HomeMy WebLinkAbout4/5/2005 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
APRIL 5, 2005
STUDY SESSION:Mayor Chang called the Study Session to order
at 6:00 P.M. in Room CC -8 f the South Coast Air Quality Management
District/Government Center, 218 5 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA.
Present: Council Members Herrera. Zirbes, Mayor Pro
Tem O'Connor and Mayor Chan .
Also Present: Linda Lowry, City Manager; Michael Jenkins,
City Attorney; David Doyle, Assistant City Manager; James DeStefano, Assistant
City Manager; David Liu, Dire for of Public Works; Bob Rose, Community
Services Director; Linda Magn son, Finance Director; Sharon Gomez, Senior
Management Analyst; Fred Ala olholda, Senior Engineer; Ken DesForges, MIS
Director; Ryan McLean, Sr. Ma agement Analyst; Phyllis Young, Los Angeles
County Library; and Tommye Cri bins, Assistant City Clerk.
► Financing Options for Constructing a New Library:
ACM/Doyle presented staff's report stating the design submitted to the
California Library Bond Act Board was for a 24,000 sq. ft. facility with a
total project cost of about $10 million. Of this amount, approximately $7
million was directly attributable to construction and $3 million would be
used for purchasing add tion collection material, design, development of
construction documents and construction management costs. The City
would also incur additio al operational expenses that were estimated in
2004 to be about $270,0 0 (total annual operating cost - $1,380,000).
Options for funding a new library:
Option 1 — General Obligation Bond; property tax levy based on assessed
value of the homeowners' property. ACM/Doyle reported that once this
item goes on the ballot, the City is precluded from participating in
campaigning for or prorroting the measure and may act as a source of
information only. In or er for this or Option 2 to be placed on the
November 2005 ballot c rtain resolutions must be approved by the City
Council by July 4, 2005.
Option 2 — Mello -Roos District (Community Facilities District) requires a
super majority vote of the people. A tax would be imposed on any
reasonable basis, except property value, and if applied equally on all
properties would result in an annual assessment of about $35 per parcel.
This option could be used for capital facility construction as well as
ongoing maintenance and operation. The Council would set the rate each
year similar to the procedure for landscape and lighting assessment
district. However, the Council must stay within the maximum amount set
APRIL 5, 2005
PAGE 2 CC STUDY SESSION
forth by a vote of the people or go
would not anticipate a problem b
upfront costs for construction; and
full, the bond could be reduced to
costs only.
Option 3 — Lease Revenue Bonc
Center). This would not require a
internally financed through the Fin
the current situation there would bE
$640,000 repayment toward cons
year on-going operating expenses.
Option 4 — Use of General Fund
$180,000 per year in annual inters
million that was used to pay for on
MPT/O'Connor pointed out that th
library the more it will cost the City
ACM/Doyle responded that MPT
had heard from people in the it
increased significantly as materia
ick to the people for an increase. Staff
rause the biggest cost would be the
nce the construction debt was paid in
,mpensate for the ongoing operational
(as was done with the Diamond Bar
ote of the people because it would be
imcing Authority. The issue is that with
no revenue stream available to absorb
ruction plus an additional $370,000 a
serves would result in a loss of about
currently being generated on the $10
ing expenses.
longer the City waits to construct the
'Connor was correct and from what he
ustry construction material costs have
become less accessible.
FM/Magnuson stated that the General Fund set aside for Economic
Development was $10 million. Thin, idea of issuing the original bonds was
to have cash reserves to encourage economic development. In short, the
City has an unfettered Fund Balance reserve of $10,114,490.
FM/Magnuson and ACM/Doyle f
or so the City has used Gen
projects and general maintenar
state subventions or about $3.5
ACM/Doyle said that last night
the fact that the City's General
funding the library. Instead,
Library Facilities (Mello -Roos)
and ongoing operational costs
applying a rate payment.
C/Zirbes pointed out that if the
cost could be broken out much
for about seven years and then
cover the operating costs. He
away from the County and prov'
inted out that during the past two years
al Fund reserves to supplement CIP
due to the reduction in gas tax and
Ilion in the current fiscal year.
Library Task Force members discussed
nd would not be considered a source for
y recommended that Council use the
trict because it provided for construction
d also provided a consistent method for
ity applied Mello -Roos, the construction
Picker by applying a rate of $75 per year
wering the rate to about $20 per year to
ked if it would benefit the City to break
a "Diamond Bar Library" instead of a
APRIL 5, 2005
county library because t
the County?
ACM/Doyle said that C/Zi
outside providers it was d
about the same to oper
maintenance and
infrastructure costs incurr(
the collection cost could b
have to verify that fact witl
MPT/O'Connor asked if
his bond issue was torr
participating with D.B.
PAGE 3 CC STUDY SESSION
City would be able to get the money back from
es was correct. During initial discussions with
ermined that both types of facilities would cost
e except for some additional operating and
I for a City run facility. ACM/Doyle believed that
covered through Mello -Roos but said he would
the Bond Council.
e City had spoken with Supervisor Knabe since
I down about whether he would be interested in
ACM/Doyle said, not to d te, but the Task Force discussed that possibility
as well. Supervisor Knabe was requesting $20 million believing that he
would have access to ab ut 35 percent of that amount.
