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CC MINS 20021203MINUTES RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 3, 2002 The meeting was called to order at 6:00 P.M. by Mayor McTaggart at Fred Hesse Community Park, 29301 Hawthorne Boulevard, and was immediately recessed to a closed session per the Brown Act Checklist. At 7:10 P.M., the meeting was reconvened. Roll call was answered as follows: PRESENT: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, Stern and Mayor McTaggart ABSENT: None Also present were City Manager Les Evans; Assistant City Manager Carolynn Petru; City Attorney Carol Lynch; Director of Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement Joel Rojas; Director of Public Works Dean Allison; Deputy Planning Director Gregory Pfost; Deputy Director of Public Works Don Noble; Senior Planner Kit Fox; Senior Engineer Nicole Jules; City Clerk/Administrative Services Director Jo Purcell; and Recording Secretary Bothe. Mayor pro tem Stern led the Salute to the Flag. CEREMONIAL MATTERS Mayor McTaggart thankfully presented proclamations to Eagle Scout Kenny Dusaul and Boy Scout Matthew Dusaul for their community work, refurbishing picnic tables and park benches at the Fred Hesse Park play area; and wished them well in their future endeavors. Mayor McTaggart stated that for those Boy Scouts not present at this evening's City Council meeting, he would attend a Boy Scout meeting to present the proclamations to those individuals who participated in refurbishing the picnic tables and park benches. He thanked the following Boy Scouts for their participation: Andrew Frederick; Trevor Handlemeyer; Dick Hardy; Kenny Hayashi; Ashigi Kasuga; Max Hahn; Chris Proba; Mark Rhymes; and Trent Thompson. RECYCLE DRAWING Mayor McTaggart announced the November recycle winner, John Lanford, who will receive a check for $250, which represents a year of free refuse service. He encouraged everyone to recycle. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor pro tem Stern moved, seconded by Councilwoman Ferraro, to approve the Agenda as submitted. Without objection, Mayor McTaggart so ordered. COUNCIL REORGANIZATION (306) Beatrice Simpson, 7413 Via Lorado, urged the City Council not to skip Councilwoman Ferraro in this year's rotation and to appoint her as Mayor pro tem. She commended Councilwoman Ferraro for her previous term as the Mayor of Rancho Palos Verdes. Christina Bothamley, 30714 Via La Cresta, urged the City Council to follow the reorganization protocol that has been followed for many years for selection of Mayor; and she expressed her displeasure with the City Council's action of changing the focus and direction of the Recreation and Parks Committee after the application process had been closed. Eric Paris, 29234 Stadia Hill Lane, expressed his displeasure with what he perceived as the misuse of the SOC II email list, which was widely disbursed by Mr. Tom Redfield for his personal use to express his opinion with regard to the Council reorganization; and urged this body to be a resident - friendly entity. Elizabeth Weinstein, 6895 Alta Vista, asked that this body not skip Councilwoman Ferraro in the rotation; and expressed her belief that Mayor pro tem Stern's behavior is sometimes inappropriate when Mrs. Ferraro is speaking. Damira Bacic, 2027 Von Kargan, urged the City Council to follow tradition and not skip Councilwoman Ferraro in the rotation. Ann Shaw, 30036 Via Borica, expressed her opinion that the SOC II email list was not misused; noted her belief that there is no set standard for rotation of Mayor and Mayor pro tem; and briefly addressed the importance of bringing qualified women into the electorate. Maureen Griffin, 5 Ginger Root Lane, stated that the City Council should vote as it pleases. Councilwoman Ferraro expressed her appreciation for those who spoke in support of her and the need to follow the established rotation for Mayor and Mayor pro tem positions. She highlighted what she believed is City Council policy. With the aid of a chalkboard, she highlighted the past rotations and the election votes -- pointing out that when a person has been elected, they have gone into the rotation ahead of the then Mayor. She suggested that for this year, since Mr. Stern served as Mayor pro tem, that he be appointed as Mayor; and that she, having served the longest without being Mayor, be put back into the rotation as Mayor pro tem. Councilman Clark stated that the only policy in place is the written policy that the majority vote of the City Council constitutes the policy for selection of the Mayor and Mayor pro tem. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 2 of 20 Councilwoman Ferraro said that she had in her possession a copy of the current policy and held it up for the public to see. Mayor McTaggart nominated Doug Stern as the new Mayor. There being no objection, it was so ordered. Outgoing -Mayor McTaggart expressed his enjoyment in serving as Mayor; thanked the Councilmembers for their concerted efforts on this body; and expressed his belief that this has been a very productive City Council. Councilman Clark and Councilwoman Ferraro commended outgoing -Mayor McTaggart for his term as Mayor. Newly- appointed Mayor Stern expressed his pleasure in serving on this body; noted his appreciation for being given the opportunity to serve as Mayor; stated that the past year was a very productive year for this body; and highlighted the numerous meetings the City Council had conducted. Newly- appointed Mayor Stern thanked and commended outgoing -Mayor McTaggart for his work as Mayor. On behalf of the City