HomeMy WebLinkAbout08/06/2013 Minutes - Regular MeetingCITY OF DIAMOND BAR
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
AUG U ST 6, 2013
STUDY SESSION: M/Tanaka called the Study Session to order at
5-30 p.m. in the Windmill Community Room, at Diamond Bar City Hall located at,
21810 Copley Dr., Diamond Bar, CA.
Present: . Council Members Ling -Ling Chang, Carol
Herrera, Steve Tye, Mayor Pro Tem Ron Everett, and Mayor Jack Tanaka.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; David DeBerry, City Attorney; Dianna Honeywell,
Finance ' Director; Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; Ken
Desforges, IT Director; David Liu, Public Works Director; Marsha Roa, Public
Information Manager, Ryan McLean, Assistant to the City Manager; Kimberly
Young, Associate Engineer; Alfred Estevez, IS Help Desk Support Technician,
and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk.
GRAND AVENUE BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT — Discussion and Action
CM/DeStefano stated that this is a project that has been coordinated
between the Community Services Department and the Community
Development Department. This project was last brought to the Council in
April 2013 during which staff introduced the topic of adding some
beautification improvements to Grand Avenue.
PWD/Liu reported that the primary purpose of this project is to highlight
the Diamond Bar Community. In addition, there is an opportunity to create
visual points of interest at two high profile intersections: Grand Ave ' nue
and Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Grand Avenue and Longview Drive.
These two intersections were chosen because they serve as primary
gateway entries to the City. Improvements at the four corners of Grand
Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard intersection will serve as a catalyst to
stimulate the four corner shopping centers at the intersection.
PWD/Liu introduced Surender Dewan, Civil Engineer and President, DMS
Consultants, Inc., and Gary Vasquez, Landscape Architect, David Volz
Design.
Gary Vasquez with David Volz Design provided Council with an updated
Power Point presentation. He stated that project efforts are focused along
Grand Avenue at Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive
intersections. The difference between the two intersections is that one is
surrounded at the corners by commercial retail businesses and the other
surrounded by residential. Both serve as entry points to the City. Part of
the purpose of this project is to improve the aesthetics along Grand
Avenue at the two intersections, to upgrade and begin to beautify the
landscaping within the parkways as well as the medians, and to begin to
define the character of Diamond Bar through types of construction
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 2 CC STUDY SESSION
materials such as color concrete or rock, etc. The primary efforts were to
come up with visual characteristics that could be implemented at these
two intersections and possibly at other intersections and streets
throughout the City, as well as, areas within and adjacent to the parkways
on landscape easements in tandem with business owners in the future to
incorporate the overall beautification effort.
Mr. Vasquez showed slides of the areas and talked about existing site
conditions that were taken into consideration including utilities, limited
right-of-way and how to redefine the space/intersections to make them
more cohesive in appearance. Some of the features that will need to be
considered are pedestrian accent street lighting, signage and accent
lighting, wayfinding signage, street lighting for vehicle traffic, and retail
commercial signage and lighting. As the project moves forward at the
Grand Avenue/Diamond Bar Boulevard area the City will need to work
with some of the business owners to determine how the project can meet
and incorporate their needs while beautifying and improving aesthetics
within the parkway and landscape easements. Some improvements
contemplated include improving crosswalks with enhanced paving and
inclusion of materials in the public right-of-way. Part of the process
moving forward will be the design development which will narrow the
selections to specific paving materials. What helps define space at
various intersections is the incorporation of vertical elements within the
parkways and medians as well as, site furnishings such as benches, trash
receptacles, town clocks, bollards, bike racks, bush shelters, tree wells,
customized iron tree grates with the Diamond Bar logo, etc.
Mr. Vasquez explained that Council recommended a phased project and
accordingly, his firm took a step back and focused efforts on Phase I
which is the improvements that can be done between the curb and back of
the right-of-way. Part of this effort was that if the landscape easement
could be used it could be added to Phase I in a seamless manner to
prevent having to redo what has been done. Phase I proposes to
enhance the pedestrian crosswalks with some enhanced paving and new
sidewalk along both sides of the street wrapping the improvements around
each intersection at Diamond Bar Boulevard to at least the first driveway
into the retail shopping centers at each of the four corners incorporating
trees and tree wells, etc. Phase 11 improvements, with the use of some of
the landscape easement space, shows how much more landscaping can
be achieved along Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue.
Part of the Phase I efforts will include generation of landscape guidelines
with the hope that some of the business owners will buy into the
improvements at the Diamond Bar Boulevard intersection.
