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HomeMy WebLinkAboutOCTOBER 11,1994 I I (;')/10 - ','(J If) lit! II 36:0343 C(_ CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS ARE TAPE RECORDED AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK ROLL CALL CITY ATTNY (Combr Kuhn - FPPC Legal Opinion) /f) 1./0 . ",: ' Nt,P CHANG (Televise Study Sess.) { . J -,,,.'111 ^~;:l LOJESKI (Televise Study Sess.) (' I ." f' '" .1 LOJESKI (Conflict of Interest) ?J"1f.J ..t.*,u ,.1' r-" CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA and the ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING (STUDY SESSION) OCTOBER 11, 1994 The Arcadia City Council and Redevelopment Agency met in an Adjourned Regular Meeting (Study Session) on Tuesday, October 11, 1994 at 5:30 p. m. in the City Council Chambers. PRESENT: ABSENT: Council/Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Lojeski and Young Council/Agency Member Margett (arrived at 5:37 p.m.) It was MOVED by Council/Agency Member Chang, seconded by Council/Agency Member Lojeski and CARRIED to EXCUSE the absence of Council/Agency Member Margett. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS The City Attorney announced that, in comparing a recent legal opinion, rendered by the Fair Political Practices Commission, with the agenda items to be considered at this meeting, Councilmember Kuhn may only participate in discussion and voting of certain specific items. The City Attorney distributed a list to Council, earlier given to Counci1member Kuhn, of those items in which she may participate. Councilmember Kuhn has an ownership in an office building in the Redevelopment Proj ect Area which will be under discussion this evening. QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL REGARDING CLARIFICATION OF AGENDA ITEMS None Vincent Havdel, Area Manager, Southern California Edison Company, stated, in part, that the Edison Company is going through many changes similar to changes occurring in other businesses. The Edison Company is in process of downsizing ... He feels that it is important that Edison work very closely with the City so that they may address all City service needs. Edison will continue to provide good service. MATTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS Mayor Pro tern Chang commented that there are a lot of issues to be discussed tonight at this open meeting ... television should have been arranged. The "Mayor explained that only the main Council meetings are televised. Councilmember Lojeski concurred with Mayor Pro tem Chang, and said in part, that although tonight's meeting is a study session th~ Council lIIa) &l."'vc ~l.~cc;:ion tc st:~~f .::t this c:JtJc vi a meeting. Council should consid~r the .items on the agenda and cab1ecast meetings such as this when there are important items to be considered. In reply to a question from Councilmemb!!E Lojeski, the City Attorney stated-in-van', -.that-the-cri:teri:a-considered when. disqualifying a Councilmember from - 'participating in a redevelopment project item is own~F'!..hip in..a business or land within a specific distance of the project__ For example, if ~~"!"1- ----= 10/11/94 '",,,' ,,-:" - . " LOJESKI (210 FWY Soundwalls) (Sidewalk Dining) (City Treas. Parker) (Anoakia - 701 W. Foothill B1.) (ic;/, 0-, NsP 1. PURPOSE OF STDY.SESS.& OVERVIEW OF AB 1290) j,S: 03".:4- within 300 feet of a project and a determination can be made that participation in that item would have absolutely no economic effect on that particular Agency Member's interest "Jhatsoever, The City Attorney further explained other issues '.hich might preclude participation, basically, disqualification is based on distance and appraisal information. Councilmember Lojeski reported that persons living within the Upper Rancho Homeowners Association have sent letters to himself and other Councilmembers regarding installation of soundwalls along the 210 Freeway in their area. Staff '.i11 direct an answer to the president of the Association requesting that evidence be provided to the City that the Association Board endorsed the proposal for soundwalls. I In reference to restaurant sidewalk dining, staff reported that this issue will be placed on a November Council meeting agenda for an update from staff. At that time Council can choose whether.or not to amend the Arcadia Municipal Code accordingly to make sidwa1k dining allowable. Councilmember Lojeski commended City Treasurer Jerry Parker for setting in place the Santa Anita Fashion Park public parking lot escrow matter, thus earning quite a sum for the City. Council expressed their appreciation to the City Treasurer also. Councilmember Lojeski inquired about the status of the Anoakia property as far as its possible designation as a state or federal historic preservation site. The City Manager advised that staff did a quick analysis of the site and determined there could be some historical artifacts on the property. however, to request state and national