HomeMy WebLinkAboutSEPTEMBER 5,1995
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CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS ARE TAPE RECORDED AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY
CLERK
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA
and the
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 5, 1995
The City CouncU and the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency met In a regular meeting at 7:00
p.m., Tuesday, September 5, 1995 In the Arcadia City Hall CouncU Chambers.
INVOCATION Reverend Russell T. WUllams, The Santa Anita Church
PLEDGE OF Mr. Jack Teel, Residenl of Arcadia
ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL PRESENT:
ABSENT:
CouncUmembers Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
1.
PRESENTATIONS
la.
ARCADIA
COAST
UTILE
LEAGUE SA.
GIRLS DIV.
ALL STARS
Mayor Lojeskllntroduced the Arcadia Coast Uttle League Senior Girls Division SoftbaJll995
All Star Champions - District 17. The Mayor's Certificale of Commendation In recognttlon
and appreclalion of outstanding achievement was presented to each member of the team
and their manager, Larry Rodriguez.
2. SUPPLEMENTAl INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS -
REPORTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/STATEMENTS
06", . rl./
The CIty Manager presented an update on the Downtown 2000 Project. CouncU adopted
an emergency resolution giving staff authority to suspend the contract wtth Sully-MUler, the
Downtown 2000 construction firm, and obtain a new contractor to perform the emergency
work for the flood control, streets. curbs and gutters and other minor Improvements. Since
that time a lot of work has been done. and Is presen1ly ahead of schedule. Staff anticipates
that the work will be finished as outlined In CouncU Resolution No. san, and. barring any
unusual condttlons, the emergency work will be completed on time. consistent with the plans
and specifications. Further updates wUI be provided to the CouncU.
QUESTIONS FROM CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY REGARDING
ClARIFICATION OF AGENDA ITEMS
I'IS/'
3.
None
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9/5/95
ORD. & RES.
READ BY
TITLE ONLY
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37:0245
It was MOVED by CouncUmember Chang, seconded by Mayor Pro tem Kuhn and CARRIED
on roll call vote as lollows lhal ordinances and resolutions be read by litle only and lhallhe
reading In full be WAIVED.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeski
None
None
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Sandv Wu, 761 Katherine Lane, stated, In part, that she Is on the Board of the Arcadia
Beaut~u1 Commission and President of the Arcadia Chinese American Association. She
stated that the Association Is in favor of the proposed visit by the Arcadia Pollee Chief to
Taiwan because it will provide understanding of the Chinese culture, improve
communication, and be helpful In Improving community salety. This trip Is not lor any other
purpose. The Govemment of the Republic of China In Taiwan will sponsor the cost of hotel
and meals for two oIIicers; the Association will pay for the round trip air fares. She hopes
that this trip can be arranged as originally scheduled. Ms. Wu presented a check to Mayor
Lojeskl, payable to the City, from the Arcadia Chinese American Association in the amount
of $2,000.
Richard Havden, 1810 South Santa Anita Avenue, stated, In part, that he represents a
business named Burger Palace at 46 Las Tunas Avenue. He Is present to complain about
actions of the Arcadia Police Department In attempting to discourage customers from
patronizing his restaurant. He has complained to the Police Department about these
actions. The City Attorney noted that litigation Is Involved with this Individual. The City
Attorney also noted that under the Penal Code, Mr. Hayden can IDe a CItizen's Complaint
which would be processed and reviewed.
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Curt KIna. 31 Camomla Street, stated, In part, that he Is the Second Vice President of the
Arcadia Chinese American Association. He Is present to speak In favor of the proposed trip
by the Arcadia Police Chief to Taiwan. He thinks this Is a meaningful thing to do, and will
help the Police Chief to know more about Asian culture, partlculariy how to deal with their
problems. It wUl also be helpful to have a network system with the Taiwan pollee. The trip
will also enhance the relationship between the Arcadia Pollee Department and the Asian
community. The Arcadia Chinese American Association Is donating $2.000 for air fare lor
two oIIicers. Also, he understands that the government of the Republic of China In Taiwan
has offered to sponsor food and hotel costs in Taiwan. He urged Council approval of this
trip.
Rose MIaII, 1019 Falrvlew Avenue, Unll A, stated, In part, that she Is very much In favor 01
this proposed trip 01 the Arcadia Police Chief to Taiwan. This matter is In the open. She
lhlnk8 II wUI be an honor to accept the trip and the donation for expenses.
Daniel Un, 519 South Thltd Avenue, Unit A, stated, In part, that he is the Assistant VIce
Presldent 01 Preferred Bank, Alhambra. He stated that the Asian population In Arcadia Is
growlng. The proposed trip to Taiwan Is an opportunity for creative communication and
fuller understanding among all the Arcadians. This should also help promote safety and
security among the races.
