HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/3/2012 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
AP RI L 3, 2012
STUDY SESSION: M/Chang called the Study Session to order at
5:45 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, Ron Everett, Carol Herrera,
Steve Tye, Mayor Pro Tem Jack Tanaka and Mayor Ling -Ling Chang.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; Dianna Honeywell,
Finance Director; David Liu, Public Works Director; Greg Gubman, Community
Development Director; Ryan McLean, Assistant to the City Manager; Bob Rose,
Community Services Director, Rick Yee, Senior Civil Engineer; Kimberly Young,
Associate Engineer; Erwin Ching, Assistant Engineer; Ken Desforges, IS
Director; Marsha Roa, Public Information Manager, and Tommye Cribbins, City
Clerk.
UPDATE ON THE 57/60 "BIG FIX" PROJECT: (Lemon Avenue On -Off
Ramp and Park -n -Ride)
SCE/Yee provided the Council with an update on the 57/60 Grand Avenue
Confidence Project which is anticipated to alleviate a lot of the weaving
move ments within this segment of the freeway by building a series of
bypass roads.
CM/DeStefano stated that in early March he, M/Chang and C/Herrera
along with officials from the City of Industry met with members of
Congress to provide briefings on this project.
M/Chbng reported that the Reauthorization Bill had been extended 90
days.. The Senate passed the Bill with unanimous support; however, the
House has not been able to act on the Bill.
i
C/Herrera stated that when the City's representatives went to Washington
D.C. it was for the purpose of getting funding for the remainder of the
project, some $230 million.
M/Chang asked if construction were to begin on Phase I and Phase 11 and
these� improvements were later added, would that have an effect during
construction.
PWD/Liu responded "No" because staff has, during this process over the
past several years, made sure that all three phases are consistent with the
ultimate improvement so that if certain aspects of the project are later
added, it would all fit together.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 2
STUDY SESSION
CM/DeStefano indicated that staff mentioned that this is about a $265
million project and the cities are seeking funding of about $230-235
million, the difference of which is being put toward the project by the City
of Industry from a pool of resources they are providing to this project
because parts of the components of the project are environmental traffic
mitigation measures as a result of their developments in the immediate
area during the past 10 years or so.
PARK-N-RibE
PWD/Liu reported on the Foothill Transit proposal to construct a 500 -
space structure at the easterly side of the Park -n -Ride lots and have
begun exploratory meetings with the City of DB as well as, Caltrans,
owner of the lots. DB wants to identify the issues and opportunities for the
bypass connectors to connect the lots.
C/Herrera reported that Foothill Transit has been trying to build a parking
structure for a number of years. They have had Federal funds for a
project for several years and are fearful that if they do not use those funds,
the Fed's will revoke the funds. Foothill has a project going up in the City
of Industry close to Metrolink which is under construction. There were two
other sites, one in West Covina and another in Azusa, both of which
involved redevelopment agencies and with the change and complications
in the redevelopment agencies with respect to ownership those projects
will be stalled for a period of time. She brought this matter forward to DB
to see if the City Council has the will to have a parking structure built in
this location because Foothill is looking for a location that would be easy
to accomplish without a lot. of complications. DB does not have a
Redevelopment Agency and this land is owned by Caltrans so it seems
that this would be an easy transition to build on it but it would take
approval by.the City Council of the City of DB for this to move forward.
Foothill is looking for an indication from DB whether it would want such a
project. If not, Foothill will look for other opportunities.
PWD/Liu stated that currently the Park -n -Ride lots accommodate about
250 spacesand this project would double the accommodation.
CM/DeStefano said that staff is not looking for any direction from the
Council this.evening but has brought this matter forward so that Council
Members ca.n begin thinking about the possibility. DB staff is working with
Foothill Transit staff and will be coming back to the Council with a properly
detailed report and recommendations.
C/Herrera asked what would be discussed during the April 15 meeting
involving DB., Foothill Transit and Caltrans.
MPT/Tanaka asked how tall the structure would be.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 3 STUDY SESSION
CMIDeStefano replied that it would be four stories and cited examples of
under
comparable structures in the City including the structure currently
construction at the Metrolink station.
LEMON AVENUE ON-OFF RAMP
SE/Young presented a status update on the Lemon Avenue On -Off Ramp
project.