historical designation would require additional staff work, federal designation in particular, since that process is very time consuming. It was noted that the owners of Anoakia have not expressed any interest in seeking this designation. Councilmember Lojeski suggested that a staff memorandum on this matter be brought back to Council for review of the background information of the site at, perhaps, a study session. The Anita Baldwin mansion has historical significance to the community. Staff will agendize the Anoakia report to which Councilmember Loj eski referred, for a November Council meeting. AT 5:55 P. M. THE MAYOR CALLED A BRIEF RECESS TO ALLOW THE COUNCIL/AGENCY TO MOVE FROM THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS TO THE CONFERENCE ROOM FOR REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT REPORTS AND DISPLAYS. AT 5: 59 P'.M. THE STUDY SESSION RECONVENED CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The City Manager/Executive Director stated, in part, that this study session is a result of a previous meeting in July, 1994. in an attempt to focus the City's revitalization program, principally in the downtown area. In July the Agency received a binder of information on many projects for a definitive discussion of individual projects page by page. At that time it was difficult to go through twenty plus projects and the Agency asked staff to try and focus on certain specific important projects. The dis~~ssion this ~dte, OctoL~~ 11, was principally on very specific projects-that may be achievable based upon the City's income and what is happening out in the business market. In reference to the downtown area along Huntington Drive, the City Manager/Executive Director commented that the Agency needs to be sure that they think about the entire City. At the time Council begins the 'mid-year' bUdget'review',- December or January,' staff will provide an update on the individual commercial core areas throughout the City. There is a need to adopt a Citywide strategy for economic development. A lot of emphasis has been put on the downtown area,' Hunt~ngton Drive from Santa Anita to I o --2- 10/11/94 . I I r' ',I). I" " 36:0345 Se~ond Avenue, and on First Avenue, but the Agency should also fo~us on the other commercial cores which represent north Ar~adia. the race track, the mall and other commercial areas in the City. The City Manager/Executive Director reported that Ar~adia is exceeding in sales in comparison to other cities and the Agency should make sure that that position is maintained, however, .Arcadia is extreme ly vulnerable to changes in 5 tate law, su~h as, lease rates, and sales tax distribution. Specifically, in regard to the downtown area along Huntington Drive, the City Manager/Executive Director commented that the goal of this meeting is to focus on some very specific projects and for staff to receive the Agency's direction on individual sites as to the uses the Agency may want or not want, and conclude this meeting with a discussion of the downtown revitalization program... the street and other programs, along with the budget to achieve all of these goals. At this time, the City Manager/Executive Director noted, there are more projects than money ... and creativity is needed to get the projects ac~omplished at the same time. OSlc'. .' .., I The City Manager/Executive Director reviewed the effect of Assembly Bill 1290, which was adopted and became effective in January, 1994. This bill completely changed the horizon of redevelopment law throughout the state. AB 1290 was the result of what the legislators in Sacramento felt were the prior abuses of redevelopment ... so the law was rewritten. A staff report will be provided to the Agency at the next Agency meeting that will recommend changes to the Agency's debt limit; redevelopment tax increment; a change to the time the plan is in effect; and th~ debt service. All of these items are being changed and reduced down ... this will have an impact on how the Agency plans for the future. The changes must be in place by the end of 1994. In addition, the City Manager/Executive Director commented, much of what the Agency decides this evening must be put together into an implemencation plan for the project area. Th~ StaCe has mandated thac Agencies be more specific on what th~y are doing annually ... what money the Agency is receiving and how it is spent. 