah B. Turner, killed in the line of duty; Fire Chief Tom Henrich, of Earling Fire and Rescue Department, killed in the line of duty; William "Bill" Menighan, City of Downey Department of Public Works employee; City of Bellflower Council Member Ron Schnableggar; Eduardo Zarate, father of City of Downey employee, Melissa Villasenor-Galvan; Fire Capt. Mike Kreza of the Costa Mesa Fire Department; Major Brent R. Taylor, 39, from Ogden, Utah who was supporting Operation Freedom's Sentinel; California Highway Patrol Sgt. Ron Helus, killed in the line of duty; victims of the shooting at the Tree of Life Congregation in Pittsburgh, PA; victims of the mass shooting in Thousand Oaks; Victims of the Camp Fire; and, Victims of the Woolsey Fire. AA �ALICIADUA CMC City Clerk City Council Minutes Regular Meeting — November 13, 2018 JoRK DRIGUEZ r E:?