MPT/O'Connor suggestd approaching Supervisor Knabe for help in
defraying some of the cots.
ACM/Doyle said the Task Force wanted to know if the City was still willing
to commit $2.5 million toward the $10 million project.
C/Herrera said that based on the Fund Balance Reserve Projections and
ACM/Doyle's recommendation to retain about six months worth of
operating expenses, or $7.5 million on hand, 2.5 million expenditure to
help build the library wou d take the City down to no cash reserves.
Following a brief discuss
from economic develops
have the City diminish ii
time in particular it was
bringing in additional ta)
another $300,000 in r
$300,000 in maintenanc
$500,000 when Diamon(
Sigma Net, leaving the (
City continue its econom
paying for the current an
MPT/O'Connor sugge
Supervisor Knabe to d
on about the possibility of deferring some dollars
lent, C/Herrera said that she would not like to
economic development efforts because at this
most important for the City to find a method for
revenue dollars. The Diamond Bar Center adds
iaintenance expense and the library another
e expense. In addition, the City loses another
Bar Honda leaves, $360,000 on the departure of
ity behind the 8 -ball. Therefore, it is vital that the
c development effort in order to continue to afford
enities.
that staff or Task Force members meet with
line if he was interested in participating.
C/Zirbes asked Council if the City would be willing to offer its $2.5 million if
Supervisor Knabe offered his $7.5 million.
APRIL 5, 2005
PAGE 4 CC STUDY SESSION
M/Chang said the Task Force felt t
commitment to the community it
the bond issue. In order for Mell
would have to be a significant out
participate.
C/Zirbes asked Council to consk
with Mello Roos, and if so, did the
drop the construction cost down c
a library assessment district to bi
community rather have an LSSI-c
felt that residents, Friends of th
questions in order to better under
Force discussed the fact that the
wouldthe residents be paying ag
residents be amenable to an ;
Diamond Bar? Perhaps the residc
but it would be good to ask the qu
M/Chang felt that operational isst
Task Force concurred to keep t
serve the community until a new
the ultimate goal. He felt the Tas
more money to enhance the curr(
project.
zat if Council could show its $2.6 million
Could bolster the community to support
-Roos to succeed, for instance, there
reach campaign to get the residents to
er whether it wanted to move forward
Council want to contribute $2.5 million,
go with full consideration of proposing
ild a new County library; or, would the
ferated Diamond Bar Public Library. He
Library, etc. should be asked those
tand what the community wanted. Task
current facility is a County building and
;in to build a new County facility. Would
ssessment if the facility belonged to
its do not care who operates the library,
;stion before moving forward.
es could be addressed later. He felt the
ie existing library functional in order to
library was built, and a new library was
Force did not want to spend too much
nt facility because it was not a long-term
C/Zirbes felt as Chair of the Task Force that even if this item was to go on
the ballot in November and it was successful, it would be a minimum of
three years down the road to full occupancy. While there would not be a
significant amount of enhancements proposed for the current facility, there
were many things that need improvement in the interim to provide
adequate use to the community.
C/Herrera asked if the County ould sell its existing facility and use the
proceeds to construct a new fa ility if the City chose to pursue a new
County facility.
ACM/Doyle said that the City's Bond Act Application agreement with the
County contains language that states that if the County sold the building
the net profit would go into an a count to help deter and pay for ongoing
operating expenses associated with a new library. The problem is that it
would not be feasible to sell the current building until the new library was
built and operational. The agreement was rudimentary and details were
dependent upon whether the City was successful in obtaining grant funds.
ClZirbes pointed out that since the City had already invested $250,000,
there was also the option of waiting until 2006 for the next bond act
APRIL 5, 2005
application period for tl'
of the new $300 million
ACM/Doyle responded 1
commence construction it
funds. In fact, the City woL
documents because the
drawings as part of the bo
PAGE 5 CC STUDY SESSION
cities in the third cycle to re -apply for portions
ttruction funding.
MPT/O'Connor that if the City were to
Mould be precluded from applying for the grant
d be precluded prior to design and construction
)tate would have to approve the construction
process.
Responding to C/Herrera, ACM/Doyle said that D.B. would have to submit
another application and compete with other cities incorporated in the $300
million worth of applicatior s that were not funded in the third round.
C/Herrera said that one of the reasons D.B. scored low was its lack of
public transportation to th a proposed site. She asked if the City should be
pursuing public transportation with Foothill Transit or MTA to secure a bus
stop at the Diamond Bar Center site.
ACM/Doyle said that ini
providing a transit center.
CSD/Rose said there
turnaround area at the tol
C/Herrera asked if the lo%
CSD/Rose said that the t
ly there was excitement about the location
issues with the driveway and lack of
parking lot could be used as a drop off site?
sit people wanted a larger area.
ACM/Doyle reiterated that the grant board's rating was very subjective.
D.B. was down rated because the site was not in the downtown core and
the facility did not border Grand Ave. The facility was located at the top of
a hill and was viewed as preventing people from going to the library. Also,
public transportation had to be within '/4 mile and according to the review
the current library built in 1970 was "too new and modern."
