HomeMy WebLinkAboutMAY 5,1992_3
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CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS ARE TAPE RECORDED AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY
CLERK
INVOCATION
PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
MINUTES
(April 21, 1992)
(APPROVED)
ORD. & RES,
READ BY
TITLE ONLY
NATIONAL DAY
OF PRAYER
o/ro- 30
If lIeIL -f.s
l.
ARC. BOND
COMTE.
(Sch. Bond
Election)
1030 - 11f)
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA
and the
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
REGUlAR MEETING
MAY 5, 1992
The City Council and the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency met in
a regular session at 7:34 p.m., Tuesday, May 5, 1992, in the
Arcadia City Hall Council Chamber.
Rev. Russell Williams, The Santa Anita Church
Councilman Joseph Ciraulo
PRESENT:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
ABSENT:
On MOTION by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo, seconded by Councilman
Harbicht, and CARRIED, the Minutes of the Adjourned and Regular
Meetings of April 21, 1992, were APPROVED.
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Margett and CARRIED that Ordinances and Resolutions be read
by title only and that the reading in full be WAIVED.
PRESENTATION
The presentation by the Foothill Private Industry Council to
be rescheduled. No representatives from the same were present.
Rev. Russell Williams announced that in observance of the
National Day of Prayer on May 7, 1992, there will be an Arcadia
Community Ecumenical Prayer service at the Arcadia High School
gymnasium at 8:00 p.m. on that date. Rev. Williams invited
the Council to the event. In reference to the riots in Los
Angeles this past week, Rev. Williams suggested that Mayor
Fasching establish an Inter-Community Task Force with
representatives from.the cultural/ethnic, business, religious
and governmental communities to explore the cultural and ethnic
diversity in the City and find ways that Arcadians can
celebrate this ethnic and cultural diversity. Councilman
Lojeski will represent the Mayor and Council at the meeting
on May 7.
Consideration of the request from the Arcadia Unified School
District (AUSD) that the City Council draft and pass a
resolution to be acted upon at the Council meeting of May 19,
1992, calling a Special City Election to be held on September
15, 1992, on issues the Council deems relevant to the interests
of the City of Arcadia, and if such an election is held, allow
the School District to consolidate its bond issue election with
the Ci ty e lee tion. Terrence Towner, Superintendent of the
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AUSD, introduced the General Chairman of the Citizen's Bond
Committee (ABC), Judge John Saunders. Judge Saunders then
introduced Co-chairmen Mike Hawkins and Randy Kroha, who gave
a short presentation of the condition of the School District
facilities emphasizing the critical need for the bond issue
to refurbish the schools and School District offices.
Michael Hawkins, 1145 Drake Road, stated in part that, "after
family, there is nothing more important in our society than
education. From education flow jobs; flow asset acquisition
and opportunities..." The Bond Committee wishes to continue
the fine example of education and the fine tradition of
education in the City by improving the schools. The committee,
he noted, numbers over 70 people within the City.
Randv Kroha, 1000 Paloma Drive, joined Mr. Hawkins for the
slide presentation and stated in part that the general
obligation bond issue proposed by the School District and the
FACTS Committee, which is a citizens' committee that studied
this issue with the School District, is a 28 million dollar
bond. "The bonds will be taken out in different years so that
will stretch the bond payment out to 27 years." This will
reduce the cost of the bond to each of the homeowners. Mr.
Kroha noted that the average assessed valuation of a home in
Arcadia is approximately $195,000. This equates to an
assessment of $40 per year to each homeowner for the average
home. This figure will fluctuate a few cents every year,
according to Mr. Kroha.
Mr. Kroha noted the rundown and dilapidated condition of the
Arcadia schools, which were not in this condition 15 or 20
years ago as many may remember them. Many prospective home
buyers see the schools differently than Arcadians remember
them. The campus' do not look like the beautiful campus' of
15 years ago. He contrasted the high test scores and
outstanding confidence in the administration and teachers with
the disrepair of the facilities. Further, the facilities are
no longer efficient in terms of modern technology for heating,
lighting and ventilation. The District spends hundreds of
thousands of dollars each year on unnecessary utility
bills. . . this is robbing those same dollars from the educational
program. There are no grant funds to help upgrade the Arcadia
schools. The School District has applied for every funding
opportunity available, he added. Because the District lacks
funds standard maintenance has been delayed also. This has
caused deterioration of the plumbing, electrical, roofing and
other very important systems.
Slides were projected to illustrate the deleterious condition
of the facilities, such as, rotted beams, leaking ceilings,
'outdated faulty lighting, rotting restroom fixtures, leaking
plumbing.. .Mr. Kroha noted also that the electrical systems
in most of the schools cannot accommodate computers. The
infrastructure of the Arcadia schools has fallen far behind
other communities. He noted also that more than $28,000,000
is needed; however, the State restricts the District to the
amount that can be spent without demolishing the facilities
and completely rebuilding them, or upgrading them in such a
way that they may as well be rebuilt. Therefore, Arcadia is
limited to $50 a square foot on average for the total
improvements of all the facilities. Depending on which school,
it will cost from $17 per square foot at some of the schools
to $68 at Arcadia High. These figures do not include such
frills as air conditioning...ceiling fans will be utilized.
The School District has also considered alternative financing
such as selling off school property...this would result in an
increase of the school population at the remaining facilities.
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The citizens of Arcadia did not want School District properties
to be sold and indicated this at the many public hearings which
were held on this issue.
In reference to the school bonds Hr. Kroha commented that the
issue will be a flat bond rate; most of the bonds will be
financed by younger and middle aged persons rather than retired
homeowners. The bond issue, he noted, should be supported
because it is the right thing to do; it is the right investment
to make in our community and in the students; it is the right
investment to make for Arcadia property values.
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Barbara Newhouse, 503 W. Duarte Road, stated, in part, that
her family has lived in Arcadia for 18 months. They chose
Arcadia because of the sense of community here, and the strong
educational system. She is the coordinator of the Holly Avenue
Elementary School team to promote the bond issue. Hrs.
Newhouse described her team activities in this regard, such
as, voter registration; a public forum on Hay 28th; and various
fund raisers are planned to support the bond campaign. There
are eight other groups formed such as hers, according to Mrs.
Newhouse.
A brief discussion ensued centered on the cost per year to the
homeowner. Mr. Kroha and Mr. Hawkins verified that the cost
would be $40 per $200,000 assessed valuation. Councilman
Margett noted there are approximately 15,000 parcels in the
City, if the assessed value per parcel did not escalate the
bonds could not be paid off in 27 years plus the interest and
the load. He felt also that it is important to be up-front
with the homeowners on this matter. The bond agent, Security-
Pacific Bank, feel that they have been very conservative for
Arcadia in their assessment of what the growth in assessed
values might be, according to Mr. Kroha. Also, Security-
Pacific base their future projections on an analysis of past
projections. Councilman Margett expressed concern that the
properties may not turn over that quickly and the funds would
not increase quickly enough to payoff the bonds over the 27
years. His questions, he stated, were designed to understand
the variables as a Councilman responsible to the public.