AUGUST 6,2013 PAGE 3 CC STUDY SESSION
Mr. Vasquez spoke about enhancing the Longview Drive intersection and
incorporating ornamental tree grates and trees and understory
landscaping to soften the parkway and eventually, budget permitting, carry
the landscaping to the slopes. Some of the vertical elements that would
work well within the parkway and establish a visual character throughout
the City would be a fieldstone wall with a low post and rail fence and
decorative columns with softening vine cover as well as, a City icon such
as a windmill to enhance and build on the brand of the City. Various
intersections could have vertical interchangeable panels incorporated into
a post and rail fence with low ground cover plantings to soften the effect.
He showed various panel designs. At Grand and Longview, he envisions
an opportunity to incorporate an entry sign and showed the Council
possible concepts.
Mr. Vasquez stated that he estimates about a $1.2 million construction
budget for Phase I for both intersections which does not include a
proposed 20 percent contingency. This budget includes pedestrian
crosswalks and improvements within the right-of-way. With Council's
approval, construction would commence as soon as possible with the
design element completed in September and a set of guidelines for staff in
early October. During the next three months (November to February 2014)
the City would pursue authorization from the State to proceed to get the
Federal funding required to move forward with the work. Hopefully, in
March 2014 the project will go out to bid with bid award in April and
construction commencing in May 2014. He estimated three months for
completion of the construction improvements at both intersections.
C/Chang asked whether the new trees will block the businesses.
Mr. Vasquez responded that the guidelines will include photos and some
3D models to show the improvements and how they will affect the
background businesses.
C/Chang asked if any of the funding would be coming from the General
Fund.
PWD/Liu said that four different funding sources have been identified that
do not include the General Fund. Currently, the City has $1 million in
funding budgeted for this project and the City of Industry has identified
mitigation dollars to be used to fund improvements at Grand Avenue and
Diamond Bar Boulevard just to mention two sources.
C/Tye asked if the sign program would be required of all business owners
and would it be north and east and not just the corner for more continuity.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 4 CC STUDY SESSION
PWDILiu responded that part of the Phase I effort will be an outreach
effort to the business community to make sure that all business owners at
all four corners of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar. Boulevard will have an
opportunity to participate and provide the City with specific feedback. It is
critical for the City to facilitate these types of discussions and that staff
needs to have consistency in terms of the design guidelines a.nd
beautification features. The ongoing discussion will be that throughout
this entire process staff will need to maintain ongoing dialogues with all
four business shopping centers. PWD/Liu further stated that
CDID/Gubman has been involved in this process from the beginning and
has built working relationships with specific business owners.
CDDIGubman stated that as was discussed earlier, this is a two phase
effort and with the second phase comes the opportunity and the need to
relocate some of the existing signage at the corners to accommodate the
streetscape improvements. Staff envisions that through the outreach
efforts the criteria will be defined -so that at each of the four corners the
shopping centers will have a more cohesive unified theme and the
placement and design palate, etc. would be a collaborative effort to
develop something at that intersection that weaves into the overall
streetscape design so that not only is there improved identity for the
businesses, and that the signage will also be part of the design theme.
C/Tye said he was concerned about the signage closest to Big Lots,
Chase and Firestone and would all of that be incorporated so that it looks
cohesive instead of the mishmash that currently exists.
CDD/Gubman stated that that would be the vision staff would be working
toward. A good expression of that vision is what is seen in Walnut at the
intersection of Grand Avenue and Valley Boulevard where there are
different shopping centers but have a cohesive design palate that is
integrated into their signs which are not only integrated at the corners but
proceed down Grand Avenue and are repeated.
C/Herrera asked where there would be space to plant extra trees along
Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard. Does the project reduce the
width of the sidewalks or is space taken by taking a lane away from the
street?
Mr. Vasquez responded that the sidewalk width of five feet will be
maintained and on Grand Avenue the trees could be incorporated on the
right-of-way line with half of a tree grate that is ADA compliant in.the
Phase I development. If Phase 11 proceeds, the other half of the tree grate
could be installed and the sidewalk paving expanded into the right-of-way.
MfTanaka asked if vehicular line -of -site would be taken into consideration
for the trees being planted.
AUGUST 6,20113 PAGE 5 CC STUDY SESSION
Mr. Vasquez responded that the presentation shows a more ideal location
for the trees but they will obviously need to be pushed around a bit to
maintain proper visibility for automobiles as well as appeasing some of the
business owners.
MPT/Everett said he was very concerned about the long term and
believes it requires a dialogue and communication with the parties of
interest. What is meant by "businesses?" Is that the business owners, the
establishments or what? And, at Longview Drive, there are no businesses
so who would the dialogue be with at that location. MPT/Everett also
asked who the people in the focus groups are and how does the City
dialogue with the community for the best long-term effect?
Mr. Vasquez said he agreed that a dialogue with the community in the
highly visible areas within the City is very important. The dialogue will be
with the business owners at the Diamond Bar Boulevard/Grand Avenue
intersection with the guidelines and CDD/Gubman's efforts to get their
input but no other community outreach or community workshop efforts
have been addressed for the residential portion along Longview Drive.
