HomeMy WebLinkAbout01a. Minutes - 06-09-21 - Special MeetingMINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
SPECIAL MEETING
JUNE 9, 2021
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Special City Council Meeting on June 9, 2021, at
3:09 p.m., in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey,
California, Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Claudia M. Frometa Mayor (excused)
Blanca Pacheco Mayor Pro Tern
Catherine Alvarez Council Member
Sean Ashton Council Member
Mario Trujillo Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager
John Oskoui, Assistant City Manager
Yvette M. Abich Garcia, City Attorney
Aldo E. Schindler, Deputy City Manager/Community Development
Dean Milligan, Chief of Police
Dan Hurlock, Fire Chief
Anil Gandhy, Finance Director
Delfino Consunji, Public Works Director
Jason Chacon, Interim Director of Parks and Recreation
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant to the City Manager
Alicia Duarte, CIVIC, City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMENT ON SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received
regarding Special Meeting Agenda Items. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written comments were
received. Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone on the teleconference
line who would like to comment on Special Meeting Agenda items.
Having none, Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco closed public comment.
1. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FISCAL YEAR 2021-2022 PROPOSED CITY BUDGET:
Finance.
City Manager Livas presented a brief overview of the proposed Annual City Budget. He
commented regarding the Budget aligning with the Goals and Priorities set by the City Council at the
Council's Goals and Priorities Workshop. He stated staff will report to the City Council on a quarterly
basis to provide updates regarding the progress of the various budgetary goals. He announced staff is
proud to present a $228 million balanced Budget during this pandemic year while continuing to provide
services to the community without interruptions. The Budget is comprised of $93 million General Fund
and $135 million is derived of other funds. In addition, staff plans to investment in roads and is in the
process of securing an additional $30 million in revenue funding that will become part of the Budget
upon receipt. The City will expend over $45 million dollars in roads over the next three years. He stated
the City has undertaken $67 million in infrastructure improvements. He thanked the City Council for
their direction and staff for their diligent work throughout the Budget process.
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021
Director Gandhy provided a presentation regarding the proposed annual City Budget. He stated
for the FY 2021-22 City Budget there is a balance summary reflection of $27,564,834 in reserves,
$93,816,239 for proposed operating expenditures, $93,821,333 for proposed operating revenue,
leaving a surplus of $5,094; and, a final ending reserve of $27,569,928.
Director Gandhy provided a general overview of COVID-19's impact on the City's revised
estimated revenue for FY 2019-20 as $2.46 million and for FY 2020-21 as $5.4 million for a combined
two year total of $7.9 million. He stated the impact of the loss of revenue was due to the loss of sales.
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) will subsidize the $8 million revenue deficit.
Director Gandhy presented the various sources of the General Fund Revenue. He mentioned
the major sources of revenue are derived from property tax and sales tax for a total of 66% revenue. He
presented the sources of revenue by category and compared FY 2020-21 to FY 2021-22. He noted
COVID-19 will not affect property taxes and property taxes are projected to increase by $1.2 million.
The projected total Utility User Tax revenue for FY 2021-22 is $6.2 million. He added the $550,000
decreased projection is due to the reduction of residential landlines and the gas and electric tax are
projected to remain consistent.
Director Gandhy provided a general overview of the City's projected total expenses as
$93,818,239. He commented regarding the $4.4 million decrease in salaries, benefits and PERS costs
compared to the previous year. He attributed the decrease to the refinancing of the PERS Pension
Obligation Bonds. He attributed the increase of $328,918 in Public Works to the additional maintenance
of City parks, and the transfer out of $1,061,500 was to the Columbia Memorial Space Center.
Director Gandy provided a general overview of the full time staff. He stated the staff decreased
was due to the loss of the City's ASPIRE Program. He also provided an overview of the reclassified
positions to accurately reflect the scope of duties and responsibilities for three positions in Public Works
as title changes. The position of Director of Community Development to Deputy City
Manager/Community Development was approved by the City Council at a previous meeting and has
been included for codification during this year's Budget cycle; in Public Works the Assistant Civil
Engineer 1—Utilities to Assistant Civil Engineer 11—Utilities; and, Senior Accountant to Principal
Accountant in the Finance Department.