2. Requesc for Redevelopment Agency approval and/or direction on ch~ following projects: 2a. SW CORNER SITE Oc;.:;-;; . (' '/'1 Consideration of the staff request for Agency approval to negociate for office, dinner house/rescauranc, retail: and/or mixed uses on the Southwest corner site. This 51,000 square fo~t vacant propercy can be combined with the adjacent access road and island which would increase the size to 57,000 square fe~c. Dave Powell of Hayes and Company, the Agency's broker, advises that currently a furniture retailer, an office use and a ~estauranC have expressed primary interesc in this site. Staff estimates $15,000 to $100,000 for miscellaneous administrative costs to acquire the City owned island and access road adjacent to this site if included in the development. Also, a 5% commission would be paid to Hayes & Company out of the land sale pr~ceeds . The Age:1"Y's discussion focused on the uses for the Southwest Corner s"te, specifically, what would the Agency like to see devplnnp~ thpy.p.. Also should the development promote image or economic return or both for the City. Chairperson Young said she would like to see a dinner house/restaurant or a retail development... this would be a wonderful corner for a Pier One store. An office building would be way down on the list. Ag~ncy Memq~r Chang said that a furniture store or a restaurant would be 'fine. Agency Member Margett concluded that if he had to make a choice between physical improvements or development to increase sales tax, 3 10/11/94 36:0346 he would plan for attractiveness of something that will have the effect of bringing in other generators for the taxes. Agency Member Lojeski said he would like to see a quality dinner house/restaurant, professional or medical office building or any type of mixed uses, but NO tire stores or fast food places. He also asked if the Agency is willing to write the land down. Agency Member Kuhn felt that whatever is developed on the site has to fit in with the market flow. A quality dinner house/restaurant would be nice. The site is not good for retail. She does not want a fast food restaurant. Agency Member Margett MOVED that the Agency would like to see an I attractive development on the Southwest Corner site (Huntington and Second Avenue), so that it would be the catalyst to be able to get generation to the downtown area, second by Agency Member Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows: AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Lojeski, Margett and Young None None NOES: ABSTAIN: 2b. NW CORNER SITE (Htg. & 2nd Ave.) z.Jl/ t.. t 1 Consideration of the staff request for Agency approval to negotiate for retail, medium density residential, and/or mixed uses, on the Northwest Corner site. The subject site is a vacant 175,000 square foot (4 acres) area which can be developed with '.,& the aforesaid uses. Other possibilities include development as " (, a soccer/roller hockey sports facility or an ice skating arena. The site has been marketed by Dave Powell, Hayes and Company, for commercial office and restaurant use. Mr. Powell noted that there was developer interest in those uses as well as an eight story office building, senior housing and a hotel. The sites lack of visibility, due to the railroad overpass and berm, has affected its viability, according to Mr. Powell. Staff's cost estimate for the Northwest Corner site is $5,000 for miscellaneous administrative costs, and a 5% commission paid to Hayes and Company out of the land sale proceeds. In the Agency's discussion of development of this site, Agency Member Lojeski felt that this would be a good site for a recreational facility, use of which would increase use of the local hotels, restaurants and retail shops. He would also be interested in a planned unit residential development as opposed to low cost housing on the site. Chairperson Young felt this to be a good site for a soccer/roller hockey sports facility or ice rink. Member Chang said he would prefer medium density residential housing, senior housing or a hotel on the Northwest Corner site. I Member Margett said he would like to see this site developed with affordable housing. Member Lojeski MOVED to AUTHORIZE staff to negotiate for retail, residential use consistent with redevelopment law, or a hotel; au..Vor mixed uses on the Northwest Corner site, inclusive of an ice rink or other recreational facilities, second by Chairperson Young and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows: , 2c. " LIGHT RAIL STATION/ TRANSIT CTR. AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: I~ Members Chang, Lojeski, Margett and Young Agency None Agency Member Kuhn Consideration of staff's reque~t for the Agency to designate the area around Front Street, St. Joseph, .Firs t Avenue and Santa 4 10/11/94 I I 2d. ASH 2l0/WEST (Costco) :J (;, ?1o - ,) I 36,0347 Clara Street, as the potential site for a future Light Rail Station/Transit Center and provide direction to staff regarding the possible acquisition of the Cate11us and Metropolitan Transit Authority properties. The area between the aforesaid streets was the location of the former Arcadia train station. Michael Fteedman, the Agency's previous downtown revitalization consultant, proposed moving the station site to the Huntington Drive/Second Avenue area, either at Bonita Park and school or the Northwest Corner site. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) environmental impact report has assessed all three locations. Staff prefers the Front Street/First Avenue/ St. Joseph site because of its central location, its street network, availability, practicality, and the fact that the Agency and City own two of the three properties, also its lower cost. The City can attempt to lobby the MTA or use MTA funds to acquire the 30,610 square foot Catellus property east of the railroad tracks (adjacent to the Agency owned property), and donate MTA land along Front Street west of the tracks to the city. If this is not feasible, Proposition A and C funds could be used to acquire the Catellus owned parcel and to design and construct a Light Rail Station/Transit Center. A discussion ensued and Agency Member Margett felt that the light rail station would better serve customers of the potential recreational facility at the NW Corner site if the station were located at the SE Corner of Huntington and Second Avenue, or placed at the NW Corner if a recreational center is not located there. Chairperson Young prefers the original train station site on Front Street which is centrally located. Further, she felt that a station located at the Southeast Corner of Huntington Drive and Second Avenue, the Pony League baseball field, would create turmoil in the city. Member Lojeski believes the light rail station should be located on the former site on Front Street which would better serve the race track ... whose customers would use the train possibly more than other persons. Member Chang concurs with staff's recommendation that the station should be located on the former station site and MOVED to designate the area around Front Street, St. Joseph, First Avenue and Santa Clara as the potential site for a future Light Rail Station/Transit Center; and DIRECT staff regarding the possible acquisition of the Catellus and MTA properties; also DIRECT that staff provide the Agency with figures of the costs of locating the station on the NW or SE Corner of Huntington Drive and Second Avenue; second by Chairperson Young and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: Agency Members Chang, Lojeski, Margett and Young None Agency Member Kuhn The Agency previously investigated the possibility of acqulrlng the parcels in the triangle north of Santa Clara Street, east of Second Avenue and south of the 210 Foothill Freeway for a 144,000 square foot Costco retail warehouse. The City/Agency would have to relocate the St. Joseph Water Facility to either Newcastle Park or Eisenhower Park, obtain permission of the Army Corps of Engineers and the L. A. County Department of Public Works to build over the Santa Anita Wash, relocate a county riding and hiking trail and relocate major Edison service lines. Based upon an economic analysis by Jim Williams, the Agency's redevelopment consultant, the project will not yield an adequate return for the investment due in part to the $9-10 million cost of relocating the water tanks. Also, staff has not been 5 10/11/94 2e. FIFTH AVE. JOINT PROJ. (Arcadia/ Monrovia) 0(" IrO.f)>{ 2f. FOULGER FORD SITE (Rtg, /Morlan Pi. /Santa Clara) 06~O _ 0.'\ 36:0348 successful in obtaining Corps of Engineers support for constructing a building ,over the wash. Agency Member Kuhn felt that it was time to let the 2l0/Costco project die ... it has been dead a long time. Member Margett concurred., Member Loj eski agreed that the Agency should not proceed any further with the project, however, if the small water tank on this site under discussion has to be relocated or rebuilt on another site, that area could then be used for a parking lot for a nearby establishment. Also, the door should not be closed to Costco if Costco should be interested in constructing a vertical building on another site in the City. It was MOVED by Agency Member Lojeski, seconded by Member Kuhn I and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to formally DISCONTINUE consideration of the Santa Clara/Second Avenue/2l0 Freeway/Wash site for a Price/Costco project as co~figured to this point. AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Loj eski, Margett and Young None None NOES: ABSTAIN: Consideration of staff's request to continue discussion with Monrovia and The Festival Group for a joint retail development on both sides of Fifth Avenue, between the 210 Freeway, Huntington Drive and the Santa Anita Wash. Agency staff, City of Monrovia staff, World Vision and their broker, the Royce Company, have intensively marketed to the development community a 14.5 acre site on both sides of Fifth Avenue. The group conducted qualifying interviews with five interested developers and were prepared to recommend three companies to respective redevelopment agencies for an opportunity to submit a full proposal. Recently staff was advised that The Festival Group (TFG) , a national firm, had agreed to acquire the World Vision property east of Fifth Avenue adjacent to the 210 Freeway. Monrovia staff and Arcadia staff, based upon comments from several developers, believe there is a strong market for 10,000 - 50,000 square foot retail stores such as Comp USA, Sportmart or