HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/2/1993 Minutes - Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MARCH 2, 1993
1. CLOSED SESSION: 4:00 p.m.
Litigation - Government Code 54956.9
Personnel - Government Code 54957.6
No reportable action taken.
2. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Miller called the meeting to
order at 6:06 p.m. in the AQMD Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley
Dr., Diamond Bar, California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The audience was lead in the Pledge
of Allegiance by M/Miller.
INVOCATION: The Invocation was given by Reverend
John Ortberg, Horizons Community Church.
ROLL CALL: Mayor Miller, Mayor Pro Tem Papen,
Councilmen MacBride, Forbing and Werner.
Also present were Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager; Andrew
V. Arczynski, City Attorney; George Wentz, Interim City
Engineer; James DeStefano, Community Development Director; Bob
Rose, Community Services Director and Lynda Burgess, City
Clerk.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Don Schad, 1824 Shaded Wood Rd.,
requested assistance in alleviating the problems with the
postal service within Area A.
Jim Paul, 1269 Ahtena Dr., expressed concern that there was
not a transition period given to the name change from Colima
Rd. to Golden Spgs. He suggested that in the same area, a
sign "Entering the City of Diamond Bar" be placed eastbound
Golden Spgs. and a sign "Leaving the City of Diamond Bar,
Please Return" be placed westbound on Golden Spgs. He also
suggested that median improvements to Landscape District #38
include the extreme west City limits because those residents
also pay the tax assessment.
C/Werner, a member of the Entry Sign Committee with C/Forbing,
explained that the committee is currently considering entry
and exit signs.
ICE/Wentz stated that a recommendation will be brought back to
the City Manager regarding alternative designs for medians in
Landscape District #38, which will include from Lemon St.
west.
Clair Harmony, referring to a comment made at the last meeting
that the consultant placed double asterisks by changes made to
the General Plan, pointed out that the General Plan text dated
July 16, 1991 did not include asterisks for the Golf Course
item or the Triangular Area item, as indicated on page I-15,
item M, Plan for Community Development Land Use. The reasons
those ideas were scrapped was because the community came out
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 2
in large numbers to protest it. Furthermore, because the City
Clerk indicated that the petitioners of the Referendum were
turned down because of legal reasons cited by the City
Attorney, then the City Clerk did indeed have contact with the
City Council through the City Attorney, contrary to what was
said at the last meeting.
Eileen Ansari, 1823 S. Cliffbranch Dr., expressed concern that
the Council appears to be pro -development and that they are
not sympathetic to the needs of the community.
Fred Scalzo, President of the Chamber of Commerce, announced
that the Chamber recently held their annual Community Retreat,
which included members of different facets of the community.
Many items were discussed, but the one common goal was to make
Diamond Bar a better place to live, grow, retire and do
business. He suggested that the general public be given the
same clarification regarding General Plan issues given at the
Community Retreat.
Barbara Beach Cushane, 2021 Peaceful Hills Rd., responding to
a request made at the last Council meeting to hear from
individuals that are not involved in the Referendum, stated
that, for the record, she is opposed to the destruction of —
hills and canyons for mass housing densities and commercial
buildings. She expressed concern for the two lawsuits
pending.
4. COUNCIL COMMENTS: C/MacBride, after conducting inter-
views with applicants applying for the position of
Commissioner, stated that he recommended the following
appointments: Michael Li, Planning Commissioner; David Schey,
Parks & Recreation Commissioner; and Diana Cheng, Traffic &
Transportation Commissioner. He requested that the item be
placed on the next Council agenda. He then commented on how
impressed he was with the parental support and participation
during the recent Boy Scouts Blue & Gold Dinner.
C/Forbing, in response to Mrs. Cushane, explained that the
most recent lawsuit is a result of the Council's denial of a
request to develop a tract. In response to a comment made by
Mrs. Ansari, he explained that a property owner has a right to
develop his land and that the City would have to buy his
property in order for the Council to deny him a right to
develop it. In response to a comment made by Mr. Harmony, he
stated that a vital City has to have an opportunity to have
ideas put forth for discussion.
C/Werner expressed support of joint efforts by the Chamber of --
Commerce and the D.B. Improvement Association (DBIA) in
working with the City to accomplish mutual objectives. In
response to some of the public comments made, he stated that
he plans on keeping an open mind by listening to all points.
In his opinion, the General Plan Resolution should be
rescinded, and the issues brought back for discussion to be
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 3
resolved. Some items having community -wide importance could
possibly be placed on the ballot to seek public input.
MPT/Papen stated that she attended the Girls Softball League's
Opening Day at Peterson Park. The sports groups of this
community have indicated appreciation for the response from
the Parks & Recreation Department and the City Council in
supporting the youth activities in the community. In response
to some of the public comments made, she pointed out that the
Council negotiated with Bramalea to reduce their density and
donate over 300 acres to the City. All development agreements
reached have great benefit in public services to the
community, at no cost to the City.
