HomeMy WebLinkAboutMARCH 17,1998
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CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS ARE AUDIO AND VIDEO TAPE RECORDED AND ON FILE IN THE OFFICE OF
THE CITY CLERK
MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA
and the
ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
,
REGULAR MEETING
MARCH 17, 1998
The City Council and the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency met in a Regular Meeting on
Tuesday, March 17, 1997, at 6:00 p,m, in the Conference Room of the City Council
Chambers.
ROLL CALL: PRESENT: Council members Chang, Kovacic, Kuhn, and Young
ABSENT: Mayor Harbicht
It was MOVED by Councilmember Young, seconded by Councilmember Kuhn and
CARRIED to EXCUSE the absence of Mayor Harbicht.
1,
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
None,
2,
CLOSED SESSION
2a,
OrreJ. '10
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (c) to discuss the initiation of litigation
(two cases),
2b,
() "0 - YO
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956,9 (a) to confer with legal counsel
regarding the cases of Degroot and Said vs Arcadia,
2c,
o rroJ -(0
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956,8 to confer with the City's negotiator
regarding a potential lease (price and teons of payment) between the City and American
Golf Corporation (Kevin Robert et. al.) applicable to the Arcadia Par 3 Golf Course at
620 East Live Oak Avenue in the City of Arcadia, (This item was not discussed at the
Closed Session.)
At 6:04 p,m, the City Council RECESSED to the Closed Session and RECONVENED
the Regular Meeting in the Council Chambers at 7:00 p,m.
INVOCATION Reverend Ron Fraker, Victory Chapel of the Foursquare Gospel
PLEDGE OF
ALLEGIANCE Don Penman, Deputy City Manager/Director of Development Services
ROLL CALL PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Agency/Council Members Chang, Kovacic, Kuhn, and Young
Agency/Council Member Harbicht
It was MOVED by Agency/Council Member Young, seconded by Agency/Council
Member Kuhn and CARRIED to EXCUSE Agency Chainnan/Mayor Harbicht.
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3,
ARCADIA
PARKING
DISTRICT
COMSN,
OI';O-~O
ABSOLUTELY
INCREDIBLE
KID DAY
4,
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PRESENTATIONS
I
Mayor Pro tem Kovacic and Councilmember Young, Council liaison to the Arcadia
Parking District Commission, presented the Mayor's Certificate of Commendation to
commission members Dave Freeman, Harvey Hyde, James Kuhn, and Gilbert Stromsoe
in appreciation for their efforts on behalf of the City. Councilmember Young stated, in
part, that the commission members are downtown business owners and are responsible
for ensuring the maintenance and upkeep of parking lots in the downtown area,
Mayor Pro tem Kovacic-. presented a proclamation declaring March 19, 1998 as
Absolutely Incredible Kid Day to Myra Barefoot, Campfire Council of the Foothills
representative, Arcadia Council PTA President Kathy Kimball stated, in part, that the
PTA joins the City and the Campfire Council in celebrating Absolutely Incredible Kid Day
and presented a proclamation to the City,
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM STAFF REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
, City Attorney Mike Miller announced that during the Closed Session Meeting this date
items 2a and 2b were discussed; item 2c was not discussed,
Staff stated two (2) transmittals were received regarding agenda item 7a; a letter from
David W. Cheng suggesting changes to the proposal, and a petition of support from the
Arcadia Business Association and the First Avenue merchants. Council received copies
of both documents
5, QUESTIONS FROM CITY COUNCIU REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS
Agency/Council Member Young requested clarification for abbreviations used in the staff I
report for item 6a,
ORD, & RES.
READ BY TITLE It was MOVED by Councilmember Chang, seconded by Councilmember Young and
ONLY CARRIED that ordinances and resolutions be read by title only and that the reading in
full be WAIVED,
6.
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND
THE ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
6a.
NORTHWEST Economic Development Administrator Peter Kinnahan presented the staff report stating,
CORNER in part, that in October 1997 the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency (ARA) selected
PROJECT - Stonebridge Company to develop the 4-acre Northwest Corner Site (Huntington Drive
HTG, & 2ND and Second Avenue) for two (2) hotels; a Hilton Garden Inn and a Marriott Fairfield
AVE. Suites, The subsequent Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) was
(Stonebridge) presented for consideration, this date.