City Manager Livas stated the City of Downey has 425 employees and when compared to
surrounding the cities Downey ranks number nine, in the number of employees per capita. Staff
manages its labor cost by limiting the number of essential people hired and by managing the City's
PERS Obligations. The City has a 5% Pension costs saving to keep Downey competitive in the market
place to secure the top quality employees. He stated the City Council approved the Deputy City
Manager/Community Development position previously and emphasized the importance of the position.
Council Member Alvarez asked if the Deputy City Manager/Community Development title
change was associated with a salary increase. City Manager Livas reiterated the position was
previously approved and the salary was reflected in last year's Budget therefore no increase is reflected
in this year's Budget. He added the Assistant Civil Engineer II —Utilities and Principal Accountant do
involve minor salary increases due to the duties involved.
Director Gandhy provided a general overview of the CalPERS impact on the General Fund. He
stated the unfunded accrued liability is $212 million, the Bonds issued were $115 million, the Pre -
funded Rate was at 67% and the Post -funded Rate is 85% for a total savings of $60 million. He stated
the previous Bond Rating was —AA and has increased to a bond rating of AA which is reflected in the
Market Interest Rate of 2.6% provided by Bank of America.
Director Gandhy provided an economic overview for the United States. He reported the U.S.
continued to make economic history by extending its growth. He commented regarding the U.S.
economy's dramatic changed in March 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. By March 2021 the
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 2
unemployment rate decreased to 11.6% from the 14.7% peak in April 2020 when it was at the highest
rate and largest over -the -month increase in recorded history dating back to January 1948. The housing
market has increased by 17.2%, and sales increased by 26%. In 2021 the housing trend is expected to
continue to be in high demand and high appreciation for home values.
Director Gandhy provided an economic overview of the revenue and expenditures for the City;
and, explained how the Budget for FY 2020-21 significantly changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He reported the local economy saw a dramatic decline. The housing market rose in the fourth quarter of
2020 to 41.5%. He reported the forecast for existing single-family home sales to increase by 3.3% by
the end of 2021.
Director Gandhy provided an overview of the challenges ahead as the economy slowly
recovers; managing COVID-19 related expenditures; COVID-19 supply chain disruption effects on
sales tax; full workforce back to work; rising inflation; and, prudent management of expenditures to
align with revenue projections in order to maintain a balanced Budget and avoid cuts in programs,
services, and staffing. He reaffirmed staff will continue to adjust the Budget to ensure it accurately
reflects the services and programs the City can fund.
Director Gandhy stated the Department Heads would present highlights and important
accomplishments for their individual Departments. He proceeded to present the Finance Department's
Accomplishments for FY 2020-21 for the five divisions he oversees: Administration, General
Accounting, Revenue, Risk Management/Non-Departmental, and Information Technology. He
summarized the Finance Department's accomplishments as performing at the highest professional
standard for all aspects of fiscal administration for the City.
Director Gandhy summarized the Finance Department's Goals for FY 2021-22: working with the
Public Works Department to issue $30 million of street bonds in order to accelerate street improvement
projects in the City; update the five-year financial projections and increase to a 10-year projection with
PERS actuarial analysis incorporated; continue with short and long term financial strategic sustainability
plans (updated on an annual basis); increase the amount of online billing payments; conduct City-wide
training for the new purchasing policy; update the City's cost allocation plan; and, recruit for the
Assistant Finance Director position.
Information Technology Division Manager Lam presented the Information Technology Division's
Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: adopted a new backup solution for the City-wide Data Center;
reached I.T. goal of virtualizing 80% of all servers in the data centers; upgraded City Hall Data Center
storage network system to handle more data and virtual servers; implemented fail over ISP (Internet
Service Provider); upgraded Library's new Data Center; upgraded Fire Department's new Data Center;
upgrade City-wide end user workstations to Windows 10; and, completed Council Chamber Phase II
upgrade.
Information Technology Division Manager Lam provided a brief overview of the Department's
Goals for FY 2021-22: develop a City-wide Cyber Governance Policy and procedures; upgrade the
City's phone system backbone; and, increase participation of online Cyber Security Awareness training.