AE/Young provided a brief history and update on the Lemon Avenue
on/off. ramp project. As a result of the construction of this project, the
existing eastbound on and off ramps will be removed at Brea Canyon
Road. Project milestones include the EIR which was approved in
November 2008; the Freeway Agreement between DB and the State
-of-Way
approved by the City Council in December 2010; and, the Right
Cooperative Agreement between the City of DB, City of Industry and the
State of Cal iforn ia "approved by the City Council in September 2011. Staff
received the authorization to proceed with right-of-way activities from
Caltrans in March 2012. This project is also included in the City Council
Goals and Objectives for Fiscal Year 2011-2012. The partial diamond
interchange at Lemon Avenue will consist of a proposed westbound on-
ramp, eastbound off -ramp and eastbound on-ramp. The westbound off -
ramp . was not pursued due to extensive right-of-way impacts that would
have, occurred to the school district property and several residential
properties along Moonlake Street. Impacts that will occur as a result of
the partial diamond interchange are five partial property takes to
residential properties along Flintgate Drive, one corner landscaped area
(commercial property on the northwest corner of Lemon and Golden
Springs Drive) and a portion of the parking lot (approximately 9 parking
spaces) of LA Fitness. The total right-of-way phase of this project can
take up to 18 months and is expected to cost just over $2.2 million which
includes capital costs and administrative costs for the acquisitions.
Federal SAFETEA-LU funds have been earmarked for this project and DB
will be reimbursed $1.12 million with the remainder of the funds coming
from the City of Industry. Total project cost is anticipated to be just over
$19 million. To date, the City of DB has secured $11.29 million in Federal
-LU, HSIP funds and Metro Prop C funds). Additionally,
Funds (SAFETEA
the City of Industry has committed $4.9 million toward the project which
leaves a shortfall of $2.79 million which the City of Industry has committed
to pay in the event that additional funds are not obtained. Current
schedule is as follows-. Right -of -Way phase completion expected for
project ready to list in 2013, and construction
December 2013, the
antici' ated to commence in May 2014 with completion in December 2015.
p
Public Comments: . None Offered.
AP RI L 3, 2012 PAGE 4 STUDY SESSION
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to come before the City
Council, M/Chang adjourned the Study Session at 6:18 p.m. to the Regular City
Council Meeting.
Tommye Oribbins, City Clerk
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 17th day0f April
2012.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
APRIL 3, 2012
CLOSED SESSION: 5:00 p.m., SCAQMD Room CC -8
Public Comments on Closed Session Agenda: None
► Government Code Section 54956.9 (c) Initiation of Litigation: one case.
STUDY SESSION:
5:45 p.m., SCAQMD Room CC -8
Study Session Adjourned at 6:18 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Ling -Ling Chang called the Regular City
Council meeting to order at 6:34 p.m. in the SCAQMD Main Auditorium, 21865
Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA.
CA/Jenkins reported that tonight's meeting was called to order at 5:00 p.m. in
Closed Session. There were no public comments, no additions and no
reportable actions on the Closed Session agenda
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Council Member Carol Herrera led the Pledge
of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: Pastor Mark Hopper, Evangelical Free Church,
gave the invocation.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Ron Everett, Carol Herrera,
Steve Tye, Mayor Pro Tem Jack Tanaka and Mayor Ling -Ling Chang.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; Michael Jenkins, City Attorney; David Liu, Public Works
Director; Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; Bob Rose,
Community 'Services Director; Dianna Honeywell, Finance Director; Ryan
McLean, Assistant to the City Manager; Ken Desforges, IS Director; Rick Yee,
Senior Civil Engineer; Kimberly Young, Associate Engineer; Christy Murphey,
Recreation Superintendent; Erwin Ching, Assistant Engineer; Natalie Tobon,
Planning Technician; Lauren Hidalgo, Public Information Specialist, and Tommye
Cribbins, City Clerk.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As Submitted
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
1.1 M/Chang proclaimed April 2012 as DMV/Donate Life California
month and presented the proclamation to Donate Life Ambassador
Sharon Henson.
1.2 CITye proclaimed April 2012 Fair Housing Month and presented the
proclamation to Director of Investigations Martha Torres.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
1.3 RS/Murphey introduced new City Employees Tennille Langile,
Administrative Assistant; Robin Crawford, Community Services
Coordinator and Cloris Vargas, Recreation Specialist Senior
Program, who joined the Community Services Department at the
Diamond Bar Center.
1,.4 Ruth Low thanked current and past City Councils and staff for their
support, and that the Diamond Bar Friends of the Library have
contributed $400,000 to the City. She introduced President Rosette
Clippinger, Diamond Bar Friends of the Library, who presented a
check for $80,000 to LA County Librarian Margaret Todd for the
construction of the new Diamond Bar Library Reading Garden.
2. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
2.1 Update on the 57160 "Big Fix" Project; Lemon Avenue On -Off
Ramp; and Park -n -Ride.
CM/DeStefano reported that the City has spent considerable time
during the past few years working on the SR57/60 interchange that
creates gridlock and spills traffic into the community. The status of
the Big Fix/Confluence project includes a recent trip to Washington
DC by M/Chang, C/Herrera and CM/DeStefano who attended
meetings with members of . Congress and Senate seeking
resources in the upcoming Transportation Authorization Act to
complete this project. Another initiative by the City is the Lemon
Avenue Interchange project which has been on the books since
1968 with significant effort by the City in the last few years to move
the project forward. Both projects have been funded by resources
from the Federal Government as well as, funds as a result of
mitigation measures provided by the City of Industry. In addition,
there :is a new proposal staff is studying to provide a report to the
City Council which involves an opportunity for an improved Park -n -
Ride facility just north of the SR60 on Diamond Bar Boulevard to
double the number of vehicle parking stalls in the Park -n -Ride
structure.
SCENee gave a Power Point presentation on the Confluence
project. Phase I of the three Phase project is fully funded at $16.5
million and is currently in the design plan specifications and right-of-
way process. Phase II is fully funded at $15 million and is in the
EIR study development. Phase Ill is currently unfunded and
different strategies are being researched for the balance which is
estimated to be at a cost of $233.5 million with the total project for
Phase I, II and III estimated at $265 million. Phase I is anticipated
to be'completed in 2014, Phase 11 in 2015 and pending availability,
Phase III is anticipated to be completed in 2017. In addition to
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
Phase I, II and 111, the Big Fix includes missing freeway connectors
from southbound SR57 to the eastbound SR60 and the reverse of
that movement, the westbound bypass. ramp from the SR60 to
Grand Avenue and the HOV connectors on the west end of the
project and HOV connectors on the east end of the project at a cost
estimated to be $300 million. Staff is currently pursuing funds to
fund a project study report for missing components and is
collaborating with the City of Industry to determine creative funding
opportunities to fund the balance of the project.
MlChang commented on the Transportation Reauthorization Bill.
AE/Young provided a brief history and update on the Lemon
Avenue onlof ramp project. As a result of the construction of this
project, the existing eastbound on and off ramps will be removed at
Brea Canyon Road. Project milestones include the EIR which was
approved in November 2008; the Freeway Agreement between DB
and the State approved by the City Council in December 2010; and,
the Right -of -Way Cooperative Agreement between the City of DB,
City of Industry and the State of California approved by the City
Council in September 2011. Staff received the authorization to
proceed with right-of-way activities from Caltrans in March 2012.
This project is also included in the City Council Goals and
Objectives for Fiscal Year 2011-2012. The partial diamond
interchange at Lemon Avenue will consist of a proposed westbound
on-ramp, eastbound off -ramp and eastbound on-ramp. The
westbound off -ramp was not pursued due to extensive right-of-way
impacts that would have occurred to the school district property and
several residential properties along Moonlake Street. Impacts that
will occur as a result of the partial diamond interchange are five
partial property takes to residential properties along Flintgate Drive,
one corner landscaped area (commercial property on the northwest
corner of Lemon and Golden Springs Drive) and a portion of the
parking lot (approximately 9 parking spaces) of LA Fitness. The
total right-of-way phase of this project can take up to 18 months
and is expected to cost just over $2.2 million which includes capital
costs and administrative costs for the acquisitions. Federal
SAFETEA-LU funds have been earmarked for this project and DB
will be reimbursed at $1.12 million with the remainder of the funds
coming from the City of Industry. Total project cost is anticipated to
be just over $19 million. To date, the City of DB has secured
$11.29 million in Federal Funds (SAFETY -LU, HSIP funds and
Metro Prop C funds). Additionally, the City of Industry has
committed $4.9 million toward the project which leaves a shortfall of
$2.79 million which the City of Industry has committed to pay in the
event that additional funds are not obtained. Current schedule is as
follows: Right -of -Way phase completion expected for December
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
2013, the project ready to list in 2013, and construction anticipated
to commence in May 2014 with completion in December 2015.
PWDILiu updated the City Council on preliminary discussions
between Foothill Transit and the City of DB with respect to possible
construction of a Park -n -Ride facility on Diamond Bar Boulevard
which would increase the vehicular parking spaces from 250 to
500.