MPT/Papen suggested that it was time to stop dealing with
drafts of the General Plan that were not approved and start
dealing with what was approved and get on with building the
future of our community.
M/Miller stated that he enjoyed both the Boy Scouts Blue and
Gold Dinner and the Girls Softball League's Opening Day.
Further, he stated that he felt that the Chamber of Commerce
Community Retreat was a very beneficial workshop. In regard
to the General Plan, he stated that he feels that it is a good
document and that since the signers of the referendum most
likely signed it on the basis of what was on the petition,
then those are the specific items that will need further
consideration. He also stated that he will not put the
citizens of this community in a position to be assessed
additionally to buy property that this Council arrogantly
zoned opened space.
5. CONSENT CALENDAR: CM/Belanger requested that item 5.8,
a proposed Resolution to accept the vacation of a sewer
easement, be removed from the agenda for consideration at the
next meeting.
CC/Burgess stated that the Minutes of February 2, 1993 were
corrected to indicate, on page 5, that C/Werner voted "no" on
the request for attendance at a Sister City Conference, and
that C/MacBride "abstained."
MPT/Papen requested that the Minutes of February 2, 1993
properly specify, on page 11, that the motion for a "No Right
Turn, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m." was for a 90 -day -trial period.
C/Werner moved, MPT/Papen seconded to approve the Consent
Calendar with the exception of Item 5.8. With the following
Roll Call vote, motion carried:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS - Werner, Forbing, MacBride, MPT/
Papen, M/Miller
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS - None
5.1 SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 4
5.1.1
Planning Commission -
March 8, 1993
- 7:00
p.m., AQMD
Auditorium,
21865 E. Copley
Dr.
5.1.2
Sheriff's
Breakfast -
March 9, 1993
- 7:00
a.m., AQMD
Cafeteria,
21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.1.3
Traffic &
Transportation
Commission -
March
11, 1993 -
6:30 p.m., AQMD Hearing Room,
21865
E. Copley
Dr.
5.1.4
City Council
Meeting
- March 16, 1993
- 6:00
p.m., AQMD
Auditorium,
21865 E. Copley
Dr.
5.2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
5.2.1 Regular Meeting of February 2, 1993 - Approved
as amended.
5.2.2 Adjourned Regular Meeting of February 9, 1993
- Approved as submitted.
5.2.3 Regular Meeting of February 16, 1993 -
Approved as submitted.
5.3 WARRANT REGISTER - Approved Warrant Register dated March
2, 1993 in the amount of $528,799.46.
5.4 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES:
5.4.1 Regular Meeting of January 11, 1993 - Received
& filed.
5.4.2 Regular Meeting of January 25, 1993 - Received
& filed.
5.5 TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MINUTES - Regular
Meeting of January 14, 1993 - Received & filed.
5.6 CLAIM FOR DAMAGES - Filed by State Farm Insurance on
February 17, 1993 - Rejected claim and referred for
further action to Carl Warren & Co., the City's Risk
Manager.
5.7 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 93-09: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA,
SUPPORTING THE ENACTMENT OF FEDERAL LEGISLATION TO
RESTRICT, CONSTRICT AND CONTROL THE FLOW AND EXISTENCE OF
ILLEGAL ALIENS IN THE COUNTRY.
It was moved by C/Werner, seconded by MPT/Papen, to adopt
Resolution No. 93-09 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA,
SUPPORTING THE ENACTMENT OF FEDERAL LEGISLATION TO
RESTRICT, CONSTRICT AND CONTROL THE FLOW AND EXISTENCE OF
ILLEGAL ALIENS IN THE COUNTRY. Motion carried
unanimously by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEN — Werner, MacBRide, Forbing, MPT/
Papen, M/Miller
NOES: COUNCILMEN - None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEN - None
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 5
MATTERS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
5.8 RESOLUTION NO. 93 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE
CITY CLERK, ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, TO
ACCEPT 1) THE VACATION OF A SEWER EASEMENT AND 2) THE
OFFERING OF A RELOCATED SEWER EASEMENT LOCATED AT 3302
SOUTH DIAMOND BAR BOULEVARD AN DIRECT THE CITY CLERK TO
RECORD THE RESOLUTION/EASEMENT DEED - This Sewer Easement
Vacation/Relocation is between Parcel 1 of Parcel 15375
and Parcel No. 1 of Parcel Map 2151 at 3302 S. Diamond
Bar Blvd., for construction of an Arco AM/PM mini -mart.
The Sewer Easement Vacation/Relocation has now been
submitted to the City for approval. Continued to March
16, 1993.
6. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, PROCLAMATIONS, CERTIFICATES, ETC.
