HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/19/2009 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
MAY 19, 2009
STUDY SESSION: M/Everett called the Study Session to order at
5:17 p.m. in Room CC -8 of the South Coast Air Quality Management
District/Government Center, 21865 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA.
Present: Council Member Tanaka, Mayor Pro Tem
Herrera, Mayor Everett. C/Chang arrived at 5:25 p.m.
Absent: C/Tye was excused.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; Bob Rose, Community
Services Director; David Liu, Public Works Director; Linda Magnuson, Finance
Director; Susan Full, Senior Accountant; Greg Gubman, Acting Community
Development Director; Ryan McLean, Assistant to the City Manager; Rick Yee,
Senior Civil Engineer; Kimberly Molina, Associate Engineer; Patrick Gallegos,
Management Analyst; Cecilia Arellano, Public Information Coordinator; Isaac
Aziz, Network Systems Administrator; and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk.
Also Present: Waste Management and Valley Vista Services Representatives.
► PRESENTATION OF DRAFT FY 2009-10 BUDGET
CM/DeStefano stated that it was staff's intent to provide the Council with
an overview of the General Fund portion of the budget with a second
study session on June 2 to follow up with the General Fund budget
discussion and to discuss the Special and Specific Funds and Capital
Improvement programs proposed for next year. Staff also intends on
placing the budget on the June 2 Meeting for adoption. This year's budget
continues to be challenging with a decline in revenues and increases in
cost for services. As a result of the current climate, staff started with the
premise that revenues and expenditures would generally follow those that
were contained in the mid -year 2008-2009 budget. This has resulted in an
overall conservative budget that is even lower than the mid -year 2008-
2009 budget. The budget before Council is reflective of Council's goals
and objectives and is near completion. Resources of about $19.5 million
are almost $4 million less than where the City was in Fiscal Year
2006/2007. At this point staff estimates the General Fund reserves will
be at $32,842,000 at the end of the 2009/2010 budget year prior to
funding of any of the CIP projects. Pending legislation which is a
"borrowing" of dollars could take approximately $761,000 from the City.
Technically, the State must return the money to the City with interest
within three years. Based upon that anticipated "take" staff is proposing
that that amount of money be taken from the City's reserves for the
following reasons: 1) it is "borrowed" money that will be returned to the
City and 2) cutting an additional $761,000 from the City's budget would
result in significant across-the-board cuts to services and programs.
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 2 CC STUDY SESSION
While there is a significant decrease in funds from where the City was a
couple of years ago it should be noted that the only department that has
significantly increased over the years has been the Sheriff's Department.
The City has maintained and augmented the Sheriff's Department
resources over the past few years in the amount of $700,000 since FY
2006/07 which places additional stress on the General Fund for the overall
diminishment of resources. Staff is proposing a $307,000 of the fund
balance reserve for economic development, $200,000 of which is specific
to Master Plans to help facilitate development of the Honda property, the
intensified development of the K -mart property, and the Market World area
along Golden Springs Dr. Staff is also looking at a lease extension and
expansion of space of City Hall since the current lease expires in February
2011. An additional 4000 sq. ft. could mean an increase in the lease cost
of about $110,000. Lighting and Landscape districts are upside down.
For various reasons there has never been an increase in the costs to
residents who benefit from those districts while the costs continue to grow.
A subcommittee of the City Council is looking at the possibility of
increasing those district revenues. In the meantime, the budget includes
$140,000 from reserves to fund those districts beyond the amount they
generate. There is also an additional cost for insurance this year as a
result of a couple of losses that occurred during the past year including a
loss from the Minnequa-Sunset Crossing project resulting in a $250,000
transfer out which normally is about $150,000 a year.