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Richard Toombs thanked the City Council for moving forward with the dog
park. He said he was concerned about the ground cover and had spoken
with CSDIRose about the matter.
Carolyn Anderson Carrera, Waste Management, reported to the Council
that her firm was named "Eth-isphere's 2012 World's Most Ethical
Companies" for the 5th consecutive year.
4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENTS:
CMIDeStefano stated that the Dog Park located at Pantera Park is under
design at : this time and staff anticipates completion about
August/September 2012.
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 Annual Easter Egg Hunt — April 7, 2012 — 10:00 a.m. — Pantera
Park,. 738 Pantera Drive — Pancake Breakfast hosted by Fire
Explorers Post 19 beginning at 8:30 a.m. For more information,
contact the Community Services Department at 839-7070.
5.2 Planning Commission Meeting — April 10, 2012 — 7:00 p.m.,
Diamond Bar City Hall Windmill Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
53 Traffic and Transportation Commission Meeting — April 12, 2012 —
7:00 p.m. — Diamond Bar City Hall Windmill Room, 21810 Copley
Drive.
5.4 23`d Annual City Birthday Party — Saturday, April 14, 2012 — 11:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m. — Carnival rides open until 6:00 p.m. - Pantera
Park, 738 Pantera Drive
5.5 City Council Meeting — April 17, 2012 — 6:30 p.m., SCAQMD
Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
6. CONSENT CALENDAR:
CITye moved, C/Herrera seconded, to approve the Consent Calendar as
presented. Motion carried by the following Roll Call:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Everett, Herrera, Tye, MPT/Tanaka,
M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
6.1 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES — Regular Meeting of March 20, 2012 -
Approved as submitted.
6.2 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES:
6.2.1 Regular Meeting of January 24, 2012 — Received and Filed.
6.2.2 Regular Meeting of February 28, 2012 — Received and Filed.
6.3 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MINUTES —
Regular Meeting of February 16, 2012 — Received and Filed.
6.4 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER Dated March 15, 2012 through
March 28, 2012 totaling $1,537,723.07.
6.5 APPROVED TREASURER'S STATEMENT — Month of February
2012.
6.6 APPROVED NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR RESIDENTIAL
AREA 7 AND ARTERIAL ZONE 5 ROAD MAINTENANCE
PROJECT.
6.7 APPROVED NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL
BATTERY BACKUP SYSTEM PROJECT.
6.8 AMENDED CONTRACT AMOUNT WITH PROTECH
ENGINEERING CORPORATION FOR THE 21810 EAST COPLEY
DRIVE (CITY HALL) INTERCONNECT PROJECT IN THE
AMOUNT OF $7,000 FOR A TOTAL AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT
OF $46,850.
6.9 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2012-15: INSTALLATION OF 600
FEET OF RED CURB ON THE WEST SIDE OF DIAMOND
CANYON ROAD FROM BREA CANYON CUTOFF ROAD TO 600
FEET SOUTHERLY.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
7. PUBLIC HEARING:
7.1 ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2012-16: APPROVING A ONE-YEAR
EXTENSION OF TIME FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO.
2007,10 AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW NO. 2006-11 TO
CONSTRUCT A NINE -UNIT RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM
LOCATED AT 23671 GOLDEN SPRINGS DRIVE (ASSESSOR'S
PARCEL NUMBER 8281-028-030).
CDDIGubman reported that this proposal to redevelop Diamond
Jim's drive-through Dairy site by creating a nine -unit detached
townhome development was originally approved by the City Council
in November 2007 and was valid for three years. Grading plans
were first submitted to the Public Works Department in 2008 and
the main challenge facing the project was developing a drainage
plan to carry storm water runoff from the site. The initial effort was
to negotiate for a drainage easement through the condominium
project to the south, which would have allowed the drainage system
to operate via gravity flow. Prior to the 2010 expiration date, the
applicant requested a one-year extension to continue negotiations
with the neighboring homeowner's association and the Council
granted the extension in February 2011. These negotiations were
ultimately unsuccessful which lead to an alternate method of storm
water' management which involved backup pumps, an emergency
generator and additional capacity to retain storm water onsite. The
Public Works Department has approved the grading plan and
pending submittal of final documentation will be in a position to
issue a grading permit. Because the applicant has been diligently
working with the Public Works Department to obtain a grading
permit, staff supports the applicant's request for a time -extension.
