CC MINS 20121002 MINUTES
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 2, 2012
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M. at Fred Hesse Community Park, 29301
Hawthorne Boulevard, and was immediately recessed into Closed Session. The
meeting reconvened at 7:13 P.M. into Open Session.
City Council roll call was answered as follows:
PRESENT: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
ABSENT: None
Also present were Carolyn Lehr, City Manager; Carolynn Petru, Deputy City
Manager/Interim Director of Recreation and Parks; David Snow, Assistant City Attorney;
Dennis McLean, Director of Finance/Information Technology; Joel Rojas, Community
Development Director; Ara Mihranian, Deputy Community Development Director; Ron
Dragoo, Senior Engineer; Katie Howe, Administrative Analyst II; and, Carla Morreale,
City Clerk.
Also present were the following: Andrea Vona, Executive Director, Palos Verdes
Peninsula Land Conservancy (PVPLC); Danielle Lefer, Conservation Director, PVPLC;
and Jewel Johnson, Ranger, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority.
FLAG SALUTE:
The Flag Salute was led by Councilwoman Brooks.
MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mayor Misetich provided comments regarding the recent passing of Former Council
Member and Mayor Tom Hollingsworth, noting his many contributions to the City and
the community. He noted that Tom Hollingsworth had designed the City Logo which will
live on as a testament to his life's work and dedication to the City. He reported that
plans had been in the works for a month to present Mr. Hollingsworth with a
Proclamation honoring him and noted that the Proclamation would be sent to his sister,
Carol, in Georgia.
Ken Dyda, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he first met Tom during the community's
efforts to incorporate the City. He read a poem in honor of Tom Hollingsworth.
Diane Crogg, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she was a personal friend of Tom and
Angela Hollingsworth and shared a personal story about their gracious generosity. She
noted that Tom was a wonderful and patient caretaker of his wife, Angela, for the
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October 2, 2012
Page 1 of 17
number of years that she was ill. She commented on Tom's character and his love for
the Peninsula and community.
Larry Clark, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he learned about one month ago that
Tom Hollingsworth was not well, and in consultation with staff, a proclamation honoring
Tom was to be presented to him in person, prior to his pending move to Georgia. He
spoke of Tom's integrity, service before self, and humility.
Mayor Misetich, Councilwoman Brooks, and Councilman Knight added comments
regarding Tom's character, noting that Tom was worthy of the honor being bestowed on
him.
RECYCLE AND EMERGENCY PERSONAL PREPAREDNESS KIT DRAWING:
Mayor Misetich announced Recyclers of the Month from the September 18, 2012 City
Council meeting: Nasser Talkhooncheh and Steven Jeau. He indicated that all winners
receive a check for $250 representing a year of free refuse service and urged everyone
to participate in the City's Recycling Program. He noted that in addition to winning the
Recycler Drawing, the two individuals had also won a Personal Emergency
Preparedness Kit from the City valued at$60.00.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA:
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to approve the agenda,
as presented.
Without objection, Mayor Misetich so ordered.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: (Audience Comments regarding Items Not on the Agenda)
Bernie Slotnick, Captain of Neighborhood Watch in the Montemalaga Neighborhood,
Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that there needs to be speed limit controls on
Montemalaga Drive and commented on a recent accident on the street, where two
bystanders rescued a woman from the accident prior to her car bursting into flames. He
suggested possible traffic and speed controls including the following: raised bumps on
the street, stop signs, a traffic signal, and reflective lights on the curve.
CITY MANAGER REPORT:
City Manager Lehr announced that the Terranea Resort was the recipient of the 5th
Annual 2012 SoCal Environmental Excellence in Development (SEED) Award.
Community Development Director Rojas reported that the Terranea Resort recently
received the 2012 SEED Award for their state-of-the-art design of a storm water
management system to control water on the Resort property as well as water runoff into
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October 2, 2012
Page 2 of 17
the ocean. He also announced that the City participated in the Local First Community
Showcase held last weekend. He noted this program was sponsored by the Palos
Verdes Chamber of Commerce and was an example of the City's efforts in reaching out
to the community and providing information regarding its programs to the public.
