CC MINS 20020219MINUTES
RANCHO PALOS VERDES CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 19, 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 7:02 P.M. the meeting reconvened.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, led by City Manager Evans, 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; Director of Finance Dennis McLean;
Senior Planner Ara Mihranian; City Clerk/Administrative Services Director Jo Purcell;
and Recording Secretary Denise Bothe.
RECYCLE DRAWING:
The winner from the last drawing, Larry Helfman, will receive a check for $250, which
represents a year of free refuse service. Another card was selected.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
City Clerk Purcell advised that the applicant's attorney for the Appeal of the Planning
Commission's Conditional Approval of Conditional Use Permit No. 230 has requested
that the item be continued to the March 19th meeting. She advised that staff requested
that the items regarding California Redemption Value Payments by Ivy Rubbish
Disposal and Modification to the Signal at Hawthorne Boulevard and Highridge Road be
placed on a future Agenda.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, to approve the
agenda as amended. Motion carried.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT CALENDAR:
City Clerk Purcell briefly highlighted the changes to the minutes.
Councilman Gardiner requested that the award of contract for services to prepare an
Environmental Impact Report for proposed improvements to Marymount College be
pulled from the Consent Calendar.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, to approve the
Consent Calendar, as amended.
Lois Larue, 3136 Barkentine Road, addressed the brevity of her comments in the
minutes of December 18, 2001 and requested that her comments be reflected in full.
Rebecca Orchard, owner /operator of the Body Workshop on Western Avenue,
requested clarification on what the City is proposing to adopt in regard to County Codes
for massage establishments -- noting that she has successfully been in this business for
approximately eight years.
Addressing Ms. Orchard's inquiry, City Attorney Lynch stated that, at this point, there
are no exemptions for any existing businesses; that staff has suggested to City Council
that these County regulations be put in place; and she suggested that if Ms. Orchard
has particular areas of concern, that she put it in writing and forward it to staff for input.
City Attorney Lynch expressed her belief that City Council had not necessarily intended
that this licensing matter be concluded, but that staff is attempting to get a licensing
mechanism in place.
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 December 18, 2001 and February 5, 2002 (301)
Approved the Minutes as amended.
Household Hazardous Waste Round -Up Siting Liability Agreement with Los
Angeles County (1204 x 1402)
Authorized the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute the attached Household Hazardous
Waste Collection Program Siting Liability Agreement with the County of Los Angeles
and County Sanitation District No. 2 of Los Angeles County.
Resol. No. 2002 -08 - Funding Request for Beverage Container Recycling and
Litter Cleanup Activities for Fiscal Year 2001 -2002 and Fiscal Year 2002 -2003
(1204 x 1301 )
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 2
(1) Authorized the submittal of the funding request form to the Department of
Conservation's Division of Recycling for funding programs related to beverage
container recycling and litter cleanup activities for Fiscal Year 2002 -2002 and Fiscal
Year 2002 -2003. (2) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -08, A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AUTHORIZING
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO EXECUTE ALL NECESSARY FORMS FOR
THE PURPOSE OF SECURING PAYMENTS AND IMPLEMENTING AND CARRYING
OUT THE PROGRAMS.
Notice of Completion for Pipe Repairs Near Palos Verdes Drive South and
Peppertree Drive (1204 x 604)
(1) Accepted the work as complete. (2) Authorized the City Clerk to file the Notice of
Completion with the County Recorder.
Ordinance No. 373 — Ordinance Establishing New Regulations Applicable to the
Issuance of Business Permits and the Regulations of Massage Establishments
and Massage Technicians Operating in the City (1101 x 1103)
Adopted Ordinance No. 373, an ordinance of the city of Rancho Palos Verdes adopting
by reference Division 1 of Title 7 (General Licensing Procedures) and Chapter 7.54 of
Division 2 of Title 7 (Massage) of the Los Angeles County Code and amending the
Rancho Palos Verdes Municipal Code. (This ordinance was re- introduced at the
February 7th Meeting.)
Employee Service Recognition Program (11101 x 1202)
Adopted City Council Policy No. 11 regarding the Employee Recognition Program.
Code Enforcement Case No. COD2001- 00025: Status Report on Non - Permitted
Commercial Antennae at 5905 Mossbank Drive (1203 x 1801)
Received and filed, and provide further direction to staff.
Resol. No. 2002 -09 - Register of Demands (602)
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -09, 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.
