HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/03/1999 Minutes - Regular Meeting2
3.
CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
SOLID WASTE STANDARDS
TOWN HALL MEETING
August 3, 1999
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Chang called the Town Hall Meeting to
order at 4:15 p.m. in the South Coast Air Quality Management District
Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Ansari, Herrera, Huff, Mayor
ProTem O'Connor and Mayor Chang.
Also present were: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager; James
DeStefano, Deputy City Manager; David Liu, Deputy Public Works Director;
Mike Nelson, Communications & Marketing Director; Lynda Burgess, City
Clerk; Kellee Fritzal, Assistant to the City Manager and Anne Haraksin,
Senior Administrative Assistant.
PRESENTATION:
J. Michael Huls, Integrated Environmental Services Coordinator, stated that
California law requires cities to reduce, re -use and recycle (diversion) up to
50% of its municipal refuse from disposal by January 1, 2000. As a result,
a task force was formed to study this issue. The task force's
recommendations were reviewed by staff and formed the basis for the
proposed ordinance. He presented the major provisions of the draft
ordinance and proposed changes to that ordinance.
4. PUBLIC INPUTiQUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
Martha Bruske felt that the ordinance was more concerned with fines than
with the .convenience and comfort of the residents. She looked for
correlation between the draft ordinance and the City's Property Maintenance
Ordinance. The Property Maintenance Ordinance is not mentioned. There
are no comments relative to the fact that lids need to be tightly closed, when
cans are supposed to be placed out for pickup, when residents are to take
their trashcans in and where they are supposed to be stored. Further, she
asked that the issue of illegal dumping be cleared up before the ordinance
is signed. She favored a schedule of one day, one carrier, one tract
because trash pickup is noisy and results in plastic bags, etc. blowing
around, which she hoped will be cleared up the by the recycling container.
Don Gravdahl presented figures to back up his theory that single family
residences will carry the weight of the proposed program.
Paul Pistano, Athens Services, said his company would like the ordinance
to provide for a two -container system. In this type of system, the green
waste goes in one container and all trash and recyclables go into another
container. Through the MRFing process, the recycling material is removed.
AUGUST 3, 1999
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PAGE 2 SOLID WASTE TOWN HALL
Some of the advantages of this program are 100% automatic compliance
and lower cost to residents due to fewer trucks on the street. With the
MRFing process, the current container is used for commercial pickup, which
guarantees 100% participation.
Brian Stirratt, Brian Stirratt & Assoc., an environmental engineering company
specializing in landfill and landfill design solid waste management, said that
as a consultant to this City, he was concerned about why. he was not
requested to help the City with its ordinance. He agreed with Mr. Pistano
that the two -bin system would get the City a much better return for its
investment. His main concern was that the consolidation of waste
companies resulted in a major increase in rates with the explanation that
disposal rates were higher. Landfill rates in this area are the lowest they
have ever been. There is a lot of competition and consolidation and he
recommended that there be a process for Council to review any rate
increases that occur in D.B., both on a commercial basis and a residential
basis.
Clyde Hennessee said he was not concerned about whether the City uses
a two or three bin system, he simply didn't want to pay more for trash pickup.
Red Calkins said he is concerned about compliance with respect to the
second sentence of Section 1: (b).
J. Michael Huls acknowledged Martha Bruske's statements and said they
would be considered. Over 200 communities in California have implemented
variable rate programs. While illegal disposal is a bit of a problem, it was a
problem prior to the implementation. It has not been found to be a significant
problem when there is proper education and enforcement of existing
ordinances and laws. The EPA and the State have both agreed that illegal
disposal is not a reason to not implement a variable rate program. With
respect to what to do with current containers, some may be compatible with
the new system. Otherwise, the hauler would retrieve them. With respect
to the proposed ordinance, all sectors will participate in this process and it
is incumbent upon the City to assure that all sectors are participating. One
of the issues involved in any kind of program development is that we're not
specifying exactly what specific system multi -family complexes and business
would have to implement. What we are proposing is that there would be a
provision that recyclables cannot be thrown away. We would require that
the haulers offer and solicit viable programs for multi -family complexes to
implement. If there were dissatisfaction on the part of either party, the City
would act as the mediator to help develop a program that would fit the
particular complex. All will participate and all will pay their fair share. All
options continue to be open at this time. Regarding the amount of material
collected in each sector, multi -family residential (4000 units) generate about
1.5 tons per year. Single family residents generate about 2 tons per year.
AUGUST 3, 1999
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PAGE 3 SOLID WASTE TOWN HALL
One of the primary differences between single family and multi -family
residential is green waste - about 24,000 tons per year. In terms of cost, the
City of Walnut implemented a three -barrel system, which included a
franchise fee of approximately 15% and their rates went from $14 to $16 per
month. There are no incentives in their contract, so that if less is produced,
the cost remains the same. Even though there are no incentives, recycling
increased 260% the first month by virtue of the three -barrel system. With
respect to cost, some of the cities that have been referenced happen to have
municipal systems, which cost more than private systems. The- key is
negotiating and bidding. If we accept what a hauler gives us, we deserve
what we get. He believed that all haulers would like to have a commun-
ity like D.B. to service on an exclusive basis. Negotiation, bidding, length of
contract - these are all things that can be done to decrease cost over the
long run.
