HomeMy WebLinkAbout01b. Minutes - 06-23-20 - Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 23, 2020
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting on June 23, 2020,
at 6:31 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey,
California, with Mayor Pacheco presiding.
Council Members:
Blanca Pacheco
Claudia M. Frometa
Sean Ashton
Rick Rodriguez
Alex Saab
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tern
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
(teleconference)
ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager
John Oskoui, Assistant City Manager
Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant to the City Manager
Dean Milligan, Chief of Police
Mark Gillaspie, Fire Chief
Aldo E. Schindler, Community Development Director
Anil Gandhy, Finance Director
Delfino Consunji, Public Works Director
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Alicia Duarte, CIVIC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Council Member Rodriguez. The Pledge of Allegiance was led
by Council Member Saab.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Saab welcomed the audience to the meeting. He reported attending the
reopening of Golden Park and thanked City Manager Livas, Assistant City Manager Oskoui and staff
involved in the completion of the project. He requested staff research and return to Council with
recommendations to grant a six month extension for permits and entitlements for residential and
commercial projects affected by COVID-19. He requested staff address debris and loud noise at
Raising Cane's during late night hours. He also requested staff enforce lawn parking violations in
residential areas.
Mayor Pro Tern Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She reported participating in
the Rotary Club meeting where they discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and measures the City has
taken to reopen City Hall to the public. She asked the audience to continue to be supportive of local
businesses while following safe health practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19. She reported the
number of cases continue to rise and indicated there are 1,308 cases in Downey. She emphasized the
importance of not hosting large family gathering over the 4t" of July holiday. She requested additional
patrols at commercial parking lots to ensure public safety and discourage gatherings of large groups
and car racing. She requested staff address the use of illegal fireworks citywide. She also requested
staff enforce the City's noise ordinance for excessively loud music.
Council Member Rodriguez welcomed the audience to the meeting. He thanked the Police
Department on behalf of Leslie Cimarrona, resident, for their hard work with the homeless population.
He requested staff address the use of hard balls in baseball fields at City Parks to reduce injury to small
children playing in nearby areas.
Mayor Pacheco welcomed the audience to the meeting. She acknowledged Michael Calvert in
the audience. She reported the reopening of nail salons and gyms, and reminded the audience to
continue to wear facial coverings while conducting business to prevent the spread of COVID-19. She
reported the number cases are continuing to increase due to additional testing being available and
people out enjoying the reopening of businesses. She reported attending the reopening of Golden Park
and mentioned being selected to serve as Director at Large for the League of California Cities Los
Angeles Division. She requested staff research reporting the use of illegal fireworks anonymously on
the Downey App.
City Manager Livas stated residents are able to call the Police Department to anonymously
report the use of illegal fireworks. He stated the Los Angeles Times published an article regarding the
spike in the nightly explosions of illegal fireworks arriving earlier and more intensely than usual. He
stated it is due to people working from home and having time to drive across Stateline to purchase the
illegal fireworks. He mentioned the City has increased fines and implemented additional measures to
identify individuals using illegal fireworks when both legal and illegal fireworks are being ignited at the
same time.
PRESENTATIONS: None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. ADOPTED PROPOSED BUDGET FOR 2020-21 FISCAL YEAR: Finance.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7945, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021 BUDGET AND THE ANNUAL
APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing at 6:54 p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the
Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa,
and so ordered by Mayor Pacheco, to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte noted there was no
correspondence received.
City Manager Livas provided a brief review regarding the implementation process of the City's
Budget in accordance with Council's goals and priorities.