6.1 CERTIFICATES OF APPRECIATION - M/Miller presented
Certificates of Appreciation to Adam Hardie and Megan
Henderson for their efforts in obtaining signatures
opposing the proposed MRF by the City of Industry.
6.2 PROCLAIMED MARCH 7-13, 1993 AS "GIRL SCOUT WEEK."
7. NEW BUSINESS:
7.1 RESOLUTION NO. 93-10: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR AUTHORIZING THE RELEASE OF THE
RFP FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF
PANTERA PARK - CM/Belanger reported that the City had
been awarded a $1.47 million grant, funded by Prop A
funds to develop Pantera Park and that a landscape
architect is required to complete the plans and
specifications for development. He indicated that the
Parks & Recreation Commission recommended authorization
of the release of the RFP for landscape architectural
services.
In response to C/Werner, CM/Belanger stated that staff
will move as swiftly as possible to bring the plans and
specifications back to Council for approval.
CSD/Rose stated that a timeline showing when Proposition
A bond money will be available will be received in April
of 1993.
MPT/Papen moved, seconded by C/Werner, to adopt
-- Resolution No. 93-10 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR AUTHORIZING THE
RELEASE OF THE RFP FOR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF PANTERA PARK. Motion carried unanimously
by the following Roll Call vote:
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 6
AYES: COUNCILMEN - Werner, MacBride, Forbing, MPT/
Papen, M/Miller
NOES: COUNCILMEN - None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEN - None
7.2 AGREEMENT FOR SPECIAL LITIGATION SERVICES - CM/Belanger
reported that the City is involved in litigation entitled
Diamond Bar Assoc., Inc. vs. City of Diamond Bar and that
the Council deemed it prudent to retain special
litigation services to advise and represent the Council
in the matter. After meeting with representatives of
four law firms, it was recommended that the City retain
the services of Rutan & Tucker to provide these services.
It was further recommended that the City Attorney be
directed to prepare the appropriate agreement.
MPT/Papen requested that the attorney interviewed during
Closed Session be the attorney of record to represent the
City in the case and in all actions.
CA/Arczynski stated that Leonard Hempel would be lead
counsel and that terms and conditions of the agreement
would be in accordance with the written proposal
previously submitted.
It was moved by MPT/Papen, seconded by C/MacBride to
retain Rutan & Tucker for special litigation services
related to Diamond Bar Assoc., Inc. vs. City of Diamond
Bar, and direct the City Attorney to prepare the
appropriate agreement. Motion carried 4 to 1 with
C/Werner abstaining.
7.3 FIXED ROUTE DEVIATION TRANSIT SYSTEM - ICM/Wentz reported
that UMA Engineering, Inc. was retained to conduct a
feasibility study for a fixed route deviation transit
system for the general public within the City on a
regular basis. Phase I of the study presented the
results of a questionnaire and telephone survey designed
to estimate the demand if a system were implemented.
Phase II of the study presented various options in
funding, ridership potential, route layout, timetables,
fare structure and vehicle requirements available to the
City. It was concluded that, based upon an estimated
cost annually of about $680,000, and using 60,000 trips
estimated in Phase I as a guideline, the cost would be
approximately $11.34 per passenger, requiring a subsidy
of $10.59 per passenger per trip for ridership. Both
phases were reviewed by the Traffic & Transportation
Commission who were concerned that the cost of the
service would be too expensive. There was additional
concern regarding the types of vehicles -to be used and
how the system would be funded. If funding was to be
used for such a program, there was a consensus that
Proposition C funds be explored. The Traffic &
Transportation Commission did express either support or
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 7
opposition. He recommended that the fixed route system
not be implemented at this time, but that staff explore
alternatives for partial or total implementation based on
ridership demand.
At the request of C/MacBride, ICE/Wentz explained that a
fixed route deviation transit system involves having
vehicles operating on fixed routes within the City and
running on known schedules, so that riders could utilize
those particular fixed routes, along with other feeder
routes from specific areas with the most potential for
ridership within the City, to feed into that particular
system.
C/MacBride suggested that staff explore the possibility
of assistance and cooperation from the Foothill Transit
District.
MPT/Papen suggested that there be some publicity in the
City and in Chino Hills regarding opening of the
Metrolink Station in the City of Industry in mid-June
1993.
It was the consensus of Council to direct staff to
explore alternatives for partial or total implementation
of a fixed route deviation transit system based on
ridership demand.
