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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 01-28-03 - Regular Meeting0143 d ii MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL/COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING JANUARY 28, 2003 The City Council/Community Development Commission of the City of Downey held an adjourned regular meeting at 5:33 p.m., January 28, 2003, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor/Chairman Rick Trejo presiding. PRESENT: Council Members/Commissioners: Rick Trejo Kirk O. Cartozian Keith McCarthy Anne M. Bayer Meredith H. Perkins Mayor/Chairman Mayor Pro Tempore/Vice-Chairman ALSO PRESENT:Gerald M. Caton, City Manager/Executive Director Charles Vose, City Attorney Kathleen Midstokke, City Clerk/Secretary Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager Desi Alvarez, Director of Public Works John Finch, Police Chief Darrell George, Director of Community & Economic Development/ Assistant Executive Director Bonnie Kehoe, Acting Director of Community Services John Michicoff. Finance Director Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Director of Community Dev./City Planner Chris Birch, Personnel Director Thad Phillips, Acting City Librarian David Rodriguez, Project Manager (NASA Site) Vanessa Roj as, Special Projects Coordinator Christina Vogel, Assistant to the City Manager Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary INVOCATION AND FLAG SALUTE The Invocation was delivered by Pastor Glenn Kravig, Calvary Chapel of Downey. The Flag Salute was led by Girl Scout Troop No. 476. Mayor/Chairman Trejo introduced Eddie Tafoya, Field Deputy for Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard, who represents the cities of Downey and Bellflower, effective January 3, 2003 . APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS RELATED TO THE ACQUISITION OF PARCELS 1 AND 2 OF FORMER DOWNEY NASA PLANT Mr. George stated this is a historical night for the City in terms of the evolution and City Council/Community Dev. Comm. Minutes (adj.) 1/28/03 -1- 01433 1 APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS RELATED TO THE ACQUISITION OF PARCELS 1 AND 2 OF FORMER DOWNEY NASA PLANT Mr. George stated this is a historical night for the City in terms of the evolution and redevelopment of the former Downey NASA site. He narrated a Power Point presentation focusing on the acquisition of Parcels 1 and 2 of this property and on the execution of documents between the n = + T r r, v, J +L nT Tv, I + Al a + A + n n FAT rAn n Cn +L : a HAn AHH TTA A 4 AJ nAn An A4 A 4: Tran CAA \ T A a A &1.e9 in 9 General Services Administration (GSA), and International Risk Assumption Downey (IRAD) are vb++rbnlrhvl + LInk no abv 7: AV urAl +L m vrnbw:nvTn£ JA nbvuvut An + n is A : n + A ann + Al nun AL A n +L A FFu An fAn A AA A 4 Jan ion and State Landsin9 the United States Government to the City of Downey; the Quitclaim Deed; the Environmental Services Agreement (ESA); the Environmental Responsibility Assumption Agreement (EAA); the Detlaration of Covenants, Conditions and Environmental Restrictions (CC & R’s) and the Parcel 4 Release Agreement. He referred to planning and land use studies, which resulted in the partitioning of the property into a retail center, medical center, media film center, and park site, and he reviewed the development plan showing the layout of these various components. He also broke down the financial implications of the transfer as follows: $11.5 million for remediation contracts to clean the site of contamination; $6.7 million for the environmental insurance package; an additional $2.3 = 11 : An Chu n FI= = + n n 1 n n = = , AJ CF 1 : II : A f 4jn n On A un I O AT: nAH A jn : : HAHA 4 surance or costCO 9 Commission, for a total of $21.5 million dollars. He reviewed the IRAD agreement, noting IRAD will be the City’s partner for a number of years and will be on site regularly to maintain and administer all environmental insurance policies on the property. He referred to the two main vu An+ n n f +Ln nv r= unA + A 1 : ann u Ann vvrjA = nl AU A 4Ln TIA hI : A + in a + h T n n T= cap coverage, which covers all clean up costs and will kick in, if the cost runs over budget, and the Pollution and Remediation Legal Liability, which covers the cleanup of previously undetected contamination, as well as any potential third party liability claims, and not only covers Parcels 1 and 2 but also covers Parcels 3, 4, 5 and 6. He explained that the approval of the documents presented tonight kick off a chain of events, such as bringing the Kaiser Permanente transaction to the Council next month, followed by the retail transaction with Downey Landing the following month and anticipation of bringing the film studio transaction to the Council in April. He stated the ultimate development of the site will generate enough revenue to support this transaction and he responded to comments from the Council. Council Member Perkins commented he hoped the Governor will sign the documents quickly and will recognize the scope of this development for the City and the region. Mr. George responded that the circumstances this time are more favorable in terms of not having the State on the title and will present this in a much different light to obtain the Governor’s signature quickly. Ken Kumor of NASA Headquarters introduced David Hickens from the Johnson Space Center, who has been managing the existing cleanup on behalf of NASA, and mentioned Philip Nikolay, who represents Earth Tech, the government’s environmental contractor, who has physically been doing the cleanup. He pointed out, if the site is not completely cleaned up to the satisfaction of the water board, NASA retains liability. He mentioned meeting with the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (LARWQCB) this morning and advised they are fully aware of what is going on and are working with IRAD and their contractor on day-to-day cleanup. City Council/Community Dev. Comm. Minutes (adj.) 1/28/03 014338 Dave Hickens of the NASA/Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas, stated he initially came to Downey in 1994 to work on the cleanup of this property. He mentioned that 4,500 pounds of contaminants in the soil on the north end of Parcel 1 had been removed when the Covenant and Deferral Request (CDR) was submitted to the Governor on December 2001 and, as of December 18, 2002, this amount rose to 7,600 pounds. In response to Council Member McCarthy, he stated there are still spots that require additional assessment and the ground water will also need remediation, per the direction of the Water Board. Jim Biederman of the GSA stated they are very positive about this transaction and are dedicating many resources to it. He noted privatization of the cleanup was discussed to accelerate development and shorten the time to bring it back to productive use. He advised he met with Darrell George, David Rodriguez, and the Director of the RWQCB and it is now a matter of putting the documents together, submitting them to the Governor for signature, and closing the deal. He commended Darrell George and David Rodriguez for their work in this process. He also mentioned the GSA would like to submit this project for a Phoenix Award, an