CC MINS 20040203MINUTES
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 3, 2004
The meeting was called to order at 7:10 P.M. by Mayor pro tem Clark at Fred Hesse
Community Park, 29301 Hawthorne Boulevard. Roll call was answered as follows:
Roll call was answered as follows:
PRESENT: Long, Stern, Wolowicz, Mayor pro tem Clark
ABSENT: Mayor Gardiner
Also present were City Manager Les Evans; Assistant City Manager Petru; Assistant
City Attorney Carol Lynch; Director of Finance Dennis McLean; Director of Planning,
Building, and Code Enforcement Joel Rojas; Director of Public Works Dean Allison;
Senior Planner Kit Fox; Assistant to the City Manager Park; City Clerk/Administrative
Services Director Jo Purcell; and Recording Secretary Denise Bothe.
The flag salute was led by Assistant City Manager Petru.
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS: None.
RECYCLE DRAWING:
Mayor pro tem Clark announced the recycle winner for the month of January, Yola
Gerst, who will receive a check for $250, which represents a year of free refuse service.
He encouraged everyone to recycle.
CEREMONIAL MATTERS:
(1) Presentation by the Palos Verdes High School Road Warriors of their full-
sized unmanned vehicle to be entered in a nationwide contest.
Tina Bothamley provided a brief overview of the Palos Verdes High School Road
Warriors team project. She announced that Palos Verdes High School is the only high
school in the nation that qualified to participate in this challenge -- which is sponsored
by the United States Department of Defense -- to build an autonomous vehicle that will
travel from Barstow, California, to Las Vegas, Nevada, in under 10 hours. She stated
that there were some extraordinary students present at the meeting who would make a
presentation and noted that there are many others working behind the scenes to help
put this vehicle together. She highlighted the generous donations that have been
received from American Honda, EMC Corporation, and stated that there are many other
companies that have donated money or supplies for this venture. She stated that the
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February 3, 2004
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challenge will take place on March 13, 2004; that they hope to win the $1 million prize
for Palos Verdes High School; and she reiterated that this is the only high school in the
nation that qualified, competing against other schools, such as Carnegie Mellon, Cal
Tech, and other prestigious technical schools.
Chris Seide, Palos Verdes High School Road Warriors project leader for the Defense
Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), stated that the team consists of 25 core
high school students, along with 10 parent mentors that guide this team along the way;
and explained that this challenge has been put on by the Defense Department to create
a fully autonomous, unmanned vehicle that can drive from L.A. to Las Vegas in 10
hours or less on March 13, 2004. He stated that the team has been working on this
project since April 2003 and noted that it is almost complete; advised that the team was
required to submit a 10 -page technical study, which was submitted last October; and
advised that because of that study, Palos Verdes High School Road Warriors became 1
of 19 teams accepted out of 86 applicant teams in the United States vying for this
challenge. He mentioned that Palos Verdes High School is the only high school in the
nation that entered this competition; and highlighted some of this event's competitors:
Carnegie Mellon, Cal Tech, Northrop Grumman, Virginia Tech, etc. He noted that major
sponsors have offered supplies and cash; stated that American Honda donated the
Acura that will be utilized in the challenge; that EMC Corporation donated electronic
controls that will guide and control the car to its destination point; and that other
donations were received from Goodyear, USC and UCLA.
Aaron Schwartz, Palos Verdes High School Road Warriors vehicle team leader,
reiterated that American Honda and EMC Corporation are the major donors of this
project; explained that the electronic controls and joy stick donated by EMC Corporation
will allow the control and operation of this car to its destination point; and stated that the
teams are divided into 3 separate teams, his team being the one that makes
modifications to the vehicle. He stated that Joe Beeble was not able to attend the
meeting, but mentioned that his team utilizes computers, cameras and a laser system to
pinpoint obstacles in the road, thereby diverting the path of the vehicle and avoiding
those obstacles.
Katrina DeSimone , Palos Verdes High School Road Warriors vehicle team leader,
announced that today, the vehicle's acceleration had been successfully demonstrated
on a golf cart; noted that the autonomous vehicle is running; advised that testing is
under way to demonstrate the vehicle's steering, braking, accelerating as it uses a GPS
system — noting that the vehicle will be able to steer, accelerate and brake under
computer control; stated that the laser range finder is operational; and highlighted the
generous donations from Palos Verdes High School Booster Club, American Honda,
and EMC Corporation. She added that the team is still in dire need of help and
distributed a package that highlights the current list of equipment needed by the team.
She thanked the City Council for allowing them to make its presentation; noted that the
team members will be attending various peninsula City Council meetings within the next
month; and she invited everyone to witness the team's qualification and inspection
demonstration March 8th -12th and to witness the race on March 13, 2004.
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February 3, 2004
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In addressing Mayor pro tem Clark's inquiry, Mr. Cy stated that this presentation had
been made within the last week before the Palos Verdes School Board.
Mayor pro tem Clark thanked the team for their presentation; and highlighted the
students great accomplishments in this prestigious challenge, competing with various
specialty institutes, such as Carnegie Mellon, Cal Tech, etc., and for being the only high
school in the nation to participate.
(2) Presentation of a Certificate of Appreciation to Dylan C. Chodos for his
Arc Angel project.
Captain Jay Zuanich, commander of the Lomita Sheriff's Station proudly invited Dylan
Chodos to provide input on his Arc Angel program.
Dylan Chodos stated that he is an 8t" grader at Palos Verdes Intermediate School; that
he recently celebrated his Bar Mitzvah; and explained that as part of his Bar Mitzvah
celebration, he is participating in a charity of his choosing, selecting to bring the Arc
Angel program to the Lomita Sheriff's Station. He explained that Arc is an acronym for
"at -risk children "; and stated that he is currently collecting sports balls, such as basket
balls, footballs, soccer balls, and handballs, to be distributed by the Sheriff's deputies to
the children who are playing or hanging around on the streets. He expressed his belief
that by giving a new ball to a child on the street, it helps to create a line of
communication between the children and the law enforcement officers and helps to
bring calm. Mr. Chodos expressed his desire to continue on with this effort until he is
finished with high school, in 4 years. He mentioned that he will be writing letters to Big
5, Sportsmart, Sports Chalet and similar businesses to ask for donations; advised that
everyone who attended his Bar Mitzvah was asked to bring one new ball for this
program; and stated that he will also be using his Bar Mitzvah funds to purchase new
balls for this program. He added that the local Big 5 store has given him discounts on
the ball purchases for this program — pointing out that he has brought to the Lomita
Sheriff's Station approximately 300 balls thus far; and he urged everyone to participate
in this program by bringing at least one new ball to the Lomita Sheriff's Station for the
Arc Angel program. He thanked the Lomita sheriffs for their kind help and support.
Captain Zuanich stated that he brought Mr. Chodos to one of the station briefings; and
added that the officers were moved by Dylan's generosity. He mentioned that Dylan
and his mother have been back to the Lomita Sheriff's Station at least two times since
his original visit with a net full of balls that the deputies have placed in the back of their
cars and distributed to the children in all the cities the officers patrol. He noted his
delight with this program and added that Dylan will continue his efforts with this program
for the next 4 years.
On behalf of the City Council and Rancho Palos Verdes, Mayor pro tem Clark presented
Dylan Chodos with a Proclamation of Appreciation for his efforts and generosity, stating
that he is a positive role model and an outstanding illustration of good things young
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February 3, 2004
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people can do in communities. He expressed best wishes and continued success with
this program.
Captain Zuanich presented Dylan Chodos with a Certificate of Appreciation in
recognition of his exemplary efforts with the Arc Angel project at the Lomita Sheriff's
Station.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Wolowicz, to approve the Agenda
as submitted. No objection was noted.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Lois Larue, 3136 Barkentine Road, stated that she has been a member of the American
Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) since 1977, having joined after an altercation had taken
place with a local art exhibit at the library in Palos Verdes Estates; and stated that she
was a member of the board of directors of the ACLU for 3 years and that she was the
president of the ACLU's South Bay Chapter.
CITY COUNCIL ORAL REPORTS:
Councilman Wolowicz noted the following meetings /events he attended:
• January 22, 2004, attended the Los Angeles Air Force Base Regional Alliance
meeting to discuss the preservation of the Air Force Base; advised that many
elected officials were present, along with representatives from major businesses,
including large aerospace corporations; and stated that he is impressed with the
coalition force that is working on this issue.
• January 23, 2004, he was given a tour of the City's Public Works Department by
Director Allison and an explanation of the department's operations.
• January 29, 2004, attended as a private citizen the League of California Cities
meeting to support local taxpayers and the Public Safety Protection Act.
• January 29, 2004, he was a guest at the South Bay Chinese American Chamber
of Commerce; and that this last weekend, he participated in the Chinese New
Year celebrations at the South Bay School for Chinese Studies that was hosted
at the high school.
• January 31, 2004, and he toured the 30637 Calle de Suenos property and
neighboring homes for purposes of this evening's agenda discussion.
Councilman Long noted the following meetings /events he attended:
• Attended the 75th anniversary celebration of the Library District and presented a
resolution plaque on behalf of the City.
• Attended a meeting of the Mediterranean Homeowner's Association, wherein a
question came up as to the why the City Council authorized the expenditure of
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February 3, 2004
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$15,000 to study softball fields; and stated that he explained his perception of
that expenditure was for purposes of the City Council to obtain some objective
advice and specific information in that area.
• Stated that he talked with Rolling Hills Estates Councilman Zerunyan about the
concept of trying to establish a roundtable discussion to present to the public,
possibly on Cox Cable, with regard to the State's budget issues and its affects
upon the Peninsula cities.
• Attended a breakfast meeting with Senator Betty Karnette and was pleased to
have the opportunity to discuss with her some of the State's budget issues.
• Met with Doug Falkner, Waste Management representative, in order to familiarize
himself with Waste Management's waste collection services in the city; and he
noted the availability of an inexpensive backyard pickup service that is provided
by Waste Management.
• And he noted that he had received a copy of the resignation letter from the
Chairman of the Open Space Committee; and that he sent a letter attempting to
encourage the Chairman to withdraw that resignation.
Councilman Stern noted the following meetings /events he attended:
• Saturday, he, along with Mayor pro tem Clark, visited the Calle de Suenos site
and spoke with interested neighbors about the proposal which is on the agenda;
and stated that they visited the Ridgegate site, another topic on this agenda.