Loretta Huana, 525 West Wistaria Avenue, stated, In part, that she Is prlnclpaJ of an adult
schaal with the Alhambra School District, serving citles of Alhambra, Monterey Park,
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5.
CITY CLERK
(Voting
Delegate &
Alternate -
League Calif.
Cities Conf.)
a" >C) -'<0
ULRICH
(Scavenger
Hot Une)
(Stray
Shopping
Carts)
(T elevislng
CC Emerg.
Mtgs.)
O'C/v-. ''J
rV~p
37:0246
Rosemead and San Gabriel. She Is also a Member 01 the California Edison Educational
Advisory Cound, Asian Pacific FamUy Center and the Vice President 01 the Chinese
American Education Association of Southem Califomia. She has attended several
presentations by Police Chief Garner, and the community appreciates his devotion in
educating citizens. She supports the proposal that Chief Garner visit Taiwan. The invitation
Is from a foreign country with whom the United States has had a long history 01 friendship.
The Arcadia Chinese American Association will pay for the air fares. so the trip wUI not result
In cost to the City. This trip wUI be a promotion of good will among the citizens of Arcadia
and the people 01 the two countries. Asian gang activity Is increasing, and Is affecting more
communitIes. earlier this year, four Asian gangsters attempted a home Invasion robbery
at her home. Some 01 the pollee chiefs In neighboring cities have been to Asia and are
maintaining dose contact with the Asian communities, and have been actively serving on
an advisory councU to help reduce Asian jlNenUe gang Involvement. She Is also speaking
on behalf 01 friends and associates who have concerns about gang members who are
attending Arcadia schools, and adolescents who Invade our community. She believes the
proposed trip to Taiwan by the Arcadia Pollee Chief would directly benefrt everyone.
MATTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS
On MOTION by CouncUmember Ulrich, seconded by Councllmember Young and CARRIED
on roll call vote as follows, Mayor Lojeskl was appointed to be the voting delegate. with
Mayor Pro tem Kuhn as alternate to represent the City of Arcadia at the League 01 Califomia
Cities Annual Conference October 22-24. 1995, In San Francisco.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councimembers Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
None
Councllmember Ulrich commented that the scavenger hot line operated successfully at his
condominium. The hot line number had been posted. One of his neighbors spotted
scavengers and called the police. A police offlcer arrived promptly and apprehended the
persons where they had moved to another location on the same street. We should advertise
this number so people will know this service Is available.
Councllmember Ulrich noted with regard to the stray shopping cart problem, he notices
fewer shopping carts In the neighborhood, so apparently the stray shopping cart hot line
Is effective. Also he noticed that the 99 Cent Store on Duarte Road has enclosed a small
space In front 01 their store, and Is not allowing shopping carts to be taken beyond that
point. The store provides a derk to help customers load purchases Into their car. He does
not know if this would be a solution for other stores, but It Is effective at that particular
location.
CouncDmember Ulrich commented that he fell that City Council emergency meetings should
be scheduled at 7:00 p. m. The recent meeting was scheduled at 5:00 p. m. ThIs Is too
early to permlt many residents to attend. Also, he feels that the CIty Manager should be
given the authority to have such emergency meetings televised. It Is Important that the
citizens be given the opportunity to view the proceedings. He understands that the cost
for a two hour telecast Is less than $400.
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9/5/95
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CITY MGA.
(Televising
CC Emerg.
Mtgs. &
Study
Sessions)
YOUNG
(Downtown
2000
Street
Work)
CHANG
(Televising
CC Mtgs.)
37:0247
The City Manager responded that Council policy has been not to televise study sessions
or special meetings due to the cost. If Council policy is to be changed, Council will have
to give direction to staff. Staff will need to have authority in advance, since there is no way
to know very far in advance when emergency or special meetings may occur. Staff does
not have authority to call the cable company in on an "as needed" basis without advance
notice. Mayor Lojeski inquired n there is a lead time with regard to the cable company. The
City Manager commented that Council needs to discuss the definition of meetings. Some
meetings are study sessions held In the conference room, and they can not easily be
televised from that location. Councilmember Ulrich said those meetings to be televised
would be what he calls action meetings, as opposed to study sessions. The matter of
granting staff authority to arrange telecasting of other Council meetings in addition to the
regular meetings is to be placed on the agenda for the next Council meeting.
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CouncUmember Young commented that she Is pleased with the way work is going
downtown. She has received many telephone calls from merchants and landlords in that
area, and she has been able to assure them that the work is progressing. Also she noted
that there are labor strikers carrying placards east of Arcadia In Monrovia. Also, she had
noticed neatly piled fresh gravel and rock In the construction area on Huntington south of
the Lower "Y". She wonders n these are safe and n a guard is present. This material could
be strewn In the street or taken away. The contractor would be in a bind In such Instance.
