HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/17/2014 Minutes - Regular MeetingMINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF DIAMOND BAR
JUNE 17, 2014
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Carol Herrera called the Regular City
Council meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the South Coast Air Quality Management
District /Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar,
California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Herrera led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION: Monsignor James Loughnane, St. Denis
Catholic Church, gave the invocation.
ROLL CALL: Council Members Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
Mayor Pro Tem Tye and Mayor Herrera.
Staff Present: James DeStefano, City Manager; David
DeBerry, City Attorney; Dianna Honeywell, Finance Director; David Liu, Public
Works Director; Bob Rose, Community Services Director; Greg Gubman,
Community Development Director; Grace Lee, Senior Planner; Ken Desforges,
IS Director; Amy Haug, Human Resources Manager; Kimberly Young, Senior
Civil Engineer; Cecilia Arellano, Public Information Coordinator; and Tommye
Cribbins, City Clerk.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: As Presented.
1. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS, CERTIFICATES, PROCLAMATIONS:
NEW BUSINESS OF THE MONTH:
1.1 M/Herrera and City Council Members presented a Certificate
Plaque to David Chung, owner and staff members Ken (Store
Manager) and Kristen on behalf of Paris Baguette, 21050 Golden
Springs Drive C105, New Business of the Month for June 2014.
2. CITY MANAGER REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
2.1 Update on Year -to -Date Crime Statistics — LA County Sheriff's
Department:
CM/DeStefano reminded the community that it has been a little
over one year since Captain Scroggin joined the Diamond
Bar/Walnut.Station as its commander. Shortly after his arrival he
brought Lt. Tachias on board. As the City Council is aware, both
gentlemen came to this area with extensive experience working
throughout different positions inside the Los Angeles County
Sheriff's Department's operation, specifically on the patrol side.
These gentlemen are an outstanding team and great leaders.
Diamond Bar had great service from the station under the
leadership of Captain Halm and although CM/DeStefano thought
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 2 CITY COUNCIL
that things could not be done better, they have been for which he
thanks both Captain Scroggin and Lt. Tachias for the great work
they do on behalf of the community.
Tonight they will provide the community with statistics on reduction
in crime and other activities occurring within the Sheriff's Station.
Captain Scroggin provided a PowerPoint presentation on mid -year
crime statistics in the City. He stated that although crimes against
persons (homicide, rape, aggravated assaults) are up slightly this
year the Diamond Bar numbers are very low with 21 assaults (12
involving domestic violence over which the department has no
control) in 2014 and 17 in 2013. There have been 3 reported rape
cases in 2014 and 2 in 2013. These violent crimes are very
important to the Department and all involve associations between
the victim and suspect. Robberies (crimes against property) are at
6 for 2014 down from 16 last year. There have been 50 fewer
burglaries this year than there were in 2013. Commercial
burglaries are up slightly, which can be attributed to two separate
burglary series with suspects targeting the strip malls in the
community. Burglaries are down 35 percent from last year and
grand theft auto has declined by over 50 percent; and only one
crime of arson this year.
Lt. Tachias spoke about the importance of community involvement
in reducing crime. Deputies have made some great arrests, some
of which were made possible by citizen intervention and
involvement. Deputy Schiller has worked hard to establish a solid
Neighborhood Watch program and a Business Watch program and
has reached out to the schools and various businesses. Some
groups meet regularly and are very diligent about watching their
streets for a safer community. A recently initiated program is a
Special Problems Team which consists of Deputies Heidy
VillaSenor and Aaron Schiller and a third deputy to be named in
July.
Captain Scroggin stated that overall, for the first six months of 2014
crime is down by 30 percent, which is a substantial number
considering the amount of crimes perpetrated. In order to maintain
the downward trend, community education needs to continue to
gain momentum as well as the need to improve involvement of the
community and partnerships with the Neighborhood Watch
programs, all of which are the key to protecting the neighborhoods
of this bedroom community.
MPT/Tye asked Captain Scroggin to share with the community the
reason for more units on the day shift and how available resources
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 3 CITY COUNCIL
are deployed.
Captain Scroggin stated that his Department is involved in monthly
crime analysis meetings at headquarters, for which he must
prepare because he is held accountable for what happens on his
watch. In fact, he does crime analysis for his station on a daily
basis. Early on he realized that when there is a daytime burglary
problem the best method of fighting that problem is via daytime
patrol with black and white's on the street making traffic stops with
as many people from the Department as possible being active on
the streets. The Department has been able to keep the pressure
on by realigning a few of the units in the overhead model with about
seven extra units in the area of service. In short, the Department
practices a proactive response to trends. Anytime his Department
has needed extra resources CM/DeStefano and his staff have
come through for him. It is a great partnership between staff and
the Sheriff's Department.
MPT/Tye asked if the rewards program implemented by the City
has helped.