Director Gandhy presented the staff report for this item. He presented Fiscal Year 2020-2021
Executive Summary ending estimated reserve of $43,049,091 (pre COVID-19) and ending estimated
reserve of $30,296,977 (post COVID-19) which reflects the impact on Fiscal Years 2019-2020 and
2020-2021. He provided the budget summary of all funds totaling $241,975,786, which include the cost
of personnel operations, materials, supplies, capital equipment, capital improvements projects, and
transfers to other funds. The proposed General Fund portion of the budget is $98,238,268 in operating
expenditures and is based upon estimated General Fund Revenues of $106,858,667. This is the eighth
structurally balanced proposed budget continuing to demonstrate the City's strategic financial
management, evidenced by the organization's ability to balance the budget while navigating the
financial impacts of the rapid onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Director Gandhy provided a breakdown of the General Fund expenditures as follows: Fire and
Police 65%, Public Works 8%, Parks and Recreation 10%, Community Development 5%, zero transfers
out and General Government 12%. He mentioned the increase in expenditures is partially due to the
continued rise for CaIPERS pension costs.
City Manager Livas clarified the reduction of labor costs was not attrition rather a planned
systematic approach to keep the labor costs in balance. Staff learned from the recession to manage its
labor costs to not revert to pre -recession costs. The City is expected to provide a level of service and
continues to strive to uphold its resident's expectations in an efficient and sustainable manner. He
provided a comparison as to how the City monitors its full time staffing levels and noted the City of
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 2
Downey was nine out of 10 cities of similar population, size and services. The City of Santa Monica has
23.43 staff members per every 1,000 residents whereas the City of Downey only has 3.81 staff
members per every 1,000 residents. He stated staff is always looking for methods to save the City
money which is a testament to all the Department Heads and the City Council mandating finances are
kept in order.
Council Member Rodriguez inquired about the City's succession plan. City Manager Livas
responded staff is continually building the succession plan and currently preparing for the upcoming
years when it is estimated 75% of the Executive Management team will retire. He mentioned how
fortunate he was to be part of the previous succession plan as he was mentored and promoted; similar
to Director Schindler's mentorship position. He stated the City has talented staff, Recreation Manager
Chacon being another one of the talented staff members.
Council Member Rodriguez inquired about the process to make the temporary position
permanent. City Manager Livas stated if it were the City Council's pleasure to make the position
permanent the City Council would provide direction to change the temporary position to permanent.
Council Member Saab inquired if there were any other positions changing from temporary to
permanent or any additional positions included in the budget other than the Police Officers through
Measure S funds. Director Gandhy confirmed no other positions were added to the proposed budget,
one position in the Finance Department was reclassified without an increase to the salary.
City Manager Livas confirmed the six vacant positions have been frozen, staff has assisted with
the additional duties from the vacancies, and no additional positions have been added to the proposed
budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing for public comment at 7:16 p.m. Mayor Pacheco
asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who would like to comment on
the Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any written comments
received on the Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone
present who would like to comment on Public Hearing item.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding COVID-19's impact on the budget,
infrastructure, parks and public officials.
Alex Contreras, resident, commented regarding increasing the budget for social services and
mental health care in public schools to help families that are in need, and reduce the Police
Department's budget to subsidize the additional social services.
Rodolfo Cortes Barragan, non-resident, commented regarding advocating for additional housing
appropriations to increase the Community Development Block Grant funds, rental assistance relief and
anti -poverty programs.
Ralph Dulox, non-resident, commented regarding exclusive franchises, the trash company, the
proposed budget, and allowing a poker club business in the City for additional revenue.
Nelson, non-resident, commented regarding Project Room Key and the transfer of funds from
the Police Department's budget to public services in order assist the homeless population with housing
during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Joey Martinez, resident, commented regarding increase cases of COVID-19, frivolous lawsuits,
City staffing, and Measure S Projects.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 3
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Rodriguez, and so
ordered by Mayor Pacheco to close the public hearing at 7:32 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa and carried
unanimously to adopt Resolution No. 20-7945, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Downey
adopting the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Budget and the Annual Appropriations Limit.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7946, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY ADJUSTING THE CITY'S UNIFORM SCHEDULE OF FEES
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing at 7:33 p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the
Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa,
and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte reported no correspondence was
received.