Council Member Trujillo asked what department oversees the city-wide communications to the
community. City Manager Livas stated the Fire or Police Departments are responsible for disbursing
information to the community via the Everbridge System.
Council Member Trujillo inquired which department oversees residents' access to the internet.
City Manager Livas stated resident's access to the internet is provided by private entities. The Public
Works Department assists the private entities with the permit process for the construction portion of the
project such as trenching to lay broadband. City Manager Livas commented regarding communications
the City has received from residents regarding the ineffective or lack of service in certain areas of the
City. Staff is working on a pilot program to provide high speed internet service to the community. He
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 3
added that this is not a service that cities provide. The City Manager's Office and Public Works
Department are working to find a solution to attract providers to the City.
City Attorney Abich Garcia provided a brief overview of the Accomplishments for the City
Attorney's Office for FY 2020-21: provided a wide -range of legal services to promote the objectives of
the City Council through its City Departments; assisted in the evaluation of pre -litigation claims,
increased involvement in City's Risk Pool and encouraged use of Risk Pool resources; updated several
ordinances and policies to meet current legal standards; continued to reduce the number of litigation
matters and to seek third party indemnification when appropriate; and, addressed the pressing needs of
theCity during COVID-19 local emergency.
City Attorney Abich Garcia shared the Department Goals for FY 2021-22: continue to reduce the
number of active litigation matters and reduce City's legal fees; continue to review pre -litigation claims
for early resolution; work with Planning to update New Planning Commissioner Handbook; and, training
of City Commissions and Boards on Brown Act, Public Records Act and Ethics.
City Manager Livas commented regarding how fortunate the City of Downey is to have an in-
house legal counsel. He stated City Attorney Abich Garcia is always available throughout the day. He
addressed the major differences between an in-house legal counsel and a contracted legal counsel. He
mentioned a contracted legal counsel is only available for a few hours in the office and due to having to
provide legal representation to other cities. He stated the in-house legal counsel is something unique to
the City of Downey.
Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco thanked City Attorney Abich Garcia for her aggressive efforts to
ensure the City's litigation costs are kept to a minimum.
Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas presented the City Manager's Office Accomplishments
for FY 2020-21: launched City of Downey Store; implementation and completion of Measure S Projects;
coordinated various virtual ribbon cuttings for Measure S Projects; distribution of COVID-19 information
through the City's website and various social media platforms; successful management of the $1.4
million CARES Act Stimulus Funds; increased followers across all social media platforms; produced
various City update videos; successful drive-thru food & community events during COVID-19; increased
collaboration with homeless service providers; and, translation of the City Council Agenda and
community information on social media to Spanish.
Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas presented the Department's Goals for FY 2021-22:
increase ongoing public communication regarding City awards & achievements; create a Downey Arts
Council where local art organizations can come together, and brainstorm ideas to launch crowdfunding
campaigns for art pieces, events and programs in the City; develop an in-house Theatre Company for
small theatre on the 2nd floor of the Theatre, explore Stay Gallery incorporation; activate plaza between
City Hall and Theatre, roundabout; Measure S Thank You Event; continue to explore ways to address
homelessness in conjunction with the Community Development Department; explore Youth
Development Program — connecting Youth to varies career fields; evaluate City's Branding and
Community Civic Education; update the City's Customer Survey; successful management of the
American Rescue Plan Stimulus Funds; and, begin process for City Council District Redistricting.
City Manager Livas commented on the legislative platform Assistant to the City Manager De
Rojas oversees which includes the required mobilization of other cities to oppose bills that could
potentially create harm to the City. He thanked Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas, Management
Analysts Rivas and Montenegro for their work with all the social media postings to ensure the residents
are immediately informed of any and all changes occurring throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Director McQueen provided the presentation for the Human Resources Department's
Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: conducted recruitment and selection processes; eligibility/hiring lists
to meet City staffing needs resulting in the hiring of 31 full-time and 63 part-time employees, including
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 4
six Police Officers and eight Firefighter Paramedics; processed 8,035 employment applications;
processed 876 Personnel Status Reports (PSR's) for authorized payroll actions; offered 12 training
sessions on a wide range of topics including Harassment Prevention, Supervisory Skills, Performance
Evaluations, and COVID employment issues; completed labor negotiations for DCEA-MISC, DCEA-
MAINT, and DPSAA MOD's; City's employee COVID response including: developing COVID
Prevention Plan, Temporary Telecommuting Policy, COVID Leave Policies, and responding to over 250
employee related COVID inquiries; revised City's Administrative Regulations regarding Tuition
Reimbursement and Reasonable Accommodations; implemented electronic benefits module for online
open enrollment for employee benefits; and, expanded use of the City's online training program to
include Mandatory Reporter and Harassment Prevention training.
