Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2/6/2007 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION FEBRUARY 6, 2007 STUDY SESSION: M/Tye called the Study Session to order at 6:09 p.m. in Room CC -8 of the South Coast Air Quality Management District/Government Center, 21865 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA. Present: Council Members Chang, Herrera, Zirbes (telephonically), MPT/Tanaka and Mayor Tye. Also Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle, Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; David Liu, Public Works Director; Bob Rose, Community Services Director; Linda Magnuson, Finance Director; Nancy Fong, Community Development Director; Ryan McLean, Senior Management Analyst; Kimberly Molina, Assistant Engineer; Rick Yee, Sr. Engineer, Alfredo Estevez, IS Technician, and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk. Also present was Joel Falter, Consultant with Katz Okitsu and Associates. ► NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAM PILOT PROJECT: DPW/Liu reported the following percentage of residents were in support of the program: Area 1 — 59.9% support Area 2 — 50% Area 3 — Golden Prados 57.4, Rancheria/Jubilee 76.4% Area 4 — Maple Hill 58.7%, Cliff Branch 64.4% Area 5 — 41.6% DPW/Liu stated that staff sent out about 3820 invitations to the all -day open house. Approximately 100 residents attended the open house and offered their comments to staff. During the one-on-one dialogue sessions most residents while they did not like some of the measures felt the City was making a concerted effort toward improving the quality of life in their community. Overall it appeared from comments and input that the City had a very responsive program. The number one comment was "help us reduce speeding in our neighborhoods" and based on the data that goal has been achieved. Although some additional data is needed, staff is prepared to move forward with certain changes and modifications in accordance with the implemented measures. M/Tye pointed out that the response numbers were not accurate because the total number of responses per neighborhood should have been garnered from only a portion of the 104 attendees. Mr. Falter with Katz Okitsu and Associates stated that the intent of the questions contained in the survey were to determine sentiment and not intended to be considered "votes." FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 2 CC STUDY SESSION CM/DeStefano said that staff would rework the numbers and articulate the data in the regular meeting presentation. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Jo -Ann Carter, 1130 S. Calbourne Drive, wondered if the City intended to implement any mitigation measures on her street which is in Area 5 because she had never received any notices about neighborhood meetings. DPW/Liu stated that staff received additional requests from other areas including Calbourne and would be looking into the matter. ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, M/Tye adjourned the Study Session at 6:35 p.m. ti 4 TOMMYE tRIBBINS, City Clerk The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 20th day of February, 2007. 7,j: --,- STEVE T ayor 1 1 MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR FEBRUARY 6, 2007 CLOSED SESSION: 5:30 p.m., Room CC -8 ► Government Code Section 54956.9(a) — Pending Litigation — Two cases 1) People of the State of California v. Ratan Hospitality, LLS (Scribbles) Case No. BC351925 2) Diamond Bar v. Southern California Edison LACSCC — No. BC351266 ► Government Code Section 54956.8 — Conference with Real Property Negotiator Property Address: Agency Negotiator: Under Negotiation: Summitridge Mini -Park APN #8701013902 City Manager Price and Terms Public Comments on Closed Session Agenda: Closed Session adjourned at 6:07 p.m. STUDY SESSION: 6:09 p.m., Room CC -8 ON. Neighborhood Traffic Management Program Pilot Project Study Session adjourned at 6:35 p.m. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Tye called the Regular City Council meeting to order at 6:43 p.m. in The Government Center/SCAQMD Auditorium, 21865 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA. CA/Jenkins reported that during tonight's Closed Session no public comments were received and that Council discussed the items listed on the agenda with no reportable actions taken. Closed Session was adjourned at approximately 6:07 p.m. to the Study Session. M/Tye reported that tonight's Study Session included a staff presentation regarding the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program Pilot Project, which is also included in tonight's regular meeting. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: C/Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance. INVOCATION: gave the invocation. Ab Kastle, Diamond Canyon Christian Church FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL ROLL CALL: Council Members Chang, Herrera, Zirbes, (telephonically), Mayor Pro Tem Tanaka, and Mayor Tye. Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle, Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; Bob Rose, Community Services Director; Nancy Fong, Community Development Director; Linda Magnuson, Finance Director; Ryan McLean, Senior Management Analyst; Rick Yee, Senior Engineer; Kimberly Molina, Assistant Engineer; Joyce Lee, Management Analyst; Alfredo Estevez, IS Tech and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk. APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As Submitted. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS: 1.1 M/Tye presented a Certificate of Recognition and City Pin to Suzanne Middle School teacher Helen Papadopoulous, California Teacher of the Year for 2007. Jody Roberto representing Assemblyman Bob Huff's office also presented a Certificate to Ms. Papadopoulos. BUSINESS OF THE MONTH: 1.2 M/Tye presented a City Plaque to Mr. G's Pizzeria & Pasta Restaurant, 2767 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard (Country Hills Towne Center) as New Business of the Month for February 2007. Owners Mary and Meddy Gorgani attended later in the evening. 2. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: 2.1 January 20, 2007 E -Waste Collection Event MA/Lee reported that on January 20, 2007 the City in partnership with ARC International Corporation hosted an E -Waste Collection event in the City Hall parking lot. MA/Lee gave a power point presentation depicting the event that resulted in the collection of 54,184 pounds collected for recycling and diversion from the landfill. The collection included 24,675 pounds consisting of 189 televisions and 402 computer monitors; 182 pounds of batteries; 29,327 pounds of other electronics; 110 fluorescent tubes. As a result of this event ARC will refund to the City $4,935 for the TV's and monitors. The monies will be used for future recycling programs and for the residents of D.B. The City plans another E -Waste Collection event in about six months. 