The motion to approve the Consent Calendar carried on the following roll call vote:
AYES: Clark, Ferraro, Gardiner, Stern, and Mayor McTaggart
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 3
NOES: None
# #
Award of contract for services to prepare an Environmental Impact Report for
proposed improvements to Marymount College (30800 Palos Verdes Drive East)
(1203 x 1804)
Staff recommendation was to authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to sign a
professional service agreement in an amount not to exceed $134,905 with RBF
Consulting, to prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Marymount
College Facilities Expansion Project at 30800 Palos Verdes Drive East.
In response to Councilman Gardiner's concerns of potential neighborhood opposition,
City Attorney Lynch explained that under State law, the City is required to process
complete applications once they are submitted; that if the City Council has concerns
about the potential success of a project as a result of neighborhood opposition, staff
could communicate those concerns to the Applicant; advised that staff is expecting to
discuss these neighborhood concerns at the EIR scoping meeting; and that the
residents will be able to voice their concerns at that same meeting with the Applicants.
She stated that the City Council's sensitivity to neighborhood opposition would be
communicated to the Applicants.
Director Rojas explained that the scoping meeting happens very early on in the
process; that it is the public's first opportunity to formally voice their concerns; and
stated that staff will also communicate to the Applicant the City's concerns with regard
to the proposal.
Addressing Councilman Clark's concern with regard to possible conflict of interest, City
Attorney Lynch explained that a Councilmember owning property within 500 feet of this
project is required under the law to abstain from consideration and /or that a
Councilmember beyond that 500 feet who is financially impacted by this project must
abstain from consideration. Having taken a prior position with the homeowners
association in regard to the Applicant's proposal, City Attorney Lynch stated that if
Councilman Clark believes he had previously committed himself to the position of the
homeowners association, she suggested that he abstain from consideration of this
proposal. She reiterated that the two legal issues for conflict of interest are the 500 -foot
radius and the economic impact.
City Attorney Lynch explained for Councilman Gardiner that if Councilman Clark now is
taking the position that he can be objective, as long as he is outside of the 500 -foot
radius and as long as his property will not be financially impacted, then he could
participate.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 4
Councilman Gardiner clarified that he is not prejudging the application, but that he is
announcing he is very sensitive to the concerns and opposition of the residents; and
that he would like to see take place a mutually agreeable mechanism for all parties to
address this proposal before unnecessary money is spent on the Applicant's behalf.
City Attorney Lynch advised that staff would communicate Councilman Gardener's
sentiments to the Applicant as well as those concerns from the residents and staff.
Councilman Clark requested that staff provide confirmation as to what distance each of
the City Councilmembers' residences are from the Applicant's proposed project.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Mayor MCTaggart, to concur with staff's
recommendation. Motion carried.
# # # # # # # # # # # #
PUBLIC HEARING:
Appeal of the Planning Commission's Conditional Approval of Conditional Use
Permit No. 230, requesting elimination of certain conditions imposed by the
Planning Commission for the use of Commercial Antennae Within a Residential
Zone. (Applicant/Appellant: Schmitz & Associates, representing James A. Kay,
Jr., property owner at 26708 Indian Peak Road)
Mayor McTaggart opened the public hearing in regard to this matter and noted the
request from the applicant's attorney that this matter be continued to the March 19th
meeting
Larry Helfman, 26716 Indian Peak Road, urged those Councilmembers who have not
already done so to go out and look at this property, both from Indian Peak and Fond Du
Lac, in order to get a better sense of what the applicant is proposing; and expressed his
concern that he was not able to find in the hallway notebook the subject resolution
which had been adopted by the Planning Commission.
Each Councilmember and staff confirmed that they had in their agenda packets a copy
of the referenced Planning Commission resolution.
Mayor pro tem Stern moved, seconded by Councilwoman Ferraro, to continue this
matter to the March 19th City Council meeting. Motion carried.
REGULAR BUSINESS:
Resol. No. 2002 -10 - Traffic Calming on Via Rivera (1204 x 1502)
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 5
Director Allison presented the staff report of February 19, 2002, and the
recommendation to (1) Approve the installation of a series of speed humps along Via
Rivera Avenue between Rue De La Pierre and Via Del Mar in accordance with the
City's Traffic Calming Program. (2) Authorize the expenditure of up to $40,000 for the
engineering and construction of speed humps, signs and pavement markings along Via
Rivera. (3) Adopt the proposed resolution amending Resolution No. 2001 -43, the
Budget Resolution for Fiscal Year 2001 -2002 for a budget adjustment to the City's
General Fund.
