HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/02/1999 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
MINNEQUA LANDSLIDE
SOLID WASTE TASK FORCE REPORTS
MARCH 2, 1999
CITY COUNCIL CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Chang called the meeting to
order at 5:13 p.m. in the South Coast Air Quality Management District Room
CC -8, 21865 E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
2. ROLL CALL: Council Members Ansari, Mayor Pro
Tem O'Connor and Mayor Chang. Council Members Herrera and Huff were
excused.
Also present were: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager; Mike Jenkins, City
Attorney; James DeStefano, Deputy City Manager; David Liu, Deputy Public
Works Director; Bob Rose, Community Services Director; Mike Nelson,
Communications & Marketing Director, Linda Magnuson, Finance Director;
Lynda Burgess, City Clerk; Rose Manela, Assistant Civil Engineer; Kellee
Fritzal, Assistant to the City Manager and Anne Haraksin, Administrative
Assistant.
A. MINNEQUA LANDSLIDE
DDPW/Liu introduced Justin Hampton, Kleinfelder & Associates.
In response to CM/Belanger, Mr. Hampton explained that the borings
revealed that the area is a fill slope. Approximately 15 to 20 feet of fill was
placed on a bedrock natural cut slope. The failure was in the fill material
and not in the bedrock material. To remedy the situation, he proposed that
the slide debris be removed, back cut near the existing bedrock, fill, contact
and rebuild the slope with compacted engineered fill. One thing that has
been added to the design is a sub -drainage system. He believed that one
of the factors involved in promoting the landslide was the accumulation of
moisture that would be mitigated by the sub -drainage. The estimated cost
to rebuild the slope for 5800 cubic yards of cut and 6100 cubic yards of fill
including import of about 1850 cubic yards is $150,000 to $250,000.
Contractors have not been solicited for bid estimates. He anticipated that
this project will have to be done with specialized small equipment and that
the procedure will be very labor-intensive due to access restrictions between
the dwelling units. Other mitigation alternatives do not include total removal
and do include installation of retaining walls near the toe, mid -slope and top.
There would be some fill placement. Foundations for the retaining walls
would be very extensive and very costly because of access restrictions.
They would require deep caissons into the bedrock, equal distances of infill
into the bedrock. Cost for this type of procedure would exceed the cost of
the previously described mitigation measures.
The existing amount of fill is approximately 5500 to 5800 cubic yards. The
depth is approximately 10 to 14 feet.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 2
MPT/O'Connor asked if Mr. Hampton perceives a potential that this slope
could carry out to other slopes or homes along the ridgeline.
Mr. Hampton stated that there are many slopes in the area. He had not
reviewed the entire ridgeline in order to speculate what may happen. Many
variables had to come together in order for the landslide to occur. If the
same set of variables came together with the same degree of intensity, it
could potentially happen on a similar slope.
CM/Belanger stated that the existing condition prior to the time that slippage
occurred was that slippage had already occurred on the property from which
the primary failure originated in the early 1980's. The then owner of the
property attempted to put in a system of railroad ties that lay on top of the
previous failure. It appears that that is what failed and slumped over the top
of the lower grade and in the process, took a portion of the immediately
adjacent property. The information available to the City about the rest of the
slopes is that they still remain in the condition that was present when the
property was sold.
Bill Grey asked whether vegetation would need to be replaced on the slopes.
Mr. Hampton responded that the slopes would need to be revegetated to
prevent erosion and future failures, the cost for which would be minimal. He
responded to MPT/O'Connor that he did not know if the estimate includes
the cost for revegetation.
George Thawley asked if the proposed mitigation would impact the useable
space of the properties.
Mr. Hampton responded that the toe and top of the slope are very near the
pre -failure conditions and he did not believe there will be a loss of useable
space.
CM/Belanger stated that the property line for these properties is about mid -
slope. The property is not being reduced because the line exists in the air.
If Mr. Thawley is talking about the pad area, very little pad area from either
the upper slopes or the lower slopes would be lost, if any because this
project is proposed to be completed within the existing slope.
Mr. Hampton explained to Mr. Thawley that the mitigation effort will reinstate
the slope to its current condition and not to current City Code. Due to the
steepness of the slope, the calculated safety factor is less than 1.5 which is
current drainage code. The sub -drainage has been included to help reduce
the amount of water in the slope which will help reduce the potential for
another failure. The slope was constructed with in the current practice at the
time of construction. This slope would not be constructed in this manner
MARCH 2, 1999
PAGE 3
under current standards and methods of construction and design. Most
likely, the slope would be constructed today at a 2:1 ratio.