annual award given to outstanding Brownfields redevelopment projects across the country, and would like to work with the City on its nomination for this award in 2004. He also commended Congressman Steven Hom for his efforts in this matter and responded to comments from the Council Mikk Anderson, founding member of International Risk Group, owners of IRAD, the company responsible for clean up of the site, noted his company specializes in these complex transactions. He thanked the Mayor and Council for their patience and commended staff for moving the project along. Council Member McCarthy inquired as to the limits of liability for IRAD and Mr. Anderson advised the NASA liability is by federal statute, in that they are not allowed to release that liability. He referred to insurance policies that will exceed the budgeted $20.5 million if necessary and will add another $15 million for cleanup. He also noted there are policies aimed at the legal liability issues associated with cleanup on behalf of the City, IRAD, and the developers. Council Member McCarthy inquired what would happen if there was a claim over and above the stop loss policy and was informed, if the claim was associated with the cleanup, NASA would cover it. If it were related to an artifact of the cleanup, property damage, bodily injury, etc., a separate policy, with limits up to $20 million, would cover it. ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE FORM AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF DOCUMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE UNITED STATES AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND INTERNATIONAL RISK ASSUMPTION DOWNEY (IRAD) The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and introduce. City Council/Community Dev. Comm. Minutes (adj .) 1/28/03 -3- 0143 BB Council Member Cartozian commended staff and noted this is exciting for the City. He felt the agreements were well laid out and noted his excitement and support. Council Member McCarthy inquired if federal funds are available for Brownfields cleanups. Mr. George advised a few programs have been reviewed at the federal and State levels that are relatively small and involve a substantial application process, with an extremely competitive field. He noted staff has worked with the EDA (Economic Development Administration) on other types of grant funding the City may be fortunate to receive but not on any federal Brownfields money. He also suggested staffscrutinize the insurance policies with a fine tooth comb to make sure full coverage is included. Council Member Bayer thanked the various representatives for speaking to the Council today. Council Member Perkins requested the NASA representatives thank Jeff Sutton for his efforts in putting this project together and thanked the representatives present. He stated he looked forward to the City’s nomination for the Phoenix Award and noted how important this project is to the City and to the region. He urged the GSA and NASA to use their influence in Sacramento to obtain the Governor’s signature as soon as possible. Mayor Trejo noted the project will impact the City for many years and thanked NASA, GSA, and IRAD for attending tonight. He also thanked Darrell George, David Rodriguez, the City Manager and previous and present Councils for their work and diligence on the project, which will bring back important jobs to the City with its retail, health care, movie studio and museum components. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, mentioned concerns, such as possible contamination from a private solvent company, Spartan Lacquer, located on the south end of this property on Imperial Highway; and whether it is known for sure that the property will not qualify as a Superfund project. Mayor Trejo acknowledged personnel from Kaiser Permanente in the audience and stated he looks forward to working with them in the near future on their medical project for this site APPROVAL OF CLOSED SESSION MINUTES – JANUARY 14, 2003 It was moved by Council Member/Commissioner Cartozian, seconded by Council Member/- Commissioner McCarthy, and unanimously carried (5-0) to approve the Closed Session Minutes of January 14, 2003. CLOSED SESSION Mayor/Chairman Trejo announced the Council/Commission is recessing to Closed Session (6:33 p.m.) to discuss matters under the authority of the following Sections of the Government Code: A. SECTION 54957.6 – Conference with labor negotiator Lee Powell re direction for labor negotiations with the Firemen’s Association. City Council/Community Dev. Comm. Minutes (adj .) 1/28/03 -4- 01433 II B. SECTION 54957 – Public Employee Recruitment: Secretary to the City Council. The meeting reconvened in open session at 7:38 p.m. with all Council Members/- Commissioners present. There were no Closed Session actions to report. The meeting recessed at 7:39 p.m. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS The meeting reconvened for Oral Communications at 8:35 p.m. with all Council Members/- Commissioners present (see Oral Communications under the Regular City Council Meeting) and recessed at 8:43 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 10:06 p.m. with all Council Members/Commissioners present. ADJOURNMENT: 10:07 p.m. Kathleen L. Midstokke, City Clerk/Secretary 'Rick Trejo,Mayor/Chairman h:\cclerk\sconte\MINS-ADJ-01 -28-03 City Council/Community Dev. Comm. Minutes (adj .) 1/28/03 -5- MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY JANUARY 28, 2003 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Certificate of Appointment to Wendy Welt, Handicapped Appeals Board Certificates of Appointment for District 4 Res. #6629, amending the City’s General Plan land use diagram for properties at 8000 Telegraph Rd., 8014 Telegraph Rd., and 8434 Tweedy Lane (GPA 02-77)Adopted 3 Ord. approving Zone Change 02-81 for properties at 8000 Telegraph Rd., 8014 Telegraph Rd. & 8434 Tweedy Ln.Introduced 3 4 4 Removal of Items from Consent Calendar Council Minutes: Adj. & Reg. Mtgs. 01/14/03 Approved Cash Contract #626 – heating, ventilation and air conditioning duct cleaning & system refurbishing: Award contract to Air Management Ind.Approved 4 Warrants Issued: 182689-183168; Wire Nos. 182, 30000503-5 10, $4,527.355.96 Approved 4 Bellflower Bl. improvements proj . agreement for relocation of Southern Calif. Edison facilities: Auth. the City Mgr. to execute an ag. w/So. Calif. Edison for replacement of overhead lines with underground electrical facilities along the west side ofBellflower Bl., as part ofBellflower Bl. improvement proj .Approved 4 ELLI grant – request to carry forward unexpected funds: Approp. ELLI (English language & literacy intensive) grant funds Approved 4 Fifth amend. to License Ag. w/Rio Hondo Golf Club food and beverage license for services & suspension of rent payment during new clubhouse construction: Approve ag. w/Joan Wynne during construction Approved 4 PAGE 1 OF 4 COUNCIL MINUTES, JANUARY 14, 2003 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Res. #6630, approv. the appoint. of Dee Bacus to Emergency Preparedness Committee, Dist. 1 Adopted 5 Res. #6631, approv. the appoint. of Mark Rand to Recreation & Community Services Comm., Dist. 5 Adopted 5 Res. #6632, restricting the parking of