Therefore, staff recommends that the City Council adopt a
resolution to approve a one-year time -extension for Conditional Use
Permit No. 2007-10 and Development Review No. 2006-11, based
on the Findings contained in Municipal Code Section 22.66.050.
M/Chang opened the Public Hearing.
With no one present who wished to speak on this matter, M/Chang
closed the Public Hearing.
C/Herrera moved, C/Everett seconded, to Adopt Resolution No.
2012-16, an approval of a one-year extension of time for
Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-10 and Development Review No.
2006-11, based on the Findings contained in Municipal Code
Section 22.66.050. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Everett, Herrera, Tye,
MPTITanaka, M/Chang
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
7.2 APPROVED FOR FIRST READING ORDINANCE NO. 04(2012):
AMENDING THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS OF TITLE 22 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE: 22.10.030 Tables 2-5 and 2-6; 22.160.060(1);
22.22.120(a)(1); 22.38.030; 22.36.130; Table 3-14; 22.34.030;
22.42.060(2)0); 22.42.100(1); 22.42.100(c); 22.42.130; 22.68.030;
22.80.020.
CDD/Gubman stated that from time to time it is necessary to
U
pdate various sections of the DB Development Code to better
serve the City, its residents and the development community, or
simply to comply with change in State law or case law, and the
collection of amendments presented for adoption this evening is
part of that ongoing effort. The amendments proposed in the
attached Ordinance present simple and straightforward refinements
to existing Development Code standards while still protecting the
character, social and economic stability of DB's residential,
commercial and industrial areas. In many situations these
refinements will eliminate unnecessary beauracratic obstacles that
property and business owners may face when requesting permits
or approvals from the City. Others eliminate conflicting provisions
found in different chapters of the Code or simply codify recent
mandates under State law to which the City is already subject. The
remainder consists of eliminating typographical errors and updating
definitions. On March 13, 2012, the Planning Commission held a
Public Hearing on the proposed Development Code amendment
and following discussion and incorporation of their comments, the
Commission recommended by a vote of 5-0 that the City Council
adopt the attached Ordinance. $The Planning Commission's
discussion of various amendment items primarily concurred with
staff's recommendation. There were some questions about the
proposed standards for driveway maintenance on single family
residents. Fallowing that discussion, the Commission was satisfied
with the proposed language and requirements. The Commission
also had discussion about maximum permissible driveway grades
on residential properties and the recommendation was to table the
proposed provision pending further discussion with the Fire
Department. The issue of maximum driveway grades and
appurtenant clarification is tabled for now and will be brought to the
City Council at the time of the next round of Code cleanup items.
CDD/Gubman offered to answer Council questions and concerns
on any of the 13 cleanup items listed in the table.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
ClEverett asked if there were any public comments during the
Planning Commission deliberation.
CDDIGubman responded there were none.
C/Herrera asked CDDIGubman to elaborate on the maximum size
and area for monument signs. Some of the shopping centers have
smaller signs and some have larger signs. As traffic increases,
businesses have only a few seconds to attract passing motorists
and staff is requesting that the area be reduced from 72 square feet
to 36 square feet.
CDDIGubman explained that the maximum height for a shopping
center free-standing sign is a maximum six-foot tall sign. The
standard in the Code that states 72 square feet per face of the sign
has long been considered a typographical error with the actual
intent. that it is a total of 72 square feet and 36 square feet per face.
The proposed correction in the Code is to resolve that
typographical error to avoid further debate. There are means by
which a shopping center can get much larger signs and signs that
are more suited to the speed of the traffic and other visibility issues,
which can be granted through a Comprehensive Sign Program as
opposed to coming in over the counter and getting a rubber-
stamped modes sign. Businesses that wish to have a larger sign
can go through the more detailed design review process which
ensures integration in the overall design of all of the signage within
a shopping center, for example. This standard does not take away
from , the legitimate opportunity to increase the visibility of
businesses to passing motorists and simply resolves a long-
standing typographical error that has to do with over-the-counter
signage requests.
MlChang opened the Public Hearing.
With no one present who wished to speak on this item, MlChang
closed the Public Hearing.