Deputy Tachias stated that rewards have been given to six or
seven citizen's and in fact, there is a reward being presented to a
citizen who was looking out his kitchen window and saw two men
approach his neighbor's house across the street from him. The
citizen did not recognize the men and observed that the men used
the recognizable MO of knocking on the door several times and
when no one answered went to the back of the house to gain entry.
The citizen dialed 911 to report the incident and as the suspects
were getting ready to leave the house deputies were onsite to
apprehend the suspects. The Department continually puts out the
word about the rewards program at various community gatherings.
MPT/Tye said that it is important to let residents know that if
something does not look right they should report it. As Captain
Scroggin previously stated, deputies do not mind going out and
finding out there was nothing to worry about because they would
rather be out there making their presence known. With AB109 it is
obvious that the Department stays on top of crime or these results
would not be recorded and he thanked them for all that they do.
M/Herrera thanked Captain Scroggin, Deputy Tachias and all of the
deputies for all of their good work in keeping Diamond Bar a safer
place and thanked residents who remain alert and vigilant to
helping the department.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 4 CITY COUNCIL
3. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Barbara Haney, Corporate Headquarters, Social Vocational Services, Inc.,
said the Company's mission is to serve persons with developmental
disabilities in community settings and offer the opportunity for
employment, which increases the individual's dignity and self-worth.
Through a cooperative venture Community Industries has operated out of
Lanterman Development Center which is closing June 30, and the clients
who were working under Community Industries will now become SVS
clients and under contract with the City, thanks to CSD/Rose. Clients will
provide litter and weed abatement services throughout the City and SVS
provides support, variety and success to the population it serves.
Melanie Coward, Regional Chamber of Commerce — San Gabriel Valley,
together with resident and businessman Joe Ruzicka and Ben Su,
Immediate Past President, thanked the City Council for giving the
Chamber an opportunity to provide services and seminars to businesses
and to the community of Diamond Bar. On June 19 the organization will
hold its installation gala at which time John Shu with STC Management
will be installed as president, as well as, honoring outgoing President
Mike Gregorich with Mt. SAC. She thanked the City Council for providing
support to the Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Pui Ching Ho, Diamond Bar Library, stated that the summer reading
program has begun and continues to August 16. Children, teens and
adults can earn prizes for reading. She spoke about a variety of programs
that are available throughout the summer and that information regarding
these programs can be found on the library's website at
www.colapublib.org
4. SCHEDULE OF FUTURE EVENTS:
5.1 Concerts in the Park — (25th Anniversary Concert) — June 18, 2014
— 6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m. Neo Nation (80's Tribute) — Sycamore
Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.2 Movies Under the Stars — June 18, 2014 — Immediately following
Concerts in the Park — The Little Mermaid — Sycamore Canyon
Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.3 Planning Commission Meeting — June 24, 2014 — 7:00 p.m.,
Windmill Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
5.4 Concerts in the Park — June 25, 2014 — 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.,
Doo-Wah Riders (Country) — Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930
Golden Springs Drive.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 5 CITY COUNCIL
5.5 Movies Under the Stars — June 25, 2014 — Immediately following
Concerns in the Park — Monsters University — Sycamore Canyon
Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.
5.6 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting — June 26, 2014 — 7:00
p.m., Windmill Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive.
5.7 City Council Meeting — July 2, 2014 — 6:30 p.m., SCAQMD
Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.
6. CONSENT CALENDAR: C/Lyons moved, C/Tanaka seconded, to
approve the Consent Calendar as presented with C/Lyons pulling Item 6.3
(c) for separate consideration. Motion carried by the following Roll Call
vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Lyons, Tanaka, MPT/Tye,
M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
6.1 APPROVED CITY COUNCIL MINUTES — Regular Meeting of June
3, 2014.
6.2 RATIFIED CHECK REGISTER DATED May 29, 2014 through June
11, 2014 totaling $1,732,701.95.
6.3 CONTRACT EXTENSIONS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
DEPARTMENT:
(a) AUTHORIZED TO EXCEED THE CITY MANAGER'S
PURCHASING AUTHORITY OF $25,000 TO EXTEND VENDOR
SERVICES FOR SENIOR AND ADULT EXCURSIONS PROVIDED
BY INLAND EMPIRE STAGES LIMITED, IN AN AMOUNT NOT -
TO -EXCEED $70,000 FOR FY 2014-15.
(b) APPROVED AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO, THE AGREEMENT WITH
ACCESS CONTROL SECURITY TO EXTEND THE CONTRACT
PERIOD TO JULY 1, 2014 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2015 IN THE
AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED $35;000.
(d) APPROVED AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO THE CONTRACT WITH
WEST . COAST ARBORISTS FOR CITYWIDE TREE
MAINTENANCE AND WATERING SERVICES FOR THE 2014-15
AND 2015-16 FISCAL YEARS IN THE AMOUNT NOT -TO -
EXCEED $233,439 EACH FISCAL YEAR.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 6 CITY COUNCIL
(e) APPROVED AMENDMENT NO. 6 TO THE CONTRACT WITH
TENNIS ANYONE TO AUTHORIZE A $6,000 INCREASE IN THE
CONTRACT TO AN AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED $62,000 FOR FY
2013-14.