Mayor pro tem Clark noted the following meetings /events he attended:
• January 22, 2004, attended the South Bay Council of Governments monthly
Board of Directors meeting; advised that the South Bay Council of Governments
has been successful in securing a new grant from the California Public Utilities
Commission to establish a South Bay Energy Efficiency Resource Center — a
grant between $500,000 to $700,000; and he explained that this grant will open
up a whole array of new services and opportunities in the area of energy
efficiency for the 16 cities in the South Bay area. He stated as this program
starts to unfold, he would recommend that RPV take advantage of the
tremendous opportunities that come out of this grant that has been awarded to
the South Bay COG — pointing out that one of the key focuses is to help make
these communities /residents more conscientious about energy efficiency,
protection of the environment, and cost savings.
• That he heard a presentation by the Vice - President of External Affairs, Andrea
Ortega, Jr., from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, with
respect to the southland's water, where it comes from, and how it serves the
South Bay; and he recommended that this interesting presentation be offered to
the RPV City Council on a future agenda. He stated that 70 percent of the public
in the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California drinks bottled water as
opposed to tap water; commented on conservation efforts for the future that will
involve outdoor conservation for landscaping; and advised that within the next 5
years, the industry will be introducing a series of controlled systems for
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February 3, 2004
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residential and commercial sprinkler systems that will be operated with satellite
sensors, sensing when a landscape is in need of hydration as opposed to a
routine timer schedule for sprinkler systems.
• Announced that the South Bay Cities Council of Governments is hosting its 5th
Annual General Assembly -- "Partnerships: Building Better Communities" on
February 26, 2004, between 2:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. at the Redondo Beach
Historic Library building at Veteran's Park. He added that the event will
showcase many exhibits from the 16 partnering cities; and advised that County
Supervisor Don Knabe and former Speaker of the Assembly Robert Hertzberg
will be guest speakers. He mentioned that the basic thrust of the event is to
discuss how to leverage partnerships for more efficient and economical
government operations in the future; and he encouraged the City Council and
staff to attend if possible.
OLD BUSINESS /CITY MANAGER REPORTS:
City Manager Evans stated that last Thursday, he attended an all -day event with Sheriff
Lee Baca and other City Managers; and advised that Sheriff Baca indicated that his
budget would be cut by $108 million, which will require him to eliminate 1,000 deputies
from the force. He stated that this cut will impact cities through decreases in helicopter
services, SWAT teams, Special Forces, gang patrols; but stated that these cuts in
services will not necessarily impact RPV because this City contracts for these services.
He announced that Sheriff Baca anticipates a 1- percent increase in the cost of service
to the Contract Cities.
Miscellaneous Items for Action:
None.
Continued Items for Action:
None.
Continued Items Listed for Information Only:
• Appointment of City representative to the Los Angeles West Vector Control
District. (From December 16th to March 2, 2004)
• Agenda Format: proposed revisions. (From December 16th to March 16, 2004.)
Councilman Stern stated that the Minutes from December 2, Page 2, need to reflect the
correct spelling of Senator Karnette.
Councilman Long requested pulling Consent Calendar Item No. 3 from the Agenda.
City Manager Evans noted for Councilman Stern that staff does not believe the
Emergency Preparedness plan will exceed $66,000.
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February 3, 2004
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Mayor pro tem Clark announced that because he works for the Defense Department at
the Los Angeles Air Force Base, he would recuse himself from consideration of Agenda
Item No. 16, 2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Process -- noting that he is
not permitted to engage in any discussions in this regard.
NEW BUSINESS:
APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Long, to approve the amended
Consent Calendar, pulling Agenda Item No. 3, and amending the December 2, 2003
Minutes. The motion carried as follows:
AYES: Long, Stern, Wolowicz, and Mayor pro tem Clark
NOES: None
ABSENT: Gardiner
Motion to waive full reading.
Adopted a motion to waive reading in full of all ordinances presented at this meeting
with consent of the waiver of reading deemed to be given by all Council Members after
the reading of the title.
Minutes of December 2, 2003 and December 16, 2003 and the Adjourned Regular
Meeting January 20, 2004. (301)
Approved the Minutes, with the amendment to the December 2, 2003 Minutes.
Request for Proposals to Prepare a City Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. (401)
Authorized staff to solicit Request for Proposals (RFP's) for professional consulting
services to prepare a City Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan as required by the FEMA
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
With regard to conducting an assessment of natural hazards that pose a threat to
jurisdictions, Councilman Long asked that staff investigate what, if any, areas within
RPV have residents who are not able to procure homeowner's insurance except
through the California Fire Plan.
November 2003 Treasurer's Report. (602)
Received and filed the November 2003 Treasurer's Report.
December 2003 Treasurer's Report. (602)
Received and filed the December 2003 Treasurer's Report.
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February 3, 2004
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Request for Waiver of Fees for View Restoration Permit No. 161. (1203 x 1806)
Approved the requested fee waiver..
Resol. No. 2004 -05: Register of Demands.
ADOPTED RESOL. NO. 2004 -05, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
AND SPECIFYING FUNDS FROM WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID.
Resol. No. 2004 -06: Funding for Study of Potential Girls Softball Field Locations.
(1201 x 602)
ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2004 -06, AUTHORIZING A BUDGET INCREASE IN THE
AMOUNT OF $15,000 FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES TO ASSIST STAFF IN
STUDYING PROSPECTIVE SITES FOR GIRLS' SOFTBALL FIELDS.
Councilman Long moved, seconded by Councilman Stern, to amend the third whereas
clause in the proposed resolution as follows: "WHEREAS, the services of a
professional consultant are required to assist staff in creating specific plans, budgets
and timetables for the construction of up to four girls' softball fields at locations in the
City other than Lower Point Vicente." The motion carried as follows:
AYES: Long, Stern,
NOES: None
ABSENT: Gardiner
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Wolowicz and Mayor pro tem Clark
Resol. Nos. 2004 -07 and 08: Agreement to Exchange Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) funds for FY 2003 -2004. (601 x 1204)
The staff report recommended the following: (1) Conduct a public hearing to receive
citizen input on the exchange of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds
between the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the City of West Hollywood for Fiscal
Year 2003 -2004; (2) Approve the exchange of $150,000 from the City of Rancho Palos
Verdes Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) allocation for $93,750 in General
Funds from the City of West Hollywood; (3) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2004 -079
APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES AND THE CITY OF WEST HOLLYWOOD REGARDING
THE TRANSFER OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS FOR FY
2003 -2004; (4) ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2004 -08, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, AMENDING RESOLUTION
NO. 2003 -42, THE BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2003 -04, FOR A
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February 3, 2004
Page 8 of 37
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S GENERAL FUND; and (5) Authorize the City
Manager and City Clerk to execute the Agreement with the City of West Hollywood; (6)
Defer any decision on how to program funds generated by the sale of CDBG funds until
the fiscal year 2004 -05 budget cycle.
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Wolowicz, to concur with staff
recommendation.
Mayor pro tem Clark questioned if staff had any understanding of how West Hollywood
plans to use these funds that were acquired from RPV.
In response to Mayor pro tem Clark's inquiry, Director Allison stated that staff is only
aware that the funds will be utilized for a large project.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned if there was some way to investigate how other cities
that exchange CDBG funds with RPV utilize these funds, expressing his belief that this
knowledge may be able to improve RPV's negotiation of a higher rate.
Director Allison stated that staff would look into this issue.
Mayor pro tem Clark explained that the reason RPV is offering these CDBG funds is
due to the cancellation of some anticipated projects that RPV envisioned, projects for
which the City is no longer able to carry through.
The motion carried as follows:
AYES: Long, Stern, Wolowicz, and Mayor pro tem Clark
NOES: None
ABSENT: Gardiner
Appeal of a Grading Permit and Site Plan Review (Case No. ZON2003- 00039).
(1203)
City Clerk Purcell noted that the City Council had been provided copies of all late
correspondence in regard to this matter.
Councilman Long stated that this item was originally decided by the Planning
Commission at a time when he was on that Commission; noted that he has reviewed
the materials and now realizes that he did not participate in the subsequent discussion;
and that, therefore, he would not be recusing himself from consideration of this matter
this evening. He stated that he did not have an opportunity to visit the site; and
explained if he decides this lack of visiting the site would affect his ability to make an
adequately informed decision, he would then abstain from the vote, but that he will
reserve that decision until all the evidence has been presented this evening.
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February 3, 2004
Page 9 of 37
Councilman Stern noted that he and Mayor pro tem Clark visited with Mr. Gupta, Mr.
Steadly, Mr. Cartwright, Mr. Steinbach, and a number of other residents to discuss this
proposal; and stated that much of what they heard from the residents is already in the
staff report and the related materials.
Councilman Wolowicz stated that he also visited this site.
Associate Planner Blumenthal
ADOPT RESOLUTION NO.
UPHOLDING THE PLANNING
AND SITE PLAN REVIEW
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW
SUENOS.
presented staff report and the recommendation to
2004-_, DENYING THE APPEAL THEREBY
COMMISSION'S APPROVAL OF GRADING PERMIT
(CASE NO. ZON2003- 00039) TO ALLOW THE
SINGLE - FAMILY RESIDENCE AT 30637 CALLE DE
Councilman Long noted his belief that this proposed home will fit within the 16' x 30'
envelope; and that no portion of the proposed structure will be high enough to trigger
the height variation permit analysis.
Associate Planner Blumenthal stated that Councilman Long's understanding of the
proposed building is correct; and noted that the elevation differential between the two
housing tracts is approximately 60 feet.
With the aid of some photographs that he had taken on his site visit, Councilman Stern
highlighted the viewing area standing from the sliding glass door of Mr. Gupta's home;
and commented on the approximate viewing area following the completion of the
proposed project. He addressed the erection of a 6 -foot fence on the applicant's
property and what possible impacts that will have on Mr. Gupta's view of Catalina
Island; advised that a swimming pool is being proposed; and noted that just beyond the
existing chain link fence is a pathway and stairway that leads from Calle de Suenos
down to the school below — pointing out that this is a public area that children will be
traversing. He noted his concern for the children's safety and expressed the importance
of properly securing the private property pool.