Councilman Margett also requested a meeting with the bond
committee and Messrs. Kroha and Hawkins to discuss the details,
to which they enthusiastically agreed. Mr. Kroha commented
at this point, that with the end of the school semester in June
and an election scheduled for September 15th, the bond
committee requests an endorsement from the Council with their
full support of the school bond. Also the committee still has
to solicit bids, and they may have to modify the bond issue,
but they are going ahead with this matter and will properly
manage the bonds. . . they would like to have everyone behind the
bond now.
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Mayor Fasching commented that Council would call for the
election at the May 19 City Council meeting, and at that time,
after Council's questions, if any, have been answered, give
the bond issue Council's endorsement. In reference to the
cost of the proposed election, Councilman Lojeski clarified,
that as part of Council's action this evening the School
District understands that the costs involved in the conduct
of the election would be borne by the District. Further, a
written agreement would be drafted between the School District
and the City to this end. Mr. Towner interjected that the
School District anticipated paying the cost of the Special
Election in September.
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Margett and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to DIRECT
staff to prepare a resolution calling for a City Special
Election for City Charter amendments, with the City Council
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2.
PUBLIC HEARING
(Draft Hsh1d.
Haz. Waste
Element)
(ACCEPTED)
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to determine the scope of the City Charter revisions at the
May 12, 1992, Council Study Session, the Special Election to
be consolidated with the Arcadia Unified School District Bond
Issue Election on September 15, 1992; and DIRECT staff to
prepare a reimbursement agreement between the City and the
School District for payment to the City of Arcadia of the costs
thereof.
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
Mayor Fasching expressed Council's appreciation to the members
of the Arcadia Bond Committee, and Mrs. Newhouse, for their
presentation.
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Consideration of the Preliminary Draft of the Household
Hazardous Waste Element (HHWE) prepared pursuant to the
requirements of the California Integrated Waste Management Act
of 1989. The HHWE has been prepared in conjunction with the
City's Source Reduction and Recycling Element (SRRE). AB 2702
requires local agencies to separately prepare a plan to address
the proper collection, handling and disposal of household
hazardous waste (HHW). As defined by State law, HHW are those
wastes resulting from products purchased by the general public
for household use which, because of their quantity
concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious
characteristics may pose a substantial known or potential
hazard to human health or the environment when improperly
treated, disposed, or otherwise managed. Such materials
include paint, solvents, thinners, motor oil, car batteries,
pesticides and fertilizers. This public hearing was set and
the notice of the same was published in the Arcadia Tribune
on April 26, 1992. The April 29, 1992, staff report provides
background history of AB 939, known as the California
Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989. Said Act requires
cities and counties to develop plans (the SRRE and HHWE) to
address each respective agency's goals and objectives in
attaining the state mandated waste reduction and diversion
goals. The City's HHW was developed by the consulting team
of Charles Abbot and Associates and Gershman, Brickner and
Bratton under the direction of the San Gabriel Valley Solid
Waste Management Joint Powers Authority.
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing.
Seeing no one come forward, Councilman Lojeski MOVED to close
the public hearing, seconded by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo and
CARRIED.
The City Council did not make any revisions in the preliminary
draft of the Household Hazardous Waste Element.
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It was then MOVED by Councilman Lojeski, seconded by Councilman
Harbicht and CARRIED to ACCEPT the preliminary draft of the
HHWE and DIRECT staff to prepare the final draft.
3,
PUBLIC HEARING Consideration of Modification No. MH 92-001, a request for a
MH 92-001 maximum height of 6'-0. (as built) in lieu of 4'-0. for the
(284 ArboladaDr.) east and west side property line walls/fences for a front yard
(APPROVED) landscaping project at 284 Arbolada Drive. Dr. and Mrs.
William Dale are the applicants/owners of the property.
Os;'''oa ~,;J~-' Previously an application had been before the Council and the
Council at that time approved a maximum height of 4'-0. for
the wall/fence which had already been built at 6'.0.. The
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IN FAVOR
4.
PUBLIC HEARING
NUISANCE AllATE-
MENT/REHAB.
(300 E.Sycamore)
(APPROVED)
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34:0124
applicant then had the project redesigned with a lower height
wall and submitted the revised plans to the Santa Anita Oaks
Homeowners Association, Architectural Review Board (ARB).
That design was denied by the ARB on March 10, 1992, after
which the applicant submitted a new application to the ARB for
reconsideration of the "as built" design of the side property
line walls. After considerable discussion between the
applicant, the ARB and neighbors in the area, the application
for reconsideration of the "as built" walls was approved by
the Association's ARB on March 20, 1992. The applicant has
now applied to the City Council for approval of the "as built"
walls and fences. Findings for approval are set forth in the
May 5, 1992, staff report.
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing and invited the
applicant to come forward.
Dr. William Dale, 284 Arbolada Drive, stated in part that his
application for the improvements has been before Council, the
Planning Commission and the Modification Committee for some
time now. He implored the Council to approve his project; to
bring this matter to a conclusion; a project which started 15
months ago. The ARB has approved the "as built" project; the
wall is in balance with the adjacent wall on the neighbor's
property. The abutting property owners have also approved the
project "as built."
Councilman Harbicht commented that he also has no problems with
the project "as built" at this point.
No one else came forward to speak to this matter and it was
MOVED by Councilman Lojeski, seconded by Councilman Harbicht
and CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo commented that the applicant has now
overcome all of the objections of the ARB and the neighbors,
who now believe the project is in harmony with the
neighborhood. Further, he has no problem approving the project
"as built."
Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo then MOVED to APPROVE Application No.
HH 92-001 based on the evidence presented; FIND that approval
of the Modification request will secure an appropriate
improvement, prevent any unreasonable hardship, or promote
uniformity of development; DIRECT staff to prepare an
appropriate resolution incorporating the City Council's
decision and supportive finding; FIND that the subject
improvements are architecturally harmonious and compatible,
and MOVE to concur with the Santa Anita Oaks Homeowners
Association, Architectural Review Board approval, seconded by
Councilman Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows:
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
Pursuant to Section 9407 of the Arcadia Municipal Code this
hearing was set to determine whether or not a public nuisance
exists and what action is necessary to abate the nuisance at
a vacant dwelling and property at 300 East Sycamore Avenue.
As required, a "Notice of Public Nuisance and Order to Abate"
was mailed on March 31, 1992, to B & S Pacific and North
American Investment, the owners of record of the said property.