MPT/O'Connor felt the C
ACM/Doyle said that if tl
on as a ballot measure
meet the July 4 deadline
measure would require
campaign issues. The i
However, an active can
conducted by individualE
should approach Supervisor Knabe.
ie Council saw any possibility of putting this item
staff would need direction very soon in order to
ACM/Doyle responded to C/Herrera that a ballot
a citizens' group to follow through with the
',ity Council could put a measure on the ballot.
paign to promote a "yes" vote would have to be
other than City staff.
APRIL 5, 2005
PAGE 6 CC STUDY SESSION
C/Herrera asked if campaigning sh
that the Council would receive 1
whether to initiate a ballot measure
CM/Lowry pointed out that when tt
telephone survey over 60 percent
paying a tax to support a new librar
M/Chang felt the Task Force was
effort.
Public Comments:
Marsha Hawkins said that the T.
and would participate in a cai
direction from the Council and
figure out what residents want.
Kathleen Newe said that the City
no library and that it would be 0
library system. She felt that reside
would be wonderful for the City C
beautiful library in D.B. now, becc,
back burner, and it would not ha
lament that the residents and the
had the chance to do so.
Steve Tye, Library Task Force
respectfully disagreed with MA
interested in improving the curr
Salinas let their library system er
the current facility the very best
commits to building a new facility.
make progress by waiting until
option would be considered.
Alan Wilson said he did not neo
felt the City should use the Pu
library with no additional costs to
Phyllis Young, Regional Admini:
Todd, County Librarian could p
might have chosen the Mello-Ro
M/Chang responded to Steve T -
wanted to improve the current f,
money accomplishing the tasks.
Id be part of the information analysis
make an informed decision about
City conducted the grant application
indicated they would vote in favor of
Iling to take the lead in the campaign
Force was anxious to move forward
gn. The Task Force was seeking
ted to work with the community to
f Salinas, John Steinbeck's home, had
largest city in the country without a
is tend to take the library for granted. It
iuncil to get behind the effort to build a
ase if it were put off it would go on the
pen. 10 years from now people would
City should have built a library when it
Member and Planning Commissioner
hang that the Task Force was not
int library. To Kathleen Newe's point,
)de and the Task Force wants to make
that it can be whether or not the City
He said she felt that D.B. was unlikely to
2006 and could not imagine why that
irily agree with a bond measure and
Financing Authority to build a new
property owners.
[tor, County Region said that Margaret
,ide information about other cities that
option.
that his point was that the Task Force
ity but did not want to spend too much
APRIL. 5, 2005
ADJOURNMENT: With
Council, M/Chang adjourned the
The foregoing minutes are he
EN CHANG, Ma
PAGE 7 CC STUDY SESSION
further business to come before the City
udy Session at 7:0 m.
i
inda C. Lowry, City erk
approved this 19th day of x , 2005.
MINUTE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETI G OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
APRIL 5, 2005
CLOSED SESSION: 5:30 pm., Room CC -8, SCAQMD/Government
Center Building, 21825 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765
► Government Code Section Conference with Real Property Negotiators.
Section 54956.8 (1 case)
Property Negotiations:
Address: Portion of Lot 1, Tract No. 1479, and Lot 61,
Tract No. 42557
Agency Negotiator: City Manager
Negotiating Party: D & L Properties, Inc.
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
STUDY SESSION: Mayor Chang called the City Council Study
Session to order at 6:00 p.m. in oom CC -8 of the SCAQMD/Government Center
Building, 21825 Copley Drive, Di mond Bar, CA 91765
► Financing Options r Constructing a New Library
M/Chang adjourned the Study S ssion to the Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Chang called the regular City Council
meeting to order at 7:10 p.m. in The Government Center/SCAQMD Auditorium,
21865 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Chang led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: None Offered.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Herrera, Zirbes, Mayor Pro Tem
O'Connor and Mayor Chang.
Staff Present: Linda Lowry, City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City
Attorney; David Doyle, Assistant ity Manager; James DeStefano, Assistant City
Manager; David Liu, Director of Public Works; Bob Rose, Community Services
Director; Linda Magnuson, Financ 3 Director; Nancy Fong, Planning Manager; Fred
Alamolholda, Senior Engineer; Marsha Roa, Communications & Marketing
Coordinator; Sharon Gomez, Se iior Management Analyst; Ken DesForges, IS
Director ; Ryan McLean, Senior Management Analyst; and Tommye Cribbins,
Executive Assist.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: OM/Lowry requested that Item 8.1 be continued to
the City Council meeting of April 10, 2005.
K,
APRiL 5, 2005 PAGE 2
CiTY COUNCIL
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES,
PROCLAMATIONS:
1.1 M/Chang presented CSD/Rose
with a Proclamation, proclaiming April
29, 2005 as Arbor Day.
clerk to provide staff with day-to-day
1.2 MPT/O'Connor read a Proclamation,
proclaiming April 2005 Child
Abuse Prevention Month.
the voting procedure such as different
1.3 C/Herrera read a Proclamat
on, proclaiming April 2005 Sexual Assault
Awareness Month.
for the June 7 election. Prior to
1.4 C/Zirbes presented the Proclamation
to Agnes Gibboney, West End
Chapter, proclaiming April
0-16, 2005 as "Victims' Rights Week."