Assistant to City Manager De Rojas presented the staff report. She provided a brief history
regarding the City Council's approval in 2019 of the automated annual adjustment to the City User Fee
Schedule based on the Consumer Price Index for the Los Angeles -Orange -Riverside Metropolitan
Statistical area. She stated the fees were adjusted only to fees that had not currently achieved full cost
recovery. She stated fee increases were rounded up or down depending if they were greater or less
than 50 cents, respectively. There are a few exceptions, the first in the Community Development
Department (Building & Safety) fees were increased by the actual dollar amount; and, the second was
in the Parks and Recreation Department (Rio Hondo Golf Course). She stated one new fee was added
to the Schedule under the Public Works Department (Engineering), "Wireless Facility Submittal" fee.
The fee was added to enforce aesthetic standards pertaining to wireless facilities located within the City
public right-of-way.
Mayor Pacheco opened this item for public comment at 7:36 p.m. Mayor Pacheco asked City
Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who would like to comment received on the
Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any written comments
received on the Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone
present who would like to comment on Public Hearing item.
Armando Herman, resident commented in opposition of the increase to the Uniform Schedule of
Fees based upon the Consumer Price Index.
Rodolfo Cortes Barragan, non-resident, commented in opposition to all increases in the Uniform
Schedule of Fees. He commented in support of advocating for additional appropriations from the State
to offset the increases.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, and so ordered
by Mayor Pacheco to close the public hearing at 7:40 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa and carried
unanimously to adopt Resolution No. 20-7946, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Downey
adjusting the City's Uniform Schedule of Fees.
City Manager Livas reported the City has mental health providers that work with the Police
Department, City Manager's Office and other departments to ensure that the homeless population is
served. He mentioned the Measure S Projects have been completed: Fire Stations No. 1 and 3;
Golden, Apollo, Independent Parks; Civic Center; and, the Police Department. Furman Park is
scheduled to open early July, and the Library and Wilderness Park are currently under construction.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 4
The Measure S Projects have been constructed on budget and without any additional personnel. He
stated the City consistently lobbies Congress for additional Community Development Block Grant
funding yearly.
3. ADOPTED MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND
REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE PARAMOUNT BLVD. AT IMPERIAL HWY. INTERSECTION
IMPROVEMENTS (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 19-06): Public Works.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7947, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY ADOPTING THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE PARAMOUNT
BOULEVARD AT IMPERIAL HIGHWAY INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing at 7:41 p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the
Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa,
and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte reported no correspondence was
received.
Director Consunji presented the staff report. He provided a brief history regarding the initial
study and Mitigated Negative Declaration as having no impact or less than significant impact on
aesthetics, air quality, biological resource, cultural resources, soils, GHG Emissions, hazmat, water
quality, noise and transportation. He summarized the Paramount Blvd. at Imperial Hwy. Intersection
proposed improvements to reconstruct the intersection and provide dual left turn lanes in the
southbound and westbound directions, Americans with Disabilities Act improvements, and new striping
and signage. He stated the total project costs would be $3,185,000 and is 100% funded through the 1-
710 E I R Early Action Program Grant.
Council Member Saab inquired if the striping and modifications could be more creative. Director
Consunji stated the striping and modifications are done pursuant to the Caltrans Standard Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices with decorative concrete crosswalks. He stated the plans are currently
in the design stage and a decorative design would be incorporated.
Mayor Pacheco opened this item for public comment at 7:53 p.m. Mayor Pacheco asked City
Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who would like to comment on the Public
Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any written comments received on
the Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who
would like to comment on Public Hearing item.
Alex Contreras, resident, commented regarding installing permanent protective bicycle lanes.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding Americans with Disability Act project
improvements, the cost of the project, and political leaders.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, and so ordered
by Mayor Pacheco to close the Public Hearing at 7:59 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Ashton and carried
unanimously to adopt Resolution No. 20-7947, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Downey
adopting the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for the
Paramount Boulevard at Imperial Highway Intersection Improvement Project in accordance with the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 5
4. ADOPTED RESOLUTION CONFIRMING LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT (AD) 121 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021: Public Works.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7948, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY CONFIRMING LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT 121 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing at 8:00 p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the
Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa,
and so ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte reported no correspondence was
received.