In response to C/Huff, Mr. Huls stated that the EPA report estimates a 10-
65% decrease in the amount of waste disposed as a result of implementing
a variable rate system. Claremont's implementation of the three -barrel
system has increased the diversion in the residential sector to approximately
55%. With respect to maintaining containers, it is a shared responsibility
between the hauler and the resident. The hauler has a responsibility to
provide equipment in good operating condition. On the other hand, it is
incumbent upon the City to insure that residents do not treat the equipment
in other than a good manner.
C/Huff suggested that language stating "normal wear and tear" be inserted
in the ordinance. The Solid Waste Task Force considered a two -barrel
system. However, it felt that to meet the intent of the law, we needed to
encourage people to be good stewards of the resources and the two -barrel
system encourages waste, whereas a three -barrel system encourages
recycling.
C/Herrera did not find where the ordinance specifies that it would be a two -
barrel or three -barrel system.
Mr. Huls stated that the language of the ordinance indicates "up to three
barrels." If the hauler that the City selects does not have access to a MRF,
there is no directional authority to send waste to a MRF. However, that is a
consideration that can be added to the ordinance - to clearly identify post -
collection processing and things of that nature.
CM/Belanger asked for Council's direction with respect to comments made
during this and prior town hall meetings.
MPT/O'Connor asked what other cities do with respect to bulky item pickup
on a monthly basis.
AUGUST 3, 1999
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PAGE 4 SOLID WASTE TOWN HALL
CM/Belanger said that in many systems, those types of special collections
are included as a part of the contract between the city and the hauler. Our
approach is different in that we attempt, through the ordinance, to get
cooperation from the haulers in an open market system to provide these
programs.
C/Ansari stated that, in the past, there has been no difficulty getting the
hauler to assist with bulky item pickup.
MPT/O'Connor said she would like the ordinance to be as flexible as
possible to insure the possibility of optional systems.
CM/Belanger pointed out that the draft ordinance is flexible and that there
are no limitations at this time. However, the City is proposing the
implementation of programs because the current system is not getting the
City to the goals it is
required to achieve. There is currently one hauler that collects 96% of the
refuse collected in the City without any restrictions in an open market
system. So, to suggest that putting in a three bin system or a two -bin system.
is going to eliminate competition is a little bit over the top. D.B. has had as
open a system as is possible in a competitive market for the last several
years. The City is getting to the point where it may need to consider using
a single hauler. Council has not yet determined how the City will get to that
point. It can be done through ordinance or through some kind of open
market bid process. With an open market bid process, Council needs to
suggest the kind of system that it wants so that bidders know what to bid
against.
5. CLOSING COMMENTS/NEXT MEETINGS:
To be determined.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to conduct, Mayor Chang
adjourned the Town Hall Meeting at 5:45 p.m.
LYNDA BURGESS
City Clerk
ATTEST:
Mayor
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
AUGUST 3, 1999
STUDY SESSION: 4:15 p.m., SCAQMD Auditorium Town Hall Meeting
regarding Solid Waste.
Present: Council Members Herrera, Huff, Mayor Pro Tem
O'Connor and Mayor Chang. Council Member Ansari arrived at 5:45 p.m.
Also present were: Terrence L. Belanger, City Manager; James DeStefano,
Deputy City Manager; David Liu, Deputy Public Works Director; Mike Nelson,
Communications and Marketing Director; Kellee Fritzal, Assistant to the City
Manager, and Anne Haraksin, Senior Administrative Assistant.
Study Session adjourned at 5:45 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION 5:45 p.m.
a) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation, Government
Code Section 54954.5: City of Diamond Bar vs. State of California
(C/O'Connor recused herself from discussion of this matter)
b) Conference with Legal Counsel - Pending Litigation, Government
Code Section 54954.5: City of Diamond Bar vs. State of California
(C/O'Connor recused herself from discussion of this matter)
C) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation, Government
Code Section 54954.5: Amrut Patel, et al, vs. City of Diamond Bar
2. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Chang called the regular City Council
meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. in the Auditorium of the South Coast Air Quality
Management District, 21865 E. Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, California.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Ansari, Herrera, Huff, Mayor
ProTem O'Connor and Mayor Chang.
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;
Linda Magnuson, Finance Director; Mike Nelson, Communications &
Marketing Director, and Lynda Burgess, City Clerk.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Fire
Chief Gil Herrera.
INVOCATION: The Invocation was given Reverend James
Kelly, St. Denis Catholic Church.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: CM/Belanger recommended that Consent
Calendar Item 6.12 be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion
and that Consent Calendar Item 6.1.3 be continued to August 17, 1999.
3. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
3.1 Proclaimed August 3, 1999 as "NATIONAL NIGHT OUT."
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Martha Bruske thanked the City for placing ars
inquiry in the Windmill seeking public input regarding the civic/community
center. She said that the people of D.B. should not allow any more buildings
without ample and safe parking and that no construction should be allowed
on park sites.
Clyde Hennessee did not believe the City needs a sports center or
performing arts center. He would like to know the cost for Consent Calendar
Item 6.9 and what are the financial advantages and disadvantages with
respect to Consent Calendar Item 6.12.
Dr. Lawrence Rhodes asked the City to do something about solicitors
leaving door hangers and to outlaw the use of cellular phones in restaurants
and theaters.