1.5 M/Chang presented the Proclamation
to Irene Wang, proclaiming April
10-16, 2005 "National Libra
Week."
1.6 Sgt. Blasnek introduced Edwin Roberts, new motor traffic officer,
Diamond Bar/Walnut Sheriff's Station.
CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
CM/Lowry spoke about the Special
Election and stated that the City Council
approved a contract with Martin & Chapman
to conduct the election balloting
process. The City has also contracted
with Caroline de Llamos, an
experienced retired certified city
clerk to provide staff with day-to-day
operating advice and to work with the
candidates. On this occasion the voters
may experience some differences in
the voting procedure such as different
voting places. As soon as the County
Registrar certifies the precinct maps
the City will begin recruiting poll workers
for the June 7 election. Prior to
going to the poles, voters will have been
provided sample ballots in a fashion
similar to the way in which they have
received sample ballots in the past with
the recognizable red, white and blue
cover and maybe a Diamond Bar logo.
The ballot itself will contain the names
of the three candidates. Next to each
name will be a circle and the voter
will be instructed to fill in the circle of
choice with a black pen. Residents
who are permanent absentee voters
registered with the County Registrar
will receive their ballots by mail in a
yellow envelope from the City. The
voting system "Optimark" contains the
same information on absentee ballots
as regular ballots. On the evening of
the election the ballots will be tallied
by election consultant Martin &
Chapman, at the Diamond Bar Center.
The ballots will be canvassed later in
the week and the election results should
be ready for Council acceptance at
the regular meeting of June 215`
when the new council member will be
installed.
In response to MPT/O'Connor, CM/L Dwry explained that "canvassing" means
verifying the absentee ballots receiv d at the polls and any other provisional
ballots, and reconciling the data tot ie tabulation results.
APRIL 5, 2005
PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Department and the Fire
Osman Wei thanked the Sheriff's
Department for their quick response to the serious
five -car accident. He stated
that when a trespasser attempted to run the gate
at'The Country Estates" tie
Sheriff's Department responded quickly and that
he appreciated and thanked
them for their quick and efficient response. Mr.
Wei said that in the last couple
of days he and the Homeowners Association
received dozens of calls
protesting the placement of a campaign sign within
the gated community. "The
Country Estates" abides by the City Code that
allows campaign signs or
date and he wanted to know
private property 30 -days prior to the election
why the candidate would not follow the 30 -day
rule and why the City would
allow this to occur. How would a candidate
expect to be trusted when
they did not follow the rules and regulations of the
City? Does the political campaign
supersede the rules and regulations? He
hoped the City would instruct
the candidates to follow the rules.
Ling -Ling Chang presented
the City Council with a check from the Diamond
Bar Community Foundatin
in the amount of $6,139.00 representing 10
percent of the Diamond B
r Center tile sales.
Lydia Plunk, new Windmi 1 Editor, asked for assistance from Council, staff
and the community to provide pictures, press releases and advertising
dollars. Email the.windmill@verizon.net or fax 909-594-6241.
Andrew Forslund, 303 S. F
Industry's planned 600 de
the project had been in the
process, he and his neight
he visited City of Industry i
with Council Member ZirbE
the bulldozers would be
response to the EIR and
City's strong stance and i
monitor future developm(
announced and discusses
several Public Hearings. Sc
aware of the project. He a:
the project on its resident:
increased to more than 15(
hide the buildings more eff
Steve Tye commented on tl
how the City was seeking ►
tax income to enhance the
projects. One of the best
Trader Joe's in D.B. He sui
changed to a "Sears Esseni
tax revenue increase. What
opportunity to locate in this
slo Cedro Drive, said his property faces the City of
relopment surrounding Grand Ave. Even though
works for many years and had completed the EIR
ors found out about it only three weeks ago when
;ity Hall to ask about the project. He since spoke
s, staff and City of Industry staff and learned that
on-site in less than 60 days. He read D.B.'s
he City of Industry's reply and appreciated the
le fact that a Task Force had been created to
nt on the site. He appreciated that the City
the project in this forum and also conducted
mehow, not one single resident on his street was
ked for the City's help to mitigate the impacts of
He said he would like to have the buffer size
feet to 200 or even 300 feet and landscaped to
!ctively.
e important issue of economic development and
,ays to get reliable and steady sources of sales
;ity's ability to fund a new library and other City
sings the Council did was to attempt to get a
gested that with little effort the K -mart could be
al" and the City would realize a substantial sales
in exciting opportunity for D.B. to offer Sears the
;ity.
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
IV
Marie Buckland felt it was wrong
meetings. She said she hoped it
RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMI
ACM/DeStefano stated that with i
City has codes that deal with sic
seasons (temporary signs). The
location and period of placement.
placed on private property and th
within private gate -guarded comma
enforce their own rules, and the (
knowledge of them and does not e
any private communities. He, Ai
meeting during which the three Coi
sign criteria for the upcoming camp
of standards contained within the c
City's regulations and remove imps
have campaign speeches during Council
ould not happen again.