7.4 RECONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION NO. 92-44: A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ADOPTING A
GENERAL PLAN FOR THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR - CM/Belanger
reported that the Elections Code Section 4055 stipulates
that upon certification of petitions filed to referend an
action of the City Council, the City Council may either
repeal the enabling legislation (reconsider Resolution
No. 92-44) or submit the matter to the voters at an
election. If the Council repeals Resolution No. 92-44 or
conducts an election and the Resolution is not voted in
the affirmative, the matter cannot be considered for a
period of one year. However, if the Council repeals the
Resolution, a new General Plan can be adopted for the
City without the one-year waiting period if it could be
found that the new document is essentially different than
what was adopted. The following items of concern have
been expressed by the community in asking that Resolution
No. 92-44 be subjected to referendum: the number of
acres to be developed under the General Plan; objection
to a transportation corridor designated in the sphere of
influence area generally known as Tonner Canyon and
impacts of development on the circulation system, both of
which would be generated from within and outside the
City. If the Council determines not to repeal Resolution
No. 92-44, then the matter must be set for an election no
sooner than 88 days from the date of that determination.
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 8
M/Miller suggested that Resolution No. 92-44 be repealed
and that public hearings be reconvened regarding the
General Plan to discuss changes to: the number of total
developed acres, the number of total housing units, the
removal of reference to a transportation corridor in the
sphere of influence area and an evaluation of the circu-
lation system impacts. Those changes should be made in
the General Plan designation which are Constitutionally
permissible. Staff should then be directed to prepare
the necessary staff analysis, and where appropriate,
secure the assistance of technical and legal consultants
to provide whatever information and/or advice is neces-
sary to create an essentially different General Plan
based on the parameters, concerns and impacts stated in
the referendum petition. Council should form a sub-
committee to work with staff to be certain that the
issues at hand are being addressed in an appropriate and
expeditious manner. He further stated that notwith-
standing any legal argument that could be posed related
to the referendum process, it is critically important to
move forward as a community by taking those actions which
are necessary and prudent to bringing to full force and
effect the General Plan.
CM/Belanger noted that the wording of the petition
clearly does not ask for the recall of the City Council.
C/Werner pointed out that the Government Code clearly
states that when a referendum is placed before the City
Council, the Council can either rescind the action or the
decision that caused the referendum to be circulated, or
to place the matter before the electorate. Putting the
matter on the ballot may not be to the best benefit of
the community because the people can only vote "Yes" or
"No" and if the ballot measure fails, there would be no
justification to make any changes. Since the petition
identifies four issues of concern, it may be best to
rescind the General Plan and deal with those four
specific issues, to try to settle them to the community's
satisfaction through the public hearing and adoption
process.
Gary Neely, 344 Canoe Cove Dr., stated that it is the
responsibility of the Council to submit this to a vote of
the people. If the Council concurs to repeal the General
Plan, then they should be prepared to state specifically
what they feel is wrong with the General Plan, as did the
proponents of the Referendum. If it is to be placed on
the ballot, then the ballot should also include the —
following items: the election of the City Clerk; the
election of the City Council by district; and an advisory
measure as to whether or not there should be term limits
for the Councilmen.
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 9
M/Miller pointed out that the intent is to bring the
specific issue within the referendum petition back for
public hearing to receive input from the community.
Mr. Neely pointed out that the General Plan process did
not work because the issues regarding Tonner Canyon,
Sandstone Canyon and the Bramalea property of upper
Sycamore Canyon were not open to public debate to allow
full participation regarding decisions to be made.
MPT/Papen requested Mr. Chavers, Chairman of the Traffic
& Transportation Commission, to come forward and comment
on what occurred at the Commission and GPAC level
regarding the issue of a Tonner Canyon transportation
corridor versus a highway.
Todd Chavers explained that a consultant was selected, in
the development of the circulation element portion of the
General Plan, to prepare a technical model so that there
would be a common data base for analysis, evaluation and
comparison. The consultant brought forward alternative
mitigation measures to improve traffic in the City,
specifically Grand Ave. and Diamond Bar Blvd. It was
determined that without a Tonner Canyon corridor, based
with the prospect of 50,000 to 60,000 cars on Grand Ave.
and Diamond Bar Blvd., the community would be unbearable
and unlivable. Therefore, a transportation corridor
through Tonner Canyon seemed to be a solution to help the
City maintain a level of traffic congestion within the
City that is tolerable. The Traffic & Transportation
Commission felt that Tonner Canyon could be a potential
route, whether a light rail segment, a monorail segment,
or an HOV-lane-only type of segment, to accommodate the
traffic.
C/Werner pointed out that Tonner Canyon is identified and
recognized as an environmental area of significance and
that the current version of the General Plan attempts to
balance both the environmental as well as future traffic
issues.
Mr. Chavers further pointed out that not having a Tonner
Canyon statement in the General Plan would not make the
issue of traffic go away or get better.
MPT/Papen explained that Brea's sphere of influence
already plans for development in Tonner Canyon that
includes a roadway, but not through to Chino Hills. In
addition, a roadway currently exists through Tonner
Canyon, within L.A. County which is not open to the
public.
