HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/09/2000 - Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting
May 9, 2000 - 7:00 p.m.
- 4:00 p.m [Refer to separate minutes]
CLOSED SESSION - 6:15 p.m
CLOSED SESSION REPORT PRESENTED - None.
RECESSED AND RECONVENED AT 7:00 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING
ROLL CALL
Present: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Absent: None
Pledge of Allegiance - Council Member Ridgeway.
Invocation by Senior Executive Pastor Jim Russell, Mariners Church.
Presentation of National Public Works Week Proclamation. Public Works
Director Webb read the proclamation and noted that some of the accolades also
belongs to the General Services Department since this honors all employees in the
City that work so hard to make the public facilities usable and safe.
CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH COUNCIL
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR
DISCUSSION. ACTION OR REPORT (NON - DISCUSSION ITEM):
Mayor Pro Tern Adams reported that he received junk email selling devices
that trigger the emergency preemption devices for traffic signals. He
requested a report relative to whether the City has a law that prohibits the
use of those types of devices.
Mayor Noyes apologized to the Comcast crew, especially to Jeff (last
meeting's director), for stating that they were late starting the April 25
Council meeting because of Comcast. He indicated that Council was late
getting out of Closed Session deliberations and that Comcast was set up for
the meeting. He added that Comcast videotapes the meetings at no charge
to the City as a public service and expressed his appreciation to them.
Mayor Noyes announced that Balboa Island will be holding its Annual Art
Walk on May 15, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Mayor Pro Tem Adams provided a report on the Newport- Ensenada Yacht
Race. He indicated that he and his wife were treated very well while they
were in Ensenada and that he brought back a number of plaques from
various organizations and the Ensenada Mayor to thank the City for its
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INDEX
National Public Works
Week/Commendation
(35)
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City Council Minutes
May 9, 2000
contribution to the race.
CONSENT CALENDAR
READING OF MINUTES /ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
INDEX
1. MINUTES OF THE ADJOURNED REGULAR AND REGULAR
MEETING OF APRIL 25, 2000. Waive reading of subject minutes,
approve as written and order filed.
2. READING OF ORDINANCES AND
full of all ordinances and resolutions
Clerk to read by title only.
RESOLUTIONS FOR ADOPTION
RESOLUTIONS. Waive reading in
under consideration, and direct City
3. RESOLUTION ADJUSTING THE COMPENSATION OF THE CITY
CLERK. Adopt Resolution No. 2000 -33 adjusting the compensation of the
City Clerk.
4. DESIGNATION OF LIAISON AGENT FOR THE DIVISION OF OIL,
GAS, AND GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES. 1) Adopt Resolution
No. 2000 -34 appointing a City agent for the Division of Oil, Gas, and
Geothermal Resources; and 2) authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to
execute a "Designation of Agent" form, naming the Utilities Manager, Eldon
Davidson, to serve as the City of Newport Beach's Liaison Agent regarding
matters pertaining to the operation and maintenance of the City's oil and gas
facilities, as regulated by the Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal
Resources.
5. FUNDING REQUEST SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
CONSERVATION. Adopt Resolution No. 2000 -35 authorizing the
submittal of a Funding Request Form in the amount of $21,630 to the
Department of Conservation's Recycling Division.
6. ADOPTION OF THE AMENDED AND RESTATED PARS (PUBLIC
AGENCY RETIREMENT SYSTEM) TRUST AGREEMENT. Adopt
Resolution No. 2000 -36 to: 1) adopt the Amended and Restated PARS Trust
Agreement; 2) appoint the Human Resources Manager, or the successor or
designee, as the City's Plan Administrator for the Public Agency Retirement
System; 3) authorize the Plan Administrator to execute the documents as the
Plan Administrator of the PARS Trust Agreement; and
4) authorize the Plan Administrator to take whatever additional
administrative actions are necessary to maintain participation in PARS.
ORDINANCE FOR INTRODUCTION
Removed at the request of Council Member Ridgeway.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
8. BALBOA VILLAGE PHASE I - ADDITIONAL SERVICES. Approve and
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Res 2000 -33/C -3080
City Clerk
Compensation (38)
Res 2000 -34
Division of Oil,
Gas and
Geothermal
Resources
(28)
Res 2000 -35
Department of
Conservation
Funding (44)
Res 2000 -36
PARS Trust
Agreement
(66)
C -3339
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City Council Minutes
May 9, 2000
INDEX
• authorize the City Manager to execute a contract with Ron Baers of
Planning and Urban Design Resources to provide additional design services
as they relate to public infrastructure improvements in the Balboa Village
commercial area.