Companies -
Hilton Garden Health and Safety Code Sections 33430 through 33433 require that the Agency and
Inn/Fairfield Council conduct a joint public hearing concerning the proposed sale of Agency land for
Suites) development and make certain findings regarding the proposed site disposition and
development. Included in the submitted DDA are details of the proposed land use,
DDAlNEG, physical improvements, financial terms of the Agreement, projected revenue stream to
DECLARJ both the City and Agency, and how the project will help alleviate blight and address the
DESIGN goals of the Redevelopment Plan. The proposed development includes a 62,500 square I
(APPROVED) foot, 4-story; 124 room Hilton Garden Inn and a 48,100 square foot, 4-story, 84 room
o ~ ~ to -: '1~Marriott Fairfield Suites hotels which will be a very significant addition to the City, The
agreed upon sale price of the site to Stonebridge was $12,80/sq, ft, for a total of
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$2,221,594, Expected revenues from the project to the Redevelopment Agency will be
between $80,000 and $100,000 annually in the form of increased tax increments; and
between $461,000 and $483,000 to the City in annual revenues (which include the
Transient Occupancy Tax, Sales Tax and Business License fees), The total annual
income to the Agency and the City was estimated to be between $550,000 and
$600,000, It was approximated that construction will generate 200 jobs, and the
completed project will generate 50 jobs,
The Agency purchased the property in 1989 for approximately $5,050,442, At the time
of the purchase the r~al estate market was high, the land had buildings and
improvements; there were relocation expenses for businesses and residents on the
subject property, and decline of land values from the economic recession were factors
involving the approximately $3,000,000 difference between the purchase price and the
sale price to the developer.
I
The Agency will be required to extend utilities to certain business properties on Santa
Clara Street as a result of an alley vacation; the total costs are estimated to be $50,000,
From the land sale proceeds the Agency will net out $25,000 which will be the Agency's
contribution towards utility relocation; this amount will be deducted from the purchase
price, Stonebridge will complete this work as part of their development responsibility,
The firm that marketed this site, Hayes and Company, conveyed to the City that they
were willing to take a reduction in their commission for their work on this site, Normally
their commission would have been five (5%) percent, which would have amounted to
$111,000; they are willing to accept $70,000, The net sales price of the subject property
is $2,086,764. By amortizing the estimated annual income of between $550,000 to
$600,000 the City and the Agency will receive from .this development, it will take
between six (6) and seven (7) years to recoup the investment.
Mr. James D. Williams the Agency's redevelopment consultant completed a reuse
analysis and stated that the purchase price to be paid by Stonebridge Company is
reasonable based upon comparable properties and sales in the area, The amount to be
paid by Stonebridge was the highest offer received by the City and the Agency for a two
(2) hotel project.
Stonebridge will proceed under the proposed DDA with a sixty (60) day due diligence
period; during that time the developer will conduct further studies, file for a Tentative
Parcel Map (TPM), and file for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). One of the
modifications the developer will request will be a modification for parking which will be
handled during the CUP period, The developer will also be requesting a variance on the
building code requirement of the Sound Transmission Classification (STC) for interior
walls, If all progresses as anticipated permits should be issued in July or August 1998,
construction beginning in October, and completion being late fall or early winter 1999.
The developer will also be required to contribute ($17,500) toward the share of cost for a
traffic mitigation fund, The traffic study completed by their consultant and reviewed by
the City's consultant indicated there will be an increase in traffic of about ten (10%)
percent at the comer of Santa Anita Avenue and Santa Clara Street, other modifications
at other comers,
Pursuant to State law, notice of the proposed Negative Declaration and of the public
hearing have been published and documents have been made available for public
inspection, The developer has submitted the required deposit of $50,000,
I
For the record Mr. Kinnahan then read the titles of Resolution No, ARA-181 and
Resolution No, 6042.
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Agency/Council Member Kuhn stated, as a matter of record, that she would be removing I
herself from discussion and abstain from voting on this project due to a building in the '
near vicinity of the subject property owned by her husband,
In response to Agency/Council Member Chang's inquiry staff responded that the
developer will be requesting a modification of parking requirements through the CUP
process; the Community Development Division is aware of this forthcoming request and
has no problem with the request. However, the Planning Commission will make the final
determination on that matter. Staff also verified that all thirteen (13) items listed on the
Schedule of Performancll list to have taken place prior to the public hearing have
occurred,
Gary Rohr, President of Stonebridge Companies based in Denver, Colorado stated, in
part, that the company owns, operates and develops hotels; to date they have developed
and own and operate over 30 hotel projects. Discussions have taken place between the
developer, the Agency staff and the City regarding size, architecture and bUilding
materials for the project. The hotels will be business class-type with on-site restaurants.
Mr, Rohr introduced other members of his development team, Bill Fortier, Vice President
of Hilton Hotels; Mark Wineberger, Director of Development, Stonebridge Companies;
and Mohammed Koshani, RBF (civil engineer); all available to answer questions
regarding the project.