vehicles over 6 ft. in height on the east side of Downey Ave., between Iowa St. & the Union Pacific Railroad Adopted 5 6 Ord. amend. Article IX, Sections 9148.08 and 9148.10 re Christmas lights and holiday decorations Introduced, as amended Res. #6634, supporting the continued operation of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center with its current mission and services Adopted 8 8 Speakers re the Police pursuit that resulted in the death of (3onzalo Martinez and related issues Federal Emergency Management Agency grant: Appropriate $86,880 from the Equipment Fund and $202,720 in grant funds for the purchase of a rescue vehicle for use by the Fire Dept.Approved 10 Cash Contract #636-A – Rio Hondo Golf Clubhouse Modernization asbestos & lead abatement: Reject all bids received & auth. the Dir. of Pub. \Us. to negotiate an informal contract Approved 10 11 2003-2004 Community Development Block Grant & HOME Investment Partnership Grant Set hrg. 7:30 p.m. 2/1 1/03 Extension of agreement w/Lehman English Kelly and O'Keefe for general advocacy services in Sacramento : Matter was tabled & Council Subcommittee was set up w/Council Members Perkins and McCarthy Tabled 13 Res. #6633, urging the California Legislature to reject the Governor’s proposed shift of local vehicle license fee revenues and to honor the 1998 cornmitment to restore the vehicle license fees Adopted 13 PAGE 2 OF 4 COUNCIL MINUTES, JANUARY 14, 2003 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Cn. McCarthy re possible closure of Rancho Los Amigos Hospital & L.A. Bd. of Supv. hearing 14 14Cn. McCarthy re recall election in City of South Gate Cn. McCarthy announced Downey Chamber of Commerce will celebrate 100th Anniversary Saturday 14 Cn. McCarthy mentioned attending the Downey Civic Theatre to hear the Downey Symphony 14 Cn. Canozian re attending a neighborhood preservation program on Rose St.14 Cn. Cartozian advised the Street Sweeping Subcommittee had nothing to report yet 14 14Cn. Cartozian re Martin Luther King Day holiday last wk. Cn. Bayer re ltr. commending the Police Dept. for finding a citizen with Alzheimer’s disease who had wandered off 14 Cn. Bayer re letter from the City of Santa Fe Springs commending the Downey Fire Dept. for assisting in Malibu fire on January 6th 15 Cn. Perkins ref to Community Development Block Grant funds used to paint homes for low income households & read ltr. of thanks from resident 15 Cn. Perkins re a ltr. commending Police Officer Kurtz for his assistance with a family experiencing car problems 15 Cn. Perkins congratulated Mayor Trejo for approving the contracts that will lead to the development of the former Boeing property & complimented staff 15 Mayor Trej o credited the work of past Councils & the present Council for the purchase and development of the former NASA property 15 PAGE 3 OF 4 >P---. COUNCIL MINUTES, JANUARY 14, 2003 TABLE OF MINUTE ACTIONS (CONTINUED) SUBJECT ACTION PAGE NO. Mayor Trejo re attending the L. A. County Bd. of Supv. mtg. today re Rancho Los Amigos Hospital 15 Mayor Trejo re problems with graffiti brought to his attention & req. mtg. w/Police Dept.15 Adjourned in memory of John Ritchie, longtime Downey resident; & Bernie Norris, husband of Carol Norris, Secretary for the Public Works, Maintenance Services Division 15 15Meeting adjourned to 6:30 p.m., February 11, 2003 H:\cclerk\sconte\tabl-01 -28-03 PAGE 4 OF 4 014331 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY JANUARY 28, 2003 The City Council of the City of Downey held a regular meeting at 7:41 p.m., January 28, 2003, in the Council Chamber of the Downey City Hall, Mayor Rick Trejo presiding. PRESENT :Council Members: Rick Trejo Kirk O. Cartozian Keith McCarthy Anne M. Bayer Meredith H. Perkins Mayor Mayor Pro Tem ALSO PRESENT:Gerald M. Caton, City Manager Charles Vose, City Attorney Kathleen Midstokke, City Clerk Lee Powell, Assistant City Manager Desi Alvarez, Director of Public Works John Finch, Police Chief Darrell George, Director of Community/Economic Development Bonnie Kehoe, Acting Director of Community S6rvices John Michicoff, Director of Finance Ron Yoshiki, Asst. Director of Community Dev./City Planner Thad Phillips, Acting City Librarian Chuck Seely, Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Ed Velasco, Manager of Housing Christina Vogel, Assistant to the City Manager Shirley Conte, Executive Secretary PRESENTATIONS Council Member Cartozian presented to Wendy Welt a Certificate of Appointment for her appointment to the Handicapped Appeals Board. He noted she also serves on the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities where she has been the Chair and Vice-Chair. Council Member Bayer, District 4, presented Certificates of Appointments to: Doris Patterson, Downey Public Facilities Financing Corporation Linda Malme, Emergency Preparedness Commission Terry Lambros, Personnel Advisory Board Colin Clarke, Water Advisory Board Craig Schwerdt, Recreation and Community Services Commission Janice Allen, reappointment to the Library Advisory Board (Lee Ann Sears, Emergency Preparedness Commission, was presented with her certificate later in the meeting. See Page 10.) Council Minutes 1/28/03 -6- 01439: HEARINGS Mayor Trejo opened the public hearing on GENERAT I PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA) NO. 02-77/ZONE CHANGE (ZC) 02-81 FOR PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 8000 TELEGRAPH ROAD, 8014 TELEGRAPH ROAD AND 8434 TWEEDY LANE. Ms. Midstokke affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCarthy and so ordered to receive and file. There was no correspondence received regarding this matter. Mr. Yoshiki narrated a Power Point program of the GPA and ZC and noted staff views this as a clean up action. He stated the general plan currently shows the designation for the subject properties as office. The recommendation is to change this land use classification to reflect residential use. He noted the current zoning designation is C-2 (General Commercial) and the application is to rezone to R-3-0 (Medium Density Multiple Family Residential, Ownership). He pointed out there are currently residential developments on two of the properties and the other property was formerly occupied by the Fireside Restaurant, which has been vacant for some time. He advised it is staffs recommendation to amend the General Plan, rolling back the office designation to residential and rezoning the property from commercial to residential. He responded to comments from the Council. Mayor Trejo asked if anyone present wished to speak in favor of the General Plan amendment and Zone Change. Robert Reed, 528 14th Street, Huntington Beach, representing Sea Ridge Incorporated, the proposed developer of the condominium project. He noted the site has been vacant for a number of years and the adjacent apartment buildings have not been redeveloped to the office designation, as intended in 1992. He referred to General Plan Policy No. 1.1, which states the City shall encourage owner-occupied housing developments, and noted this is the direction of his proposal. Allen Sedi (sp. ?), Ramco Investments, 9061 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, owners of the Seville Apartments at 8000 Telegraph Road, mentioned speaking with Senior Planner, Jay Jarrin, about this proposal and stated they have no problem with it. He noted he also met with Mr. Ferguson and support his application. Frederick Shesal (sp. ?), General Partner ofEffets (sp. ?) Associates, 8434 Tweedy Lane, the third property involved, stated he supported the general plan amendment and new zoning. Joseph Domico, under special power of attorney for the Giovinetti family, mentioned the Giovinetti’s have tried to market the property over the years and ran into quite a few stumbling blocks. He stated he felt switching the property from commercial to residential use makes more sense Mayor Trejo asked if anyone wished to speak in opposition of the GPA/ZC. There being no flrrther speakers, it was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and so ordered to close the Public Hearing. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -2- al 4 JS.IRESOLUTION NO. 6629 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE CITY’S GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DIAGRAM CHANGING THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FOR THREE (3) PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 8000 TELEGRAPH ROAD, 8014 TELEGRAPH ROAD AND 8434 TWEEDY LANE FROM “OFFICE” TO “MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL” (GENERAT, PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 02-77) The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council IV[ember Cartozian, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and adopt. Council IV[ember Cartozian felt this is a much-needed clean up item, stating he felt R-3-0 was the best way to clean up commercial, residential and parking buffer on a busy street and would allow for cars to pull in and park on the premises without opening directly up to Telegraph Road. Council Member McCarthy felt this was a straightforward solution to challenges for the property owner and for the City in creating more affordable housing units. Council Member Bayer noted her position would be reflected in her vote. Council Member Perkins mentioned he was on the Planning Commission when an attempt was made to reopen the Fireside North on Telegraph Road and noted many people were up in arms throughout the community. He stated the Planning Commission at that time applied many restrictions and the project did not proceed. He noted R-3-0 means the units will be owner-occupied and felt this was the best use for the properties. Mayor Trejo was also in support of the project, stating he felt it would enhance property values in the area. ORDINANCE AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING THE CITY’S COMPREHENSIVE ZONING MAP CHANGING THE ZONING FOR THREE (3) PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 8000 TELEGRAPH ROAD, 8014 TELEGRAPH ROAD AND 8434 TWEEDY LANE FROM C-2 AND P-B (GENERAL COMMERCIAL AND PARKING BUFFER) AND R-1, 5000 (SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) TO R-3-0 (MEDIUM DENSITY MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL-OWNERSHIP) (ZONE CHANGE NO. 02-81) The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and introduce. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -3- „ 01433'! CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS FOR REMOVAL Agenda Items 5. CASH CONTRACT NO. 636-A – RIO HONDO GOLF CLUBHOUSE MODERNIZATION ASBESTOS AND LEAD ABATEMENT, 10, 2003-2004 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT, and 15, LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES RESOLUTION – RESTORATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE FEES, were removed at the request of Council Member Cartozian. Agenda Item 11, EXTENSION OF AGREEMENT WITH LEHMAN ENGLISH KELLY AND O’KEEFE FOR GENERAL ADVOCACY SERVICES IN SACRAMENTO, was removed at the request of Council Member Perkins. CONSENT CALENDAR It was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and unanimously carried (5-0) to waive further reading of the Resolutions and approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar as recommended: COUNCIL MINUTES: ADJOURNED AND REGULAR MEETINGS, JANUARY 14, 2003 : Approve. CASH CONTRACT NO. 626 – HEATING. VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) DUCT CLEANING AND SYSTEM REFURBISHING (ACCOUNT NO. 40-13964): Award Cash Contract No. 626, totaling $44,400 to Air Management Industries for HVAC duct cleaning and system refurbishing at Downey City Hall, Public Library and Community Theatre; and appropriate funding in the amount of $60,000 from the Civic Center Fund: Approve. WARRANTS ISSUED: NO. 182689 – 183168; WIRE NUMBERS 182, 30000503-510, $4,527,355.96: Approve. BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT AGREEMENT FOR RELOCATION OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON (SCE) FACILITIES: Authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with Southern California Edison for the replacement of overhead lines with underground electrical facilities along the west side of Bellflower Boulevard, as part of the Bellflo\ver Boulevard Improvements Project, in an amount not to exceed $47,924: Approve. ELLI GRANT – REQUEST TO CARRY FORWARD UNEXPECTED FUNDS: Appropriate $15,243 of ELLI (English Language and Literacy Intensive) Grant funds: Approve. FIFTH AMENDMENT TO LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH RIO HONDO GOLF CLUB FOOD AND BEVERAGE LICENSEE FOR SERVICES AND SUSPENSION OF RENT PAYMENT DURING NEW CLUBHOUSE CONSTRUCTION: Approve agreement with Joan Wynne that temporarily suspends rent payments to City and ensures continued food and beverage services during construction: Approve. Council IVlinutes 1/28/03 -4- 014335 RESOLUTION NO. 6630 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF DEE BACUS TO THE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COMMITTEE, COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 RESOLUTION NO. 6631 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF MARK RAND TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION, COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 RESOLUTION NO. 6632 (ADOPT) A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY RESTRICTING PARKING OF VEHICLES OVER SIX FEET IN HEIGHT ON THE EAST SIDE OF DOWNEY AVENUE, BETWEEN IOWA STREET AND THE UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD ORDINANCES ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING ARTICLE IX, SECTIONS 9148.08 AND 9148.10 REGARDING CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AND HOLIDAY DECORATIONS Chief Finch explained the Council, at its last meeting, requested staff review language in the City’s current Ordinance regulating residential Christmas light displays to make it consistent with actual enforcement, which he noted consists of sending letters out to residents on February 1. He advised he met with Planning Division staff, who were in concurrence with the language recommendation. Council Member McCarthy commended staff for bringing this forward quickly and noted it received an amazing amount of press for what he considered a relatively minor item. He read language korn Section 2 of the Ordinance, which he felt was redundant. Mr. Vose advised the wording “thirty (30) consecutive calendar days and“ was to be stricken from the Ordinance and