Carl Steadly, 30615 Calle de Suenos, stated that the new house will have a 4 -car
garage situated perpendicular to the curving street, pushing the structure all the way to
the back of the property; and expressed his concern that this will create one large wall
that will block his view. He explained that all he is seeking is that the project applicant
eliminate one of the parking garages and rotate the house to follow the contour of the
street, believing that this would restore part of his Catalina Island view. He addressed
his concern that because his property and Mr. Gupta's property are on a separate
survey map from the project applicant, they were not permitted to be involved in any of
the discussions regarding view impacts; and he pointed out that while they are
technically in a separate neighborhood, his home and Mr. Gupta's home are more
directly impacted by the proposed project than 80 percent of the houses within their
homeowners association. He stated that it would be helpful to have a silhouette erected
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February 3, 2004
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at the site, giving everyone a better idea of why this house should be moved further to
the street and to follow the contour of the street.
Councilman Stern explained that the view impairment issue is not the same analysis as
the neighborhood compatibility analysis and that Mr. Steadly and Mr. Gupta were not
required to be included in the discussion regarding view impact, noting that the view
impact issue is analyzed on a different scale. He reiterated staff's comment that as long
as the house remains under the 16' x 30' envelope, it does not give rise to a view
impact analysis; and stated that in terms of neighborhood compatibility, it too is
measured under a different set of analyses.
Mr. Steadly expressed his concern that the project applicant would preserve the view
corridor for the neighbors across the street, but that the project applicant would not
protect his view corridor. He expressed his belief that he and Mr. Gupta are much more
affected than the other houses in that development by this proposed house is pushed
so far to the back.
Councilman Long stated that if the proposed grading is down in elevation, there is no
need to consider impact on view because the grading itself does not adversely impact
the view; and explained for Mr. Steadly that the City's ordinances do not give the City
the right to deny the project applicant because his proposal does not trigger any view
impact analysis.
Mr. Steadly reiterated that this project will create a huge wall effect; that it is pushed too
far back on the lot; and that it will obliterate his view of Catalina Island.
Anshoo Gupta, 30621 Calle de Suenos, echoed the same concerns expressed by Mr.
Steadly; stated that he has enjoyed his unobstructed view of Catalina Island for 10
years; that he considers this to be his retirement home; pointed out that he has
recognized all this time that there would one day be a house next door and that he
would lose some of his view; but explained that he had not imagined his view would be
so drastically impacted.
Councilman Stern stated that he is sympathetic with the loss of view and noted that the
project applicant is entitled to take advantage of the same view.
Mr. Gupta expressed his belief that the proposed house is much larger than the existing
houses in the area.
Mayor pro tem Clark explained that the proposed house is in a different residentially
zoned area than Mr. Gupta's and Mr. Steadly's; that because of this difference, the
properties have different standards that must be followed; and stated that a
neighborhood compatibility analysis of homes in the R -2 versus R -1 areas is not
permitted. He highlighted the fact that the proposed home is part of an estate /custom
development in the R -1 zone, and that Mr. Gupta's home is part of a subdivision
development in the R -2 zone. He noted that the neighbors should have been aware
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February 3, 2004
Page 11 of 37
there was a good possibility that this empty lot, which is zoned for residential
development, would have been developed one day.
Mr. Gupta clarified that he is only asking that the project applicant eliminate one of the
garages, which should create 10 feet of additional view of Catalina Island. He stated
that his lifestyle will be drastically changed with the loss of this view and that it will have
a negative impact upon his property value. Mr. Gupta stated that currently, he has a
180 - degree view; and he reiterated that this project would completely obliterate his view
of Catalina Island.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned how the elimination of the one garage would affect
his view.
Mr. Gupta explained for Councilman Wolowicz that he believes the elimination of one of
the garages will open his view corridor to Catalina Island by 10 feet.
Dennis Swing, 30675 Calle de Suenos, stated that he lives a couple houses down from
the proposed project and Mr. Gupta's home; expressed his support for the project
applicant's proposal; advised that the Rice family has gone through an extensive
process to get plans approved for the house; stated that the Rice family has presented
their plans to the homeowner's association; and stated that because Mr. Rice has
complied with all the rules and regulations, he should not have his proposal denied. He
added that all 11 members of the homeowner's association have given their support of
Mr. Rice's proposal; stated that the Rice family has spent a lot of time and money to get
this project approved; and expressed his opinion that the vacant lot is unsightly and that
the new project will enhance the area.
Jon Cartwright, 30630 Calle de Suenos, stated that he has lived at this address for 18
years; and advised that he had written two letters in support of the project applicant --
one as the President of the Panorama Estates Homeowner's Association and one as
the homeowner of the house directly across the street from this proposed lot. He urged
the City Council to deny the appeal and allow the Rice family to build their beautiful
house. He pointed out that Mr. Rice's house will impact the view of 6 houses -- 4
houses inside the Panorama Estates and 2 houses outside; noted that all of those view
impacts are below the 16 -foot threshold; that Mr. Rice's home is being built within the
16' x 30' envelope; noted that all the grading is downward; and that because of these
findings, view impact issues should not be a consideration because of Mr. Rice's
adherence to the regulations. He stated that every homeowner in that area should have
known that one -day a house would have been built on this empty lot, at least 16 feet
high, and at least as large as the houses on that side of the street. He advised that Mr.
Rice had consulted with the neighbors; that Mr. Rice had designed and situated the
house in a manner that is compatible with his neighborhood and that minimized view
impairment; pointed out that the design of the Rice home as presented allows him a
view corridor along his property; that it also allows his neighbor to the south a view
corridor; that it allows the neighbors on the west side of the street, both inside
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February 3, 2004
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Panorama Estates and outside, expansive views; and he urged the City Council to allow
these homeowners to keep these views.
Mr. Cartwright explained that the private road which serves as a common driveway is
only 34 -feet wide; that the lots extend into the street; that if Mr. Rice's house were to be
moved toward the street, it would create a closed, funnel effect and that it would
negatively impact the entire design concept of this development; and that it would
eliminate his view corridor. He stated that the Rice house would be the largest in
Panorama Estates in terms of square footage, but that it will not be larger in footprint.
He explained that the house is positioned so that it has a 16 -foot ridgeline from the
street; that it will not appear to be massive or out of scale with other homes in
Panorama Estates; and that, instead, it will maintain and enhance the feeling of
spaciousness and openness to make this development unique and a special place to
live — pointing out that all the homes in Panorama Estates are set back in a manner that
makes the development open and spacious. He again urged the City Council's support
of Mr. Rice's proposal as presented; and expressed his belief that Mr. Rice's home will
be a significant enhancement to his community and to the City.
Councilman Long stated that if the proposed home was moved closer to the street, it
would be too close to the street, closer than the other existing houses, and that it would
only be moving it out of one view impacted area into another view impacted area; and
asked for confirmation by staff that in evaluating neighborhood compatibility, one of the
provisions of the City's code is that the Council cannot consider houses in another
zoned area.
Addressing Councilman Long's inquiry, Director Rojas stated that his understanding is
correct under the newly adopted guidelines.
Referring to the pictures in regard to the impact of repositioning the proposed house,
Councilman Stern expressed his belief that the Rice family has planned the siting of the
house in a logical way that does not create a funnel effect at the entrance of the
roadway; noted his concurrence with the comment that if the house were moved
forward, it would create a different view impairment; noted that part of the problem lies
in the way the properties are configured; and explained that the analysis doesn't delve
into the view impact issue because of the 16' x 30' envelope.
Mayor pro tem Clark stated that he and Councilman Stern talked to the neighbors and
studied the proposal from different view points in the neighborhood; and he asked Mr.
Cartwright how much of his current view will be lost once this home is built.
In response to Mayor pro tem Clark's inquiry, Mr. Cartwright approximated that he will
lose 70 -75 percent of his current view with the proposed plans for Mr. Rice's house,
approximately three - quarters of the view he has enjoyed for almost 19 years.
Mr. Cartwright explained for Councilman Wolowicz that this proposed house will be set
back further than the other existing houses; and that if the footprint were moved closer
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 13 of 37
to the curb, it would end up obstructing the remainder of his view. He stated that the
house is moved at least 10 feet closer to the street than the rest of the houses; and he
expressed his belief that Mr. Rice did this in order to help with the view impairment to
the neighbors. He added that the houses along the west side are all L- shaped houses,
where the garage sticks out from the living quarters; and explained that the applicant
was able to take advantage of that northeast section and put his garages in that
position, but that the rest of the house pretty much is aligned with the existing houses.
Mr. Cartwright explained that the houses are of equal distance on either side of the
road; that the road itself curves; that at the point where Mr. Gupta's, Mr. Rice's and his
house intersect, it would be at the furthest point east as Calle de Suenos curves back
again; and expressed his belief that it's practically an impossible situation to build a
house of reasonable size on this lot without impairing views.
Renee Cartwright, 30630 Calle de Suenos, noted her support for Mr. Rice's proposal,
urging the City Council's support; stated that if Mr. Rice were to reposition his house
further to the east, the association would be opposed because it would close in the
neighborhood and create a funnel effect; and pointed out that as presently designed,
Mr. Rice's proposed home will be aesthetically aligned with the existing houses on that
street. She expressed her belief that the positioning of the house had more to do with
the alignment within the neighborhood rather than view impairment.
Jody Rice, project applicant, explained that this has been a long process; commented
on the numerous discussions that have taken place with City staff and architects to
determine what would be permitted to be built on site; advised that many studies were
conducted, such as land surveys, geological surveys; and noted that he sought staff's
approval of the architect's plans. Mr. Rice stated that the entire homeowner's
association and other neighbors living beyond the 500 -foot notification radius had been
contacted and advised of the plans for this house; noted that Mr. Gupta was Fed -Ex'd a
copy of the plans for the proposed house; and stated that the site was silhouetted for
the footprint. He noted that the proposed excavation had been reduced to
approximately 850 cubic yards; and stated that moving the house backward would cost
a tremendous amount of money because of the additional excavation, believing that it
would far exceed 1,000 cubic yards.