ClHerrera moved, MPT/Tanaka seconded, to approve First
Reading of Ordinance No. 04 (2012): Amending the following
Sections of Title 22 of the Municipal Code: 22.10.030 Tables 2-5
and 2-6; 22.160.060(1); 22.22.120(a)(1); 22.38.030; 22.36.130;
Table 3-14; 22.34.030; 22.42.060(2)0); 22.42.100(1); 22.42.100(c),
22.42.130; 22.68.030; 22.80.020. Motion carried by the following
Roll Call vote:
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
COUNCIL MEMBERS
COUNCIL MEMBERS
Everett, Herrera, Tye,
MPT/Tanaka, MIChang
None
None
7.3 (a) ADOPT URGENCY ORDINANCE 05(2012) U: APPROVING
AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT 2005-01
BETWEEN THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR AND JCCL-SOUTH
POINTE WEST LLC FOR THE SOUTH POINTE WEST SPECIFIC
PLAN AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF.
(b) FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 06(2012):
APPROVING AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT 2005-01 BETWEEN THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
AND JCCL-SOUTH POINTE WEST LLC FOR THE SOUTH
POINTE WEST SPECIFIC PLAN.
CDDIGubman clarified for the record that there are no physical
changes and no changes to the Morning Sun Avenue emergency
access and restrictions proposed to the project. This Development
Agreement Amendment is simply to revise the terms of the life-
span of the agreement. On March 20, 2007, the City Council
adopted ordinances approving the South Pointe West Specific Plan
and a five year development agreement with the developer, Lewis
Operating Corporation DBA JCCL-South Pointe West LLC and
these ordinances went into effect on April 19, 2007. The South
Pointe West Specific Plan governs a 34.5 acre site in the
southwesterly portion of DB and allows for the development of 99
detached condominiums and a 4.7 acre neighborhood park. The
Development Agreement grants vested rights to the developer in
return for a $10,000 per-unit development fee to the City and for the
park to be constructed by the developer and dedicated to the City.
Although the developer has spent $3 million thus far and made
significant progress toward completion of the final tract map and
improvement plans, it will take additional time before the project
breaks ground. Because this Development Agreement is set to
expire on April 19 an extension is needed to preserve the benefits
to the City and to the, Developer that the agreement provides.
Therefore, staff is recommending that the City Council approve a
five-year extension to the term of the Development Agreement
moving the expiration date to April 19, 2017. In addition, staff is
recommending that 4.4.1.2 be deleted from the Development
Agreement, a -provision that requires the developer to place
$500,000 into an escrow account after the 49th dwelling is
occupied. For the City to receive any payment from the account,
the homes would have to sell for more than $900,000 each and
staff does not believe that small lot detached condominium units
APRIL 3, 2012
PAGE 10
CITY COUNCIL
that would be sold in this development would reach that price point
and therefore believes that requiring the developer to place
$500,.000 into an escrow account when it could be put to more
productive use, does not benefit the City. Eliminating this provision
has no effect whatsoever, on the City's collection of $10,000 per -
dwelling unit, the development fee as set forth elsewhere within the
agreement. CDDIGubman pointed out a correction in the Draft
Development Agreement Amendment which is in Exhibit A to each
of the ordinances. On Page 1 under Section 2.3 the effective and
expiration dates of the Development Agreement should read April
19.
MlChang opened the Public Hearing.
Beth Hojnacke, President, Rowland Heights Community
Coordinating Council, thanked the Council and staff for allowing her
to speak and including Rowland Heights in the notification process
on this matter.
Darrin McCleve, Senior Vice President, Lewis Operating
Corporation, on behalf of the applicant JCCL, thanked the City
Council and staff for their help over the past five years. As
CDDIGubman stated, the developer has spent about $3 million to
get everything ready to move forward so that as the economy turns
and there is good activity in the market development of the project
can begin. He asked for Council's support for the five-year
extension.
With no further testimony being offered, MlChang closed the Public
Hearing.
CITye moved, C/Herrera seconded, to Adopt Urgency Ordinance
No. 05 (2012) U and First Reading of Ordinance No. 06 (2012) as
corrected. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS
Everett, Herrera, Tye,
MPT/Tanaka, MlChang
None
None
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
8. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION.
8.1 ADOPT URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. •07(2012) U: PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65858 PROHIBITING THE ISSUANCE
OF PERMITS FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF LAND USES ON THE SITE OF
THE FORMER DIAMOND BAR HONDA DEALERSHIP AND ITS
ADJACENT PARCELS AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE
SR601GRAND AVENUE INTERCHANGE.