The City Manager responded staff had anticipated the possibility of such an occurrence.
The Police Department will observe the area as much as possible, and they are prepared
to act n necessary.
Councilmember Chang would like to have all the Council meetings televised, Including study
sessions. Study sesslons are also Important for citizens who wish to participate In the study
of CIty matters; Council should welcome their input. He thinks the City Manager's schedule
of time for meetings is OK Further, he would like the Joint meeting with the School Board
to be held In the City Hall Council Chamber, and to be televised.
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(Econ.Develop. Councilmember Chang commented that on August 16 - 17 he attended an Economic
Mtg. - Long Development Conference In Long Beach. On August t 7 he visited downtown Long Beach
Beach) which has been very successfully revitalized. He met Pat Hurst. Principal of the Economic
Development System. She has been successful In getting merchants to come to downtown
Long Beach. Councilmember Chang said It would be advisable for the City Manager to
contact Ms. Hurst and borrow from her Long Beach experience.
Councilmember Chang also commented that on September 1 he attended a breakfast
meeting sponsored by the San Gabriel Valley Commerce end Cities Consortium. U. S.
Senator Barbara Boxer was present and gave a speech. He was Impressed that a U. S.
Senator would come to communities and talk to local elected officials and commerce
leaders and explain happenings In Washington D. C. and exchange Information with local
political and business leaders.
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CounclImember Chang received a checIc for $1,000 from Sun Rlder International
,
PharmaCeI.,rlcal Company, Dr. D. F. Chen, Director, made out to the CIty of Arcadia Police
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Department CrIme Preventioil Program. Councilmember Chang presented the check to the
CIty Manager. On behalf of/the CIty Councl he thanked Dr. Chen for his generosity and
care about the CIty although he lives In Palos Verdes. Councilmember Chang requested
that a certificate and letter of appreciation be prepared for presentation to Dr. Chen.
(SGV
Commerce &
Cities
Consortium
Sen. Boxer)
03<0. GO (Sun Rlder
,'Jj 1_ Internal.
Pharm.Co.
Contribu-
tion)
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KUHN
(Eagle Scout
Court of
Honor)
(Superv.
Antonovich
MTA Bd.Dir.
Change)
(Scavenger
Hot Une)
LOJESKI
(Downtown
Street
Work)
rFor Sale"
Autos -
Htg.Dr.)
6.
37:0248
Mayor Pro tem Kuhn represented Mayor Lojeskl on Saturday at a Court of Honor to
recognize three young men for their accomplishments In receiving their Eagle Scout awards
- Sing Rae Ching, Chad Monroe Upham and Christopher Daniel Eddy. We are all very
proud of them.
Mayor Pro tem Kuhn received a letter from County Supervisor Mike Antonovich with regard
to the MTA, proposing a change in legislation to improve the composition of the MTA Board
of Directors to ensure better representation of the County's eighty-eight cities and vast
unincorporated communities In developing a comprehensive transit program. He is
recommending representation by five County Supervisors, the Mayor of Los Angeles, one
Los Angeles City CouncUmember, and four City Councilmembers representing this County's
other eighty-seven cities. She is in concurrence with this recommendation. Supervisor
Antonovlch has written to Governor Wilson In this regard, and requests support from the
cities. CouncUmembers agreed that this matter be placed on the agenda for the next
councU meeting.
Mayor Pro tem Kuhn agreed that the scavenger hot line is very much needed.
Mayor Lojeskl agreed with Councilmember Young that the Downtown 2000 work is
progressing quickly, and he is Impressed with the new contractor quickly getting up to
speed with the problem on Huntington Drive. CouncU saw the urgency of the situation, and
took immediate action to get the project back on line.
Mayor Lojeskl noticed that the "used car lor on the corner of Sunset and Huntington Drive
seems to be back in operation. He would like to be able to get the owners' telephone
numbers. The City now has authority to have the Pollee Department tow away "for sale"
autos parked on that lot.
CITY COUNCIL ADJOURNED IN ORDER TO Ac:r AS THE
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
ROLL CALL PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
ea.
MINUTE
APPROVAL
(Aug. 15,1995)
(APPROVED)
6b.
MINUTE
APPROVAL
(Aug.22,1995)
(APPROVED)
On MOTION by Agency Member Ulrich, seconded by Agency Member Chang and CARRIED
on roll call vote as follows the minutes of the August 15, 1995 regular meeting were
APPROVED.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, and Young
None
None
Chairman Lo/askl (He was not present at that meeting.)
On MOTION by Member Kuhn, seconded by Member Young and CARRIED on roll call vote
as follows the minutes of the August 22, 1995 special meeting were APPROVED.
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ADJOURN-
MENT
7.
7a.
MINUTES
APPROVAl
(Aug.l5,1995)
(Aug.22,1995)
(APPROVED)
7b.