C/MacBride stated that the City has Tonner Canyon and the
improvement to the 57/60 freeway as two major potentials
for removing traffic from our roadways. There is a vast
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 10
difference between a roadway, or a freeway and an
environmentally -sensitive corridor that might accommodate
such things as paralleling horse trails, bicycle paths,
hiking trails and parkways. A corridor could be built
environmentally sensitive, as was done with the George
Washington Parkway, if all the communities work
cooperatively to do so.
Mr. Chavers, concurring with C/MacBride, stated that he
would lean toward development of a Tonner Canyon corridor
over improvement of the 57/60 freeway because the
environmental aspects of double decking an interchange
through the City in that neighborhood would be
unacceptable. Tonner Canyon offers an opportunity to
create something the way we want and with financial
benefit to the City.
MPT/Papen stated that she feels that the General Plan
should have included a map of Tonner Canyon specifically
showing where the SEA is located so people could see the
Possibilities of providing another traffic outlet for
vehicles without imposing on the SEA. Through L.A.
County, Tonner Canyon is approximately 3,500 acres with
the SEA portion at 1,000 acres, and clustered in one
area. Furthermore, since there was also some discussion
about other significant ecological areas in the
community, it would seem appropriate to prioritize those
areas that the community might give up for community
enhancement and those areas that can be saved.
M/Miller pointed out that the projections stated in the
EIR of the General Plan indicate that there are
approximately 6,300 units potentially buildable in the
City.
MPT/Papen stated that the Council has many ways of
implementing controlled and planned growth that is
environmentally sensitive in this community.
Clair Harmony stated that the Council should take care to
hear the people during public hearings if the City
decides to repeal the General Plan.
M/Miller explained that he will be abstaining from
hearings or any processing of the South Pointe Master
Plan because of his prior involvement as an owner in that
area. That information and the sale of that property was
given to the City Attorney. Though the City Attorney
indicated that there is no legal conflict of interest, --
M/Miller decided to abstain from the process because of
his professional and personal relationship with Jan
Dabney, JC Dabney & Associates, who is currently working
for one of the land owners involved in the process.
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 11
M/Miller then pointed out that the Tonner Canyon property
that is being referred to is not in Diamond Bar and that
it is the decision of the Boy Scouts of America to either
stay with L.A. County or be part of this community.
Furthermore, any road that may go through Tonner Canyon
would have to be with the cooperation of the Boy Scouts.
The concept of leaving the language in the General Plan
is to allow for that option to be considered in the
future so it can be discussed.
Fred Scalzo, President of the Chamber of Commerce, stated
that in the best interest of the business community's
commitment to prosperity and the community at large, it
is vital that the Council find the quickest and most
equitable solutions to the issues of the petition. If it
is to go to ballot, then it is important that the public
be educated as soon as possible to the issues.
Jack Bath, 13232 Twelve Street, Chino, representing the
Sierra Club's Diversity Task Force, pointed out that the
Council has been negligent in addressing the wildlife
movement in the General Plan. He stated his support for
the decision to rescind the General Plan.
RECESS: M/Miller recessed the meeting at 9:12 p.m.
RECONVENE: M/Miller reconvened the meeting at 9:18 p.m.
7.4 CONTINUED DISCUSSION OF RECONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION
92-44: Wilbur Smith, 21630 Fair Wind Ln., stated that he
felt that there had not been a great enough attempt made
by the transportation authority of the City to control
the flow of traffic through synchronized signalization.
Furthermore, since the City's traffic condition is
determined by its neighbors, the City should not be
attempting to solve a regional problem with our minimal
resources.
Eileen Ansari, 1823 S. Cliffbranch Dr., suggested that
the City look at the City of Whittier to see what they
have done to get money to save certain areas or certain
properties.
MPT/Papen pointed out that Diamond Bar received funds
from the same source as the City of Whittier; however,
Whittier received more funds because they applied for a
different project.
Mrs. Ansari then stated that with certain modifications
of the General Plan, there could be a meeting of the
minds.
In response to a comment made by Mr. Smith, M/Miller
stated that the City is synchronizing the lights to the
City's advantage to discourage cut through traffic in the
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 12
City. The problem is that the people living on Grand
Ave. must also get home and go to work.
It was moved by M/Miller and seconded by C/Werner to
direct staff to draft a Resolution repealing Resolution
No. 92-44, to reconvene the General Plan for Public
Hearing regarding changes to the number of total devel-
oped acres, the number of total housing units, reconsider
the reference to the transportation corridor in the
sphere of influence area, i.e. Tonner Canyon, and to
evaluate the circulation system impacts. Further, direct
staff to prepare an analysis and, where appropriate,
secure the assistance of public information, technical
and legal consultants to provide whatever information
and/or advice is necessary to create an essentially
different General Plan.
C/Forbing suggested that staff first be directed to bring
the Resolution back so that Council can vote on repealing
Resolution No. 92-44 and then direct staff to schedule a
Public Hearing as soon as possible for discussion of
essential changes to the General Plan. Further, devel-
opment of a City Council subcommittee, appointed by the
Mayor, should work with staff to come up with ideas and
proposals for discussion at Public Hearings.