DDPW/Liu stated that Kleinfelder & Assoc. conducted a limited geological
process in order to observe the existing provisions of the recorded failures.
Kleinfelder noted that the entire slope area is impacted by several
generations of relatively shallow slope failures. They concluded that over
the years, the failure of the homeowners to maintain their respective portions
of slopes and the seasonally intense rainfall experienced this past winter
contributed to the results of the slope failure. In order to repair and rebuild
the slope, Kleinfelder suggested that it will be necessary to remove all of the
loose and disturbed soil. In order to properly prevent future failure, constant
and ongoing maintenance will need to be provided to preserve the slope.
In response to MPT/O'Connor, CM/Belanger stated that this is a different
type of a physical situation. It is more in the line of an extensive rill as
opposed to the type of landslide that is apparent to the east. It is a function
of water draining in the wrong direction. Instead of flowing to the street, it
went over the back of the property and began to create its own pathway
which over the years has affected other structures that were there to take
care of drainage. At the time this process was begun by Council, there was
a budget item in the form of CDBG monies in the amount of $156,000.
Preparation of plans and specifications would cost about $10,000.
Originally, the amount of money contemplated for mitigation of this situation
was approximately $100,000. Based on today's report, a construction
project could cost from $150,000 to $250,000 for all sites which is more
money than is permissible to spend by the County. One of the issues before
Council is the extent to which the City would continue participating in any
project, and the extent to which property owners would be asked to
participate in the rehabilitation of their property.
MPT/O'Connor asked if the process would be to discuss this matter with the
five property owners and then for Council to decide how to proceed.
CM/Belanger stated that, from a policy standpoint, that would be an
approach. This is consideration of a project that exceeds the amount of
money that has been allocated; this is private property, not public property.
The question is, to what extent does the property owner ultimately benefit
from the remediation of the property and therefore, to what extent does the
property owner participate in the solution to the problem.
DDPW/Liu stated that three homes are immediately threatened. Lots 77 and
79 are not directly threatened. However, mitigation measures need to be
instituted to protect those properties.
CM/Belanger said it appears that the grades of the lower properties are
intact.
MARCH 2, 1999
PAGE 4
In response to MPT/O'Connor, Mr. Hampton stated that the cost estimate
assumes that there is a staging area for removal some distance away where
a truck can make a round trip in about an hour. Completion of the project is
estimated to be 30 to 90 days. The dirt would be stockpiled for two to three
weeks.
In response to M/Chang, CM/Belanger explained that approximately
$100,000 of CDBG funds are still available for this project.
M/Chang stated that CA/Jenkins indicated that utilizing public monies for
private property is against the law.
CM/Belanger pointed out that there may be other alternatives for mitigation
measures that would result in re -instituting the cross swales to insure that
area drainage is reconnected and assuring that future slippage is unlikely to
occur. Tonight's presentation involves the ultimate project. There may be
other iterations of the project that will come closer to the amount of monies
available.
Tom Saglime asked if the City is willing to obtain bids from other contractors.
CM/Belanger explained that the money being utilized for this project is
federal money (CDBG) and use of these monies have fairly specific rules
including preparation of plans and specifications, prevailing wage provisions,
etc. which has the effect of driving the cost up. If the property owners pooled
their money and obtained their own contractor, it is likely that the project
would cost less money.
CA/Jenkins stated that it will cost the City at least $15,000 to prepare plans
and specifications to put the City in a position to put the project out for bid.
The question is, does the Council want to spend $15,000 of CDBG monies
without any indication that the property owners are willing to financially
participate in the project just to see what the cost of the project might be. Or,
does the Council wish to get an initial indication of the willingness on the
part of the property owners to participate, and if so, to what extent, to
determine whether it is realistic to go forward. Even if the consultant is off
by 10 or 15%, there is still the need for significant financial participation by
the property owners.
CM/Belanger responded to Kathy Krick that the DBIA offered to engage in
a project similar to the "Paint Our Town" project which involves assisting
property owners who cannot afford to paint their homes. The City
approached DBIA to perhaps consider doing a similar type of project in the
landslide area. The ability of DBIA to do this type of project is somewhat
contingent upon recommendations from the geotechnical engineers as well
as the civil engineers as to what kind of work they could reasonably be
MARCH 2, 1999
PAGE 5
expected to perform that would reduce the cost of the project. DBIA is willing
to participate. The extent of their participation is still to be determined.