Director Allison stated for Mayor McTaggart that the California Joint Powers Insurance
Authority (JPIA) had not been consulted in the past three years with regard to the
speed humps on Basswood; and that the City is not aware of whether any claims have
been made related to those speed humps. Director Allison noted for Mayor McTaggart
that staff would continue to update any information that is received from JPIA and
forward that information to the City Council.
With the aid of Power Point, Director Allison highlighted the placement of speed humps
which are located in the City and addressed the location where traffic calming is
needed on Via Rivera.
Responding to Councilman Clark's inquiry, Director Allison explained that staff has
worked closely with the residents on Basswood and that staff has received positive
feedback in regards to the speed humps; stated that the complaints of speeding
vehicles have dropped off dramatically; and added that the speed hump striping on
Basswood was toned down and that some of the proposed speed hump signs were
eliminated.
Ann Shaw, 30036 Via Borica, expressed her opposition to the installation of speed
humps; stated that this will not improve the livability of the greater neighborhood; and
urged the City to poll every resident in this area in regard to the placement of these
proposed speed humps.
Karis Say, 30121 Via Borica, expressed her concerns with the negative impact these
speed humps will have upon the delay of emergency vehicles; and expressed her belief
that these speed humps will decrease the property values.
Robert Zymet, 30346 Via Borica, expressed his opposition to the speed humps; stated
that no one has been injured on this street as a result of the speed of traffic; and
addressed his concern with the delay of emergency vehicles and the negative impact to
property values and automobiles.
Director Allison noted for Mayor McTaggart that Via Rivera is approximately 34 feet
wide and that the grade of the street is less than 5 percent.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 6
Eva Kolosvany - Stupler, 30211 Via Rivera, stated that driving over the speed humps will
create further discomfort for her ailing back conditions; and noted her belief that the
speed humps will create a traffic hazard.
Nathan Dunn, 30417 Via Rivera, noted his opposition to the installation of speed
humps; questioned why the speed humps are being proposed if there have been no
accidents; and questioned whether the City has any statistics to reflect that vehicles
traveling an additional 10 miles per hour is any more hazardous for the neighborhood.
Director Allison highlighted for Mayor pro tem Stern Circle Page 22, which reflects the
property owner notification map, stating that every resident in the circled area had been
notified; and explained that once the process is engineered, staff will know the exact
location for the speed humps and that staff will provide that information to City Council.
Mayor McTaggart asked that the proposed location for the speed humps not only be
brought to the Traffic Committee for review, but that it also be brought back to the City
Council; and that staff also provide information concerning the exact width and grade of
the streets.
Responding to Councilman Gardiner's inquiry, Director Allison advised that staff will
also provide at a later date a report on the six reported accidents in this neighborhood
as far as time frame and what percentage was speed related.
Highlighting precedent- setting concerns, Councilman Gardiner suggested that the issue
of placing speed humps in the City be addressed by the City Council at a future
meeting; and questioned if motorists avoiding the speed humps will take alternative
routes which may create other problems, such as more traffic around the schools; and
expressed his desire that the entire neighborhood be given the opportunity to provide
input on the placement of speed humps in the area.
Ken Denzel, 30802 Via Rivera, stated that the traffic in this area needs to be slowed
down; and he commented on two recent accidents on his street.
Jim Sweeney, 30903 Via Rivera, advised that this street is a feeder street onto
Hawthorne Boulevard; addressed his concern for the safety of the children and other
pedestrians; stated that the principal at the neighborhood school is in favor of the speed
humps; expressed his belief that the speeding traffic has become a crisis situation and
that there have been numerous accidents on this street.
Rod Robertson, 30841 Via Rivera, commented on the recent accident on this street --
noting his alarm that it left one of the vehicles in this residential neighborhood in a
totaled condition; addressed his concerns for the safety of the children; and urged the
City Council's approval of the speed humps.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 7
Beverly Chen, 30224 Via Rivera, expressed her belief that the speed humps will divert
traffic to other streets; that this is the only convenient access to Hawthorne Boulevard
and that it will place a negative impact upon traffic circulation on this street; and noted
her opposition to speed humps on this arterial street. She stated that speed humps
should be not placed in residential neighborhoods.
Andrew Cohen, 30224 Via Rivera, expressed his support for the speed humps;
requested that consideration be given to placing the speed humps further down towards
his neighborhood, stating that motorcycles and other vehicles routinely race down the
street; and stated that the speed humps are an appropriate solution to the speeding
traffic.
Jim Jones, 2747 Vista Mesa Drive, clarified that this is not a final agreement, that it is a
request to initially fund a study for a traffic calming measure; and stated that he would
like to see the engineering go forward to see where it is most appropriate to place the
speed humps.
