HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/10/2015MINUTES OF ARCADIA CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2015
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Wuo called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m.
ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL
PRESENT: Council Member Beck, Chandler, Kovacic, Tay, and Wuo
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS (5 minutes per person)
Donna Perez, a resident on San Carlos Road, appeared and encouraged the City Council to
adopt a FAR (Floor Area Ratio) for residential properties.
STUDY SESSION
a. Consideration, discussion and establishment of goals and priorities for 2015.
Administrative Services Director presented the City Council with a mid -year budget
review.
• Regarding mid -year budget review, it was the consensus of the City Council to plan for
setting aside $3 million in equipment and & CIP Funds annually; also, staff to look into
OPEB Trust Fund (using PERS Reserve Fund balance).
• Regarding communications strategy, it was the consensus of the City Council to retain a
public relations firm to promote what is great about Arcadia.
The Mayor called a recess at 9:35 a.m. and reconvened at 9:50 a.m.
• Regarding Architectural Review, it was the consensus of the City Council that a
committee be formed to discuss issues; the committee should consist of up to 20
individuals, made up of developers, Architectural Review Boards, South Arcadia, and
Planning Commission; that the City Council attend, but not actively participate; and
explore clarifying codes as part of Zoning Code Update and include Resolution No.
6770.
• Regarding Economic Development and Commercial Corridors, it was the consensus of
the City Council to increase code enforcement efforts; continue to consider write
downs /incentives as appropriate; and look into enterprise zones.
The City Council recessed for lunch at 12:00 p.m. and reconvened at 12:30 p.m.
Police Chief Guthrie made a presentation to the City Council regarding crime statistics;
and also discussed the new police campaign slogan "hide it — lock it — keep it" coming
out around March 1.
• Regarding support to establish a police foundation, it was the consensus of the City
Council to move forward in establishing a police foundation.
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• Regarding environmental stewardship, it was the consensus of the City Council to look
at a demonstration project for reducing water usage in medians, while maintaining the
"community landmark" feel of medians; consider environmental projects at City facilities,
be cognizant of cost /benefits; turn on Country Park fountain and place sign informing
pubic that it is recycled water.
Public Works Services Director Tait gave a presentation on the status of the water and
sewer rate study.
• Regarding water rates, it was the consensus of the City Council to propose a budget
based rate structure and to choose the more accelerated option in order to maintain
reserve levels.
• Regarding the Arcadia Beautiful Commission, it was the consensus of the City Council to
transition into committees, grandfather existing members, and create more opportunities
to volunteering.
• Regarding a new City Hall, it was the consensus of the City Council to begin setting
aside available funds for a new City Hall building.
• Regarding off track betting laws at Santa Anita Race Track, it was the consensus of the
City Council to take actions to modernize the City's share of betting handle; and engage
a lobbyist, if necessary.
• Regarding Downtown Arcadia, it was the consensus of the City Council to issue an RFP
for the development of the City lot; and be prescriptive on City desires.
• Regarding sidewalk /landscaping on Colorado (Michillinda to Baldwin), it was the
consensus of the City Council to have staff work with the City Attorney to investigate
whether signage /ordinance prohibiting pedestrians is possible.
• Regarding signs, it was the consensus of the City Council that the code for residential
real estate signs be updated to include some "teeth "; to identify specific sizes and
numbers allowed for residential developments; and to continue enforcement efforts.
• Regarding Sunset/Michillinda (Vons Headquarters), it was the consensus of the City
Council to consider changing the zone to residential, provided it was done at the right
density.
Updates on the lights in the Santa Anita Oaks area, Parks Master Plan proposals, Library
Community Needs Assessment, City Council stipend, covered wash by Arcadia High School,
Homelessness, soundwalls, transportation system, and an update regarding off track betting
were also presented and discussed with the City Council.
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The City Council adjourned the Special Meeting at 4:30 p.m.
ATTEST:
City Cler
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