CDDIGubman stated that the property at 525 Grand Avenue has been
vacant since Diamond Bar Honda relocated operations to the City of
Industry in mid 2008. The property is zoned C-3 which allows, either by
right or by Conditional Use Permit, a broad spectrum of land uses
including retail stores, restaurants, auto rental agencies, hotels, and
offices. Several uses are at odds with City Council's adopted Goals and
Objectives, particularly the fiscal responsibility economic goal which
states: "Identify and implement development opportunities for the former
Honda dealership property that will result in the greatest net benefit to the
community". Following the dealership's closure, Caltrans commenced
preparations of plans to construct a direct westbound onramp to the SR60
at the Grand Avenue intersection. The current design proposed for the
slip ramp would require the acquisition of approximately .7 acres of the
southern portion of the property that includes the Honda dealership and
will cause the elimination of at least one of its two drive approaches along
Grand Avenue. Site distance and lane geometry issues still being studied
may require the elimination of both driveways along Grand Avenue and
thus completely eliminate vehicular access to the premises from this major
arterial roadway. Under an agreement between the City of DB and the
City of Industry loss of acreage to accommodate the onramp would be
offset by the vacation and granting of right-of-way to the premises which
would result from the realignment of both Brea Canyon Road in
conjunction with construction of the NFL Stadium planned to the northeast
of fihe property within the City of Industry. However, because a competing
stadium proposal was subsequently proposed in downtown Los Angeles, it
remains uncertain as to whether the Industry stadium project will come to
fruition. If the Industry stadium project is not developed, the land area of
the premises formerly occupied by Diamond Bar Honda will then be
reduced by approximately .7 acres. The City is currently studying new
development standards and zoning for the vacant dealership site that are
consistent with the City Council's adopted Goals and Objectives. Because
of the uncertainty of the final size, configuration and access to the former
Diamond Bar Honda premises, the viability of the site to attract stable land
uses that will benefit both the property owners and the City of DB is
unclear at this time. It is likely that zoning standards for the site will
change as a result of this update. Because time is required to prepare
and adopt these new regulations and update the Zoning Ordinance, this
Urgency Ordinance is intended to place an interim prohibition on the
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL
establishment of new facilities and uses on the site as of this evening.
The interim - ordinance will place a 45 -day moratorium on the affected
parcels and .the Council may extend the moratorium to a maximum of two
years total. rHowever, it is not staff's intension to extend this moratorium
for its maximum duration, but to replace it with new zoning standards as
quickly. as possible. Also, because a one-year moratorium has already
passed, staff intends to craft new zoning standards for the site within the
shortest possible timeframe. At this time, it is staff's recommendation that
the City Council adopt the ordinance to place a 45 -day moratorium on
issuing permits for the establishment of land uses on parcels located at
the northwest corner of the SR60 and Grand Avenue with street
addresses of 525 and 525 Grand Avenue {Assessor's Parcel No's 8719-
020-001 and 8719-020-006 and 8719-020-007.
M/Chang asked for public comments.
David Bellore, Dudley Investment Management Company, said that his
firm purchased the site on October 8, 2007 when the property was zoned
commercial.. His firm first learned of the Industry stadium project in 2008,
after the site was purchased. Over the years meetings have been held to
determine the highest and best use, which have been contingent on the
stadium project. Dudley Investment has received no revenue except for
Burger King and has been paying all property taxes, insurance and
maintenance along with incurring significant damage that has been done
on the site due to the Honda Dealership buildings being vandalized
beyond recognition. The moratorium was originally established in April
2011 and recently, it was not renewed. After a conversation last Friday to
set up a meeting to discuss plans, his company was informed yesterday
that this moratorium was being placed on tonight's agenda. There is a
meeting with CM/DeStefano and CDD/Gubman to discuss the company's
plans moving forward and he formally requested that the vote be
postponed until the next City Council meeting during which time the
meeting with CMIDeStefano can take place. Although it is Dudley's intent
to develop the site the company recognizes it will be in partnership with
the City and, it is Dudley's intention to find the highest and best use for all
parties.
MlChang closed public comments.
MlChang asked for staff's comments and CMIDeStefano responded that
staff would not recommend a continuation of this matter from tonight's
meeting.. It is staff's preference that Council adopt the ordinance this
evening, which runs for a maximum of 45 -days unless and until the
Council extends it. The Council has the ability to extend the ordinance
another 10 months and 15 days but staff must come back to the City
Council for that decision. By adopting the ordinance tonight and allowing
staff to work with the property owners over the next 45 days, none of the
APRIL 3, 2012
PAGE 13
CITY COUNCIL
parties loses time as there will be no application submitted or considered
for approval within the next 45 days.
CITye asked if at the next Council meeting the ordinance adoption could
be rescinded if staff and the developer reach agreement on how to
develop the property.