Oq,jO~ 7JCONTRACT
AWARD
(1995-96
Slurry
Seal Proj.-
Job No.602)
37:0249
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Agency Members Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
None
Agency Member Chang (He was not present at that meeting.)
The meeting ADJOURNED to 8:00 a. m., September 15. 1995 at the Community Center.
CITY COUNCil RECONVENED
CONSENT ITEMS
APPROVED the minutes of the August 15. 1995 regular meeting and the August 22, 1995
special meeting.
Mayor lojeskl abstained from voting on the August 15, 1995 minutes since he was not
present; CouncUmember Chang abstained from voting on the August 22, 1995 minutes since
he was not present.
AWARDED contract In the amount of $214,836.52 to Roy Allan Slurry Seal, Inc. for
construction of the 1995/96 Slurry Seal Project - Job No. 602; WAIVED any Informal~les In
the bid or blddlng process; and AUTHORIZED the City Manager and City Oerk to execute
a contract In a form approved by the City Marney.
7c.
POUCE CHIEF POSTPONED the proposed visit by the Arcadia Pollee Department to Taiwan Indefln~ely.
VISIT TO
TAIWAN -
POSTPONED
INDEFINITELY
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7d.
713.
7f.
ESTAB.
o 'J .2 0- 16 CLASS'NS
(Print Servo
Off.;Trans.
Serv.Off.;
Risk Control
Off.)
Considered separately (see below)
Considered separately (see below)
ESTABUSHED classifications of Printing ServIces Offlcer (Class #0906); Transportation
Services Ofllcer (Class #0212); and Risk Control Offlcer (Oass #0214).
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7g. 0':110 -'0
RESOLUTION ADOPTED Resolution No. 5878: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
NO. 5878 OF ARCADIA, CAUFORNIA, ESTABUSHING COMPENSATION AND RELATED BENEFITS
(ADOPTED) FOR AFSCME LOCAL 2264 REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 1995-96" Said
M.O.U. resolution ratifies the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and AFSCME Local
(RATIFIED) 2264, September 5, 1995 to June 30, 1996.
7h. (J.:J,u -/~,,-
RESOLUTION ADOPTED Resolution No. 5879: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
NO. 5879 OF ARCADIA, CAUFORNJA, FIXING THE AMOUNT OF REVENUE REQUIRED TO BE
(ADOPTED) RAISED FROM PROPERTY TAXES NECESSARY FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 1995-96 TO PAY
THE AUTHORIZED MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION COSTS OF THE CITY UGHTING &
PARKING DISTRICTS".
7d. c) 7 '/11
CONTRACT
AWARD
(Newcastle
Handball Ct.
Earthquake
Damage
Repair Pro;.
Job No.599)
(APPROVED)
THE ABOVE CONSENT ITEMS 7a. 7b, 7c, 71, 7g, and 7h WERE APPROVED ON MOTION
BY COUNClLMEMBER YOUNG, SECONDED BY COUNClLMEMBER ULRICH AND CARRIED
ON ROLL CALL VOTE AS FOLLOWS:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
CouncDmembers Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
None
111
Consideration of recommendation to award the contract for $55,492.60 to Goss Construction
Co., Inc. for the Newcastle Park handball court earthquake damage repair project - Job No.
599. Mayor Lojeskl noted that the entire cosl of this repair project Is to be reimbursed with
disaster funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In response to
a question from Mayor Lojeskl, stall responded that the repair project should be completed
by the end of October. Mayor Lojeskl suggested perhaps some publicity could accompany
the completion of this project, since the restoration of the Newcasde Park handball courts
Is Important to a number of the residents.
It was MOVED by Mayor Lojeskl, seconded by CouncDmember Young and CARRIED on rail
call vote as fallows to AWARD a contract In the amount of $55,492.60 to Goss Construction
Co., Inc. for the Newcastle Handball Court Earthquake Damage Repair Project - Job No.
599: WAIVE any lnformal~les In the bid or bidding process: and AUTHORIZE the City
Manager and City Clerk to execute a contract In the form approved by the City Attorney.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
CouncDrnembars Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and Lojeskl
None
None
7e. os.o - c(,tJ
ACCEPTED ConsIderatfon of a grant from the H. N. and Frances C. Berger FOundation to renovate the
GRANT Bonita Park Youth hut. Mayor Lojeskl commented that he Is delighted to see an entity such
(H.N. & as the H. N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation come to the front and renovate these
Frances C. projects. In 1962 the Arcadia KIwanis Club originally constructed the youth hut at Bonita
Berger Park. It has gone through many uses by the School Dlstrlct and later, after the Bonita Park
Foundation) school was closed, ~ was used by the CIty to store field play equipment, etc. He suggested
that a "thank yOl/ letter to the H. N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation be created and
slgned by each member of the City CouncJ. The Berger Foundation has come to bat for
many, many entllles In the community. They are now Involved In the Ubrary Foundation
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9/5/95
8.