Director Consunji presented the staff report. He provided a brief summary of the history of the
Lighting and Landscaping Assessment District 121 established pursuant to the provisions of the
Lighting and Landscaping Act of 1972 and Part 2 of the Division 15 of the California Streets and
Highways Code. He provided a brief summary of the zones and energy charges; and, reported on the
expenditure history and the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2020-21.
Mayor Pacheco opened this item for public comment at 8:04 p.m. Mayor Pacheco asked City
Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who would like to comment on the Public
Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any written comments received on
the Public Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who
would like to comment on Public Hearing item.
Having none, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, and so ordered
by Mayor Pacheco to close the public hearing at 8:05 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Council Member Rodriguez and carried
unanimously to adopt Resolution No. 20-7948, a Resolution of the City Council of the City of Downey
confirming Lighting and Landscaping Assessment District 121 for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
5. REQUEST FOR A ZONE CHANGE TO REZONE A PORTION OF A PROPERTY LOCATED AT
9432 TELEGRAPH ROAD FROM P-B (PARKING BUFFER) TO C-2 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL):
Community Development.
INTRODUCE ORDINANCE 20- . AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING A ZONE CHANGE DESIGNATION (PLN-19-00162) FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 9432 TELEGRAPH ROAD, THEREBY CONVERTING THE
NORTH 42 FEET OF THE PROPERTY FROM P-B (PARKING BUFFER) TO C-2 (GENERAL
COMMERCIAL)
Mayor Pacheco announced the scheduled Public Hearing would not be considered tonight and
is being continued to the next regularly scheduled City Council Meeting of July 14, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, seconded by Council Member Rodriguez and carried
unanimously to continue Public Hearing to request a Zone Change to rezone a portion of a property
located at 9432 Telegraph Road from P-B (Parking Buffer) to C-2 (General Commercial) to the next
regularly scheduled City Council Meeting of July 14, 2020 at 6:30 p.m.
6. CONSIDERED AND APPROVED AN AMENDMENT TO THE 2017-2018 HOME INVESTMENT
PARTNERSHIPS GRANT ANNUAL ACTION PLAN FOR THE USE OF HOME FUNDS TOWARD
THE CITY'S TENANT BASED RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR LOW -TO -MODERATE
INCOME DOWNEY RESIDENTS THAT HAVE EXPERIENCED COVID-19 RELATED ECONOMIC
HARDSHIP: Community Development.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 6
Council Member Rodriguez abatainedfnonoUle Public Hearing due toowning rental property in
the City and he left the dais.
Mayor Pacheco opened the Public Hearing at 8:08p.m. City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the
Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pm Tern Fmmeta.
and So ordered by the Mayor to receive and file. City Clerk Duarte reported no correspondence was
City Manager Liv8S SiGiBd this item was brought before the City COuOC| at the Regular City
Council Meeting of June 9. 2020 where the City Council provided direction to staff. He restated the
direction to staff was to allocate $200.000 to the Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program from the
H[>K4E Program in order to meet the City Counci|'a total goal of$7OU.00U for assistance to Downey
residential tenants that have experienced COVID-19 related economic hardship.
E]iFeCtO[ Schindler p[HS8DtHd the staff report. He provided 8 brief Upd8L8 SiDC8 the |@UOCh of the
program on June 17. He reported on the first day staff received 190 oa||a; MO oa||a were received on
June 18; 32 C@||S received on June 19; and, as of today only 20 C8||S were received from individuals
iOtHFHSt8d in the program. He SL@t8d in total 382 iDt8[8St8d 8pp|iC@OtS have submitted SC[8HOiDg iO1@kG
forms. Staff found that the average [8OL8| unit size is two bHdn]OOOS with one bath and the 8V8[8gH
monthly rent is $1.600.00. These findings are based on the information provided by in the screening
intake forms. He provided o brief description of the initial intake screening and described the application
distribution process once the 500 screenings have been conducted. He stated staff will provide
GS8i8tonC8 to complete the 8pp|iC@U0nS and he expects approximately 400 individuals will receive
@SSiGtGnCe through the Tenant Based Rental Assistance Program.