Mr. Rice stated that the 4 -car garage is for the vehicles he and his wife will be driving
and for the vehicles his sons will be driving in the future; explained that the house has
been positioned to follow the contour of the property; that the front has a dead area
where the street curves and that the house was turned outward in this dead area for the
benefit of preserving some of the Malibu view for one of the neighbors and for Mr.
Cartwright's view corridor. Mr. Rice commented on the design of the house; stated that
Mr. Gupta will not be looking into a massive walled structure; explained that large
windows will be positioned and will be free of window dressings that will create a very
open and attractive view for Mr. Gupta to see through to the ocean. Mr. Rice explained
that Mr. Gupta still has a view of Catalina Island from his property, from his kitchen and
dining room and from his upstairs rooms; and that the view of Catalina Island that he will
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 14 of 37
be losing will only be from the south corner at the bottom level of his house. He advised
that because a swimming pool will be built, he would be erecting a 6 -foot fence.
Mayor pro tem Clark noted his understanding from the correspondence received that
the design of Mr. Rice's home went through several iterations in order to take into
account not only the homeowner association neighbors' views, but also Mr. Gupta's and
Mr. Steadly's views.
Mr. Rice mentioned that the plans were also flipped so that the northwest corner could
have large open windows that Mr. Gupta would be able to look through to the island.
Mr. Rice noted for Councilman Wolowicz that he will erect a 6 -foot fence all along the
backside of his property; and stated that the City requires open aesthetics to this fence.
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Long, to concur with staff's
recommendation to deny the appeal.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned how much input was sought from Mr. Gupta in regard
to seeking his input.
Addressing Councilman Wolowicz' inquiry, Director Rojas explained that various
discussions have been undertaken with Mr. Gupta and other neighbors, but explained
that there are different guidelines to consider for different zoning areas.
Councilman Wolowicz noted his lack of ease in Mr. Gupta's and Mr. Steadly's belief that
they were excluded from view impact discussions with the rest of the homeowner's
association, believing that there should have been more communication among Mr.
Rice and these two homeowners that will end up losing a large portion of their view; and
he questioned what the impact would be if this house were moved closer to the curb.
Director Rojas noted for Councilman Wolowicz that moving the house closer to the curb
would most likely create other negative impacts to the neighborhood.
Councilman Long highlighted the purpose and importance of adhering to the City's
guidelines; stated that the City is not in a position to require on a case -by -case basis of
what someone's home should look like; pointed out that this house will not require a
height variation permit because it falls within the acceptable height requirement; and,
therefore, the fact that it significantly impairs someone's view is of no consequence. He
stated that because the grading will be done so as to lower the elevation of the graded
area, it will not impair the view; expressed his belief that the proposed home is
compatible with the existing neighborhood; and pointed out that even if Mr. Rice were to
eliminate one of the 4 garages, he would not have to decrease the proposed square
footage of the house. Councilman Long expressed his belief that the proposed house is
as close to the street as can reasonably be done to maintain compatibility with the
character Panorama Estates; and stated that he does understand the proposed project
will significantly impair views but that there is nothing the City can do about it — pointing
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 15 of 37
out that almost any reasonable construction on this site would impair views. He noted
that Mr. Gupta will retain a wonderful view; and that this project will result in a
significantly greater loss of view for the other neighbors; expressed his belief that Mr.
Rice has gone to great effort to minimize the view impact to all neighbors; and that
because Mr. Rice's proposal is consistent with the City's ordinances, there is no reason
to deny his proposal.
Councilman Stern stated that the analysis conducted was the correct analysis and that it
is the Council's job to see that all rules were adhered to, which has been done with this
proposal.
Mayor pro tem Clark stated that he does not believe the elimination of the Catalina
Island view is a significant view impairment for Mr. Gupta; that both these
properties /homes were set up to take advantage of the dramatic ocean views; and
noted that Mr. Gupta will have an approximate 140 - degree view following construction
of Mr. Rice's house. Mayor pro tern Clark stated that while he sympathizes with the
homeowners who have enjoyed this view across the vacant lot for many years, they
should have understood that it was permitted for residential development. He stated
that Mr. Rice has the right as the property owner to develop this lot in a thoughtful
manner and in conformance with the City's codes, as has been done; and that following
extensive review and analysis by staff, he stated that he would uphold the Planning
Commission's decision and allow Mr. Rice to proceed with building this beautiful home,
believing that this home will not only add value to this subdivision, but also add value to
the entire area. He expressed his belief that Mr. Rice has been a good neighbor not
only to the homeowner's association members, but also to those neighbors living on the
other development.
City Attorney Lynch expressed her belief that it would be useful to incorporate into the
resolution more of the analyses and statements that were articulated by the City
Council; and she suggested that if the City Council made a decision on this matter that
staff be permitted to bring back an amended resolution on the next City Council
Consent Calendar for adoption. She stated that it would be helpful to include some of
the City Council's comments and that it would make the record more clear as to the
basis for their decision.
No objection was noted to bringing back at the next City Council meeting the amended
resolution.
Councilman Long noted his disagreement with Mayor pro tem Clark's belief that
blocking the view of Catalina Island is not a significant view impairment, and he
requested that the additional findings that will be included in the amended resolution
should be findings that the entire City Council agrees with.
Hearing no objection to the motion to deny the appeal, Mayor pro tem Clark so ordered
approval of the motion.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 16 of 37
RECESS AND RECONVENE
Mayor pro tern Clark recessed the meeting at 9:02 P.M. and reconvened the meeting at
9:10 P.M.
REGULAR NEW BUSINESS:
Equestrian Committee. (1808 x 1203)
Associate Planner Blumenthal presented staff report and the recommendation to
provide staff with direction on the status of the Equestrian Committee.
With regard to Page 2 of staff report, Councilman Stern questioned what staff
anticipates in the way of permits that may be sought in the next few years.
Addressing Councilman Stern's inquiry, Associate Planner Blumenthal stated that it is
difficult for staff to foresee any future large domestic animal permit requests.
Director Rojas added that the 2 permits City Council had acted on had special rules
attached because they involved nonprofit agencies; but in terms of a resident asking for
a permit to keep horses on a vacant lot, as written in the code, he stated that the City
hasn't had any of those in quite some time and that it would be difficult to gauge.
Councilman Stern questioned from a historical perspective, how many disputes have
come before the Equestrian Committee for resolution.
Responding to Councilman Stern's question, Director Rojas explained that when the
Equestrian Committee was first formed, there were some disputes, approximately 6 to 8
in the first year or two; and noted that these disputes would be handled and solved
without City Council input.
Councilman Stern questioned if the role /function of the Equestrian Committee has
changed any in the recent past, other than their consideration of an equestrian center,
manure composting guidelines, and trails.
Director Rojas indicated that as far as staff is aware, those are the only issues.
Highlighting the approximate 14 hours of staff time needed each month to staff the
Equestrian Committee meetings and provide support, Mayor pro tern Clark questioned
what these hours equate to in terms of financial impact to the City.
In response to Mayor pro tem Clark's question, City Manager Evans estimated that the
use of one clerical person and one professional planner costs the City approximately
$700 to $800 each month.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 17 of 37
Councilman Wolowicz questioned if the Equestrian Committee's work on the trails can
be taken over by staff and /or considered by the Open Space Task Force.
Addressing Councilman Wolowicz's question, City Manager Evans stated that
representatives of the Equestrian Committee are very active on other committees, such
as the Forrestal Steering Committee; advised that the Equestrian Committee has been
working on putting together an equestrian center that has been considered by the Open
Space Task Force; but he noted his opinion that members of the Equestrian Committee
could still perform those functions without necessarily being members of the Equestrian
Committee.
Councilman Stern stated that it would be helpful to understand what in the charter of the
Equestrian Committee remains unfulfilled, if anything, and beyond that, assuming there
is something _that the group believes should be done by the Equestrian Committee; and
he questioned the need to possibly amend the Equestrian Committee's charter.
Gordon Leon, 38 Narcissa Drive, Chairman of the Equestrian Committee, stated that it
is true the Committee's initial charter of taking care of the animal permits and
complaints have been resolved by the Equestrian Committee, that the Committee's
workload on that front has diminished over the past years. He explained that over the
years, this Equestrian Committee has developed into a valuable skill base of residents
that focus on equestrian issues; stated that when he was appointed to this Committee
several years ago, the Committee had been encouraged to deal in several areas, such
as the equestrian trails and the equestrian park; and that because of the
encouragement to do so, the Committee has taken an active role in these additional
issues, although they are outside of the Committee's original charter. He expressed the
belief that having overlapping charters with the Open Space Task Force puts everyone
in a difficult situation and stated that these overlapping charters do not serve the City
well. Mr. Leon stated that in order to be able to effectively deal with the equestrian
issues, the Equestrian Committee should be the sole organization that considers these
issues with its skilled member base.
Mr. Leon explained that there are several very important issues that are coming up
specifically having to do with the equestrian park, integrating that park into the City in an
appropriate manner, developing adequate plans for the location and configuration of the
park, integrating it within the preserve, and options for management of the park; and
reiterated his suggestion to centralize the equestrian issues under one entity, under the
Equestrian Committee, and to get rid of the overlapping charters that currently exist.
With regard to the use of staff resources for the Equestrian Committee, Mr. Leon stated
that the minutes could be taken by a member of the Committee; and suggested that the
Equestrian Committee have final actions at the Committee level, where only appeals
would come before the City Council -- similar to the way it works with the Planning
Commission. He expressed his belief that the Equestrian Committee not only serves
the interests of the equestrian community, but that it also serves the interests of the
non - equestrian community in the City.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 18 of 37
Highlighting the purpose of this Committee to serve as a forum for people to bring in
issues of concern, Councilman Stern asked Mr. Leon if this is routinely happening.
Addressing Councilman Stern's inquiry, Mr. Leon stated that the public has brought
issues before the Equestrian Committee in regard to the trails, moving toward a unified
trail system; and that members of the Portuguese Bend preserve, as well as local
trainers, have commented on issues concerning the equestrian center.
Councilman Stern noted his concern that there may be a public perception that the
Equestrian Committee is not objective when considering horse - related matters — citing
the lack of public input at the Equestrian Committee concerning the Pony Club matter.