Sa.
1995 CITZ.
SATIS-
FACTION
SURVEY RPT.
(RECEIVED
& FILED)
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37:0251
efforts for the library. We are fortunate and lucky to have the Berger Foundation in the
community.
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It was MOVED by Councilmember Chang, seconded by Mayor Pro tem Kuhn and CARRIED
on roll call vote as follows to ACCEPT a grant of ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) to the
City of Arcadia from the H. N. and Frances C. Berger Foundation; AUTHORIZE the Director
of Administrative Services to sign an agreement provided by the donor and approved as
to form by the City Attorney: EXPEND the grant funds to renovate the Bonila Park Youth
Hut and provide appropriale expendtture reports, as outlined in the acceptance agreement.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
CouncUmembers Chang, Kuhn, Ulrich, Young and La/eski
None
None
CITY MANAGER
The City Council recendy received staffs report detailing lhe results of a City of Arcadia
Cttlzen Satisfaction Survey. AI. the July 11, 1995 meeting the Council directed staff to place
the Survey on a future agenda for formal considerallon and discussion.
The September 5, 1995 staff report notes City staff Is committed 10 providing the highest
level of service to Arcadia residenls. Regular evaluation of City programs and services to
determine their effectiveness, as well as their Importance to the people who live and work
In Arcadia, Is critical to staffs ability to maintain a superior level of service. Arcadia
residents are, In fact, the .customers. and It Is the duty of City staff to work toward
satisfying the .customers. on both a performance and customer servlce level. Accordingly,
staff prepared a .customer satisfaction. questionnaire deslgned to obtain an unbiased
appraisal of City services to determine current assessment of service and where
Improvement was needed. The results of the survey are one of many Information sources
which can assist the City Council and staff In making future operational decisions.
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The survey was Inserted In the Winter 1994 Issue of Arcadia At A Glance. which Is.
distributed free of charge to all Arcadia postal customers. 1,234 or 5% of Arcadia
households returned the survey. Staff Is confident that the survey provides the opinions of
a fairly significant population of residents who are concerned enough about civic affairs to
take the time to respond to the request for information.
Overall, residents rated Arcadia as an excellent place to live; they are very pleased with the
level and quality of service provided by the City. City employees consistently received
excellent and good ratings. Residents have a strong deslre for very high level of municipal
services. Maintaining a peaceful residential community, whOe at the same dme attracting
high quallly retaJI establishments 10 increase ClIy revenue. 86% of the respondents feel thaI
the ClIy Is an excellent or good place to shop, and residents have a track record of
patronizlng local merchants W the desired seMces or products ani avaUable.
The lack of a local newspaper was apparent In thaI respondents listed Arcadia At A Glance
as their primary source of City news, wtth word-of-mouth as the second source and the
Pasadena Star News as the third. From the comments people Included with their survey,
there are two additional areas that should be noted. 1) There Is a need to better educate
the public on the workings at municipal government, particularly on the economics of
running the City - where the money comes from, how funds are used, etcetera. In
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37:0252
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addition, there was some dissatisfaction with efforts to develop and rehabUitate commercial
areas. This topic was also rated as an area of importance to citizens. Staff noted that,
whUe many would like the City to Improve and Increase development and revitalization
efforts, they also enjoy Arcadia's residential suburban atmosphere and want to keep it that
way.
CouncUmember Ulrich commended City staff on an excellent job of conducting the survey.
He went on to highlight several items. In response to, "Taking all things into consideration,
how do you rate Arcadia as a place to live?", 96% said excellent or good; only 4% said
poor. Employee courtesy - 800 responses; 90% excellent or good; 9% fair; 2% poor.
Employee efficiency, 81 % excellenl and good. Employee knowledge, 81 % excellent and
good. In response to "How satisfied are you with the City services?" Police - 95% very
satisfied or satisfied; only 5% not satisfied. Fire/Paramedic Services - 99% very satisfied
or satisfied; 1% not satisfied. On the other hand. we have a couple of items that are not
as favorably reported by our citizens. 1) Traffic management - 19% not satisfied. That is
stUl a relatively small percentage. 2) Tree trimming - 23% not satisfied. Overall,
CouncUmember Ulrich thought this to be an extremely satisfactory survey from the
standpoint of the community, and from the standpoint of the CouncU.