Responding to Councilman Clark's inquiry, Mr. Jones stated that one member of the
Traffic Committee had questioned whether enough of the neighborhood had been
notified of this proposal; advised that studies report that motorists are using Basswood
and that they are not avoiding the speed humps; and that studies indicate a decrease in
the speed of traffic. Despite the Traffic Committee meeting notices having gone out to
a large number of residents, Mr. Jones advised that the turnout for those in opposition
was small and that the majority of the residents in attendance were supportive of the
speed humps.
Addressing Councilman Gardiner's question, Mr. Jones explained that after much
deliberation by the Traffic Committee, speed humps appear to be the best available
solution to the speeding traffic in the area; and mentioned that in order to be effective, a
minimum of three speed humps must be installed on a street and that the speed humps
be no more than 200 feet apart.
In response to Mayor pro tem Stern's inquiry, Mr. Jones noted that the average speed
on Basswood dropped to approximately 28 miles per hour following the placement of
speed humps; explained that any vehicle can comfortably maintain an unbroken speed
of 25 miles per hour; and mentioned that emergency response vehicles are required to
drive the posted speed limit in residential neighborhoods.
Mayor McTaggart suggested that center islands in the middle of the block be studied to
assist with traffic calming.
Director Allison noted for Councilman Gardiner that the posted speed hump of 15 miles
an hour is the engineer's advisory speed limit.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 8
RECESS AND RECONVENE
At 8:30 P.M. Mayor McTaggart recessed the meeting, and he reconvened the meeting
at 8:46 P.M.
Henry Ott, 30914 Rue De La Pierre, advised that he recently moved to this
neighborhood; noted that the speed humps at his last residence in Pasadena did not
slow the traffic down; and stated that he is opposed to the speed humps.
Mayor pro tern Stern highlighted the data which proves that there is a speeding problem
in this area; pointed out that the residents who are subjected to the speeding are
Overwhelmingly in support of the speed humps and that those who don't live on this
street are overwhelmingly opposed to the speed humps. Highlighting the concerns for
a drop in property values, he added that the people who are most likely to be harmed in
the value of property are in favor of the speed humps; and that given this situation, he
would be in support of speed humps to slow the traffic -- noting the statistics that reflect
a decrease in speed once speed humps are in place.
Councilman Gardiner stated that the speed humps appear at this time to be the most
cost effective and feasible option to slow down the traffic.
Mayor McTaggart requested that when this issue comes back for final consideration by
City Council, that more specifics be provided as far as number of daily trips to this
school district, how many families bring children in from outside the area, street
width /grades and what other alternatives had been studied; expressed his opinion that
speed humps in front of houses don't improve the quality of life for the homeowner; and
requested that the placement of center islands be studied. He stated that he would be
in support of this study as long as other alternatives are addressed.
Councilman Clark stated that this community needs to deal with today's more
aggressive driving to protect its residents; and that while these speed humps may
provide inconvenience for some of the residents, it clearly is the best option at this time;
and suggested that the City look at alternatives to slow the traffic down, such as with
the use of cameras for enforcement purposes -- noting that the cameras work in other
countries.
Councilwoman Ferraro pointed out the favorable statistics on Basswood following the
placement of speed humps; and stated that the complaints have dramatically
decreased.
Addressing Mayor pro tern Stern's regarding the various alternatives considered by the
Traffic Committee, Director Allison explained that the Traffic Committee was able to
consider two options: one being speed humps and one being to narrow the road by
building a median at certain locations -- pointing out that this last option would eliminate
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 9
curb parking in front of someone's home. Director Allison added that the traffic
engineer worked closely with the residents.
Mayor pro tern Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Clark, to (1) Approve the
installation of a series of speed humps along Via Rivera Avenue between Rue De La
Pierre and Via Del Mar in accordance with the City's Traffic Calming Program. (2)
Authorize the expenditure of up to $40,000 for the engineering and construction of
speed humps, signs and pavement markings along Via Rivera. (3) ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -101 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 2001 -43, THE
BUDGET RESOLUTION FOR FISCAL YEAR 2001 -2002 FOR A BUDGET
ADJUSTMENT TO THE CITY'S GENERAL FUND, AMENDED TO REFLECT A $9,000
EXPENDITURE FOR THE ENGINEERING WORK -UP, NOT $40,000.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Joan Davidson, 1525 Via Arco, Palos Verdes Estates, addressed her concerns for the
safety of the school children and the close proximity to the Palos Verdes Landfill and
proposed golf course -- noting that these children are living and playing next to the
landfill which includes tons of toxic materials; and stated that the underground wells
have been found to be contaminated. Ms. Davidson expressed her concern that the
construction activities may create additional hazards, such as bursting methane pipes;
questioned whether the construction activities will result in a safe environment; and
urged the City to reassure the school, parents and residents that these activities have a
fail -safe system.