In response to MPT/O'Connor, CM/Belanger stated that the California
Conservation Corps (CCC) said they would be willing to participate in this
project. The limitations with the CCC are seasonal --if something else
happens elsewhere in the state, the state has first call on their services.
CM/Belanger stated that this project should be accomplished prior to the
next rainy season (October, 1999).
Bill Grey asked about tax benefits.
C/Ansari said that she was told she would be able to write-off stabilization
repair costs when she sells her home.
Ms. Abernathy said that she did not witness any damage to the bottom level
prior to last January. The vegetation on the hill is the same vegetation that
was present when the tract was built.
CM/Belanger stated that the two property owners involved in the second
situation need to meet with the City's Engineering staff and the consultant
in order to obtain answers regarding their concerns.
Firman Lopez said there was no damage to his slope but he was told by
Deputy Sheriffs that he would have to leave his home. He expressed
concern about his ability to financially participate in the project.
B. SOLID WASTE TASK FORCE REPORT.
J. Michael Huls, R.E.A., presented the Solid Waste Task Force Committee's
report and recommendations to the Council.
Red Calkins asked if recycling numbers include statistics for people who sell
their aluminum cans and bottles.
Mr. Huls responded that the City gets credit if the material shows up in the
landfill.
Dave Reynolds responded to Red Calkins that Sacramento provides
technical assistance for cities.
Mr. Huls said that Sacramento staffers will tell cities that they need to
implement curbside and variable rates, place ordinances on businesses, etc.
and if cities do these things they will reach a certain percentage. However,
if cities do not reach those percentages, they will be fined.
MARCH 2, 1999
PAGE 6
Bill George said there a lot of programs that can be implemented and cities
know what the programs are. Cities can include surplus fees on charges to
pay for the services in order to reach compliance. The question has always
been "what are the businesses and residents willing to pay to make this
happen?" If Council decided to implement all of the programs and raised the
rubbish collection bill by $4.00 per month would that be a viable answer for
Mr. Calkins.
Red Calkins asked how the cities can receive more credit for recycling by
charging the consumer more dollars?
Bill George responded that collection companies will collect more materials
and pay someone to take the waste. Collection companies are bound by
whatever amount they are willing to pay for the recyclable materials.
Whatever the amount of recovery, the collection company is bound by
contract to pick up the material and sell it.
C/Ansari believed the City needs to seriously consider implementation of a
multi -family residential recycling program. She asked what effect the
changes in Sacramento will have on the cities.
Mr. Huls felt that cities will see a greater emphasis on regulations. With the
appointment of former Senator Roberti, he believed the Southern California
area will have a greater voice and a better understanding of the mandates.
Dave Reynolds encouraged the'City to establish standards and definitions
prior to June 30, 1999 in order to give the haulers an opportunity to more
properly institute the programs.
CM/Belanger stated that D.B. currently has a modified open market system.
Any hauler who wishes to do business in D.B. must agree to adhere to the
City's standards which has significantly reduced the number of haulers.
Every two years, haulers must apply for renewal of their permit. As of June
30, 1999, all permits expire which means that the haulers doing business in
D.B. have to decide whether they want to continue doing business for the
next two years.
Red Calkins said that when a City has one hauler, it cannot control charges
and he said he wants the ability to choose his hauler.
Council Member Huff arrived at 6:26 p.m.
Mr. Huls indicated that the City is not obligated to give a two year permit
extension. The permit may be extended for any period of time - 3 months, 6
months, etc. However, the City is rapidly reaching the time that it needs to
make decisions about solid waste recycling. The public forum is the best
MARCH 2, 1999
PAGE 7
approach for putting forth information and receiving feedback.
Bill George stated that the closure date for SPADRA will be extended at
least another six months. He reiterated his concern that with the new
regime in Sacramento, standards will be tightened. He is concerned that
the state regulators do not seem to have a clear concept of the
relationship between costs and benefits.
3. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to conduct, Mayor
Chang adjourned the Study Session at 6:31 p.m. to the regular City Council
Meeting.
LYNDA BURGESS, City Clerk
ATTEST:
Mayor
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MARCH 2, 1999
1. CLOSED SESSION: - 4:00 p.m., SCAQMD Room CC -8
Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation (Subdivision (a) of
Section 54956.9): Dolezal vs. City of Diamond Bar.
STUDY SESSION: Called to order at 4:38 p.m. in Room CC -8 of the
South Coast Air Quality Management Building.
a) Discussion of Minnequa Landslide
b) Solid Waste Task Force Reports
2. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Chang called the meeting to order at 6:42
p.m. in the Auditorium of the South Coast Air Quality Management District,
21865 E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl
Scout Junior Troop 730
INVOCATION: The Invocation was given by Pastor
Dennis Stuve, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Ansari, Huff, Mayor Pro
Tem O'Connor, Mayor Chang. Council Member Herrera was excused.
