HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 09a - Special and Regular Meeting Minutes of August 18, 2020
ARCADIA CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2020
CALL TO ORDER - Mayor Chandler called the Special Meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
PRESENT: Beck, Cheng, Verlato, Tay, and Chandler
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS
City Manager Lazzaretto read into the record emails submitted for Public Comment from the
following:
April Verlato: Expressed her support for the proposed Huntington Plaza project, and her concerns
regarding parking.
Steve Rhee: Provided a list of concerns regarding the proposed Huntington Plaza project.
CLOSED SESSION
a. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(2) to confer with legal
counsel regarding anticipated litigation: two (2) cases.
The City Council recessed and reconvened to Closed Session at 6:33 p.m.
Council Member Verlato noted for the record that she has a conflict of interest regarding Closed
Session Items b and c because she owns property in close proximity to the proposed project area;
and indicated that she will recuse herself from participation and discussion.
b. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 to confer with Real Property
Negotiators.
Property: City Parking Lots (Assessor Parcel Nos. 5773-010-900 and 901)
Agency Negotiators: City Manager Dominic Lazzaretto, Assistant City
Manager/Development Services Director Jason Kruckeberg, and City Attorney
Stephen P. Deitsch
Property Negotiators: Andy Zhang, NWI, Inc.
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
c. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (d)(2) to confer with legal
counsel regarding pending litigation: one (1) case.
No reportable action was taken on the Closed Session Items.
The Closed Session ended at 7:01 p.m.
Linda Rodriguez
Assistant City Clerk
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ARCADIA CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
TUESDAY, AUGUST 18, 2020
1. CALL TO ORDER – Mayor Chandler called the regular meeting to order at 7:06 p.m.
2. INVOCATION – Reverend Jolene Cadenbach, Arcadia Congregational Church
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Assistant City Manager/Development Services Director
Kruckeberg
4. ROLL CALL OF CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
PRESENT: Beck, Cheng, Verlato, Tay, and Chandler
ABSENT: None
5. REPORT FROM CITY ATTORNEY REGARDING CLOSED/STUDY SESSION ITEMS
Assistant City Attorney Mauer announced that prior to the regular meeting the City Council
convened in a Closed Session to discuss the three items listed on the posted agenda; he indicated
that due to a conflict of interest regarding Closed Session Items b and c, Council Member Verlato
recused herself from participation and discussion; and stated that no reportable action was taken
on the Closed Session items.
6. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION FROM CITY MANAGER REGARDING AGENDA
ITEMS
City Manager Lazzaretto noted that due to extreme heat, Southern California Edison has issued
several warnings regarding rotating electrical outages; he recommended to the City Council that
if an outage occurs during the meeting and before 8:30 p.m. that the City Council recess for the
duration of the outage and resume the meeting when power is restored; and that if the outage
occurs after 8:30 p.m., he recommended the City Council adjourn the meeting to the September
1, 2020, City Council Meeting; the City Council concurred.
Mayor Chandler requested City Manager Item 12.b be removed from discussion, and the City
Council concurred.
7. MOTION TO READ ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS BY TITLE ONLY AND
WAIVE THE READING IN FULL
A motion was made by Council Member Beck and seconded by Council Member Verlato to read
all ordinances and resolutions by title only and waive the reading in full.
8. PUBLIC HEARING
a. Resolution No. 7331 and Ordinance No. 2373 related to a Minor Use Permit, Major
Administrative Modification, Architectural Design Review, Vesting Tentative Tract Map
(82734), Development Agreement, and a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the
development of a mixed-use project with 139 residential units and 10,200 square feet
of commercial area located at 117-129 E. Huntington Drive and 124-134 Wheeler
Avenue.
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Council Member Verlato announced that she has a conflict of interest regarding Public Hearing
Item 8.a because she owns property in close proximity to the proposed project area; and indicated
that she will recuse herself from participation and discussion.
Senior Planner Torrico presented the Staff Report
Mayor Chandler opened Public Hearing Item 8.a.