CM/DeStefano reported that resources of about $19.5 million coming from
property taxes, FEMA, State subventions, sales taxes and hotel taxes, etc.
are also down. In terms of appropriations, staff looks at a cost of living
adjustment for employees. This year because the March to March CPI is
actually in the negative staff is not suggesting any CPI adjustment this
year. Staff is suggesting that a minor enhancement to the overall benefit
allotment for full time and benefited part time employees of $25 be
awarded for a grand total of about $17,000. Law enforcement contract
obligations with the County continue to rise. Public Safety resources have
not been diminished in any way whatsoever with this budget proposal
which includes a required 3% increase in the contract. Staff is looking at
the use of the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for about
$55,000 and use of COPS money this year. In the next few years the City
is looking at minor revenue increases as a result of some anticipated
changes that will be made in the next few months regarding fees for
services such as athletic field use, development services fees, etc. Staff
is also assuming that the state of the economy will improve in the next
year or two and that site D will start generating a development project and
revenue in 2013. Waste Hauler contracts are coming up for renewal and
possible extension. Staff is recommending additional fees to cover costs
including franchise fees in 2012. Also in 2012 the City would be looking to
receive revenue from the presumed construction start of the stadium
project in the form of traffic mitigation dollars. Once the stadium is
MAY '19, 2009 PAGE 3 CC STUDY SESSION
operational negotiated contributions of a minimum of $700,000 a year will
commence. On the expense side staff is looking at typical increases over
all departments. If the City does not act to provide revenue for the
Lighting and Landscape Assessment Districts the City will continue to
have to use general fund dollars to support those districts. CSD/Rose is
working on an aggressive Parks Master Plan project that will conclude
later this year from which will likely be a list of projects the City Council
deems important to commence construction for which resources will be
required. The City will have increases due to GASB requirements for
retirement, etc.
CM/DeStefano responding to C/Tanaka's question regarding personnel
stated that staff's proposal is that the four vacant positions that currently
exist be frozen. The budget incorporates the cost for all of those positions
which is about $301,000. He said he presumed that at least three of the
four positions would remain frozen throughout the entire year; however,
there is a possibility that the Planning position may be thawed out. There
is also a possibility that the lower level Parks and Recreation Community
Services position might also be thawed out but at this time at least three of
the four would remain frozen throughout the entire year depending on
what program and personnel changes may occur.
C/Chang believed that remaining lean and mean was the best option for
any business and that the City Manager should have the discretion to
determine which positions would remain frozen or thawed.
CM/DeStefano stated that the City augments many departments with
consultant services — either technical consultants or extended staff
positions with work product as opposed to adding long term staff
members. Staff has measurably cut back on consultant services over the
past couple of years. He anticipated that coming out of the recession,
staff would revert to its more typical format of a full complement of staff
and use of consultants for more activities.
MPT/Herrera agreed with C/Chang that it is important that the City be very
prudent in its hiring practices even though some departments are getting a
little thin. At this point D.B. still does not know what dollars it will receive
from the State and what the cuts may be. She would not like to have the
City fill positions because there are vacancies and not receive the revenue
D.B. is anticipating to pay for those positions which would then require
having to lay off those new employees. D.B. is fortunate that it has
continued to be extremely careful about how it expands staff and its
programs so that the City does not have to lay off employees as other
neighboring cities are doing.
MPT/Herrera asked for confirmation that the budget included about
$500,000 in program cuts and upon confirmation said she appreciated the
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 4 CC STUDY SESSION
savings. She was curious about the increase in the City Council budget of
$9,000. --
CM/DeStefano responded that it was a direct result of the anomaly for the
potential of three additional Council Members in December 2009.
MPT/Herrera asked why the Community Organization Support Fund
account 42355 was not called out in the budget.
CM/DeStefano said that for several years this has been budgeted at the
$20,000 range. The past few years the City has spent only $8- $10,000
so this year staff is proposing that it be cut from $20,000 to $15,000 (Page
89).
FM/Magnuson said this item was held in a separate fund apart from the
General Fund.
MPT/Herrera asked to see the details of this item because she felt that
some organizations routinely apply for funds and others were unaware
that funds were available.
CM/DeStefano responded that MPT/Herrera was correct.