;NTS:
Dspect to political/campaign signage the
ns and codes dealing with the election
ode contains standards regarding size,
There is no discussion regarding signs
.re is no discussion about signs placed
nities. Private communities establish and
:ity takes no part. in those rules, has no
iforce any private regulations created in
;M/Doyle and CM/Lowry attended the
ncil candidates were informed about the
sign and were provided with the slip sheet
)de. The City will continue to enforce the
:)perly located signs.
ACM/DeStefano stated that the City
of Industry owns approximately 1000
acres behind Palo Cedro and Diamond
Bar Honda continuing to Valley Blvd.
Industry is presently working with Majestic
Realty to construct several million
square feet of industrial space on
the flat portion of the area. The hillside
portion, about 600 acres, is the area
where Industry has recently processed
and approved a plan to develop additional
millions of square feet of office
space, industrial space, retail space,
etc. Industry does not have specific
plans as to what each of the areas
Nill contain. D.B. submitted its initial six-
page letter containing comments
to Industry in December 2003/January
2004. Industry used the information
to construct an Environmental Impact
Report that it distributed for public
review in mid -2004. D.B. reviewed the
document and responded with a
13 -page letter to the City of Industry
outlining in greater detail traffic impact
concerns, land use compatibility
issues and concerns about items
earlier mentioned by the speaker this
evening. The two documents recommended
that aggressive setbacks, yard
area separations between buildings
proposed near the residential property,
extensive use of trees and other natural
barrier be used to help reduce visual
and noise impacts. The D.B. documents
addressed other issues including
odor and light indicating specifically
hat lights should be directed away from
residential properties. The July document
addressed traffic issues and the
impact that such a large project would
have on the City and more particularly
on Grand Ave. and adjacent streets.
As required by law, the City of Industry
completed their EIR in October and
therein responded to the City's July
comments. Most responses from Industry
were in short "thank you for your
comments." Many responses suggested
Industry would incorporate the types
of mitigation addressed in the City's I
9tters. However, they were unable to be
specific because, as Industry has ma
ntained throughout the process, they do
not know what will be developed. All
appeal periods have been exhausted,
and there is no way to challenge Industry's
Environmental document. The
project is moving forward. Most of the
grading that is currently apparent has
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
to do with soils and acce
commence within the ne;
that it would start sooner t
City discussions were cot
City County meetings.
newsletter to all residents
aware of community con{
D.B.
The project is a City of In(
land use decision-making
couple of years Industr
aesthetically pleasing buil
good landscaping and goy
Industry will provide the ty
it is Industry's project; they
are the "developer' in this
;s to the existing grazing. Construction will likely
couple of years, but D.B. has had no indication
an about one year. ACM/DeStefano stated that all
Jucted publicly through study session and formal
ast year the City sent a monthly community
iat highlighted this project on Page 2. Staff is very
arns and has requested that Industry work with
ustry document, and Industry maintains all of the
authority. He pointed out that during the past
has done a fairly good job of constructing
lings on Brea Canyon Road that are enhanced by
d setbacks from the street. Staff is confident that
ie of project that would meet D.B. needs. In short,
are the landowner and decision -maker; and they
project as it moves forward.
ACM/DeStefano stated that
with respect to the K -mart property, staff and the
Economic Development Subcommittee
of the City Council are very well
aware of the opportunities
that are present at that property site. The
Economic Development S
ibcommittee comprised of Mayor Chang and C/
Zirbes has been working with
staff and the owners of the property for the past
two years as K -mart has
bankruptcy. Unfortunately
progressed through several issues including
D.B. K -mart was not one of the many stores
closed. The center could
use significant revitalization and intensity of
development including res
aurants, retail and other land uses; Staff and the
Economic Development SL
bcommittee has worked with the property owner,
The Charles Company, to c,
ffect such an eventuality. At this point this store is
a prime candidate for Sear
new concept called "Sears Essentials." Staff has
direct access to the national
Essential is a small version
real estate director for Sears. The Sears
of Sears that utilizes the
Kmart buildings like the one
older 85,000 square foot
found in D.B. and is currently being rolled out in
Chicago and will go national
over the next three years. Staff is working with
the developer/property own
r to determine the appropriate new entity for the
site, whether it is a new
Essentials. As the speaker
version of Kmart or a new version of Sears
indicated, Sears is a much stronger brand and
has a much better relationship
to the D.B. customer and to the area
consumer. A Sears Essential
would be a big boost to D.B. Staff and the
Economic Development Su
Dcommittee is looking for much more; and news
of future projects at the site
will be revealed when available.