Bill Fortier, Vice President, Hilton Hotels addressed the Council regarding the proposed
hotel configurations, amenities and parking needs,
In response to Mayor Pro tem Kovacic's question regarding the effect on the DDA a
denial of the parking modification request would have stating, in part, that if during the I
Due Diligence period of sixty (60 ) days the developer introduces evidence his costs will
increase by more than five (5%) percent, the developer can request assistance from the
Agency, If the Agency can provide the assistance needed, the project will continue, If
the Agency cannot provide the assistance, then the developer can withdraw from the
DDA and the deposit is returned,
Mayor Pro tem Kovacic OPENED the public hearing,
Lyle Wilson, Arcadia resident commented, in part, on the City's purchase price of the
property, the proposed sale price, and his concems regarding the City's retum on the
investment, the length of time to realize financial retum and marketing of the property,
Economic Development Administrator Kinnahan addressed Mr. Wilson's concems
explaining how the return calculations were made, the length of time it took to acquire all
of the properties at this site, the problems of marketing the property,
In response to Agency/Council Member Chang's inquiry as to the condition of the area
prior to the Agency acquiring it, staff responded that there were 12 ownerships which
consisted of an AT & S,F, railroad yard, the G & S Towing yard, a house used for
pesticide storage, a cabinet shop, several residences, a heating business, a
manufacturing storage yard, and a parking lot. In general the area was considered
blighted,
It was MOVED by Council/Agency Member Young, seconded by Council/Agency
Member Chang and CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
I
Council/Agency Member Chang commented that he felt this would be a good investment
for the City with recouping all costs for the subject property in six (6) to seven (J) years;
that consideration should also be given to the fact that this was a blighted area and these
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improvements will benefit not only the immediate area, but the city as a whole; and the
number of jobs (both temporary and permanent) this project will generate, With all
things considered, he felt the project should move fOlWard,
RESOLUTION It was MOVED by Agency/Council Member Chang, seconded by Agency/Council
NO. ARA-181 Member Young and CARRIED on a roll call vote as follows that the Redevelopment
(ADOPTED) Agency ADOPT Resolution No. ARA-181, entitled: "A RESOLUTION OF THE ARCADIA
o G 80 - (' I(b ~Eg~~~~~~o~0~T~E~~~ ::~~g~~~GS1L~~~~;~6~~Tg~A~6~:v~~~~~~~~
OF CERTAIN PROPERTY AND APPROVING A CERTAIN DISPOSITION AND
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE ARCADIA
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND STONEBRIDGE COMPANIES (HILTON GARDEN
INN/FAIRFIELD SUITES BY MARRIOTT PROJECl)."
RESOLUTION
NO, 6042
(ADOPTED)
OG'fo - l. '16
AYES: Agency Members Chang, Young and Kovacic
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Agency Member Kuhn
ABSENT: Agency Member Harbicht
It was MOVED by Council member Chang, seconded by Councilmember Young and
CARRIED on a roll call vote as follows that the City Council ADOPT Resolution No,
6042, entitled: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA
APPROVING A CERTAIN DISPOSITION AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BY AND
BETWEEN THE ARCADIA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND STONEBRIDGE
COMPANIES (HILTON GARDEN INN/FAIRFIELD SUITES BY MARRIOTT PROJECl),"
AYES: Councilmembers Chang, Young and Kovacic
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Councilmember Kuhn
ABSENT: Councilmember Harbicht
It was MOVED by Agency Member Young, seconded by Agency Member Kovacic and
CARRIED on a roll call vote as follows that the Redevelopment Agency conceptually
APPROVE the project site plan, elevations and landscaping plan as depicted on the
plans subject to City Manager/Executive Director approval of signage and final
landscape plans, and approval of any minor revisions,
AYES: Agency Members Chang, Young and Kovacic
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Agency Member Kuhn
ABSENT: Agency Member Harbicht
ADJOURNMENT The meeting of the Arcadia Redevelopment Agency ADJOURNED to April 7, 1998 at
7:00 p.m.
7,
7a,
T A 98-001
CBD ZONE
SIGN REG,
(APPROVED)
OS'?r).(.,-:
tJ () ,{U^ ,{."
THE CITY COUNCIL RECONVENED,
PUBLIC HEARING
Community Development Administrator Donna Butler presented the staff report stating,
in part, that in August 1997 the City Council and the Planning Commission conducted a
walking tour of the downtown area and as a result the City Council requested that the
Planning Commission review the current Central Business District (CBD) zoning
regulations to determine if any of the regulations should be changed and to make
recommendations for changes, After holding four (4) study sessions the Planning
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Commission's recommendations were forwarded to the City Council on December 16, I
1997 at which time the City Council directed staff to proceed with a text amendment. '
The text amendment proposed changes primarily related to uses, signage and outdoor
displays and amending the commercial sign regulations relating to window signs and
banners and adding sections relating to flags and portable signs,
A public hearing was held before the Planning Commission on March 10, After
considering testimony from the public, the Planning Commission recommended approval
of Text Amendment 98-001,
'.