NEW BUSINESS:
APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Morreale reported that late correspondence was distributed prior to the
meeting regarding Item No. E (August 2012 Monthly Report of Cash Balances) and Item
No. H (Authorize License Agreement for Work on Private Property Incidental to Current
Storm Drain Lining Project); and there was one request to speak regarding Item C
(Border Issues Status Report) and one request to speak regarding Item H.
Councilman Duhovic moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to approve the Consent
Calendar, with Item No. C (Border Issues Status Report) and Item No. H (Authorize
License Agreement for Work on Private Property Incidental to Current Storm Drain
Lining Project) removed from the Consent Calendar and to be heard immediately after
the Consent Calendar.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks*, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
*Councilwoman Brooks abstained from Item No. F (Appeal of the Planning
Commission's Denial of an Application Request to Trim and/or Remove Foliage at 22
Narcissa Drive (Gerrard Property) and 24 Narcissa Drive (Paulucci Property) in Order to
Restore View from 25 Narcissa Drive (Makhlouf Property) [View Restoration Permit
2011-00064]).
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.
Approval of Minutes
Approved the Minutes of the Sept 4, 2012 Regular Meeting.
Border Issues Status Report
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October 2, 2012
Page 3 of 17
This item was removed from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.
Notice of Completion for the Annual Sidewalk Repair Program, FY2011-12
(Supports 2012 City Council Goal No. 4, Public Infrastructure — Citywide Street
Maintenance)
1) Accepted the work as complete; 2) Authorized the City Clerk to file a Notice of
Completion with the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder Office and if no claims are filed
within 35 days after recordation, and upon the contractor posting an acceptable
warranty bond, notice the surety company to exonerate the Payment and Performance
bonds; and, 3) Authorized the Director of Public Works to release the 5% retention
payment in the amount of$4,719.90 to Mora's Equipment and Construction, Inc. 35
days after recordation of the Notice of Completion by the L.A. County Recorder
contingent upon no claims being filed on the project, and the contractor posting an
acceptable warranty bond.
August 2012 Monthly Report of Cash Balances
Received and filed the August 2012 Monthly Report of Cash Balances for the City of
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Appeal of the Planning Commission's Denial of an Application Request to Trim
and/or Remove Foliage at 22 Narcissa Drive (Gerrard Property) and 24 Narcissa
Drive (Paulucci Property) in Order to Restore View from 25 Narcissa Drive
(Makhlouf Property) [View Restoration Permit 2011-00064]
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2012-74, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, DENYING THE APPEAL AND AFFIRMING
THE PLANNING COMMISSION'S DECISION TO DENY THE VIEW RESTORATION
PERMIT NO. 2011-00064.
State of California Habitat Conservation Fund Project Grant— Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2012-75, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES, AUTHORIZING THE PALOS VERDES
PENINSULA LAND CONSERVANCY (PVPLC), ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES, TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION FOR THE
STATE'S 2012 HABITAT CONSERVATION FUND FOR TRAIL WORK AND HABITAT
RESTORATION AT THE PALOS VERDES NATURE PRESERVE.
Authorize License Agreement for Work on Private Property Incidental to Current
Storm Drain Lining Project (Supports 2012 City Council Goal No. 4 Public
Infrastructure)
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October 2, 2012
Page 4 of 17
This item was removed from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.
Register of Demands
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2012-76, 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.
# # # # # #
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR:
Border Issues Status Report
Hal Winton, Trails Consultant, Rolling Hills, stated that he was a Forest Service
volunteer trails leader for 20 years and Rolling Hills asked him to get involved with their
trails needs and problems with trail closures. He inquired if trails issues could be added
to the Border Issues Status Report.