Circuit City. TFG concurs and is willing to work with both agencies on a master plan for a j oint development. The estimated cost to the City of Arcadia is $3,250,000 $7,000,000 depending on the extent of Agency participation in assembling the land. In reply to Member Lojeski, staff reported the Agency's cost to-date on this project is $6,000 for brochures plus staff time. Monrovia and World Vision each put in $6,000 for the brochures also. It was MOVED by Agency Chairperson Young, seconded by Member I Chang and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to AUTHORIZE staff to CONTINUE discussions with Monrovia for a joint development on each side of Fifth Avenue, between the 210 Freeway, Huntington Drive and the Santa Anita Wash; and DIRECT staff to keep the Agency apprised of the progress of said discussions with Monrovia. AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Lojeski, Margett and Young None None NOES: ABSTAIN: Consideration of staff's request for authorization to prepare an Exclusive Right to Negotiate (ERN) to develop a multi screen theater, restaurants, and parking lot on th~.Foulger Ford site. The Agency has received a proposal from Vic Georgino, who 6 10/11/94 I I 2g. SOCCER/ROLLER HOCKEY FAC. " ICE RINK FAC. OG <-10 _ .::>0 36:0349 developed and built the AMC theater complex in downtown Burbank. Mr. Georgino has requested an Exclusive Right to Negotiate (ERN) with' the Agency on said Foulger Ford site for a 40,000 square foot building, 4,500 seat, 20 screen theater, with two (2) restaurants and a parking structure for 1,000 cars. He has been in contact with the owner, but to-date has been unsuccessful in negotiating a purchase price or a ground lease. Staff estimates cost to the Agency of $50,000 - $3,000,000 depending on the extent of Agency participation in the development. Following a brief discussion it was MOVED by Agency Member Lojeski, second by Chairperson Young and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to AUTHORIZE staff to prepare an Exclusive Right to Negotiate (ERN) to develop a multi-screen theater, restaurants and parking on the Foulger Ford site (Huntington Drive, Morlan Place and Santa Clara Street) if the Foulger Ford site is an appropriate site for said development. AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Lojeski, Margett and Young None None NOES: ABSTAIN: Consideration of staff request for Agency direction on a possible soccer and roller sports facility and/or an ice rink in the proj ect area or City. The Recreation Commission has been considering a proposal from Arena Soccer Parks International/Pacific Hockey Centers (ASPI/PHC) to joint venture a sports facility in Arcadia. ASPI/PHC propose to use available land provided at no cost on which the Agency would construct a large B5 x 200 foot soccer court, a 50 x 85 foot mini soccer court, an 80 x 180 foot roller hockey court, concession shop, and office, on two (2) acres for approximately $900,000, not including parking. The Agency would receive 5% of all gross revenues up to $360,000 ($18,000) and 20% above $360,000. ASPI/PHC estimate that the Agency would receive in excess of $1 million over the 10 year life of the lease (the facility would therefore have to gross $770,000). ASPI/PHC would manage and insure the facility. The Agency would own the improvements at the end of the lease. Staff believe such a facility is designed for an existing park or school district field since the land and parking are already available. With regard to an Ice Rink facility, a development group has received governmental entitlement from Monrovia to construct a 74,000 square foot, 2,500 seat ice skating facility on the mobile home park on South Fifth Avenue in Monrovia, abutting the former AT&SF railroad tracks. The facility plans included two large ice rinks, with arena seating around one, a concession shop, tog shop, and parking on 5.8 acres. The developer was unable to agree with the land owner on a purchase price and has taken his plans to San Dimas. Possibly this concept could come to an Arcadia location, e. g., an expanded Northwest Corner site, Fifth Avenue (Arcadia side), or other City site. The issue for the City and Agency is whether the city wants such a facility, and if so, at what possible location. Following discussion, it was MOVED by Agency Chairperson Young, second by Member Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to DIREC~ staff to pursue the potential location of a soccer and roller hockey facility and a possible ice skating facility in the project area or City-wide. AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn, Lojeski, Margett and Young None None NOES: ABSTAIN: AT 7:48 P.M. MAYOR YOUNG CALLED A BRIEF RECESS 7 10/11/94 3. DOWNTOWN 2000 CONCEPT PLAN & PROG, V6 ~o_ O-P13 3a. STREETSCAPE (Htg. Dr. - Santa Clara to Fifth & First Ave. - Wheeler to Calif. ) e;,,!: r;O. ()~~,." 