The proposed changes set forth in Exhibit 1 of the staff report included amendments to
the CBD codes relating to uses, signage, outdoor displays and promotional devices, In
addition the text amendment included changes and additions to the CPD-2, C-1 and C-2
zone relating to portable signs, window signs, temporary banners, pennants and
streamers, flags, outdoor displays and promotional devices,
Exhibit 2 of the staff report contained several letters submitted to the City expressing
concem regarding the regulation permitting only specified "retail" businesses and
financial institutions within the front one-third (1/3) of the ground floor area of buildings
fronting on Huntington Drive,
The Planning Commission in its consideration, discussed the restriction of retail uses
along Huntington Drive, It was the consensus of the Commission, that the regulations
have only been in effect for approximately a year and a half and that there has not been
adequate time to gauge the effectiveness of the code, They noted that there is
considerable development taking place in the downtown area and that it was premature
to change the code at this time, The Planning Commission did acknowledge that the I
code can be amended at a later date if it is determined that the "retail only. requirement
along Huntington Drive is too restrictive,
The Planning Commission's recommendation included minor changes regarding uses
subject to a conditional use permit. In addition the Commission discussed amending the
"Allowable Area for Identification" of the sign regulations,
Major changes proposed in Text Amendment. 98-001 simplify sections relating to land
use which let to misinterpretation of the code, Currently the CBD zone prohibits any use
but retail in the front one.third (1/3) of the ground floor area of buildings along Huntington
Drive and First Avenue, except if a building is specifically designed for office use, The
proposed revisions do not change this requirement but clarify the existing wording for
"Retail Uses",
A new section "Consumer Services" has been added, Uses identified in this Section are
not considered "retail" and would not be allowed in the front one-third (1/3) of the ground
floor area along Huntington Drive and First Avenue,
Revisions and additions have been made to both the CBD regulations as well as the
general commercial signage requests, Portable signs have been better defined in the
CBD zone and "A" frame signs will now be allowed as long as they are prOfessionally
designed and will now be permitted in the other commercial zones subject to the
standards set forth, Currently temporary window signs are permitted for a maximum of
thirty (30) cumulative days per year. The proposed changes will allow temporary window
signs sixty (60) cumulative days per year. The time period for temporary banners has I
been extended from thirty (30) days to sixty (60) days per year with a requirement that
any single display period not exceed thirty (30) days and that there be two (2) weeks
interval between times during which the banner is displayed, The code has never
allowed pennants, streamers and other attention attracting displays, A section has been
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specifically added which addresses this issue, A section has been added to allow
decorator-type flags that do not contain commercial messages in text form, Sections
regarding outdoor uses, sales or display of merchandise have been amended to be more
flexible, Currently outdoor displays are prohibited in the C-1, CPD-1 and C-2 zones,
The CBD zone allows outdoor displays for antique shops and flower shops only located
along Huntington Drive and First Avenue. The regulations have been amended to allow
outdoor displays in all commercial zones as long as they do not include merchandise
typically for sale on the premises except for florist and antique shops, Promotional
devices such as balloons will be allowed subject to the regulations set forth,
'.
Miss Butler responded to a question from Councilmember Chang stating, in part, that
CPD-1 is Commercial Planned Development; the only area currently zoned as such is
the area east of Second Avenue on the north and south side of Huntington Drive, This
area is currently fully developed, The proposed zoning changes will allow more flexibility
particularly relating to banners, outdoor displays and portable signs. In response to
Council member Young's inquiry regarding monitoring of time periods in which the extra
banners will be displayed, Miss Butler stated that a special no.fee permit will be required
for the banners,
Miss Butler explained the rationale and goal for the regulations regarding outdoor
displays "not including merchandise typically for sale on the premises except for florist
and antique shops" is for a merchant to bring attention to their business, but to not
display their merchandise on the sidewalk, Displaying merchandise on the sidewalk
reduces the aesthetic environment. Not permitting items, particularly with price tags, to
be placed outside will also eliminate the exterior areas from being considered as part of
the retail space,
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Miss Butler also explained there has been much discussion regarding the restriction for
ground floor use for retail businesses and such a restriction encourages pedestrian
traffic; office uses do not generally generate the same type of traffic, She also reiterated
information from the staff report that stated that the regulations have been in effect for a
short time and need to be given more time before consideration is given to amend this
section of the code.