Stan Granger said that a number of the residents residing in the area of
Summitridge Park object to the construction of a civic/community center on
that site.
Allen Wilson spoke about D.B. school's Stanford 9 test results. He
expressed concern about the reading portion of the test, which points out the
need for a library facility.
Martha Bruske objected to the use of transportation funds for a skateboard
park design. She was concerned about the location of such a park. When
the park is completed, she recommended that the City curtail skateboarding
in parking lots and on public streets. She also commented on Consent
Calendar Items 6.7 and 6.12.
Sue Sisk felt that a sports complex is a very needed item. She stated that
the Lanterman Advisory Committee agreed that the Lanterman weed
abatement contract should be brought back to Council for public discussion
and asked why it is not on tonight's agenda.
Jeff Koontz, D.B. Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, highlighted the
Chamber's upcoming events. He thanked the City for supporting the
Hazardous Waste Roundup.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
Grace MacBride asked why MPT/O'Connor has recused herself from some
Lanterman topics and not from every topic. She asked the City Attorney to
explain the situation in writing or at a public meeting. She also asked that
the City Attorney explain the complaint brought against the City by
Lanterman. She felt that the Lanterman weed abatement contract should be
reconsidered.
Jennifer Hoey felt that contracting with Lanterman for weed abatement is a
conflict of interest. She asked Council to reconsider the contract.
Fred Encinas supported reconsideration of the Lanterman weed abatement
contract. He highly recommended that the City build a sports center. He
asked why the City does not handle parks and recreation in-house.
MPT/O'Connor asked the City Attorney to explain why she must recuse
herself from discussion of certain Lanterman topics.
CA/Jenkins explained that "under the Political Reform Act, which is the State
law that governs financial conflicts of interests by city and other public
officials, a public official cannot participate in a decision that would have a
material financial effect on the official's property or the official's business or
a source of income to the official_ That's the basic rule of financial conflicts
of interest in this State. The law prohibits, makes it a crime for a public
official to participate in the making of a decision that would have a material
financial impact on an economic interest of that official. The purpose of the
Political Reform Act is to prevent self-dealing, basically, to prevent public
officials from participating in matters that might affect their finances. The
theory behind the conflict of interest law is that it presumes that a person
who is financially interested in a matter may simply not be able to view that
matter, to consider that matter, without regard to their financial interest. So,
whether that is a reality, or whether that is merely a perception, the State law
says, to protect the integrity of the decision-making process, we don't want
to allow public officials to participate in matters which will affect their
interests whether the decision by that official is affected or is not affected by
their financial interests. So, the State has an agency called the Fair Political
Practices Commission and that agency promulgates regulations, which
define what is meant by a conflict of interest, what is meant by financial
interest, what is meant by a material financial impact. And these regulations
are contained in the California Code of Regulations and the Fair Political
Practices Commission monitors and supervises how public officials behave
and investigates allegations of violations of these laws. Now, in this
particular instance, we are dealing with Council Member O'Connor's
principal residence, which happens to be located approximately 1,500 feet
from the Lanterman Developmental Center. The law says that if an official's
property is located within 2,500 feet of a property that is the subject of a
decision, it raises the specter of a conflict of interest because it raises the
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
possibility that the official's property will be affected in value by virtue of that
decision. Now, the State law creates, basically, a radius, a threshold
because it recognizes that once you get beyond a certain number of feet,
that the property, the official's property, will be affected only in extraordinary
circumstances. So what is that threshold? It is 2,500 feet. Beyond 2,500
there have to be exceptional or extraordinary circumstances before the
official will be considered to have a conflict. But if it's within 2,500 feet the
official must evaluate whether that decision could have an impact of $10,000
or more, up or down, on the value of their property. The decision in this
instance was the decision by the City Council to initiate proceedings, both
legal proceedings and other proceedings, in the form of lobbying efforts to
stop the expansion of the Lanterman facility. That decision could, arguably,
have a material financial impact on Council Member O'Connor's property
because, many people have argued in this community, that the Lanterman
facility, that the proposed expansion of that facility will have an impact,
generally, a negative impact, on the value of their property. That argument
has been made continually since this matter has arisen. Council Member
O'Connor resides within the radius prescribed by the Fair Political Practices
Commission, which would create this possible impact on her property.
Consequently, when the time came to make a decision, I was asked for an
opinion as to whether or not Council Member O'Connor had a conflict of
interest under the Political Reform Act and concluded that she did. Just to
be certain, we sent a letter to the FPPC asking the FPPC for an opinion on
the same subject, since the FPPC is the ultimate arbiter of conflicts of
interest and it's their opinion that counts, in the end. The FPPC looked at
the facts and wrote an opinion which concurred in the opinion that I had
previously written and it concluded that there was a conflict of interest. That
conflict of interest extends to all decisions which this City Council makes
pertaining to stopping the expansion of the Lanterman facility. And, again,
the basis for it is very simple—if the Lanterman facility is expanded, the
argument goes 'it will have a deleterious effect on real property in the
immediate environments of that facility' which would include Council Member
O'Connor's property. If the Lanterman facility expansion is stopped, it would
not have such a deleterious effect. That is the reason why Council Member
O'Connor is financially interested in that decision and hence, cannot
participate in that decision and in any decision relating to attempting to stop
the expansion of that facility. Now, does Council Member O'Connor have a
conflict of interest relative to a contract for weed and litter abatement, which
has been performed by residents of the Lanterman facility for many years in
this community? No. Why not? Because, whether or not this City pays
$16,000 to Lanterman for weed and litter abatement has absolutely no
bearing on Council Member O'Connor's property, any different than any
member of this community, any other property owner in this community.