A notice was also posted on the property.
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34:0125
The subject property has a vacant house and a swimming pool
on the premises. The following violations have been cited on
the property:
1. Lack of fencing around the pool which constitutes a safety
hazard.
2. Unsanitary swimming pool.
3. Trash, junk and debris on the property.
4. Landscaping not maintained.
5. Unsecured building - window area.
All certified-mail notices to the owners of the property have
been returned to the City. Staff has made many attempts to
reach the individual owners since beginning property I
maintenance proceedings. Further background information is
set forth in the May 5, 1992 staff report, such as 90 feet of
the southerly wall which enclosed the swimming pool at the
subject property, as a result of the June 28, 1991 earthquake,
had fallen over into the neighbor's property. The pool has
been drained twice by the Arcadia Fire Department. The other
conditions still remain.
Staff explained the abatement procedure to Council, also, the
increase of properties throughout the City which stand vacant
because of absent property owners and therefore the properties
are not maintained; in some of the cases the owners are out
of the country.
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing.
Bruce Anderson, 307-B East Foothill Blvd., stated in part that
he lives directly behind 300 E. Sycamore. The masonry wall
on the property toppled over onto his property. Mr. Anderson
and his wife cleaned up the debris. He has made many attempts
to contact the owner of the property. The owner, Mr. Anderson
stated, is fully aware of the problems existing at the
property. The owners moved out of the home last September or
October. He stated also that he sees no other activity on the
property, other than an occasional transient.
Council briefly discussed the abatement process with the City
Attorney. It was then MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded
by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo and CARRIED to CLOSE the public
hearing.
RESOLUTION
NO. 5657
(ADOPTED)
0'5" c:> 0.<;; ()
Mayor Fasching presented and read the title of Resolution No.
5657: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING A PUBLIC NUISANCE AND ORDERING
THE REHABILITATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 300 EAST
SYCAMORE, ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AND AUTHORIZING THE DIRECTOR
OF FINANCE TO COLLECT THE COST FOR ABATEMENT, IF ABATEMENT AT
CITY EXPENSE IS REQUIRED, PER SECTIONS 9406.5, 9406.6, AND/OR
9406.9 OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE."
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It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Margett and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that
Resolution No. 5657 be and it is hereby ADOPTED.
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
5.
PUBLIC HEARING
NUISANCE ABATE-
MENT / REHAB.
(120 E. Las Flores)
(APPROVED)
:;}..;--:, ." ." ,)
Pursuant to Section 9407 of the Arcadia Municipal Code this
hearing was scheduled to determine whether a public nuisance
exists and what action is necessary to abate the nuisance on
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RESOLUTION
NO. 5658
(ADOPTED)
()5';).~'~ _':)
34:0126
the vacant dwelling and property at l20 East Las Flores Avenue.
A "Notice of Public Nuisance and Order to Abate" was mailed
to the affected property owners, Jack M. and Ru Lan Wu, on
April 23, 1992. A notice was also posted on the property.
As said, the subj ect property is vacant.
violations have been cited on this property:
The following
1. Weeds and dead vegetation on the premises and parkway
areas.
2. Excessive accumulation of trash and debris, discarded
miscellaneous items which are not screened from public
view.
3. Refuse which is not being disposed of according to law.
4. Lack of landscape maintenance, i.e., trimming of tree
branches, overgrown vegetation, ground cover on the
premises which is out of conformity with adjacent
residential properties.
The only available address for the property owner is the site
address. All certified-mail notices have been returned from
the post office. The City code enforcement officer has
received numerous complaints from the adjoining property owners
regarding the maintenance of subj ect property. Further
background information is set forth in the May 5, 1992 staff
report.
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing.
Mrs. Monica McGuire, 128 East Las Flores, stated in part that
the property in question was sold in July of 1991 and has not
been maintained but once since. The house is vacant and the
existing conditions are terrible; there are newspapers in the
yard from last July; one of the owners lives elsewhere in
Arcadia; the husband, who is the other owner, has returned to
his country and left the maintenance to a person named Tim,
who works for Mr. Wu, the owner.
Councilman Harbicht commented that Council will take action
tonight to take care of the problem. This to the group of
other neighbors waiting to speak to this issue.
Mike McGuire, 128 East Las Flores, inquired about the abatement
procedure. The City Attorney responded that the City abatement
process is a continuing order to permanently abate the
condition of the property. The documents will be worded
appropriately to the conditions under consideration this
evening. If another problem arises, that would be another
matter.
Dick Musuraca, 146 East Las Flores. In answer to Mr. Musuraca,
staff responded that code enforcement officers would monitor,
the property after the initial cleanup by the City. The City
would also continue to try and contact the property owners.
This cleanup will not be on a weekly basis, only as needed when
the property again becomes a nuisance.
Mrs. McGuire mentioned also that the winds caused a large
branch to fall onto the roof and the TV antenna is also laying
over on the roof. It is evident to anyone driving past that
the house is vacant.
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Lojeski and CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
The Planning Director presented and read the title of
Resolution No. 5658: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING A PUBLIC NUISANCE AND ORDERING
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5/5/92
6.
PUBLIC HEARING
NUISANCE ABATE-
MENT/REHAB.
(415-417 S. 2nd
Ave.)
(APPROVED)
tJ ':,-.:).0 - 5"0
RESOLUTION
NO. 5659
(ADOPTED)
0>.20- ';-0
34:0127
THE REHABILITATION OF,REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 120 EAST LAS
FLORES AVENUE, ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AND AUTHORIZING THE
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO COLLECT THE COST FOR ABATEMENT, IF
ABATEMENT AT CITY EXPENSE IS REQUIRED, PER SECTIONS 9406.5,'
9406.6, AND/OR 9406.9 OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE."
It was MOVED by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo, seconded by Councilman
Harbicht and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that
Resolution No. 5658 be and it is hereby ADOPTED.
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
I
NOES:
ABSENT:
Pursuant to Section 9407 of the Arcadia Municipal Code this
hearing was scheduled to determine whether a public nuisance
exists and what action is necessary to abate the nuisance on
the vacant dwelling and property located at 415-417 South
Second Avenue. A "Notice of Public Nuisance and Order to
Abate" was mailed to Richard Hirrell, Attorney-at-Law and
responsible party for the affected property on April 23, 1992.
A notice was also posted on the property.
The subject property is vacant. The following violations have
been cited on the property:
1. Weeds and dead vegetation on the premises, adjacent to the
alley and in the parkway area.
2. Lack of landscape maintenance and building maintenance.
3. Unsecured building.
The City Attorney announced that, "I have a supplement to this
report, because I did have a conversation with Mr. Hirrell,
the attorney. I don't know if he's here this evening. Let
me just add, for the record, this is an estate that he is in
the administration of right now. The estate has no money.