MPT/O'Connor responded to a speaker that she served on the Industry -East
Task Force in the area of Hampton Court off of Washington Street. The Task
Force was able to negotiate with Industry and Majestic Realty that they would
build a berm topped with trees and landscaping to help disguise the buildings
from the homeowners. She aid she could assure the homeowners on Palo
Cedro that D.B. would mak;sure that Majestic Realty and the developer
APRIL 5, 2005
PAGE
would install the necessary land;
concerns of the Task Force in
Hampton Court because they wi
the homeowner side. The Task F
so that the loading dock was situ
the homes thereby reducing the
machinery. Industry is very recep
about the placement of the pro
School. As ACM/DeStefano stat(
the City can do is attempt to mitis
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EV
CITY COUNCIL
:aping. Industry was very receptive to the
,onnection with the buildings closest to
1Id have trucks loading and unloading on
rce persuaded Industry to turn the building
ted on the opposite side of the building to
oise of the truck engines and the loading
veto changes. D. B. expressed its concern
pct in close proximity to Neil Armstrong
I Industry owns the property, and all that
ite its effects on D. B.
5.1
ACE OUTREACH MEETIN
(Brea Canyon Road Grade Separation
Project) — April 6, 2005 —
:00 — 7:30 p.m., Multi -Purpose Room,
Walnut Elementary School,
841 Glenwick Ave., Walnut.
5.2
PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING — April 12, 2005 — 7:00 p.m.,
Auditorium, AQMD/Govern
ent Center, 21865 Copley Dr.
5.3
NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC
MEETING — April 12, 2005 — Walnut
Elementary School., 841 G!
nwick Ave., Walnut.
5.4
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
COMMISSION MEETING —April
14, 2005 — 7:00 p.m., Hearing
Board Room, 21865 Copley Dr.
5.5
D.B. 16TH CITY BIRTHDAY
CELEBRATION — Sunday, April 17, 2005
— 12:00 — 6:00 p.m.
5.6 CITY COUNCIL MEETING April 19, 2005 — 6:30 p.m., Auditorium,
AQMD/Government Center, 21865 Copley Dr.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Zirbes moved, C/Herrera seconded to approve
the Consent Calendar as presented Motion carried by the following Roll Call
vote:
AYES: COUNCIL M
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBER
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBER
6.1 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Herrera, Zirbes, MPT/O'Connor,
M/Chang
None
None
6.1.1 Study Session of Mar h 15, 2005—As Submitted,
6.1.2 Regular Meeting of M rch 15, 2005 — As Submitted.
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
6.2 RECEIVED AND FILED TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION
COMMISSION M STING MINUTES — Regular Meeting of February
10, 2005.
6.3 RECEIVED AND FILED PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES — Regular Meeting of February 24, 2005.
6.4 RECEIVED AND FILED PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
MINUTES
6.4.1 Regular Meeting of February 22, 2005]
6.4.2 Regular Meeting of March 8, 2005
6.5 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER DATED APRIL 5, 2005 IN THE
AMOUNT OF $1,0 8,310.35.
6.6 REVIEWED AND APPROVED TREASURER'S STATEMENT— Month
of February 2005.
6.7 REJECTED CLAI1 FOR DAMAGES — Filed by Rocio Gamboa on
December 29, 200 .
6.8 RATIFIED INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 05(2005):
ADOPTED TO PROHIBIT THE ESTABLISHMENT OF MEDICAL
MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE
REQUIRED REPOF T REGARDING ACTIONS TAKE TO ALLEVIATE
CONDITIONS WHICH LED TO THE ADOPTION OF THE
ORDINANCE.
6.9 ADOPTED RESOI.
RANGES FOR
RESOLUTION N+
CREATING A STF
AND APPROVE
COMMUNITY SER
2004/05 BUDGET
6.10 APPROVED CONTF
FOR DESIGN ENGII
BOULEVARD AT M+
ROAD AT SILVI
MODIFICATION PF
AUTHORIZED A C
CHANGE ORDERS
FOR A TOTAL AUTF
TION NO. 2005-19: ESTABLISHING SALARY
.L CITY POSITIONS AND RESCINDING
2004-65 1N ITS ENTIRETY THEREBY
'ET MAINTENANCE WORKER 11 POSITION,
PERSONNEL MODIFICATIONS FOR
CES DEPARTMENT AS PRESENTED IN THE
)CUMENT.
4CT AMENDMENT WITH WARREN C. SIECKE
EERING SERVICES FOR THE DIAMOND BAR
1UNTAIN LAUREL WAY AND BREA CANYON
R BULLET DRIVE TRAFFIC SIGNAL
OJECT IN THE AMOUNT OF $6,000 AND
DNTINGENCY AMOUNT OF $1,000 FOR
"O BE APPROVED BY THE CITY MANAGER
ORIZATION AMOUNT OF $7,000.
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 0 CITY COUNCIL
6.11 APPROVED COST SHARING AGREEMENT FOR THE STATE
ROUTE 57/60 INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS FEASIBILITY
STUDY.
6.12 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2005-20: APPROVING
PARTICIPATION IN THE LOS ANGELES URBAN COUNTY
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM
AND THE EXECUTION OF THE 2006-2008 COOPERATION
AGREEMENT BETWEEN 40S ANGELES COUNTY AND THE CITY.
6.13 RENEWED LOS ANGELES COUNTY GENERAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT.
6.15 GRAND AVENUE BEAUTIFICATION/BETTERMENT PROJECT:
(a) AMENDED 2004/05
ANNUAL BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE
ADDITIONAL FUNDS
IN THE AMOUNT OF $690,000 FOR
PHASE ONE.