Also present were: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager; Mike Jenkins, City
Attorney; James DeStefano, Deputy City Manager; David Liu, Deputy Public
Works Director; Bob Rose, Community Services Director; Mike Nelson,
Communications & Marketing Director, Linda Magnuson, Finance Director
and Lynda Burgess, City Clerk.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Presentations were re -ordered and Items
8.1 and 9.2 were continued to March 16, 1999.
3. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
3.1 Certificate of Recognition to Janet Eastman for Girl Scout Gold
Award.
3.2 Proclaimed the week of March 2, 1999 as Girl Scout Week.
3.3 Presentation by Donna Georgino, Region IV Representative for
California Parks & Recreation Society of CPRS Award of Merit to City
Council and staff Re: Pantera Park Design.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
3.4 Introduced two new City employees: Stella Marquez, Planning
Division Secretary and Sharon Gomez, Public Works Division
Secretary.
3.5 Presentation by Lanterman Development Center Re: Proposed
Services Expansion Project.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Dexter MacBride, on behalf of the Mt. SAC Board
of Trustees, invited everyone to attend "The Tillet Exhibit" at the institution's
Art Gallery March 17 through 26, 1999, to view a masterpiece entitled "The
Arrival of the Spanish in Aztec Mexico" presented for the very first time on
the west coast depicting the arrival of Cortez in the New World. There is no
charge or gallery fee to view the tapestry.
Grace MacBride asked why the public was not notified about the Lanterman
expansion project until tonight's meeting and why is D.B. the only City
contiguous to the facility that did not respond to the EIR. She believed City
officials made a poor decision when they decided to take a "wait and see"
attitude regarding this matter.
Red Calkins complained about the lack of public information regarding the
Lanterman expansion project.
Martha Bruske asked Council to share the results of Council's study
sessions with the public. She recommended that the Council adopt a
Mission Statement. She asked for a report on the Minnequa Landslide and
Solid Waste issues.
Don Gravdahl said he first heard about the Lanterman expansion project two
weeks earlier. The February 9, 1999 Mitigated Negative Declaration
contains letters from the Cities of Pomona and Walnut but none from D.B.
He asked to know why D.B. did not notify its citizens about this project and
why the City did not forward a letter to the State of California regarding this
matter.
Zack Flisik thanked Council and staff for their support in consideration of
constructing a skateboard park in next year's budget.
Ernie Aldrete thanked the City and the residents for their support of the
Trinity Board Shop. He asked the City to consider constructing a skateboard
park to help eliminate skateboarders from using shopping center parking
lots. He felt embarrassed that he has to take local youth to skateboard parks
outside of the City in order for them to be able to practice their sport.
Aaron Flisik said that although skateboarding is not an organized sport,
there are fields for basketball, baseball, soccer, etc. There is no place for
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
skateboarders in D.B. A skateboard facility would provide a win-win for the
skateboarders and the merchants. He thanked Council for their
consideration.
Martha Bruske asked for an explanation of Consent Calendar Item No. 6.5.
Dr. Lawrence Rhodes stated that sex offenders and criminal types that might
escape and become a problem to the community are not allowed at
Lanterman per State law.
Mrs. Maple, representing Lanterman Developmental Center, stated that fact
sheets related to the Lanterman expansion project are available upon
request from any member of the public. She encouraged people to attend
the March 27, 1999 meeting and express their concerns and ask questions.
The facility is always available to provide tours and answer questions.
People receiving services from the expansion project will not be coming from
a State hospital. Lanterman is a developmental center and in order to come
to a development center, individuals must be mentally retarded which is
different from mentally ill. The people who will receive services from
Lanterman will have a mental age from 4 to 10 and they will have a range of
retardation from profound to mild. Lanterman is not to be confused with a
state hospital. Lanterman does not serve the mentally ill, criminally insane,
or violent sexual offenders.
Captain Richard Martinez, Walnut Sheriff Station, stated that he and other
law enforcement agency members meet regularly with Lanterman officials
and that there is an ongoing dialogue regarding the program security issues
and concerns. He further stated that he has toured the Porterville facility and
there is no correlation between what occurred at Porterville and what will
occur at Lanterman. He felt that every effort had been made to ensure that
the Lanterman facility is as safe as possible and will protect the public from
every foreseeable problem.