Mayor Pro tem Kovacic OPENED the public hearing,
Fave Stabler, owner of 32 & 34 E, Huntington Drive recommended that Council not
adopt staffs recommendation regarding uses for downtown. She stated that her property
in the downtown area has been vacant for more than six (6) months and she has not
been able to market it as "retail"; inquiries have come from such businesses as office
services, and finance companies. She feels the way the ordinance is written will cause
more vacancies and will not work; the area is not designed for retail. She also stated
that she felt that the character of Huntington Drive and First Avenue are very different
and should not be dealt with in the same manner.
Penny SDeer owner of Finishing Touch commented, in part, that the ordinance wordage
regarding outdoor displays is too limiting, Outdoor displays have been done properly in
other cities; Arcadia should take another look at this matter before making its decision,
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Garland Roberson, Sullivan's Paint, 134 E, Huntington Drive representing the Arcadia
Business Association commented, in part, that the document submitted on behalf of the
downtown merchants contains fifty-three (53) merchant signatures and a letter from Ed
Sullivan (owner of Mr. Roberson's building) requesting Council to maintain the current
retail zoning requirements on Huntington Drive and First Avenue. Mr. Roberson stated
he has observed that there are only two (2) vacant locations on First Avenue compared
to approximately eight (8) a year ago, He felt that the ARA's facade assistance program
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utili;zed by many downtown merchants is responsible for the current momentum the I"
merchants are experiencing. The upcoming Farmer' Market was designed to help the
property owners by bringing in a greater influx of pedestrian traffic which may attract
more retail stores to the Downtown area,
Mr. Roberson responded to questions from Council stating, in part; that with the costs of
advertising being so prohibitive merchants rely on passing traffic for the success of their
business; traffic on Huntington Drive is greater than on First Avenue, He also stated that
the ABA in not supportive of outdoor display of merchandise, however attention getting
diSPlays of items not normally for sale is helpful.
Richard Giors from Hortense First Avenue Florist thanked the Council for their support of
local merchants with the Downtown 2000 project. He felt it is too soon to change the
retail zoning requirements. The zoning should be maintained for a longer time period; if
need be it can be revisited again in a few years.
Joel Ryder, Ryder Insurance Services, commented that his business is in an expansion
mOde and would like to relocate to the City of Arcadia, He made an offer to rent
property on Huntington Drive; however, since his business is not considered "retail" they
were not able to rent the space, His business relies on the public, would enjoy the
pedestrian traffic, and would be bringing jobs to the City,
It was MOVED by Councilmember Young, seconded by Council member Kuhn and
CARRIED to CLOSE the public hearing.
Council member Young commented that she felt this project should be continued as
planned; to change now would not be beneficial. Her vote would be in favor of the staff
recommendation,
Council member Kuhn concurred with Mrs, Young, but also stated that Huntington Drive
may never become total retail due to its arterial flow of traffic. Time needs to be
employed to see the effect of such things as the Fanner's Market. The program needs
to be left in place,
Community Development Administrator Donna Butler clarified that the definition of
"retail" had been revisited and updated in the proposed changes to the zoning
regulations, thus avoiding further confusion, Miss Butler also explained changes in the
listings of acceptable retail stores and businesses in the zoning regulations,
"grandfathering" of existing non-conforming businesses, and how an insurance business
is categorized,
Councilmember Chang commented that he felt the downtown area is now revitalized I
with more businesses coming and that the retail use requirements should be maintained
which would further the development of the downtown area.
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Mayor Pro tem Kovacic stated that endorsement by the ABA, the Planning Commission
and the Planning Department has impressed him, However, he is concemed that
individual situations may result in hardship; revisiting the matter in a year for
modification to the retail or CUP requirements or adding a hardship clause may be
necessary and helpful. Mr. Kovacic agreed with the text amendment and ordinance as
presently proposed,
ORDINANCE It was MOVED by Councilmember Young, seconded by Councilmember Kuhn and
NO, 2085 CARRIED on a roll call vote as follows to APPROVE Text Amendment 98-001 as
(INTRODUCED) proposed and INTRODUf;:E Ordinance No, 2085, entitled: "AN ORDINANCE OF THE
0" 80 _ 6~ CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARCADIA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING AND ADDING
CERTAIN SECTIONS TO THE CBD (CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT) ZONING
06c{O - ~ REGULATIONS RELATING TO USES, SIGNAGE AND OUTDOOR DISPLAYS;
AMENDING THE COMMERCIAL SIGN REGULATIONS RELATING TO WINDOW
SIGNS AND BANNERS, AND ADDING SECTIONS TO THE COMMERCIAL SIGN
REGULATIONS RELATING TO OUTDOOR DISPLAYS, PROMOTIONAL SALES AND
ADVERTISING DEVICES, FLAGS AND PORTABLE SIGNS (TEXT AMENDMENT 98-
001)."