Council, Newly - appointed Mayor Stern presented outgoing -Mayor McTaggart with a Best Buy gift certificate. Councilman McTaggart nominated Councilwoman Ferraro as Mayor pro tem. Councilwoman Ferraro seconded her nomination as Mayor pro tem. Councilman Clark nominated Peter Gardiner as Mayor pro tem. Mayor Stern seconded the motion. Councilman Gardiner stated he would not discuss the Council policy on Mayor pro tem since this had been well discussed previously last year. He then expressed his belief that a City Council should be a resident - friendly body and noted his opinion that this was not in the recent past perceived to be the case. However, he went on to say that he believed the Council had improved its resident - friendly image in the community over the past year and that perhaps that point had been made; he then stated that he would support placing Barbara Ferraro back into the rotation as Mayor pro tem. Councilman Clark, with the permission of the second, withdrew his motion. Councilman McTaggart addressed the importance of keeping the lines of communication open with the residents in the community. Without objection, Mayor Stern so ordered the appointment of Barbara Ferraro as Mayor pro tem. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 3 of 20 RECESS AND RECONVENE Mayor Stern recessed the meeting at 7:55 P.M. and reconvened the meeting at 8:24 P.M. APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR: City Manager Evans advised that a request had been made to remove from the Consent Calendar Item No. 5, Engineering Services for City Hall Elevator, and suggested that it be considered following the Public Hearing portion of the Agenda. City Clerk Purcell highlighted Councilman McTaggart's request to remove from the Consent Calendar Item No. 7, Additional funding for Park Maintenance at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Councilman Clark asked that Item No. 8, Award of Contract for Services to Prepare an Environmental Impact Report for the Crestridge Villas Project, be removed from the Consent Calendar. With regard to the November 5, 2002 Minutes, Councilman Gardiner requested that the second paragraph on page 24 be deleted because it was a duplication. 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 Councilmembers after the reading of the title. Minutes of November 5, 2002. (301) Approved the Minutes as amended. Claim Against The City By Paul Leung Ho, Lydia Ho, and Matthew Ho. (303) Rejected the claim and directed staff to notify the claimant. Request for Fee Waiver: Case No. ZON2002- 00527. (1804) Approved the requested fee waiver. Landscape Maintenance Contracts for Parks &Trails. (1204 x 1201) (1) Awarded a contract for Landscape Maintenance for Parks and Trails to U.S. Landscape, Inc., for the period of January 1, 2003, through June 30, 2006, to U.S. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 4 of 20 Landscape, Inc.; (2) Authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract with U.S. Landscape, Inc.; and, (3) Authorized the expenditure of $90,762 for the period of January 1, 2003 through June 30, 2003. Resol. No. 2002 -99: Open Space Land Purchase. (602 x 1101) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -99; AMENDING RESOLUTION 2002 -45, THE BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002 -2003; FOR A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S GENERAL FUND TO PURCHASE OPEN SPACE LAND ADJACENT TO DEL CERRO PARK, AS PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED BY THE CITY COUNCIL. October 2002 Treasurer's Report. (602) Received and filed. Resol. No. 2002 -100: Register of Demands. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -100, 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. Councilman McTaggart moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Ferraro, to approve the Consent Calendar as amended. The motion to approve the Consent Calendar carried as reflected by the following roll call vote: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: None # # # # # # # # # # # # PUBLIC HEARINGS: Proposed 2003 -2004 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. (601) The staff report of December 3, 2002 contained the following recommendations: (1) Conduct a public hearing to receive citizen input on the proposed 2003 -2004 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program; (2) Approve the proposed CDBG projects and budget; and, (3) Authorize the Director of Public Works to execute agreements for CDBG projects with the Los Angeles County Community Development Commission. Councilman Gardiner moved to waive staff report. No objection was noted. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 5 of 20 Councilman Gardiner moved, seconded by Councilman Clark, to concur with staff's recommendation. The motion to approve carried as reflected by the following roll call vote: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: None Engineering Services for City Hall Elevator. (1204 x 1201) Director Allison presented staff's recommendation to (1) Award an engineering contract to John Cruickshank, Inc., for preliminary engineering services for the design of an elevator at City Hall, in an amount not to exceed $6,400; and (2) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract with John Cruickshank, Inc. Councilman Clark requested clarification on the priority list for City facilities still needing to comply with ADA requirements. Director Allison explained that the placement of the City Hall elevator is near the top of the priority list; and that the elevator will remove a large barrier for those individuals