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 PLANNING COMMISSION - Tuesday, March 9, 1999 - 7:00 p.m.,
SCAQMD Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.2 TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION - Thursday, March
11, 1999 - 7:00 p.m., SCAQMD Hearing Board Room, 21865 E.
Copley Dr.
5.3 CITY COUNCIL MEETING - Tuesday, March 14, 1999 - 6:30 p.m.,
SCAQMD Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.4 COMMUNITY/CIVIC CENTER TASK FORCE - Wednesday, March
24, 1999 6:30 p.m., SCAQMD Room CC -2,21865 E. Copley Dr.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
5.5 FOUR CORNERS TRANSPORTATION POLICY GROUP
COMMITTEE MEETING - Monday, March 29, 1999 - 9:00 a.m. -
11:30 a.m. - SCAQMD, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.6 CITY 10th BIRTHDAY PARTY - April 18, 1999 - 12:00 - 5:00 p. m.,
Peterson Park, 24142 E. Sylvan Glen Dr.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Ansari moved, C/Huff seconded, to
approve the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Item No. 6.5. Motion
carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES:
COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff, MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES:
COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT:
COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
6.1 APPROVED MINUTES:
6. 1.1 Study Session of February 16, 1999 - As submitted.
6.1.2 Regular Meeting of February 16, 1999 - As submitted.
6.2 RECEIVED & FILED PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES:
6.2.1 Regular Meeting of December 8, 1998.
6.2.2 Regular Meeting of January 12, 1999.
6.2.3 Regular Meeting of January 26, 1999.
6.3 APPROVED VOUCHER REGISTER - dated March 2, 1999 in the
amount of $539,757.84.
6.4 REVIEWED & APPROVED TREASURER'S REPORT - for January,
1999.
6.6 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 99-10 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR INSTALLING MULTI -
WAY STOP SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTIONS OF SANTAQUIN
DRIVE/REDGATE CIRCLE AND KIOWA CREST DRIVE/DEERFOOT
DRIVE.
6.7 RESOLUTION NO. 99-11 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR INSTALLING MULTI -WAY STOP
SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF MOUNTAIN LAUREL WAY AND
PECAN GROVE DRIVE.
6.8 AWARDED CONTRACT FOR SPECIAL LEGAL SERVICES TO
RICHARDS, WATSON & GERSHON FOR REVIEW OF THE CABLE
TELEVISION TRANSFER - pertaining to the Cable Television
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
Transfer Application in an amount not -to -exceed $2,000 and
authorized the City Manager to enter into said contract.
MATTERS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
6.5 RESOLUTION NO. 99-09: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF BALLFIELD
LIGHTS AT LORBEER MIDDLE SCHOOL IN SAID CITY AND
AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE CITY CLERK TO ADVERTISE
TO RECEIVE BIDS.
Martha Bruske asked why the City would get involved in funding
equipment at schools.
CM/Belanger stated that funds for installation of ballfield lights at
Lorbeer Middle School are provided by Quimby funds that are
received by the City from developers.
Joe Nolan, Dream Engineering, presented a site plan showing the
lighting design and location of the poles.
Following discussion, C/Ansari moved, MPT/O'Connor seconded, to
adopt Resolution No. 99-11 approving plans and specifications for
installation of ballfield lights at Lorbeer Middle School. Motion carried
by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
7.1 RESOLUTION NO. 99-12: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT NO. 98-1 - At the request of Council, the Planning
Commission reviewed and considered an amendment to the General
Plan Land Use Element, Objective 1.5, Strategy 1.5.3. The proposed
amendment would insert text to require an election for removal or
modification of an open space deed, easement, map restriction or
land use map designation. The Planning Commission took action on
January 26, 1999, recommending Council adoption of GPA No. 98-1.
M/Chang opened the Public Hearing.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
There being no testimony offered, M/Chang closed the Public
Hearing.
In response to C/Ansari, DCM/DeStefano explained that the question
of lifting map and deed restrictions with respect to the SunCal project
would not have gone to a vote of the people because the property
contained within the SunCal application does not contain an open
space easement deed or map restriction, or designation.
CM/Belanger stated that the property that has been proposed to be
dedicated to the City will be dedicated as open space. Any future
discussion about changing the designation from open space to some
other type of land use would require a vote of the people.
C/Huff thanked the Planning Commission for their diligence in
reviewing the language of the proposed General Plan Amendment.