7b,
FRANCHISE
& AGRMT,
RENEWAL -
(TCI Cable-
vision)
(CONTINUED
TO 4-7-98)
O~ (0 -...;;0
8,
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Chang, Kuhn, Young and Kovacic
None
Councilmember Harbicht
Community Relations Officer Cindy Rowe presented the staff report stating, in part, that
due to the upcoming merger between TCI and Century Communications, a number of
issues were raised by TCI regarding the proposed Cable Television Franchise renewal.
TCI has requested that this item be removed from the agenda and continued to April 7,
1998 to address those issues, Staff concurs with the request in order to ensure that all
language in the document is thoroughly reviewed in the best interest of the City.
Staff consulted with legal counsel who concurred with the request for continuance,
Mayor Pro tem Kovacic OPENED the public hearing.
No one came forward to speak in favor or against this matter.
It was MOVED by Council member Kuhn, seconded by Councilmember Chang and
CARRIED on a roll call vote as follows to CONTINUE the Public Hearing on the renewal
of the Cable Television Franchise and Agreement with Cable vision of Arcadia/Sierra
Madre, Inc, (TCI) to April 7, 1998,
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Chang, Kuhn, Young and Kovacic
None
Councilmember Harbicht
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Gino Roncelli, 1250 Ramona Road reguested reopening of the Library on Fridays for the
remainder of this fiscal year. Mr. Roncelli stated, in part, that Council could authorize an
expenditure of $15,000 and attach a requirement that the funds be utilized specifically in
this manner. He asked that this item be placed on the next Council meeting agenda,
City Attorney Miller commented on the Brown Act requirements for piacing items on
future agendas, Mayor Pro tem Kovacic thanked Arcadia High School for extending
their Friday hours at the school library to help accommodate the community's needs,
Councilmember Chang commented that without money the Library Board cannot make a
decision to reopen the Library on Fridays; Council must make the decision regarding
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money. His suggestion was to put the item on the next agenda for consideration, I
Councilmember Kuhn questioned the discussion of this matter being out of order;
perhaps discussing it at another point of the agenda would be more appropriate, City
Attorney Miller concurred that it should be discussed under Matters From Elected
Officials, Item 9.
Lvle Wilson,' Arcadia resident concurred with Mr. Roncelli's request for reopening of the
Library on Fridays stating that he felt this would be an excellent way for the City to spend
$15,000, Mr. Wilson also commented and further expanded, in part, on his earlier
comments regarding the r.lorthwest Comer Project, the ARA and City's investment in this
project, recouping funds, eminent domain, and wise investment of City funds,
Mr, Wilson also commented on the Youth Master Plan and a recent newspaper article in
the Orange County Register that outlined how a comprehensive govemment program
specifically dealt with the youth and targeted single mothers with children.
Rob Cunninaham, President of the City's maintenance workers union, AFSCME, Local
2264, commented, in part, that an intemal promotion for the building services foreman
position was announced March 4, 1998 which resulted in an employee being transferred
from the General Services section to the Building Services section. This transfer has
affected the least senior employee in the Building Services section being "bumped" into
a lower position with a $400 per month pay reduction, Mr. Cunningham commented on
that employee's exemplary job performance, previous history of being "bumped", and
that employee acquiring additional schooling and training, Mr. Cunningham requested
Council to consider "Y-Rating" the employee's salary at the higher position until the
salary of the lower position would catch up or the employee is promoted, Council
r!lquested staff provide a report on this matter at the next Council meeting,
I
Gail Marshall, 2300 block Lee Avenue commented, in part, that as part of her campaign
for a seat on the City Council she has received feedback from Arcadians regarding their
concerns. One of the concems expressed was the condition of street paving in the area
north of the race track, Mrs, Marshall announced that upon contact with Dave Rader, the
City's Street Supervisor, she was informed that resurfacing of these streets was delayed
due to the EI Nino rains and is now scheduled to be completed in the near future,
Mrs. Marshall also stated she was pleased to see that the retail zoning requirements are
being modified,
Mrs. Marshall also shared sections of a newspaper redevelopment reform article and
made comments.