However, the subject property, the sale of this property, has
been approved by the court and it's going into escrow. And
hopefully, the purchaser, whoever that will be, if the sale
goes through, will rectify the problem. However, I recommend
that you still go forward with this hearing and declare this
a public nuisance after you hear all the evidence because we're
not assured that this sale is going to go through nor that the
purchaser will comply."
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing. No one came forward
to testify and it was MOVED by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo, seconded
by Councilman Harbicht and CARRIED that the public hearing be
CLOSED.
Councilman Harbicht commented that he agrees with the City
Attorney's recommendation.
I
The Planning Director presented and read the title of
Resolution No. 5659: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING A PUBLIC NUISANCE AND
ORDERING THE REHABILITATION OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 415.
417 SOUTH SECOND AVENUE, ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AND AUTHORIZING
THE DIRECTOR OF FINANCE TO COLLECT THE COST FOR ABATEMENT, IF
ABATEMENT AT CITY EXPENSE IS REQUIRED, PER SECTIONS 9406.5,
9406.6, AND/OR 9406.9 OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE."
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Mayor Pro tem
Ciraulo and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that
Resolution No. 5659 be and it is hereby ADOPTED.
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5/5/92
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7.
PUBLIC HEARING
1991 UNIFORM
BLDG., MECH.,
PLUMBING,
HOUSING, &
SWIMMING POOL,
SPA & HOT TUB
CODES
(APPROVED)
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34:0128
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
NOES:
Consideration of the adoption of the 1991 Editions of the
Uniform Building, Uniform Plumbing, Uniform Mechanical, Uniform
Housing and Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Codes,
including all additions, deletions and amendments mandated by
the State of California. Staff report dated May 5, 1992, sets
forth in detail the amendments to the various Codes. The maj or
changes in the Building Code relate to fire protection
requirements and to special requirements for multiple-family
structures. The Uniform Swimming Pool, Spa and Hot Tub Code
is a new code and significantly increases the safety barrier
requirements for new swimming pool installations. The May 5,
1992 staff report sets forth the proposed swimming pool code
requirements which would apply to permits granted after June
19, 1992.
Referring to the proposed barrier requirements for swimming
pools, Councilman Harbicht noted that a fence installed across
a driveway and around a back yard would not suffice under the
new code requirements. Further, that the pool, spa or hot tub
must be completely surrounded by a safety barrier such as an
alarm or a fence.
Mayor Fasching opened the public hearing.
Terrv Snow, Dean Pools, 4030 East Live Oak, stated in part that
he is currently past president of the National Spa 6. Pool
Institute, Southern California Chapter. Safety is a very
important issue to this industry, however, they feel Arcadia's
ordinance regulating pool and spa fencing is up to their
standards as it now exists. At this time Arcadia requires a
4 1/2 foot high fence around the perimeter of the back yard
and the house is the fourth side of the barrier with code
amendments relating to driveways and so forth which have been
successfully working for a long time. His industry emphasizes
that supervision is the key point in regard to safety around
a swimming pool. The proposed new code talks about installing
alarms, in his opinion the alarm systems are unproven and
untested at this time. It is proposed that the alarms be
installed to sound-off when a sliding glass door, for example,
is open for more than 15 seconds or a window on the pool side
of the house is opened. He feels, in the summer months when
doors may be open for ventilation the alarms may be turned off.
The alarm and/or fencing between the house and the pool may
produce a false sense of security. . . parental supervision should
be the key focus of pool safety. The security issues should
be left to the homeowner. Mr. Snow suggested that the Building
Department work with the swimming pool and spa industry in
Arcadia to talk about the codes and address some of the issues.
Rudv Franta, Arcadia Chief Building Official, stated in part
that the Uniform Building Codes are considered each year at
an annual business meeting for the International Conference
of Building Officials. They allow building officials, special
interest group representatives and manufacturers to voice their
opinions regarding building codes. The City Council of Arcadia
then has the option to adopt or amend the sections of the
building code. The primary difference in the existing code
and the proposed swimming pool code is the barrier at the
house. The house in the existing code is now the fourth
barrier. The safety barrier regulation in the new code is
optional. Staff recommends that the alarm provision or the
proposed barrier between the house and the pool be adopted in
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5/5/92
ORDINANCE
NO. 1969
(INTRODUCED)
0>.::2 0 -0-;-
8.
PUBLIC HEARING
APPEAL -
GAME MACHINES
(Star Liquor -
8 W. Duarte)
(DENIED)
:;3:;O~J -;
34:0129
full. The Council does have the discretion to delete the
provis ion for the audible alarm or the addi tional barrier
requirements.
It was MOVED by Councilman Hargett, seconded by Mayor Pro tem
Ciraulo and CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
Councilman Harbicht expressed his concern regarding the
proposed alarm system for doors and windows facing pool areas.
This requirement seems like an unnecessary harassment to people
who want to install a swimming pool. He does not favor
including this alarm system or the fourth side of fencing in
Arcadia's Building Code. Councilman Harbicht prefers leaving
the house as the fourth barrier as it is in the current code. I
Councilman Margett agreed, he believes the existing code is
sufficient. Councilman Harbicht reiterated that he is in
favor of adopting the Uniform Building Code and deleting this
requirement for the alarm on the doors and windows if the house
remains in the code as the fourth barrier, thus deleting the
alarm and fourth fence as a barrier requirement of the Uniform
Swimming Pool Code. Mayor Fasching agreed with Councilmen
Harbicht and Margett on this issue.
The Planning Director presented for introduction and read the
title of Ordinance No. 1969: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CERTAIN
REGULATIONS SET FORTH IN ARTICLE VIII OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL
CODE ADOPTING THE UNIFORM BUILDING CODE, 1991 EDITION, UNIFORM
PLUMBING CODE, 1991 EDITION, UNIFORM SWIMMING POOL, SPA AND
HOT TUB CODE, 1991 EDITION, UNIFORM MECHANICAL CODE, WITH
CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS THERETO, AND AMENDING, ADDING
AND DELETING CERTAIN BUILDING REGULATIONS SET FORTH IN ARTICLE
VIII OF THE ARCADIA MUNICIPAL CODE."
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Mayor Pro tem
Ciraulo and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that Ordinance
No. 1969 be and it is hereby INTRODUCED as AMENDED by DELETING
Item No.9, Page 7, Chapter 4 - Swimming Pools, Article III
of the Arcadia Municipal Code.