CM/DeStefano talked about some of the expenditures and referred
Council to the top of Page 88. Staff believes it will spend about $10,000 in
the current fiscal year.
CM/DeStefano reviewed recommended budget items and detailed
changes.
MPT/Herrera suggested that since the City recently celebrated its 20th
anniversary it might be time to consider not holding a birthday celebration
every year or trim it back.
CM/DeStefano said that one of the major costs is the rides that are
leased. He asked if the Council had suggestions about cutting certain
items.
M/Everett said he would like to have a subcommittee look at cost-cutting
items.
CM/DeStefano referred the Council to the middle of Page 74 for City
Birthday cost allocations. He asked' the Council to let staff know if they
had specific or general cost cutting suggestions.
CM/DeStefano spoke about the benefit of an advertising campaign to
promote the Diamond Bar Center. Staff expects to bring a proposal to the
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 5 CC STUDY SESSION
City Council for a reverse 911 system within the next couple of months. It
appears that the cost would be about $35,000 with some of the dollars
coming from the existing Emergency Preparedness budget. Overall, the
budget is reduced about $525,000 over mid -year and more than $1 million
over the original 2008/2009 budget.
M/Everett asked about the $300,000 attorney fee item added back into the
mid -year budget.
FM/Magnuson referred M/Everett to Page 2 Account 31900.
CM/DeStefano explained that the item was revenue that the City
anticipated coming from the City of Industry for attorney fees. However, it
may not be booked until the next fiscal year. This is the only revenue that
comes to the City regardless of whether or not the stadium is built.
With no further questions or discussion on this matter, M/Everett went on
to the next item.
► SOLID WASTE HAULER UPDATE
PWD/Liu gave a power point presentation regarding the Solid Waste
Contract update. He began with the Waste Management's proposal and
proposed rates that would become effective at contract renewal. Waste
Management proposes a 2.5% or $99,000 increase for residential.
Commercial rates proposed by Valley Vista are 9% or $158,000 increase.
One of the reasons for the increase is the City's intent to increase its
diversion rate because the City has not performed well in the commercial
sector. Since Valley Vista proposes to process all of the commercial
waste, staff believes the proposed 9% increase is reasonable. Based on
a 64 gallon container rate, residents should expect to pay a monthly rate
of $21.04 beginning July 1. After August 2010 the monthly rate will
increase to $23.03. Beginning July 1, 2009 businesses will begin paying a
monthly rate of $108.89 and beginning August 2010 the monthly rate will
increase to $128.83. For a 3 -yard bin pick up of two times per week the
rate increases from $179.40 to $213.15.
ACM/Doyle continued with the presentation by breaking out fees included
in the overall rates. The flat rate is being proposed to be changed to a
percentage based rate to make it easier for the haulers to provide the
funds to the City and helps keep the AB939 fund current. As rates
increase the amount of revenue can increase because AB939 pays for
recycling and education programs the City provides for its residents. With
a flat rate the other costs would increase every year and by moving it to a
percentage base the City can keep current with expenditure rates as they
increase. The proposed percentage is 6.5% for the residential sector and
13% in the commercial
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 6 CC STUDY SESSION
sector. The Franchise Fee is a fee the City has not had in the past. Staff
is recommending a 5% Franchise Fee to be used to pay for administration
costs of the franchise that would be placed on top of the residential rate.
Street sweeping costs the City about $160-$170,000 per year and a street
sweeping fee would be paid through the waste hauler fees by the
residential sector only in the amount of $85,000. The Solid Waste Road
Vehicle Impact Road Maintenance Fee would also be included in the
residential component.
In response to MPT/Herrera ACM/Doyle said there would be an overall
decrease in the overall percentage increase rate of a little less than 4% for
commercial. Negotiations continue and staff would appreciate hearing
from Council.
CM/DeStefano stated that the franchise fee is something new for the City.
Companies that are given exclusive services to the City are given the
exclusive right for the contract in the City of D.B. Franchise Fees to cities
are usual to this type of contractual relationship. While it is a very minimal
additional cost to the consumer it is an opportunity for the City to generate
millions of additional dollars for the benefit and use throughout the
community.