2.2 MTA Bus Route 684 Status Update DPW/Liu stated that Route line 684 currently runs from the Brea Mall through D.B. via Diamond Bar Blvd. concluding at the Pomona Transit Center. At this point Foothill Transit is interested in modifying their FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL Route Line 193 to possibly provide service through D.B. to the Brea Mall. Foothill plans to recommend this modification to their Board in early February and Foothill staff has been directed to determine whether the consolidation is possible. If approved, the recommendation will be taken to the governing board in May for consideration and final approval. If approved, the updated line could begin operating in September 2007. MTA indicated to staff that should the Foothill proposal be approved they would not cancel their line 684 until September 2007 to provide a seamless transition. 2.3 Caltrans State Route 57/60 HOV/Carpool Lane Update. DPW/Liu reported that last Friday Caltrans reopened the westbound SR60 at Brea Canyon Rd. and the carpool lane interchange is scheduled to open by the end of February. 3. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Julie McCasland, Diamond Bar Library Children's Librarian, announced events scheduled for February 2007 and provided flyers indicating dates, times and performers/events. She invited Council and the public to participate. Michael Spence, 21825 Narato PI., announced that on March 12th D. B.H.S. would host its first Swim Meet at Walnut High School beginning at 12:00 noon. He invited the Council and residents to come out and support the Diamond Bar High School Swim Team. Allen Wilson said he was concern about an article that appeared in the San Gabriel Valley Tribune last week about the City's possible participation in the AERA Energy Project and the proposal to gain a retail center/hotel by moving the existing golf course. He wanted to know if there was a potential buyer for the existing golf course property and whether a vote would be held to determine whether the property would be rezoned under a General Plan amendment from Open Space to Retail. 4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENTS: CM/DeStefano responded to Mr. Wilson by stating that the City Council has been looking at the possibilities of how to enhance the local revenue base in order to pay for ongoing services as well as, new and expanded services into the future. Staff is looking at the potential re -use of various properties within the City including the golf course. As one of its goals and objectives the City Council has asked staff to begin exploring these properties and issues. This exploration will lead to a great amount of public dialogue on potentially doing something with the existing golf course. The County of Los Angeles owns the property and as such, any and all efforts to do anything with the property would require the approval of the County. There has been no specific plan proposed. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL There is no buyer and the property is not being marketed. It is being explored for potential use other than a golf course. The City is at the very preliminary stages of such an exploration and will be communicating with the public within the next few months with regard to the possibilities — not what the staff or Council wants, but to talk with the community about what it wants. The community has, over the years, indicated it wants more places to shop, eat and to go for entertainment. The golf course creates a potential site for that type of environment as well as a potential site for new housing, more public uses, more park and recreational use, and so forth. The golf course will be impacted in future years with a likely expansion of the SR57/60 freeway to deal with the weaving problems and increase in vehiculartrips. No decisions have been made regarding the existing golf course property other than for the Council to ask staff to begin preliminary studies and nothing will occur without extensive public input. The County of Los Angeles has indicated that it would not allow the golf course to be eliminated as an asset from the County's system. Thus, the City has been exploring the possibility of relocating the golf course to a location within or immediately adjacentto D.B. Accordingly, the City Council has publicly decided to seek acquisition of property south of Pathfinder Rd. west of the current City limits. Adjacent to that property is the AERA Energy proposal and AERA has approached D.B. regarding consideration of their proposal to develop a residential home project that includes parks, fire stations, schools, etc. That project also has many years of process in its future. The City Council will take a close look at whether such a project is appropriate for D.B. through public meetings and public hearings. D.B. is a long way from deciding whether it is appropriate to engage in entertaining approval of that type of a project. C/Herrera asked if the golf course was designated as Open Space and would require a vote to re -designate. CM/DeStefano responded that the golf course was designated in the City's Master Plan as "Golf Course" which is different from the General Plan designation and its discussion about open space. In 1999 the City Council acted to change the General Plan to state that any property that was designated "open space" would require a vote of the people in order to change its designation. The golf course property has more of a commercial/recreational category designation known as "Golf Course" and does not require a vote of the people to change the designation. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS: 5.1 Traffic and Transportation Commission Meeting — February 8, 2007 — 7:00 p.m., Hearing Board Room, AQMD/Government Center, 21865 --- Copley Dr. 5.2 Planning Commission Meeting — February 13, 2007 — 7:00 p.m., Auditorium, AQMD/Government Center, 21865 Copley Dr. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL 5.3 President's Day Observance — February 19, 2007 — In observance of President's Day, City Offices will be closed. City Offices will reopen Tuesday, February 20, 2007. 5.4 City Council Meeting — February 20, 2007 — 6:30 p.m., Auditorium, AQMD/Government Center, 21865 Copley Dr. 5.5 L.A. County Household Hazardous Waste/E-Waste Round Up — February 24, 2007 — 9:00 a.m. — 3:00 p.m. — Gateway Corporate Center, 1300 Block of Bridge Gate Dr. 6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Chang moved, C/Herrera seconded to approve the Consent Calendar as presented. Motion carried by the following Roll Call: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes 6.1 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6.1.1 Study Session of January 16, 2006 — as Submitted. 