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
Consideration of an appeal to the decision of the Business
License and Permit Review Board denying a permit for the
installation of game and amusement machines in the Star Liquor
store located at 8 West Duarte Road. The application for the
permit was filed by Mr. Chi Chae Lee to operate two game
machines. Mr. Lee had previously installed two machines
without obtaining the required permit. The background history
of this case is detailed in the May 5, 1992 staff report from
the Business License and Permit Review Board. At the Board
hearing testimony was presented that: 1) There were unlicensed
game machines at the 8 West Duarte Road location; 2) The
machines were being used by youths in violation of the City's
"time of use" restriction; 3) Despite several warnings from
the Arcadia Police Department, the owners failed to exercise
sufficient control of the machines so as to comply with the
City's requirements. At the aforesaid hearing Mr. Lee
testified that he would comply. Based upon testimony presented
at the hearing the Business License and Permit Review ,Board
denied the application. In addition to the Board's report,
the May 5, 1992 staff report includes a report from Arcadia
Police Sgt. Sanderson; letters in opposition to the game
machines from Daniel and Shirley Lewis, Dorothy Cambianica,
I
-10-
5/5/92
I
I
IN FAVOR OF
THE APPEAL
OPPOSITION
TO THE APPEAL
34: 0130
Mr. Payne, Assistant Principal Arcadia High School and Edward
Kushner.
Adam Lutz, 31 Christina, stated, in part, one of the issues
he has been hearing about regarding the problem with the games
at Star Liquor and kids hanging out there is the crime problem
with cars stolen and vandalized. This crime problem existed
before the game machines were installed. His car was stolen
and vandalized, also his brother-in-law's car, this has been
an ongoing problem. The Lee's have invested money into the
liquor store and have made the business grow. They have also
increased the inventory. It is more than a liquor
store. . . other items are sold. He likes the convenience of this
store. Mr. Lee needs the games there because his business has
dropped off dramatically since the games were removed. Mr.
Lutz suggested that Mr. Lee receive a temporary permit and see
if he can get control of the situation. Several of the other
shops nearby have games. . . do they all have permits? Bike racks
could be installed and the games turned off during school hours
to alleviate the situation.
Diana Mehino, 29 West Orange Grove, stated in part that her
son Tim enjoys the games at Mr. Lee's store after school. He
has missed this activity since they have been removed. Other
young people have enjoyed the games also. Mr. Lee is a good
man.
Citv Attornev Michael Miller, for the record, noted that Mr.
Lee was present and did not wish to address the Council in his
behalf.
Neal Johnson, Arcadia Chief of Police, stated in part that the
Star Liquor is basically a liquor store and not a gathering
place for young people. There have been some very serious
truancy ~ ~oblems at this location each and every day. The
problem started last February when large groups of young people
gathered to the rear of the location and created disturbances.
There are fights and the police have confiscated lead pipes
and things of this sort that have been at this location. It
is apparent that the owners of Star Liquor cannot control this
because each time the police go into the shop there are
juveniles there playing the games. Chief Johnson recommended,
and the recommendation of the property owners of 8 West Duarte
Road, that Council deny the game machine permit application.
William Donahoo, 35 Christina, stated in part, two years ago
the donut shop put in two game machines. The neighborhood then
had all kinds of vandalism; cars were broken into; property
stolen; graffiti, skate boards, bicycles and cars racing in
the parking lot. ..the games were removed from the donut shop.
The Donahoo's have owned their property at 35 Christina for
twelve years, there was no trouble in the neighborhood until
the donut shop installed the game machines. The games at the
liquor store will also bring in truant teenagers who will spend
their lunch money on the games. In closing Mr. Donahoo stated
that "you do not allow minors to go into bars to play machines,
so why should they hang around a liquor store." Mr. Donahoo
also presented a letter from retired Arcadia Police Officer
Ron Johnson opposing the appeal and called attention to the
many people in the audience, Christina residents, who are
against this appeal.
Michael DeGrazio, 12 East Duarte Road, owner of a barber shop
at that location since 1979, stated in part that from the back
door of his shop he can see what goes on in the alley. The
Arcadia kids are good kids but other kids from gangs come to
the area. The back of his shop is filled with graffiti. He
is afraid that someone will be killed someday back there. He
-11-
5/5/92
IN FAVOR
9.
9a.
APPT. TO
RECREATION
COMSN.
(Travisano)
()/';;'o_60
9b.
JOB CLASS.
(Rec. Dept.
Grt. Position)
(APPROVED)
tJ:J. ,) 0,;0
34: 0131
has nothing against Mr. Lee, however, because of the situation
he would like the permit to be denied. Mr. DeGrazio has lost
a lot of business because of this situation. Patrons will not
come into his barber shop because of the problems in the area.
He once counted 63 young people gathered in back of his shop.
They are not all Arcadia children. ..they come from different
- areas looking for trouble.
Brvan Axt, stated in part that he has been going to Star Liquor
for about two years to play the video games. He has seen
truant kids there and has himself broken up a fight. Mr. Lee
no longer allows the games to be played during school hours.
For the most part most of the kids playing the games are good
kids. Give Mr. Lee another chance.
I
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Lojeski and CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
Councilman Harbicht stated in part, that the whole question
is whether a liquor store is an appropriate place for video
games. Since games appeal to children this seems incompatible
and inconsistent. Children should not be encouraged to hang
around liquor stores. Further, he does not see what would be
served by approving the permit. The appeal should be denied
and the games should not be allowed back into the liquor store.
MOTION by Councilman Harbicht to DENY the APPEAL and not allow
the games back into Star Liquor store and DIRECT staff to
prepare a resolution with findings; seconded by Councilman
Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows:
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
The Business License Officer to provide guidelines to the
Council as set forth in the Arcadia Municipal Code so that
Council may consider amending the Code to preclude game
machines from being installed anywhere that liquor is sold.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Councilman Lojeski MOVED to appoint Marian Travisano to the
vacancy on the Recreation Commission, seconded by Mayor Pro
tem Ciraulo and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows:
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
I
NOES:
ABSENT:
Pursuant to City Personnel Rules the Personnel Department
maintains a classification plan which defines the job
description of each job title for City staff. In order to
provide a more comprehensive classification plan for the
Recreation Department, the Personnel Board reviewed and
approved the proposed specification for the Recreation
Department.
It was MOVED by Mayor Pro tem Ciraulo, seconded by Councilman
Margett and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to APPROVE
and establish the classification of Senior Citizen Program
Typist Clerk (Class #5306), Senior Citizen Program Specialist
(Class #5305), Information and Referral Coordinator (Class
#5301), and Information and Health Specialist (Class #5304).
-12-
5/5/92
I
I
10.
cnc..;O-lo
/J,jp
11.
12.