(b) APPROVED PLANS
AND SPECIFICATIONS AND AWARDED
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT
FOR PHASE ONE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $1,921,000
TO SEQUEL CONTRACTORS,
INC.; AND AUTHORIZED
CONTINGENCY AMOUNT OF
$279,000 FOR CO
TRACT CHANGE ORDERS TO BE
APPROVED BY TF
E CITY MANAGER FOR A TOTAL
AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT
OF $2,200,000.
(c) APPROVED AMENDMENT
NO. 2 TO CONTRACT WITH
DEWAN LUNDIN AND
ASSOCIATES IN THE AMOUNT OF
$78,025 PLUS A CONTINGENCY
AMOUNT OF $11,975 FOR
CHANGE ORDERS
TO BE APPROVED BY THE CITY
MANAGER FOR A TOTAL
AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT OF
$90,000.
MATTERS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
6.14 APPROVED LEGISLATIVE SUBCOMMITTEE
RECOMMENDATIONS INCLUDED IN STAFF'S REPORT.
In response to MPT/O'Co1
information regarding the by
request to oppose the propos
request that was brought by i
their jurisdictional area. She a
later time to give staff ad+
questions.
nor's comment, C/Herrera provided
Mt. SAC Community College Boards
,d expansion of the Mt. Sac Board. The
3sidents in the form of a petition within
geed the matter could be continued to a
itional time to comment to Council
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
SMA/McLean exp ained that this matter goes before the Commission
tomorrow. Mt. SA 's main concern is the increased insurance cost
and monthly stipends to the members of the board. They also stated
that over the last 5 years the five -person board has been successful
and that Mt. SAC ias received several awards along the way for its
performance.
M/Chang said that when he and C/Herrera received this letter it
discussed concerns of the trustee members about additional costs
and the processinc of future elections. He and C/Herrera felt that if the
current system wo ked well it should remain in place, and he asked for
City Council supe rt.
C/Herrera moved M/Chang seconded to approve Legislative
Subcommittee Recommendations as presented. Motion carried by the
following Roll Call vote with MPT/O'Connor abstaining from voting on
the Mt. SAC recommendation.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS
NOES: COU�CIL MEMBERS:
ABSENT: COU CIL MEMBERS:
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
cy
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION:
8.1 ADOPT RESOLUT
THE FACILITY USf
ESTABLISH A NEV
CENTER FOR
PROVIDE BENEF
SPONSORED BY -
Herrera, Zirbes,
MPT/O'Connor, M/Chang
None
None
aN NO. 2003-60E: APPROVING CHANGES TO
POLICY FOR THE DIAMOND BAR CENTER TO
VARIANCE THAT ALLOWS FREE USE OF THE
iOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS THAT
TS TO THE COMMUNITY OR ARE CO-
IE CITY — (continued to March 19, 2005)
9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS:
C/Herrera said that she wa
was returning from Wasl
California met with officia
transportation. She met wi
urged the federal legislator
of national significance bec
for more federal dollars. Th(
delivered from the ports by
evident that about 60 perce
rest of the country. When m
that train tracks will be expE
safer for the cars and decre
sorry she missed the fast Council meeting. She
ngton, D.C. where a large delegation from
to lobby for additional dollars for California
i many legislators and many in the delegation
to consider the Alameda East Project a project
fuse such a designation would render it eligible
rationale is that with the increase of goods being
ucks and trains easterly across the country, it is
t of goods received are making their way to the
re monies are available for the project, it means
ided. There will be grade separations making it
sing the noise level (less horn blowing as trains
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE h0 CITY COUNCIL
cross intersections), a reduction ill
regional pollution and a reduction in truck
traffic. Her returning plane was
delayed, and she encountered vehicular
accidents on every freeway she
traveled causing her to arrive just as the
meeting was ending. She encouraged
residents to attend tomorrow's very
important Industry East Project p
blic meeting. C/Herrera said she was very
pleased to represent the City Council
at the D.B. Little League opening
ceremonies. She was also pleased
to represent the City Council before the
delegation from Longpao, China.
She was sorry that the gentleman who
spoke about the Industry business
park left the meeting because she wanted
to tell him that Mayor Dave Perez
Industry City Hall to voice their concerns
told her about D.B. residents visiting the
and that Mayor Perez responded to
them that D.B. and Industry have
a good working relationship and that the
two cities would make every effort toward
staff for providing information regarding
noteworthy mitigation. She thanked
the upcoming election. She had a
number of questions for staff incl
ding who would serve on the absentee
ballot canvassing board the day
)efore the election and how were those
employees selected, and when "staff"
is referred to does it mean current City
staff or newly employed staff. She
had a number of questions and wondered
how it would best serve the community
to disperse the information such as
through a public study session. She
asked CA/Jenkins to comment on the
best method for getting questions
answered.