He stated that 4 to 6 individuals came to the City Council meeting to voice their
objection to the Pony Club's proposal to increase the number of horses permitted, but
that these same individuals had not gone before the Equestrian Committee to voice
their opposition. He noted that if this is the public perception that the public is wasting
their time coming before the Equestrian Committee, then it is his belief that the
Committee has evolved into an advocacy group for the equestrian community and that it
is not a fair forum. He asked Mr. Leon if he believed this to be the case.
Responding to Councilman Stern's inquiry, Mr. Leon stated that he would have a
difficult time speaking to that as a public perception. He expressed his belief that the
issue is truly a structural one, wherein the nonprofit large animal permits are set up to
go before the City Council for final approval and that there is no decision - making
process by the Equestrian Committee — pointing out that in this case, the charter has
set the group up for failure; and stated that if the charter had included the Equestrian
Committee as a final decision - making body and not purely an advisory body, that more
people would participate in the Committee hearings.
Councilman Stern stated that Mr. Leon's point is well taken in terms of the overlapping
charters as they presently exist, and questioned whether the equestrian issues that Mr.
Leon has articulated are really a subset of the Open Space Task Force issues. He
stated that he does not think the trail issues belong to one committee, and that he is not
sure how it should work since the trails are used by other people within the community.
With regard to the equestrian park, Mr. Leon stated that because it will be placed in
open space, he does understand the Open Space Task Force dealing with the
allocation of space for equestrian activity; but he stated that he and the Equestrian
Committee question why the Open Space Task Force should influence the configuration
of an equestrian park; and noted that the Open Space Task Force should deal more
with zoning - related issues, allocating the space within the peninsula. He stated that the
Equestrian Committee should have the majority input on the equestrian park and with
the configuration of the equestrian trails.
Councilman Long questioned where the City should draw the line for special interest
committees as a way of offering input into the use of public and private land.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 19 of 37
Responding to Councilman Long's question, Mr. Leon explained that there are issues
that are more significant than others; and stated that while he tends to agree that there
are land use issues having to do with the zoning ordinances as opposed to the structure
of the Equestrian Committee, the difference here is that the Equestrian Committee
would be more of a consulting role to the Planning Commission and the City.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned if the Equestrian Committee could effectively function
with a reduced meeting schedule, possibly meeting on a quarterly basis, but to be able
to meet on an on -call basis in case something special should arise that would
necessitate an additional meeting to take place.
Mr. Leon, responding to Councilman Wolowicz's question, explained that there are
some elements of the Committee focus that would function fine on a quarterly basis; but
stated that there are also some issues currently before the Equestrian Committee that
need to be discussed on a routine and frequent basis, such as the creation of manure
disposal guidelines -- pointing out that some issues would take months to resolve. He
stated that there are some things that are far enough off where the Committee would
only need to meet on a quarterly basis; and stated that as soon as the site is selected
for the equestrian park, it may be necessary for the Committee to conduct meetings on
a monthly or weekly basis.
Mayor pro tem Clark stated that he appreciates and commends the efforts of the former
and current members of the Equestrian Committee, noting that the Committee has
resolved some significant issues in this community; and pointed out that this Committee
started with 9 members and that over time, it has accomplished a great deal of the
original charter; and mentioned that past, committees have been eliminated when those
committees have fundamentally declared a victory in their charters, such as the View
Restoration Commission. Recognizing that a very important skill base has evolved from
this Committee, Mayor pro tem Clark asked Mr. Leon if he could envision a future state
whereby members of this Committee and the community would act in an advisory role
to assist staff and the City Council with equestrian - related issues on an as- needed
basis.
In response to Mayor pro tem Clark's question, Mr. Leon commented on his experience
with utilizing a certain skill base for his employer for a particular activity; stated that a
group of skilled experts would be hired to participate in a productive manner with a
certain program; that when that program is completed, the skilled experts are reduced
to part -time staff; but explained that at this point, this skilled expert staff becomes less
effective because their allegiance begins to go elsewhere and that the skill base at that
point begins to evaporate very quickly. Mr. Leon pointed out that there are a lot of
people in the community that are concerned about equestrian issues; and he expressed
his belief that it would be too difficult to retain the skilled base on an as- needed basis.
Mr. Leon reiterated that the Committee has started to contribute in additional areas
other than just the large animal permits.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 20 of 37
Mayor pro tern Clark commented on times when the City needs to eliminate committees
that have completed their missions; stated that consideration needs to be given to the
interests of the entire community, not only the equestrian community; and questioned
what are the financial impacts to the City to continue with a committee that many say
has completed its mission.
Kay Bara, 1 Peppertree Drive, representing the Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen's
Association, urged the City Council to not eliminate the Equestrian Committee; stated
that the Committee has been helpful in many areas; and pointed out that the City does
not have to pay for this valuable equestrian knowledge. Ms. Bara explained that this is
the one sport where zoning issues have to be taken into consideration, where property
values are involved, and that because of these related issues, it becomes a higher
financial priority when compared to other special interest groups, such as hikers. With
respect to opposition at the Equestrian Committee meetings, Ms. Bara expressed her
belief that it's always the same 4 people that say the Equestrian Committee is not fair
and that she does not believe that is a general perception in the community. With
regard to the limited number of people applying to serve on the Equestrian Commission,
Ms. Barra explained that there was some confusion concerning the term limits for those
who are currently on the Committee; and advised that there are now 9 applicants who
are seeking to serve on the Equestrian Committee. She expressed her belief that this is
not the time to eliminate the Committee, highlighting the manure program and the
equestrian park; and she urged the City Council to give this Committee at least one
more year to work on the issues; and if necessary, suggested that the City Council re-
evaluate the need to eliminate the Committee at that time.
Mayor pro tem Clark asked Ms. Bara if she could envision a future state whereby
members of this Committee and the community would act in an advisory role to assist
staff and the City Council with equestrian - related issues on an as- needed basis.
Ms. Bara noted for Mayor pro tern Clark that she would prefer the Committee to stay
intact; believing that on an as- needed basis would not be sufficient.
Focusing on trails and the equestrian center, Councilman Stern asked the Committee
members why they believe its members cannot effectively work within the parameters of
the Open Space Task Force meetings, expressing his belief that the equestrian
members would play a significant role in working with the Open Space Task Force, and
allowing for a unified approach as to how to address all these needs.
Ms. Bara, responding to Councilman Stern's question, and explained that the
Equestrian Committee members have somewhat participated with the Open Space
Task Force; advised that not too many people on the Open Space Task Force
understand horses and the needs of the equestrian community; and expressed her
belief that the Open Space Task Force will end up pitting one group against another —
stating that the groups have already become solidified. She expressed her belief that it
will not work. She noted her preference to keep the Equestrian Committee together
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 21 of 37
and, if necessary, have it meet less often — pointing out that if it meets too infrequently,
it will lose its momentum and cohesiveness.
Councilman Long asked Ms. Bara what are the current horse - related issues in the City.
Addressing Councilman Long's inquiry, Ms. Bara explained that presently, the two
largest issues are the trails and the equestrian center, multiple use trails that have to be
sorted out for everyone's use.
Councilman Long questioned why the Equestrian Committee believes the issue of trails
is a horse issue, why does the input on trails need to come from the Equestrian
Committee, and why should there not be a Trails Committee wherein the City seeks
equal input on a level playing field for everyone's enjoyment.
Ms. Bara noted for Councilman Long that the equestrian community believes it is
essential to protect horse trails; and stated that other groups should be able to use the
trails, but explained that the Equestrian Committee is able to provide the expertise on
the trails. She expressed her belief that the needs of the equestrian community will get
lost in the shuffle with the Open Space Task Force if the Committee is not able to
provide the necessary input.
Richard Bara, 1 Peppertree Drive, explained that the Equestrian Committee started with
9 members; stated that there are 4 Q zones in RPV; that originally, there were
representatives from at least 3 of those zones; and that during the first year of the
Committee's existence, the disputes in the various Q zones were a big factor with the
Committee. He stated that it then became necessary for every member living in a
particular Q zone to recuse themselves when a dispute arose between two residents of
that same zone. He stated that the work of the Committee evolved over the years; and
that when an issue came up, one member of the Equestrian Committee and a City staff
member would visit the site to inspect the problem and would come up with a
recommendation, and that it would then be necessary for that Committee member to
recuse themselves from that particular case. He stated that somewhere in this term, it
became an even number (6) of Committee members; expressed his belief that the
Committee needs to be increased to 9 members; and urged the City Council to allow
the Committee to remain intact for at least one more year. He stated that in the next
year, this Committee should meet on a monthly basis and no less than a bi- monthly
basis, if reduced in number.
Mr. Bara stated that input on the trails and the equestrian park is important; explained
that the Equestrian Committee should have priority in providing input for the trails they
use — pointing out the importance of protecting the dwindling trails in the City and all
over the peninsula in the past years. He pointed out that the Equestrian Committee is
becoming more proactive in the protection of these dwindling trails and the Committee
is starting to see some progress in this area all over the Peninsula. Mr. Bara stated that
the Equestrian Committee has done such a good job, that the disputes hardly arise
anymore; and stated that residents are aware that the Committee is tending to the
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 22 of 37
equestrian - related issues. He mentioned that when staff and a Committee member go
out to address an issue, it oftentimes can be solved on the spot and never reach the
Committee; and that the issues are smaller and are able to be solved much easier now
that the process is in place.
Mayor pro tem Clark asked Mr. Bara if he could envision a future state whereby
members of this Committee and the community would act in an advisory role to assist
staff and the City Council with equestrian - related issues on an as- needed basis.
In response to Mayor pro tern Clark's inquiry, Mr. Bara stated that taking into
consideration the major issues currently being addressed, a reduced meeting schedule
would delay productivity, expressing his belief that the City will not bring the trails issue
to the most informed people, if any at all; and that this inaction would only allow the
trails to continue to disappear. He stated that the Equestrian Committee is very
interested in the trails and that the Committee is being very proactive in saving them;
and he stated that the equestrian park needs full -time attention from an experienced
and skilled Equestrian Committee. He added that the manure issue is another topic that
needs to be addressed on a monthly basis throughout the next year in order to see
progress.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned if there has been a major increase in the number of
horses in RPV in the last few years; and questioned what conversations have taken
place with the P.V. Peninsula Horsemen's Association, wondering if the discussions
address areas outside of Rancho Palos Verdes.