That decision doesn't affect her real property in any particular way. Just
because Lanterman is involved doesn't mean she has a conflict. The
decision has to be evaluated independently on its own merits, in this case,
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
the decision whether or not to have a contract for that particular service has
a conflict of interest. Likewise, other decisions that involve the community
as a whole do not create conflicts. There are, sometimes, decisions that
might affect one Council Member's particular street that would require
abstention, that would create a conflict, but no general citywide type.
decisions."
Further, Mr. Jenkins explained "There is an exception in the law that if more
than 10% of the property owners are affected in the same way, then you can
participate under what's called the "Public, Generally, Exception." We did
an analysis of the number of properties located within 2500 feet of the
Lanterman facility and concluded that it did not amount to more than 10% of
the property owners in the
City, and therefore concluded that that exception does not apply."
MPT/O'Connor stated that "the only other way around my being able to
participate would be to have an appraisal done and we did discuss that
earlier. The City looked into what an appraisal would cost and it would be
up to me as a Council Member to determine whether the appraisal was a fair
appraisal. In order to do a fair appraisal, how far do we need to go in order
to get that. The City looked into that and it would cost $15,000 and I would
have to rely on the judgement of the appraisal as to what should be. included
and not included. I personally do not have $15,000 to do an extensive
appraisal in order to determine whether I have a true conflict of interest or
not. I wish I did. I'm very frustrated from not being able to participate in this
Lanterman Forensic program, but I also don't care to be found to be a
criminal. With a conflict of interest, I can be fined and I can also go to
prison. And I apologize to the residents for me not being able to participate.
It's frustrating, and I'm sorry, but that's the way the law reads. Again, if any
of you want to call me I'd be happy to talk to you. I can show you the ruling
from the FPPC. I am not trying to avoid the issue, I am doing what is legally
right and what legally, I need to do."
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 CONCERTS IN THE PARK - "Sam Morrison Band" (Country Western)
- August 4, 1999 - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930
Golden Springs Dr.
5.2 PLANNING COMMISSION - August 10, 1999 - 7:00 p.m., SCAQMD
Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.3 SKATEBOARD PARK COMMUNITY MEETING - August 10, 1999 -
8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Heritage Park Community Center, 2900 S.
Brea Canyon Rd.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
5.4 CONCERTS IN THE PARK - "Instant Replay" (Surfin' USA) - August
11, 1999 - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden
Springs Drive. Visit with the Quakes Mascot, 'Tremor."
5.5 TRAFFIC & TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION - August 12, 1999 -
7:00 p.m., SCAQMD Hearing Board Room, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.6 CITY COUNCIL MEETING - August 17, 1999 - 6:30 p.m., SCAQMD
Auditorium, 21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.7 CONCERTS IN THE PARK - "Future America" (Variety Show) -
August 18, 1999 - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m., Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930
Golden Springs Dr.
5.8 SMALL BUSINESS SEMINAR - "Financial Analysis Term Ratios" -
August 24, 1999 - 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Room CC -6, SCAQMD,
21865 E. Copley Dr.
5.9 NIGHT AT THE QUAKES - August 25, 1999 - Bus leaves City Hall
at 5:30 p.m., Game Time 7:00 p.m.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Huff moved, C/Ansari seconded, to
approve the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 6.6, 6.11 and
6.12. Motion carried by the following Roll vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
6.1 APPROVED MINUTES:
6.1.1 Regular Meeting of July 6, 1999 - As amended.
6.1.2 Town Hall Meeting of July 10, 1999 - As submitted.
6.1.3 Study Session of July 20, 1999 - Continued to August 17,
1999.
6.1.4 Regular Meeting of July 20, 1999 - As submitted.
6.2 RECEIVED & FILED PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION
MINUTES - Regular Meeting of June 24, 1999.
6.3 RECEIVED & FILED PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - Regular
Meeting of June 22, 1999.
6.4 APPROVED VOUCHER REGISTER - dated August 3, 1999 in the
amount of $656,137.61. MPT/O'Connor abstained from voting on the
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
following items which related to the Lanterman Forensic Expansion
Project: Check in the amount of $184 to Fred Encinas; Invoice
#101656 in the amount of $2,292.05; Invoice #XRS69032 in the
amount of $50,000.
6.5 REVIEWED AND APPROVED TREASURER'S STATEMENT - for
June, 1999.
6.7 AWARDED CONTRACT FOR ECONOMIC ANALYSIS FOR THE
PROPOSED COMMUNITY/CIVIC CENTER - to Economic Research
Associates (E.R.A.) for a fixed fee amount of $27,720, plus a
contingency of $5,000 for support architectural services, for a total
authorization of $32,720.
6.8 AWARDED CONTRACT FOR DESIGN OF PANTERA BALLFIELD
LIGHTING - to Hirsch & Assoc., in the amount of $18,890, plus a
contingency of $500 for a total not to exceed amount of $19,390.