Director McQueen provided the presentation for the Human Resources Department's Goals for
FY 2021-22: continue to monitor and update City's employment COVID-19 Policies and Procedures;
continue to expand the use of automated, web -based Training Module to bring additional training
courses to a greater number of employees; continue to update employee performance evaluation
forms; and conduct 10-20 employee training courses throughout the year including, but not limited to,
Enhancing Supervisory Skills; Conducting Effective Performance Evaluations; Managing Employee
Safety and Risk; Exercising Management Rights; and, Harassment Prevention in the Workplace.
Council Member Trujillo inquired if employees are utilizing the Tuition Reimbursement program.
Director McQueen confirmed employees do utilize the program.
City Clerk Duarte provided the presentation for the City Clerk's Department Accomplishments
for FY 2020-21: successfully managed and assisted nine (9) Candidates in the November 3, 2020 City
Election per the California Elections Code; hosted an FPPC Campaign Finance Training for Candidates
and Treasures; provided Election and Voter Registration information to residents via the City's Social
Media Platforms; collaborated with the City Attorney to conduct the biennial review and update of the
City's Conflict of Interests Code; managed FPPC filings for over 125 Conflict of Interests filers, including
13 Campaign Committees; received and processed over 700 Public Records Requests; received and
processed over 100 Subpoenas, Summons and Claims combined; electronically transmitted over 60
documents from various City Departments to the L.A. County Registrar -Recorder's Office for
recordation; trained City staff on Agenda posting requirements for Commission, Board and Committee
meetings during the pandemic; conducted approximately 10 bid openings for City projects including
modifying the bid openings to outdoors during the pandemic; posted and distributed 30 City Council
Meeting Agendas; and, transcribed 40 City Council Meeting Minutes; processed approximately 65 City
Council Resolutions; processed and codified 20 Ordinances; processed and tracked over 80 City
Council approved Agreements and/or Contracts; Deputy City Clerk earned the Certified Municipal Clerk
Designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks; collaborated closely with the I.T.
Division to conduct virtual City Council Meetings via Zoom; ensured public access and participation in
the Meetings during the pandemic; and, collaborated with I.T. on the Council Chamber's audio/visual
system upgrade including public speaker timer, public comment telephone line, dais monitors, and
video control system.
City Clerk Duarte provided the presentation for the City Clerk's Department Goals for FY 2021-
22: finalize implementation of Agenda Management Software and train City staff on the process, the
City Clerk's Office staff is currently in the training progress; identify and implement an electronic Public
Records Request (PRR) Management Software to streamline the PRR process by reducing staff time
processing and tracking requests; implement electronic filings for FPPC Campaign Finance Forms to
simplify the filing process for Campaign Committees; and, update the City's Records Retention
Schedule to remain compliant with all laws.
Executive Director Dickow presented the Columbia Memorial Space Center's Accomplishments
for FY 2020-21: delivered nearly 600 online programs; presented over 15 large online events; engaged
nearly 90,000 people; developed new partnerships including with YMCA, LAUSD, and Girl Scouts; and,
hosted NASA's first Spanish -language touchdown broadcast and began the Center Expansion Project.
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 5
Executive Director Dickow presented the Columbia Memorial Space Center's Goals for FY
2021-22: reopen the Space Center; complete the design phase and begin construction of the
expansion project; engage 100,000 people; upgrade the AV system and Robotics Lab in current
building; recruit two new Foundation Board members; renew fundraising goals; continue online
programming and integrate with in -person programs; scale up Girls in STEM program and Science
Club network; and, further streamline workflow between departments.