Following discussion, C/Huff moved, C/Ansari seconded, to adopt
Resolution No. 99-12 approving General Plan Amendment No. 98-1.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS — Ansari, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
7.2 CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - INTRODUCTION OF
AMENDMENT TO TITLE 22 OF THE DIAMOND BAR MUNICIPAL
CODE TO INCORPORATE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR
RADIO, TELEVISION AND WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS
FACILITIES - The City established a Telecommunications Task Force
to review issues related to the siting and design of
telecommunications facilities. The Task Force completed its work in
October 1998. In November 1998, Council received a report from the
Task Force outlining its findings and recommendations. The Draft
Ordinance establishes new standards and criteria for placement of
radio, television and wireless telecommunication facilities within
commercial, industrial and, under certain conditions, residential
zones. The Planning Commission concluded its review of the
Ordinance on February 9, 1999 and recommended adoption. On
February 16, 1999, Council opened the Public Hearing, received
testimony and continued discussion to March 2, 1999.
DCM/DeStefano stated that placement of amateur radio station
antennas is a permitted use under the ordinance subject to approval
of a Conditional Use Permit. This ordinance requires a 4/5 vote for
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
approval.
M/Chang opened the Public Hearing.
Martha Bruske asked under what circumstances the City would place
telecommunications facilities in residential zones.
Timothy Davis, Carrier Solutions Manager, Southern California
Edison, stated that his company has over 14,000 transmission towers
throughout its service territory. They are looking to make the towers
available to the wireless cellular local multi -point distribution services
and digital PCS carriers for mounting of equipment. He indicated that
SCE encourages cellular carriers to mount their equipment under the
transmission tower in order to render the installation as aesthetically
pleasing as possible.
C/Huff asked if it is possible to place the support equipment
underground. Does SCE limit the number of antennae that can be
attached to the towers?
Mr. Davis indicated that at this point, SCE has not mandated the type
of installation the carriers must provide. The number one goal of SCE
is safe and reliable transmission of electricity. SCE allows only one
attachment per tower due to the limitations of the wind load factor.
Monty Brown asked why the City would want to limit radio antennas
in residential neighborhoods. He recommended that the Council
relook at the proposed ordinance and remove limitations placed on
amateur radio operators.
Marty Zimmerman, NexTel, complimented staff on the preparation of
a smart ordinance. He pointed out the urgency in getting sites in the
area to service the 10,000 to 15,000 new customers per month
coming on the NexTel network.
There being no further testimony offered, M/Chang closed the Public
Hearing.
DCM/DeStefano offered the following amendments to the Ordinance:
On Page 3, Section 8, following the phrase "pursuant to California
Government Code Section 36937B, add the following: "It is
necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health
and safety to adopt the regulations contained within the
ordinance"... etc. On Page 3, Section 9, the section should state..
"The radio and television and wireless telecommunication ordinance
attached hereto as Exhibit A is hereby adopted as an urgency
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
measure and it shall take effect immediately upon passage". On
Page 3, add Section 10 to read: "Ordinance No. 4B (1997) is hereby
repealed".
Following discussion, C/Huff moved, C/Ansari seconded to waive full
reading and adopt, by urgency, Ordinance No. 4 (1999) entitled: AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR ADOPTING AN
AMENDMENT TO TITLE 22 OF THE DIAMOND BAR MUNICIPAL
CODE TO INCORPORATE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR
RADIO AND TELEVISION ANTENNAS AND WIRELESS
TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA FACILITIES (CASE NO. ZCA
98-2) AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF. Motion carried
by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
8. OLD BUSINESS:
8.1 RESOLUTION NO. 99 -XX: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR DENYING AN EXTENSION OF
TIME FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 51253, CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT 92-12 AND OAK TREE PERMIT NO. 92-9 FOR A
PROPERTY LOCATED EAST OF MORNING SUN AVENUE AND
NORTH OF PATHFINDER ROAD - Amrut Patel of SASAK
Corporation has requested approval of a one-year extension of time
in order to subdivide approximately 6.7 acres into 21 single family
lots. CONTINUED TO MARCH 16, 1999.
8.2 MATTER OF MID -YEAR BUDGET ADJUSTMENT #1 for FY 98/99
General Fund Budget and FY 98/99 Special Funds Budget.
MPT/O'Connor moved, C/Huff seconded, to approve the budget
adjustments for FY 98/99 General Fund Budget and the FY 98/99
Special Funds Budget. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
8.3 PARK IMPROVEMENTS AND ADA UPGRADES FOR RONALD
REAGAN PARK AND HERITAGE PARK -
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
(A) For FY 98/99, Ronald Reagan and Heritage Parks were
scheduled for ADA retrofit/upgrades. On December 5, 1998,
Council authorized staff to advertise for bids for Park
Improvements and ADA Upgrades for these two parks.