Mayor Misetich explained that trails issues are not part of the Border Issues Status
Report before the Council for approval and suggested that Mr. Winton speak under
Public Comments, which is the section of the agenda for audience comments for items
not on the agenda, at a future meeting.
City Manager Lehr suggested that a staff member could contact Mr. Winton regarding
his concern pertaining to trails.
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to: receive and file the
current report on the status of Border Issues.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Authorize License Agreement for Work on Private Property Incidental to Current
Storm Drain Lining Project (Supports 2012 City Council Goal No. 4 Public
Infrastructure)
Sunshine, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that the Public Works Department will be doing
work in an area where there is a proposed trail in the Conceptual Trails Plan and an old
trail in the General Plan.
Senior Engineer Dragoo stated that there was not a trail in place, the area is overgrown,
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October 2, 2012
Page 5 of 17
and the Public Works Department was looking for access to maintain an existing storm
drain. He explained that if the City had easements on the property the Public Works
Department process would be to consider the opportunities for the creation of a trail.
City Manager Lehr suggested that Senior Engineer Dragoo write a memorandum to the
Council and Sunshine regarding this issue after additional verification of the information.
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to: 1) Approve and
Authorize the Mayor to execute License Agreements for brush clearing and other work
incidental to the ongoing storm drain lining project with owners of properties at 29040
Palos Verdes Drive East, 29048 Palos Verdes Drive East, and 2873 Colt Road, all in
Rancho Palos Verdes; and, 2) Authorize the City Attorney to make minor modifications
to the License Agreements as necessary.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC HEARING:
Use of State Funding for Supplemental Police Services — CORE Police Team
City Clerk Morreale reported that notice of the public hearing was duly published, no
written protests received, and there were no requests to speak regarding this item.
Mayor Misetich declared the public hearing open.
Deputy City Manager/Interim Director of Recreation and Parks Petru provided a brief
staff report regarding this item.
Discussion ensued among Council Members and staff.
Mayor Misetich declared the public hearing closed.
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Mayor Misetich, to: Approve the continued
use of COPS (Citizen Option for Police Services) grant in FY12-13 to partially fund the
CORE Police Team.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
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October 2, 2012
Page 6 of 17
RECESS AND RECONVENE:
Mayor Misetich called a brief recess from 7:54 P.M. to 8:05 P.M.
REGULAR BUSINESS:
Amendments to the Approved Preserve Trails Plan (PTP) for the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve (Supports 2012 City Council Goal —Trail System Enhancement)
City Clerk Morreale reported that late correspondence was distributed prior to the
meeting and there were 35 requests to speak regarding this item.
Community Development Director Rojas provided introductory remarks and a brief
recap of background information regarding the approved Preserve Trails Plan (PTP),
which has been in use since 2008 for the nearly 1400 acres of the Palos Verdes Nature
Preserve. He noted that this item was before Council as a result of the two following
issues: 1) the addition of the 190-acre Filiorum Reserve in 2009; and, 2) previous
Council direction to monitor the effectiveness of the 2008 Preserve Trails Plan.
Deputy Community Development Director Mihranian provided a detailed staff report and
PowerPoint presentation of the proposed trails plan for each of the trails in the Filiorum
Reserve; and input received from the public and other agencies at Public Workshops
regarding the 2008 Preserve Trails Plan. He reviewed the proposed 13 amendments
and two corrections to trails in the following six Reserves of the Palos Verdes Nature
Preserve: Abalone Cove Reserve; Three Sisters Reserve; Portuguese Bend Reserve;
San Ramon Reserve; Ocean Trails Reserve; and the Forrestal Reserve. He concluded
that the total trail mileage for the public's use would include 8.8 miles of pedestrian only
trails, 5.5 miles of pedestrian/equestrian trails; 5 miles of pedestrian/bicycle trails; and,
13.6 miles of multiuse trails, resulting in 32.9 miles of trails for the entire 1400 acres of
open space.