Georae Faschina, 1451 Oaklawn Road commented, in part, that he agreed with retuming
the Library to its normal operating hours, Mr. Fasching also commented on property
taxes and the State govemment's apportionment and raiding of such tax, He
recommended that Council draft a resolution to support possible legislation to restore the
City's property tax revenues to prior levels and call on the neighboring San Gabriel
Valley cities to pass similar resolutions,
Kathv Kimball, 1648 Rodeo Road, Arcadia Council PTA President commented, in part,
that the PTA has enthusiastically endorsed Measure A at the April 14 General Municipal
Election, The PTA feels it is important for Arcadians to unite to implement the -Youth
Master Plan, restore budgetary cuts, and protect the City's fiscal soundness by not
continually invading reserves to balance the budget. Mrs, Kimball commented on other
City services that could be implemented or restored with the passage of Measure A.
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9.
CHANG
Arcadia
Travelers
Club
Risk
Management
Library Hours
YOUNG
Library
Founclation
Support
KUHN
Property Tax
Revenue
Arcadia H, S,
Telethon
40:0068
Mickev Senal, 1135 Fallen Leaf commented, in part, that he feels it is critical for
Arcadians to carefully read the Youth Master Plan to understand that it is a philosophy, a
partnership between parents, the school district and the City Council. The partnership
would enhance program activities for children on educational and recreational levels at
all school sites, This is a long-range plan that would keep children occupied, provide
students with better educational opportunities, Implementation of the Youth Master Plan
would avert the City from having to do "preventive maintenance" when problems with the
City's youth arise in the future,
Gartand Roberson, Sulliv;an's Paint, 134 E, Huntington Drive, announced that the
upcoming Farmer's Market which will sell food related items begins Saturday, April 17,
7:30 a,m, until noon on First Avenue between Alia and Califomia Streets,
Advertisement will include banners across Huntington Drive and Baldwin Avenue,
MATTERS FROM ELECTED OFFICIALS
Councilmember Chang commented on the current travel policy for the Arcadia Travelers
Club stating, in part, that due to liability concems the policy prohibits the club from going
on cruises, traveling by air, or traveling for more than ten (10) days. Dr, Chang stated he
fell this policy created an inconvenience for the members and the restriction was
unreasonable. He compared travels of this club with the City's friendship club and
suggested the liability could be assumed by companies providing transportation for such
trips, Council requested staff study this item for possible revision of the policy,
Councilmember Chang commented on the City's risk management program in the areas
of accident prevention training and immediate accident analysis, To exhibit how well the
program has been working Dr. Chang compared the number of workers compensation
cases and their costs to the City in the fiscal years 1993-94 and 1997-98,
Councilmember Chang stated, in part, that he would like to have the Library reopened on
Fridays right away, rather than waiting for voter approval of Measure A, He has been
receiving citizen complaints since the implementation of the Friday closure, and
suggested this item be agendized, Discussion by Council ensued, with a directive that
staff submit a report regarding the costs involved for reinstating Library hours on Fridays
and Sundays,
Council member Young commented, in part, about Arcadian's response to the f1yer\
enclosed in the January and February water bills supporting the Library Foundation's \
request for monetary contributions, On behalf of the City, Mrs, Young thanked those
participating in the program and the Library Foundation for their work in raising funds for
much of the fumiture and equipment used in the Library,
Councilmember Kuhn commented, in part, that she agrees that the City should
aggressively pursue the retum of the City's portion of property tax revenues from the
State, She also commented that her experience that the State legislators will listen more
readily to the voters; it will probably take a strong grassroots effort for the City to recoup
these funds,
Councilmember Kuhn stated she was impressed with the energy, talent and final results
of the first "Connect to the Future Telethon" at Arcadia High School on Saturday,
March 14,
11
3/17/98
Economic
Development
KOVACIC
Mayor's
Prayer
Breakfast
Santa Anita/
MediTrust
Water Dept.
Sure Pay
Program
:-
What's
Brewing With
The Mayor
Arcadia
Beautiful
Comsn,
Arcadia H, S,
Telethon
10.
'.,
40:0069
Councilmember Kuhn announced that Santa Anita Fashion Park has signed a lease with
Eddie Bauer to locate in the mall, The new restaurants, hotels and stores coming to
Arcadia will not generate revenue until they are up and running; TGIF restaurant will not
be generating money until this summer, the Extended Stay Hotel is expected to open
this fall, Todai in early May, and Eddie Bauer during the summer. If a Santa Anita
project is approved, financial benefits will not be seen until the year 2000, Mrs, Kuhn
commented that the City needs to utilize current revenues and at the same time plan for
what is expected for the future,
I
'.
Mayor Pro tern Kovacic reminded Arcadian's of the 24th Annual Mayor's Prayer
Breakfast to be held on Friday, April 1 0, 7:00 a.m, at the Arboretum, The proceeds will
benefit the Campership Program and the RotaI)' Club's Salute the Seniors Program,
Reservations must be made by April 3
Mayor Pro tern Kovacic announced that Santa Anita/MediTrust delivered the signed Cost
Compensation Agreement with the required check to the City this date" . The agreement
will be on the April 7, 1998 Council Agenda for final approval.