MPT/O'Connor moved, C/Huff seconded to (a) approve a
budget adjustment which includes allocation of additional
CDBG funds in the amount of $109,000 to increase the total
budget amount for this project to $439,000 from the current
$311,700; (b) award a construction contract to 4 -Con
Engineering, Inc. in an amount not -to -exceed $366,650.75 and
provide a contingency amount of $15,000 for project change
orders to be approved by the City Manager, for a total
authorization of $381,650.75. Motion carried by the following
Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
(B) Council awarded a construction contract to 4 -Con Engineering,
Inc. for park improvements and ADA upgrades for Ronald
Reagan and Heritage Parks. Staff proposed to award a
construction inspection services contract to D&J Engineering.
As the City's Building & Safety Consultant/Building Official,
D&J is thoroughly familiar with ADA standards and code
compliance requirements.
MPT/O'Connor moved, C/Ansari seconded to authorize the
City Manager to execute a purchase order for D&J
Engineering for construction inspection services in an amount
not -to -exceed $14,875. Motion carried by the following Roll
Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
8.4 RESOLUTION NO. 99-13: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING INSTALLATION OF
A 50 -FOOT RED CURB NORTH OF, AND A 25 -FOOT RED CURB
SOUTH OF PASCO COURT ON FALLOW FIELD DRIVE - To
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 10 CITY COUNCIL
improve the sight visibility distance of motorists at the intersection
of Fallow Field Dr. and Pasco Ct., the Traffic & Transportation
Commission recommended installation of a 50 foot red curb north
of and a 25 foot red curb south of Pasco Ct. on Fallow Field Dr.
The vicinity of this intersection is utilized mainly by visitors and
employees of First Mortgage Corporation during the week for two
hours between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Following discussion, MPT/O'Connor moved, C/Huff seconded, to
adopt Resolution No. 99-13 approving installation of a 50 foot red
curb north of and a 25 foot red curb south of Pasco Ct. on Fallow
Field Dr. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera
9. NEW BUSINESS:
9.1 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR DIAL -A -CAB SERVICES TO
DIVERSIFIED PARATRANSIT - In December 1999, the City released
a Request for Proposals for Dial -A -Cab Services. The RFP was
mailed to six taxi/paratransit service providers and only one firm
responded - Diversified Paratransit, Inc. Diversified has been
providing dial -a -cab services to the City since April 1995. These
services are offered to residents who are 60 years of age and older
and persons with disabilities, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, as a
demand -response system. The boundaries for coverage are Arrow
Hwy. to the north; Imperial Hwy./Carbon Canyon Rd. to the south;
Central Ave. to the east and Hacienda Blvd./Amar/Sunset to the west.
In addition to the boundaries, the City has designated 29 medical
facilities, Ontario Airport and Fullerton Amtrak Station. The fares are
$.50 within City limits and $1.50 outside City limits within the
boundaries or designated facilities.
Martha Bruske felt that the City is throwing away its Proposition A
funds by providing this program.
C/Ansari recommended increasing the fee to Ontario Airport and
Fullerton Amtrak Station from $1.50 to $5.00 per one-way trip. She
stated that senior citizens have expressed concerns about the dial -a -
cab door latches opening more easily. She said that she is pleased
with the response of the company but is concerned about the length
of time between calling for a cab and actual pickup.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
MPT/O'Connor agreed with C/Ansari that the fee to Ontario Airport
and Fullerton Amtrak Station should be increased from $1.50 to $5.00
per one-way trip.
In response to MPT/O'Connor, CM/Belanger explained that
Proposition A Funds are intended to be used for trans it/transportation
services (buses, shuttles and other types of conveyances). These
funds may also be used, on a limited basis, to create concrete bus
pads where buses stop as well as senior citizens' excursions. In
addition, D.B. has a very aggressive and successful transit subsidy
program. All related activities must be approved by MTA.
CA/Jenkins stated that it may be advisable to place this matter on a
future agenda so that the affected persons would have some notice
of and opportunity to comment on the proposed increase.
C/Huff left the meeting at 10:15 p.m.