6.9 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 99-64: A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR APPROVING
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR GOLDEN SPRINGS DRIVE
AND LEMON AVENUE STREET REHABILITATION AND MEDIAN
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT - and authorized and directed the City
Clerk to advertise to receive bids.
6.10 BREA CANYON SIGNAL -
a) AWARDED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE
TRAFFIC SIGNAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AT THE
INTERSECTIONS OF BREA CANYON ROAD/DIAMOND CREST
LANE, BREA CANYON ROAD/GLENBROOK DRIVE/DIAMOND
CREST LANE, BREA CANYON ROAD/GLENBROOK DRIVE, AND
BREA CANYON ROAD/GOLDEN SPRINGS DRIVE - to L.A. Signal
for the Traffic Signal Improvement Project at the intersections of Brea
Canyon Rd./Diamond Crest Ln., Brea Canyon Rd./Glenbrook Dr., and
Brea Canyon Rd./Golden Springs Dr. in an amount not to exceed
$227,605. Further, authorized a contingency amount of $15,000 for
project change orders, to be approved by the City Manager, for a total
authorization amount of $242,605.
(b) AWARDED CONTRACT FOR THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AT THE INTERSECTIONS OF BREA
CANYON ROAD/DIAMOND CREST LANE, BREA CANYON
ROAD/GLENBROOK DRIVE, AND BREA CANYON
ROAD/GOLDEN SPRINGS DRIVE PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION
SERVICES - to Warren Siecke for Professional Inspection
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
Services for the Traffic Signal Improvement Project at the
Intersections of Brea Canyon Rd./Diamond Crest Ln., Brea Canyon
Rd./Glenbrook Dr., and Brea Canyon Rd./Golden Springs Dr., in an
amount not to exceed $25,824. Further, authorized a contingency
amount of $5,00 for project change orders to be approved by the
City Manager, for a total authorization of $30,824.
6.13 SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 10(1999): AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR AMENDING
CHAPTER 18.108 OF TITLE 18 OF THE DIAMOND BAR MUNICIPAL
CODE ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO UPDATE THE MINIMUM
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM REQUIREMENT FOR
FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT - approved Second Reading by title
only, waived full reading and adopted Ordinance No. 10(1999) to
update the Minimum National Flood Insurance Program
Requirements for Floodplain Management.
MATTERS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
6.6 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR SKATEBOARD PARK DESIGN - --
Council appropriated $200,000 from the sale of Proposition A
(Transportation) funds in the 99/2000 FY Budget for design and
construction of a skateboard park. Staff released an R.F.P. and
received one responsive proposal, from Purkiss Rose - RSI.
Purkiss-Rose successfully designed over 50 skateboard parks
throughout the nation, including local ones in Claremont, Rancho
Cucamonga and San Dimas. Staff recommends that the contract for
the design of the Skateboard Park be awarded to Purkiss Rose - RSI.
In response to C/Herrera, CM/Belanger stated that no location had
been determined.
Grace MacBride supported the concept of the skateboard park
construction to provide a safe location for youth.
Sue Sisk said the Sheriffs Department is responsible for enforcement
of helmet law for bicyclists. She encouraged Council to strictly
enforce helmet laws for skateboarders.
Fred Encinas supported construction of a skateboard park. He asked
Council to consider the type of skateboard park that is located in
Northern California - one large park with small portable satellites. He
objected to the use of Brea employees to operate the facility and
encouraged the City to establish its own parks & recreation
department and hire D.B. residents for the part-time jobs.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
Clyde Hennessee supported a skateboard park.
C/Herrera moved, C/Huff seconded, to award a contract for the design of a
skateboard park (s) to Purkiss Rose -RSI in an amount not to exceed
$20,500, plus a contingency of $2,000 for reimbursables and potential
additional services that may be necessary included topographic survey and
geotechnical study. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
6.11 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THE GEOTECHNICAL WORK NECESSARY
TO REPAIR TWO LANDSLIDES IN SYCAMORE CANYON PARK - Two
landslides in the natural area of Sycamore Canyon Park are in need of
repair. A geotechnical consultant is necessary to do the testing and design
work required to develop plans and specifications for this repair. Council
appropriated $30,000 in the 99/2000 FY Budget to complete the testing,
- design and repair work. Staff released an R.F.P. to obtain a consultant and
there were 5 responses. Staff has completed a thorough review of each
proposal and has determined that Converse Consultants is the best firm to
complete the services requested in the R.F.P.
Martha Bruske asked for a public education program on drainage.
C/Ansari moved, C/Herrera seconded, to award a contract to Converse
Consultants in the amount of $25,300 plus a contingency of $2,500 for a
total not -to -exceed amount of $27,800. Motion carried by the following Roll
Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
6.12 CONSIDERATION OF ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS
FOR THE PROPOSED DIAMOND BAR COMMUNITY FOUNDATION - The
Parks Master Plan, adopted by Council in March, 1998, recommended
establishment of a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation to assist in raising funds
- to implement the goals stated in the Plan. The City Attorney developed
Articles of Incorporation and By-laws with prior input from the Parks &
Recreation Commission. Council reviewed the draft documents and
provided input at its Study Session on July 6, 1999. The City Attorney has
amended these documents.
AUGUST 3, 1999
CM/Belanger confirmed
Foundation throughout
Community Foundation.'