Mayor McTaggart advised that a peninsula -wide committee is being established to
address this issue; and that the school board will be involved along with other
committees and members from the local communities.
Councilman Gardiner suggested that it be agendized for the next City Council meeting.
Noting that the EIR comment period is soon approaching its deadline, City Manager
Evans advised that staff has the initial study and that they plan on preparing a draft
response which will incorporate other comments and concerns; and that this draft
response will be provided to City Council.
Abalone Cove Beach Improvement Project (11101 x 1201)
Assistant City Manager Petru presented the staff report of February 19, 2002, and the .
recommendation to direct staff to work with the Coastal Commission staff to modify the
design of the Abalone Cove Beach Improvement Project to eliminate the proposed new
lower parking lot and redesign the access driveway to minimize and /or eliminate the
Coastal Commission staff's concerns regarding the biologic (terrestrial) and geologic
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 10
impacts of the project. She presented a PowerPoint presentation to illustrate various
aspects of the project.
Assistant City Manager Petru noted for Mayor McTaggart that the maximum grade of
the road is ten percent, which meets the Fire Department's requirements.
Mayor pro tem Stern requested that this issue be re- noticed for future meetings.
Addressing Councilwoman Ferraro's inquiry, Assistant City Manager Petru stated that
the initial Coastal Commission staff's reaction is that this design will eliminate the major
concern that their staff has with the geologic stability of the area and that it also seems
to go a long way to address concerns with the terrestrial habitat impacts. She noted
that as far as she is aware, the Coastal Commission staff never had any comments with
regard to the buildings; and reiterated that their initial reaction to the proposed re-
design was guarded but positive.
In response to Councilman Clark's question, Assistant City Manager Petru stated that
the existing parking near the buildings can be reconfigured; and that the edge of the
slope can be cleaned up and restripped, but that the overall number of parking spaces
will be reduced.
Assistant City Manager Petru noted for Mayor McTaggart that a hammerhead for the
turnaround might be a possibility in the existing lower parking lot and that it may be
possible to provide more parking spaces on the road.
Daniel Pinkham, No. 1 Narcissa, stated that due to the City's recent efforts to purchase
the land on the north side of Palos Verdes Drive South as open space, he suggested
that the City Council write a letter to the Coastal Commission reflecting that the City
may not be interested in this plan at this time; and highlighted the bigger picture that if
and when the open space above is saved, the beach area could be part of the big plan
for that open space. He suggested that the parking be placed higher up in order to
maintain the special quality of the natural area; and he requested that the City organize
citizen groups to give some more input on the plan.
Lois Larue, 3136 Barkentine Road, stated that the Abalone Cove slide is moving; noted
her opposition to what the City is proposing for Abalone Cove; and urged the City to
hire qualified and competent geologists to perform the geological testing.
Councilwoman Ferraro expressed her belief that this plan has potential for getting
Coastal Commission approval; that it creates a minimal impact and not much
disturbance to the habitat; noted the need to repair /renovate the buildings; stated that
the parking plan is a good compromise; and she suggested that staff informally present
this plan to the Coastal Commission to get their view.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 11
Mayor McTaggart stated that this is a City facility which needs to be accessible to the
handicapped; and that safe emergency service access is necessary to this public
facility.
Councilman Gardiner suggested that the same population having prior notice of this
issue be re- noticed for comment.
Mayor pro tem Stern noted his preference that the public be given an opportunity to
provide comment in regard to the modifications before the City Council makes its
recommendation.
Councilwoman Ferraro noted her support for re- noticing those who have expressed
prior interest.
Mayor McTaggart requested additional information on the amount of grading that would
be required for the proposed re- design.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, that staff bring this
back after re- noticing all the people who had expressed prior interest in this project; that
clarification be provided with regard to the numbers on the grading required
(export/import); and that staff provide a recommendation on whether the City should go
forward. No objection was noted
City Manager Evans explained that staff will most likely need to confer a little more with
the Coastal Commission; that staff will come back before the City Council if it looks like
this is a viable idea and advise the City Council at that time how much more money
might be needed and what other options may be available.
California Redemption Value Payments by Ivy Rubbish Disposal (1204 x 1301)
Council consensus was to continue this item to a future agenda.