MPT/Herrera said she was concerned about the jump in residential rates.
ACM/Doyle said the jump equates to $2.79 per month to each household
for the 64 -gallon rate. For commercial the increase is about 18% -19%
with a net increase in the pickup charge of about $20 to $34.
MPT/Herrera said that D.B. has been pleased to pass along low costs to
its residents and businesses. She asked if the increase would put D.B. in
the high bracket of cities' costs.
PWD/Liu said that if the annual rate increase were approved tonight the
residents would be paying $21.03 which'includes the CPI. Claremont, for
example, currently pays $23.24 per household. D.B. business after July 1
would pay $108.89 for a typical 3 -yard twice weekly pickup. Today, San
Dimas and Glendora businesses pay from $145 to $149. In 2010 the
rates for those other cities will be even higher. PWD/Liu agreed with
CM/DeStefano that it would be fair to say that D.B. rates would be in about
the middle range of other cities.
AGM/Doyle said that not only rates but comparable services need to be
considered. To the extent possible, staff attempted to compare with what
those types of services were because there are so many different types of
services and rates in the marketplace.
MAY 19, 2009
PAGE 7 CC STUDY SESSION
PWD/Liu stated that the City's consultant provided a very thorough
analysis of rates and services.
ACM/Doyle concluded that negotiations continue and one of the issues
that staff would like to address is the "bad debt" issue. Waste
Management has a significant issue with an increase in the number of
people that are not paying on their accounts. The D.B. franchise does not
allow Waste Management to stop service so they have been continuing to
service these accounts gratis although the cost will eventually be shared
between the other rate payers because it is a "cost of doing business"
consideration. Staff does not agree with that position because staff
believes that if residents are getting a service they should be paying for
that service. Staff is looking at a number of options but has not yet
finalized a decision about how Waste Management would be allowed to
recoup that bad debt. One option would be to stop servicing the account;
another would be to lien the property which would be an arduous process.
From a philosophical standpoint staff believes that continuing to have that
bad debt issue is not in the City nor the waste haulers best interest and
the 99% of residents who are paying their bills.
MPT/Herrera said she was appalled at what some residents do and if an
ordinance needs to be changed or new contract language needs to be
incorporated, the City should do so.
ACM/Doyle reiterated that staff intends to remove street sweeping from
the commercial sector. Staff's goal is to conclude negotiations and be
ready for presentation to Council for approval before June 30.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: None Offered.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to discuss, M/Everett
adjourned the Study Session at 6:29 p.m.
�,,,L 4 e;
TOMMYE RIBBINS, City Clerk
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 2nd day of June
2009
RON EVERETT, Mayor
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
MAY 19, 2009
STUDY SESSION: 5:17 p.m., Room CC -8
► Presentation of Draft FY 2009/2010 Budget — Discussion and Action.
► Solid Waste Hauler Update — Discussion and Action.
Public Comments — None
Study Session adjourned at 6:29 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Everett called the regular City Council
meeting to order at 6:40 p.m. in The Government Center/SCAQMD Auditorium,
21865 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Los Angeles County Fire Department Battalion
Chief Ed Gandara led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: Monsignor James Loughnane, St. Denis
Catholic Church, led the invocation.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Chang, Tanaka, Mayor Pro
Tem Carol Herrera, and Mayor Ron Everett. C/Tye arrived at 6:50 p.m.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; Bob Rose, Community
Services Director; David Liu, Public Works Director; Linda Magnuson, Finance
Director; Greg Gubman, Acting Community Development Director; Ryan
McLean, Assistant to the City Manager; Rick Yee, Senior Civil Engineer;
Kimberly Molina, Associate Engineer; Mickey McKitrick, Recreation Specialist;
Patrick Gallegos, Management Analyst; Cecilia Arellano, Public Information
Coordinator; Isaac Aziz, Network Systems Administrator; Marsha Roa, Public
Information Manager, and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As Presented.