PAGE 10 CITY COUNCIL
to MPT/O'Connor that the name of the
the document will be "The Diamond Bar
MPT/O'Connor requested that on Page 2 of the Bylaws, the following
language be added to (d) Dissolution.: "...within the City of Diamond
Bar." The Council concurred.
MPT/O'Connor suggested that a standard form be developed similar
to the form used for the WCCA for review of potential board members.
CA/Jenkins recommended that Paragraph (c) (ii) c.. Notice Contents.
on Page 9 be revised to read as follows: "The notice shall state the
time of the meeting, and the place if the place is other than the
principal office of the Corporation, and the business to be conducted."
and that "It need not specify the purpose of the meeting." be deleted.
Following discussion, MPT/O'Connor moved, C/Ansari seconded, to
approve the Articles of Incorporation and By-laws, as amended, direct
the City Attorney to file the appropriate documents to establish the
Diamond Bar Community Foundation, and announce openings for
Board of Director appointments for said Foundation. Motion carried
by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
7.1 TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 23382, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
NO. 92-1 AND OAK TREE PERMIT NO. 95-2 FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED IN THE 3000 BLOCK OF STEEPLECHASE LANE
(DOLEZAL) — DCM/DeStefano reported that Mr. Warren Dolezal is
the owner of a 2.55 acre site located in the 3000 block of
Steeplechase Lane. In June, 1995, the City approved Tentative
Parcel Map No. 23382, Conditional Use Permit No. 92-1, and Oak
Tree Permit No. 95-2 for purposes of retaining the existing oak tree
subdividing the property into four lots. In September 1998, Council
denied a request to extend land use approvals and remove the oak
tree. Mr. Dolezal filed an action in Superior Court to overturn the City
denial. The City and Mr. Dolezal agreed to settle the dispute in April
1999. Mr. Dolezal has filed for an extension of time, reducing the
project parcel map from four to three lots, and preserving the existing
oak tree. On July 27, 1999, the Planning Commission recommended
AUGUST 3, 1999
PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
approval of the requested extension of time, lots reduction and tree
preservation.
C/Herrera asked what access was originally proposed for the project.
DCM/DeStefano responded that the original project approval of four lots
included access from Steeplechase Lane from the private side of the project.
The access issue has been resolved through "The Country Estates"
Homeowners Association and with the current three lot proposal, access
remains from Steeplechase Lane through 'The Country Estates." No access
is permitted via Hawkwood Rd. The JCC Project at the terminus of
Hawkwood Rd will create an emergency -only gate.
In response to C/Huff, DCM/DeStefano stated that the project contains lots
that are less than the one -acre minimums required by 'The Country Estates."
However, the project is not technically a part of "The Country Estates."
In response to C/Ansari, DCM/DeStefano indicated that project approval
contains a series of conditions and mitigation measures that call out
extensive observation by appropriately certified persons to monitor
preservation of the oak tree.
M/Chang declared the Public Hearing open.
Warren Dolezal, property owner, stated that through extensive planning and
work with staff, the proper conclusions have been reached, as requested by
Council, to reduce the project to three lots and save the oak tree which is
special to him, also. He asked for Council's approval subject to the same
Resolution No. 99-18 approved by the Planning Commission and
recommended to Council.
Martha Bruske complained about removal of oak trees by other developers..
Dr. Lawrence Rhodes said that oak trees will not survive if leaves are raked
from beneath them. It is absolutely essential that the leaves recompose
because of the way the tree works. He believed that this was a good project
for the City.
C/Ansari moved, C/Herrera seconded, to direct staff to prepare a resolution
of approval for Tentative Parcel Map No. 23382, Conditional Use Permit No.
92-1 and Oak Tree Permit No. 95-2 for property located in the 3000 block of
Steeplechase Lane (Dolezal). Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL
8. OLD BUSINESS:
8.1 DISCUSSION OF STATUS OF LANTERMAN:
MPT/O'Connor recused herself and left the dais.
a) Final Report on Lanterman Developmental Task Force
presented by Chairperson Sue Sisk.
Fred Encinas read from a July 24, 1999 Tribune article. He believed
that Governor Davis has ignored the citizens' efforts to stop the
expansion project. He invited Council Members to attend the
Advisory Committee Car Rally at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 14.
He thanked the City for obtaining opposition support from 40
surrounding cities.
Dr. Lawrence Rhodes said he would have no problem with Lanterman
expanding its current population; however, he would be opposed to
change in the facility from a severe mentally disabled facility to a
prison.
Martha Bruske said she thought that the task force had to be chaired
by a Council Member and wondered how much support the City gave
toward helping Sue Sisk prepare the report. She felt that the report
should have included a list of expenses. She expressed concern that
the task force has now been changed to an advisory committee and
that there has been no change in the charge of the group. She will
be glad when this matter is concluded because she believed it is a
win/lose situation and the City should have tried harder for a win/win
situation.
Jack Gutowski respected the work of the Task Force. He pointed out
that the project was acted upon during the tenure of Governor Wilson.
He believed more people would be opposed to the project if the
matter did not seem to be so anti one particular political group.
Sue Sisk stated that the task force was not attempting to pose a
danger to any other communities by way of its recommendations.