(fl APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH CALIFORNIA
CONSERVATION CORP (CCC) FOR FY 2014-15 IN THE
AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED $40,000 TO COMPLETE TRAIL
REPAIR AND BRUSH CLEARANCE SERVICES THROUGHOUT
THE CITY.
(g) APPROVAL OF ASSIGNMENT OF WEEDS AND LITTER.
ABATEMENT CONTRACT FROM LANTERMAN
DEVELOPMENTAL CENTER TO SOCIAL VOCATIONAL
SERVICES.
6.4 APPROVED AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE CONSULTING
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DIANA CHO AND ASSOCIATES
FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES ($23,963) FOR FY
2014-15.
6.5 APPROVED AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO THE CONSULTING
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SJC3 CONSULTING IN THE
AMOUNT OF $20,000 TO ADMINISTER THE CITY'S HOME
IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (HIP) FOR FY 2014-15.
6.6 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2014-25: APPROVING PLANS
AND SPECIFICATIONS AND ESTABLISHING A PROJECT
PAYMENT ACCOUNT; AWARDED A CONSTRUCTION
CONTRACT FOR THE MEDIAN MODIFICATION PROJECT ON
DIAMOND BAR BOULEVARD AT KIOWA CREST DRIVE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $35,222.30 TO CARVAJAL TRUCKING &
TRACTOR, INC.; AND, AUTHORIZED A CONTINGENCY
AMOUNT OF $3,525 FOR CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS TO BE
APPROVED BY THE CITY MANAGER, FOR A TOTAL
AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT OF $38,747.30.
6.7 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2014-26: ESTABLISH PAYMENT
FUND AND APPROVING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS;
AWARDED THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE
CASTLE ROCK ROAD AND CROOKED CREEK DRIVE
NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
PROJECT TO CARVAJAL TRUCKING & TRACTOR, INC. IN THE
AMOUNT OF $29,366.85; AND, AUTHORIZED A CONTINGENCY
AMOUNT OF $3,000 FOR CONTRACT CHANGE ORDERS TO BE
APPROVED BY THE CITY MANAGER, FOR A TOTAL
AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT OF $32,366.85.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 7 CITY COUNCIL
6.8 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2014-27: ESTABLISH PAYMENT
FUND AND APPROVING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS;
AWARDED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE TRAFFIC
SIGNAL BATTERY BACKUP SYSTEM PROJECT AT FOURTEEN
(14) LOCATIONS, IN THE AMOUNT OF $131,138, TO TRAFFIC
DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, INC.; AND, AUTHORIZED A
CONTINGENCY AMOUNT OF $13,000 FOR CONTRACT
CHANGE ORDERS TO BE APPROVED BY THE CITY,
MANAGER, FOR A TOTAL AUTHORIZATION AMOUNT OF
$144,138.
6.9 APPROVED CONTRACT WITH THE REGIONAL CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE — SAN GABRIEL VALLEY, FOR FY 2014-15 IN AN
AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED $12,000.
6.10 APPROVED CONTRACT WITH KEYSER MARSTON
ASSOCIATES (KMA) TO PERFORM A MARKET
OPPORTUNITIES STUDY FOR A TOTAL NOT -TO -EXCEED
AMOUNT OF $50,000.
6.11 APPROVED CONTRACT WITH KOSMONT COMPANIES TO
PERFORM REAL ESTATE AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CONSULTING FOR A TOTAL NOT -TO -EXCEED AMOUNT OF
$30,000.
6.12 APPROVED A TWO-YEAR AGREEMENT (FY 2014-16) WITH
ONLINE TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT NOT -
TO -EXCEED $25,000 PER YEAR TO PROVIDE MINUTE
SECRETARIAL SERVICES FOR THE CITY COUNCIL,
COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES.
6.13 ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2014-28: ESTABLISHING AN
UNCLAIMED FUNDS POLICY IN ACCORDANCE WITH
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 50050-50056.
ITEMS WITHDRAWN FROM CONSENT CALENDAR:
6.3 CONTRACT EXTENSIONS FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES
DEPARTMENT:
(c) APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 4 TO THE VENDOR
SERVICES CONTRACT WITH D.H. MAINTENANCE SERVICES
TO EXTEND THE JANITORIAL AND BUILDING MAINTENANCE
SERVICES CONTRACT FOR THE LIBRARY, CITY HALL,
DIAMOND BAR CENTER, HERITAGE PARK COMMUNITY
CENTER, AND PANTERA PARK ACTIVITY ROOM, FOR THE
TERM OF JULY 1, 2014 TO JUNE 30, 2017 IN THE AMOUNT
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 8 CITY COUNCIL
NOT -TO -EXCEED $268,832 PER YEAR.