Vince Chupka, Regional Director at Humphreys and Partners Architects spoke on behalf of the
Applicant; he thanked City Staff and everyone involved for their help throughout the process; he
indicated that parking issues have been addressed in the Conditions of Approval; that they will
continue to address any parking issues they encounter; and responded to Council Member Beck’s
inquiries.
Andy Willrodt, Professional Engineer at Fuscoe Engineering, Inc. responded to Council Member
Beck’s concerns regarding the performance bond; and indicated that he is not aware of a condition
on other projects for a bond that covers the completion of the entire project.
William Chenowitz, called and indicated that he does not have a problem with project; however,
expressed his concerns regarding the construction process and parking in the area.
City Manager Lazzaretto read into the record two emails submitted for Public Comment from the
following:
Steve Hayashi (submitted two emails): Regarding his support for the proposed Huntington Plaza
Mixed-use Development Project.
Paul Ricchiazzi: Regarding his support for the proposed Huntington Plaza Mixed-use
Development Project.
Mayor Chandler made a motion to close Public Hearing Item 8.a; the City Council concurred.
Resolution No. 7331 approving Minor Use Permit No. MUP 20-04, Major
Administrative Modification No. Major AM 20-11, Architectural Design Review No.
ADR 18-05, Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 19-01 (82734), and a mitigated
negative declaration for the development of a mixed-use project with 139 residential
units and 10,200 square feet of commercial area located at 117-129 E. Huntington
Drive and 124-134 Wheeler Avenue.
Recommended Action: Adopt
After City Council discussion, a motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Tay, seconded by Council
Member Beck, and carried on roll call vote to adopt Resolution No. 7331 approving Minor Use
Permit No. MUP 20-04, Major Administrative Modification No. Major AM 20-11, Architectural
Design Review No. ADR 18-05, Vesting Tentative Tract Map No. TTM 19-01 (82734), and a
mitigated negative declaration for the development of a mixed-use project with 139 residential
units and 10,200 square feet of commercial area located at 117-129 E. Huntington Drive and 124-
134 Wheeler Avenue; and amending Condition No. 6 to include that the Owner/Applicant shall
find and by means of lease make available 55 parking spaces within 500 feet of the subject site,
or within 1,000 feet if the Owner/Applicant cannot locate all 55 spaces within 500 feet with
reasonable diligence and in good faith, on a temporary basis for the general public to use.
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AYES: Tay, Beck, Cheng, and Chandler
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Council Member Verlato was recused from the vote.
Ordinance No. 2373 approving a Development Agreement with New World
International, LLC relating to the Huntington Plaza Mixed Use Project located at 117-
129 E. Huntington Drive and 124-134 Wheeler Avenue.
Recommended Action: Introduce
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Tay, seconded by Council Member Beck, and carried on
roll call vote to introduce Ordinance No. 2373 approving a Development Agreement with New
World International, LLC relating to the Huntington Plaza Mixed Use Project located at 117-129
E. Huntington Drive and 124-134 Wheeler Avenue.
AYES: Tay, Beck, Cheng, and Chandler
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Council Member Verlato was recused from the vote.
The City Council recessed and reconvened to the regular meeting at 8:46 p.m.
b. Resolution No. 7330 and Ordinance No. 2372 related to a Zone Change,
Architectural Design Review, Conditional Use Permit, Administrative Modification,
and Protected Tree Encroachment Permit with a Mitigated Negative Declaration
under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) for a new senior assisted
living facility with memory care at 1150 W. Colorado Boulevard.
Assistant Planner Quiroz presented the Staff Report.
Mayor Chandler opened Public Hearing Item 8.b.
Rick Bell a representative of Artis Senior Living, the Applicant, thanked City Staff for their support
throughout this process; he stated that Artis is a private company that develops, owns and
operates their senior living facilities; and spoke about their facilities.
In response to Council Member Beck’s inquiries, Mr. Bell explained why the 8-foot fence is
necessary; he indicated that there is a Registered Nurse and Licensed Vocational Nurse onsite
24 hours a day minimizing the emergency calls; he stated that most deliveries are made during
business hours; he spoke about the design of building; and indicated that the project will be
completed in 12 to 15 months from the beginning of construction.