Council Member Trujillo asked what the Space Center's expansion entailed. Executive Director
Dickow stated the project is still in the early stages staff has conducted the internal envision process to
see what will be expected to be included in the designs while maximizing the space; and, consultants
were interviewed to begin the design process for the project.
Council Member Trujillo inquired if the funding from Assembly Member Garcia has been
secured. Executive Director Dickow confirmed the funding has been secured and the City has until
2025 to fully expend all funds.
Executive Director Dickow presented the Downey Library Accomplishments for FY 2020-21:
opened Renovated Library; delivered over 100 original online programs including Story Time, bilingual
Story Time and craft classes; provided a virtual Summer Reading Program for nearly 1500 youth and
adults; completed the Library app; completed monthly and bi-monthly staff trainings and development
activities; and, shelved over 80,000 items (nearly 73,000 from January — February).
Executive Director Dickow presented the Downey Library Goals for FY 2021-22: fully opened
the renovated Library; launch In -Person Programming, including new workshop and studio programs
and outreach activities; explore ways to increase access to the Library including examining the fines
and fee structure and expanding the Downey One Card; provide a hybrid Summer Reading Program
and Winter Program; further streamline workflow between departments; complete the review of Library
policies and procedures; continue online programming and integrate with new in -person programs; and,
present at two major Library-themed conferences (ALA, CLA, etc.).
Interim Director of Parks & Recreation Chacon provided the presentation for the Parks and
Recreation Department's Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: created new senior "Grab & Go Meal"
program and served over 70,000 meals; delivered 3,500 meals to homebound seniors; made over
8,000 senior wellness calls; created a new "Virtual Programming" during COVID Stay at Home Orders;
developed new #DowneyAtHome campaign with Kaiser Permanente sponsorship; created new online
Recreation Resource Center; offered new "Socially Distanced" events: Virtual 5k; two Family Drive In
Movies events; 4th of July Home Decorating contest; Halloween Candy Crawl; Holiday Home
Decorating contest; Selfie with the Elfie; Bunny Hop thru; offered new "Socially Distant" contract
classes for adults & youth; sports skill development; sports training & conditioning; fitness; Karate; and,
dances.
Interim Director of Parks & Recreation Chacon provided the presentation for the Parks and
Recreation Department's Goals for FY 2021-22: create marquee events at other park sites; continue to
explore grants for potential park renovations in existing parks that still require improvements; increase
events at the Downey Theatre - "re -introduce programming"; work with Rio Hondo Golf Club
contractors to increase banquets and tournaments; explore creating an Annual Volunteer Recognition
event; and, develop additional adaptive recreation programming with social enrichment programs.
Council Member Alvarez inquired if there were any upcoming projects identified for the Rio San
Gabriel Park to deal with the uneven grounds. Interim Director of Parks & Recreation Chacon confirmed
staff is aware of the park's issues and Rio San Gabriel Park was initially included in the Measure S
Projects. Due to the $7 million costs for the repairs of the park staff has been looking to identify
additional funding at County, State and Federal levels that may be able to renovate the entire park.
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 6
Council Member Trujillo asked if staff has a timeline to complete the project. Interim Director of
Parks & Recreation Chacon stated at the current time staff is still working to identify funding.
City Manager Livas stated the main issue with Rio San Gabriel Park is the park was built on a
former landfill and the ground continues to sink. He attributed the continuous issue with the park
grounds to the irrigation system even though ground dirt is replenished. Staff concluded that pylons will
be needed to be installed into the ground to ensure the ground is stabilized. He added the project will
need to be conducted in phases to secure funding and lower the overall cost to the City.
Assistant City Manager Oskoui confirmed the total cost of the project is approximately $8.5
million to bridge and install pylons throughout the park in order to stabilize the ground and prevent any
further saturation. Staff has concluded that a synthetic field will be required to be installed to prevent
the need to irrigate the park grounds.
Council Member Ashton inquired if the Ride and Stride program would be reinstated. Interim
Director of Parks & Recreation Chacon confirmed the funding is still available and staff has been in
communications with the recipients to advise that the City is still interested and staff is awaiting a
response.
Council Member Trujillo inquired if residents are able to access free internet in City Parks and if
so are there any advertisement advising patrons of the internet access posted throughout the parks.