C/Werner pointed out that the M/Miller's motion indicated
that the matter would be brought back to Public Hearing
and identified the four items discussed in the petition,
but does not lock the Council into those items only. He
felt that the motion was adequate to satisfy the
Council's objectives. He further stated that there is no
need for another subcommittee and that everything should
be kept out in front so as not to give any illusions as
to what is to be accomplished.
MPT/Papen stated that only two or three chapters of the
General Plan would need to be reviewed. She suggested
that staff come back with a Resolution, that Public
Hearing dates be set and that the chapters to be dis-
cussed be identified for discussion at a pre-set meeting
date. She concurred that a Council subcommittee was not
necessary.
M/Miller amended his motion to exclude consideration of
a subcommittee.
MPT/Papen expressed concern that once Resolution No.
92-44 is repealed, then the City has a draft General --
Plan. The four issues identified in the motion are the
four areas of concern raised in the petition and are not
the only issues that can be discussed.
CA/Arczynski stated that it was staff's understanding
that a Resolution to repeal Resolution 92-44 is to be
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 13
prepared and brought along with a memorandum to the
Council outlining the projected hearing dates, potential
times that might be allotted for different areas of the
General Plan and to initiate analysis of the specific
areas mentioned, subject to new areas or other
modifications the Council wishes to place before the
staff during the conduct of the Hearings.
M/Miller restated his motion to direct staff to prepare
a Resolution repealing Resolution No. 92-44, to reconvene
the General Plan for Public Hearing regarding changes to
the number of total developed acres, the number of total
housing units, consideration of the transportation
corridor in the sphere of influence, i.e. Tonner Canyon,
and an evaluation of the circulation system impacts, and
to bring those changes back in the form of the General
Plan for consideration. Staff was further directed to
prepare the necessary staff analysis and, more
appropriate, secure the assistance of public information,
technical and legal consultants to provide whatever
information and/or advice is necessary to create an
essentially different General Plan. C/Werner affirmed
his second to the motion. Motion carried unanimously.
7.5 RESOLUTION NO. 93 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA, CALLING AND
GIVING NOTICE OF THE HOLDING OF A SPECIAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 1993, FOR THE
SUBMISSION TO THE VOTERS OF A QUESTION RELATING TO
REFERENDING RESOLUTION NO. 92-44 ADOPTING THE GENERAL
PLAN OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR - Not adopted.
7.6 RESOLUTION NO. 93 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO
RENDER SPECIFIED SERVICES TO THE CITY RELATING TO THE
CONDUCT OF A SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON
TUESDAY, JUNE 8, 1993 - Not adopted.
7.7 RESOLUTION NO. 93 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA, SETTING
PRIORITIES FOR FILING A WRITTEN ARGUMENT REGARDING A CITY
MEASURE AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN
IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS - Not adopted.
7.8 RESOLUTION NO. 93 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR, CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE
FILING OF REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS FOR CITY MEASURES SUBMITTED
AT MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS - Not adopted.
8. PUBLIC HEARING: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as matters
can be heard.
8.1 ORDINANCE NO. 01 (1993) - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ADDING A NEW CHAPTER
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 14
22.78 TO TITLE 22 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE AS
HERETOFORE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE PERTAINING TO TRIP
REDUCTION AND TRAVEL DEMAND MEASURES - ICE/Wentz
reported that State statute requires local jurisdictions
to adopt and implement a (TDM) Ordinance, consistent with
the County Congestion Management Program (CMP), encourag-
ing car pooling, van pooling, transit ridership and on -
motorized transportation. The Planning Commission
reviewed the proposed Ordinance and recommended Council
adoption. The Traffic & Transportation Commission also
reviewed the Ordinance and their comments were included
in the staff report. He further stated that staff
recommended that Section 22.78.20, Page 9, of the
Ordinance be amended to clarify and highlight the City's
compliance with the land use analysis portion within the
Congestion Management Plan of the County.
M/Miller opened the Public Hearing.
With no testimony offered, M/Miller closed the Public
Hearing.
It was moved by C/Werner and seconded by MPT/Papen to
waive further reading and adopt first reading of
Ordinance No. 01(1993) entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ADDING A NEW
CHAPTER 22.78 TO TITLE 22 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE
AS HERETOFORE ADOPTED BY REFERENCE PERTAINING TO TRIP
REDUCTION SND TRAVEL DEMAND MEASURES, as amended. Motion
carried unanimously by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEN - Werner, Forbing, MacBride, MPT/
Papen, M/Miller
NOES: COUNCILMEN - None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEN - None
8.2 RESOLUTION NO. 93-11: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING TENTATIVE PARCEL
MAP NO. 23629 AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION NO.