Danielle Lefer, Conservation Director, PVPLC, provided information regarding the trail
management issues they deal with including the following: habitat issues; unauthorized
spur trails; erosion due to the 2009 fire in the Preserve; closing of unauthorized trails by
fencing, planting shrubs, and placing signage; vandalism of corrective measures used
to close trails; problems with continued use of spur trails; results of a Trail User Survey
on August 25, 2012 in comparison to a previous survey in 2007; and increased
enforcement in the Preserve to reduce the number of unauthorized trails.
Barbara Ailor, Palos Verdes Estates, provided the mission and vision statements of the
PVPLC. She added that large donations were given in support of the Palos Verdes
Nature Preserve to the City of Rancho Palos Verdes and the PVPLC to be good
stewards of the land to restore, uphold and sustain natural habitat for the enjoyment of
all.
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October 2, 2012
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Jessica Zaccaro, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she is a horse owner and noted that
she has stopped riding in the Preserve due to the bicycle traffic. She noted that there
was not a need for enforcement until the bicycles were introduced to the Preserve and
noted that multiuse of the trails does not seem possible.
Tony Baker, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that as defined a preserve is an area set
aside for the protection of wildlife and natural resources. He noted that was the reason
he contributed to the Preserve.
Alvin Blain, Torrance, stated that he rides his bike in the Preserve and has not had
problems with pedestrians or equestrians in the 30 years that he has been riding.
Ken Anderson, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he is an avid horseman and a hiker
and relayed a negative experience in the Puente Hills due to an interaction with a
bicyclist. He noted that all of the dual use (equestrian and pedestrian) trails worked
well.
Larry Murakami, stated that he has utilized the trails for hiking and biking since the
1980s and noted he has not witnessed the problems with bicyclists since he has used
the trails.
Bob Endicott, San Pedro, stated that he has hiked and biked the trails for 22 years, has
worked on trail maintenance, and noted that staff has worked hard to arrive at a
compromise so that the trails can be used by all.
Michael Jost, Hawthorne, stated that he is in favor of the staffs recommendation and
relayed a recent negative incident with three equestrian riders. He suggested
equestrians, bikers, and hikers could meet to teach trail etiquette to all users.
Sean Martin, Rolling Hills Estates, stated that he is a horse trainer on the hill, is in favor
of multiuse trails where safety allows, and noted that education would help all trail users
understand trail etiquette.
Christine Campbell, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she is a hiker and noted that she
has seen the degradation and widening of the trails due to use over time, compared to
the narrow trails in the past. She noted that the vision for the Preserve was for the
peaceful use of trails.
Gigi Greene, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she owns property in the Portuguese
Bend Reserve, noted that she can see bicyclists at night with lights coming down the
Preserve Trails from Del Cerro, and has seen men taking down the fences and ropes
marking the boundaries. She added that she has met many wonderful bicyclists with
etiquette in the Preserve, but noted that for many of the bicyclists that use the Preserve,
the goal is to ride as fast as they can down the trails.
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October 2, 2012
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Anny Cayem,, Palos Verdes Estates, stated that she has been riding horses on the trails
for 32 years, but over the last 12 years has noted an increase in problems due to
mountain bicyclists. She suggested that bicyclists should use bells to warn those of
their presence, and encouraged the use of signs on the trails and color-coded maps
depicting the different trails.
Nancy Wildman, Rolling Hills Estates, stated that she is in opposition to the proposed
Trails Plan and as an avid equestrian and hiker, because she does not want to lose any
more of the peaceful and safe trails. She noted that as proposed there are over 18
miles of trails for bicyclists, and only 5 miles of trails where horses can ride safely
without a conflict with bicyclists. She added that she does not oppose bicyclists, but
instead opposes the speed at which they ride.