who visit and work at City Hall who need to get to the second floor. Director Allison noted for Councilman Clark that a copy of the ADA priority list will be provided to the City Council. City Manager Evans explained that a study had concluded that City Hall has a large number of ADA compliant deficiencies; and he pointed out that there are many employees, volunteers and visitors who have trouble climbing the stairs. Director Allison noted for Mayor Stern that the elevator will cost approximately $200,000. Councilman McTaggart highlighted the need to get the engineering study under way and the need to comply with ADA regulations; and addressed his concerns with liability issues. Mayor pro tem Ferraro noted her opposition to delaying the engineering study and noted her interest in reviewing the ADA priority list. Councilman Gardiner stated that he would like to review the priority list prior to making a decision and to view the costs associated with each project. Councilman Clark requested that the ADA priority list be provided to the City Council and that this matter be addressed at the next meeting. City Manager Evans pointed out that the study was done a number of years ago and that the cost estimates most likely are outdated. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 6 of 20 Mayor Stern noted his desire to view the approximate cost estimates. Councilman McTaggart moved, seconded by Councilman Clark, to continue this item to the next meeting wherein additional information regarding the list of ADA prioritization will be available. There being no objection, it was so ordered. Resol. No. 2002 -101: Point Vicente Interpretive Center Park Maintenance. (1201 x 1204) Director Allison presented staffs recommendation to (1) Adopt Resolution No. 2002- 101, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING RESOLUTION. NO. 2002 -45, THE BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002 -03 FOR A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S GENERAL FUND PARKS AND TRAILS MAINTENANCE. (2) Authorize the expenditure of up to $19,000 for maintenance services to prepare for the re- opening of a portion of the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Director Allison advised that following a meeting with the docents, they requested that consideration be given to the placement of a trailer for this site, which will provide a place for the docents to do their paperwork; and stated that staff can present at the next meeting some cost estimates for additional funding for a trailer. Councilman McTaggart noted his support for the placement of a trailer at this site; and suggested that attempts also be made to find a used one that a company would like to donate. Vic Quirarte, 29369 Quailwood, commended Director Allison for keeping those interested apprised as to the progress at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center; and stated that he is looking forward to the opening of the Interpretive Center and working with Senior Engineer Nichole Jules. He added that a trailer would be very helpful to the docents. Mayor Stern expressed his appreciation for the docents' efforts. Joan Barry, 30770 Granada Drive, President of Los Serenos de Point Vicente, expressed her excitement with the re- opening of the Interpretive Center and its reintroduction to the public; and noted plans to display a few exhibits for the visitors. Ms. Barry stated that the docents would be willing to staff this facility; and she thanked and commended Director Allison and Senior Engineer Jules for their part in this project. Bill Lama, 28 Via Porto Grande, stated that he is one of the Point Vicente Interpretive Center docents; noted his support for the need of a trailer to help facilitate the activities at this site; and pointed out that there has been great interest in the re- opening of the Interpretive Center. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 7 of 20 Councilman McTaggart moved, seconded by Councilman Clark, to concur with staff recommendation and moved that information concerning the cost of obtaining a trailer be brought back to the next City Council meeting for consideration. The motion to approve carried as reflected by the following roll call vote: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: None Crestridge Villas Project: Award of Contract for Environmental Impact Report. (701) Deputy Planning Director Pfost presented staff recommendation to authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to sign a professional services agreement in an amount not to exceed $102,275.00 with RBF Consulting, to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Crestridge Villas Project on property located at the northwest corner of Crestridge Road and Crenshaw Boulevard. Councilman Clark addressed his discomfort with signing a professional services agreement prior to receiving Standard Pacific Homes' application to do work on this project; and he noted his preference that consideration be given to signing the agreement once the application has been submitted for this project and thoroughly reviewed by staff to make sure it is complete. Councilman Gardiner echoed Councilman Clark's comments. City Manager Evans stated that the sole purpose of this proposal was to compress the timeline for when the application comes in. Councilman McTaggart stated that he is not opposed to staff attempting to reduce the timeline for various activities when appropriate; but he reiterated his and two other Councilmembers' concerns for this proposed project and its likely defeat for approval as currently proposed. City Manager Evans stated that Standard Pacific Homes' would be submitting its application in January and explained that approval at this time would authorize the award of this contract subject to the developer submitting an application. Councilman Clark noted his concern that various components of this project are still unresolved. City Manager Evans stated that no work would be done by the EIR consultant until the application is deemed complete. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 8 of 20 Mayor pro tem Ferraro noted her support for what she understands to be more of a procedural matter and that it in no way implies approval for RBF to start the EIR activities. Councilman Gardiner stated that he would support this effort in order to trim some time off the process as long as it does not obligate the City in any way. Councilman Clark reiterated his opposition to this process. City Manager Evans advised that staff would then withdraw this request from the Agenda. Councilman Clark asked that staff bring this matter back to the City Council for consideration once staff has deemed the submitted application to be complete. RECESS AND RECONVENE Mayor Stern recessed the meeting at 8:57 P.M. and reconvened the meeting at 9:07 P.M. CITY COUNCIL ORAL REPORTS: Councilman Clark advised that the Ocean Trails subcommittee that morning; that the Doug Wilson Company indicated that it was exiting the project and that the company representatives had expressed their compliments to City staff for its hard work and professionalism. He stated that the Coastal Commission staff would do a site walk - through on Wednesday afternoon; and noted that the Coastal Commission has some concerns with regard to the Delta 3 plan for the grading around Hole 18. Councilman Clark stated that the Palos Verdes Drive East detour traffic plan is currently under development; and advised that Director Allison and his staff are working with the new Ocean Trails representatives to put together a comprehensive project program, which will be presented to the City Council when completed. He added that the detour plans in terms of physical placement will commence near the end of January 2003. Councilman Clark stated that he attended the packed meeting at the El Segundo City Hall Council Chambers in regard to the proposed 310 area code change; and noted that discussion included potential ways to avoid having to split to another area code, such as implementing a technical overlay to service modems versus that of personal phone numbers and the ability to migrate one's phone number from one instrument to another. Councilman Stern echoed the compliments to City staff from the Doug Wilson Company. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 9 of 20 Councilman McTaggart highlighted his busy day following the last City Council meeting, wherein he attended the following meetings: Mayor's Breakfast, Mayor's Lunch, Sanitation District, and the Contract Cities Association. He stated that on December 21St, he attended the SCAG Growth Visioning Committee meeting downtown, wherein the group agreed on a logo for the Growth Visioning process; that he attended the Solid Waste Task Force meeting in Alhambra later that day on the 21st, wherein a presentation was given on New Zealand's Zero Waste program; and that he attended a meeting yesterday to discuss the City's Education Channel. Mayor pro tem Ferraro advised that P.V. Transit would be providing various shuttle service throughout the City during the Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations and that a public service announcement will be forthcoming to announce this service. Councilman Gardiner stated that he attended a workshop to address the plans for the City's Educational Channel; noted that Cox Cable has expressed its interest and enthusiasm with this effort; and advised that this issue, alon with a recommendation, will come back before the City Council on December 17 Councilman Gardiner advised that Assemblyman Lowenthal will be walking the landfill site on Friday at 2:00 P.M. and addressing related concerns. Councilman Gardiner noted that he (Gardiner) would be attending the landfill walk as a member of the community, not as a City Councilmember. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Charles Johnson, 30219 Via Borica, commented on the difficulty of senior citizens handling the residential green waste containers; and urged the City to replace these containers with ones that have wheels. City Manager Evans advised that the containers were selected by the previous City Council; and noted that it is his intent to bring this matter to the City Council at a later time with a proposal to offer the residents a choice of waste containers. Lois Larue, 3136 Barkentine Road, stated that she is impressed with the Christmas decorations throughout the City; and she thanked Councilman McTaggart for his assistance with her attempts to donate some family possessions. Ms. Larue expressed appreciation for Councilman Gardiner's email response to a resident who wrote about his concern for clay capping at the Ocean Trails site. Bill Griffin, 5 Ginger Root Lane, commended the City for keeping the developing trails available to the public, noting that he regularly enjoys using the undeveloped dirt trails and service roads around the upper Portuguese Bend area; and commented on the increasing fencing off of these areas in recent years. He pointed out that the Filiorum trails and other sites throughout the City have been opened and frequently used by the public for many decades for purposes of biking, hiking, running, and horseback