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CouncUmember Chang commented that, "the citizens of Arcadia need to know the
highlights of the findings of this survey, and I would like to elaborate as follows. As
mentioned, all Arcadia households were surveyed which totalled about 24,900, with only 5%
return. Males retumed more than females. 54% to 46%. The majority of persons who
responded are over 55 years old. I will not repeat again what the Important findings Peter
has just said. I do want 10 repeal that 23% of the people are not satisfied with the tree
trimming. With regard to satisfaction to the City services, 81% are satisfied with the traff1c
management. With the maintenance of City facUities. more than 90% are satisfied. Senior
citizens service, 97% are satisfied. Ubrary service 93% are satisfied. Developing and
rehabUitatlng commercial areas In the City, 44% are not satisfied. The enforcement of City
buDding and safety codes, 25% are not satisfied. Enforcement of City property maintenance
codes, 26% are not satisfied. So this Is compared to the satisfaction of the service of the
Police Department, 95% satisfied; that means only 5% unsatisfied. Only 1 % are unsatisfied
with the Fire service. We are really talking about a relatively larger percentage of the cltizens
surveyed are not satisfied with the above-mentloned services I just said. The process of
obtaining a buDding permit for home Improvements to your residence, 21 % are not satisfied.
The process of obtalnJng a buJldlng permlt for new construction and/or Interior tenant work
In buUdlngs which house businesses, 24% not satisfied. Importance of service to overall
quality of life, 99% think that Police service Is Important to overall quality of life; 99% Fire
and paramedic; 93% traffic management; 97% water service; 94% maintenance of roads.
I think It's lucky that only 76% are thinking that tree trimming Is Important lei'the quality of
life, 92% think library service Is Important 10 quality of life. 91 % enforcement of City buDding
and safety codes. Attending an Arcadia City CouncD meeting 75% say "no" In last twelve
months; 43% say "no" watching a City Council on Channel 20. 47% say "no" In viewing the
community bulletin board.
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"WIth regard 10 the survey which indicates the three thlngs...llke best In IMng In Arcadia.
only 38% think that low crime and safe environment are their likes In Arcadia. 37% think
community atmosphere/llfestyte are good In Arcadia. 36% think that environment In
Arcadia Is nice - they think that Arcadia Is a very beautiful place to live. 31 % think well
malntalned...consIder Arcadia Is a well maintained. clean city. Only 29% think that the
public schools are good In Arcadia. 28% thInk that City services/department/employees
are good. With regard to the opposite side - three things they like the least to live in
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Arcadia. 38% think that environment Is bad. What environment is bad? What bad
environment: traffle, air quality and nolse. 24% think uncontrolled I
buildlng/zonlng/deslgn/development -- what are these examples: large houses, some non-
English signs, over-commercializatIon, poor arcMecture. 20% think that population/people
are the least things they like here: they notice the increase in immigrants. 20% consider
that the City has lack of redevelopment plan. They think that the downtown is running
down. Well, I think with regard to this we are working in the right direction. They think
there Is a lack of a City center. t 8% consider lack of community - what is that: loss of
small town, non-participation of Asians In mainstream activities. t 5% consider City services
department employees are the least they like. Lack of local newspaper; rising costs; Police
Departmentlssues-l guess at that point we were talking aboUl...we were uncertain about
Police Department contract; poor cable television service. 14% think that we have poor
maintenance; 14% think we have poor traffle management - traffic lights too long/too
many/not enough parking restrictions/too many poor drivers on the road. 10% think that
we have too much crime and not safe...we have increasing crime. Increasing gang activity,
10"' 1% think that City government is not good...City management, City CouncU. I want
to 'at. 8% of citizens think City CooncY lacks plan and abUity to focusjlack of
COO'". .unication.
'How citizens obtain information about City events: 80% from Arcadia At A Glance, the City
newsletter; 52% from word-of-mouth; 49% from Pasadena Star-News-I want to congratulate
the Star-News for their popularity with our citizens; 20% from brochures; only 18% from City
CooncU meetings; 16% from Community BulletIn Board; 15% from Siena Madre News; 8%
from Los Anceles Times; 3% from Chinese newspaper. Needs of minorities being met
effectively? 35% say yes. the minorities' needs are met effectively; 10% say no; 55% say
f don't know. WIthin that 10% no response, the question, 'What do you think Is not met1.
Very interesting here. ~ think that Improve education to enable community and children I
to accept all people/better multl-cultural program/better program to learn English - that
Is the way to Improve the needs of minorities. However, 25% have different view - they
said that minorities should cater to the needs of the majority and should not get special
attention. 25% consider to add or improve services - what are they: more bilingual
personnel; improve service and attitude toward mlnorttles; improve communication; Improve
library service. 15% think that to !acUllate community participation; encourage minority
participation In City political and community Ine. 19% have miscellaneous-they think that
all people are equal.
'If you want to trim City service due to budget constraints, what is the answer? 83% think
that they can trim Recreation programs; 66% thInk they can trim Senior Citizen programs;
64%. street sweeping; only 10% think that Police or Fire seMC8S could be trimmed. How
to Increase City revenues. 32% think we can Increase/Improve taxes/flnes/fees; 25% think
we should upgrade and revltalize existing areas; 20% think that we should downsize City
government, reduce waste; 15% think we should encourage buslness.