Jim Moore, Rolling Hills Estates, stated that all those present are neighbors and avid
users of the trails, adding that he has used the trails as an equestrian for years. He
noted that the majority of bicyclists he has encountered over the years have been
pleasant, except for those from out of the area. He added that the local people are
respectful of the trails and other trail users, and suggested that education needs to take
place for those from out of the area.
Wes Prunckle, stated that he has used the trails for over 30 years and supports staff
recommendations and noted that he has not experienced the problems between hikers,
bikers and equestrians that have been shared. He stated that he believed enforcement
could reign in the problems, suggested the use of bells on bikes, and opined that all
trails should be multiuse trails.
John Wessel, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he is a volunteer with the PVPLC
program Keeping an Extra Eye on the Preserves for Environmental Review and
Stewardship (KEEPER) and noted he was in favor of the routes proposed by staff, but
was not in favor of the multiuse of certain trails including segments that cut across
Kelvin Canyon and Rattlesnake Trail due to safety issues based on the steepness and
blind curves on the trails.
Judy Herman, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that there are many responsible bicyclists,
but that the small fraction of unruly riders has been a problem even though CORBA has
tried to educate bicyclists. She suggested that many of the steep curved trails with
banked turns should be closed to the bicyclists until the banked turns can be smoothed
out.
Vic Often, Residents Irritated by Bikes on Trails (RIBT) & environmental attorney,
Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that staffs proposal would be changing uses within the
Coastal Zone which could require Coastal Commission approval and CEQA analysis.
He opined that there may be issues regarding indemnification, liability, the danger of
narrow trails, and loss of habitat.
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October 2, 2012
Page 9 of 17
Betsy Schoettlin, stated that she is an equestrian and hiker in the area and focused her
concerns regarding bicyclists on the Landslide Scarp Trail and Ishibashi Farm Trail due
to safety issues based on the steep and narrow trails. She noted that there are portions
of the trails where it is too narrow for a biker to stop and step aside if the trail is
occupied by horses and pedestrians. She suggested setting a portion of the Preserve
aside for mountain bikers only.
Greg Lash, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he is a hiker and biker and a Veterinarian
Technician in training, raised money for the PVPLC years ago, and was in favor of the
use of the trails by all users and noted that he supported the staff recommendation.
Ruth Braswell, CORBA PV, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she has been a hiker,
runner and occasional mountain biker for 48 years, noting that she supports the staff
recommendation for tail usage. She noted that based on the Ranger reports, there are
very few issues reported regarding conflicts between user groups and suggested the
creation of a Trail User Committee with volunteers to meet monthly to address issues
that arise.
James Jonakind, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he has bicycled responsibly on the
trails for 15 years and looks forward to continuing riding with his family on the Preserve
trails. He spoke in support of the staff recommendation.
Noel Park, Rancho Palos Verdes, reiterated Ms. Ailor's comments regarding the
fragmenting of the land and the degradation of the habitat in the Preserve. He stated
that he was insulted that some people have torn down signs and carved new trails with
bicycles, noting that he believes in the preservation of the Preserve.
Mark Matthews, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he has mountain biked in the area
for 15 years; spoke in support of staffs recommendations; noted that the Rangers have
documented very few conflicts; and, spoke in favor of the education of all trail users,
additional signage, and an increase in enforcement.
James Reilly, Redondo Beach, stated that all trail users should not take a position of
superiority or entitlement, noting that none of the groups is a privileged class and that
damage is done to the trails by some in each of the user groups.
Sharon Yarber, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that the Council should be pragmatic and
encourage separate but equal use of the trails in the Preserve, and shared encounters
she has had while on her horse on Ishibashi Trail. She noted the bicyclists she has
encountered were polite, but the trails should not be multiuse due to issues regarding
line of sight and width of the trails.
Donna McLaughlin, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she has hiked the trails for years
and is a KEEPER for the PVPLC, noting she was not in favor of the Trails Plan for
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October 2, 2012
Page 10 of 17
safety reasons. She noted that Ishibashi Trail, Landslide Scarp Trail and Rattlesnake
Trail have line of sight issues and are too steep and curved to be multiuse trails.