6.1.2 Regular Meeting of January 16, 2006 — as Amended. 6.2 RECEIVED AND FILED PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES — Regular Meeting of December 12, 2006. 6.3 RECEIVED AND FILED PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES: 6.3.1 Regular Meeting of September 28, 2006 6.3.2 Regular Meeting of November 16, 2006 6.4 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER—containing checks dated January 11, through January 31, 2007 totaling $1,433.565.06. 6.5 APPROVED TREASURER'S STATEMENT — month of December 2006. 6.6 REJECTED CLAIMS: a) Filed by William Schoenhofen on December 5, 2006 b) Filed by Daniel J. Koretoff on October 27, 2006. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL 6.7 APPROVED EXONERATION OF SURETY BOND NO. 6042581 IN THE AMOUNT OF $160,000 AND BOND NO. 6110216 IN THE AMOUNT OF $8,000 POSTED BY PULTE HOME CORP. FOR TRACT NO. 52267 TO COMPLETE DOMESTIC AND RECLAIMED WATER IMPROVEMENTS AND DECK REMOVAL. 6.8 TRANSMITTED COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE GOVERNMENTAL FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2006. 6.9 APPROVED REQUEST FOR FINAL PAYMENT OF $8,000 FROM THE COALITION FOR PRACTICAL REGULATION (CPR) FOR THE TRASH TOTAL MAXIMUM DAILY LOAD (TMDL) APPEAL LITIGATION 6.10 DENIED REQUEST FOR $6,000 FROM THE COALITION FOR PRACTICAL REGULATION (CPR) FOR THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES) PERMIT LITIGATION. 6.11 APPROVED RESOLUTION NO. 2007-06: APPROVING FINAL PARCEL MAP NO. 61702 FOR THE SUBDIVISION OF A 13.69 ACRE SITE (TARGET DEVELOPMENT) INTO THREE PARCELS LOCATED ON THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF GOLDEN SPRINGS DRIVE AND GRAND AVENUE RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2007-04 IN ITS ENTIRETY. 6.12 AWARDED CONTRACT TO ADVANCED INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $46,600 FOR INFRASTRUCTURE VALUATION AND ASSET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN ACCORDANCE WITH GASB34, 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 7.1 CONSIDERATION OF GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2005-01, ZONE CHANGE NO. 2006-03, DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT 2005- 01, SPECIFIC PLAN NO. 2005-01, VESTING TENTATIVE TRACT NO. 63623, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2005-01, DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2005-27 AND TREE PERMIT NO. 2005-06, PURSUANT TO THE SUBDIVISION MAP ACT, CITY'S SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE (TITLE 21) AND DEVELOPMENT CODE (TITLE 22, SECTIONS 22.22, 22.387, 2248, 2258, 22.60, 22.70 AND 22.62). THE PROPOSED PROJECT CONSISTS OF A 99 -UNIT SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION, A PUBLIC PARK AND OPEN SPACE AREAS ON APPROXIMATELY 34.52 ACRES, LOCATED ON PROPERTY SOUTH OF LARKSTONE DRIVE, WEST OF MORNING SUN AVENUE, WEST OF BREA CANYON ROAD, AND NORTHWEST OF PEACEFUL HILLS ROAD. (RELATED FILE: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT NO. 2005- FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL 01). (CONTINUED FROM DECEMBER 19, 2006 and JANUARY 16, 2007) DCM/DeStefano recommended that the City Council reopen the Public Hearing to receive testimony and continue the matter to February 20, 2007 to allow time for the applicant to complete traffic studies for the proposed project. M/Tye reopened the Public Hearing. Kingdon Chew, 20447 Tam Oshanter Dr. recommended that with the increased traffic from the proposed project a stop sign be placed on Colima Rd. and Walnut Leaf Dr.; stop signs on Wind Terrace and Leann Terrace at the Walnut Leaf Dr. entry; and on Walnut Leaf Dr. two stop signs southbound and northbound; speed humps at the golf course; stop signs on both sides of Tam Oshanter at the intersections of Chapel Hill Dr. and at Chapel Hill Dr. southbound and two additional stop signs on Chapel Hill Dr. north and southbound; and, also consider speaking with the Rowland Heights school bus director to consider moving the school bus stop on Walnut Leaf to provide for a line of sight in both directions. Russell Kepler, 1522 Dab Court (at Larkstone) said he was not necessarily opposed to the project and understood that there would be only one ingress/egress from the project and one emergency ingress/egress. He encouraged the City to include two ingress/egress points, one at Morning Sun and one at Larkstone. He commented on the traffic study and encouraged implementation of traffic calming measures to ensure the safety of school children. He asked for clarification about how far the entry would be from the back of his back wall, whether there would be some kind of sound abatement and whether landscaping was planned behind his home. Kurt Nelson, applicant, said that the augmented traffic information would address the speakers' concerns. He concurred with staffs recommendation to continue the public hearing to February 20, 2007. C/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded to continue the matter to February 20, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL 7.2 RESOLUTION NO. 2007-07: CONSIDERATION OF A COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM NO. 2006-04, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2007-01 AND VARIANCE NO. 2006-04 PURSUANT TO THE DEVELOPMENT CODE TITLE 22, SECTIONS 22.36.060, 22.58 AND 22.54. THE PROPOSED PROJECT CONSISTS OF A COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM FOR THE COUNTRY HILLS TOWNE CENTER, A VARIANCE TO REDUCE THE REQUIRED MONUMENT SIGN SETBACK FROM PROPERTY LINE AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR MODIFICATIONS TO AN EXISTING NON -CONFORMING PYLON SIGN. CDD/Fong presented the staff report. The proposed sign program consists of two center identification monument signs, two monument tenant identification signs flanking the center's entry; three sets of monument signs perpendicular to Diamond Bar Blvd.; one combined for Burger King and KFC and another sign for multi -tenant identification. Staff believes that there is sufficient justification for the monument sign to remain in its current location and include a new sign to set back two feet from the property line. Also proposed is a set of on-site directional signs to point drivers to specific types of tenants. Two additional monument signs lie on each of the side streets, Cold Springs and Fountain Springs to identify types of businesses. The current code does not include the type of pylon sign that exists; however, through