C/Lyons asked why the Library is included for an annual amount of
$43,325 when the facility is being run by the County and why the
City would be paying for cleaning and maintenance.
CM/DeStefano responded that the $43,325 is the allocated amount
for maintenance of the library. This particular consent calendar
item is for a three-year term which translates to $43,325 for each
year over the next three years.
The City of Diamond Bar was interested in expanding the size of
the old undersized library facility on Grand Avenue. As part of the
negotiation process with the County Librarian and with the
assistance of Supervisor Knabe's office, staff looked at the cost for
operating a brand new library that was physically two to three times
larger than the existing library, which was a little less than 10,000
square feet. The actual leased space in the City Hall building is a
little under 19,000 square feet, minus hallways, restrooms, the
Windmill Room, etc. which brings the actual square footage closer
to about a 26,000 square foot library facility. One of the significant
interests of the library was the labor costs. A small library did not
require as many personnel and the current j -shaped library requires
additional personnel which added cost. The negotiating parties
agreed that the County would pick up the necessary labor costs to
support the new library and that the City would pick up the
maintenance costs. Since the grounds and the building are owned
by the City, the City felt it was the most appropriate use of its
resources and contribution to ensure that the facility remained at
the level and standards the City holds high for all of its properties.
As part of the agreement for the library to come to the City Hall
building and to expand their services and to take on additional labor
costs, the City agreed to take on the maintenance responsibilities.
Therefore, the City pays for the grounds maintenance as well as,
the maintenance for the facility and the work D&H Maintenance
does each and every day .throughout the day within the library and
City Hall, per the agreement by the City Council, LA County Library
and the LA County Supervisor's office guaranteeing a minimum 40 -
year relationship.
C/Lyons said that City is doing a very good job of maintaining the
library which is a major improvement from the old library.
JUNE 17. 2014 PAGE 9 CITY COUNCIL
C/Lyons moved, C/Chang seconded, to approve Item 6.3 (c).
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPTlTye, M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
7. PUBLIC HEARING:
7.1 LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPE DISTRICTS 38, 39 AND 41.
(a) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2014-29: LEVYING AN
ASSESSMENT ON LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
NO. 38 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014-15.
(b) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2014-30: LEVYING AN
ASSESSMENT ON LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
NO. 39 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014-15.
(c) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2014-31: LEVYING AN
ASSESSMENT ON LANDSCAPING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
NO. 41 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014-15.
CM/DeStefano stated that this evening's public hearing regarding
Lighting and Landscape Districts 38, 39 and 41 is being considered
during the annual meeting wherein the Council adopts a resolution
that levies assessments for services provided within these districts
for the 2014-15 Fiscal Year. These are assessments that were
inherited by the City when it incorporated and the City has never
increased the rates for these districts. There are a variety of
services that are provided for the residents that are benefited by the
fees associated with these districts.
PWD/Liu reported that the first District is District No. 38 for which
the Fiscal Year 2014-15 total annual budget is $367,237 of which
$268,305 in assessment revenue is anticipated from the $15 per -
parcel annual levy rate. Together with a budget of $98,932 from
the General Fund, this approved budget will pay for the operation
and maintenance costs in District No. 38. The landscape
improvements to be made for this District include the citywide
parkways and medians, which equates to a total maintenance area
of 10.34 acres and the total number of parcels within the district is
17,887. Staff recommends that the assessment amount of $15 per -
parcel to be confirmed and that the resolution levying the
assessment for FY 2014-15 be adopted by the City Council.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 10 CITY COUNCIL
District No. 39's Fiscal Year 2014-15 total annual budget is
$279,237 of which $162,630 in assessment revenue is anticipated
from the $130 per -parcel annual levy rate. Together with a budget
of $116,607 from the General Fund, this approved budget will pay
for the operation and maintenance costs in District No. 39. The
landscape improvements to be maintained by this District are the
mini -parks, slopes and open space areas, which equates to a total
maintenance area of 60.45 acres and the total number of parcels is
1,251 for the neighborhood -specific assessment district. Staff
recommends that the assessment amount of $130 per -parcel to be
confirmed and that the resolution levying the assessment for FY
2014-15 be adopted by the City Council.
District No. 41's Fiscal Year 2014-15 total annual budget is
$223,537 of which $122,157 in assessment revenue is anticipated
from the $220.50 per -parcel annual levy rate. Together with a
budget of $17,000 from Prop A Safe -Park Funds and $84,380 from
the General Fund this approved budget will pay for the operation
and maintenance costs in this District. The landscape
improvements to be maintained by District No. 41 are the slopes
and open space areas, which reflects a total maintenance area of
15.6 acres. The estimated number of parcels within this District is
554. Staff recommends that the assessment amount of $220.50
per -parcel to be confirmed and that the resolution levying the
assessment for FY 2014-15 be adopted by the City Council.