9. Removed at the request of Council Member Ridgeway.
10. Removed at the request of an audience member.
11. BONITA CANYON SPORTS PARK - AWARD OF CONTRACT
(C- 3270). 1) Award contract to Contractor No. 6 (Castello, Inc.) for the total
contract price of $6,276,000, which is the Base Bid plus Alternate Bid Items
No. 2 and No. 5, and authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute the
contract; 2) establish an amount of $42,000 to cover the cost of unforeseen
work; and 3) authorize a budget amendment (BA -058) appropriating
$394,000 from the Bonita Canyon bond proceed improvement fund to Bonita
Canyon Sports Park Account No. 7441- C4120434 and transfer $100,000 from
Sewer Pump Station Master Plan Improvements Account No. 7532 -
05600100 to a new Bonita Canyon Sports Park Account No. 7532- C4120434
and transfer $48,000 from Freeway Reservation Park Account No. 7021 -
C4120375 to a new Bonita Canyon Sports Park Account No. 7021- C4120434.
MISCELLANEOUS ACTIONS
• 12. TRANSFER OF FUNDS IN THE PARKS DIVISION. Approve a budget
amendment (BA -059) to transfer $50,000 from Account No. 3170 -7000 (Parks
Maintenance - Regular Salaries) to Account No. 3170 -8080 (Parks
Maintenance - Services Prof/Tech) to fund contract labor and contracted
maintenance services for the reminder of Fiscal Year 1999 -2000.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Adams to approve the Consent Calendar,
except for those items removed (7, 9 and 10).
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Regarding Agenda Item No. 11, City Clerk Harkless announced that
Contractor No. 6 was Castello, Inc.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 1.12 OF THE NBMC.
Council Member Ridgeway reported that the amendment allows the Police
Department to designate Police Volunteers, under certain circumstances, to
• issue citations on private property for handicap parking violations, and that
Subsection A of the proposed ordinance gives Police Department staff the
power to issue citations for any violation of this code.
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Design Guidelines
(38)
C -3270
BA -058
Bonita Canyon
Sports Park
(38/40)
BA -059
Park
Maintenance
(40/62)
Chapter 1.12/
Citations and
Warrants (70)
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INDEX
Police Chief McDonell clarified that the ordinance has language that permits
the Police Chief to designate which staff has the authority to enforce the
various codes. He reported that it was found that the previous ordinance
was so specific that it became out of date as it changed. It was the City
Attorney's recommendation to broaden the language. He indicated that this
language is similar to the Fire and Marine Cheifs authority to designate
employees. Council Member Ridgeway stated that he does not mind if a
deputized employee of the Police Department is given authority to issue
limited parking violations, but indicated that as written the Police Chief can
instruct his secretary to give citations for parking violations around the City.
He indicated that he would rather have a limitation rather than a
broadening of the ordinance. Chief McDonell indicated that they currently
have a vast amount of enforcement discretion and that they would hear if
they are not using that discretion wisely. He assured that they use their
discretionary authority judiciously and that this practice is not new to law
enforcement.
In response to City Manager Bludau's question, Council Member Ridgeway
explained that parking violations are a daily part of his constituents' life and
is a sensitive subject on the peninsula. He indicated that, in his experience
with parking enforcement on the peninsula, the Police Department is not
tolerant and sometimes rude. He stated that he is supportive of good
enforcement but has concerns with expanding the power to issue parking
citations. Reporting that the Police Department enforces handicap violations
• on a complaint basis right now, Chief McDonell stated that from personal
experience, there is a huge problem with people in the community fragrantly
using handicap spaces when they are not entitled to them.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's question, Chief McDonell stated
that he does not mind changing the language to limit the deputization of a
volunteer to only issue citations for handicap violations on private or public
parking spaces. He explained that the language was not only meant for the
volunteers and reiterated that the language is similar to what is in existence
for the Fire and Marine Chief to designate members of his staff to enforce
certain codes. He added that the ordinance also provides flexibility since the
Police Department constantly changes titles, classifications, and sometimes
responsibilities.
Motion by Council Member Ridgeway to continue this item to the
May 23, 2000 Council meeting.
Mayor Noyes asked about the statement that the Police Department
currently enforces handicap violations on a complaint basis. Chief McDonell
explained that they do not have the staffing to address this. He stated that
an officer may issue a citation if he drives by a violator, but their primary
focus is not to be looking for those types of violations. He added that some
work needs to be done with property owners to survey the handicap spaces
since they are sometimes not marked properly for enforcement.
• Council Member Ridgeway clarified a previous statement, emphasizing that
he is not casting aspersions on the Police Department and apologized if it
appears that way. He explained that he has a greater concern in his
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community
to parking issues.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
INDEX
9. CONTRACT WITH INNOVAPARK FOR THE SMART METER TRIAL
PROGRAM.
Council Member Ridgeway reported that there has been two changes to the
contract which adds an insurance clause and a Council review at the end of
the 90 -day period to determine if the electronic meter program should
continue. City Attorney Burnham added that the agreement has been given
to InnovaPark representatives and that they are in agreement with the
changes. He stated that copies of the modified agreement have also been
placed on the table with the staff reports.