Anne Viersen, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she has hiked for years and is a
KEEPER for the PVPLC, noting that the Preserve was to be a Preserve and not a
recreational area. She added that the only way to enjoy the Preserve safely is to have
separate single-use trails. She suggested consideration of the recommendations of the
Sierra Club.
Greg Scarich, Redondo Beach, stated that he has used the trails for 25 years and
participated in the process and workshops that led up to the current Trail Plan; spoke in
favor of multiuse trails; and recommended the approval of the staffs recommendation of
the Trails Plan.
Louisa Bonnie, Torrance, stated she has been riding in Palos Verdes area for a decade
and has been involved in the Trail Plan process. She added that she spoke with
Ranger Johnson who noted that there was nothing adverse to report about bicycle use
in the Palos Verdes Nature Preserve. She noted that she was in favor of the staffs
recommendation for the Trails Plan and suggested that several additional trails should
be considered as multiuse trails.
Troy Braswell, CORBA PV, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that the audience has
legitimate concerns, but only 50 percent of the trails in the Palos Verdes Nature
Preserve will be multiuse trails. He noted that CORBA also donated to the purchase of
the land. He recommended the use of a trail bike patrol unit with other user groups to
supplement enforcement, a suggested bell program, more prominent signs at the entry
and on the trails, and the education of all users.
Eva Cicoria, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that the City has been entrusted with the
care and keeping of the land. She noted that all trail users either walk or use the ADA
approved trails and stated that there should be safe and enjoyable trails for all to use.
She commented on the loops that are created by bicycle use; noted that PVPLC staff
stated that if there were trail standards for the trails, bikes would not be allowed on any
of them because of the narrow trails, and added that perhaps horses would not be
allowed either, but stated that there are problems with bicyclists, not equestrians.
Barbara Gleghorn, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she was not in favor of the staff
recommendation and was in opposition to the multiplication of multiuse trails in the
Preserve.
Virginia Cicoria, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she was devastated by the activities
on the Nature Preserve, which was intended to protect the land, animal life, and plant
life. She stated the Preserve was for passive use and spoke in opposition of multiuse
trails and expressed concern with the speeding bicycles in the Preserve.
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October 2, 2012
Page 11 of 17
Barry,Holchin, stated he has lived on the hill for 40 years, was opposed to the use of
mountain bikes in the Preserve, and has hiked there for years. He noted that he was
opposed to the multiuse of trails and was in favor of habitat preservation and has seen
much trail destruction by mountain bike activity on trails.
Al Sattler, Sierra Club, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that all too often when mountain
bikers have entered areas, others will cease use of the trails. He noted that one
problem with mountain bikers is downhill speed and suggested the use of a
technological speed limiting device on all bicycles in the Preserve.
Kevin Cahill, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he was in support of the multiuse of the
trails in the Preserve, noting that he has hiked and biked in the Preserve area. He
stated that no one group should be removed from the use of the Preserve and that the
focus should be on working together to find solutions and education of all user groups.
Charlene O'Neil, Palos Verdes Peninsula Horsemen's Association, Rancho Palos
Verdes, stated that the following are her concerns regarding multiuse trails: speed,
surprise, steepness, visibility, switchbacks, lines of sight, and liability.
Lowell Wedemeyer, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that he has documented the impact
of traffic on the trails at Three Sisters and Upper Filiorium, noting that high speed
mountain bikes cause 50 times more erosion damage than any other user on the trail.
He added that he has not heard from staff or the PVPLC who would be maintaining the
trails against erosion.
Jennifer Ise, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she hikes the trails in the Preserve
because they are beautiful and serene and noted she was opposed to staffs
recommendation to add more multiuse trails. She stated that many equestrian users
might be lost from the trail due to multiuse problems, and added that the Preserve is not
an amusement park.