it should read “for a period not exceeding a maximum of sixty (60) cumulative days per calendar year. Council Member McCarthy stated he felt if sixty (60) days is stated, “a maximum of ’ could be stricken, to which the City Attorney agreed. The language would then read “for a period not exceeding sixty (60) cumulative days per calendar year.” Council Minutes 1/28/03 -5- O 1 4 3 ] b Council Member Cartozian inquired as to how long the Ordinance has been in the Downey Municipal Code and was informed a long time. He requested clarification of the wording between Section 1 and Section 2, asking whether it would conflict in any way. Chief Finch advised he did not see a conflict and noted it would depend on when Thanksgiving fell but advised it can never exceed 60 days. Mr. Vose pointed out, if someone displays decorations at Thmrksgiving, they must take them down within 60 days after that time. If they put the decorations up on December 10, they must be down before February 1. Council Member Cartozian clarified that all displays must be down by February 1, even if they have not exceed 60 days. Council Member Perkins felt this was a law that would be on the books but would never be enforced, as no one checks the date each resident puts up their Christmas displays or takes them down. Mayor Trejo concurred with Council Member Perkins and felt the Ordinance would be hard to enforce, but stated he will support it. The Ordinance was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and introduce, with the amendment noted to the language in Section 2 G). RESOLUTIONS: None ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS RANCHO LOS AMIGOS NATIONAL REHABILITATION CENTER Ms. Vogel advised the subject Resolution, if approved, will be sent to the County in support of the continued operation of Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center. She explained the County took action in October to eliminate County funding to Rancho Los Amigos Hospital. She noted the County is facing a major health budget deficit and felt closing Rancho would provide a major cost saving. She noted an independent study commissioned by the California Community Foundation, which looked at various alternatives to keep Rancho opened, included a public health authority or the creation of a non-profit governance model. She noted Mayor Trejo testified in support of keeping Rancho opened and advised the hearing was continued to delay the decision for 60 to 70 days, which she felt was a sign of hope. Council Member Cartozian inquired if the $71 million to $14.7 million funding under the health authority or non-profit model would still be available, if alternatives mentioned were pursued. Ms. Vogel advised the County stated they cannot afford to continue the level of funding previously provided to Rancho and looked at providing up to $14 million. She noted the study showed Rancho could not survive on the $14 million subsidy but did not know if other studies looked into the subsidy from the County. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -6- 01439 ’; Council Member McCarthy advised he attended the hearing with other community members, such as Diane Boggs, Doris Patterson, Pat Patterson, and others and noted it was a powerful event, with many clients of Rancho speaking. He stated Supervisor Knabe is doing everything he can to save Rancho and he felt the other Supervisors’ eyes, ears and hearts were open when listening to the testimonies presented. He referred to the property on the south side of Imperial Highway, advising it is also Rancho property that is unused by the hospital and felt it could be a source of revenue to benefit the hospital. He was in support of the Resolution. Council Member Bayer stated she is in support of the Resolution. Council Member Perkins mentioned Rancho is the City’s largest employer and does outstanding work. He also referred to the Rancho property on the south side of Imperial Highway, noting the County originally sold the idea of developing it into an industrial park to support Rancho and questioned where the money has gone. He felt it would be a tremendous loss if Rancho is closed and was glad to see the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tempore supporting this issue. Council Member Cartozian encouraged the public to contact their State officials and the other Los Angeles County Supervisors, pointing out that Supervisor Knabe, Downey’s Supervisor, is in support of keeping Rancho open. Doris Patterson, 10524 Lesterford Avenue, thanked the Mayor and Council Member McCarthy for attending the hearing today. She felt the facility can be saved through innovation and was delighted to see the Council in unanimous support. John Croshaw, 7524 Quinn Street, mentioned he volunteers at Rancho once a month and recapped a miracle he witnessed wherein he gave a man in a comatose condition from a gunshot wound to the head a hair cut while he was comatose and then two months later the man was able to talk and mentioned being aware that he had given him the haircut. Richard Pridham, 10402 Bellman, stated the Rancho facility has been outstanding since the time polio was a plague and continues to do marvelous things. He mentioned various options being considered but felt the public is lacking direction on what it can actively do to promote keeping the facility open. Wendy Welt, 7823 4th Place, stated she was happy to hear the Council is in support of keeping Rancho Los Amigos Hospital open. She mentioned many people attend the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities meetings asking them to do something and would appreciate any feedback to take back to this commission. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, mentioned his experiences with Rancho and stated the employees are compassionate and caring and do not discriminate against anyone. Mayor Trejo commended Ms. Vogel for taking the lead on this issue and for providing the Council with needed information for its subcommittee and for setting up meetings with elected representatives. He advised he is a health care provider and understands the impact closing Rancho would have on other hospitals in the area who are not capable of providing the services Rancho does and it would put a tremendous burden on them. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -7- 01433 's RESOLUTION NO. 6634 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY SUPPORTING THE CONTINUED OPERATION OF RANCHO LOS AMIGOS NATIONAL REHABILITATION CENTER WITH ITS CURRENT MISSION AND SERVICES The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and unanimously carried to waive further reading and adopt. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS The following people spoke regarding the Police pursuit that resulted in the death of Gonzalo Martinez and related issues. Cheno Romero, Bell Gardens, Norma Martinez, 9525 Ardine Street, Downey, ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS (Cont.) FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA) GRANT Assistant Chie£7Fire Marshal Seely advised that FEMA offers grants through the United States Fire Administration every year for the purpose of increasing firefighter safety and fund unique programs to enhance efficiency at the local level. He stated the Downey Fire Department applied for a grant, was successful in obtaining it, and is now requesting the matching funds. He noted the grant will increase services to the community by moving a broader cross-section of equipment and personnel to high-risk incidents, explaining the apparatus proposed will be sent to support a rapid intervention team at all structure fire responses within the City; will respond to greater alarm fires within Area E; will respond to all vehicle collisions; will respond to hazardous materials incidents; and will also assist in large-scale decontamination should there be a large hazardous materials release or weapons of mass-destruction incident. He advised the total cost for this rescue vehicle is $289,600 and the Federal Government, through the Fire Act grant, is providing $202,720, with the Council requested to approve $86,880 from the Equipment Replacement Fund. Council Member Cartozian inquired about the vehicle and asked if it was a truck or was similar to the other two vehicles purchased last year. Assistant Chief Seely advised the vehicle is a commercial chassis, a freight liner or Harvester International crew cab, with the box to be made by Pearce Manufacturing, Spartan, or one of the companies who make large box-like storage containers for the back of roll-up doors and such. It is unique equipment to large physical rescue scenarios with hydraulic jacks, specialized saws, and a portable compressor system to refill air bottles in the field. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -8- 01433 1 1 Council Member Cartozian inquired if the current 1985 GMC vehicle is the only vehicle of this type used now and was informed it was a surplus truck purchased from Southern California Edison that the Fire Department built to carry certain pieces of equipment for an urban search and rescue type of scenario, such as after earthquakes, floods, etc. It was noted the new vehicle will be used on a daily basis to move more staff and a broader cross-section of specialized equipment to key emergencIes . Council Member Cartozian encouraged the department to make the recommendation to the Council that the obsolete vehicle possibly be donated to one of the City’s Sister Cities, as has been done in the past. Council Member McCarthy inquired if the vehicle is four-wheel drive and was informed it is not, as most incident scenarios will not necessitate a four-wheel drive system and this instead will provide a platform for the decontamination and air supply system and will allow the crews to stay on scene longer. It was noted the engine is diesel. Lennie Whittington, 8542 Manatee Street, inquired if the vehicle will be automatic or standard shift and if it will be high off the ground or standard height. He also asked if the $3,600 includes the crew to drive the vehicle back to Downey and how this would compare to the cost to have it shipped back Mr. Caton thanked the Fire Department for applying for the grant, which will replace a vehicle that is nearly 18 years old. He pointed out the recommendation by staff is basically whether or not the Council will accept the grant and the City’s match involved. Assistant Chief Seely advised the vehicle will probably be diesel with an automatic transmission and a transmission breaking system, which he noted adds to safety while it is used during emergency responses. He stated the Purchasing Department will probably oversee a bid process to see which manufacturer the City chooses. Council Member Perkins referred to the two previous engines purchased after he came on the Council, which were built out of State, and stated he considers it an award for firemen who do an outstanding job to be able to go back and pick up the vehicles and it gives them an opportunity to check out the vehicles on the way back and take care of any issues found. Mayor Trej o noted there is a need for this type of vehicle with present State land security issues and commended the Fire Department for obtaining the grant. He suggested showcasing the vehicle to the public and also referred to the suggestion by Council Member Cartozian to donate the current vehicle to the City’s Sister Cities. He asked if the current vehicle would be needed as a back up vehicle. Council Member Perkins suggested the vehicle could be donated to a volunteer Fire Department in the United States and referred to recent laws passed releasing the City’s liability in these cases, which is why previous vehicles were donated to cities in Mexico, etc. He urged the Fire Department to look in the United States first. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -9- 014 'IOt! Assistant Fire Chief Seely responded that the two vehicles in question, old and new, are different from one another. He advised the current vehicle has a fairly exotic hydraulic system and did not know how well it could be utilized by another department who did not have the requisite hydraulic tools. He noted the Fire Chief had considered utilizing it for the Fire Department’s Explorer Program, a community college program, or a volunteer fire department. It was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and unanimously carried (5-0) to appropriate $86,880 from the Equipment Fund and $202,720 in grant funds for the purchase of a rescue vehicle for use by the Fire Department. Council Member Bayer apologized for not spotting one of her new appointees in the audience earlier and presented a Certificate of Appointment to Lee Ann Sears, Emergency Preparedness Commission, District 4. OTHER BUSINESS - Consent Calendar - Items removed by Council Approval CASH CONTRACT NO. 636-A – RIO HONDO GOLF CLUBHOUSE MODERNIZATION ASBESTOS AND LEAD ABATEMENT (ACCOUNT NO. 52-17224) Council Member Cartozian referred to staffs recommendation to reject all bids and requested an explanation of the process of working with the low bidder with an informal contract. He asked if this still gives the City the ability to negotiate for a lower price and also what changes are involved. Mr. Alvarez explained the reason for negotiating the contract is that staff feels it can obtain a contract lower than $7,800 and by utilizing an informal bid process, the requirement for posting of a bid bond is waived. He noted service contracts under $15,000 normally do not have to be brought to the Council and advised this contract was originally put out to bid in two phases, with Phase I starting in a couple of weeks and Phase II not taking place for another year. He noted each phase is a relatively small amount and felt it would be more expeditious to do it informally. He also mentioned there were some bid irregularities and the original low bidder was actually not the low bidder. It was moved by Council Member McCarthy, seconded by Council Member Cartozian, and unanimously carried to reject all bids received for asbestos and lead abatement at the Rio Hondo Golf Club under Cash Contract No. 636-A, and authorize the Director of Public Works to negotiate an informal contract. Prior to the vote, Council Member Perkins stated the Charter allows the City Manager to go up to $15,000 without going out to bid but he requested that anything regarding construction on this major project be brought to the Council and not approved by the City Manager. Mr. Caton requested clarification as to whether Council Member Perkins was requesting this item be on the next Agenda. Council Member McCarthy restated the motion to reject all bids and authorize the director of Public Works to negotiate a contract and requested clarification as to whether this meant it would not come back to the Council and the response was it would not come back. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -10- 014401 Council Member Perkins explained he was asking that Rrture bids be approved by the Council but was in support of the recommendation for Phase I. Mayor Trejo commented that the subcommittee and staff can make sure construction costs are down and stated what is before the Council is rejecting all bids received and he suggested going ahead with recommendation. Mr. Vose clarified that Council Member Perkins is referring to future phases. 2003-2004 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT Council Member Cartozian noted the last paragraph on the staff report reads the second hearing is scheduled for the Council Meeting of May 14 and noted this should read May 13. He also commented that CDBG funds work under a credit zone ratio, with some areas receiving a one-to-one credit and others not receiving as much. It was moved by Council Member Cartozian, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and unanimously carried (5-0) to schedule a public hearing for the meeting of February 11, 2003, for the purpose of receiving public comment and project suggestions for next year’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnership Grant (HOME) programs. EXTENSION OF AGREEMENT WITH LEHMAN ENGLISH KELLY AND O'KEEFE FOR GENERAL ADVOCACY SERVICES IN SACRAMENTO It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Cartozian to reject this agreement. (See amended motion below.) Mr. Alvarez advised this is an extension of the agreement with Lehman English and Associates for advocacy services in Sacramento and noted Rick Lehman has been acting in the capacity of the City’s advocate in Sacramento for the last several years. He stated Mr. Lehman has been instrumental in supporting the City’s efforts in various legislative activities, many of which involved issues with the Water Replenishment District, dealing with various State agencies and supporting activities and grant applications through Sacramento. In addition, he has also provided general advocacy support to other City departments and has recently been active in legislative discussions regarding Rancho Los Amigos Hospital and the budget situation affecting local governments throughout California. He also noted the monthly retainer fee is $1,500 per month less. Council Member McCarthy stated he is pleased to see the lower rate and inquired what consultant the City used prior to Lehmann English. Mr. Caton advised that many years ago the CitY used Joe (Jonsalvez but ended his services in the early 90's due to City budget problems. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -11- 01440 ) U Council Member Perkins inquired as to the various activities Mr. Lehman has assisted the City with and Mr. Alvarez advised Mr. Lehman has helped other City departments recently but primarily worked with Public Works. He inquired if Mr. Alvarez was authorized to approve expenses for this agreement and Mr. Alvarez advised he does approve the monthly statements. He noted the City has increased its dues with the League of California Cities, who are fighting for the City in Sacramento, and have also joined a coalition with 47 other cities to help with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System requirements. He felt the City should not continue with this contract. Mayor Trejo stated he felt there was a reason to establish a dialogue with the City’s lobbyists in Sacramento and mentioned having two opportunities to meet with Mr. Lehman in Sacramento and felt he provided the service needed to bring the City’s concerns to its elected officials. He felt the City needs to go ahead with the proposal as recommended. Council Member McCarthy stated he appreciated Council Member Perkins ’ sentiments and mentioned having the opportunity to meet Mr. Lehman when the City was dealing with issues related to the Water Replenishment District. He felt it was critical the City have someone representing it in Sacramento, noting cities are currently under siege by the State legislature and its budget cuts. Council Member Cartozian concurred with the sentiments of Council Member Perkins and referred to the omission of vehicle license fees from the City’s budget, which is an 8.6 percent reduction or $4.4 million. He mentioned the figures presented and stated he did not know how well this service is working. He did not think many cities had their own water lobbyist and felt consolidated funding or group memberships should be utilized and supported the motion to not to extend the contract. Council Member Bayer stated she and Mayor Trejo traveled to Sacramento to attend the Mayors and Council Members training session and visited with Mr. Lehman after hours to discuss the NASA property and the Rancho Los Amigos issue. She noted they also met with Ron Calderon regarding the Rancho closure. She felt the City needs a lobbyist on its side in Sacramento. She was in favor of continuing the contract. Mayor Trejo mentioned Mr. Lehman also had an associate with experience in the health care industry, which was very advantageous to the City with the Rancho issue. Council Member Perkins reiterated that the $6,000 a month is only a monthly retainer and does not include expenses. He referred to Exhibit “B“ Compensation, stating the first sentence reads the consultant shall be paid $7,500 a month and not the $6,000 just reported by staff. He urged the Council to evaluate the information presented and vote to deny this contract. Mr. Caton mentioned his 28 years of experience in City government and felt it was possible this contract would be approved on a 3-2 vote. He asked the Council not approve the contract this way, as he felt it was important that the City have a Sacramento lobbyist but wanted a lobbyist the entire Council could support. He suggested tabling the matter to allow another lobbyist to come on board, which may take another Council subcommittee to review it. Mr. Vose advised the Council could make an amended or substitute motion. Council Minutes 1/28/03 0144 til Council Member Perkins withdrew his previous motion, to which Council Member Cartozian agreed. Mr. Caton suggested the Mayor assign a Council subcommittee to research a new consultant in Sacramento. He also noted the present contract terminated on January 11 and no action is necessary to end it. He suggested paying the consultant for the few extra days, to which the Council agreed After discussion among the Council, it was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member Cartozian and unanimously carried to table this matter and set up a temporary subcommittee with Council Members Perkins and McCarthy to review the issue. LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES RESOLUTION – RESTORATION OF MOTOR VEHICLE FEES (VLF) Council Member Cartozian advised this is a call to the public to understand the position the Council