PWD/Liu said that with respect to the residential community surrounding
the Longview Drive intersection, staff feels that there is no need for the
two groups to be at the same meeting. The idea is that staff will reach out
to the neighborhood surrounding the intersection and invite them to a
separate meeting or to a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting
to receive a presentation and as they get more involved and learn about
the progress of the project. Staff wants to make certain that residents have
a good idea where the City is heading and solicit their input to make sure
they buy into the plan. Not only is it an entry point for the entire
community, it is their neighborhood and staff wants to make sure there is
constant and regular communication with the residents. With respect to
the intersection of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard he and
CDD/Gubman have discussed that as a starting point, staff wants to reach
out to the shopping center owners/management companies. At this point
and through that discussion they will help staff decide whether they need
to start bringing in individual businesses and stakeholders. As guidelines
are developed, business owners, businesses and staff will continue to
learn about the project to help the City with its streetscape beautification
effo rts.
MPTIEverett said he was really concerned that the City begins by thinking
about the dialogue and relationship that is built. As with Massage Envy
which is not a property owner, individual businesses have concerns. He is
also concerned about just focusing on the neighborhoods at Longview
Drive because that is their backyard but so many more people go through
that intersection and they should feel good or at least have an avenue to
express themselves. He doesn't want to get bogged down with the great
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 6 CC STUDY SESSION
architectures without making sure the community feels good about it so
that the effort can be taken to other intersections. He said it troubles him
to focus so specifically especially with the branding throughout the City.
110- GRANDVIEW TRAIL & TRAIL LINK PROJECT — Discussion and Action
CM/DeStefano stated that as part of the ongoing implementation of the
Trails Master Plan, RS/Murphey and Jeff Scott from TKE will provide
tonight's presentation on the link to the overall Summitridge Park Trail
project system. CM/DeStefano reported that on tonight's regular meeting
agenda includes an item regarding this project.
RS/Murphey presented a Power Point presentation on the Grandview Trail
and Link project. The Parks Master Plan was adopted, in July 2011 and
this trail and trail link is key to implementing the master plan and will allow
residents to make a full loop of thepark. She pointed out the area of the
proposed project and stated that once the major improvement trail link is
completed, residents will be able to make a 2.5 mile loop around the park.
Jeff Scott stated that from an architect's point of view, staffs diligence in
pursuing grants for the Trails Master Plan is really exciting. The trail will
start from the Diamond Bar Center west end parking lot and continue to a
point that offers a spectacular view of the City and beyond to the City
lights of Los Angeles and will include a Gazebo and trash receptacle, The
goal was to minimize the number of stairs throughout the trail, to minimize
the steepness at Steep Canyon and bring the slopes to an 8 to 10 percent
slope with intermingled trail and steps minimizing the number of stairs to
the bottom. Unfortunately, where the trail becomes the steepest, a
significant number of stair steps were required however, for the most part;
the revised option was successful in minimizing the number of stair steps.
The master plan prepared by TKE in 2011 contained most of the
standards that were utilized in the Gazebo design, trailhead signage and
railing. Along the trail where there are steep grades adjacent to the trail,
railings were provided and water diverters were installed to prevent
washout, similar to what was done at the Sycamore Canyon trail. In
addition, the project attempted to minimize tree removal by diverting the
trail through the existing oaks'and sycamores. The majority of the trail is
six feet wide and where it diverts off is reduced to a four foot trail to avoid
grading impacts to the natural flora and fauna at the steep areas of the
trail. ' Most likely the few bridges will be constructed from corten steel
rather than wood for a longer lasting and more durable structure.
RS/Murphey stated that project costs are estimated to be $556,381.
Funding comes from a combination of Land and Water Conservation
grants, Habitat Conservation grants and the General Fund, The current
General Fund amount is $469,79.6 and staff is working on an application to
AUGUST 6,2013 PAGE 7 CC STUDY SESSION
obtain $300,000 from Supervisor Knabe's Safe Parks Act Trails Grant
program to complete the funding for the project. If the grant is fully
funded, it will not only provide the necessary remaining funding, it would
replace the General Fund monies as a funding source and provide a
construction contingency. The resolution requesting City Council approval
to submit the grant application is on the City Council's agenda for
consideration this evening. The tentative project schedule is completion of
plan check and corrections by the end of August with bid opening to be
completed by October 11, Proposition A Grant awards announcement
October 31, award of contract scheduled for November 19, and
completion of construction April 30. If the City were not to receive the
grant,- Value Engineering would be used in order for the project to stay
within the appropriation limit.
Public Comments: None Offered.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to discuss, M/Tanaka
adjourned the Study Session at 6:25 p.m. to the Regular City Council Meeting.