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
1.1 C/Tanaka proclaimed May 2009 as MDA Firefighter Appreciation
Month and presented Proclamations to Station 120 and Battalion
Chief Ed Gandara representing Fire Stations 119 and 121.
NEW BUSINESS OF THE MONTH:
1.2 Mayor Everett presented a Certificate Plaque to Koba Tofu Grill,
2839 S. Diamond Bar Blvd. as New Business of the Month for May
2009. C/Tanaka will deliver the Plaque to the owner.
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
2. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
CM/DeStefano reported on the 2009/2010 Draft Fiscal Year Budget and
Waste Hauler Contract negotiations presentation to the City Council
during tonight's Study Session.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Miss Diamond Bar and her Court thanked the City Council for their help
and support and presented Certificates of Recognition to the City and
Council Member's Chang, Tanaka and M/Everett. They also thanked staff
and announced that there will be a Princess Tea Party at the D.B. Library
on May 30 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Peggy Sue, D.B. Library, announced that the theme for the summer
reading program for this year is "Be Creative at your Library". She also
announced other events that will be offered during the summer.
D.B. High School student Anahita Namaki, 3039 Galloping Hills Rd.,
Chino, spoke about the organization "Earth 2 Kids" at Diamond Bar High
that teaches kids about the environment.
Shelley Gentry, 1223 Calbourne Dr., spoke about an abandoned home
and eyesore next to her home. She stated that according to the code
enforcement officer the City has no plan for abandoned homes and that
there is a question about whether the bank owns the property. She further
stated that she has witnessed people inside the house late at night and
does not know whether they belong there. She is concerned for her safety
and the safety of her children.
4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENTS:
In response to Mrs. Gentry, CM/DeStefano stated that the City does have
a process for dealing with abandoned properties. He stated that
ACDD/Gubman will speak with Mrs. Gentry in more detail; however, it
appears there might have been some miscommunication since the City
can work with the Mosquito Abatement District to have the pool sprayed
as well as other remedies if needed. Furthermore, if anyone is in a vacant
home at an inappropriate time and not accompanied by a real estate
agent or someone of authority concerned citizens should immediately
contact the Sheriff's Department.
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 Memorial Holiday — May 25, 2009 — Offices will be closed in
observance of Memorial Day. City offices reopen on Tuesday, May
26.
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
rol
5.2 Planning Commission Meeting — May 26, 2009 — 7:00 p.m.,
AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Dr.
5.3 2009 Fire Season Press Conference (L.A. County Fire Department)
— May 27, 2009 — 10:30 a.m. — Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand
Ave. (L.A. County Fire demonstration).
5.4 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting — May 28, 2009 — 7:00
p.m., AQMD/Government Center Hearing Board Room, 21865
Copley Dr.
5.5 Diamond Bar/Walnut Sheriffs Station Open House — May 30, 2009
—10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., 21695 E. Valley Blvd., Walnut.
5.6 Tree Planting Event — June 1, 2009 — 11:00 a.m., Neil Armstrong
Elementary School, 22750 Beaverhead Dr.
5.7 City Council Meeting — June 2, 2009 — 6:30 p.m.,
AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Dr.
CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Chang moved, C/Tanaka seconded, to
approve the Consent Calendar as presented. Motion carried by the
following Roll Call:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Tanaka, Tye,
MPT/Herrera, M/Everett
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
6.1 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES — Regular Meeting of May 5, 2009 —
Approved as submitted.
6.2 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER — Dated April 30, 2009 through May
13, 2009 totaling $762,058.38.
6.3 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2009-14: VACATING AN
EASEMENT FOR SANITARY SEWER PURPOSES ON LOT 1 OF
PARCEL MAP NO. 7937.