In response to Council Member Verlato’s inquiry about the importance of the tower element to the
overall design, Mr. Bell explained that the tower is an integral part of the design.
Blue Rangsuebsin, called and requested the City Council address the list of questions he provided
regarding the proposed senior living facility.
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Catherine Gornto, called and expressed her concerns regarding the proposed Artis Senior Living
project; and recommended that the parking lot be placed on the Michillinda Avenue side, away
from residential uses.
City Manager Lazzaretto noted for the record that two emails were submitted for Public Comment
from the following:
Blue Rangsuebsin: Requested that the parking lot for the proposed facility be placed on the corner
of Michillinda Avenue and Colorado Boulevard.
Rancho Santa Anita Residents Association: Expressed concerns with the height of the proposed
facility and the location of the designated parking area and the potential impact on privacy of
residential neighbors.
Mr. Bell addressed comments made by callers; he indicated that there will be no utility shutdowns
during construction, and that the location of the parking lot provides more privacy than other
potential layouts;
Anna Armstrong, at Armstrong & Walker Landscape Architects addressed comments made
regarding the walls on the east and south side; she stated that the existing trees will remain and
that new trees will be provided to fill in any gaps; she also addressed comments regarding the
height of the existing trees and new trees;
In response to Council Member Beck’s inquiry, Ms. Armstrong indicated that the landscaping in
front of the wall on the south side will have a similar landscape design as the other walls.
Mr. Bell stated that no future expansions are expected; he explained why the building should not
be pushed back and why the location of the parking lot is integral to the design;
In response to Council Member Verlato’s inquiries, Mr. Bell indicated that the front entrance shall
be designated for emergency responders; and that the other emergency staged areas are required
only for truck ladder access in the event of a fire.
A motion to close the public hearing was made by Council Member Verlato, seconded by Mayor
Chandler, and seeing no objection, Mayor Chandler declared the public hearing closed.
Resolution No. 7330 approving Architectural Design Review No. ADR 18-22,
Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 19-03, Administrative Modification No. AM Minor 19-
22, and Protected Tree Encroachment No. TRE 20-04 with a Mitigated Negative
Declaration for a new senior assisted living care facility with memory care at 1150 W.
Colorado Boulevard.
Recommended Action: Adopt
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Tay, seconded by Mayor Chandler, and carried on roll call
vote to adopt Resolution No. 7330 approving Architectural Design Review No. ADR 18-22,
Conditional Use Permit No. CUP 19-03, Administrative Modification No. AM Minor 19-22, and
Protected Tree Encroachment No. TRE 20-04 with a Mitigated Negative Declaration for a new
senior assisted living care facility with memory care at 1150 W. Colorado Boulevard.
AYES: Tay, Chandler, and Cheng
NOES: Verlato
ABSTAIN: Beck
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Ordinance No. 2372 approving Zone Change No. ZC and Zoning Map Amendment to
remove the two existing zoning overlays (Architectural Design (D) Overlay Zone and
Automobile Parking (P) Overlay Zone) at 1150 W. Colorado Boulevard.
Recommended Action: Introduce
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Tay, seconded by Council Member Verlato, and carried
on roll call vote to introduce Ordinance No. 2372 approving Zone Change No. ZC 19-01 and a
Zoning Map Amendment to remove the two existing zoning overlays (Architectural Design (D)
Overlay Zone and Automobile Parking (P) Overlay Zone) at 1150 W. Colorado Boulevard.
AYES: Tay, Verlato, Beck, Cheng, and Chandler
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
9. PUBLIC COMMENTS
City Manager Lazzaretto, Assistant City Manager/Development Services Director Kruckeberg and
Deputy City Manager Bruckner read into the record emails submitted for Public Comments.
Chris Chai: Urged Arcadia residents to vote no on Proposition 16.
Andrew L.: Regarding Proposition 16, urged everyone to read Ballot Propositions Closely.
A concerned resident: Urged everyone to vote no on Proposition 16.