The recommendations for the San Gabriel Valley included honor
ranches that have already been established and were closed down
due to the lack of funding. Three members of the task force prepared
the report. She thanked staff and Council Members Herrera and Huff
for their support of the task force.
b) Status of Legal and Legislative Activities regarding the
Lanterman Development Center Forensic Expansion Project.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 13 CITY COUNCIL
Report by C/Herrera, M/Chang and CM/Belanger.
Darla Farrell urged the Council not to forget about the severe behavioral
patients, which is a greater concern to residents than the forensic patients.
In response to C/Herrera, CA/Jenkins stated that the discrimination charge
against D.B. is based upon the imposition of two conditions by Council on
the proposed contract for weed and litter abatement with Lanterman
concerning the wearing of uniforms and the exclusion of forensic and severe
behavioral patients from that program. The charges are that those
conditions violate state and federal laws, which prohibit discrimination
against the disabled.
MPT/O'Connor returned to the dais.
8.2 FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 09(1999): AN ORDINANCE
RESTRICTING PARKING WITHIN DIAMOND BAR PREFERENTIAL
PARKING DISTRICT NO. 2 AND AMENDING THE DIAMOND BAR
MUNICIPAL CODE ACCORDINGLY - Council reviewed the parking
situation on Fallow Field Dr. and Pasco Ct. At the July 6, 1999 meeting,
Council amended Preferential Parking District No. 2 Ordinance creating
"No Parking Any Time, Except by Permit" from 3200 Fallow Field Dr. to
Malad Ct. including all of Pasco Ct., for residential parking. In addition,
Council created 10 employee -parking permits for First Mortgage
Corporation (FMC); on the east and west side of Fallow Field Dr.,
adjacent to the FMC building. However, after review of the Ordinance,
the "No Parking Any Time, Except by Permit" would create a burden on
the residents when there is not a problem on weekends and weeknights.
The creation of "No Parking Any Time" would mandate that the residents
obtain permits for any parking on the streets. Therefore, the First
Reading of Ordinance No. 9(1999) is being amended to read "No Parking
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday Through Saturday."
Martha Bruske said the Council should have a philosophy of no
commercial parking on residential streets.
M/Chang moved, C/Huff seconded, to add signs in front of First Mortgage
Corporation on both sides of Fallow Field Dr. indicating "No Parking 8:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday Through Saturday," and the rest of the signs
shall read: "No Parking 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday Through Friday,"
--- introduce first reading, waive full reading of Ordinance No. 09(1999)
restricting parking within D.B. Preferential
Parking District No. 2 and amending the D.B. Municipal Code accordingly.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 14 CITY COUNCIL
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - MPT/O'Connor
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
MPT/O'Connor stated her reason for voting "No" on this matter is a
result of her objection to allow commercial business parking on
residential streets.
8.3 CONSIDERATION OF STREET TREE PROGRAM
a) Median Tree Planting - to plant 543 trees on landscaped
medians on D.B. Blvd. and Grand Ave. at a cost of $95,025. Funds
are available in L.L.M.D. #38.
b) Species Replacement Program - to replace Canary Island
Pines, Brisbane Box and Jacaranda trees along the major arterials
because of the damage these trees do to the hardscape. Canary
Island Pines will be removed and replaced during a 15 -year phased
program. A variety of flowering trees will be used as replacements.
Brisbane Box will be replaced through attrition and Tristania Laurina
and Jacaranda trees will be replaced through attrition with Chinese
Fringe. Trees that will be planted will all be sized as 24" box.
Average annual cost for the phased 15 -year plan will be
approximately $10,000. First year cost will include removal of raised
tree well covers, removal of up to 30 hazardous trees and planting
replacement trees. Total first year cost is expected to be $20,325.
C/Huff moved, C/Herrera seconded, to continue the matter until the
minutes from the Study Session are more complete to determine
whether all Council questions have been addressed. Motion carried
by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
8.2 CONSIDERATION OF VERTICAL HOLIDAY BANNERS - Council
considered installation of holiday banners to create a festive
atmosphere for the community during the holiday season. Options
being considered include: 1) Posting banners adjacent to shopping
centers with financial support from the shopping centers - 308
banners; 2) Posting banners along the full length of D.B. Blvd. - 366
banners; 3) Posting banners adjacent to shopping centers and
along the full length of D.B. Blvd. - 500 banners. The City is
working with the Chamber of Commerce to determine the interest
AUGUST 3, 1999
PAGE 15 CITY COUNCIL
of shopping centers to participate in this program. Cost of each banner is
approximately $220 for material, printing, posting hardware and brackets,
posting, removal, storage and cleaning of banners.
Clyde Hennessee suggested that either 15 or 20 banners be placed
strategically throughout the City. He did not believe that an excessive
number of banners would be necessary.
C/Herrera moved, MPT/O'Connor seconded, to post up to 308 holiday
banners adjacent to the shopping centers with the cost for purchasing and
posting the banners evenly split between the City and the adjacent shopping
center, with banners posted only where shopping centers agree to provide
such financial support. Further, authorized the use of up to $33,900 in funds
from the General Fund, or, if found to be eligible, Redevelopment Agency.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
8.4 CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED MILLENNIUM EVE CELEBRATION -
The coming of the new millenium has sparked an interest in the
community for a City -sponsored celebration on December 31, 1999. Staff
has developed a concept of having an event at the intersection of Grand
Ave. and D.B. Blvd. Included in the event will be fireworks, entertainment,
food, attractions, and the markings for a general good time. Involvement
from the local shopping centers and businesses at the intersection will be
sought and residents in areas that may be disrupted will be notified. The
total cost for this event will not exceed $106,500 and these funds could be
made available by selling $150,000 of Proposition A Transportation
reserves. Many residents will be seeking close -to -home opportunities to
celebrate the new millenium and the chance for the City to conduct this
event is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
C/Ansari suggested corporate co-sponsorship of the event. She said she
received positive feedback from community members.