6.4 BOND EXONERATIONS FOR VANTAGE TOWNHOMES:
(a) SURETY BOND NO. TM5040753/6313972 POSTED BY
BROOKFIELD DIAMOND BAR VILLAGE LLC FOR TRACT
62482 TO COMPLETE SEWER IMPROVEMENTS.
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
(b) SURETY BOND NO. TM5040744/6313963 POSTED BY
BROOKFIELD DIAMOND BAR VILLAGE LLC FOR TRACT NO.
62482 TO COMPLETE GRADING AND STORM DRAIN
IMPROVEMENTS.
6.5 APPROVED THE CITY'S 2009 EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL
JUSTICE ASSISTANCE RECOVERY ACT GRANT APPLICATION
IN THE AMOUNT OF $49,600.
6.6 (a) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2009-15: DECLARING THE
CITY'S INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
FOR LANDSCAPE DISTRICT NO. 38 AND DIRECT THE CITY
CLERK TO ADVERTISE THE PUBLIC HEARING TO BE SET FOR
THE JUNE 16, 2009 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
(b) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2009-16: DECLARING THE
CITY'S INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
FOR LANDSCAPE DISTRICT NO. 39 AND DIRECTED THE CITY
CLERK TO ADVERTISE THE PUBLIC HEARING TO BE SET FOR
THE JUNE 16, 2009 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
(c) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2009-17: DECLARING THE
CITY'S INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
FOR LANDSCAPE DISTRICT NO. 41 AND DIRECTED THE CITY
CLERK TO ADVERTISE THE PUBLIC HEARING TO BE SET FOR
THE JUNE 16, 2009 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
6.7 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2009-18: AMENDING
RESOLUTION NO. 2003-21 AND THE CITY'S PARKING
PENALTY SCHEDULE.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
8. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION:
8.1 ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2009 -XX: ESTABLISHING FEES AND
CHARGES FOR RENTAL OF ATHLETIC FACILITIES.
CSD/Rose stated that the current fees charged for rental of athletic
facilities has been in place since 1992. Currently, there is no
charge for use by D.B. based non-profit organizations. For D.B.
residents and businesses there is no charge for use without lights
and a $12 per -hour fee with lights. For non-D.B. residents and
businesses fees are currently $5 per hour with no lights and $12
per hour with lights. For the past year the City has been working
with its consultant, Maximus Inc. to evaluate fees charged for City
services. One of the fees evaluated is for the reserved use of
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
athletic facilities. The direct cost borne by the City to provide
reserved athletic facilities use is about $150,000 per year, a cost
that is above and beyond regular park maintenance and operation
costs. This information was presented to the Parks and Recreation
Commission on March 26 and April 23. Following input by
representatives of the various D.B. sports organizations and
discussion, the Commission voted to recommend an increase of
the fees and charges making them effective January 1, 2010. The
fees recommended are to establish a $10 dollar per -participant fee
per season for D.B. based non-profit organizations; increase the
hourly rental rate for D.B. residents and businesses to $5 per hour
without lights and $25 per hour with lights; and, to increase the
hourly rental rate for non-D.B. residents and businesses to $10 per
hour without lights and $40 per hour with lights. These fees were
determined by evaluating the market prices of neighboring cities
and reviewing the costs borne by the City to provide these services.
If the fees are approved the estimated annual revenue will total
$62,900. The Parks and Recreation Commission and staff
recommend that the City Council adopt the resolution to set the
fees and charges for rental of athletic facilities as presented.
M/Everett said that D.B. is very family-oriented and he is concerned
about the timeliness of the request with the economy the way it is.
He felt that once the Parks Master Plan is put into play there may
be other recommendations about fees and would prefer to pull the
two together.
There was no one present who wished to speak on this matter.
MPT/Herrera said she shared M/Everett's concern about increasing
the fees at this particular time and what might result. D.B. prides
itself in providing activities for its youth and questioned whether
increasing the cost for these activities may become too high to
where families would not be able afford to participate. As a result,
there would be children with no productive activities in which to
participate.
MPT/Herrera stated that a few years ago the City adopted an
ordinance to establish a utility district and wondered if this might be
an opportunity for the City to look into solar lighting at the parks as
well as other locations. This might also allow the City to absorb part
of the cost.