92-8, AN APPLICATION FOR A SUBDIVISION OF ONE PARCEL,
INTO TEN PARCELS, WITH FOUR OF PARCELS DIVIDED INTO
UNITS A AND B, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN THE WALNUT
BUSINESS CENTER, AT 20418 WALNUT DRIVE - CDD/DeStefano
reported that Cornerstone Partners Walnut, Ltd.
requested approval of TPM No. 23629 for subdivision of
one parcel into ten parcels for commercial condomin-
iums. The subdivision meets or exceeds all development
standards within the planning and zoning code for the
M-1.5 zone. The Planning Commission reviewed the pro-
posed subdivision beginning in December of 1992 and
concluded on January 25, 1993 by recommending that
Council adopt a resolution approving the Parcel Map.
The Planning Commission augmented their actions by
adding specific conditions dealing with the existing
graffiti problems with some of the parcels that have
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 15
existing buildings facing the freeways.
In response to C/Werner's inquiry regarding management
of property maintenance, CDD/DeStefano stated that
there would be a Commercial Owners Assn. In regard to
uniform signage, CDD/DeStefano stated that a Planned
Sign Program for this project was approved by the
Planning Commission late in 1992 which allowed for a
diversity of signage styles but with an overall theme
complimentary to the architecture that exists within
the area. The design criteria would remain and become
a part of this project, even upon the individual sale
of the units. It is not specifically part of the
subdivision issues; however, if the Council desires, a
provision could be incorporated in the CC & R's
indicating that the property owners abide by the
Planned Sign Program.
C/Werner asked what controls the City would retain to
assure that individual uses do not exceed the confines
of the building, for parking spaces to accommodate the
building, or the ability for the Center to continue
operating without being impacted by one individual
user. He also inquired if there would be any
overriding management control over the uses to avoid
the competition that might occur from like businesses.
CDD/DeStefano stated that, at this point, the Center is
100% occupied. In most cases, any new land use would
require some form of tenant improvements, which gives
the City the ability to look at the ratio of parking
spaces based upon the square footage of the use.
Presently, there are no other means of double checking
the intensity of the parking. The management issues
regarding the concerns for similar land uses would be
more aptly directed to the applicant.
In response to MPT/Papen's inquiry, CDD/DeStefano
explained that, as allowed by the Subdivision Map Act,
the project is a combination of ground space
subdivision and air space subdivision, and though the
project is ten lots, it is better described as 14
units. The two units on one lot could have different
owners.
MPT/Papen expressed concern that the present property
owners don't own the billboards and don't have rights
to them and over the lack of adequate guest/visitor
parking on the street for each of these complexes. She
noted that every parking space on the street is marked
reserved.
M/Miller opened the Public Hearing.
James Camp, Cornerstone Partners, Walnut, explained
that they purchased the property about a year ago with
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 16
the intent of subdividing. He made the following
responses to those comments made by the Council: his
firm has provided for the Walnut Business Center
Maintenance Business District in the CC&Rs which will
control all of the common area, including landscaping,
parking lot maintenance, sweeping, irrigation; each
owner will be assessed a maintenance district fee to
cover the costs; Cornerstone Partners would maintain
control of the District as long as they own one
building and they plan to retain parcels #1, #2, and
#3, which are multi -tenant buildings; the CC&Rs provide
for the owners to have the right to vote Cornerstone
Properties out, usually after all buildings are sold;
the current tenants expressed interest in purchasing
their respective units; the project includes the
parking spaces on Yellow Brick Rd., and the District
will strive to avoid reserve parking spaces; his firm
will comply with State Handicap Codes by putting in
those facilities that are immediately and readily
available including putting proper handles on doors,
adjusting access to restrooms, installing ramp access
as building permits are pulled, and other requirements
as tenant improvement permits are pulled.
CDD/DeStefano confirmed, upon M/Miller's request, that
the applicant is not required to meet the State
Handicap Requirements unless a tenant improvement
permit is pulled. That condition cannot be implemented
as a condition of approval for the map.
James Camp, in response to C/Werner, explained that
they are trying to meet a demand for purchase of small
buildings. Businesses want to own their buildings and
there is currently attractive financing through FBA.
The purpose of the Maintenance District is to provide
the control that the City desires.
C/Werner inquired if the applicant would object to a
condition prohibiting someone who purchases a building
from subleasing part of the building.
Mr. Camp stated that he would prefer not to have such a
restriction because too many restrictions begin to
raise concerns from the buyers. However, from a
practical standpoint, it will most likely not occur.
Mr. Camp, in response to MPT/Papen, explained that the
seller, when in escrow to purchase the property, leased
it to a church who improved the building 80%, thus --
requiring additional parking, and as a result, encum-
bered the neighboring lots. His firm has shifted that
parking to lots #1, #2 and #3. There are plenty of
parking spaces provided throughout the project when
including spaces approved when the project was origin-
ally developed 17 years ago on the private drive,
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 17
Yellow Brick Rd.