34: 0132
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Mike Fer2uson, 2028 Highland Oaks Drive, President, Highland
Oaks Homeowners Association, stated in part that he is on the
Board of the Santa Anita Little League. The Highland Oaks HOA
passed a resolution requesting that stadium lights be installed
at Eisenhower Park. He is representing the Santa Anita Little
League and the Committee to Install Lighting at Eisenhower Park
for the purpose of extending the use of baseball facilities
at this park. This citizen's committee was formed to support
the following: 1) Rapid growth of the baseball leagues
requires additional playing time to accommodate 15 boys teams
and 6 girls teams; 2) Safety will increase for Arcadia's youth
with the addition of proper lighting during twilight and
evening park use; 3) Arcadia currently has four little leagues.
The Santa Anita Little League uses Eisenhower Park as a field.
All four leagues should be treated equally and they therefore
request that proper lighting be first installed at Eisenhower
Park as a working model of recreational improvements with the
full support and installation of lights at other league home
fields where it's deemed appropriate and supported by local
Arcadia citizens. All four little leagues are very successful.
The Santa Anita Little League has extended the playing time
to where they have run out of places to play. Therefore, the
committee asks for the support of Council in this endeavor.
Mr. Ferguson, in response to Council's questions, said the
playing surfaces at other locations are very hard. Eisenhower
Park has a quality playing field and also stadium seating plus
a snack bar and parking. The Committee would consider turning
the lights off early in the evening if installed. . .8: 15 or 8: 30
p.m., because the players are elementary children who retire
early, and they do not want to disturb the nearby homeowners,
however, the lights would be on the baseball diamond and the
outfield only, which are not large areas. The noise may be
disturbing, however. Mr. Ferguson said the teams play until
the buzzer goes off at twilight. They would turn the lights
on one hour before twilight and could then play more games.
He would not be opposed to playing at a new area if the City
created one. Councilman Lojeski, referring to an earlier
request in 1983 for baseball lighting at a City park, related
that neighbors were concerned that this would change the
character of the park from a family parklike setting with
daytime activities to a park with problems such as loud noises
and vandalism and so forth. Also some neighbors in the area
signed a petition objecting to the lighting. Perhaps Council
can find a secondary site for Mr. Ferguson's league, he added.
Councilman Lojeski suggested that Mr. Ferguson meet with the
Director of Recreation to that end.
Vincent Hvdael, 3636 Watseca Avenue, West Los Angeles, Southern
California Edison Company. Mr. Hydael introduced himself as
the newly assigned Public Affairs Manager for the Cities of
Arcadia, Irwindale and Sierra Madre. He is looking forward
to working with the City of Arcadia.
THE CITY COUNCIL RECESSED IN ORDER TO ACT AS THE
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
-13-
5/5/92
12a.
ROLL CALL
12b.
MINUTES
(April 21,
(APPROVED)
12c.
DESIGN REVIEW
(255 Colorado
PI. - Motel 6)
(APPROVED)
34:0133
PRESENT: Agency Members Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett
and Fasching
ABSENT: None
- It was MOVED by Member Harbicht, seconded by Member Ciraulo
1992) and CARRIED to APPROVE the April 21, 1992 meeting minutes.
06 t/~-</()
12d.
ADJOURNMENT
Consideration of the proposed design for Motel 6 located at
225 Colorado Place. The applicant, Motel 6 Operating L.P.,
Dallas, Texas, proposes to rehabilitate the existing Motel 6
building which was damaged in the June 28, 1991, earthquake.
Motel 6 is a 20,850 square foot, 86-unit motel with 93 regular
parking stalls and five handicapped stalls. Other details of
the design review are set forth in the May 5. 1992 staff
report.
I
Jack Cravcroft, 4131 North Central Expressway, Dallas, Texas.
Mr. Craycroft, the architect representing Motel 6, stated in
part that he has read staff's recommendations for the recon-
struction of Motel 6 and the conditions of approval for the
design, he sees nothing wrong with them. Further, staff's
recommendations and conditions of approval are all a good idea.
The motel will be open for occupancy in three or four months,
he noted, after the building permits are obtained from the
Building Department. They expect to rebuild the building and
bring it up to all current structural codes. In reply to
Councilman Margett, Mr. Craycroft said the Motel 6 management
has not considered starting allover again to build another
building. The site is such, if they started anew the net
effect would still be, basically, the same design and situated
the same on the property. The color scheme will be updated.
The landscaping will be dramatically cleaned up, he added.
Mr. Craycroft will be the project manager at the site. He
noted also that the Motel 6 management and their attorney are
in agreement to the letter, with the Arcadia Redevelopment
Agency's "Owner and Tenant Participation Agreement/Grant of
Variance" agreement and it will be signed by the appropriate
people.
It was MOVED by Member Lojeski, seconded by Member Harbicht
and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows to APPROVE the Design
Review for Motel 6 located at 255 Colorado Place subject to
the following conditions:
1. That the project comply with all Zoning and Building Codes,
as established or modified by the City;
2. That the tenant (Motel 6) comply with the departmental
requirements as listed in the May 5, 1992 staff report;
3. That the property owner and tenant (Motel 6) execute an
Owner and Tenant Participation Agreement/Grant of Variance
in form approved by Agency Special and General Counsel;
and
4. That the Design Review be in effect for one year, as per
Resolution ARA-126.
I
AYES:
Members Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
NOES:
ABSENT:
The meeting of the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency adjourned to
5:30-p.m., May 12, 1992.
-14-
5/5/92
I
I
13.
14.
14a.
PUBLIC HEARING
(June 2, 1992)
eJ..s~O~.)O
14b.
PUBLIC HEARING
(May 19, 1992)
O~.;<O ...:;l()
14c.
PUBLIC HEARING
(May 19, 1992)
()" .:)(7 --.) i"
14d.
MEDICAL LV. /
ABSENCE
(Pers. Dept.)
O,;z~(1 ,'J S-
14e.
MEDICAL LV.I
ABSENCE
(Police Clk.)
t):1:J?O- .JS"
14f.
EVENTS
(Ch./Corom.
Holiday Co.
Faire)
()r3Q -.30
14g.
FINAL MAP
TR. 49375
(832-836 .
Naomi Av.)
0;'-60 f;f.?
14h.
APPT ./co.
SANITATION
DIST. BD.
(Alt. Dir.)
or.....-a,d,O
14i.
EQT. PUR.
(Respiratory
Air Compo
Truck - FD)
().3.,1'D_..30
14j.
FY 1993-95
SHORT RANGE
TRANSIT PL.
(Dial-A-Ride)
Ofr_,V -':"0
14k.
AUCTION SERVo
(City surplus
items)
(j3,1:J _.,()
34: 0134
THE CITY COUNCIL RECONVENED
CONSENT ITEMS
_ SCHEDULED a public hearing for June 2, 1992 to consider a
request from Von's Employees Association for a Bingo Permit.