To!mmye Cribbins, City Clerk
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 2 oth day of
2013.
Jack Tanaka, Mayor
%
OF • •AUGUST 6, 2013
5:30 p.m., Windmill Room
Grand Avenue Beautification Project — Discussion and Action.
Grandview Trail & Link Project — Discussion and Action.
Public Comments: None Offered
Study Session recessed at 6:25 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Jack Tanaka called the Regular City
Council meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Windmill Community Room, located
at Diamond Bar City Hall, 21810 Copley Drive.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Tanaka led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: Pastor Randy Lantripe, Church in the Valley,
gave the invocation.
ROLL CALL: Council Member Chang, Herrera, Tye, Mayor
Pro Tem Everett and Mayor Tanaka.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David Doyle,
Assistant City Manager; David DeBerry, City Attorney; Diana Honeywell, Finance
Director; Greg Gubman, Community Development Director; Ken Desforges, IT
Director; David Liu, Public Works Director; Ryan McLean, Assistant to the City
Manager; Kimberly Young, Associate Engineer; Alfred Estevez, IS Help Desk
Support Technician, and Tommye Cribbins, City Clerk.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As Presented.
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
1.1 MPT/Everett proclaimed August 6, 2013 as "National Night Out'
and presented the proclamation to Lt. Anthony Tachias.
NEW BUSINESS OF THE MONTH:
1.2 M/Tanaka presented a Certificate Plaque to Mendrick Leelin, CEO,
Yojie Japanese Fondue, 2813 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, as New
Business of the Month for August 2013.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
2. CITY MANAGER REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
CM/DeStefano stated that earlier this evening Council held a study
session to review a proposed beautification project on Grand Avenue
between the area of Longview Drive and Diamond Bar Boulevard. This
was the second review and this evening the Council looked at concept
improvements for landscaping, signage, fencing and a variety of aesthetic
improvements within that area. Staff received Council comments that
indicated concerns about trees and wanted to be certain that businesses
were properly protected with signage and identity. In addition, the Council
wanted to be certain that the community stakeholders were invited to
participate and be actively involved in the process. Staff received
comments from tonight's meeting as well as, the April meeting and will
ensure that there are community meetings for both the business and
residential areas for those who wish to participate in the process to come
forward and participate and give their thoughts as they reflect upon the
concepts that are presented by staff and the City's consultant. The
resources earmarked for the project are dedicated resources, the bulk of
which comes from a grant that the City received from former
Congressman Gary Miller's efforts. Those dollars are specific to Grand
Avenue and while the City wishes it could use those dollars for other
projects it is forbidden from doing so in accordance with the rules
associated with Federal grant funds.
The second item presented included details of the Grandview Trail Link
proposed as part of the Summitridge Trail project, an effort the Council
has had underway for several years to improve the trails system within the
community. This is a piece that completes a missing link of a 2.5 mile
trail. Money has been set aside for this project as well as on tonight's
agenda an item for Council consideration seeking grant dollars from an
effort that Supervisor Knabe has included in his agenda.
The Council is meeting in the Windmill Room because the AQMD
Auditorium is unavailable due to technology improvements that are
underway. Late last week CM/DeStefano received written communication
from the AQMD that those improvements are about two months behind
schedule. Therefore, because this room has been booked for City Council
meetings through September, at the next City Council meeting, staff will
likely seek Council's approval for use of the Windmill Room through
November. As staff learns more, the City Council will be updated.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
MIINNNF•��
Pui-Ching Ho, Acting Diamond Bar Librarian, stated that the Library's
Reading Program continues and encouraged members of the community
to participate in the countywide online summer reading programs through
August 17. For information stop by the library reference desk or call 909-
861-4978.
On Friday, August 9 at 2:00 p.m. individuals can join an exploration of
animals with a wildlife company. August 10 and 17th at 2:00 p.m. the
library will hold an "ultimate couponing workshop series" to teach
individuals how to save 50 percent on their grocery bill and on Saturday,
August 17th at 10:00 a.m. the public is invited to celebrate the Library's
one year anniversary.
4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMENTS: None Offered.
5. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 Concerts in the Park and National Night Out — August 7, 2013 —
6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Cold Duck (70's Top 40), Sycamore Canyon
Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.2 Movies Under the Stars — August 7, 2013 — Rise of the Guardians —
Immediately following Concerts in the Park, Sycamore Canyon
Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.3 Traffic and Transportation Commission Meeting — August 8, 2013 —
700 p.m., Windmill Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
5.4 Planning Commission Meeting — August 13, 2013 — 7:00 p.m.,
Windmill Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
5.5 Concerts in the Park — August 14, 2013 — 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
Kelly Rae Band (Country Pop), Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930
Golden Springs Drive.