36:0350 THE STUDY SESSION RECONVENED AT 8:00 P. M. Consideration of the Downtown 2000 concept plan and programs. The proposed plan and program draws extensively from the last eighteen months of work by Freedman, Tung and Bottomley (FTB) , ASL Consulting Engineers, and City/Agency staff. The concept plan is based on at least six (6) community meetings, a public hearing and several other Council/Agency study sessions or meetings. The proposed final streetscape plans, presented this date, October 11, were based upon Agency direction at its July 19 meeting. The plans prepared by Larry Moss and Associates merge the Freedman Plan B and staff Plan C. The October II, 1994 staff I report, the plan and presentation were intended to finalize all streetscape issues and obtain the Agency's authorization to proceed. When combined with some of the Agency and City projects considered earlier in this meeting, e. g., the Foulger theater project, Southwest Corner site, Light Rail Station, the plan and program constitute a comprehensive effort to revitalize the downtown area (Huntington Drive and First Avenue) by the year 2000. The Agency Executive Director presented and explained the streetscape renderings prepared by Moss and Associates for downtown Huntington Drive and First Avenue, pointing out the major differences between the Freedman concept plans and the Moss "hybrid" plans. The new concept plans encompass a larger area than the original plan, however, several amenities proposed by Mr. Freedman were not included in the Moss plan, e. g., custom designed and constructed median lights, pedestrian lights, traffic signals, kiosks, fences, and new sidewalks. The Moss plans are simpler and the amenities taken from vender catalogues. Other changes were; the parking spaces will remain on Huntington Drive; sidewalks will not be widened, but will be improved with special landscaping and pedestrian lights; no traffic signals constructed at the crosswalks between Santa Anita and Second Avenue; landscaped medians will be constructed between Santa Clara and Santa Anita, and Second Avenue and Fifth; no fences along Huntington Drive; a contemporary theme and style for lighting on First Avenue. The Executive Director noted that certain amenities selected by the Agency originally in the Freedman plan could be added to the new plan at a later date if the Agency wanted to do so. The streetscape project has been divided into three sections, which can be completed at one time or constructed separately. Economies of scale and minimal disruption of merchant, mall and race track traffic suggest that the work be done under one I contract. The streetscape project could also then be better coordinated with two city c~pital improvement projects, parallel water mains ($415,000), and Huntington Drive rehabili tation ($945,000). Mr. Moss estimates costs of Section One at $2,007,000 (Huntington Drive, Santa Anita to Second Avenue, and .ir.st Avenue, Wheeler to California). This would include construction costs, contingency, design and engineering, construction management and inspection. Mr. Moss estimates costs for Section Two at $503,000 (Huntington Drive, Second Avenue to Fifth), and costs for Section Three at $310,000 (Huntington Drive, Santa Clara to Santa Anita). The total for all three sections is then $2,820,000, with an estimated annual maintenance cost of $19,500, not including energy costs. 8 10/11/94 I I 3b. COM'L FACADE REHAB.PROG. (APPROVED) .!l (1.." ~'., UJ:J IJ - 36:0351 Upon approval of the final project concept, and the environmental assessment, plans, specifications, and engineering completed. the project can be formally bid by the Agency/City and construction could begin in late Spring or early Summer of 1995. The project is expected to take eight to twelve months to complete. Considerable discussion ensued while viewing the renderings of the streetscape. Member Margett felt that the width of the sidewalks on the Moss plans was too small the proposed sidewalk does not lend well to strolling or outdoor dining. He prefers wider sidewalks on Huntington Drive. Member Chang suggested removing the proposed medians in the street and widening the sidewalks. Lawrence Moss, Moss and Associates, explained the quality of the street light standards, walls and benches to be used along Huntington Drive; the legal requirement for the tall cobra-head lights which will also be used along with the traditional lighting. The trees and landscape programs were also explained in de tail. Member Lojeski felt that the cobra lights should not be used in the downtown area ... they are very unattractive. He would prefer traditional decorative lighting along Huntington Drive and First Avenue. Also, First Avenue could be the same theme and style as Huntington Drive. Chairperson Young said she does not mind the plan landscaping, pavers, etcetera, on First avenue, however. she not like the contemporary cobra light fixtures. for does Member Lojeski felt the small center divider on Huntington Drive from Second Avenue to Fifth Avenue should be eliminated from the plan, also