Following discussion, C/Ansari moved, M/Chang seconded, to award
a contract for Dial -A -Cab services to Diversified Paratransit, Inc. for
the period April 1, 1999 to June 30, 2000 and direct staff to bring
back a report on increasing the fees for ridership to Ontario Airport
and the Amtrak Station in Fullerton. Motion carried by the following
Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Herrera, Huff
9.2 MATTER OF APPOINTMENT OF TWO DELEGATES AND ONE
ALTERNATE TO THE TRES HERMANOS CONSERVATION
AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS - The City Councils of D.B.
and Chino Hills have entered into a Joint Exercise of Powers
Agreement which forms the Tres Hermanos Conservation Authority.
The THCA/JPA provides for each City to have two members on the
board of directors and one alternate. CONTINUED TO MARCH 16,
1999.
RECESS TO REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING: M/Chang recessed the
City Council Meeting to the Redevelopment Agency at 10:21 p.m.
RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING: M/Chang reconvened the City
Council meeting at 10:25 p.m.
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL
10. COUNCIL SUB -COMMITTEE REPORTS AND COUNCIL
MEMBER COMMENTS: C/Ansari stated that Council had been
very busy during the previous two weeks. On February 17, she
and MPT/O'Connor attended a Contract Cities Meeting. The
Council Members met with legislators in Sacramento on February
18 to attempt to insure that additional monies are not taken away
from cities. She attended the Parks award ceremonies in Santa
Clara. On February 23, she attended an all day water conference
at CalPoly. On February 24, the YMCA held its fundraising kickoff.
She attended the Troop 7 Boy Scout Court of Review. Troop 7 has
had more than 45 Eagle Scouts and have an average of two new
Eagle Scouts per month. The CLOUT meeting was held on
February 25 during which she had an opportunity to see the newly
remodeled Claremont City Hall, skateboard park and pooch park.
On February 26, the Council attended the Chamber of Commerce
Breakfast with Assemblyman Bob Pacheco. In the afternoon, she
attended the final SCAG Solid Waste Committee meeting. In the
evening, she attended the SCAG retirement dinner as well as the
City of Pomona's honor ceremonies for former Council Member
Nell Soto. Further, she attended the AB939 (trash and solid waste)
meeting at the SCAQMD conducted by consultant J. Michael Huls.
On April 25, the Friends of the Library will hold a Wine Soiree.
She encouraged citizens to participate in the fundraising for Pacific
Crest Drum and Bugle Corp and for the South Pointe Middle
School band.
MPT/O'Connor stated that on February 17, she attended the Contract
Cities meeting. On February 19, she attended a Transportation
Conference dealing with the Alameda East Corridor Project. On
February 20, she assisted in the delivery of 3400 cases of Girl Scout
cookies. She attended the CPRS awards banquet in recognition of
the City's work on Pantera Park that night. On February 24, she
attended the YMCA campaign kickoff. On February 25, she attended
the Eggs & Issues Breakfast sponsored by the Chamber of
Commerce. The featured speaker was Assemblyman Bob Pacheco.
Also on February 26, she attended the Finance Committee meeting,
which is open to the public. Friday evening she attended the D.B.
High School Las Vegas Night, which is a fundraising activity for the
school's future stadium. On February 27, she and C/Herrera
attended the opening ceremonies for Girls Softball. On February 28,
she and C/Huff and C/Herrera attended the Little League's opening
ceremonies. On Sunday evening, she attended the CIF Football
Champion's banquet honoring the CIF champions. She invited any
citizen who is concerned about the meetings she attends to contact
her for further information. Responding to earlier comments, she
stated that Council study sessions are open to the public; the date,
MARCH 2, 1999 PAGE 13 CITY COUNCIL
time and location is stated on the published agenda. She
encouraged concerned citizens to participate. She emphasized that
no Council actions are taken during study sessions. Actions are
taken during Council meetings in the public forum. She asked that a
Sheriffs Department presentation regarding the status of school
traffic enforcement be placed on a future agenda.
M/Chang reiterated that Council Members had been very busy during
the last two weeks. With respect to the Lanterman expansion project,
the matter had been ongoing for some time. The facility is not located
in the City and they are following the law. He stated that it was his
fault for not responding to the EIR and apologized to the residents.
He believed that Council Members are making every effort to
represent the wishes of the citizens and to report back to the
residents regarding matters of concern. He apologized for not being
able to attend all City functions. However, there is generally a Council
Member available to represent the City. He spoke about visiting the
State Legislature in an attempt to assist the flow of monies back to
cities. Each Council Member works very hard on behalf of the City to
bring the best to D.B. and improve the quality of life for the residents.
11. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to conduct, M/Chang
adjourned the meeting at 10:43 p.m.
ATTEST:
c --
Mayor
P.
LYNDA BURGESS, City Clerk