CDD/DeStefano, in response to C/Werner, stated that he
does not believe that any of the uses there today
require, or would require a CUP. The Council is
reviewing and considering approval of a subdivision of
the land or the air space, not considering the land
uses that are there, which may change in the future.
C/Werner inquired if it would be in the City's
discretion to impose some land use restrictions on this
lot split so as to avoid any future parking problems or
land use over-intensifications.
Mr. Camp, in response to MPT/Papen, explained that at
the time of the traffic study they were vacant,
however, since then, those units have been leased and
the park is 100% occupied. There is ample parking at
the center for those tenants.
In response to C/Werner's concern regarding graffiti,
Mr. Camp stated that they have agreed to do whatever
they could, within reason, to get rid of the graffiti
problem. A 12 ft. high steel barrier had been placed
on all roof access ladders with padlocks to keep
taggers off the roof, 56 five gallon creeping vines for
the wall will be planted to deter graffiti, and
additional wall pack lighting on the freeway will be
installed. In response to MPT/Papen's concern
regarding the billboard issue, Mr. Camp explained that
they do not have the right to those billboards, nor do
they derive any income from them, and that they are
held by two individuals who have the rights to them for
another 10 to 15 years.
MPT/Papen suggested that there should be documentation
on that lease in the files so that the City knows when
to give them notice.
CDD/DeStefano stated that there is no information in
the files regarding the specific lease, but information
from the applicant that discusses in more detail the
easement that allows for the operation, maintenance,
etc. of the two billboards that exist. Staff was able
to find from the building permits the original permits
granted for the erection of the billboards in the early
to mid 701s.
With no further testimony offered, M/Miller closed the
Public Hearing.
CA/Arczynski stated that it is staff's recommendation
that subsection z on page 6 be deleted from the
Resolution. Further, in response to C/Werner's concern
regarding condition C on page 4, stated that the point
MARCH 2, 1993
PAGE 18
of the condition was to alert, not only this applicant
but subsequent purchasers, that trash haulers must be
permitted by the City.
CDD/DeStefano, in response to C/Werner's suggestion
that the property owners also be alerted that they are
required to provide facilities for separated recycling
and solid waste, to be properly screened, stated that
condition B may accomplish that goal.
CA/Arczynski, in response to C/Werner's suggestion that
condition T, on page 6 be less vague, stated that the
condition is used by the Engineering Department for any
inconsistencies on the map that was not caught and are
not really particular to the map.
CDD/DeStefano, in response to C/Werner, confirmed that
from a planning standpoint, the map has been reviewed
for inconsistencies.
ICE/Wentz confirmed that the map was reviewed for
inconsistencies from an engineering perspective.
MPT/Papen stated that she is hesitant to allow lot
splits with irregular lines, where the private street
is a separate lot, with a mixture of individual
buildings and duplexes. The design of the Center was
not intended to be a condominium industrial parcel and
it may not be consistent with the General Plan for the
design of that property. Furthermore, there does not
seem to be any real benefit to the City.
C/Werner stated that even though he shares the concerns
expressed by MPT/Papen, there may be some pride of
ownership that would result in a better use or
maintenance of the property.
It was moved by C/Forbing and seconded by C/MacBride to
adopt Resolution No. 93-11, entitled: A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 23629 AND MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION NO. 92-8, AN APPLICATION FOR A SUBDIVISION
OF ONE PARCEL, INTO TEN PARCELS, WITH FOUR PARCELS
DIVIDED INTO UNITS A AND B, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED WITHIN
THE WALNUT BUSINESS CENTER, AT 20418 WALNUT DRIVE, as
amended. Motion carried by the following Roll Call
vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEN - Forbing, MacBride, Werner, M/
Miller
NOES: COUNCILMEN - MPT/Papen
ABSENT: COUNCILMEN - None
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS: C/Werner announced that Pat Whelan
would be resigning from the Parks & Recreation Commission and
MARCH 2, 1993 PAGE 19
that he will accept applications or letters of interest from
members of the community to fill this vacancy. He requested
staff to prepare a certificate of recognition for Mr. Whelan.
C/Forbing stated that the City of Industry would be signing a
property agreement with the Pomona Unified School District on
March 5, 1993.
MPT/Papen stated that a letter had been received from the City
of Alhambra indicating that their redevelopment agency had
filed a written complaint with the California Supreme Court
challenging the constitutionality of the State's diversion of
property taxes from cities to replace the State's constitu-
tional obligation to fund public education. She requested the
Council send a letter to the Supreme Court urging them to hear
this matter. The Council concurred.
10. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct,
M/Miller adjourned the meeting at 10:39 p.m.
ATTEST:
Mayor
LY DA BURGESS,CMC/AAE
City Clerk