PWD/Liu reiterated that all three districts were established by the
County prior to the City's incorporation in 1989. Accordingly, the
assessment rates that have been in place since 1989 have never
been changed. In addition to staff, John Frederick, Assessment
Engineer, the engineer who worked closely with staff to prepare the
engineering report, is present this evening to respond to any
questions the City Council may have.
M/Herrera opened the Public Hearing at 7:20 p.m.
Bill Holbrow asked if the engineers planned to continuewith this
inherited and antiquated system or combine the three districts into
one district.
PWD/Liu explained that when these districts were created and the
purpose was clearly established from the onset. Assessment
District No. 38 was created so that the parkways and medians
within the public right-of-way throughout the City could be
maintained (Diamond Bar Boulevard, Grand Avenue and Golden
Springs Drive). Assessment Districts No. 39 and 41 are much
smaller districts and include mini -parks and open space, which
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 11 CITY COUNCIL
require maintenance, brush clearance, etc. These districts are in
very specific neighborhood areas and the County, working very
closely with the developers at the time, established these districts
to maintain the open areas outside residential properties. Without
this mechanism the private property owners would be responsible
for the maintenance. There are different assessments for each of
the districts. For example, every property owner in the City of
Diamond Bar pays the $15 per -parcel annual levy rate which goes
toward the operation and maintenance for the citywide medians
and parkways. Only those living within Districts 39 and 41 pay
additionally for their specific areas. For many years the City's
General Fund has subsidized all three districts.
CA/DeBerry responding to the question of incorporating three
districts into one district stated that the problem is that under Prop
218 the property owners would have to vote to assess any
additional properties. Assessments outside of areas where the
property owners initially voted for these assessments cannot be
assessed at any higher rates and the City would have to show that
particular properties were benefitted by the property that is being
maintained and a study would have to be completed to show that
all properties were benefited by the landscape maintenance
districts. He believes it would be very problematic to combine
essentially two districts that were voted upon by two different
property owner groups at the time, and where there was a study
made showing there was a specific benefit to the properties within
those districts. At this point, the entire process would have to be
undertaken all over again and most likely go out to a vote to the
property owners to establish the assessment.
With no further public testimony being offered, M/Herrera closed
the Public Hearing at 7:25 p.m.
MPT/Tye said that when he moved to his property in 1982 he paid
$15 for his assessment and 15 years later he is still paying $15. He
asked for confirmation from staff that this is not a tax increase
because that was a question he had from his constituents during
his re-election campaign.
CM/DeStefano responded that this is not a tax increase. This is the
same rate that has been in the City since and prior to incorporation.
MPT/Tye asked what would happen if the Council failed to take the
action that staff is recommending.
CM/DeStefano responded that if the Council did not take the action
staff is recommending there would be no assessment on the next
JUNE 17. 2014 PAGE 12 CITY COUNCIL
E.
tax bill that would go out to the residents in Diamond Bar and those
costs would be bourne by the City's General Fund because the City
would presumably wish to continue maintaining the medians,
roadways and lighting in arterial streets and presumably wish to
maintain the parks, common areas, hillsides and pursue other
benefits that have been received in Districts 39 and 41 at the
anticipated level of service — again, those costs would be bourne
solely by the City's General Fund.
MPT/Tye said that while the Lighting and Landscape Districts have
not seen a Cost of Living type of increase over 25 years, they do
not pay for themselves and the City dips into its General Fund for
an amount in excess of $200,000 to maintain the three districts by
passing the resolutions. If the resolutions were not passed, the hit
to the City's General Fund would be triple the $200,000.
M/Herrera moved, C/Lyons seconded, to adopt Resolution No.
2014-29, Resolution 2014-30 and Resolution No. 2014-31.
C/Chang said she understood MPT1Tye's concern and quest for
clarification. During her campaign for re-election her response to
residents when asked if this was a tax increase, was that for any
increase to occur a Prop 218 process would have to be undertaken
and the City has not asked for any increase in the levies.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPT/Tye,
M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION:
8.1 CONSIDERATION OF DESIGN OF SITE D PUBLIC PARK AND
RECOMMENDATION FOR THE NAME TO BE DIAMOND
CANYON PARK.
CM/DeStefano stated that this item was presented to the City
Council on May 6 at which time the Council asked staff and the
affected neighborhood to discuss certain issues in more detail.
CSD/Rose stated that this item was presented to the City Council
for approval at its May 6 meeting. The City Council approved the
portion of the concept plan east of the Brea Canyon Channel and
directed staff to conduct a neighborhood meeting to discuss options
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 13 CITY COUNCIL
for the portions of the park area west of the channel. In addition,
the City Council directed staff to research park names related to the
history of Diamond Bar. Staff conducted the neighborhood meeting
on May 29 at Heritage Park Community Center which was attended
by about 50 area residents. During the two hour meeting there was
much discussion about the parking lot, traffic considerations and
park amenities. The meeting resulted in a general consensus to
support the original concept plan presented to the City Council on
May 6. In addition, after reviewing 11 potential park names offered
by staff, residents strongly supported "Diamond Canyon Park" to be
the name of the park.