riding; City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 10 of 20 and questioned whether the public can be prohibited from using these trails and whether adverse possession could be sought to save these areas for public use. City Attorney Lynch advised that the Filiorum property is now owned by the York Company; commented on the issue of adverse possession and the open and notorious use of a property by individuals over a period exceeding five years; and explained that in terms of litigation, the issue of adverse possession would have to be asserted by private individuals, not the City, who have used the property for years. Bill Baumann, 17 Cottonwood Circle, President of Peninsula Seniors, on behalf of the Peninsula Seniors, thanked the City for support of its town hall meeting facility; and thanked those responsible for videotaping the town hall meeting, which is being shown on cable television. Mr. Baumann stated that a lot of positive feedback is being received for the proposed Belmont Village Senior Center. He pointed out that the number of people attending the meeting far exceeded what had been expected. REGULAR BUSINESS: Resol. No. 2002 -102: Traffic Calming: Via Rivera. (1502) Senior Engineer Jules presented the staff recommendation to (1) Receive information regarding radar photo- enforcement for automated speed control; (2) Approve the installation of speed humps along Via Rivera between Rue de la Pierre and Via Del Mar in accordance with the City's Traffic Calming Program; (3) Authorize the expenditure of up to $40,000 for the final engineering and construction of speed humps, signs and pavement markings along Via Rivera; and, (4) ADOPT RESOLUTION 2002 -102, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING RESOLUTION 2002 -45, THE BUDGET RESOLUTION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002 -03, FOR A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S GAS TAX FUND. James Sweeney, 30903 Via Riviera, stated that the speed humps on Basswood have worked well to slow the traffic; and noted his support for speed humps on Via Riviera. He addressed his concerns with the safety of pedestrians and residents in this area. Sheri Robertson, 30841 Via Riviera, expressed her belief that Via Rivera is a dangerous street due to the large number of drivers who are not obeying the speed limits; and she urged the City Council to support the Traffic Committee's recommendation to install speed humps in this area. Ms. Robertson noted for Councilman Gardiner that the excessive speeding occurs throughout the entire day, but that it picks up during the hours that the children are dropped off and picked up from school. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 11 of 20 Ms. Robertson stated for Councilman Clark that it has been her experience with the emergency services that they respond very quickly to calls and that it is her belief the speed humps would not have an adverse impact on an emergency situation. Sharon Goodrich, 30143 Via Rivera, stated that she lives at the end of Via Rivera; noted that she has not been surveyed for traffic issues on this street; pointed out that because she lives all the way at the end of Via Rivera, she and her next door neighbors would be exposed to a greater number of speed humps than most of the residents living in the area; and addressed her concern with the large number of elderly people living in this area and the probable delayed service by emergency services and the increased wear and tear on her vehicle. She expressed her belief that the speed signs are helpful and noted her support for the inexpensive speed display boards. Bonnie Osias, 7207 Rue La Fleur, noted her support for the speed humps. Robert Harms, 30235 Via Rivera, expressed his belief that the majority of the residents who were surveyed were in opposition to the speed humps; stated that every street in the neighborhood has a speeding problem; addressed his concern with the possibility of damage to emergency vehicles and delayed service; and suggested that the speed displays be used throughout the City and that the Sheriff be more proactive in issuing traffic citations for those exceeding the speed limits throughout the City. Ann Shaw, 30036 Via Borica, noted her opposition to speed humps; expressed her belief that the speed humps will cause a delay in emergency service; and highlighted the critical seconds and minutes it can take to save a life. Ken Denzel, 30802 Via Rivera, stated that there is a speed problem on this street and advised that he has reported to the Sheriff's Department some of those who are responsible for the speeding. Greg Reinhardt, 30829 Via Rivera, expressed his concern with the safety of the pedestrians and those living in this neighborhood; and noted his support for the speed humps. He stated that the speed limits are exceeded throughout the entire day, not just at the beginning and end of school hours. Kathy Anderson, 30219 Via Rivera, expressed her belief that the speeding traffic is not a continual activity; noted her concern that the speed humps may cause damage to emergency vehicles and delay the precious moments it takes for emergency services to get to those in need; and noted her support for the speed display boards and the increased traffic enforcement by the Sheriff's Department. Denise Cohen, 30224 Via Rivera, noted her support for the speed humps and the enforcement of the 25- mile - per -hour speed law. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 12 of 20 Bill Schurmer, Chair of the Traffic Committee, commented on the Traffic Committee's work and study on this issue; and stated that no documented cases could be found to support the claim that the speed humps cause emergency vehicle damage or delayed emergency services. He confirmed that the Fire Department is against the use of speed humps and noted the Fire Department's willingness to work with the City to address various trade -offs. Mr. Schurmer noted for Councilman Clark that one of the concerns by a member on the Traffic Committee who voted against the speed humps was partly due to a belief that the speed humps would have negative impact upon the property values. Councilman Gardiner thanked the Traffic Committee and others who worked tirelessly on this issue; and commented on the trade -offs between the possibility of delay of emergency services and damage to emergency vehicles versus that of pedestrian /traffic safety. He noted his preference to get started on the use of speed display boards, coupled with random enforcement and citations given by the Sheriff's Department — noting his belief that these increased, random activities will have a cumulative impact. He asked if the City could increase the dollar amount of traffic fines. Mr. Schurmer expressed his belief that the speed display boards are only effective if used for a controlled, short period of time in different locations; and stated that legal enforcement is what is needed to slow the vehicles down. Councilman McTaggart expressed his belief that speed display boards are helpful to slow the traffic down. Mr. Schurmer stated that the use of decoy police cars is also effective for a limited period of time. Councilman Clark thanked and commended the Traffic Committee for its work on this matter; and expressed his belief that an increased police presence and proactive enforcement/citations will slow the traffic down. Lieutenant Herrera noted for Councilman McTaggart that for the current calendar year, 16 citations have been given for speed in this area between the hours of 7:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.; advised that there are two traffic deputies who serve this City as well as two other peninsula cities; and stated that the number of citations given for this period of time may be low due to the lack of officers available to enforce the traffic activity on this street. City Attorney Lynch noted for Councilman Gardiner that the traffic fines are set by the State; and stated that she is not sure how much of the speeding citation revenues the City realizes. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 13 of 20 Jim Jones, 2747 Vista Mesa, noted his support for the speed humps; explained that the speed humps have been designed so that a car can safely travel the speed limit while traveling over the speed humps; and expressed his belief that the speed humps will not adversely impact the emergency services in this area. RECESS AND RECONVENE Mayor Stern recessed the meeting at 10:29 P.M. and reconvened the meeting at 10:35 P.M. Steve Martin, Fire Department Battalion Chief, #14, advised that it is the policy of the Los Angeles County Fire Department to oppose speed humps due to safety concerns; and confirmed that there is no documented evidence to support the notion that the speed humps damage or delay emergency vehicles, but cited some minor damage to one of this department's heaviest emergency vehicles as a result of traversing a local speed bump. Battalion Chief Martin mentioned that the cities of Pasadena and Monrovia removed the speed humps ,that were installed in those cities. Battalion Chief Martin noted for Mayor pro tem Ferraro that the L.A. County Fire Department policy includes opposition to both speed humps and speed bumps. Barry Hildebrand, 3560 Vigilance, noted his support for speed humps and stated that none of the Fire Department personnel he talked to was able to recall any damage to any emergency vehicle as a result of speed humps. Councilman McTaggart noted his support for increased enforcement with the use of motorcycle officers, decoy police cars, and speed display boards. Mayor pro tem Ferraro commented on the success of the speed humps on Basswood; and noted her inclination to concur with the Traffic Committee's recommendation — pointing out that the majority of people most impacted by the speeding vehicles are in support of the speed humps. Mayor Stern expressed his belief that the speed display boards and increased law enforcement will only have a temporary effect; pointed out that when law enforcement resources are moved from one neighborhood, it impacts another neighborhood; and stated that he would be more inclined to concur with the Traffic Committee's recommendation at this point in time. Councilman Gardiner suggested that the increased and random law enforcement activity be put in place over a long period of time and stated that he would support the speed humps as a last resort; and requested that during the period of increased enforcement speed detector strips be put on the street to determine what, if any, City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 14 of 20 improvements have been made in slowing down the traffic that the changes could track over time. Councilman McTaggart stated that increased, random law enforcement should be implemented and that this enforcement, preferably motorcycle patrols, should be shared with other schools experiencing speeding problems. He reiterated his support for including decoy police cars. Councilman Gardiner suggested that these random enforcement activities take place throughout the entire City. City Manager Evans noted for Mayor pro tem Ferraro that the City will pay for the increased law