5.6 Movies Under the Stars — August 14, 2013 — The Lorax —
Immediately following Concerts in the Park, Sycamore Canyon
Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.7 City Council Meeting August 20, 2013 - 6:30 p.m., Windmill
Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Tye moved, C/Herrera seconded, to approve
the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 6.4 and 6.6 pulled
further discussion by MPT/Everett. Motion carried by the following Roll
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 4 1CITY COUNCIL
Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, Tye, MPT/Everett
M/Tanaka
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT:COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
6.1 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES — Regular Meeting of July 16, 2013 —
Approved as amended.
6.2 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER — Dated July 11, 2013 through July
31, 2013 totaling $2,692,949.33.
6.3 APPROVED TREASURER'S STATEMENT for June 2013.
6.5 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2013-25: APPROVING THE
APPLICATION FOR $300,000 OF SUPERVISOR DON KNABE'S
2013 COMPETITIVE TRAILS GRANT PROGRAM FOR THE
GRANDVIEW TRAIL AND TRAIL LINK PROJECT IN THE
SUMMITRIDGE PARK TRAIL SYSTEM.
ITEMS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
6.4 APPROPRIATE $59,675 OF MEASURE R FUNDS AND $32,000
OF TDA FUNDS TO THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
BUDGET AND APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES CONTRACT TO
DMS CONSULTANTS, INC. FOR DESIGN OF THE GRAND
AVENUE ENHANCEMENT PROJECT ALONG GRAND AVENUE
AT THE DIAMOND BAR BOULEVARD AND LONGVIEW DRIVE
INTERSECTIONS IN THE AMOUNT OF $84,120 PLUS A.
CONTINGENCY AMOUNT OF $7,555 FOR A TOTAL
AUTHORIZATION OF $91,675.
MPT/Everett said he appreciated the response and understanding
of Council's concerns during tonight's Study Session. He wanted to
make sure that all other Council Members had an opportunity to
clarify their concerns or move forward.
C/Herrera moved, C/Chang seconded, to approve Consent
Calendar Item 6.4. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, Tye,
MPT/Everett, M/Tanaka
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
6.6 AUTHORIZE PURCHASE OF MOBILE TRAILER TO BE USED
FOR NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH MEETINGS AND OTHER
COMMUNITY EVENTS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$45,000 AND APPROPRIATE FUNDS FROM GENERAL FUND
RESERVES.
MPT/Everett asked that staff make a presentation.
CM/DeStefano stated that earlier this month the Council Public
Safety Sub -committee held a meeting with City staff and that at that
meeting staff made a presentation on a Neighborhood Watch and
Community Meeting mobile trailer. From that meeting came the
idea and concept that this matter be placed on the City Council's
agenda for consideration this evening.
ACM/Doyle reported that a few years ago when the City was
approached by the Sheriffs Department to purchase what was then
termed a Community Vehicle, the City, along with the City of
Walnut, the County of Los Angeles and Supervisor Don Knabe's
office each chipped in money to build what was then a recreational
vehicle that was outfitted for Neighborhood Watch as well as, a
Mobile Command Post. This vehicle has been in service for a
number of years and has certainly seen better days. The Sheriffs
Department and staff held discussions during which the Sheriff's
Department was asked how this vehicle functioned for
Neighborhood Watch meetings and the reality was that it did not
function very well. It was a vehicle that was trying to fill too many
purposes. This vehicle was also being used for a Command Post
and did not function well for that use either. Last year the City
Council authorized staff to approach the City's partner agencies
including Supervisor Knabe, City of Walnut and County of Los
Angeles, to dedicate this vehicle as a Mobile Command Post. The
refurbishment process has been completed and it will be featured
tomorrow night at "National Night Out". This vehicle is now almost
like a new vehicle but is strictly a Mobile Command Post and no
longer will be used for Neighborhood Watch.
Discussions continued about what could be done to enhance
Neighborhood Watch events because the City has a very active
Neighborhood Watch program it promotes in the community. The
conclusion was to develop a mobile trailer that is small enough to
be pulled by a small pickup truck or SUV and is similar to what is
called a "tailgate" trailer. He showed a photograph of the trailer and
how it functions. The trailer includes a complete audio/visual
system with a large screen monitor, awning and other equipment.
Neighborhood Watch meetings use a lot of presentation materials
in the form of video's, Power Point presentations, etc. to help
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
people learn how not to be crime victims. Staff would like to
purchase something similar to the concept and manufacture the
trailer similar to the concept shown that is small and compact and
something that opens up to display the information during a
Neighborhood Watch meeting. As the discussion evolved, it led to
consideration of other types of uses it could be used for, and thus,
will not only be used as a Neighborhood Watch trailer but also a
Diamond Bar Community trailer.
On the side of the trailer opposite the audio visual equipment there
will be a concession window that will allow a staff member to be
present in the unit at the City Birthday Party, for example, to hand
out materials, provide city information and answer questions.