RECESS AND RECONVENE:
Mayor Misetich called a brief recess from 9:53 P.M. to 10:01 P.M.
Discussion ensued between Council Members, staff, Assistant City Attorney Snow, and
representatives of the PVPLC.
Andrea Vona, Executive Director, PVPLC, stated that from the PVPLC's perspective,
there were no current City trails standards and the purpose of the workshop was to take
public feedback and to provide trail routes in Upper Filiorum, as a new addition to the
Preserve. She added that one of the values of the PVPLC is public access to the land
and the City Council ultimately makes the trail use recommendations for the City.
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October 2, 2012
Page 12 of 17
Danielle Lefer, Conservation Director, PVPLC stated that one of the most important
issues to the PVPLC is preservation and the idea of a Preserve, noting that the cutting
of new trails is an impact that is taken very seriously. She added that increasing
enforcement as well as the idea of a volunteer patrol unit would certainly make a
difference in the Preserve.
Councilman Duhovic moved, seconded by Councilwoman Brooks, to approve the staff
recommendation with the sections to be reviewed one at a time.
Discussion ensued among Council Members.
Jewel Johnson, Ranger, Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA),
stated that in the Santa Monica Mountains enforcement of the rules relies heavily on the
rangers, and the eyes and ears of the mountain bike units, horse units, the hot line, and
volunteer groups to conduct targeted patrols. She encouraged use of the hot line locally
and commented on unauthorized trail use; targeted patrols in the identified problem
areas; methods of patrol; gathering information from the public and volunteer groups;
and, tracking of citations issued.
Councilman Duhovic moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to extend the meeting
until midnight.
Without objection, Mayor Misetich so ordered.
Councilman Duhovic moved, seconded by Councilwoman Brooks, to approve the Trails
Plan for the Filiorum Reserve, except that the Ford Trail should be designated for
Equestrian/Pedestrian use only; with the posting of signs regarding a requirement for
bicycles to be walked in the three canyon crossing areas along the Zote's Cutacross
Trail, Kelvin Canyon Trail, and Three Sisters Trail due to poor line of sight and
steepness.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Councilman Duhovic, to adopt the staff
recommendation for the modifications to the trails within the Abalone Cove Reserve
(Item A) and Three Sisters Reserve (Item B).
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
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October 2, 2012
Page 13 of 17
ABSENT: None
Councilman Duhovic moved, seconded by Councilman Brooks, to adopt the staff
recommendation regarding modifications to the trails within the San Ramon Reserve
(Item D) and the Ocean Trails Reserve (Item E).
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Councilman Knight moved, seconded by Councilwoman Brooks, to adopt the staff
recommendation regarding modifications to the trails within the Portuguese Bend
Reserve, except that the Landslide Scarp Trail remains designated for Equestrian/
Pedestrian use; the east branch of the Ishibashi Farm Trail remains designated for
Equestrian/Pedestrian use; and, the west branch be designated for multiuse.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Mayor Misetich moved, seconded by Councilwoman Brooks, to direct staff to bring back
recommendations in the next 90 days on alternatives to address trail use conflicts,
including increased enforcement, volunteer patrols, the use of warning bells, stricter
fines, and a Trails Advisory Committee.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Councilman Knight moved, seconded by Councilwoman Brooks, to adopt the staff
recommendation regarding the 2 corrections to the Catalina Trail in the Ocean Trails
Reserve and Fossil Trail in the Forrestal Reserve.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
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October 2, 2012
Page 14 of 17
Additional discussion ensued among Council Members and staff.
RECESS AND RECONVENE:
Mayor Misetich called a brief recess from 11:26 P.M. to 11:36 P.M.
Information Technology Service Delivery Assessment Report from NexLevel
Information Technology, Inc. (Supports City Council 2012 Goal for Government
Efficiency, Fiscal Control and Transparency)
City Clerk Morreale reported that late correspondence was distributed prior to the
meeting and there was one request to speak on this item.