C/Tye thanked CSD/Rose and staff for monitoring costs and
expenses. However, he thinks fundamentally, we should begin with
the end in mind. Is the end to minimize or recover costs or to
provide ball fields and lighted fields and facilities for youth practice.
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
MPT/Herrera's point, is that there are several things the City does
for which fees are not recovered such as Concerts in the Park, the
Birthday party and the July 4th celebration. His fear is that if fields
are improved with monies from the stadium project families may not
be able to afford to have their kids participate because the fees
have become too onerous. He is not a proponent of raising fees for
residents. He has no problem raising fees for organizations that
come from outside of the City.
C/Chang concurred with C/Tye. He commended staff on watching
the budget very closely. At the same time the City collects taxes
from the residents and he believes that the City has an obligation to
keep the basic recreational value for public use. He said he would
like to keep the current rate for residents; however, would support
the increases for non-residents with the exception of the $12 fee
per hour with lights to $40, which he felt was too much of an
increase. He would prefer to see $10 for residents and $25 for
non-residents.
C/Tanaka felt that the City's Parks and Recreation programs were a
jewel of the City. Staff does an excellent job of providing programs
and maintaining the parks. He agreed that this was not the time to
increase the fees due to the current economic climate.
M/Everett agreed. He hoped that non-residents would not be
discouraged to use D.B. facilities because he believed that
reasonable fees were very fair for non-residents. He would also
like to see both Heritage and Pantera Park activity rooms have non-
resident charges for each of the rooms at those sites with a
consistent and fair discount for residents.
C/Tye moved, MPT/Herrera seconded, to table Item 8.1. Motion
carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Tanaka, Tye,
MPT/Herrera, M/Everett
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
8.2 ANNUAL RATE INCREASE FOR WASTE HAULER FEES:
(a) APPROVE VALLEY VISTA SERVICES' RATE
ADJUSTMENTS FOR CPI AND DISPOSAL COSTS.
CM/DeStefano reported that this item is a recommendation by staff
to consider and approve a rate adjustment for Valley Vista Services
for commercial accounts in accordance with provisions in the
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
current contract.
PWD/Liu stated that the refuse and recyclable service collection
contract with Valley Vista Services stipulates that the contractor can
adjust a rate to account for an annual Cost of Living or Consumer
Price Index adjustment to their service components or an increase
for that portion of the rate which is impacted by disposal costs or
adjustments for other extraordinary costs. In April Valley Vista
Services submitted a request for adjustments to existing rates for
the following items - CPI adjustment to the service component and
a disposal cost adjustment applied to the dumping cost component.
The County Sanitation District increased its landfill rate at the
Puente Hills facility by $4.44 per ton effective January 1, 2009.
Staff finds the Valley Vista Services rate adjustment request to be
reasonable and appropriate and recommends approval.
M/Everett opened the meeting for public comments. No public
comments were offered.
MPT/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded, to approve Valley Vista
Services' Rate Adjustments for CPI and Disposal Costs. Motion
carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Tanaka, Tye,
MPT/Herrera, M/Everett
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
(b) APPROVE WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICES' RATE
ADJUSTMENTS FOR CPI AND DISPOSAL COSTS.
CM/DeStefano stated that similarly, the City's waste hauler, Waste
Management Services has requested an increase for the residential
sector.
PWD/Liu reiterated that in April 2009 Waste Management
submitted a request for adjustments to their rates based on the CPI
adjustment that reflected a negative 1 % that was applied to the
service component and a disposal cost adjustment of 1.3% was
applied for a net increase of .3%. Staff finds the rate adjustment
request to be reasonable and appropriate and recommends
approval of Waste Management Services' rate adjustments for CPI
and Disposal Costs.
PWD/Liu referred the City Council to the "Senior Rate" shown on
the last line of staff's report. Under 96 gallon the proposed monthly
rate should read that the rate will go from $21.57 to $21.63
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
reflecting a .3% increase.