ACM/Doyle said that staff is embarking on the process but does not
have funding which is why this item is before the Council this
evening. The request is for a funding authorization in the amount of
$45,000. The trailer will cost about $15,000; $7,500 in ancillary
equipment (generators, etc.); $10,000 for audio visual, and about
$5,000 to $7,500 for painting graphics. The request includes a
$5,000 contingency for things that may become apparent during the
development. With Council authorization it will take about four
months for design, manufacturing and outfitting. Staff recommends
City Council authorization for the purchase and appropriation of
funds from General Fund Reserves.
C/Herrera said she knows that many of the residents are concerned
about burglaries and home invasions, so for the City to have the
ability to take its "show on the road" and go to the neighborhoods
where they have those concerns, she believes is a very important
thing for the City to do.
C/Herrera moved, C/Tye seconded, to approve Consent Calendar
Item 6.6. Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, Tye,
MPT/Everett, M/Tanaka
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
7.1 ADOPT RESOLUTION NO: 2013-26: FINDING THE CITY OF
DIAMOND BAR IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE 2013 LOS
ANGELES COUNTY CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
(CMP) AND ADOPTING THE CMP LOCAL DEVELOPMENT
REPORT IN ACCORDANCE WITH CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 65089.
CM/DeStefano stated that this is an annual public hearing required
by Los Angeles County for the City of Diamond Bar to report on its
achievements and implementation of the Congestion Management
Program (CMP). This is typically an effort of the Public Works
Department as well as, the Community Development Department.
CDD/Gubman reported that as the City does every year around this
time, Community Development and Public Works staff prepare a
CMP compliance report and asks the Council to adopt a resolution
finding Diamond Bar to be in compliance with the Los Angeles
County Congestion Management Plan. All counties in the State are
required to have a Congestion Management Program in place.
CMP as it is called, are mandated under the provisions of the
Traffic Congestion Relief and Spending Limitation Act of 1990. The
two main goals of the CMP Is 1) to mitigate traffic impacts in the
county associated with new development and 2) to develop a
partnership among transportation decision makers on devising
appropriate transportation solutions that include all modes of travel.
The MTA is the agency responsible for preparing the CMP for Los
Angeles County. Diamond Bar, along with all other local agencies,
is required to meet the program requirements in the CMP in order
to be eligible to receive State gas tax funds and to maintain
eligibility for other transportation funding. Diamond Bar has thus far
received $1.25 million in gas tax for the prior fiscal year. The CMP
mandates self -certification at the local level through the adoption of
a resolution demonstrating the City's compliance with the 2013
CMP and submittal of a Local Development Report to MTA. A
public hearing is required prior to adopting this resolution. As
described in staff's report in the attached resolution and Local
Development Report, Diamond Bar remains in compliance with the
CMP for Los Angeles County. Staff therefore recommends that the
City Council adopt the resolution.
On behalf of PWD/Liu and myself, thank you for the opportunity to
present this report to the City Council this evening.
M/Tanaka opened the Public Hearing at 7:03 p.m.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
With no one present who wished to speak on this matter, M/Tanaka
closed the Public Hearing.
MPT/Everett moved, C/Chang seconded, to adopt Resolution No:
2013-26: Finding the City of Diamond Bar in conformance with the
2013 Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program
(CMP) and adopting the CMP Local Development Report in
accordance with California Government Code Section 65089.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Herrera, Tye,
MPT/Everett, M/fanaka
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
8. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: None
9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE
REPORTS/COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS:
C/Tye congratulated C/Chang who recently and officially took on her
duties as President of the Los Angeles Division of League of Cities. He
knows that she will lead that organization very well over the next 12
months. It was his privilege to be present for her installation by
Assemblyman Curt Hagman. Last week he spent time with Dr. Bob
Taylor, new Superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District. It
is good to hear what he has to say and C/Tye believes he is the right man
at the right time for the job. He has a vision of where he wants to lead
Walnut Valley going forward and not just rest on laurels from the myriad
successes they have had over the past many years. Congratulations and
welcome to Dr. Bob Taylor.
C/Herrera reported that she attended several meetings including meetings
with Foothill Transit, San Gabriel Valley COG, and Southern California
Association of Governments. Some of the more fun events included the
family picnic at the Diamond Bar/Walnut Sheriff's Station last Sunday. A
great time was had by all and it was great to see the deputies relaxing and
having fun with their families. Congratulations to President of the League
of California Cities, LA County Division, C/Chang. People traveled more
than three hours to get to the installation and participate and it was very
impressive. She also had a meeting with Dr. Bob Taylor and is very
impressed with the new Superintendent who is committed to interviewing
90 people in 90 days. She feels certain he will be successful.