is in. He noted the direction the Governor appears to be going is to rescind funding to local governments for VLF’s, which may result in a shortfall of $4.4 million for the year, or 8.6 percent of the budget. He advised the City Manager and staff have researched this possibility and know how it will impact the City. He supported adopting the Resolution to continue to put pressure on the legislature and on Assembly Members Calderon and Firebaugh and State Senator Betty Karnette. RESOLUTION NO. 6633 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY URGING THE CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE TO REJECT THE GOVERNOR'S PROPOSED SHIFT OF LOCAL VLF REVENUES AND TO HONOR THE 1998 COMMITMENT TO RESTORE THE VLF The Resolution was read by title only. It was moved by Council Member Cartozian, seconded by Council Member Perkins, and carried by the following vote to adopt. AYES 4 ABSTAnq I Council Members: Cartozian, Perkins, Bayer, Trejo Council Members: McCarthy It was moved by Council Member Perkins, seconded by Council Member McCarthy, and unanimously carried to waive further reading. Council Member McCarthy mentioned owning several personal vehicles and having a business with several vehicles and did not support dumping the VLF on consumers. He stated he understands the challenge the City faces but felt it was a backward way of funding government. He noted the State said it would backnll the money when VLF’s were reduced but then rescinded that promise. He advised he will abstain on voting on the Resolution. Richard Pridham, 10402 Bellman Avenue, questioned if he was right in his understanding that the City wants to retain what is presently has, which he was in favor of and Mr. Caton advised the City wants to retain what it had in 1999, before it was changed. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -13- 01440, Mr. Caton noted the motor vehicle in lieu fee has been collected since 1935 and is the way cities have always done their streets and roads. He noted it is the only tax in California that is Constitutionally protected for local governments. He explained that in 1999-2000 the one tax Sacramento wanted to cut was the VLF that went to local governments, with the promise the State would backfill this tax from their General Fund and there was a trigger in case they could not backfill the money that the tax would rise back to where it had been before. Now the State’s General Fund is $34 billion dollars in the red and a month ago the Governor stated he would raise the vehicle license and now is saying he will not raise it. He stated the State knew when the tax was reduced that they had an obligation, if needed, to raise it back up, but are now saying cities have to absorb the decrease. Mayor Trejo stated he supported the Resolution and felt the City needs to exhaust everything possible to protect it, as it will be in crisis if it does not happen. OTHER BUSINESS - Council Members Council Member McCarthy mentioned attending the hearing by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors regarding the possible closure of Rancho Los Amigos Hospital. Council Member McCarthy commented on the recall election today in the neighboring City of South Gate and hoped it would be successful and South Gate could get their house in order. Council Member McCarthy announced the Downey Chamber of Commerce will hold a luncheon on Friday celebrating its 100th year in existence and he congratulated them. Council Member McCarthy mentioned attending the Downey Civic Theatre on Saturday night to hear the Downey Symphony, which he stated was an amazing performance. Council Member Cartozian mentioned attending a Neighborhood Preservation program on Rose Street. He commended Code Enforcement, the Police Department and Mark Galvan who heads the Neighborhood Preservation program for making this a successful event and applauded Mayor Trejo for making neighborhood preservation a major area of support under his term. Council Member Cartozian advised the Street Sweeping Subcommittee had nothing to report yet and was still collecting information from Public Works. He noted he was not criticizing the bid process but felt the Council needs as much information as possible to consider. Council Member Cartozian mentioned the schools were closed last week on Monday for Martin Luther King Day and noted discussing the importance of individuals who pushed for civil rights for all Americans and others around the world. He felt Mr. King did this in a way that all people could understand and noted his students will be studying civil rights movements as part of the State of California curriculum in the second semester. Council Member Bayer stated she received a letter from a woman commending the Police Department for finding her husband, who has Alzheimer’s disease and had walked away, within 15 minutes of being notified. She mentioned working with Alzheimer’s patients before and thanked the Police Department for finding him so quickly. Council Minutes 1/28/03 -14- O 1 4 4 o ,:i Council Member Bayer mentioned receiving a letter from the City of Santa Fe Springs commending the Downey Fire Department for assisting in the Malibu fire on January 6. She referred to a traffic accident that happened in Malibu involving two Police Officers that resulted in serious injuries to both and noted the Downey paramedic team assisted in this incident. Council Member Perkins referred to Community Development Block Grant funds, which are used to paint homes for low income households, and read a letter from a resident thanking City staff for painting her home. Council Member Perkins also mentioned receiving a letter commending Police Officer Kurtz for his assistance when this gentleman and his daughter experienced car problems at the intersection ofBellflower Boulevard and Stewart and Gray Road. He commended the Police Department for the work they do for the City. Council Member Perkins congratulated Mayor Trej o for approving six contracts that will eventually lead to the development of the former Boeing property. He also complimented Darrell George, his staff, and NASA for their work in this endeavor. Mayor Trejo credited the work of past Council Members and the current Council who worked so hard to purchase and develop the former NASA property. Mayor Trejo mentioned attending the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors meeting today regarding Rancho Los Amigos Hospital and the support from patients and the City. He thanked Christina Vogel for her time and effort on this matter. Mayor Trejo stated he felt there was a problem with more graffiti appearing in the City, especially on the south side, and noted it has been brought to his attention and he would like to meet with the Police Department to discuss the current procedures being utilized. OTHER BUSINESS - Staff Members: None ADJOURNIVIENT: 10:07 p.m. The meeting adjourned in memory of John Ritchie, longtime Downey resident; and Bernie Norris, husband of Carol Norris, Secretary for the Public Works, Maintenance Services Division, to 6:30 p.m., February 11, 2003, in the Council Chamber of Downey City Hall. gagMy Kathleen L. Midstokke, City Clerk RicF+r£o Mayor H:\CCLERK\SCONTE\MINUTES\MIN-CC-01 -28-03 Council Minutes 1/28/03 -15-