M/Everett opened the meeting for public comments. No public
comments were offered.
MPT/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded to approve Waste
Management Services' Rate Adjustments for CPI and Disposal
Costs. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Tanaka, Tye,
MPT/Herrera, M/Everett
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS/COUNCIL MEMBER
COMMENTS:
C/Tye reported that he had attended the California Contract Cities annual
meeting which was an opportune time to get the message to the
legislators in Sacramento that cities want the Governor to keep his hands
off of city funds. He believed that if the money were borrowed it would
never be paid back to the cities. He said he was particularly moved by the
firemen who were involved with the "Fill the Boot" program and
encouraged to hear that $16,000 was raised just in D.B. It reminded him
of the tens of thousands of dollars that had been raised in this community
over the last month or so by the Friends of the Library, the Teddy Bear
Tea, and the Brahma Foundation's Casino Night. This is a very generous
community and he is proud to be a resident and represent the citizens.
C/Chang reminded residents to attend the Sheriff's Station Open House
on May 30. Concerts in the Park and Movies under the Stars will begin
right after the 4th of July celebration. Today is Election Day and he hoped
that every one of the registered voters would vote to send a clear
message to the State. D.B. balances its budget, protects its services and
sets aside a reserve. This is the City's basic function and officials are
appalled that the federal and state government cannot balance their
budgets. He wished everyone a Happy Memorial Day.
C/Tanaka reported that he had attended the Senior Citizens' Cinco de
Mayo Dinner Dance and the Brahma Foundation's Casino Night. He
stated that D.B. is scheduled to have its 4th annual American Cancer
Relay for Life on June 13 and 14 at Lorbeer Middle School. The Relay for
Life held its fundraiser at the Whole Enchilada. Last week he participated
in Career Day at D.R.H.S. The LA County Fair is in the process of
selecting its Junior Fair Board for next year with two students from each —
high school being picked from dozens of applications. This afternoon the
PUSD held its Community Services Award presentation and recognized
MAY 19, 2009 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
individuals and organizations who have contributed to the district. He
thanked the students who are involved with "Earth 2 Kids" at D.B.H.S and
thanked the 20 high school seniors in the audience who were fulfilling their
curriculum requirements by being present for tonight's meeting.
MPT/Herrera stated that on Saturday, May 16 she was pleased to attend
Chaparral Middle School's string orchestra concert. She was so
impressed with the outstanding talent, especially in view of the fact that
there is no string instrument training at the elementary school level. On
May 7 and 8 she and M/Everett attended SCAG's General Membership
workshop. Part of the presentation was a report of the City of D.B. As the
Regional Council representative it is her job to present the report to the
City of D.B. SCAG presents a profile of the cities within District 37 to
assist the cities with future policies they will undertake.
M/Everett reiterated that good information was provided at SCAG's annual
meeting. He was pleased to attend and vote on some of the matters and
to continue planning and developing the southern California area
particularly as it relates to D.B. All of the City's schools do a great job. He
too was impressed with the level of family and community participation.
Today he and C/Tanaka attended the PUSD Recognition Ceremony.
Another organization that is very effective statewide as well as locally is
the California League of Cities which has been very active in producing
statistics about city "loans" that would be made to the State toward its
budget shortfall. Yesterday he attended a town hall meeting in which
Governor Schwarzenegger stated he does not feel that it is fair to borrow
from cities or school districts and other agencies. Nevertheless, the City
of D.B. takes very seriously its budget and the leaders will continue to be
prudent and conservative and provide and protect services and staff.
Anything residents can do to send the message that D.B. does not want
its money taken would be helpful. He attended the 57th annual meeting of
Visiting Nurses Association and Hospice of Southern California that
supports the people of D.B. The Hospice liaison can be contacted at 909-
723-1323.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, M/Everett
adjourned the regular City Council meeting t 8:12 p.m.
TOMMYE CRIBBINS, CITY CLERK
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 2nd day of June ,
2009.
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RON EVERETT, MAYOR