C/Chang reminded residents they can follow her on Facebook, Twitter,
Pinterest and Foursquare. She too attended a meeting with the new
Superintendent of Walnut Valley Unified School District, Bob Taylor. She
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
asked him questions including whether or not he was familiar with this
community and found that he had actually taken time to know the
community which she really appreciates because it is different and there is
an emphasis on education. She also attended the Southern California
Edison Advisory Committee meeting. Recently, there was an outage that
affected approximately 1000 homes including hers. Fortunately, she had
an app called Southern California Edison Outages so she went to the app
to find out if it had been reported, when it was first reported and how many
were affected. The app also provides a "restoration eta" so she followed
very closely to see how accurate it was and it was accurate to within about
five minutes. One can go to iTunes and type in SE Outages. It is free.
She thanked her colleagues for taking time to attend her installation. She
was quite shocked by the turnout and very, very appreciative for the
presence of the entire City Council and her colleagues from the South Bay
and West LA areas. C/Herrera was correct in stating it took two to three
hours for them to travel to the installation. She thanked staff for doing
such a great job assisting the League.
MPT/Everett reported that following the last Council meeting on
Wednesday he attended the LA County monthly Library Commission
meeting and had the privilege of working on County Library business with
Pui Ching Ho. County Librarian Todd presided over the meeting and her
staff member, Debbie Anderson, spoke about Children's Services within
the LA County Library System.
Wednesday evening he attended the annual California Joint Powers
Insurance Authority where a very special man, Larry Van Nostran, whose
service in government began in Lakewood in 1971. He was the longest
serving Council Member in Lakewood's history with 37 years on the
governing body including serving as mayor nine times and serving his 10th
term on the City Council when he passed last November. Mr. Van
Nostran was the longest serving president in the Authority history
presiding since 1990.
The Vice -President, Curtis Morris was honored to open the annual
meeting in remembrance of Mr. Van Norstran following which Curtis
Morris, Mayor of San Dimas and a long -serving member of the Authority
was elected as president.
The third event MPT/Everett attended was the Friday Ribbon -Cutting for a
new national childcare learning center called Kiddie Academy on Cold
Springs Lane at the entrance of Super HMart. Wonderful facilities and
programs and he encouraged people to visit the owner, Tina Anand or
Director, Miss Gina or any of the staff. Folks will be pleased with the
service they offer.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 10 CITY COUNCIL
Saturday, July 20 he and M/Tanaka were at Diamond Bar High School
recognizing the top artists in the Second Annual Performing Arts
Competitive Awards Ceremony. They had piano, strings, guitar and
woodwinds divisions and of course, Diamond Bar High School Music
Director Steve Acciani was a part of that along with coordinator Joanna Lo
and a number of other teachers.
On Sunday he and M/Tanaka recognized Troop 730's newest Eagle
Scout, Jerry Xiao who is the last of the entire Road Runner Patrol.
Congratulations to Jerry and all of the Road Runner Patrol and Troop 730
Eagle Scouts.
Wednesdays he has enjoyed the Concerts in the Park and Movies with his
colleagues and staff, Sheriff's and Fire Departments and various vendors
of several organizations. He invited everyone to join in "National Night
Out" tomorrow night. The national sponsor is Target and it will begin at
6:30 p.m.
Thursday, July 25 he and M/Tanaka, LASD Sheriffs Department veterans
and retirees celebrated the retirement of Deputy Tim Broad. Thanks for
30 years of service, most of which was spent in and around Diamond Bar.
MPT/Everett also attended a San Gabriel Valley National Recreation Area
Designation Workshop which was held at San Dimas City Hall.
Congresswoman Judy Chu has been reviewing and studying this item for
probably 10 years. The final report was made in April of this year to
develop a National Recreation Area Designation for the San Gabriel
Valley. MPT/Everett believes that there is a need for it and should be
made available to Diamond Bar residents as well all residents and
visitors. It is an outstanding national resource for recreation. If you want a
copy of the final report you can do so by contacting him or obtain one
online.
Wednesday, July 31 he and M/Tanaka met with the City's Public Safety
Subcommittee. The Fire and Sheriff's Departments as well as, staff were
represented. The Fire Department discussed brush clearance programs.
There have been significant fires in our area and the recommendation is to
make sure that around your home and buildings you have a defensible
space, especially this year since Diamond Bar is experiencing the severe
drought conditions. The second item discussed was the CPR training at
local schools. Third is the coordination of a Staging Area for the first 24 -
hours of a significant large incident in the Diamond Bar area. The Sheriff's
Department discussed crime statistics. Overall Diamond Bar policing
programs and the good witness reporting is working. He reminded
everyone to be vigilant about vandalism. Recently, vandalism has
occurred at Pantera Park and it has taken staff resources and money to
repair the damage. There has also been significant theft of copper in the
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
area. Anyone observing vandals and any other criminal activity place an
emergency call. He too, enjoyed the induction and swearing in of
C/Chang. She is a wonder and she is going to do well. He was proud to
be there on her behalf and to showcase the Diamond Bar Center which
was well received by so many elected officials — well over 100, many of
whom had not been in Diamond Bar to see the facility which he thinks is
the greatest.