With respect to the discussion of the parking lot, according to the
Americans with Disabilities Act, accessible parking for the
handicapped must be included as an element of this park project.
At other city -owned parks in Diamond Bar, neighborhood parks
without parking lots have accessible parking spaces marked on the
adjacent residential streets. These parks include Starshine,
Washington and Silver Tip. Parking on the streets adjacent to Site
D is not recommended; therefore, staff believes a parking lot is
required at the location.
After receiving input from the City's Traffic Engineer, it was
determined that the best driveway location was along Brea Canyon
Road as far from the Diamond Bar Boulevard intersection as
possible. The consensus at the neighborhood meeting was to keep
the parking lot in its proposed location with the configuration
contained in the concept plan presented to Council on May 6. This
plan strikes a balance between the residents' desire to keep the
amenities as planned for the west side of the park and keeps the
cars of the park visitors off of the residential streets.
Another issue that was discussed during the neighborhood meeting
was gate access from Castle Rock Road, which was to include the.
gate at the cul-de-sac as originally recommended .on the May 6
concept plan. However, staff agrees with residents' concerns that it
is important to keep park visitors from parking along the narrow
Castle Rock Road. So, the consensus at the meeting was to install
a lockable gate between Castle Rock Road and the park, and have
staff or the maintenance contractor lock and unlock the gate each
day. At other City facilities that operate similar to this proposed
park such as the Skate Park, the City's field attendant who is on
duty seven days a week locks the gate at night and the
maintenance contractor who is also on duty seven days a week
unlocks the gate in the morning.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 14 CITY COUNCIL
Staff recommends approval of the Site D Concept Plan as
presented and adoption of the name "Diamond Canyon Park".
C/Lyons asked if a recycle trash container would be included with
the regular trash container as part of the amenities.
CSD/Rose responded that there will be trash receptacles
throughout the park and recyclable trash cans will be included in at
least two locations east and west of the channel.
M/Herrera invited public comment.
With no one present who wished to speak on this matter, M/Herrera
closed public comments.
CA/DeBerry responded to M/Herrera that the items could be
considered as one for purposes of voting.
C/Chang moved, C/Tanaka seconded, to approve the concept plan
for Site D and approve the park name to be "Diamond Canyon
Park" as recommended by staff. Motion carried by the following
Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPT/Tye,
M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
None
8.2 (A) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2014-32: APPROVING THE
2014 CITYWIDE SPEED ZONE SURVEY AS AMENDED BY
COUNCIL: AND,
(B) APPROVE FOR FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY, WAIVE
FULL READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 06(2014): AMENDING
SECTION 10.12.310 OF THE DIAMOND BAR MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO PRIMA FACIE SPEED LIMITS FOR SPECIFIED
CITY STREETS.
CM/DeStefano said that the time had come for the City Council to
review and consider a new Speed Zone Survey that establishes
speed limits on specified city streets. It has been awhile since this
has been done and it is necessary that the City Council consider
and take action this evening on the survey. At the conclusion of
SCE/Young's presentation, the City Council has two items to
consider: 1) Adoption of a Resolution and 2) First Reading by Title
Only of an Ordinance.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 15 CITY COUNCIL
SCENoung stated that in order to legally establish and enforce
speed limits, the California Vehicle Code requires that speed limits
be developed on the basis of a Traffic and Engineering Speed Zone
Study. A variety of criteria are considered in this process including
prevailing vehicle speeds, accident records, traffic volumes,
roadway design, pedestrian traffic and other conditions not readily
apparent to motorists. The approved methodology requires local
authorities to establish speed limits on street and highway
segments in five (5) mile -per -hour increments at or near the speed
that 85 percent of drivers travel on a particular street or highway
segment (the 85th Percentile Speed). On August 3, 2004, the City
Council approved the last Speed Zone Study establishing the
existing speed limits on City streets. In anticipation of the 2004
study reaching its 10 -year term on August 3, 2014, staff worked
with the City's Traffic Engineer and Consultant, Warren C. Siecke,
who resurveyed the City's entire roadway network to complete a
new Speed Zone Study which has been included as part of the
Council's agenda packet this evening. Also included in the packet
is a map showing the proposed speeds that the study established.
The study recommends existing speed limits to remain unchanged
based on the 85th Percentile Speed that was surveyed with the
exception of the following 10 streets as were shown on the screen
and in Council's packets. The majority of the streets are proposed
to have decreased speed limits; however, there are three streets
the study identified to have increased speed limits which are Brea
Canyon Road between Via Sorella and Pathfinder Road; Golden
Springs Drive between Lemon Avenue to 900 feet west of Gona
Court; and, Valley Vista Drive between Copley Drive and Bridge
Gate Drive. Staff agrees with the proposed speed limit changes
with the exception of Brea Canyon Road between Via Sorella and
Pathfinder Road and Valley Vista Drive between Copley Drive and
Bridge Gate Drive and based on the existing roadway
characteristics, input from the Sheriff's Department and local
knowledge of driver behavior, staff recommends maintaining the
existing speed limits on those two segments. If Council
concurrence is achieved, staff recommends that the City Council
adopt the Study presented by the City's Traffic Consultant with
proposed speed limit changes for all segments except for the
segments of Brea Canyon Road between Via Sorella and
Pathfinder Road and Valley Vista Drive between Copley Drive and
Bridge Gate Drive. As discussed, staff proposes that speeds on
these two segments remain unchanged.