K88yOr Pro Tern FrOrnet8 inquired if the application submission deadline vvOU|d be extended.
Director Schindler clarified the program does not have a deadline and staff will continue to distribute
applications until the 500 8pp|iC8dOnS have been met. He stated if the interest C8||S continue to decline
and the core number nfinterested applicants has not been rne1 then staff will ne-ueeeaa its outreach
and marketing.
Council Member 888b inquired what options residents have to apply for the program ifthey dO
not have an email or access to a computer. Director Schindler stated residents are able to oa|| the
Department for the initial intake screening and the application will either be able to be picked up in
person ormailed [nthe resident.
Mayor Pacheco asked if the Department has sufficient staffing to aaaia1 the residents. Director
Schindler confirmed the Department has more than sufficient staffing.
Mayor Pacheco opened this item for public comment at8:13 p.m. Mayor Pacheco asked City
Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who would like to comment on the Public
Hearing item. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any written oonnnnentn received on
the Public Hearing item. W1oynr Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who
vVOu|d like to comment on Public Hearing item.
Rodo|fo Cortes Barragan, non-renident, commented regarding pub|inoUons, protesting for rent
cancellations, and homeless prevention.
Ian Jom8sVn, non-resident, commented regarding the First Amendment and Brown Act
violations.
Joey Martinez, resident, commented regarding the increase in COVID-19 cases, the rental crisis
due to |onG of employment, and alternative methods Of publishing information to reach all nn8rnb8rs of
the CODlDlUnitv.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23.2020 7
Resident, no name provided, commented regarding rent cancellations for residents.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, seconded by Council Member Saab, and so ordered
by Mayor Pacheco to close the Public Hearing at 8:20 p.m.
City Attorney Abich Garcia stated under the Federal Constitution there is a provision that states
local city government or government at any level cannot impair existing contracts. She stated if there is
an existing lease or rental agreement in place the landlords are entitled to collect rents. The City cannot
adopt an ordinance that would cancel the payment of rent that is owed to the landlord. Should the City
do so the City would be liable for their actions. The City is utilizing other tools available such as the
rental assistance program and the other items on tonight's agenda, however, the City cannot adopt
regulations that impair existing contracts similar to a contract between a landlord and tenant for
example.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa and carried 4-0-
1 with Council Member Rodriguez abstaining to approve an Amendment to the 2017-2018 Home
Investment Partnerships Grant Annual Action Plan for the use of HOME funds toward the City's Tenant
Based Rental Assistance Program for low -to -moderate income Downey residents that have
experienced COVID-19 related economic hardship.
NON -AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who
would like to comment on Non -Agenda items. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if any written
public comments were submitted regarding Non -Agenda items. Mayor Pacheco asked if there was
anyone present who would like to comment on Non -Agenda items.
Rodolfo Cortes Barragan, non-resident, commented in opposition to privatize water and Senate
Bill 625.
Non-resident, no name provided, commented in opposition of the creation of Senate Bill 625
and the dissolution of the Central Basin Municipal Water District.
Ian Jameson, non-resident, commented regarding privatizing public water, Central Basin
Municipal Water District's Board of Directors, and against Senate Bill 625.
Non -Resident, no name provided, commented in opposition of Senate Bill 625.
Joey Martinez, resident, commented regarding the First Amendment, political leaders and in
opposition of Senate Bill 625.
Linda Bassett, non-resident, commented in opposition to Senate Bill 1795 and Senate Bill 625.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed Non -Agenda public comment.
City Manager Livas provided a brief update regarding Senate Bill 625. He stated the Bill is
supported by 22 cities; and, the Bill has gone through the California State Assembly and is currently
before the California State Senate. He stated the Bill would not privatize water and explained there are
currently two processes occurring the first is Senate Bill 625 that would place Central Basin Municipal
Water District into receivership under the Water Resource District, a public entity, and will go through a
LAFCO process. The second process is lawsuits that were filed against the Central Basin Municipal
Water District that are moving forward through the judicial process. He said the City is awaiting the
outcome of both processes.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 8
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who
would like to comment on Consent Calendar items. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there
were any written comments received regarding Consent Calendar items. Mayor Pacheco asked if there
was anyone present who would like to comment on the Consent Calendar items.