MPT/Everett also met with Walnut Valley Unified School District
Superintendent Dr. Bob Taylor. Thirty-six years ago he decided to move
to Diamond Bar because of the schools and he made the right decision.
But boy, times have changed with new challenges are facing the
education community. MPT/Everett commented that Dr. Bob Taylor is the
man to take on these challenges and he looks forward to working with him
to keep education a top priority in Diamond Bar.
He announced that Planning Commissioner Steve Nelson was moving out
of Diamond Bar and will be resigning his position on the Planning
Commission. He asked staff to assist him in scheduling a recognition
ceremony for Steve's long term leadership and service to the Planning
Commission and to announce to residents the vacancy.
M/Tanaka said he too was very busy during the past two weeks. He
attended the Ribbon Cutting for Kiddie Academy and congratulated owner
Tina for doing such a wonderful job with her business at the Super HMart
Shopping Center.
Friday, July 19 was Teen Night Out at Sycamore Canyon Park for teens
with plenty of outdoor games, prizes and snacks. He thanked
CSC/Meyers for coordinating a wonderful event for the kids.
That Saturday he attended the Diamond Bar Performing Arts Competition.
He thanked Joanna Lo and Steve Acciani and all of the other instructors
and volunteers. He congratulated all of the winners of all of the divisions
for woodwind, guitar, piano and strings. They were treated to a
performance by each of the students in a program that was intended to
last about two hours but continued for about three hours and 45 minutes
but heard some wonderful music.
On Sunday, July 21 he attended Eagle Scout ceremonies for Jerry Xiao
who attained the highest rank in Boy Scouting.
On Wednesday, July 24 he attended the LA County Sanitation District 21
monthly meeting during which he received several hazardous household
waste collection results.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL
On Thursday he met with Dr. Bob Taylor from Walnut Valley Unified
School District and looks forward to working collaboratively with the
District. He asked Dr. Taylor to stay on a more few years than his
predecessors, to communicate with staff and work closely with the City in
their Joint Agreement Use for some of the school fields.
He thanked Deputy Tim Broad from the Diamond Bar/Walnut Station
where he served 10 years and concluded his 30 -year career. Best wishes
to Deputy Broad.
On Saturday, July 27 he celebrated the breaking of fasting at the Muslim
Temple in Rowland Heights and on Monday, July 29 he attended the
Diamond Bar Community meeting in preparation for this year's Diamond
Bar Day at the Fair which will be on Thursday, September 5. There will be
a parade, entertainment and honor ceremonies for some of Diamond Bar's
Heroes — Youth Hero Atharshna Singarajah, Adult Hero Tony Torng and
Senior Hero Bea McMillan. That afternoon he attended the Junior Board
meeting for the Los Angeles County Fair orientation meeting where 34
juniors and seniors from the 17 local high schools are involved in a board
trying to improve the LA County Fair. Attendees had a chance to meet
each other and learn about each other, learn about the history of the LA
County Fair, participate in leadership activities and small group activities,
and received assignments.
This past Wednesday he attended a couple of subcommittee meetings,
the first of which was the Public Safety where Sheriff's and Fire
Departments were represented. The second meeting was on the
Neighborhood Improvement subcommittee with the topic of review being
the Shell Station at Palomino and Diamond Bar Boulevard which is in
receivership and the project is moving forward toward completion. On
Thursday, August 1, Diamond Bar Library had their summer finale for the
children's reading program at Sycamore Canyon Park. Miss Julie had
games, prizes and refreshments for all children in attendance. The event
was very successful and thanks to the library volunteers from the Diamond
Bar High School Leo Club and the City's Community Services Department
who set up all of the shelters for the event. Last Thursday was the LA
County Division League of California Cities installation where he
witnessed C/Chang being installed as President and its board. Everyone
in attendance enjoyed the Diamond Bar Center. He thanked City staff
members who worked so hard in conjunction with the League staff.
Last Sunday the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff's Station celebrated with
their families a wonderful picnic and a good time was had by all and a
wonderful barbecue hosted by the Deputy Sheriff's.
AUGUST 6, 2013 PAGE 13 CITY COUNCIL
The last three Wednesdays he has attended Concerts in the Park and
Movies under the Stars and tomorrow is National Night Out so everyone
please come out to meet their neighbors and keep our neighborhoods
safe.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, M/Tanaka
adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:28 p.m.
TOMM E CRIBBINS. CITY CLERK
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 20th day of August
2013.
JACK TANAKA, MAYOR