Director of Finance/IT McLean provided introductory remarks regarding this item and
introduced Mr. Hackelman and Mr. Griffin with the NexLevel organization.
Terry Hackelman, NexLevel, provided a detailed report and PowerPoint presentation
regarding this item including the following: aspects of the project scope and project
approach; review of the 24 Information Technology recommendations from the 2008
Management Partners Organizational Assessment Report; findings from review of the
2012 IT Infrastructure Plan; a service delivery assessment; competitive process for IT
Services; and NexLevel's recommendations.
Discussion ensued between Council Members and staff.
Pat Griffin, NexLevel, reported that the City had done extensive work regarding the IT
aspects of the Emergency Operations Plan and that the City was in excellent shape in
this area, per conversations with City Manager Lehr and Director of Finance/IT McLean.
Additional discussion ensued between Council Members and staff.
Sunshine, Rancho Palos Verdes, stated that she hopes with the item being discussed
there will be an upgraded GIS data base, since the current GIS program has incorrect
data.
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Mayor Misetich, to: 1) Receive and file the
Information Technology Service Delivery Assessment Report (the "Assessment Report")
from NexLevel Information Technology, Inc.; and, 2) Approve the Proposed IT
Assessment Implementation Plan of the recommendations made by NexLevel
Information Technology, Inc.
Mayor Misetich offered an amendment to go out for a Request for Qualifications (RFQ)
in February 2013.
City Council Minutes
October 2, 2012
Page 15 of 17
Mayor Pro Tem Campbell offered that the amendment would not preclude the City from
renegotiating its contract with PV on the Net.
Mayor Misetich agreed with this addition to the amendment.
Councilwoman Brooks, as the maker of the motion, accepted the amendment to the
original motion, as amended with Mayor Pro Tem Campbell's suggestion.
The motion, as amended, was the following: 1) Receive and file the Information
Technology Service Delivery Assessment Report (the "Assessment Report") from
NexLevel Information Technology, Inc.; 2) Approve the Proposed IT Assessment
Implementation Plan including the recommendations made by NexLevel Information
Technology, Inc.; and, 3) Direct staff to issue a Request for Qualifications as a part of a
competitive process for IT services in February 2013, which does not preclude the
renegotiation and revision of the current contract with Palos Verdes on the Net.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Ordinance Adopting a Second Tier 2% @ 60 Retirement Benefit Formula
(Supports 2012 City Council Goal of Government Efficiency, Fiscal Control and
Transparency)
Councilwoman Brooks moved, seconded by Councilman Knight, to waive the staff
report and approve the staff recommendation to: 1) ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 538U,
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES,
AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
RANCHO PALOS VERDES AND THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE
CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM FOR THE 2% @ 60
RETIREMENT BENEFIT FORMULA AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF;
and, 2) Authorize the City Clerk to execute the compliance certificates associated with
the adoption of the Second Tier 2% @ 60 retirement benefit formula.
The motion passed on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Brooks, Campbell, Duhovic, Knight, and Mayor Misetich
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS:
City Council Minutes
October 2, 2012
Page 16 of 17
Mayor Misetich moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Campbell, to defer this item until
the next Council meeting.
Without objection, Mayor Misetich so ordered.
CITY COUNCIL ORAL REPORTS:
Mayor Misetich moved, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Campbell, to defer this item until
the next Council meeting.
Without objection, Mayor Misetich so ordered.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT:
Assistant City Attorney Snow reported that with respect to the Conference with Labor
Negotiators, a report was given and no action taken.
ADJOURNMENT:
At 12:32 A.M. on October 3, 2012, Mayor Misetich adjourned m e meeting.
4101;
Mayor
Attest: Aitk“
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City Clerk
W:\City Council Minutes\2012\20121002 CC MINS.doc
City Council Minutes
October 2, 2012
Page 17 of 17