Executive Director Dickow stated the Library has a grant for a virtual Library and there is connectivity at
Discovery Park, Apollo Park, Furman Park and the Civic Center. These parks all have Wi-Fi access
points which allows for strong coverage within the parks. He added staff has been promoting Wi-Fi
access on the Library's website and the City's social media platforms.
Interim Director of Parks & Recreation Chacon stated it is not currently advertised at the parks
and staff will install signage to promote Wi-Fi access.
Council Member Trujillo thanked the Police Department for clearing up Golden Park.
Deputy City Manager/Community Development Schindler provided the presentation for the
Community Development Department Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: created strategies to adapt to
new Housing Legislations such as alternative to SB 50; redevelopment of the Promenade: Back 20 &
NASA/Vultee Building adaptive reuse; fostered Downtown Downey growth and promotion by attracting
retail, restaurant, and housing developments; completed all Downtown Public Art Projects; facilitates
construction of Marriott Hotel at 9066 Firestone Blvd.; continued assisting in the economic growth of the
City by facilitating the revitalization of all commercial corridors; continued to facilitate the development
of quality residential and commercial projects; established Design Guidelines for Single -Family
Residential Zones (i.e. results of Mansionization Study); facilitated construction of the Avenue Theater;
worked with the County of Los Angeles on the development of affordable housing for Veterans at the
former American Legion site; maintained a high level of customer service through efficient and speedy
service at the public counter for accurate and timely plan review; facilitated completion of construction
of new Kaiser Permanente Tower; continued to expand the use of the ACCELA permit tracking system;
worked with County of Los Angeles on the construction of the Rancho South Campus Sports Fields;
maintained and improved Downey's quality of life through Code Enforcement actions dealing with
problematic abandoned and vacant properties; explored an enhanced Infrastructure Finance District for
the Transit Village for the West Santa Ana Branch; continued to prepare a new specific plan for the
West Santa Ana Branch light rail station; worked with internal departments to combat illegal dumping;
assisted families and/or individuals who are homeless or on the verge of becoming homeless with
locating permanent housing; reviewed Downtown Specific Plan to determine if need to update
zoning/offerings; and, established Emergency COVID-19 Programs that assisted local businesses and
renters with grants.
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 7
Deputy City Manager/Community Development Schindler provided the presentation for the
Community Development Department Goals for FY 2021-22: completion of Rancho South Campus
Sports Complex; assist City Council Housing Subcommittee as it explores Affordable Housing
development; complete Housing Element Update to create strategies to adapt to new Housing
Legislation; restoration of the former NASA Vultee Building; continue to support residents and business
with COVID-19 financial assistance; explore ways to address Homelessness; and, provide other
support programs to businesses in Downey through Shop Downey Campaign, and, help coordinate job
fairs.
Council Member Trujillo inquired as to which department is responsible for neighborhood
preservation and blight within the City, particularly shopping centers. Deputy City Manager/Community
Development Schindler stated the Community Development Department is responsible to address
neighborhood preservation and blight in shopping centers.
Council Member Trujillo inquired about the status on addressing neon signs throughout the
City. City Manager Livas stated staff is addressing the issue of neon signs and it has come to staff's
attention that neon signage is a sensitive issue for the business owners as the business owners are of
the impression that blight of neon signage is necessary to call patrons to their businesses. He added
blight is an issue staff addresses as part of their daily routine. He commented regarding how
unfortunate it is that many of the strip malls do not meet the definition of blight. He stated staff has also
offered to provide grant money to property owners in order to address the blight at specific locations.
Council Member Alvarez asked if the City has plans to build affordable housing at the Rancho
Los Amigos site. City Manager Livas stated currently no final housing plans have been submitted by
any developer. He added a developer submitted temporary plans to build 700 units however no
additional information has been submitted.
Council Member Ashton inquired about the status of the Rives Mansion. Deputy City
Manager/Community Development Schindler stated the Rives Mansion is progressing expeditiously. He
commented regarding the challenges as being a historical site and the requirement of an Architectural
Historian who provides pure review on all the work or alterations being done at the site.