The recommendation before Council tonight is to adopt Resolution
No. 2014-32, approving the 2014 Citywide Speed Zone Survey as
amended by City Council and approve for First Reading by Title
JUNE 17. 2014 PAGE 16 CITY COUNCIL
Only, Ordinance No. (06) 2014 amending Section 10.12.310 of the
Diamond Bar Municipal Code regarding Prima Facie Speed Limits
for specified City streets.
MPT/Tye asked how the reduction of speed issue would be
handled by law enforcement on August 1.
CA/DeBerry said that the street would have to be posted for the
lower speed limit in order to be enforced and it would be enforced
as if the speed limit was 40 mph irrespective of how fast one was
used to driving (85th percentile), irrespective of what the speed limit
was in the past (45 mph), and a reduction in speed limit
enforcement issue would be applied at the reasonable discretion of
the Sheriff's Department. One instance in which he has
experienced some enforcement leeway is when stop signs
suddenly appear on streets where there were previously no stop
signs. In those cases the Sheriff's Department determines whether
the enforcement will be "educational" or whether a citation will be
issued.
M/Herrera asked for public comment.
Lew Herndon asked what the costs will be for replacing signs.
PWD/Liu responded that the costs would be nominal for replacing a
few existing signs. The average cost per sign is about $200 each
and the cost will be paid using existing maintenance resources.
M/Herrera asked Counsel if A&B should be considered separately
or together.
CA/DeBerry responded that since A is a Resolution and B is an
Ordinance, the items should be considered separately.
MPT/Tye moved, C/Lyons seconded to approve Resolution 2014-
32, approving the 2014 Citywide Speed Zone Survey as amended
by Council. Motion approved by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPT/Tye, M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
MPT/Tye moved, C/Tanaka seconded, to approve for First Reading
by Title Only, waive full reading of Ordinance No. 06(2014):
Amending Section 10.12.310 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code
relating to prima facie speed limits for specified City streets. Motion
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 17 CITY COUNCIL
carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPT/Tye,M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: None
8.3 APPROVAL OF WINDMILL EASEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
AGREEMENT.
CM/DeStefano stated that there are many people in this community
that have, for quite a number of years, believed that the historic
windmill located on the property where the Ralph's Grocery Store
was previously located was owned by the City of Diamond Bar or at
the very least believed somehow that the windmill was under the
City's stewardship, which has not been the case. The windmill is a
privately held property and resource that was relocated to its
current site when the shopping center was built about 40 years ago.
Within the last couple of years a new property owner who provides
maintenance for that and another shopping center in Diamond Bar
headed by Super H Mart, has maintained ownership of the entire
shopping center. The company, The Retail Opportunities
Investments Corporation, was interested in refurbishing the
shopping center, adding new tenants and becoming good corporate
citizens in the community and took the opportunity to work with staff
on securing the City's ownership or control of the windmill and its
property. A variety of opportunities were discussed with the CEO of
the ROI Corporation, who came to an understanding with staff
whereby the ROI Corporation would grant the City an easement
and a maintenance agreement for the windmill.
Before Council this evening is the windmill easement and
maintenance agreement that resulted from those discussions and
understandings. What this agreement does is provide for, in theory
in perpetuity, but by the details in 25 -year increments with
automatic renewal, the maintenance and control of the windmill,
which would allow the City to be responsible for the upkeep and
maintenance of the windmill as well as, the property on which the
windmill sits. The easement runs with the land so should there be
a sale of the property in the future, the City would continue to
maintain the easement and maintenance agreement for the
windmill.
Since the City has not been maintaining the property, staff looked
at the condition of the windmill to determine what work would need
to be done immediately and what work would be required on an
annual basis. Fundamentally at this time, it needs some structural
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 18 CITY COUNCIL
repair and/or replacement including the platform at the top of the
windmill, which is used to maintain the windmill. There needs to be
a fresh coat of paint on the windmill and to maintain the character it
would be a distressed look that would deal with any present and
future rust issues. The lighting needs to be enhanced to light up
the entire windmill. Staff believes the initial investment would be
about $5,000 and the work would be performed by City
maintenance staff. On an annual basis, the property would need to
be inspected, moving elements would need to be greased and
those items would most likely amount to $1500 or less on an
annual basis. The agreement which was negotiated between City
Staff and the Property owner, is for the windmill and the base of the
windmill comprised of a concrete pad with lighting. Staff would ask
that the Council consider the proposal and approve the
recommended action that would result in the City's permanent
stewardship of the windmill as an historic asset.