enforcement activities with General Fund monies. Councilman Clark requested that these activities (speed display boards, decoy police cars, citations) go into effect immediately on Via Rivera and that it be used in other areas experiencing speeding problems; and that this program be assessed after a 3- month period to determine its effectiveness. Councilman Gardiner reiterated his suggestion for the use of speed strips in the roadway to help with the assessment of the program. Director Allison stated that staff will return with an overall plan for increased law enforcement activity and noted that the City's two speed display boards will be put in place tomorrow, Councilman Gardiner requested that the increased law enforcement be put in place the next day. Councilman Clark requested that a status report be provided this Friday in terms of how many citations have been given out with the start of this pilot program. Councilman Gardiner moved that the two speed display boards be put in place immediately; that immediate and random law enforcement activities commence on Via Rivera; that staff generate a report/plan that will indicate the budget/resources that will be required for the most cost - effective way to cover the increased law enforcement activities and data collection method of measuring and verifying the impact over time; that the plan be designed as a 3 -month pilot plan; and that a report be presented to the City Council in sufficient time so that it can make a decision prior to the expiration of the pilot program. Director Allison noted for Councilman McTaggart that staff will investigate whether any grant money is available for this increased enforcement. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 15 of 20 Councilman Gardiner added to the motion that staff investigate the availability of grant funding for this program. Mayor Stern requested that staff explore the feasibility of obtaining more revenues from the traffic citations given in this City. Councilman McTaggart seconded the motion. No objection was noted. City Attorney Lynch noted for Councilman McTaggart that she will investigate whether this City can increase the school zone distance and increase the traffic fines in this zone. Resol. No. 2002 -103: Ryan Park Improvement Project. (1201 x 1204 x 602) Deputy Director Noble presented staff report and the recommendation to (1) Award a contract for the construction of the Ryan Park Improvement Project to Vido Samarzich, Inc., for an amount not to exceed $173,183 and authorize staff to spend an additional $17,318 for possible extra work, for a total authorization of $190,501. (2) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract with Vido Samarzich, Inc. (3) Authorize the expenditure of up to $6,500 for inspection services with SA Associates. (4) ADOPT RESOLUTION 2002 -103, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS AMENDING RESOLUTION 2002 -45, THE BUDGET APPROPRIATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002 -2003, FOR A BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S QUIMBY AND SOLID WASTE FUNDS. Deputy Director Noble noted that the grant from the California Waste Management Board is for the new playground equipment; that the new equipment has been made with recycled materials; and that staff will explore the possibility of obtaining storm drain improvement grants to cover the purchase of storm drain strainers. Councilman Gardiner reiterated his opposition to the replacement of the older playground equipment with that of plastic playground equipment — pointing out that the older equipment was sturdy, safe, and in good repair and well liked by the community. He mentioned that he is not opposed to ADA compliance. Councilman Clark pointed out that the current safety standards for playground equipment in areas of the City do not meet the ADA safety standards and that this places the City in a liable position. Mayor pro tem Ferraro moved, seconded by Councilman McTaggart, to approve staff recommendation. This motion carried as follows: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: Gardiner City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 16 of 20 RECESS AND RECONVENE Mayor Stern recessed the meeting at 11:25 P.M. and reconvened the meeting at 11:32 P.M. Engineering Services for Alta Mira Canyon. (1204 x 604) Councilman Gardiner moved, seconded by Mayor pro tern Ferraro, to waive staff report. Staff recommended: (1) Award an engineering contract to GeoSyntec Consultants in an amount not to exceed $ 7,566 and authorize the expenditure of up to $ 1,200 for extra services, for a total authorization of $ 8,766; and, (2) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute a contract with GeoSyntec Consultants. Councilman Gardiner moved, seconded by Mayor pro tern Ferraro, to approve staff recommendation. This motion carried as follows: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: None Border Issues. (310) City Clerk Purcell noted that a supplemental staff report had been distributed to the City Council in regard to the soils contamination near Green Hills Cemetery. Senior Planner Fox briefly reviewed the current status of border issues. No action was taken. Ergonomic Retrofit of City Hall Furniture and Equipment. (302) Mayor Stern moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Ferraro, to waive staff report. Staff recommended: (1) Award a contract to Ergonomic Resources in the amount of the January 4, 2002 bid price of $68,535.52 to supply, deliver and install ergonomic equipment and furniture in various City Hall offices; (2) Approve Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $6,833.83 