Mr. Kovacic reminded Arcadians about the Water Department's Sure Pay Program that
allows customers to have their water bill payment automatically deducted from their
checking account which will eliminate the problems of checks being lost in the mail,
ensuring payment while customers are out of town, and saves the cost of a stamp, In
the first three (3) months of the program over 650 people have joined,
Mayor Pro tern Kovacic announced he will be substituting for Mayor Harbicht at the
"What's Brewing With The Mayor" coffee on Friday, March 20th at 9:30 a.m. at the
Community Center.
I
Mayor Pro tern Kovacic read an announcement that the Arcadia Beautiful Commission
is now accepting nominations for the 1998 Arcadia Beautiful Awards, Nominations will
be accepted through April 1 , 1998,
Mayor Pro tern Kovacic commented on the twelve (12) hour Arcadia High SChool
"Connect to the future Telethon" on Saturday, March 14 sponsored by the Arcadia
Educational Foundation (AEF) and the Arcadia Unified School District, All schools in the
District sent participants, Mr. Kovacic gave special commendations to Executive
Producer Mr. Martin Plourde, Arcadia High School Principal, and AEF Capital Campaign
Chairman Mickey Segal. Special congratulations were given to the student emcees
Bl)'ant Romo, David Fantas, Pearl Leuong, Delphina Yun, Ana Bane~i, and Nick Lam,
Perfonnances by the students were extremely impressive, The telethon raised $50,505.
CONSENT ITEMS
10a.
MINUTES
(Mar. 3, 1998)
10b,
AWARD AWARDED a contract in the amount of $55,240.00 to W, A, Rasic Company for the
CONTRACT construction of two (2) 8-inch pressure reducing valves and a 12-inch water line
(Pressure valves replacement on Foothill Blvd., from Oakwood Avenue to First Avenue; and
& 12' waterline AUTHORIZED the City Manager and City Clerk to EXECUTE said contract in a
- Foothill Blvd.) fonn approved by the City Attorney,
00/", ;- - 'J()
fJO 97_ t;,U o{l
APPROVED the minutes of the March 3, 1998 Regular Meeting,
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3/17/98
<
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40:0070
10c,
AWARD AWARDED a contract in the amount of $148,500,00 to Montgomery Watson
CONTRACT for construction management and inspection services for the Upper Canyon Reservoir
(Const. MgmtJ and Canyon Booster Pump Station; and AUTHORIZED the City Manager to EXECUTE
Insp. Svcs,- a Professionsl Services Agreement subject to approval as to form,
Upper Canyon
Reservoir/
Booster Sta ,)
07S"0-/0
THE PRECEDING CONSENT ITEMS 1 Oa, 10b and 1 Oc APPROVED ON A MOTION BY
COUNCILMEMBER YOUNG, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER KUHN AND
CARRIED ON ROLL CALL VOTE AS FOLLOWS:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Councilmembers Chang, Kuhn, Young and Kovacic
None
Mayor Harbicht
KOVACIC Mayor Pro tern Kovacic announced that the meeting would be adjourned in memory of
(In memory of William Kelly, Sr., City Manager Bill Kelly's father. "Bill passed away last Wednesday,
Wm. Kelly, Sr) March 11, 1998, after a two year bailie with cancer, Bill and his wife of fifty-five years,
Joan, are long-time residents of the County area of Arcadia. Bill's chosen profession
was the fire service and he retired in 1978 from the Los Angeles County Fire Department
as a Captain, Among his many hobbies Bill was an avid reader and he enjoyed bUilding
things. He and his wife were also involved in a number of local civic, youth and religious
organizations, Bill is survived by his wife, Joan; brother, Michael; son, Bill; daughters,
Diane, Kathy and Sheila; and six grandchildren. On behalf of the City Council and the
City I offer our deepest condolences to Bill and his family, In lieu of flowers donations
may be made in memory of William Kelly, Sr. to USC Norris Cancer Center, 1441
Eastlake, Room 800, Los Angeles, California 90033, Again, I ask you to keep Bill Kelly
and his family in your minds on the passing of his father:
ADJOURNMENT At 9:20 p,m, the Regular Meeting of the City Council ADJOURNED to 7:00 p,m"
(Apr. 7,1998) Tuesday, April 7, 1998 in the City Council Chambers for a Regular Meeting to conduct
the business of the City Council and the Arcadia Redevelopment. Agency and any
Closed Session necessary to discuss personnel, litigation matters or evaluation of
properties,
--//~~
Robert C, Harbicht, Mayor of the City of Arcadia
ATTEST:
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3/17/98