MPT/O'Connor said that she also received positive comments from
residents.
C/Herrera supported the idea of honoring this special event.
In response to C/Huff, CSD/Rose stated that the report is based upon
commitment of funds to support the event. Staff has made no effort to get
sponsorship to this point. It is intended as part of the process. However,
AUGUST 3, 1999
PAGE 16 CITY COUNCIL
until staff gets out into the marketplace, no commitments can be
made.
C/Huff suggested that if corporate sponsorships reach a certain
benchmark, the event will proceed and if the benchmark is not
reached, the event will not take place. He asked how the City will
handle the question of alcohol.
CSD/Rose stated that no alcoholic beverage is contemplated to be
sold or served within the fenced area.
Martha Bruske expressed opposition to the event and the expenditure
of City funds. She shared C/Huffs concerns about drinking.
Clyde Hennessee supported the idea.
Jack Gutowski opposed the idea. Spending $106,000 of taxpayer
money in this manner is irresponsible.
C/Herrera moved, C/Ansari seconded, to approve the proposed
community millenium eve celebration in an amount not to exceed
$106,500 and direct staff to offer for sale to the highest bidder,
$150,000 of Proposition A Transportation reserves to fund the event
and establish a subcommittee to plan, obtain financial support for,
obtain sponsorships for and conduct the event. Motion carried by the
following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Ansari, Herrera, MPT/O'Connor
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS - Huff, M/Chang
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS - None
C/Herrera moved, MPT/O'Connor seconded, to appoint
MPT/O'Connor and C/Ansari to serve as members of the Millenium
Eve Celebration subcommittee. Motion carried by the following Roll
Call vote:
AYES
NOES:
ABSENT
9. NEW BUSINESS:
COUNCIL MEMBERS -
COUNCIL MEMBERS —
COUNCIL MEMBERS -
None
Ansari, Herrera, Huff,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
None
None
RECESS TO REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING: M/Chang recessed the
City Council Meeting to the Redevelopment Agency at 11:17 p.m.
AUGUST 3, 1999
RECONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING:
Council meeting at 11:24 p.m.
PAGE 17 CITY COUNCIL
M/Chang reconvened the City
10. COUNCIL SUB -COMMITTEE REPORTS AND MEMBER COMMENTS:
C/Huff asked staff to clarify the policy for placing items on the agenda. He.
was disappointed that the Lanterman contract was not placed on tonight's
agenda as a result of his request. He asked for an update on the status of
the City's website. He spoke about attending an Arciero project homeowners
meeting. The Four Corners Commission is receiving data on options and
variables and it appears that the SR57/60 interchange is key to the area.
The Commission would like to hold a study session and invite Parsons-
Brinckerhoff to make a presentation regarding this matter.
C/Ansari asked the Council to reconsider bringing the Parks & Recreation
program in-house. She recommended a subcommittee be formed to
consider water issues and communicate with the water board. Allstate is
hiring at this time in Brea. And stated that they would hold a job fair and try
to hire people from D.B. She would like the City to talk with Allstate
regarding this issue. She congratulated Diamond Bar High School for
obtaining a digital grant for $850,000.
C/Herrera stated that the Lanterman Advisory Committee will next meet at
7:00 p.m. on September 20. She stated that the Council studied the issue
of bringing the Parks & Recreation program in-house and concluded that if
D.B. conducted the program, it would cost more because additional
personnel would have to be hired and equipment would need to be
purchased and that it was more cost effective to continue with the Brea
contract. She congratulated Captain Arthur Herrera on his promotion to
Commander of the Detective Division.
MPT/O'Connor believed it was the intent of VolunTeen and other recreation
programs to hire D.B. residents first. Different subcommittee meetings she
attended during the past two weeks included the 11th Anniversary
Celebration Committee, Finance Committee, and Code Enforcement
Subcommittee. All Council Members attended a meeting the previous
evening with Supervisor Don Knabe during which issues of mutual interest
were discussed. She asked that any residents who placed bulky items in
front of their house by the mandatory 6:30 a.m. deadline that were not picked
up to please call her at City Hall.
M/Chang said that in addition to subcommittee meetings previously
mentioned, he and ACM/Fritzal attended a JPIA Board meeting. A letter was
sent to Supervisor
Knabe asking for his help in getting permission for D.B. to use the D.B. Golf
Course parking lot and clubhouse for a possible community/civic center site.
AUGUST 3, 1999 PAGE 18 CITY COUNCIL
He announced that one of his rental properties burned and that his tenant
lost most of her personal goods. He reminded people to be sure that they
have their real and personal property adequately insured.
11. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to conduct, M/Chang
adjourned the meeting at 11:45 p.m.
ATTEST:
Mayor
<-*'-toL� �a�'gA�
LYNDA BURGESS, City Clerk