to cover the costs resulting from structural changes to City offices; and, (3) Authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute said contract with Ergonomic Resources. Mayor pro tern Ferraro moved, seconded by Councilman Gardiner, to concur with staff City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 17 of 20 recommendation. This motion carried as follows: AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, McTaggart and Mayor Stern NOES: None Interview of Candidates for Committee and Commission Chairs. (301 x 106) Staff recommended that Council set a date to interview the candidates for Chair of their respective committee, commission and task force. Staff recommended recommendation to set the interview for Tuesday, January 7, 2003, at 6:00 P.M. Councilman Gardiner suggested that because the two task forces are just getting under way, that no change be made to the Chair positions for those bodies; and suggested that the only change be made to the Planning Commission. Councilman McTaggart noted his concurrence with Councilman Gardiner's suggestion. Councilman Clark noted, echoed by Mayor Stern, his concurrence with leaving the two task forces as is; but noted his preference that the interview process go forth for the rest of the bodies. Councilman Clark mentioned that some of the Chairs might have taken on the lead role knowing that it was only for a one -year period. Councilman Gardiner stated that there is some merit to having two -year terms for Chairs. Mayor pro tem Ferraro noted her support for leaving the task force Chairs as is. With the exception of the task forces, Mayor Stern directed the City Clerk to notify each member of the Commission, Committee bodies of the Chair interview process scheduled for January 7, 2003. City Council Meetings &Conferences Budget. (602 x 306) City Manager Evans presented staff report and the alternatives for the possible reallocation of the City Council Meeting and Conference budget. Councilman Gardiner noted his support for taking some of his unused travel funding and reallocating it as necessary to other City Councilmembers who might need it; and noted his support for the last alternative listed in staff report. Mayor pro tem Ferraro noted her support for the first alternative; and stated that it is important for the members who can travel to various conferences to be able to do so. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 18 of 20 Councilman Clark suggested that this budget be reviewed for a possible increase during the next budget cycle; and noted his support for reallocation and staying within the budget amount allowed. City Manager Evans confirmed for Mayor Stern that historically, the Rancho Palos Verdes City Council has not come close to going over budget for travel expenses. Councilman McTaggart noted his support for reallocation of the funds available and for Alternative No. 2. City Manager Evans advised that he will closely monitor the City Council Meeting and Conference budget so that it is not exceeded. Mayor pro tem Ferraro moved, seconded by Councilman Gardiner, to consider the total sum pool from which any of the City Councilmembers can draw from as needed for their travel budget; and that the City Manager closely monitor the travel funds so that the budget is not exceeded. There being no objection, Mayor Stern so ordered. Elected Officials Forum for the Peninsula. (310) Staff recommended authorizing the Mayor on behalf of the City Council to send correspondence to the other Peninsula city councils, and the PV School and Library boards, modifying the RPV Council's previously conveyed proposal regarding the formation of a new Peninsula -wide elected officials standing committee to an ad hoc issue based forum of the Peninsula elected officials. Councilman Clark commented on the possible formation of a body that would attempt to bring sister peninsula jurisdictions together to constructively discuss peninsula -wide issues; commented on the concerns of creating a new standing body of peninsula -wide elected officials and the implications of extra meetings, support and jurisdictional issues; and suggested amending the original proposal that the peninsula -wide elected officials body be an issue -based forum, an ad hoc issue based forum that would meet as deemed appropriate to discuss peninsula -wide issues. He suggested that Mayor Stern, on this City's behalf, send out new correspondence that amends /clarifies this change. He proposed that the first subject to address would be the needs of youth in terms of recreational facilities. Todd Anderson, 2 Masongate Drive, commended this City Council on its leadership role in addressing various issues on a peninsula -wide basis; noted his support for an elected officials ad hoc committee; and commented on the limited number of recreational sites which serve the needs of area youth. He added that regulation sized facilities are necessary for sports leagues. City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 19 of 20 Councilman Clark moved, seconded by Councilman Gardiner, to concur with staff recommendation. There being no opposition, Mayor Stern so ordered. CITY ATTORNEY CLOSED SESSION REPORT: City Attorney Lynch advised that no action was taken, with the exception of City Council's unanimous approval of the settlement agreement between the City and the Shahin's. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 12:02 A.M. on motion o 714. te Mayo Attest: City Clerk WA2002 City Council Minutes \12032002 cc mins.doc City Council Minutes December 3, 2002 Page 20 of 20