Mr. Bara noted for Councilman Wolowicz that the City has not witnessed a drastic
increase in the number of horses in RPV; stated that there should be a liaison from the
Committee to work with the Peninsula cities on solving the trail problems; and noted that
an asserted effort is being made to address the dwindling trails on the east side and the
connector trails through Rolling Hills. He stated that if someone is interested in using
the trails in Rolling Hills, that they must first get permission and wear a badge while
traversing those trails — noting that this is done for safety purposes. He expressed his
belief that all of the peninsula cities are not doing enough to assist in the effort to save
and maintain the trails.
Charlene O'Neil, 33 Headland Drive, expressed her belief that an Equestrian Committee
is different from other special interest groups seeking to use the trails because of the
agricultural /equestrian zoning related properties and unique issues with usage; and she
stated that these zones will always need special input to address the maintenance and
that the City will need to utilize the knowledge of someone who is familiar with the
needs of the equestrian community — pointing out that the City will always realize some
type of fiscal impact for use of staff and /or professional input for these special needs.
Ms. O'Neil advised that every stable on the peninsula has a waiting list of those seeking
to board their horses; and stated that in some cases, the waiting lists have a waiting
period of up to two years. Addressing the concern that no one attended the Equestrian
Committee to voice any opposition to the Pony Club's proposal, Ms. O'Neil stated that it
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 23 of 37
is her belief people did not voice any opposition at that Equestrian Committee meeting
because staff was recommending approval for the Pony Club to expand to two more
horses and that the Equestrian Committee was in concurrence with that
recommendation. She stated that this City's future with the new golf course, the new
hotel, and hopefully the 1,500 acres of open space should also include a horse park and
well- maintained trails; and stated that the Committee should be maintained in order to
foster the awareness of equine management within the Q districts, urging the City
Council to keep the Equestrian Committee together.
Ray Van Dinther, 28180, PVDE, highlighted her dream and reality of finally owning
horse property on the Peninsula; and stated that when she first moved to the here, she
had requested to become a member of the Equestrian Committee but was told that the
City was not seeking any additional members -- pointing out her desire to once again
apply for service on this Committee. She commented on the two trails which have
completely disappeared in the last year because of the peninsula cities' inaction on
maintenance issues -- one being Martingale Trail and another being Sol Vista Trail.
She advised that the trails have become very dangerous from lack of proper
maintenance; and noted her strong belief to have and maintain designated trails for the
equestrian community. She explained that it is very dangerous to ride horses on streets
next to fast - moving vehicles; and noted that because of the vanishing trails, she is
having to ride her horse more and more on the streets that have no barriers for her and
her horse's protection. Ms. Van Dinther reiterated her desire to serve on this
Committee.
Carolyn Bojorquez, 11 Mustang Road, RPV, stated that she is puzzled with the City's
willingness to spend $15,000 for someone to look into the possibility of a girl's softball
field, and that some in the City are questioning the fiscal impact for the Equestrian
Committee to meet and confer on issues concerning the placement of an equestrian
park and trail maintenance — pointing out that it costs much less for this Committee to
meet than $15,000. She stated that the trails and the equestrian community help to
make this a unique city; and stated that the Equestrian Committee should not be in
jeopardy of being eliminated after doing a thorough job in completing the work of its
charter — noting that there are other issues the Committee needs to address.
Mayor pro tem Clark asked Ms. Bojorquez if she could envision a future state whereby
members of this Committee and the community would act in an advisory role to assist
staff and the City Council with equestrian - related issues on an an- needed basis.
Ms. Bojorquez noted for Mayor pro Clark stated that there are some issues that don't
need to be discussed on a monthly basis, but expressed her belief that the Equestrian
Committee needs to meet on a regular basis to discuss the issues dealing with the
equestrian park, manure and trails issues.
Jack Smith, 32025 Sea Ridge Circle, Board Member of the Palos Verdes Peninsula
Horsemen's Association, expressed his concern with the future of the Equestrian
Committee; explained that horse issues are a big part of the equestrian community all
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 24 of 37
over the peninsula; and stated that it is very appropriate for this City to have an
Equestrian Committee that is made up of those from the equestrian community and the
non - equestrian community. He urged the City Council to keep the Equestrian
Committee intact; and stated that instead of this City choosing to eliminate this
Committee, that the City require it to meet on a less frequent basis.
Madeline Ryan, 28328 Palos Verdes Drive East, advised that there is a significant issue
in this City which is a direct threat to the equestrian community; stated that this issue
needs to be taken up with the Equestrian Committee as soon as possible; and she
urged the Council to allow the Committee to at least convene one more time to discuss
this critical issue before it eliminates this Committee. She stated that the matter of dire
concern deals with development of second units on the horse properties in the Q District
— highlighting her concern that there currently is no provision in the City's code to set
aside any square footage for future horse - keeping.
Arlene Block, Chairperson of the Equestrian Subcommittee of the Recreation and Parks
Task Force, advised that she is not a member of the equestrian community and stated
that her work on this issue has been an interesting process; and noted that all the
information she has gained in regard to the equestrian needs has come from the
Equestrian Committee — noting that there is nowhere else to go in this City for the
information that is needed to do her work on this subcommittee. She stated that the
Equestrian Committee has provided information concerning the equestrian park and
trails, such as placement of the equestrian park, financing, integration of the park with
other horse programs on the Peninsula, etc.; and stated that the Equestrian Committee
has been very valuable to her work on the subcommittee. She suggested that the City
Council at least keep the Equestrian Committee together as long as the Recreation and
Parks Task Force needs that Committee's expertise.
Councilman Wolowicz questioned if anyone from the Equestrian Committee is serving
on the Open Space Task Force.
City Manager Evans noted for Councilman Wolowicz that no one from the Equestrian
Committee applied to serve on the Open Space Task Force.
Ms. Block stated that many of the Equestrian Committee members have consistently
attended the Open Space Task Force meetings and have provided input.
Councilman Stern noted his agreement that the Equestrian Committee members do
provide valuable input for the City's benefit, but he questioned whether the original
structure and intent of the Committee is still an appropriate structure for the issues of
concern articulated this evening.
Addressing Councilman Stern's inquiry, Ms. Block stated that there is no other structure
in place that would give the kind of input that the Equestrian Committee has been able
to provide; and she stated that in terms of getting a valuable group of people, with
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 25 of 37
slightly different views all focused on the equestrian community, that has been a very
valuable resource.
RECESS AND RECONVENE
Mayor pro tern Clark recessed the meeting at 10:31 P.M. and reconvened the meeting
at 10:40 P.M.
(Equestrian Committee item continued.)
Councilman Long moved, seconded by Councilman Wolowicz, that the Equestrian
Committee continue for one more year; that it meet as often as its members and staff
determine it is appropriate, up to once a month; that the meetings not exceed the
amount to operate as is reflected in the present budget for this Committee; that the
formation of this Committee will be re- examined in one year to determine if this body is
needed; that staff will solicit more applications to bring the membership up to 9
members, who will serve one year on this Committee; that the City Council will reserve
judgment on the size of the Committee until such time as all applicants have been
interviewed — interviews /appointments to be done as expeditiously as possible; that in
addition to the Committee's existing charter, that the Committee would not be given the
authority to make final decisions on any matter; that the Committee will provide advice
on land use issues to the Planning Commission; that it will provide advice on an
equestrian center and other equestrian - related issues to the Open Space Task Force;
that it will provide advice to the City Council and staff on horse care and issues
concerning the handling of manure; that it will provide advice to the City Council and
Planning Commission on trails, the preservation of trails, and that it will attempt to
coordinate with other Peninsula cities on the preservation of trails; and that the City
Council will look at the progress and reports relating to the issues set forth in its charter
and re- evaluate the Committee one year from now.
Councilman Stern stated that the Equestrian Committee was set up for a specific
purpose, a purpose which has been successfully achieved; explained that on a
philosophical level, he is opposed to keeping institutions intact if they have done what
they were supposed to accomplish; and noted his concern that this Committee may
have become somewhat of an advocacy group for the equestrian community — pointing
out that while there is nothing wrong with its advocacy interests, it should not be done in
this forum. Councilman Stern stated that he realizes the equestrian community
interests are different and unique and noted that he could support the motion; but he
stated that the Committee needs to recognize that its role, in his view, is not to advocate
the interests of the equestrian community only; that if the members want to be
advocates for these equestrian interests, that it needs to be done by a separate entity,
not the Equestrian Committee. He reiterated his concern that no one had attended the
Equestrian Committee meeting to voice opposition to the Pony Club proposal.
Councilman Stern expressed his belief that the frequency of the Committee meetings
should be reduced in number; and stated that some of the issues of concern articulated
this evening should be done at the Open Space Task Force level.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 26 of 37
Mayor pro tem Clark expressed his belief that the current Equestrian Committee can
declare a victory with the intent of its charter; stated that taking into account all the
testimony, he is convinced there is an ongoing need for the Equestrian Committee to
meet and confer for one more year; and noted that he would like for the City Council to
revisit in one year the structure and value of this Committee to determine if the
Equestrian Committee continues to be of value to the City. Mayor pro tem Clark
supported the suggestion that the Equestrian Committee meet on an as- needed basis;
and mentioned that last year, two of its meetings were cancelled due to the lack of a
quorum. He stated that potential new Committee members should only be appointed to
serve for one year; and stated that the Equestrian Committee should appoint one or two
members to be liaisons who will regularly attend the Open Space Task Force meetings
so that the expertise that's embodied in the membership of the Equestrian Committee
has continuity of input to the Open Space Task Force as it moves forward on broader
issues. He stated that he would support giving the Equestrian Committee additional
scope in its charter.
Councilman Long echoed Councilman Stern's concerns with the perception that the
Equestrian Committee has become an advocacy group for the equestrian community.
Responding to Councilman Wolowicz's inquiry regarding the intent of the motion,
Councilman Long stated that if the Equestrian Committee wants to address other topics
over and above what has been discussed this evening, the Committee would need to
come before the City Council for approval before it spends any time on other issues of
concern.
The motion carried as follows:
AYES: Long, Stern, Wolowicz and Mayor pro tem Clark
NOES: None
ABSENT: Gardiner
It was the consensus of the City Council to conduct the Equestrian Committee
application interviews on March 2, 2004.