RESCHEDULED a public hearing for May 19, 1992 to consider the
Final Draft of the Source Reduction and Recycling pursuant to
the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989.
SCHEDULED a public hearing for May 19, 1992 to consider the
Final Draft of the Household Hazardous Waste Element pursuant
to the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989.
APPROVED medical leave of absence without pay for Margaret
Rushing, Typist Clerk 11, Personnel Department, May 29 through
July 3, 1992, as per Resolution No. 5608, Section 14, Fringe
Benefi ts.
APPROVED medical leave of absence without pay for Police Clerk
Pamela Silcox for the period April 27 through August 8, 1992,
as per the City's Fringe Benefit Resolution No.' 5608
APPROVED the Holiday Country Faire sponsored by the Arcadia
Chamber of Commerce to be held on October 30 through November
1, 1992 at the Los Angeles County Park. This year's fair will
be expanded to include adult and children carnival attractions.
APPROVED Final Map of Tract No. 49375 for an eight-unit
residential condominium project at 832-836 Naomi Avenue (filed
on April 22, 1992 by the project engineer) subject to the
condition that before the Final Map is recorded, any and all
outstanding conditions of approval as outlined in the April
5, 1990 report from the Public Works Department, shall be
complied with to the satisfaction of the Director of Public
Works.
APPOINTED Councilman Robert Harbicht to serve as Alternate
Director to the Los Angeles County Sanitation District Board
of Directors.
AWARDED contract for the purchase of a respiratory air
compressor truck for the Fire Department in the amount of
$165,435.85 to Super Vac Incorporated. Funds in the amount
of $175,000 allocated in the FY 1991-92 Capital Improvement
Program.
APPROVED the FY 1993-95 Short Range Transit Plan for Arcadia
Dial-A-Ride to be submitted to the Los Angeles County Trans-
portation Commission and the Southern California Association
of Governments for approval.
APPROVED agreement with Nationwide
tion services for all City surplus
bicycles, supplies and equipment.
wide are 20% commission on surplus
vehicles.
Companies to provide auc-
property, i.e., vehicles,
Rates offered by Nation-
items and 8% on surplus
-15-
5/5/92
14l.
R/W ESMT. TO
SCEC
(Htg. Dr. at
Meth. Hasp.)
Ch, - ,i ,,?, '10
14m.
ADV. FOR BIDS
(PW Lt'ng.
Prog. 4 & 5
Jobs 506 & 521)
o t'l,; tJ Ie)
14n.
R/W DEDICATION
CORNER CUT-OFF
(NE Cor. 3rd Av.
& Calif. St.)
0-':60. tJ
140.
STORM WTR.
PERMIT RE
CLEAN WTR.
ACT (CWA)
(File Ltr.
of Intent)
(; ~ 10 (/()
15.
15a. .
RESOLUTION
NO. 5660
(ADOPTED)
t' '(~' c: .:..'~
16.
WATTS
FIRE CHIEF
GARDNER
(City of L.A. -
Fires, riots &
looting)
cV_~/":'
34: 0135
APPROVED Grant of Easement document granting Right of Way
Easement to the Southern California Edison Company for the
installation of Edison Company emergency electrical facilities
on Huntington Drive adjacent to service the Arcadia Methodist
_ Hospital. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the Grant of Easement
documents.
APPROVED plans and specifications for Public Works Lighting
Program Nos. 4 and 5 - Jobs Nos. 506 and 521; and AUTHORIZE
the City Clerk to advertise for bids.
APPROVE AND FILE the Negative Declaration and.J::llli2 that Public
Works Lighting Program No.5 will not have a significant effect
on the environment.
I
ACCEPTED dedication of the l5-foot radius corner cut-off for
public right of way purposes (streets) at the Northeast Corner
of Third Avenue and California Street. Tentative Parcel Map
No. 90-010, Parcel Map No. 22633 4-unit residential
condominium project approved by the Planning Commission at its
October 9, 1990, meeting.
AUTHORIZE filing Letter of Intent with Los Angeles County
indicating the City's intent to participate a~ a Co-Permittee
in Los Angeles County's National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permit and: DIRECT staff to work
with the Los Angeles County staff in meeting the NPDES permit
requirements, this in connection with Stormwater Permit No.
CA006l654-Cl6948 required of the County and City to comply with
the Federal Clean Water Act.
CITY ATTORNEY
The City Attorney presented andread the title of Resolution
No. 5660: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE SUBMITTAL OF THE
TRANSPORTATION DEVELOPMENT ACT CLAIM FORM TO RECEIVE FUNDS FOR
THE OPERATIONS OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA DIAL-A-RIDE FOR FISCAL
YEAR 1991-92."
It was MOVED by Councilman Harbicht, seconded by Councilman
Lojeski and CARRIED on roll call vote as follows that
Resolution No. 5660 be and it is hereby ADOPTED.
AYES:
Councilmen Ciraulo, Harbicht, Lojeski, Margett and
Fasching
None
None
I
NOES:
ABSENT:
MATTERS FROM STAFF
In reference to the recent riots, fires and looting that
occurred in South Central Los Angeles, the City Manager asked
Fire Chief Gardner and Police Chief Johnson to each give a
brief report on the City of Arcadia's response to this
emergency.
Fire Chief Gardner reported that Wednesday afternoon, April
29, the Fire Department received a call from Region 1, Los
Angeles County, asking that a strike team, which consists of
five engines, respond to the riots in Los Angeles. All mutual
-16-
5/5/92
I
I
POLICE CHIEf
JOHNSON
/l/se
34: 0136
aid resources in the San Gabriel Valley for a request to
respond to any emergency come through the Arcadia Fire
Department. Arcadia coordinates the response and resources
in the Valley. Arcadia did not participate in the first strike
request because we have an OES State fire engine assigned to
the City and that engine had to be held back for the next
request for strike teams. Thursday, Los Angeles County
contracted Arcadia again for two additional strike teams.
Those teams were gathered throughout the San Gabriel Valley.
Arcadia did participate on both of those teams. Two Arcadia
engines and eight firefighters were sent to the City of L.A.
and those firefighters fought more fires than anyone of them
had ever seen, through that night. They were escorted from
fire to fire by 12 police officers with shot guns who guarded
the firefighters and the fire trucks. The two engines returned
to Arcadia at 7:00 a.m. Friday morning. Chief Gardner was
pleased to report that there were no injuries and no Arcadia
personnel were shot at or hit with any flying objects. Chief
Gardner thanked Police Chief Johnson for issuing flack vests
to all of Arcadia's firefighters. He added that San Gabriel
Valley provided 13 fire engines from the eight cities in the
Valley that have fire departments; also 54 people and four
battalion chiefs. ..which represents a major commitment to the
mutual aid program of 1/3 of all the resources in San Gabriel
Valley. The mutual aid program is worthy. . . this same response
would be forthcoming to Arcadia if such an emergency should
occur here in Arcadia.