the Conditional Use Permit the sign could be maintained and renovated to what has been proposed. During its review the Planning Commission suggested the applicant place street numbers on the pylon sign to identify addresses. Also proposed are wall signs for the buildings that house some of the major tenants. The applicant has proposed that the wall signs provide 25% of the space for non-English signage. On January 23rd the Planning Commission reviewed the sign program, found that it met the code and recommended City Council approval of Sign Program No. 2006-04, Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-01 and Variance No. 2006-04. CDD/Fong confirmed to C/Herrera that 75% of the sign face would contain English characters and numbers and the remaining 25% could contain non-English characters and numbers. M/Tye referred to Page 7 of the insert and asked if there were 10 monument signs proposed for this project. He said he could not think of another project in D.B. that had so many monument signs. CDD/Fong agreed and stated that the Comprehensive Sign Program allowed flexibility. The Sign Ordinance also allows different types of monument signs i.e. center identification signs, tenant identification signs, etc. and could also maintain the existing pylon signs. Three monument signs exist, one of which belongs to and is owned by AAA. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL This shopping center is very different from other shopping centers in D.B. For example, the center is 20 ft. below street level and is very difficult to view from the street and all of the tenants need exposure to the street grade. M/Tye opened the Public Hearing. With no one present who wished to speak on this item, M/Tye closed the Public Hearing. M/Tye felt the proposal was aesthetically pleasing and that D.B. would be able to enjoy a completely refurbished center. He was concerned about the number of signs and asked Mr. McCarthy to understand that the City Council would do everything possible to help him make the center profitable and hoped that Mr. McCarthy would give the same consideration to his tenants. C/Chang thanked staff for a good presentation. The project is moving forward and the property owner is realizing his commitment to revitalize the center. He was very happy that non-English lettering would not exceed 25% because D.B. wants to be friendly to everyone. The shopping center is very accessible and parking spaces are ample in size. C/Chang moved, C/Tanaka seconded to approve Sign Program 2006- 04, Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-01 and Variance No. 2006-04. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes 8. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: 8.1 RESOLUTION NO. 2007-08: AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2006- 07 MUNICIPAL BUDGET. FD/Magnuson reported that the mid -year budget amendment proposes that the estimated General Fund resources be increased by $572,420 to a total of $23,782,780. Included in the revenue changes are slight adjustments to property taxes and other taxes to more closely reflect the actual revenues received so far this fiscal year. State subventions were increased by $138,450 to reflect higher than anticipated vehicle license fee, property tax and in -lieu fee payments. Other major revenue adjustments have to do with developer related fees such as the planning developer fees in the amount of $290,000 FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 10 CITY COUNCIL and traffic mitigation fees amounting to $246,000, which were received as a result of the Target and Brookfield Homes development. The changes in the General Fund expenditures total an increase of $63,860. These changes include an increase to the Special Legal Services to cover additional costs associated with various lawsuits that have confronted the City. The General Government Professional Services Expenditure Account has been increased by $60,000 to pay for property tax administration charges assessed by Los Angeles County. Law Enforcement Fees have increased by $70,000 for Special Event Fees, an amount offset by revenues. Staff believed that once Target and Brookfield projects were completed traffic enforcement would no longer be needed for Calvary Chapel traffic enforcement. However, enforcement continues. The Building and Safety Contract and Services Budget were decreased by $20,450 to partially fund a new City permit technician. Salaries and benefits were increased for Community Services by $86,310 to eliminate staff charges in the Landscape and Lighting Assessment Districts. As an offset, staff eliminated the $90,000 budget for landscaping for City owned land at Brea Canyon Rd. and Diamond Bar Blvd. Decreases in the Public Works and Engineering contract services are due to less than anticipated development activities that require inspection and plan check. The amendment proposes changes to several CIP projects. Overall, the mid -year budget amendment proposes an increased estimate in revenues of $1,076, 940 for all funds and an overall increase in appropriations of $465,970 for all funds for an overall increase in fund balances throughout the City including General Fund and Special Funds of $610,870. If the City Council chose to include the "Movies Under the Stars" program the anticipated cost for FY06/07 would be $24,300 for the purchase of the projector, screen, advertising, etc. If approved, the mid -year budget would be modified accordingly. CM/DeStefano stated that revenues exceed expenditures. Staff is requesting Council consideration regarding incorporation of "Movies in the Park" to allow sufficient time to plan a summer series. The $24,000 figure includes the cost of equipment that would be used for many years hence rather than renting the equipment at a very high cost each year. Thereafter, an annual cost of about $4,000 is assumed for seven nights of movies to be coordinated with seven concerts in the park during the summer with movies to be shown free of charge immediately following the concert in the park. CM/DeStefano assured the City Council that the financial state of the City remained strong. C/Herrera said she appreciated staff s diligence and also appreciated current and past Councils that have consistently spent wisely and amassed reserves of nearly $30 Million, which has allowed the City to build a community center and continue to take in more than it spends. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL As a result, she supported all of staffs recommendations. C/Chang agreed with C/Herrera's comments. The City continues to spend its money wisely while continuing to improve the quality of life. There was no one present who wished to speak on this item. C/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded to adopt Resolution 2007-08. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes 8.2 CONSIDERATION OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (NTMP) PILOT PROJECT. PWD/Liu presented the staff report that contained background information, results of the survey and open house and recommendations. Joel Falter, Katz Okitsu & Associates gave a power point presentation and overview of the NTMP project from October 2005 to date. He explained the types of mitigation measures installed in the fall of 2006 for each of the five areas. Typically, it is recommended that these pilot measures be monitored for at least six months prior to making recommendations. Since there was a high level of pubic interest it was decided to move forward to determine whether to continue as prescribed or make adjustments. Mr. Falter explained that staff asked for feedback from the residents and overall there is a positive reaction to the program thus far. In Area 1 about two-thirds find the program effective, the community is split about 50/50 as to whether they like the particular tool that was installed and about 60% want the program continued. Data forArea 2 is similarto Area 1 with slightly more than half of the residents favoring the program and about 50/50 as to whether they like the tool that was installed. On Castle Rock about 55% of the people do not like the program and there is a 50/50 split as to whether people want to see the program continued. Area 3 residents were most vocal. The data shows that volumes have remained about the same, there have been some reductions in speed and some have stayed the same. The primary tool on Rancheria that has generated a lot of public interest and discussion is a temporary traffic circle. It is very clear from the comments received that over 80% of the people do not find the tool effective and almost two-thirds of the residents do not want the program to continue on their street. On Golden Prados a little more than half of the people find the program effective, they like the tool that has been installed and want FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL the program continued. Changes in Area 4 have produced minimal changes but staff believes the tools are valuable in slowing traffic. Comments from residents on Maple Hill and Cliffbranch have been mostly positive, they like the tools that were installed and want the program continued on their streets. There have been reductions in travel speeds in Area 5. Nearly 60% of residents in this area found the devices were not effective and a little more than half do not want the program continued and clearly do not want the tools on their street to be maintained. DPW/Liu stated that based on the data the goals have been achieved. However, there have been traffic volume changes on selected roadway segments, specifically in the Lycoming and Glenwood neighborhoods and these anomalies can be attributed to the closing of Brea Canyon Rd. causing motorists to use Lycoming as an alternative route. Staff continues to monitor the situation with the Sheriffs Department. In addition, staff has received comments that there is increased traffic on Bower Cascade and Charmingdale. Accordingly, staff will recommend to the City Council that this evaluation process continue to make sure that the changes are not causing negative impacts to adjacent streets. In Area 1 the most common comment is that residents want speed humps instead of speed bumps. Residents in Area 2 do not like the Texas dots. Residents of Castle Rock requested speed cushions between Fountain Springs and Cold Springs. Residents on Golden Prados would prefer stop signs instead of Texas dots. Residents on Rancheria and Jubilee feel the tools are a waste of money, they like speed cushions and prefer stop signs instead of Texas dots. In Area 4 the Maple Hill residents have requested installation of devices on adjacent streets. Cliffbranch and Bella Pine residents like the speed cushions and adjacent residents want measures on their streets. In Area 5 there were several comments about residents wanting a traffic signal and comments about cut -through traffic. Staff also received comments from residents who were in favor of the tools and others that wanted the tools removed. Based on data received today and staff's observations and analysis, staff recommends some field modifications to the prior projects. 1) removal of the two traffic circles from Rancheria Rd; 2) removal of the Texas dots from Golden Prados at Hopi St.; 3) removal of the Texas dots from Fountain Springs; 4) removal of some of the Texas dots on Maple Hill that prevented adequate ingress/egress of the Maple Hill Elementary School and Maple Hill Park driveways; 5) add additional advisory speed signage at various locations in coordination with the speed cushions; 6) continue to evaluate and consider the reduction of speed cushions along Sunset Crossing Rd.; and, 7) continue to work with the community to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the remaining pilot program approvals that were installed and continue to work with the Sheriff's Department to monitor the traffic operations in the FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 13 CITY COUNCIL program areas to ensure motorist compliance with all traffic regulations. DPW/Liu stated that in order to refine the City's Neighborhood Traffic Management Program process, staff further recommends that clarifications be made to the current manual and guidelines adopted by the City Council on October 4, 2005. These changes would qualify how residents would initiate the process (Section 1.4.1). Bullet 1 would be changed to read: "The City receives a written request to mitigate a traffic concern..." and add "by a petition of 51 percent of the households on the affected streets." Bullet 3 would be changed to read. "a meeting for the residents along the affected streets will be held to discuss their concerns and gather firsthand information." DPW/Liu concluded that the NTMP represents the City's commitment to the safety and livability of every neighborhood. The pilot project serves as a demonstration to residents and the traffic calming measures serve as visual examples. The ultimate solution requires changing driving and travel behavior and this process provides a method for residents to identify, prioritize and address neighborhood traffic problems. The process requires careful planning, a willingness to change habits and community consensus -building. Staff recommends that the City Council approve modifications to the existing Neighborhood Traffic Management Program pilot project areas as identified and continue to monitor the program overthe next five months at which time additional speed and volume data would be collected. Once a thorough engineering analysis is completed staff would return to Council with a final report of the pilot projects. Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file tonight's presentation, approve the proposed modifications, direct staff to continue engineering evaluation of the pilot projects and approve the modifications to the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program Manual and Guidelines. C/Herrera asked if there would be replacement tools put in place with the removal of the traffic circles on Rancheria. DPW/Liu responded that the residents have asked for installation of stop signs and the first step in the process would be for staff to conduct a stop sign warrant study in accordance with the required criteria. The results of the study will be presented to the residents and if stop signs are not warranted staff will ask the residents to consider other options. M/Tye asked if the curb south of Northminister Church would be restored when the traffic circles were removed. DPW/Liu responded affirmatively. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 14 CITY COUNCIL M/Tye remarked that the January 20 open house was an outstanding presentation by staff and the City's consultants. He thanked residents for attending and expressing their concerns and felt it was a great learning experience for all involved. Jo -Ann Carter, 1130 S. Calbourne Dr. commented that there was extensive speeding on her street and that it was being used by cut - through traffic from Walnut Springs Dr. to Walnut Dr. South. She said the problem was brought to the attention of the Traffic and Transportation Commission several months ago at which time she was told that a neighborhood survey would be conducted and questionnaires would be sent out to the residents, neither of which was done. She attended the open house and felt staff was very accommodating and that the event was very informative. She asked that her area be considered for traffic control mitigation and that Sgt. Blasnek had committed to checking out the area on a regular basis. She said she felt she lived in the outcast part of D.B. Mike Jestrab, 435 Charmingdale Rd. stated that he and some of his neighbors were never notified about any neighborhood meetings. He asked that when changes are contemplated in neighborhoods, that all affected residents be notified prior to the City making changes. He became involved after the Texas dots were installed. Rancheria/Casa Loma intersection is a three-way intersection and the Texas dots slow the traffic coming off of Rancheria but do not slow the traffic coming down the hill. He felt the data compiled by staff was not representative of the residents' concerns. He said he was also concerned whether fire trucks would be able to navigate through the area and the fact that there were no options for enforcing Texas dots. Gil Jones, 23527 Casa Loma Dr., said he was pleased to learn that the circles would be removed from Rancheria and Casa Loma. He was never notified about any meetings and was not aware of the installation of calming devices until he saw the dots being installed. He was also concerned about whether anyone was looking at the feasibility of these devices prior to installation because taxpayer dollars were being spent on these tools. Navanit Lal, 23577 Jublilee Ln. presented a petition to the City Council signed by 22 residents who were in favor of removing the Texas dots and the speed bumps on their street as soon as possible. Nashita Lai, also of 23577 Jubilee Ln. said that children were always playing inside the circle and she felt it presented a hazard to their safety. Also, there are a number of elderly and disabled individuals who live on the street and the dots seem to cause more problems for them. There is not a lot of traffic volume. However, people speed down the hill. She would appreciate it if there were "yield" signs FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 15 CITY COUNCIL placed at every corner adjacent to the traffic circles because there is no signage it causes confusion and near collisions when people do not realize they are approaching a traffic circle. If the traffic circles were removed it would be better to place the stop or yield signs on the opposing streets and not the main street. She suggested that in the future staff place a large sign on the street to notify residents about projects. There was a sign on Goldrush that indicated the area was being patrolled and felt similar signs in other areas would be a great deterrent. Craig Clute, 21217 Fountain Springs Rd. said he receives and reads all notices regarding these and other City issues. He opposes removal of the mitigation measures and opposes additional signage impacts. He voiced his support for what staff, City Council and the Traffic and Transportation Commission have continued to pursue with projects such as the NTMP program. These types of projects require patience and persistence on the part of staff, engineers and residents in finding compromising solutions for some of the City's worst traffic issues especially in residential areas, near schools, parks and churches. For ten years residents have asked the City to mitigate and M/Tye closed public comments. manage traffic concerns. In the past the City has supported hiring more law enforcement officers and has worked more closely with school districts, established prima facia speed limits, installed signals and stop signs. The City has worked diligently to push for the 57/60 HOV project now under construction, has addressed parking problems at numerous locations and has implemented neighborhood studies and improvements allowing for safer and calmer community streets. In Area 2 Fountain Springs Rd. has seen at least a 10 -mile an hour reduction in speed since the pre -95 levels when speeds were at close to 50 mph. In the area of Castle Rock Elementary School speeds have been reduced by 10 mph. Speeds have been reduced at the Evergreen Springs Elementary School site and at the Heritage Park location along Brea Canyon Rd. Parking issues around D.B.H.S. have been greatly improved. Substantial traffic flow improvements have been implemented at Chaparral Middle School. Similar improvements are seen at other study areas. The City has made some great improvements over the many years and he hoped the City would continue to support future mitigation measures and support more permanent improvement such as landscaping and additional enforcement and education. It takes time and commitment for these measures to work. Many residents support the City's efforts and thank the City for its time and commitment. Robert Derefield, 