the proposed divider on Huntington from Santa Clara to Santa Anita. The divider on Huntington at those locations could hurt the businesses and restaurants. Also, he likes the median strips except for those previously mentioned. Member Chang felt that on Huntington Drive between Second Avenue and Fifth and Santa Clara to Santa Anita he would like to keep these medians with an opening for pedestrians to cross the street. Also, he would not like cobra lights on First Avenue. There was consensus that the Agency preferred more traditional decorative light standards as opposed to contemporary. The City Manager/Executive Director said staff will cost out the traditional lighting and modify the median islands. It was MOVED by Agency Member Lojeski, seconded by Chairperson Young and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to APPROVE the Downtown 2000 Streetscape Project, with modifications to the medians in the center of Huntington Drive, changing the cobra- head lights, and use of the Huntington Drive concept on First Avenue; AUTHORIZE staff to proceed with the environmental assessment, plans, specifications, and engineering. AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: Agency Member Chang, Lojeski and Young Agency Member Margett (for reasons so stated) Agency Member Kuhn City staff prepared a four-part commercial rehabilitation program in 1992. This program was derived from ongoing programs in other cities. The program concepts were reviewed with merchant.s and owners in the downtown area, as well as several architects. Their suggestions were incorporated in the final concept. Formal Agency authorization and implementation was held up because of the proposed downtown revi talization effort then under discussion. All commercial businesses in the target area except 9 iO/ll/94 3c. BUSINESS ATTRACTION INCENTIVE PROGRAM (APPROVED) ()(, ,"<i . (' He:: 3d. ACCESSWAYS/ SOUTHS IDE HTG, PK'NG PROG. (APPROVED) 061:rO.()2I.S 3e, DOWNTOWN MARKETING PROGRAM (APPROVED) "J'" ' . c. '" ,I t> _ (1, ;, , , 3f. DIRECTIONAL SIGNAGE PROGRAM (APPROVED) 0(, if " - t).:J 6, 3g. PRIVATE COOPERATIVE PK'NG PROG. (APPROVED) OG f(l ~ (1-'6 3h. LAND USE/ ZONING/DEV. CRITERIA (APPROVED) \ /< ~, ,) , - . ~.- .. -," " 36:0352 banks, savings ana loans, churches, and gas stations are eligible. There are our RehClbilitation Program components; 1 Architectural design services at a recommended budget of $21,000; 2 - Sign ,eplacement rebate at a recommended budget of $45,000; 3- Facade improvement rebate at a recommended budget of $50,000; and 4 - General property improvement rebate at a recommended budget of $20,000. The October 11, 1994 staff report sets forth in detail the four components of the Commercial Facade Rehabilitation Program. Mundie and Associates, the economic sub-consultant to Freedman, Tung and Bottomley (FTB) , recommended that certain uses be actively solicited to come to the downtown, e. g., convenience retail, specialty retail and restaurants. To accomplish this will require Agency financial assistance. It may also involve the voluntary relocation of one or two downtown merchants to other locations. Staff recommends a total budget of $130,000. I There are no public accessways near the middle of the block on Huntington Drive between Santa Anita and First Avenue. FTB pointed out that pedestrian access to the parking lots off either alley is critical to the ultimate success of downtown revitalization. This program would permit acquisition of two public easements; one to the east of the Steerburger and one through the Arcade building. The program includes the possible demolition and reconstruction of the parking lot behind the Arcade building in return for dedicated public parking and maintenance paid for by the private owner. Alternatively, it contemplates the acquisition of the properties, relocation of the bU$inesses, demolition of the building, construction of some additional parking off the alley with a public plaza connecting to Huntington .Drive. A portion of the site could be leased. Staff ~ecommends a budget of $100,000 - $900,000. In order to ensure success, a sustained quality advertising campaign to inform the public about the downtown is needed. This would take the form of newspaper ads, flyers, mailers, brochures, banners, notices, and other marketing tools. Design' of the logo, colors, theme, layout, would be provided by a professional firm. Staff ~ecommends a budget of $20,000. Using an Agency approved theme, colors, and logo, new directional signs would be placed in and around the downtown to show parking locations, traffic patterns, amenities, etcetera. The recommended budget is $15,000. FTB, based upon downtown parking surveys by their firm, and by The Planning Corporation, concluded there was ample parking available in the downtown area as long as the private owner permitted such use by the public. This program is intended to pay for the costs to improve and/or reconstruct deteriorating private parking lots, remove barriers, and integrate adjoining lots. Staff recommends a b~~gec f0r one to t~o lots of $25,000. I Pursuant to City Council direction, the Planning Division, with the help of a consultant will be preparing a new General Plan for the City. Numerous changes to the City's zoning ordinance and development criteria will be needed to provide for an enhanced downtown project area. Staff recommends a budget of $10,000. 