Council Member Ashton inquired about the progress with the neighborhood naming. Deputy City
Manager/Community Development Schindler stated the major challenge at this point is the passing of
Larry Latimer. Prior to Mr. Latimer's passing he was able to finalize approximately 80% of the project.
Since then staff has contacted the Historic Preservation Groups to obtain a replacement for Mr.
Latimer. Director Schindler mentioned speaking with Mr. Thompson whom referred him to the Downey
Conservancy and he spoke with Mr. Redfox. Mr. Schindler is awaiting feedback from Mr. Redfox and
his team. He added, the challenge with the Downey Conservancy is all the members have full time jobs
and only work on issues in their spare time.
Council Member Ashton asked if staff has a plan to account for the increase of RHNA numbers
and will the zoning need to be amended. Deputy City Manager/Community Development Schindler
stated the plan is due to the State by the end of year, staff plans to be before the Planning Commission
by the end of summer and before the City Council by the beginning of fall. The City needs to submit
preliminary plans to the State by the end of July. Staff's conceptual plan is to rezone some low
performing commercial properties to allow for mix -use construction. He added the Rancho South
Campus will absorb quite a bit of units, the Promenade has a lot of open space that could potentially
use a rezoning to allow for a mix -use component.
City Manager Livas clarified the City is only required to implement the rezoning to allow for
future development of sites within the City. The City will not construct any housing developments but
merely create the opportunity for future developments by private developers.
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 8
Council Member Trujillo stated the RHNA numbers seem quite high and inquired if staff has
challenged the RHNA numbers. Deputy City Manager/Community Development Schindler stated staff
has challenged the numbers on three separate occasions. He added the only successful City was the
City of Pico Rivera and the reason Pico Rivera was successful was due to the projection included
building units over the dam, an area that is not buildable.
RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco recessed the City Council meeting at 4:36 p.m. Mayor Pro Tern
Pacheco reconvened the City Council meeting at 4:44 p.m. with Mayor Frometa absent.
Chief Milligan presented the Police Department's Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: Coffee with
a Cop events; Reading with the Chief; Drug Take Back events; Virtual Coffee with a Cop; Virtual
Neighborhood Watch Meeting; COVID compliant "Drive -by" Birthday Celebrations; re-established
Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force investigations; conducted several homeless outreach
operations; during the past year the Police Department hired nine Police Officers and 13 new
professional staff members; conducted first etching Catalytic Converters event; established a dedicated
"Street Racing" enforcement detail on the weekends; and, purchased automated license plate readers
with funds from the State Homeland Security Grant.
Chief Milligan presented the Police Department's Goals for FY 2021-22: Citizen/Youth
Academies; National Night Out; Virtual Ride -a -Longs; Drug Take Back events; continue School
Resource Program; add an additional full-time Mental Health Officer; expand Social Media presence;
and, explore various grant opportunities to fund special projects.
City Manager Livas stated the City is fortunate to have the best Police and Fire Departments.
Chief Hurlock thanked the City Council for their leadership. He provided the presentation for the
Fire Department's Accomplishments for FY 2020-21: improved annual mandated training compliance
(ISO Class 1); acquired alternative revenue sources; initiated Records Management System upgrade;
completed construction of new Fire Station Nos. 2 and 4; changed operations to meet COVID-19
guidelines; updated department policies and procedures; completed Battalion Chief, Captain's and
Interim Engineer Promotional Exams; promoted three Battalion Chiefs, three Captains and three
Engineers; graduated Recruit Tower of eight; implemented AutoPulse automatic CPR devices on all
ambulances; completed transition into permanent facility; improved Fire Prevention Inspection
Compliance; implemented and trained City Staff on Integrated Public Alert Warning System (IPAWS);
updated and restocked the Emergency Preparedness Bins (year three of four year plan); acquired a
web -based virtual Emergency Management software; and, completed City's Mass Care and Shelter
Training.
Chief Hurlock provided the presentation for the Fire Department's Goals for FY 2021-22: initiate
Fire Service Accreditation program; develop specifications and explore funding opportunities to
purchase a new command vehicle, a new ladder truck and two new ambulances; complete Records
Management System upgrade; implement technology upgrades that will improve efficiency; improve
Public Outreach, Public Education, and Community Engagement; continue updating department
policies and procedures; improve team building and employee morale; explore moving dispatch service
onto a digital platform; re -district response zones in Downey to improve response time; re -district
response zones in Compton to improve response time; improve efficiency for Fire Prevention and
Hazmat Inspections; and, update and restock the Emergency Preparedness Bins (year four of four year
plan).