Resol. No. 2002 -11 - Emergency Preparedness Committee (1101 x 401)
Assistant City Manager Petru presented the staff report of February 19, 2002, and the
recommendation to adopt the proposed resolution establishing an Emergency
Preparedness Committee and direct staff to bring back a budget adjustment to provide
staffing and funding for this new committee.
Jack Karp, 31,115 Ganada Drive, noted his support for the alternative recommendation;
expressed his belief that this committee will act as an umbrella to integrate other
organizations which have the same ideas in mind and that it will offer informal training
to the local communities; and he urged support of this first step.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 12
Maureen Ford, 30659 Ganado Drive, stated that she is in favor of staff
recommendation; and noted her belief that first responders will do more to protect
residents and property due to the unique geography which might further isolate this
community during an emergency or natural disaster.
John Nieto, 4235 Exultant Drive, expressed his belief that the residents in this
community have the capability to become mobilized during an emergency; and urged
support of staffs alternative recommendation.
Councilman Gardiner noted the necessity to look at what happens when the system
resources are overwhelmed.
Councilman Clark noted his support for the concept of the residents coming forward
with this idea; stated that he is in support of staffs recommendation; and addressed the
need to study what the City will need to do should the first -line responders not be
available.
John Alkemia, Assistant Fire Chief, Division I, expressed his support for the formation of
the committee, stating that it provides an opportunity to communicate better with the
City's residents; explained that emergency services have the potential to be inundated
all over the area and that it is necessary to study strategies for being prepared for
emergencies; and he addressed the importance of keeping people motivated to stay
with the program.
Mayor pro tem Stern noted his concern that this should be a peninsula -wide approach.
In response to Mayor pro tem Stern's comment, Mr. Alkemia explained that the City is
legitimizing the Peninsula Emergency Response Team (PERT), which is already
established throughout the peninsula; and stated that this committee will be of
assistance in drawing all of the other emergency -based groups together.
Sergeant Dave Rozas, Lomita Sheriff's Department, and the City's Disaster Emergency
Preparedness liaison, stated that PERT currently has 60 members, which is soon
expected to grow to 83 participants; commented on the intent for this plan to set its
focus peninsula -wide -- noting that PERT is already interfaced with other community
response groups in the area; and stated that if the resources in an emergency situation
are stretched at a local level, an area command team is immobilized, and then from
there, a State -level emergency response takes over.
Mayor pro tem Stern noted his support for staff's proposal; addressed the need to figure
out what this City has and what it will need to create a successful and coordinated plan;
and highlighted the need to keep people interested and involved in the program. He
commended those residents for bringing this plan forward.
City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
Page 13
Councilman Gardiner addressed the need to study how the locals will fill the gap until
the duly authorized people are put in place.
Highlighting his discussions with Assistant City Manager Petru regarding the City's
emergency preparedness, Mr. Nieto commended Ms. Petru for her assessment of
where she believes the City needs to be, where it's at, and where it needs to go in the
future.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, to ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -111 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES ESTABLISHING AN EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
AND DISASTER RESPONSE COMMITTEE AND DIRECT STAFF TO BRING BACK A
BUDGET ADJUSTMENT TO PROVIDE STAFFING AND FUNDING FOR THIS NEW
COMMITTEE. Motion carried.
San Ramon Drainage and Landslide Stabilization Project (1204 x 604)
Staff recommendation was to (1) Amend the professional service contract to AMEC
Earth and Environmental, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $104,109 for geotechnical
inspection services for the San Ramon Drainage and Landslide Stabilization Project for
a total contract amount of $383,134. (2) Amend the professional service contract to
Helix Environmental Planning for an amount not to exceed $68,600 for mitigation
monitoring services for the San Ramon Drainage and Landslide Stabilization Project for
a total contract amount of $147,900. (3) Amend the professional service contract to
DMc Engineering, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $36,630 for engineering services for
the San Ramon Drainage and Landslide Stabilization Project for a total contract amount
of $177,240. (4) Adopt Resolution No. 2002 -12, a Resolution of the City Council of the
city of Rancho Palos Verdes approving a budget adjustment to increase the Capital
Improvement Project budget for the San Ramon Drainage and Landslide Stabilization
Project by $210,000, from $3,194,650 to $3,404.650.
Mayor pro tem Stern stated that it is his intent to visit this site.
Councilman Clark noted that he had gone out to this site.
Councilman Gardiner moved, seconded by Mayor pro tem Stern, to concur with staff's
recommendation. Motion unanimously carried.