M/Herrera asked for public comments.
With no one present who wished to speak on this item, M/Herrera
closed public comments.
MPT/Tye moved, C[Tanaka seconded, to approve the Windmill
Easement and Maintenance Agreement as recommended by staff.
Motion carried by the following Roll Call vote:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Chang, Lyons, Tanaka,
MPT/Tye,
M/Herrera
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
None
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS:
None
9. COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS AND MEETING ATTENDANCE
REPORTS/COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS:
C/Chang said that as usual, residents can follow her on Twitter, Facebook,
Foursquare and Instagram. She thanked Captain Scroggin and Lt.
Tachias for their great work on behalf of the City with a 32.6 percent
reduction in crime. She hoped everyone would join in the Concerts in the
Park and Movies under the Stars tomorrow night and for the rest of the
season.
C/Tanaka reported that on Wednesday, June 4 he attended the promotion
ceremony at Armstrong Elementary School. Congratulations to the sixth
grade students who will move on to middle school in the fall. That evening
he attended the last meeting for the American Cancer Society's Relay for
Life and that Friday he participated in setting up the site for the Lions and
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 19 CITY COUNCIL
Leo's roaring team. Saturday June 7 and 8 he attended the Relay for Life
at Lorbeer Middle School and congratulated Mr. and Mrs. Paul Medina on
their marriage at the end of the relay. On June 10 he attended the
Diamond Bar Senior Citizens Club Father's Day Luncheon. June 12 he
attended the fundraising breakfast at the Boys and Girls Club of Pomona
Valley. On June 16 he attended the LA County Fair's Junior Fair Board
Advisory Committee meeting and on Friday, June 13th he attended the
Tiny Tot's graduation at Pantera Park and Heritage Park. He thanked
CSC/Meyers for coordinating the program and event and a special thank
you to the teachers. He wished his wife Wanda a Happy Anniversary
celebrating 42 years of marriage.
C/Tanaka asked that tonight's meeting be adjourned in memory of James
Farmer, long time Diamond Bar resident and 20 -year member of the
Diamond Bar Lions Club and offered his condolences to his wife Emma
and the family.
C/Lyons congratulated C/Chang on winning one of the top two spots to
move on to the general election. She is very happy that staff figured a
way to get control of the windmill and looks forward to it being upgraded
and beautified. She also appreciated the update on the crime statistics
and appreciates the Department's efforts.
She again asked staff to consider a flag retirement ceremony for Diamond
Bar as is done in other cities perhaps to take place during the Veterans'
Day Celebration or during the 4th of July celebration, as a way for
residents to bring their flags in to be handled in a respectful manner.
MPT/Tye said that last Thursday he represented the City as its Delegate
at the Vector Control District. As the Sheriff said it is important that if a
resident sees something that does not look right, so it is with Vector
Control dealing with the Asian Tiger Mosquito, it is very, very important
with the heat and standing puddles of water that when a resident comes
upon this type of scenario that he or she call Vector Control so that the
situation can immediately be addressed.
He asked staff to put together information for the Council's consideration
about political signs in Diamond Bar. As an example, the City of Chino
Hills has an ordinance that says that candidates must post a $250 fully
refundable deposit to ensure the proper placement and timely removal of
the signs and was shocked to find the ordinance included private property.
There are candidates that have signs in the City that do not live here that
did not win and he is not confident that they will be coming to Diamond
Bar to pick up those signs - so part of the regulation he liked in Chino Hills
was a $20 fee per sign for removal of illegally placed political signs and
signs not removed within 10 days following the election. He wished his
wife Patty a Happy 38th Anniversary in nine days.
JUNE 17, 2014 PAGE 20 CITY COUNCIL
M/Herrera thanked the Sheriff's Department for the presentation tonight
and thanked the members for all that they do. Criminals are being
apprehended. Recently, three men who were recently apprehended, will
receive prison sentences for the rooftop bank heists, two of which
occurred in Diamond Bar. She especially thanked the Sheriff's
Department for capturing these criminals and letting everyone know that
Diamond Bar has zero tolerance for crime.
M/Herrera also thanked the Fire Department for the "hands -only" CPR
session outside of the library a couple of weeks ago. She signed up,
completed her demonstration and received her certificate. CPR is a very
important thing to learn and teaching the kids in the library about CPR was
also very important because no one knows when they might be called
upon to assist in saving a life which sometimes children are called upon to
do. She congratulated C/Chang for winning top vote for Assembly and
wished her success as she moves on to the general election.
ADJOURNMENT: With no further business to conduct, M/Herrera
adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:05 p.m. in memory of James
Farmer.
J
T`OMMY CRIBBINS,CITY CLERK
The foregoing minutes are hereby approved this 1st day of JulY
2014.
CAROL HERRERA, MAYOR