'What Is distrlcl patronizallon - what distrlcls cItlzens would patronize: West Arcadia. 93%
of cItlzens responded lhat lhey go to the West Arcadia to shop; Santa Anlla Fashion Park
92%; Duarte Road 84%; Downtown 75% - consider that slluatlon In downtown, they stDI
have 75% of cItlzens shopping there.
'Overall service by the City - 92% voted excellent. Best Improve City service - 18% think
that City government could be Improved. 14% thlnk that maintenance could be Improved.
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'I want to mention some selected comments: 'Survey Is good Idea.' "We love IMng in
Arcadia.' 'Minority population should take on its share of community responsibUity.' 'Use
race track and Arboretum for more family entertainment purposes.'
'26% have general comments about City govemment as follows. Be responsive to
Arcadia's changing needs. Coordinate government with citizens to accept changing
demographics. Adapt services; set new goals and follow through. And more...City CouncU
should be prolesslonal and address important issues. Others...consider charging lees for
non-ilssential services. Remove extra lees lor services. Curtail taxes. Well-run City with
good services. 14% think that redevelopment/revitalization could be Improved; progressive
redevelopment; bring In revenue and jobs. Attract better businesses and a variety of
businesses. 11% think traffic management could be Improved. 8% think that our education
system could be Improved, and they think that the recent redistricting should be abolished.
I think I talked a lot. Thank you very much.'
Mayor Lojeskl was not aware that the entire report would be read by CouncUmember
Chang. He had considered this as a time to discuss the Citizen Satisfaction Survey. He
would like to consider the positives; rather than the negatives. As CouncUmember Ulrich
noted, there Is only a small percentage of the population that Is unhappy. We should
embellish upon and buUd upon the positives.
I
Mayor Pro tem Kuhn noted that she saw a different number of responses In each different
area. That affects the percentage rate a great deal. So, In essence, what happens, for
example, with CouncUmember Chang's percentages, the 32% becomes 13%; 20% becomes
8% because the number of responses on each question vary. It Is difficult to take it just as
listed. Staff did an excellent job with the survey, and she thinks that 5% Is a good response
rate. She looks at it very positively. While studying the report, she highlighted areas with
a 15% or higher dissatisfaction. However, when she analyzed II further, she realized one
Is not working with the same figures In each area, which changes the picture drastically.
For example, wtth regard to the 44% not being satisfied with the redevelopment and
rehabilitation 01 commercial areas, that was based on 857 responses; 3n did not answer;
possibly did not care. Also, 86'lb of the responses were from citizens over the age of 40;
58% over the age 01 55, so that Is taken Into consideration. She did not think there were
any surprises, except perhaps for the street repair and maintenance. She thought
everything else was pretty good.
Mayor Lojeskl noted that Councl and staff and City employees try very hard to produce the
best that Is possible to make this a desirable City In which to work and function, ralse our
families, conduct our businesses, etc. 1110% of the population wUI not be happy; a certain
amount 01 ctltlclsm will always be there. Ills Important that CIty staff went to the public to
ask for thelr response. The results should be shared with the citizens In a future Issue 01
the newsletter. The results should also be shared wtth the employees so they will know
haw the cllizens responded. Staff responded that a brief summary of the survey results wUI
appear In the nex! CIty newsletter. Also the SUNey results have been distributed to each
CIty department, wtth the specific request that they be shown to the employees.
Councilmember Young said she thought the survey to be a great tool, that It Is a step
fOlWllrd and leads the way for us. Mayor Lojeskl agreed and said that circumstances and
Issues change, and In the future, at an appropriate lime perhaps this survey should be done
again.
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98.
CITY
ATTORNEY
OliO _."t,)
'" <:;1"
9b
CITY
ATTORNEY
o I fO-V/}
MSP
LOJESKI
(In Memory
of Kathryn
Anne
Hedlund)
(In Memory
of Lowry
Bradrick
McCaslin)
37:0255
Councllmember Chang said the survey served two purposes. First, to teU us of the good
things we have and should be proud to have In this City. Second, to tell us about our I
problems and this should be taken seriously, even though only a small number of the
citizens responded to the survey.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Attorney stated that the City Council will enter a CLOSED SESSION following this
evening's meeting, pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 for conference with labor
negotiators Dan Cassidy and/or Gary Rogers, regarding the Arcadia Firefighters'
Association, Teamsters and Management Employees; and,
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b) to discuss with City legal counsel pending
(anticipated) litigation Involving a situation of significant exposure to litigation based on
threats made by the President of Sully-Miller Company and their legal counsel at a meeting
with City officials on August 28, 1995 pertaining to City action to address the emergency
situation described by City Council Resolution san with reference to the Arcadia Downtown
2000 Streetscape Project.
Mayor Lojeskl adjourned the meeting In memory of two IndMduals who were terrlflc
contributors to the City of Arcadia, and what Arcadia Is all about. "The first Is Kathryn Anne
Hedlund. Mrs. Hedlund passed away on August 21, 1995 at her home. She was a
member of the HUI Avenue Grace Lutheran Church, and the Arcadia Assista~ League.