The appointment of members to the Residential Development Standards Ad Hoc
Steering Committee. (1203 x 106)
The staff report recommended that Council agree on the membership criteria and scope
of work of the Residential Development Standards Committee.
City Manager Evans explained that the Residential Development Standards Ad Hoc
Steering Committee would be modeled after the Neighborhood Compatibility
Committee, consisting of 2 City Council members, 2 Planning Commission members,
and hopefully the 3 applicants who were not appointed to the Planning Commission and
perhaps 2 other at -large members.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 27 of 37
Mayor pro tern Clark moved to approve staff recommendation; directed staff and the
City Clerk to contact Kristine Denton, Steve Perestam, Jim Slayden, Frank Lyon and
Jon Cartwright in writing, inviting them to join the Residential Development Standards
Ad Hoc Steering Committee; moved to direct the Planning Commission to appoint 2
members to serve on this Committee; and that Councilman Wolowicz and Councilman
Long serve on the Committee, as well as 2 members from the Planning Commission.
Councilman Stern noted his preference to invite anyone in RPV to serve on this
Committee and that the applicants be selected from the pool of applications.
Councilman Long suggested that the interviews be conducted on March 2, 2004; and
Councilman Long seconded the motion.
Hearing no objection, Mayor pro tem Clark so ordered.
Ridgegate Drive Vacation. (1204)
Senior Engineer Jules presented the staff report and the recommendation to approve
the request to formally initiate the vacation of Ridgegate Drive and direct staff to
continue to work with the Ridgegate Drive Community throughout the vacation process.
Highlighting Page 5, Section 1 d of the Resolution, Councilman Stern noted the
requirement for the signatures of at least 50 percent of the directly affected property
owners to support the request for vacation; pointed out that only 156 out of the 603
property owners had responded to the survey; and questioned what justification, if any,
was given by the homeowner group for bringing this issue before the City Council when
the required number of signatures had not been attained.
Director Allison commented on staff's interaction with this community; and explained
that while staff is cognizant of the required process, staff brought this matter forward in
its attempts to be responsive to the residents' concerns.
Councilman Long questioned whether the limited number of signatures indicates the
community's lack of support for the street vacation.
Responding to Councilman Long's inquiry, Senior Engineer Jules explained that the
community was hoping that just based on the results of the survey, that it would initiate
enough interest; and stated that the community now understands more fully the
conditions of the resolution and that the community members will canvass their
community to receive the required number of signatures.
Councilman Long questioned what other options had been considered prior to coming
to the option of street vacation.
Senior Engineer Jules noted for Councilman Long that only Option A had been
implemented, the speed limit signs and rumble strips.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 28 of 37
Councilman Long questioned if speed bumps had been tested on Ridgegate Drive.
Senior Engineer Jules stated that the Ridgegate community's request for speed bumps
was denied by the Traffic Committee and appealed to the City Council, and not
approved by the City Council; she explained that Ridgegate Drive is a collector street,
not a residential street; and noted that the community has petitioned that Ridgegate
Drive be treated as a residential street — pointing out that speed humps are only
recommended for residential streets.
Director Allison noted for Councilman Long that there are no homes facing onto
Ridgegate Drive; explained that it is a connector for other arterials; advised that
Ridgegate Drive is a 30 -mile- per -hour street; and that speed humps are only permitted
on residential streets where the speed limit is 25 miles per hour. He noted that staff
advised this community that the City could not allow speed humps on Ridgegate Drive
because it is not a residential street; and that if this community continues to want the
speed humps, that it would have to take the steps necessary to make Ridgegate Drive a
private street.
Clifford Schroeder, 28030 Ridge Cove Court, president of the Ridgegate Homeowner's
Association, stated that this is a gated residential community with 352 individually
owned houses; advised that it is managed by an elected board of governors and four
standing committees of volunteers; that the association has an annual budget of slightly
over $1 million; that its income is generated from the monthly homeowner association
fees; and mentioned that the expenses are primarily for utilities, landscaping
maintenance, insurance, personnel, administrative costs, service contracts,
maintenance repair costs, etc. Mr. Schroeder advised that this proposal is being
brought before the City Council because the traffic on Ridgegate Drive is a hazard to
school children, residents, and the service workers. He stated that this area of the
street has a P.V. Transit bus stop that is used by the school children and that special
education school buses also utilize this street for pickups /drop -offs. He advised that
vehicles routinely ignore the flashing school bus lights; and explained that Ridgegate
Drive is the only means of ingress and egress to this community for the residents and
service personnel.
Councilman Wolowicz asked if the homeowner's association had conducted any
updates on the traffic survey.
Addressing Councilman Wolowicz's inquiry,
City had conducted 2 traffic surveys, but
done any on its own.
Mr. Schroeder expressed his belief that the
that the homeowner's association had not
Bob Kaminski, 28201 Ridgecrest, president of the Miraverde Homeowner's Association,
expressed his concern with the speeding vehicles on Ridgegate Drive; explained that
for those vehicles coming out of the east complex, there is a line -of -sight problem; that
there is approximately 125 feet towards Hawthorne Boulevard; that a motorist seeking
to egress that side of the complex only has 125 feet to safely clear that intersection; and
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 29 of 37
stated that this creates an unsafe condition for all motorists and pedestrians involved.
He advised that the City's survey has shown that speeds of 45 to 50 miles per hour are
attained and that at 125 feet, it is not enough length for a vehicle to safely stop.
Mr. Kaminski stated that the Miraverde Homeowner's Association has a budget of
approximately $1 million; that it has 275 families living in the complex; and he urged the
City to do something to help rectify the speeding and safety problem in this area. He
stated that the two associations would be willing to do a traffic survey.
Charles Ingraham, 28181 Ridgecove Court South, stated that the associations are
doing all they can to make Ridgegate Drive safe; and with the aid of slides, Mr.
Ingraham highlighted the problems with the roadway. Mr. Ingraham explained that
Ridgegate Drive is approximately three - quarters of a mile long; that it is unadorned with
any stop signs; and stated that Ridgegate Drive runs through the complex, through
Miraverde, and back out again to Hawthorne Boulevard. He explained that Ridgegate
Drive was originally 1,500 feet long and that it later became 3,600 feet long to satisfy
the need of the Miraverde developer. As a result of this last development, Mr. Ingraham
explained that the associations have requested the City's help to end the increasing
speeding problem.
Mr. Ingraham advised that in 1998, the City started the Neighborhood Traffic Calming
Program; and that in 1999, the associations pleaded with the Traffic Committee and
Public Works Department to be part of this program. Mr. Ingraham explained that this
traffic calming program entitles a residential area to relief through various tools to
control traffic if 1) the traffic through a street is at least 1,500 cars per day; 2) if 64
percent of the vehicles exceed the nominal 25- mile - per -hour speed limit, which is the
citywide residential speed limit; and 3) if there is significant cut - through traffic. As a
result of working back and forth with the City, he stated that the traffic engineer
conducted approximately 4 traffic studies; that in one study, the results indicate that one
car was below 25 MPH; that 82 percent of the cars exceeded the 30 -MPH speed limit;
that most of the cut - through traffic occurs at 8:00 A.M. and again from 2:00 P.M. to 6:00
P.M.; that the number of vehicles utilizing this road each day is 3,700; and that of those
3,700 cars per day, approximately a quarter of the vehicles was cut - through traffic. Mr.
Ingraham pointed out that this community more than doubles the criteria to qualify for
assistance, both in speed and in traffic number.
Councilman Stern noted that the study also indicates a lot of the speeding is done by
the complex residents.
Mr. Ingraham stated that as a result of the studies, the associations requested to be
included in the traffic calming process; and mentioned that the street is almost three -
quarters of a mile long and that it has no stop signs, cross - walks, traffic lights or speed
humps. He stated that the associations were told by the City that because this is not
considered a residential street, it would not qualify for the traffic calming program; and
he noted that this matter appeared before the City Council in April 2003 — stating that it
was the City Council's decision for the association to gather more input from the
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 30 of 37
community in regard to this matter. He stated that the community survey indicates the
majority of the answers support the need to solve the speeding problem on Ridgegate
Drive; and expressed his belief that something needs to be done immediately to make
this a safer roadway.
Mr. Ingraham urged the City Council to allow the associations to at least put in a
temporary cul -de -sac until the street vacation process is completed; explained that the
cul -de -sac would be located approximately midway between the property line of both
communities; stated that the cul -de -sac could consist of trees in containers, barriers,
strobe lights, speed bumps, signage; and noted that the hammerhead turn - arounds
meet the Fire Department requirements. He stated that all these portable safety
devices can be bought or rented for an instant cul -de -sac and can be installed within
one week. He stated that portable speed bumps can be obtained within 24 hours; and
suggested dropping the speed limit for the cul -de -sac to 15 MPH. Mr. Ingraham stated
that the cost to each association would be approximately $4,400, approximately $10 per
homeowner in each complex. He added that the cul -de -sac would be placed far enough
back from the intersection of the main street so as not to negatively impact
traffic /pedestrian safety.
Councilman Stern questioned how this plan would stop the complex residents from
speeding.
In response to Councilman Stern's inquiry, Mr. Ingraham expressed his belief that the
cul -de -sac would automatically slow down all traffic on this street; advised that there are
at least 8 security guards in the complex who work all shifts; and that these security
guards do issue traffic citations. He noted that the residents can be cited for speeding
in the complex; stated that if the same resident is cited for speeding a second time, they
can be assessed a higher fee; and that if this person becomes a chronic offender, the
association could ultimately build up a case to foreclose on that person's property --
noting that it has happened before.
Responding to Mayor pro tem Clark's invitation to provide further input, Director Allison
explained that staff would be reluctant to put in any kind of barricade until the vacation
process has run its course. Director Allison provided input on the history of the
associations' struggle to get this speeding problem resolved; explained that the Traffic
Committee has struggled with this issue; that there is not much that can be done with
this roadway because it is technically not a residential street; that there haven't been
any accidents; and that there are no houses that front this road — all of which is relevant
in the traffic calming program. He stated that the program is aimed at allowing residents
to safely use their front yards while cars are traversing the road.