22167 Jubilee Ln. said he too wanted the speed cushions removed from his street. M/Tye closed public comments. FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 16 CITY COUNCIL C/Herrera said she appreciated staff's responses to public requests that this be looked at sooner than the originally scheduled six-month timeline and for scheduling an open house so that residents could offer their input. The City lies between two major freeways and is deluged with and greatly impacted by regional traffic problems. Change is difficult and residents need to learn to drive more slowly and remain cautious and alert. In an effort for the City to provide traffic solutions to its neighborhoods careful consideration was given to traffic engineering solutions that have proved to be very effective in other areas. She was pleased that this matter would be reviewed again in five months. C/Chang commended staff for their efforts and in depth study of this issue. Generally, the City bases its programs on input from the residents and moves forward in a methodical manner to provide information to the community prior to initiating studies and programs. He asked residents to please read letters, news bulletins and publications from the City because they contain information that directly affects each and every resident. MPT/Tanaka asked residents to please be patient through this process and give the Council input so that the City can provide the best possible solutions. M/Tye said that what he appreciated about the program was that it was a Neighborhood Traffic Management Program. He lives on a cul- de-sac with 16 homes and his neighborhood is different from every other neighborhood in town. This was not a "one size fits all" solution to traffic problems. Not only does the City have cut -through traffic problems it has many residents to the east who have only one way to get to Los Angeles and Orange Counties for their jobs. Often drivers pass through the City and the City needs to give drivers a way to stay on the freeway and traffic calming measures do that. This is a process and a very well managed process. After attending the January 20 open house he realized that these traffic -calming measures at least got people talking. He wanted to understand how a change to 51 percent would apply and whether it would include residents only on a certain street and whether the percentage was comprised of households or respondents. With an eye toward improving traffic in a neighborhood and citywide the City will continue to work with this program. He again complimented DPW/Liu and Mr. Falter for their presentation and for being open and flexible throughout the process. C/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded to receive and file tonight's presentation, approve the proposed modifications, direct staff to continue engineering evaluation of the pilot projects and approve the modifications to the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 17 CITY COUNCIL Manual and Guidelines. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes 8.3 CONSIDERATION OF BATTING CAGES AT PANTERA AND PETERSON PARKS. CSD/Rose stated that in early 2004 Council, staff and local sports organizations met on numerous occasions to discuss needs of the various sports organizations and to create ideas for acquiring additional park space to accommodate sports facilities and to determine ways to enhance existing facilities. Additional park space was not acquired and the task force recognized the need for precise scheduling and maximum field space use. The Parks and Recreation Commission recommended staff research installation of batting cages to allow fields to be used for other activities and to allow simultaneous use of the grass field portion of the parks by the youth soccer teams. The City's contract landscape architect from David Evans & Associates determined that Peterson and Pantera parks would provide excellent opportunities for quality batting cages. Concepts were presented during public meetings in the affected neighborhoods. In an effort to respond to public concerns regarding installation of a cage at Pantera Park, staff held a simulated batting cage demonstration on December 14. 148 notices were mailed to addresses located near the park and twelve residents attended the demonstration during which decibel levels were recorded. Notices were mailed to 209 addresses near Peterson Park advising them of the November 23 meeting at Diamond Point Elementary School. Seven individuals attended the meeting and no one opposed installation of a batting cage at Peterson Park. There was no simulation conducted at Peterson Park however, staff recorded ambient levels on December 13. At their regular January 25 meeting the Parks and Recreation Commission considered construction of batting cages at Pantera and Peterson parks. Notices of the meeting were mailed to 357 addresses near the park. Three residents spoke at the Commission meeting, two in favor and one questioned the need and cost for batting cages at Pantera Park. The Parks and Recreation Commission voted to recommend City Council approval of construction of batting cages at Peterson Park and that construction of batting cages at Pantera Park be delayed until after the batting cages at Peterson Park had been constructed allowing time for review of usage to determine use pattern of the batting cages, visualize how the cages might look at Pantera based on the look at Peterson Park, determine if there were any safety or lighting issues and provide time to develop and refine a use policy for the batting cages. The majority FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 18 CITY COUNCIL of the Commissioners made it clear they do not oppose the eventual construction of batting cages at Pantera Park. CSD/Rose stated that staff proposes to construct two batting cages at each park for use by sports organizations at both Pantera and Peterson Parks as a single construction project with the batting cage at Peterson Park located in a single structure on the first base side of the field near Golden Springs Dr. and the batting cage at Pantera Park located in a single structure on the third base side of the ball field near Bow Creek. The two batting cages at each park would be side by side enclosed with chain link fencing on all sides and top. The surface material would be decomposed granite and the user groups would provide the pitching machines. Electrical access would be available in each batting cage and the existing ball field lights would provide lighting for the cages. Staff believes construction should take place at the same time for both parks to provide economy of scale and possibly save the City about 5% or $5,600. The estimated cost for both