Chief Neal Johnson reported that most of the police response
to the Los Angeles riots came from neighboring cities in Orange
County, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Arcadia's
response was within the City of Arcadia. On Wednesday evening
when the rioting started, Chief Johnson returned to the
department to oversee operations. The police facilities,
police and City vehicles, City Hall, Council Chambers,
Communi ty Center, the Library and Fashion Park were all
secured. The Police Department was at full strength that
night, also ten police reserve officers were called to duty.
Thursday and Friday, April the 30th and May 1st, all days off
were cancelled and all police personnel were on standby and
all personnel in uniform. As of this date, May 5, Arcadia has
had one looting; four bomb threats; three different incidents
of persons brandishing firearms; one theft; two threatening
phone calls; and one assault. Also early Friday afternoon
fifteen male blacks went into Haugen's Sporting Goods store
on First Avenue and stole shoes, skates, baseball caps and
jackets for a loss to the store owner of approximately $2,000.
Chief Johnson described the above events in detail. During
this period of time as the police department answered calls
and investigated all the incidents Chief Johnson kept the City
Manager and Mayor Fasching apprised of the above incidents and
resolution of each. Other than the above Arcadia did not have
any fires in the City and police presented a high visibility
throughout the emergency. On Saturday, May 2, the Department
SWAT team Was called out to attend to a subject who had
barricaded himself in a house on South Sunset until 4:30 a.m.
when the subject committed suicide. He was despondent over
a broken relationship with a girl friend.
Mayor Fasching DIRECTED the City Manager's office to draft a
letter of commendation to be signed by the Council for the Fire
Department, Police Department, Fire Fighters Association and
the Police Association commending those individuals for their
participation, commitment and dedication to the people of this
community in their performance during the crisis within Los
Angeles County. Also, a similar letter to the police reserve
officers.
-17-
5/5/92
17.
HARBICHT
(Peacocks)
LOJESKI
(Prop.
maintenance)
o s:":J.O - ,,()
N,ie
LOJESKI
(Earthquake
haz. bldg.)
LOJESKI
(Mosquito
abatement)
LOJESKI
(Tree removal/
earth moving -
L.A. Co. Fld.
Control area)
CIRAVLO
(Prop.
maiI1tenance)
FASCIIING
(Closed
Session)
," 0'
'j!.') . ,.,.
'., II.
t\- a 'r.~,
FASCHING
(Memory of
Phyllis Parker)
1~(r;..I"f)O (1 J
34:0137
MATTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS
Councilman Harbicht noted that he would address the matter of
the peacock problem at a later meeting.
- Councilman Lojeski suggested, in reference to the property
maintenance problems due to absent Asian property owners,
perhaps the Arcadia Chinese Association could help get
information out in their newsletter to their members. He
realized the problem is in finding the property owners,
especially those who have left the country. Councilman
Harbicht noted that the Chinese Association helped through
their newsletter when new residents were cutting down the
trees, by explaining to their members that Arcadians frown on
this practice. The City Attorney added that it would
definitely help to secure the cooperation of the Asian
community and the City has on occasion asked for their help
in communicating to relatives overseas who purchased property
in Arcadia and then left the property untended while they
returned to their country. The City Manager suggested that
a letter over the Mayor's signature could be drafted to the
President of the Association asking for their assistance both
in getting the word out to the Chinese community and also maybe
they could offer some help in locating people. Mayor Fasching
and Councilman Margett noted that many Chinese do not know or
belong to the Chinese Association. Councilman Margett
suggested that real estate people in the City could help or
if an escrow were placed in Arcadia for an Arcadia property
purchase a clause could be added to the escrow papers. Mayor
Fasching asked the City Attorney to report back to Council on
the possibility of adding this information or clause to escrow
papers.
In response to Councilman Lojeski' s inquiry, the Planning
Director responded that although the A.A. Matthews building
is not unreinforced masonry construction, it was damaged in
the June 28, 1991 earthquake and cannot be occupied until it
has been repaired. The Planning Director will check on the
status of the building and report back to Council.
Councilman Lojeski requested that an item be placed in the next
City Newsletter asking that residents of Arcadia be aware of
the mosquito problems related to sitting or stagnant water and
the like. All residents should abate these kinds of condi tions
on their own property.
Councilman Lojeski noted that the County has been cleaning up
the flood control debris area, which is routinely done. The
residents in the area were not notified in advance of the
cleanup that County would be moving dirt and silt and removing
trees. Councilman Lojeski suggested that County Supervisor
Antonovich be informed of Arcadia's concern for the
preservation of trees, and in particular the live oak trees.
Councilman Ciraulo requested that staff check out two
properties on Foothill Boulevard across from Ralph's Market,
eas t of Paco' s Restaurant for property maintenance conditions.
On these two properties, one of which has a "For Sale" sign,
the weeds are overgrown, a fence is down, doors kicked in and
windows broken.
Mayor Fasching called for a Closed Session to follow this
meeting as allowed for under Government Code Section 54957,
with Council and the City Attorney in attendance, to discuss
a personnel matter.
"I would like to close the meeting this evening in honor of
Phyllis Parker, who was born on November 20, 1920. She
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graduated from the University of Redlands in 1942 with a major
in Social Services and is listed in the "Who's Who in United
States Colleges and Universities." Phyllis actively
participated on the PTA Board of Directors at Highland Oaks,
First Avenue, Foothills Junior High and Arcadia High School.
_ She was a youth leader for 18 years at the Church of the Good
Shepherd and she also helped to organize and establish the
Kathy Kredel Nursery School at the Methodist Hospital. She
served as the Executive Director of the Arcadia Child Health
Council since 1960 and in 1985 was honored for not missing a
board meeting in 25 years. She also served as the Volunteer
Campership Chairman for the Arcadia Community Council since
1971. Phyllis earned many awards and honors, among them
Arcadia Citizen of the Year in 1971, Soroptomist Woman of
Distinction Award in 1981, and the Golden Apple Award from the
Northwest San Gabriel Valley Administrators Association in
1986. Phyllis passed away on April 27, 1992, and is survived
by her husband Jim, three daughters and eight grandchildren. . . I
think we all knew Phyllis Parker."
At 10:35 p.m. the City Council entered a CLOSED SESSION,
RECONVENED AND ADJOURNED AT 12:10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Tuesday,
May 12, 1992, in the Conference Room of the Council Chambers
for a STUDY SESSION, and to conduct the business of the Council
and Arcadia Redevelopment Agency and any Closed Session
necessary to discuss personnel, litigation an evaluation of
properties.
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