Having none, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
City Clerk Duarte pulled Item No. 7, due to a error in the date of the City Council meeting
minutes.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa and carried
unanimously to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
7. APPROVE MINUTES: Regular Meeting of May 12, 2020: City Clerk.
8. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 344062 — 344424; Payroll Wire Nos. 30003998 & 30004001 —
30004004; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2013 — 2014 in the total amount of $4,172,634.54: Finance.
9. ACCEPTED WORK FOR PARAMOUNT BLVD. MEDIAN ISLAND IMPROVEMENTS BETWEEN
IMPERIAL HWY. AND FIRESTONE BLVD. (PHASE 1); APPROVED FINAL CONSTRUCTION
CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $1,804,446.98; AND, AUTHORIZED THE PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE NOTICE OF COMPLETION (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT NO. 14-18): Public Works.
10. AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
SHAW HR CONSULTING, INC. FOR FEHA/DISABILITY INTERACTIVE PROCESS SERVICES:
Human Resources.
11. APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MIG, INC., FOR
PREPARATION OF THE 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN, AND
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ANY AND ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE
AGREEMENT: Community Development.
12. APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR THE PUBLICATION OF LEGAL
NOTICES WITH THE DOWNEY PATRIOT FOR THE PERIOD BEGINNING JULY 1, 2020 TO
JUNE 30, 2021: City Clerk.
13. APPROVED A MASTER SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT WITH GRANICUS, LLC FOR PEAK
AGENDA MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE: City Clerk.
14. AUTHORIZED RENEWAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT BETWEEN DIGITAL
EMS SOLUTIONS, INC. AND THE CITY OF DOWNEY FOR ELECTRONIC PATIENT CARE
REPORTING SOFTWARE AND DATA STORAGE: Fire.
15. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7949, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF DOWNEY ADOPTING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY
OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY POLICE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (JULY 1, 2020 —
JUNE 30, 2023): Human Resources.
16. ADOPTED RESOLUTIONS PERTAINING TO THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION OF
THREE COUNCIL MEMBER SEATS FOR DISTRICTS 1, 3 AND 5 FOR NOVEMBER 3, 2020: City
Clerk.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 9
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7950, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020 FOR THE ELECTION OF CERTAIN
OFFICERS AS REQUIRED BY THE PROVISIONS OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY CITY
CHARTER;
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7951, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY, CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE
COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO CONSOLIDATE THE CITY'S GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2020, WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE DATE PURSUANT TO SECTION 10403 OF THE
CALIFORNIA ELECTIONS CODE; AND, RENDER SPECIFIED SERVICES TO THE CITY
RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020; AND,
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 20-7952, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF DOWNEY ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE
OFFICE PERTAINING TO CANDIDATES STATEMENTS SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT
AN ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2020.
18. DIRECTED THE CITY CLERK AND CITY ATTORNEY TO CONDUCT THE BIENNIAL REVIEW
OF THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE: City Clerk/City Attorney.
19. RECEIVED AND FILED THE 2019 GENERAL PLAN ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT:
Community Development.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
20. URGENCY ORDINANCE ENACTING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON EVICTIONS OF
COMMERCIAL TENANTS IMPACTED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND ESTABLISHING A
RENT REPAYMENT PERIOD: City Attorney.