Kathryn Is survived by her husband, Harold of Arcadia, a long-standing Planning
Commissioner In the City of Arcadia; four children; and four grandchUdren. Memorial
services were held at the HUI Avenue Grace Lutheran Church. Internment was private. In
lieu of flowers, donations can be made In her name to the Kenneth Norris Cancer Hospital,
1420 San Pablo Street, PVMD Room C-l00, Los Angeles, CA 90033. Mrs. Hedlund wUI be
missed In this community, for all that she has contributed; and all of her famUy will continue
to contribute In the community of Arcadia.'
I
"The second IndMdual this evening that I would like to adjoum in memory of is Lowry
Bradrlck McCaslin. I had the pleasure when I first went on the City CouncU of meeting Mr.
McCaslin. Mr. McCaslin was the owner of the Anoakla property, as the residents of the City
of Arcadia know and realize. He was a former All-American football player at USC, and a
long-llme San Gabriel Valley real estate developer. He passed away August 6, 1995. At
the time of his death, Mr. McCaslin was eighty-elght years of age. He had been III for
several months, and collapsed from respiratory and heart failure at his UI Canada-Alntridge
home. He had recenUy celebrated his fifty-tifth wedding anniversary with his wife, Polly.
McCaslin was a native of Whittier, where he was a high school athletic star. He entered
use In 1925 on a basketball schofarshlp, but soon found himself playing tlght-end
on Coach Howard Jones' Championship football team, which was referred to by the
opponents of USC at the time as the "Thundering Herd'. Lowry was named an All-American
In 1928, and was All-Pacitlc Coast In 1929. While at USC, McCaslin was a member of the
Sigma Chi Fraternity and roomed with the Infamous John Wayne, who remained a long-time
friend throughout his lite. He served as a lieutenant In the Navy during World War II, but
he was most proud of his later successes which were his famUy and his business. His
General Manager of McCaslin Properties, David Pinkerton quoted, 'He had an uncanny
ability to pick land that was in the way of Mure growth'. The Arcadia Company owns the
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ADJOURN-
MENT
(Sept. 15, 1995
8:00 a.m.)
ATTEST:
37:0256
twenty acre Arcadia site 01 the now defunct Anoakia School, and a 73 acre business -
Industrial park In Monterey Park. He acquired the Anoakia Estate. formerly the home 01
Anila Baldwin, daughter of the Valley pioneer, Lucky Baldwin, after a long friendship with
her and the famUy. I think I recall a story that Lowry's father actually worked at the home
and on the Lucky Baldwin Ranch. This was the relallonship that was there with the Baldwin
famUy. McCaslin brought the Monterey Park land in 1958 when it was really oul in the boon
docks. There were just dirt roads, Pinkerton said, now it has three freeways running by it.
Truly a man of vision. Initially. the Monterey Park site was a sand and gravel quarry which
McCaslin mined for years in paving many 01 the SOulhern CaJnornia freeways, and In 1970
he broke ground on McCaslin Park which, at one mUlion square feet of office and industrial
space, was the filleenth largest such park In Soulhem CaJnomia. He was a real innovator
and way ahead 01 his time in land use planning. McCaslin also paid particular attention to
landscaping and other detaUs that would ensure that the Industrial park would be beaulnul
as well as functional. He used wider streets and set-backs. He loved picking Interesting
and unusual trees and shrubs, and was always environmentally concerned and way ahead
01 his time. Lowry McCaslin Is survived by his wne, Polly; seven chUdren; ten
grandchildren; and a sister, Rulh England. In lieu 01 flowers, the famUy Is asking that
donations go to the USC Kenneth Norris Cancer Hospital and Research Institule. Services
were private for the family and close friends, and they were held later in the week, following
his death. So I would like to adjourn tonight's meeting appropriately to September 15,1995
at 8:00 a. m. In the Community Center, In memory 01 both Kathryn Anne Hedlund and Lowry
Bradrlck McCaslin.'
AI 8:30 p. m. the City CouncU ENTERED a CLOSED SESSION. RECONVENED and
ADJOURNED at 10:02 p.m. to 8:00 a. m., Friday, September 15. 1995 at the Arcadia
Community Center for an Adjoumed Regular Meeting (Study Session) to condUCIIhe
business of the City CouncU and the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency and any Oosed
Session necessary to discuss personnel. litigation matters and evaluation 01 properties.
of the City of Arcadia
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