General Plan Update (1203 x 701)
Staff recommendation was to (1) Formulate a "General Plan Update Committee" to
review the General Plan Goals and Policies, as well as the technical updates identified
by staff and make a recommendation to the City Council as to scope of the necessary
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February 19, 2002
Page 14
General Plan amendments. (2) Direct staff to develop and implement a public
participation strategy.
In order to shorten the General Plan Update process, Councilman Gardiner suggested
that the City's 1974 goal statement be reviewed and reaffirmed and then to make any
changes from that point forward.
Councilman Clark expressed his preference that the community becomes involved in
the update process.
Mayor pro tem Stern suggested starting with the 28 defined goals.
Councilwoman Ferraro noted her support of staff recommendation.
Mayor McTaggart expressed his belief that the goals will not change; noted his desire
that the public ultimately participate in the process; and suggested that this be done at
the leadership workshop.
Council consensus was to review this matter further at the workshop.
Ken Dyda noted the necessity for public participation.
Resol. No. 2002 -13 - Fiscal Year 2002 -2002 Midyear Financial Report (602)
Director McLean presented staff report and the recommendation to (1) Receive and file
the attached midyear financial report. (2) Adopt Resolution No. 2002 -13, a Resolution
of the City Council of the city of Rancho Palos Verdes amending Resolution No. 2001-
43, the budget appropriation for Fiscal Year 2001 -2002, to increase certain expenditure
appropriations in the General Fund, Street Maintenance (Gas Tax) Fund, Recycling
Fund, Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) fund, Capital Projects —Parks (Measure A)
Fund, Capital Projects — Bikeways Fund, and Equipment Replacement Fund.
Mayor pro tem Stern moved, seconded by Councilwoman Ferraro, to (1) Ordered
received and filed. (2) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2002 -137 A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES AMENDING
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 -43, THE BUDGET APROPRIATION FOR FISCAL YEAR
2001 -20021 TO INCREASE CERTAIN EXPENDITURE APPROPRIATIONS IN THE
GENERAL FUND, STREET MAINTENANCE (GAS TAX) FUND, RECYCLING FUND,
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS (CIP) FUND, CAPITAL PROJECTS — PARKS
(MEASURE A) FUND, CAPITAL PROJECTS — BIKEWAYS FUND, AND EQUIPMENT
REPLACEMENT FUND. Motion carried.
Fiscal Year 2001 -2002 Arterial Rehabilitation Program (1204 x 1404)
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February 19, 2002
Page 15
Director Allison presented staff report of February 19, 2002, and the recommendation to
(1) Approve Change Order Number Six to the Fiscal Year 2001 -2002 Arterial
Rehabilitation Program. (2) Authorize an additional Change Order expenditure of up to
$230,000 to complete the construction. (3) Approve a contract amendment with DMc
Engineering for additional Construction Management Services. (4) Authorize an
additional expenditure of $25,266 for Construction Management Services. (5) Adopt
Resolution No. 2002 -14, a Resolution of the City Council of the city of Rancho Palos
Verdes amending Resolution No. 2001 -43, the budget appropriation for Fiscal Year
2001 -2002, for a budget adjustment to the City's Capital Improvement Project Fund.
It was the consensus of the City Council to support staffs recommendation to continue
the job as designed, using rubberized asphalt.
Director Allison advised that if this is approved, work should commence this April.
Councilman Gardiner moved, seconded by Mayor pro tern Stern, to concur with staff's
recommendation. Motion carried.
Vallon Signal (1204 x 1404)
Director Allison presented staff report of February 19, 2002, and the recommendation to
consider decorative traffic signal equipment for the Hawthorne Boulevard/Vallon Drive
traffic signal. He introduced Erik Zandvliet from Willdan & Associates.
With the aid of a PowerPoint presentation, Mr. Zandvliet highlighted the various types of
signals for consideration.
Mayor McTaggart expressed his desire that the visual impact be minimized as much as
possible; and urged staff to work with those residents who live closest to the proposed
signal.
Responding to Mayor McTaggart's suggestion, Mr. Zandvliet explained that the signal
light would be approximately 17 feet high, higher than normal for extra precaution.
Councilman Gardiner suggested that City Council set a price range and have staff
come back with some options.
Mayor pro tem Stern moved, seconded by Councilman Gardiner, that the signal light be
limited to $125,000 maximum and that sample photographs be provided at a future
meeting for selection. No objection was noted.
Intersection of Hawthorne Boulevard and Highridge Road (1204 x 1503)
Council consensus was to continue this item to a future agenda.