CA/Jenkins felt the best method would be that all concerned individuals
including Council Members would submit their questions to CM/Lowry in
writing. CM/Lowry and the cons ltant City Clerk would then prepare a
memorandum providing answers to all questions and the memorandum could
be made available to the Council and to the community. He advised caution
about getting too involved in the election process since it was a fairly
straightforward ministerial process run by the City Clerk's office. He
recommended against a meeting that could be misinterpreted to
involve a degree of inappropriate i volvement by the Council.
C/Herrera said she felt there was ar excellent discussion on the potential for
converting Kmart into a Sears. Economic Development is one of the City
Council's goals and also a goal of the residents. Because D.B. faces a loss of
about $800,000 in tax revenue as a result of losing major businesses, the
City needs to work very hard to generate additional sales tax dollars. She
hoped that staff would pursue discussions with Sears. She read an article
today about South EI Monte rejecting a strip club seeking permits. The
attorney threatened a lawsuit on behalf of the owner. The attorney in
question goes from city to city attempting to locate strip clubs and he has
already successfully obtained a $2 million judgment from the City of Anaheim
because they refused his permits. S uth EI Monte indicated that they would
rather pay the fine than have a strip club in close proximity to their schools.
She hoped that D.B. could be prostive in tightening its codes to prevent
such a scenario.
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
C/Zirbes said that he too had read the article and was interested in the
Council's position. He also found it humorous that the proposed club was
named after the attorney. Last night the Library Task Force met and
discussed options for bu Iding a new library. He encouraged residents to
participate in this very important discussion. Under consideration is how to
fulfill the dream to build a new and beautiful facility at Summitridge Park next
to the Diamond Bar Center, what can be done in the short term to enhance
the existing library, and th a services it provides to the community. He asked
residents to stay informed and participate in Council, Commission and Task
Force meetings. He suggested that M/Chang appoint a couple of Council
Members to serve on the Industry East Project Task Force and schedule
town hall meetings in the affected neighborhood close to Armstrong School.
C/Zirbes thanked the Sheriff's Department for ridding the pocket park at the
south end of town of drug E ctivities. As a result of suspicious activities arrests
were made during the pat weekend. The Sheriff's Department intends to
patrol the area now that i has been identified as a trouble spot. He also
thanked the Sheriff's Department and the Fire Department for responding to
a motorcycle accident on Site D. He felt it would be a good idea if staff and
Council took a proactive approach and talked about the possibility of a Sears
Essential locating at the Kmart site instead of across the freeway in the City
of Industry.
MPT/O'Connor agreed with C/Zirbes that M/Chang schedule a town forum at
Armstrong Elementary School. She reminded Council that she had asked for
such a town forum a year ago so that residents would not be caught off
guard. She felt that if the residents could realize what the Industry East Task
Force and staff had been able to do with the Alameda East project they
would feel more secure that the City was doing everything possible to work
with the City of Industry for adequate mitigation. She reminded residents that
the Diamond Bar Communi y Foundation has a landslide victims' fund set up
at PFF Bank at Grand Ave and D.B. Blvd to assist flood victims and
contributions are tax deductible. MPT/O'Connor said she was honored to
represent the City Council in Sacramento for Assembly Member Huff's first
bill hearing dealing with the zip code issue plaguing D.B. She and a resident
who lives in the affected area spoke on the issue. Assembly Member Huff
notified MPT/O'Connor latei that day that the bill passed out of committee on
a 6-0 vote. She said she had full confidence in staff that the vote counting for
the special election would be done very carefully and accurately. She was
pleased that staff and candidates received an email indicating that all
questions and concerns would be addressed and materials provided upon
request and candidates should feel free to contact staff with any concerns.
MPT/O'Connor pointed out that ACM/DeStefano has been working very
closely with Kmart and the property owner to revitalize the site. She asked
that tonight's meeting be ad ourned in memory of Pope John Paul ll.
M/Chang said that a new library was a top priority goal for the City Council
and felt that the Task Force would bring forth a suitable funding option. He
hoped that once a decision as made that the entire City would support it.
APRIL 5, 2005 PAGE )2 CITY COUNCIL
He said he would speak with Cit,
adequate mitigation for the IndL
document. He and C/Zirbes und(
the City of D.B. and the Econorr
forward to Kmart and Sears' merc
at the Kmart site in the future. MA
reach an agreement with Target
Grand. Construction is slated to
scheduled for October 2006. He
their tireless effort in getting Targ
participate in the City's 16" Birthd
beginning at 12:00 noon. He th;
Members for their representation
10. ADJOURNMENT: With no fui
the meeting at 9:00 p.m. in me
2005. The foregoing minutes are hereby
WEN CHANG, MAYOR ----
1
of industry Mayor Perez about providing
stry project in accordance with the D.B.
�rstand how important the Kmart site is to
is Development subcommittee is looking
ing and possibly having a Sears Essential
:hang said that the City was finally able to
for them to locate at Golden Springs and
commence this August with completion
hanked ACM/DeStefano and his staff for
at to locate in D.B. He asked residents to
ay celebration on April 17 at Pantera Park
inked C/Herrera and other City Council
at City functions.
business to conduct, M/Chang adjourned
of Pope John Paul II.
/NkAZC. LOWRY, CI CLERK
this"e 91h day of