10. REPORTS FROM MAYOR, CITY COUNCIL AND CITY CLERK (including reports from
the City Council related to meetings attended at City expense [AB 1234]).
Council Member Beck shared a photograph of his 3-year-old and newborn granddaughters; he
spoke about the passing of Lowell Lachelt; and announced that Los Angeles County is offering rent
assistance through LA County's COVID-19 Rent Relief Program.
Council Member Cheng announced that on August 8, 2020, he attended the protest at Arcadia
County park against Proposition 16; he shared an incident that occurred during the protest; and
thanked the City Council and City Manager Lazzaretto for all they do.
Council Member Verlato thanked Council Member Cheng for his kind comments; she reminded
everyone to continue submitting public comments; she indicated that she is excited about the
Huntington Plaza and the Senior Assisted Living projects; she announced that on August 19,
2020, she is meeting with Recreation and Community Services Director Somogyi for their monthly
update regarding homelessness; on August 20, 2020, she is attending a virtual meeting with the
San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments; she wished City Clerk Glasco well; she stated that
the school year has begun; and wished Arcadia students luck.
Mayor Pro Tem Tay announced that he, Council Member Cheng, and many residents delivered
lunch boxes to the Police Department; he thanked the residents that participated; and thanked
the Fire Department and the Police Department for keeping the community safe.
Mayor Chandler stated that he is appreciative of the community; he thanked the Chinese
Community for supporting the Police and Fire Departments; and noted that the community has
changed and is always improving.
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11. CONSENT CALENDAR
a. Special and Regular Meeting Minutes of August 4, 2020.
Recommended Action: Approve
b. Resolution No. 7332 determining the amount of revenue to be raised from property
taxes for Fiscal Year 2020-21 to pay for the debt service on the 2011 and 2012 General
Obligation Bonds.
Recommended Action: Adopt
c. Partial payment for City’s share of replacement of the synthetic track at Arcadia High
School.
Recommended Action: Approve
d. Foothill Air Support Team (“FAST”) annual JPA cost in the amount of $70,521.
Recommended Action: Approve
e. Accept all work performed by Houston & Harris PCS, Inc. for the Fiscal Year 2019-20
Annual Sewer CCTV Inspections as complete.
Recommended Action: Approve
f. Accept all work performed by FS Contractors, Inc. for the Fiscal Year 2019-20 Annual
Concrete Repairs Project as complete.
Recommended Action: Approve
g. Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement with Studio Spectrum, Inc. for
Video Production and Broadcast Services for City meetings in an amount not to
exceed $61,200.
Recommended Action: Approve
It was moved by Council Member Verlato, seconded by Council Member Beck, and carried on a
roll call vote to approve Consent Calendar Items 11.a through 11.g.
AYES: Verlato, Beck, Cheng, Tay, and Chandler
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
12. CITY MANAGER
a. Consideration of withdrawal from the Foothill Workforce Development Board.
Recommended Action: Authorize the City Manager to Withdraw and Join County
Program
City Manager Lazzaretto presented the Staff Report; he noted an email submitted by Rachelle
Arizmendi recommending the City Council not withdraw from the Foothill Workforce Development
Board.
After City Council discussion a motion was made by Council Member Verlato, seconded by
Council Member Cheng, to direct City Manager Lazzaretto and Mayor Pro Tem Tay to bring back
a report for discussion at a future City Council Meeting.
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AYES: Verlato, Cheng, Beck, Tay, and Chandler
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
b. Request for commemorative naming of a City facility in honor of Carol Libby.
Recommended Action: Provide Direction
Item 12.b was pulled from the agenda and will be brought back for discussion at the September
1, 2020, City Council meeting.
c. Report, discussion, and direction regarding COVID-19.
City Manager Lazzaretto provided an update on COVID-19. No action was requested or taken.
13. ADJOURNMENT
City Manager Lazzaretto provided former Human Resources Commissioner Lowell Lachelt’s
eulogy.
The City Council meeting adjourned memory of former Human Resources Commissioner Lowell
Lachelt at 11:01 p.m. to Tuesday, September 1, 2020, 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.
Linda Rodriguez
Assistant City Clerk