parks is $132,669 that would be paid from the current budget of $149,650 in Park Development Funds for the project. Notices were sent to residents near both parks about tonight's agenda item. There were no public comments offered. C/Chang felt it was a good project and supported staff's recommendation. MPT/Tanaka agreed that it was a positive project because staff was able to convey the safety of the facility and how the cages would result in better use of the parks. C/Herrera said that over the past several years the task force has studied better use of the City's fields. Most recently lighting was added to the Lorbeer Middle School fields, which increased use of the fields and the City intends to spend more than $1 million to upgrade the quality of the fields so that more youth organizations are provided greater opportunities. The Sports Task Force wanted batting cages for the youth and the City is responding. She supported this agenda item. M/Tye attended the preliminary meetings and staff addressed resident's concerns at follow up meetings to allay fears that the use would create additional noise. In fact, the simulation showed that traffic would create more noise than the pitching machines. Bottom line is that these batting cages will enhance greater and more effective use of the limited resources the City has. C/Chang moved, C/Herrera seconded to approve staff's recommendation to construct batting cages at both Peterson and FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 19 CITY COUNCIL Pantera parks as a single construction project for a total estimated cost of $132,669. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote: AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, MPT/Tanaka, M/Tye NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Zirbes 9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS: C/Chang said the City Council continues to work on behalf of the community to uphold its level of service while continuing to build its reserves. He commended the residents for participating in the E -Waste program. He spoke about the agenda items that were approved by Council this evening to help improve the community. He wished everyone a Happy Chinese New Years and wished them peace and prosperity. C/Herrera said it was always good to see the City Council acting on the wishes of the residents. Everything Council Members do is for the benefit of the residents. Traffic continues to be an aggravation in the City as it has been for a number of years. It is important for this City Council to work with other organizations and municipalities to affect regional change. Phyllis Papen, the City's first mayor began working to improve the regional traffic situation, a situation that has grown increasingly worse with the passage of time. Phyllis became involved with different organizations in order to affect solutions that would benefit D.B. and as such, was an alternate on the MTA Board where she appealed to Caltrans to make sure it got on a funding list for allocation of monies to create carpool lanes, a project that began four years ago. Bob Huff was very involved in LA Council of Governments and with Alameda Corridor East Construction Authority because he and others realized that with goods movement and products coming into California ports that there would be a significant increase in truck traffic as well as train traffic. As a result, the grade separation project on Brea Canyon Rd. is underway to provide trains the ability to move through areas without stopping at train crossings and results in quieter neighborhoods because trains will no longer need to blow their whistles at crossings that no longer exist. In 1998- 1999 Eileen Ansari was involved with Contract Cities and Bob Huff was involved with COG and she was President of the LA County Division for the League of California Cities and each person went to the cities in those organizations seeking resolutions in support of the fight against Lanterman and the State of California wanting to bring forensic clients to the area. Because of this work these individuals affected a very positive outcome for D.B. and were able to get the State to withdraw its plans. At this time D.B. is still suffering from increasing traffic. There are more trucks and trains and the SR57/60 interchange is a huge problem with accidents occurring daily and traffic leaving the freeway and moving through the City. The air pollution in this area is worse than in surrounding areas because vehicles are moving FEBRUARY 6, 2007 PAGE 20 CITY COUNCIL at a very slow pace. It is important for everyone to work together to get solutions and funding. The City has been successful in getting long-term funding options on MTA and SKAG lists for the final fix of the SR57/60 interchange. D.B. formed a coalition of cities, which she chairs, to get funding from Caltrans and from the Federal Government. The Councils' primary responsibility and concern is to focus what will most benefit the residents and the City. MPT/Tanaka attended Neighborhood Watch meetings and thanked Deputy St. Amant for his presentations and to the Sheriffs Department for responding to residents' concerns. He and M/Tye attended the Friends of the Library Volunteer Appreciation dinner; he and C/Herrera attended the St. Denis Leadership Awards dinner; he attended the D.B. 4 -Youth meeting and reported that the W USD adopted the plan; attended a grand opening at the Diamond Bar Plaza building and one at the Wells Fargo Bank. He also attended the WCCA meeting and thanked CM/DeStefano for his excellent presentation regarding the potential land purchase involving the AERA project. He thanked former staff member Ryan Wright for his service to D.B. M/Tye said he appreciated Council Members' involvement in meetings and community affairs and their focus in listening to residents and work toward making the community better. He congratulated C/Herrera on her participation in getting LA County to vote to join COG. He congratulated staff and the consultant for their participation in the Neighborhood Traffic Management Program pilot project. It is affirmation that the City is making every effort to render its neighborhoods as livable as possible. He offered kudos to Mark St. Amant for his presentation to the Cherrydale Neighborhood Watch members. Last Saturday he, Assemblyman Huff and MPT/Tanaka attended the Wells Fargo open house and were pleased to welcome them back to D.B. He wished Chinese citizens Gung Hay Fat Choy, Chinese New Year, Year of the Pig. JOURNMENT• With no further business to conduct, M/Tye adjourned the AD Regular City Council meeting at 9:50 p.m. 0, TOMMY CRIBBINS, CITY CLERK Th or oin mi are hereby approved this ?Qt ay of r�h�„�.r�, 2007. ST V TYE, M OR