10 10/11/94 I I 3i. MERCHANT TECH. ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (APPROVED) 0<:" 3j. SPECIAL EVENTS (APPROVED) /l - 1 . v-6cc ,,' FISCAL IMPACT 0",", ." ~ cJl.~ . ~ . i 36:0353 This program provides business support to the merchants in the downtown area (and City) by utilizing the existing Chamber of Commerce three training seminars at no cost to the City. The Chamber is responsible for this per their annual contract with the City. When the streetscape is in place, staff will investigate the possibility of special promotional events, e.g. shows, concerts and parades. Future cost unknown. .Ii' The grand total of Downtown 2000 - $2,443,000 to $4,056,000. In a brief discussion of the Downtown 2000 program components, Agency Member Lojeski felt that the programs set forth are equally important to the revitalization of the downtown area, the effort to revitalize the area has to be an all encompassing program. The other members concurred. In reply to Member Lojeski, Executive Director Kelly said that staff may need some additional help for some of the programs. It was MOVED by Agency Member Margett, seconded by Agency Member Chang and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to APPROVE the Downtown 2000 programs B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I and J, and tentative budgets subject to further refinement by staff. AYES: Agency Members Chang, Kuhn (D,F,G,I,J), Margett and Young None Agency Member Kuhn (B, C, E, H) Loj eski, NOES: ABSTAIN: The summary of possible or pending project expenditures for all the projects discussed ranged from $5,773,000 to $14,171,000. The total of estimated funds available for these projects from Redevelopment funds was $4,363,000, which indicated a difference ranging from $1,410,000 to $9,808,000. Staff conclusions were: 1 - There are now or shortly will be sufficient funds available to implement the complete Downtown 2000 Plan and Program; and, 2 - There are not sufficient funds to complete both the Foulger (Theatre) project and the Fifth Avenue Joint Project unless the Agency issues Tax Allocation bonds. Such a bond issue could provide an estimated $6 - 7 million in net bond proceeds. This when combined with developer contributions to the project will enable the Agency to complete both projects if desired. City Manager/Executive Director requested Council/Agency direction to explore the issue of a tax increment bond issue, or to explore other financing alternatives. With the authorization of the Council/Agency staff will talk with a financial consultant and bring a report on financial options for Council/Agency consideration. Member Loj eski noted that funds will be available for all the projects with the exception of the joint venture on Fifth Avenue and the Foulger Theater project. The initial priority project could be Downtown 2000 Revitalization and the Southwest and Northwest Corner projects. In reply to Chairman Young staff related that in 1986 when the Gribble Project on Huntington Drive was in process, the Agency had a three year tax allocation note whiCh was sold for $3.3 million which was rolled over in 1989 into a full term bond for 25 years for $3,780,000. Staff proposes that a similar tax increment bond issue could be explored again. 10/11/94 11 CLOSED SESSION ,J Iff) . (If! ADJOURNMENT ATTEST: 36:0354 Member Chang felt that there is nothing wrong in exploring the possibilities. Member Margett also felt that it is all right to explore financing options. Chairperson Young also agreed that financing alternatives should be explored. Member Kuhn felt that all options should be explored. MATTERS FROM STAFF The City Manager reported that Governor Wilson vetoed the Solis Bill... the issue of landfills. The City Attorney noted that the efforts of the City paid off. The City Attorney updated the Council on the Rodeffer landfill issue. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 for a conference with labor negotiators Dan Cassidy and/or Gary Rogers regarding the Arcadia Firefighter's Association and the Arcadia Police Relief Association. At 9: 50 p. m. the Council/Agency entered the CLOSED SESSION, RECONVENED the ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING, and ADJOURNED at 10:32 p. m., to Tuesday, October 18, 1994 at 7:00 p. m., in the Council Chambers for a regular meeting to conduct the business of the Council and the Redevelopment Agency and any closed session necessary to discuss personnel. litigation matters and evaluation of properties. V/}UA11$ff'T Mary B. Yo g, May J 12 10/11/94 I I