Director Consunji provided the presentation for the Public Works Department Accomplishments
for FY 2020-21. Completed 18 projects with a total cost of $19 million: Paramount Blvd. Median
Landscape Improvements; Residential Street Pavement Rehabilitation (Council Districts 3 and 4); Old
River School Rd. Pavement Rehabilitation; 3rd St. Pavement Rehabilitation (Old River School Rd. -
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 9
Rives Ave.); Tweedy Ln. Pavement Rehabilitation; Miscellaneous Concrete Repairs and ADA
Improvements (Council Districts 1 and 2); Stewart & Gray Rd. TS Upgrades; Paramount Blvd. TS
upgrades; Paramount Blvd. at De Palma St. and Fire Station 1 TS installations; 31 St. (Old River
School Rd. to Rives Ave.) Water Improvements; Florence Ave. (Tweedy Ln. to Brookshire Ave.) Water
Improvements; rehabilitated four groundwater wells; Wilderness Park Sewer Improvements; Fidler
Ave., Lubec St., Muller St., 31 St., Smallwood Ave., and Woodruff Ave. sewer main rehabilitations;
Telegraph Rd. Traffic throughput & safety enhancements; Imperial Hwy. TS upgrades; Century Blvd.
Pavement Rehabilitation; City's Traffic Management Center upgrades; City's Active Transportation
Plan; planted 540 trees Citywide; adopted Urban Forest Management Plan and Street Tree Master
Plan; 85 miles of sewer main cleaned and inspected; and, preliminary design of PFAS treatment
systems for eight groundwater wells.
Director Consunji provided the presentation for the Public Works Department Goals for FY
2021-22: completed design and start construction of 15 projects with total budget of $20 million:
Residential Street Pavement Rehabilitation- Area 9; Firestone Blvd. at Lakewood Blvd. Intersection
Improvement; Lakewood Blvd. at Florence Ave. Intersection Improvement; Paramount Blvd at Imperial
Hwy. Intersection Improvement; Lakewood Blvd. at Imperial Hwy. Intersection Improvement; 31 St.
Pavement Rehabilitation (Rives Ave.- Paramount Blvd.); 5th St. Pavement Rehabilitation (Lakewood
Blvd.- Brookshire Ave.); Bike Master Plan Implementation; Lakewood Blvd. ADA & Traffic Safety
Enhancements (Gardendale St.- Century Blvd.); Foster Bridge Blvd., Rivergrove Dr. & Glencliff Dr.
Pavement Rehabilitation; 3rd St. (Rives Ave.- Paramount Blvd.) Water Improvements; 5th St. (Downey
Ave.- Lakewood Blvd.) Water Improvements; Sewer Main Rehabilitation at various locations; Firestone
Blvd. Storm Water Dry Well Improvements; Repave Maintenance Yard Parking Lot; plant 180 trees
Citywide; CCTV inspect and clean 50 miles of sewer mains; 31d St. (Paramount Blvd. to Civic Center
Dr.) Water Improvements; complete design of PFAS treatment systems for three groundwater wells;
Rehabilitate four groundwater wells; and, implementation of SCADA system.
Council Member Alvarez inquired if Well No. 16 has PFAS level regulations. Director Consunji
stated currently there are no State or Federal standards regulating PEAS. He stated the requirement is
set based on the levels of detection then the City is required to notify customers. If the response level is
exceeded then the City is required to either shutdown the well, blend with imported water or treat the
well.
City Manager Livas stated he is proud to present a balanced Budget to the City Council. He
stated staff will continue to monitor the Budget and make adjustments accordingly. He attributed the
balanced Budget to staff's hard work.
Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco thanked all Department Heads and staff for their hard work and
dedication throughout the year.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tern Pacheco adjourned the Special City Council meeting at 6:13 p.m.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CIVIC
City Clerk
BLANCA PACHECO
Mayor
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Special Meeting — June 9, 2021 10