Councilman Stern expressed his belief that the erection of a couple stop signs on this
street would slow down the speeding vehicles.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 31 of 37
Addressing Councilman Stern's comment, Senior Engineer Jules explained that studies
indicate stop signs are not the best traffic calming device, believing that it does not slow
down speeders, that speeding drivers try to make up for lost time.
Councilman Stern stated that he is not eager to vacate public property and that it would
not be his first choice in finding a solution to this problem.
Councilman Wolowicz expressed his concern that this roadway cannot qualify as a
residential area; stated that he is troubled with the burden being placed on the residents
to come up with a solution to this problem; and noted his discomfort with skipping over
less severe solutions to this problem. He expressed his preference that before he
would approve a street vacation, staff should investigate less severe options to slow
down the speeding traffic in this area.
Councilman Long echoed the concerns with vacating public property; questioned what
the City will get in return for losing this asset, and how the City would go about
appraising this property.
City Manager Evans explained that the residential streets are defined in the State's
Vehicle Code by how many homes line the street, how wide the street is, etc.; and
advised that the City is restricted to the 25 MPH speed limit for a residential street. City
Manager Evans advised that there has been an enormous amount of work done by staff
on this matter; that staff has a clearer understanding of the City Council's perspective
with regard to the options; and that at this time, he would suggest that the City Council
allow staff to take this issue back for further study.
Councilman Stern expressed his belief that this proposal needs to go back to staff for
further analysis; stated that at this point, he is not in favor of a street vacation option;
that staff should investigate less drastic alternatives to solve this problem; and stated
that the residents need to obtain the required number of signatures for anything that will
be proposed.
Mayor pro tem Clark moved, seconded by Councilman Long, to direct staff to return to
City Council with a specific recommendation that has been studied to deal with the
speeding problems in this area.
Councilman Wolowicz asked that staff's investigation be done as expeditiously as
possible.
Mayor pro tem Clark thanked those in the audience for there input this evening.
There being no objection, Mayor pro tem Clark so ordered.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 32 of 37
Border Issues. (310)
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Long, to waive staff report. No
objection was noted.
The staff report recommend that the Council review the current status of border issues
and provide direction to the City Council Committee and Staff.
Because of Mayor Gardiner's absence, Mayor pro tem Clark relayed the Mayor's
concerns with the sufficiency of the technical analysis and reports related to the landfill
and stated that the Mayor had questioned whether there was any convergence of some
of the findings with what the City's consultant had found and why some of the findings
that are in the documents that City Council received were not discovered by the City's
consultant.
Councilman Stern expressed his preference that rather than replicate the same
approximately 30 -page Border Issues report, that staff place this full report on the City's
website and that staff only print for Council agenda packets those pages that include
new information, updates. No objection was noted.
With regard to Page 33 of the Border Issues report -- Shaping the Future 2025 - Release
of Los Angeles County Draft General Plan -- Councilman Long stated that when the
release of the Los Angeles County Draft General Plan occurs, that the City should focus
in particular on those unincorporated areas of the County which are adjoined /separated
by a width of no more than one house from this City.
Resol. No. 2004 -09: Budget Adjustment to allow the entire Planning Commission
to attend the 2004 Planners Institute Conference. (1203 x 602)
Staff recommended that Council ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2004 -09, APPROVING A
$5,000 BUDGET INCREASE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING, BUILDING AND
CODE ENFORCEMENT'S MEETING AND CONFERENCES BUDGET ACCOUNT.
Councilman Stern moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, to approve staff
recommendation.
Councilman Long suggested having some of the members of the new Residential
Development Standards Ad Hoc Steering Committee attend this conference.
Mayor pro tem Clark stated that the primary focus of the conference is for Planning
Commissioners to explore not only their primary duties as Commissioners, but also to
explore specific areas of interest; and noted that there is some merit to having some of
the subcommittee members attend who are working on focused areas of planning, but
stated that he is not convinced with sending the others.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 33 of 37
Councilman Long then suggested that members of the Planning Commission who are
on that committee make a point of looking for the conference forums that would be of
relevance to the new Residential Development Standards Ad Hoc Steering Committee,
making sure that the City has a representative attend those particular forums.
Councilman Stern expressed his belief that there may not be enough forums at the
conference to be of focused interest to the new Residential Development Standards Ad
Hoc Steering Committee.
The motion carried as follows:
AYES: Long, Stern, Wolowicz, Mayor pro tem Clark
NOES: None
ABSENT: Gardiner
2005 Base Realignment and Closure (BRAG) Process. (11101)
Mayor pro tem Clark recused himself from this matter and requested that Councilman
Stern act as chair for this matter. Mayor pro tem Clark then absented himself from the
City Council chambers.
Councilman Wolowicz moved to waive staff report. No objection was noted.
The staff report recommended that Council consider adopting a position of opposition to
closure or relocation of the Los Angeles Air Force Base; consider a resolution or
letter(s) in opposition to the closure; and consider a financial contribution to the Los
Angeles Air Force Base Regional Alliance.
Councilman Wolowicz advised that several South Bay cities have made contributions to
the Los Angeles Air Force Base Regional Alliance fund to help protect the Air Force
Base in El Segundo; and expressed his belief that this City should contribute to the fund
just as many of the neighboring cities have done. He stated that a significant part of the
economy of this City's residents is dependent upon this base. Councilman Wolowicz
highlighted the City's draft letter to the Secretary of Defense, wherein the letter
addresses the concern with the loss of intellectual capital -- pointing out that a major
portion of this City's residents could be faced with the prospect of relocating to another
state; and stated that this will be the first step for the City in showing its support for the
Los Angeles Air Force Base Regional Alliance. Councilman Wolowicz stated that there
would be a second milestone coming up in approximately a year in which all of the
evaluations will be studied and brought to the attention to all concerned.
Councilman Wolowicz moved that the City Council adopt a position of opposition to the
closure or relocation of the Los Angeles Air Force Base; that the City be aggressive in
writing letters related to the BRAC closure process; and that the City provide $10,000 to
the Los Angeles Air Force Base Regional Alliance.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 34 of 37
Councilman Long stated that the letter's reference to the loss of intellectual capital is
persuasive; noted his preference for the shorter and more succinct sample letter that
strongly emphasizes the loss of this intellectual capital; suggested that it might be worth
mentioning in the letter that during the times of high Federal deficits in the 1980's, that
California was a net surplus state and that it had sent more money to Washington than
it ever got back; and stated that he is inclined to support the proposal even though he
feels, in general, that the City should not get involved in issues that are not local and
that are very political in nature. He stated that he does not believe this issue can be
divorced from local issues because of the potential impact on members of this
community. With regard to donating the $10,000, Councilman Long stated that he
needs a better understanding of what the money will be used for, what the budget will
be, and what the deliverable will be.
Councilman Stern stated that the City should support the maintenance of the Air Force
Base, believing that its existence has an economic impact upon the South Bay cities
and many of this City's residents; and echoed Councilman Long's concerns with the use
and purpose of the funding. He noted that he would be more comfortable donating
$5,000 in these uncertain economical times.
Councilman Wolowicz noted that the money will be used for lobbyist activities, ad
campaigns, research issues with regard to impacts, and the overall fight to keep the
base open; and he stated that the City should be able to get some specificity on how the
alliance will be utilizing the funding.
Councilman Stern questioned if the contribution issue can be deferred to a future
Council meeting, allowing time to investigate the alliance's plans for the use of the
funding.
Councilman Wolowicz stated that he is not aware of any urgency issues for the
contributions; and advised that members of the alliance Committee are planning
presentations before various municipal City Councils to address this issue and seek
financial support.
Councilman Long requested that the Committee make a presentation before this body.
Councilman Wolowicz withdrew the $10,000 funding portion of his motion, but added
that the funding issue should be agendized as soon as possible; and that the motion
also include a funding presentation from the appropriate committee on how the alliance
will utilize the funds.
Councilman Long seconded the motion. No objection was noted.
Mayor pro tem Clark returned to the chambers and chaired the meeting.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 35 of 37
Budget Meeting Schedule for FY 04 -05. (602)
Staff recommended that Council select two dates in mid -April to early May for the City
Council budget review sessions (only one date may be necessary).
Councilman Wolowicz moved, seconded by Councilman Stern, to schedule the budget
meetings for Tuesday, April 20, 2004, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.; and Tuesday, May
4, 2004, from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Proposed City Council Workshops. (307)
Staff recommended that Council set dates and times for Council joint meetings with the
Traffic Committee and the Planning Commission.
It was the consensus of the City Council to conduct the joint meetings as follows:
Tuesday, March 30, 2004 with the Traffic Committee; and Tuesday, June 29, 2004 with
the Planning Commission.
Councilman Long questioned the need and plans for a joint workshop with the Planning
Commission; noted his concern with supporting the workshop topics /agenda in the
abstract; and noted his discomfort with the lack of knowledge of what exactly these two
bodies will be discussing at that workshop.
Addressing Councilman Long's comments, City Manager Evans explained that the
proposed topics for the workshop are tentative and that the agenda topics will be
subject to change between now and the dates of the joint meetings.
Because of the important decisions made by the Planning Commission, Mayor pro tem
Clark expressed his belief that the City Council and the Planning Commission should
jointly meet on a yearly basis in order to interact with each other and communicate
goals and objectives.
Councilman Stern expressed his support with meeting in a joint workshop manner on a
yearly basis with the Planning Commission.
Councilman Wolowicz noted his support with jointly meeting with the Planning
Commission on a yearly basis.
Councilman Long clarified that he does not want the public to get the perception that the
City Council is guiding the Planning Commission on specific cases; and stated that as
long as he feels assured the agenda won't be designed to do that, and then he would
support a workshop.
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 36 of 37
COUNCIL DISCUSSION OF FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS & SUGGESTION OF FUTURE
AGENDA ITEMS:
None.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
City Attorney Lynch stated that the City Council expressed its desire to meet in closed
session with its negotiators to give instructions on the terms of an amendment to the
City's franchise agreement with Cox Communications.
ADJOURNMENT:
At 12:54 A.M. ,
at Hesse Park,
boards.
Attest:
the City Council meeting was adjourned to 6:00 P.M., February 17, 2004,
Fireside Room, to interview candidates for chair of the various advisory
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City Clerk
WA2004 City Council Minutes\02032004 CC MINS.doc
City Council Minutes
February 3, 2004
Page 37 of 37