ADOPTED URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 20-1444, AN UNCODIFIED URGENCY
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY PURSUANT TO
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 8634 AND DOWNEY CITY CHARTER
SECTIONS 511 AND 514 ENACTING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON EVICTIONS OF
COMMERCIAL TENANTS FOR NONPAYMENT OF RENT RESULTING FROM LOSS OF
INCOME DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC; ESTABLISHING A RENT REPAYMENT
PERIOD; AND SETTING FORTH THE FACTS CONSTITUTING SUCH URGENCY
City Attorney Abich Garcia presented the staff report. She stated at the Regular City Council
Meeting of June 9, 2020, she received direction from the City Council to return with an ordinance
enacting a temporary Moratorium on evictions and establishing a repayment period for commercial
tenants. She stated a 4/5 majority vote would be required to adopt the ordinance.
Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who
would like to comment on Item No. 20. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any
written comments received on Item No. 20. Mayor Pacheco asked if there was anyone present who
would like to comment on Item No. 20.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding the First Amendment, vacancies at the
Promenade, cost of renting commercial units, rental assistance for residents, homelessness, and
political leaders.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 10
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa, seconded by Council Member Rodriguez and carried
unanimously to adopt an Urgency Ordinance No. 20-1444, Uncodified Urgency Ordinance of the City
Council of the City of Downey pursuant to California Government Code Section 8634 and Downey City
Charter Sections 511 and 514 enacting a temporary Moratorium on evictions of commercial tenants for
nonpayment of rent resulting from loss of income due to the COVID -19 Pandemic; establishing a rent
repayment period; and setting forth the facts constituting such urgency.
21. URGENCY ORDINANCE ENACTING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON EVICTIONS OF
RESIDENTIAL TENANTS IMPACTED BY THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND ESTABLISHING A
RENT REPAYMENT PERIOD: City Attorney.
ADOPTED URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 20-1445, AN UNCODIFIED URGENCY
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY PURSUANT TO
CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 8634 AND DOWNEY CITY CHARTER
SECTIONS 511 AND 514 ENACTING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON EVICTIONS OF
RESIDENTIAL TENANTS FOR NONPAYMENT OF RENT RESULTING FROM LOSS OF
INCOME DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC; ESTABLISHING A RENT REPAYMENT
PERIOD; AND SETTING FORTH THE FACTS CONSTITUTING SUCH URGENCY
Council Member Rodriguez announced he would abstain from this item due to owning
residential property in the City and left the dais.
City Attorney Abich Garcia presented the staff report. She stated the ordinance applies to
residential tenants and places a Moratorium on residential tenants until July 28, 2020 and establishes a
repayment period of two months to repay every month of rent that is in arrears. She stated a 4/5
majority vote would be required to adopt the ordinance.
Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference line who
would like to comment on Item No. 21. Mayor Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there were any
written comments received on Item No. 21. Mayor Pacheco asked if there was anyone present who
would like to comment on Item No. 21.
Alex Contreras, resident, commented regarding extending the moratorium six months longer
than the July 28, 2020, termination date and allow additional time to repay rent aside from the proposed
repayment period.
Armando Herman, resident, commented regarding rental assistance, extending the repayment
period and political leaders.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Saab, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Frometa and carried 4-0-
1 with Council Member Rodriguez abstaining to adopt an Uncodified Urgency Ordinance No. 20-1445,
of the City Council of the City of Downey pursuant to California Government Code Section 8634 and
Downey City Charter Sections 511 and 514 enacting a temporary Moratorium on evictions of residential
tenants for nonpayment of rent resulting from loss of income due to the COVID-19 Pandemic;
establishing a rent repayment period; and setting forth the facts constituting such urgency.
STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS: None.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 11
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pacheco adjourned the Regular City Council meeting at 9:00 p.m. in memory of the lives
affected by COVID-19; and, the following fallen officers: Officer Julian Keen, Jr., Florida Fish and
Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida; Agent Johan Mordan, US Department of Homeland
Security; Officer Dale T. Provins, Jr., Jefferson Hills Borough PD, Pennsylvania; Deputy Sheriff James
Blair, Simpson County Sheriff's Office, Mississippi; Sergeant Damon Gutzwiller, Santa Cruz County
Sheriff's Office, California; and, the earthquake victims in Oaxaca, Mexico.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CIVIC BLANCA PACHECO
City Clerk Mayor
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — June 23, 2020 12