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February 19, 2002
Page 16
Legislative Policy and Guidelines (1101 x 306)
City Manager Evans presented the staff report of February 19 and the recommendation
to (1) Adopt Legislative Guidelines for 2002. (2) Adopt revised City Council Policy No.
29. (3) Consider support of Proposition 42.
Councilwoman Ferraro moved, seconded by Councilman Gardiner, to adopt Staff
Recommendation Nos. 1 and 2 and to support Proposition No. 42.
City Manager Evans stated that most cities are taking a favorable position with
Proposition No. 42.
Palos Verdes Drive South Roadway Repairs from La Rotondo to the easterly City
limits (1204 x 1404)
Director Allison presented the staff report of February 19, 2002, and the
recommendation to receive an update on the status of roadway repairs.
There was no objection to receive and file the update.
Community Leaders Breakfast Schedule (301 x 310)
Select two dates, one in the spring and one in the fall, for the Community Leaders
Breakfast meetings.
Saturday, April 27, 2002, was selected as the spring Community Leaders Breakfast
meeting; and Saturday, October 26, 2002, was tentatively scheduled for the fall
Community Leaders Breakfast meeting.
Status of Review of Geologic and Geotechnical Data for Zone 2 (1101 x 1801)
City Manager Evans presented the staff report of February 19, 2002, and the
recommendation to set a date and time to receive the Cotton, Shires and Associates
technical review of the geological and geotechnical data for the Abalone Cove landslide
and Zone 2 areas. He advised that staff will be distributing the latest Zone 2 report this
week; and questioned whether the City Council wished to set a workshop date or to
have staff present this at a regular City Council meeting.
City Manager Evans noted for Mayor pro tem Stern that the January /February 2002
report will soon be displayed on the City's website.
Councilman Gardiner questioned whether the report addressed the concerns of those
who submitted letters.
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February 19, 2002
Page 17
City Manager Evans explained that due to limited funds, the report did not address all
or most of the approximate 100 letters received from the residents, but that the report
did address staffs and the Council's concerns; that it incorporated all of the geologists'
comments; and that it addressed the questions raised by the peer review geologists.
He stated that the City Council would receive all of the correspondence received at its
Zone 2 Workshop.
It was the consensus of the City Council that staff present this at the May 18, 2002,
Zone 2 Workshop.
Lois Larue, 3136 Barkentine Road, noted corrections needed in the staff report.
Reschedule City Council Meeting (307 x 1101)
Staff recommendation was to consider rescheduling the regular Council meeting of
March 6, 2002.
Council consensus was to reschedule this meeting to Monday, March 11, 2002.
City Council and Staff Team Building Workshop (1101 x 1202)
Staff recommendation was to confirm a date and time for a City Council and Staff Team
Building Workshop.
Council consensus was to schedule this workshop to its Saturday, March 9, 2002,
meeting.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT:
City Attorney Lynch reported the following: (1) no action was taken in regard to the
acquisition of any of any of the properties for open space; (2) with respect to
the Dao case, the City Attorney gave the Council an update regarding the case, and no
action was taken; (3) the City Council unanimously authorized the addition of
Mr. Ramsey Woodworth of the Washington D.C. law firm of Shook, Hardy &Bacon to
officially be associated in the Abrams cases; (4) with regard to the Kay case, no action
was taken; and (5) with regard to the Chandler's claim, no action was taken.
ORAL CITY COUNCIL REPORTS:
Mayor pro tem Stern announced that Mayor McTaggart had been appointed as Chair of
the Palos Verdes Peninsula Regional Law Enforcement Committee and that he (Mayor
pro tem Stern) will serve as Vice - Chair.
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February 19, 2002
Page 18
Mayor. McTaggart requested that the Saturday, February 23 agenda include discussion
of a letter to be signed by him to address various aircraft noise issues. He noted that
an equine rescue group is being formed to help with possible emergency evacuations in
the community.
Councilman Gardiner commented on the success of the neighborhood compatibility
meeting, noting that there was quite a bit of participation.
Councilman Clark stated that the Ocean Trails Committee met today; advised that
Norman Hanover has been named as the trustee by the bankruptcy report; stated that
he will be managing the Ocean Trails property and development from this point on; that
he will be at the property on Mondays, possibly Tuesdays; and that he will set up a
meeting with the City Council.
ADJOURNMENT:
At 12:00 Midnight, the meeting was adjourned to Saturday, February 23, 2002, at 9:00
A.M. in the Fireside Room at Hesse Park for interviews of Planning Commission and
Finance Advisory Committee applicants followed by a brief adjourned Council meeting.
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City Council Minutes
February 19, 2002
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