CMIDeStefano said that technically, the answer is yes, but he does not
believe that anything will be concluded within the next two weeks.
C/Herrera moved, MPTITanaka seconded, to adopt Urgency Ordinance
No. 07(2012) U. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote,
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS
9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE
COMMENTS:
Everett, Herrera, Tye, MPT/Tanaka,
MlChang
None
None
REPORTSICOUNCIL MEMBER
CITye congratulated "Diamond Bar Friends of the Library" for their efforts
on behalf of the City and the Library. He congratulated new employees on
becoming members of a winning team, especially to Cloris Vargas who
was willing to have her Dad join her for the photo session.
Congratulations to the winners of this year's Inland Valley Spelling Bee
sponsored by "DB Friends of the Library". This is the second year that the
Spelling Bee was won by a student from Chaparral Middle School.
Justin's trip to Washington D.C. is also sponsored by the DB Friends of
the Library and everyone will be pulling for him to win the National Spelling
Bee. He congratulated Andee Tarazon, Diamond Bar Community
Services employee who was installed as the new CPRS District 13
President. DB enjoys a staff of leaders headed by CMIDeStefano and is
embodied by CSD/Rose and now Andee who is wished every success as
President of District 13, a volunteer position.
ClEverett thanked and congratulated everyone who received plaques this
evening and thanked everyone for their service to the community. Last
week he joined MlChang for the Massage Envy ribbon -cutting ceremony
whose owners extended their thanks and support to staff for assistance in
getting their business open. Item 6.2 (b) troubled him a bit because there
was a reference to times when the City may not have to provide notice of
public hearings. He asked staff to bring that matter back to the City
Council in a Study Session because he believes communication and
notification is one of the most vital roles the City plays. He wished
everyone a special Passover and Easter season.
APRIL 3, 2012 PAGE 14 CITY COUNCIL
C/Herrera welcomed the new DB employees. She again thanked the DB
Friends of the Library for their considerable contributions that resulted
from a lot of hard work on the part of its members. April 29 is the DB
Friends of the Library "Wine Soiree," the primary fundraising event of the
year and she asked for community support of the event. She invited
residents to :attend the big 23rd City Birthday Party on April 14 at Pantera
Park.
MPT/Tanaka thanked the DB Friends of the Library for their hard work and
generous donation for the reading garden. He attended the Regional
Chamber of Commercial Power Luncheon during which CM/DeStefano
and city managers from City of Industry and West Covina spoke on the
economic outlook. One of the issues discussed was the recent loss of the
redevelopment agencies. He congratulated M/Chang for her wonderful
State of the City address. This year the Lions Club Internationals
President's goal was to plant one million trees throughout the world during
the year. Leo Club members from Chaparral Middle School and DBHS
planted five trees in Sycamore Park which adds to the total of more than
7,400,000 trees planted this year. Please attend the annual Easter Egg
Hunt and City Birthday Party the following Saturday.
M/Chang reminded everyone to follow her on Facebook and Twitter. She
also thanked the DB Friends of the Library and particularly President
Rosette Clippinger for her leadership and all that she has done for the
community. She attended the Regional Chamber Power Lunch.
CM/DeStefano did an excellent job in reporting about what is happening
with redevelopment. She participated in meeting with a delegation at City
Hall regarding E -Services; attended the Massage Envy ribbon cutting.
Andrew Garsten, Regional Developer and Owner of Massage Envy,
mentioned that DB was the easiest City to work with in terms of opening a
business. Last Thursday she attended the Revenue and Taxation Policy
Committee meeting with League of California Cities during which
redevelopment was discussed and bills of interest were reviewed. The
task force reported on the next generation of economic development tools
with more to come on that issue. She attended the Sunshine Seniors
luncheon during which the Community Services staff was thanked for
doing such an excellent job. She always hears wonderful feedback about
the City's Community Services Department and thanked staff members for
all they do for the community. She thanked everyone for attending the
State of the City event. She thanked C/Tye for agreeing to help her with
the video entertainment at the end of her presentation. Everyone had
wonderful things to say about DB and there were no negative statements
which is attributable to current and past City Councils and staff and
thanked staff for putting together a wonderful State of the City event.
APRIL 3, 2012
PAGE 15
CITY COUNCIL
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, M/Chang
adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:05 p.m.
Tommye ribbins, CITY CLERK
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 17t day of _ Anril
2012.
LIN,goLINGCHANG, MAYOR