Motion by Council Member Ridgeway to authorize the Mayor and the
City Clerk to execute a contract with InnovaPark LLC, as amended.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
10. APPROVAL OF SUBDIVISION AGREEMENT FOR CORPORATE
PLAZA WEST (RESUBDIVISION NO. 1006).
Public Works Director Webb reported that The Irvine Company (TIC) was
conditioned by the Planning Commission to complete certain improvements
prior to recording the parcel map. TIC has completed development but has
not completed the roadway from Farallon Drive to Clubhouse Drive. He
stated that TIC and 0 Hill Partners are willing to post bonds totaling
$78,000 that guarantees the roadway completion. He indicated that $62,000
is from TIC and $16,000 is from TIC, in the name of 0 Hill Partners,
although all of the bonds are signed by TIC. The bonds would be released
once the improvements are completed.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's question, Mr. Webb stated that
0 Hill Partners is part of the subdivision agreement but the bonds are in the
name of The Irvine Company for 0 Hill Partners portion of the requirement.
Council Member Ridgeway asked if a signature block should be included for
Mr. 0 Hill. Mr. Webb recommended that this item be continued to resolve
this issue and to get all parties together. Council Member Ridgeway
indicated that he is satisfied that the documentation is complete, but
indicated that he faxed the agreement to Mr. O Hill.
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C -3344
Smart Meter
Program (38)
Resub 1006
Corporate
Plaza
West
(84)
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May 9, 2000
516511 DR
Robert O Hill, 1 Upper Newport Plaza, O Hill Partners, stated that O Hill
Partners is the owner of Parcels 1 and 2, and that O Hill Partners and TIC
are owners of Parcel 3. He provided Council with correspondence that
explains his request. He noted that the roadway from Farallon Drive to
Clubhouse Drive would be built on their property and a portion of property
that they are deeding to TIC after the parcel map is recorded. He indicated
that an extremely hazardous condition exists and that the road is intended
to alleviate that condition. He stated that they believe that the road should
have been built at the time Corporate Plaza West was built, but now they
feel that the road should be built before the parcel map is recorded. He
indicated that they do not mind the roadway being built in a timely manner,
but took issue that the subdivision agreement allows three years. He added
that they have never seen the plans for the roadway and reported that TIC
has refused to let them see the plans on numerous occasions. Mr. O Hill
stated that O Hill Partners would like the plans completed before the
subdivision agreement is entered into and would like the plans made part of
the subdivision agreement.
Motion by Council Member Ridgeway to continue this item to the
May 23, 2000 Council meeting.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Dr. Alison Stanley requested that Council place a proclamation or resolution
on a future agenda that states that the City will continue to not display or
exploit wild or exotic animals for public entertainment or amusement. She
provided Council with a copy of the proclamation/resolution.
Allan Beek, 2007 Highland, provided Council with correspondence regarding
the "Newport Beach Traffic Planning and Improvements: Traffic Phasing
Ordinance" petition (commonly known as Redlight). He believed that it is
unclear what affects this would have if adopted, no one knows how it works,
and it gives special status to three details of the Traffic Phasing Ordinance
(TPO). He expressed concern that people can vote to change the law so it
disagrees with the Charter. However, if the law and the Charter must
agree, then people cannot just vote to amend the TPO but must also amend
the Charter. This means using a different section of the Elections Code,
writing the petitions in a different format, and acquiring more signatures on
the petitions. He stated that the City Attorney's summary does not say
anything about amending the Charter if the people want the TPO amended,
presuming that the law and the Charter can disagree. He urged Council to
request a ruling on this from the City Attorney as soon as possible so that
voters can make an informed decision on whether or not to sign the petition.
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Proclamation/
Animal Control
(70)
TPO
Petition
(39)
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City Council Minutes
May 9, 2000
INDEX
FU13LIU HEARINU
13. ANNEXATION OF BAY KNOLLS AREA.
Res 2000 -37
Ord 2000 -8
Planning Director Temple reported that entitlement actions need Council
GPA 99 -3(A)
approval in order to submit the completed application for the annexation of
Annexation of
Bay Knolls to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). She also
Bay Knolls Area
pointed out that a new zoning district was designed, which merged County
(21/45)
and Costa Mesa zoning documents, in order to support the annexation and to
minimize the creation of legal non - conformances which require extra
processing if residents wish to make changes to their house.
Mayor Noyes opened the public hearing.
Hearing no testimony, Mayor Noyes closed the public hearing.
Motion by Council Member Ridgeway to adopt Resolution No. 2000 -37
approving General Plan Amendment 99 -3(A); and introduce Ordinance
No. 2000 -8 approving Amendment 901 and passed to second reading on
May 23, 2000.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
14. UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION.
Planning
Commission
Council voted for the unscheduled vacancy on the Planning Commission, as
Vacancy
follows:
(24)
Barry Eaton - Adams
Earl McDaniel - Debay, O'Neil, and Mayor Noyes
Christi Bettingen - Thomson, Glover, and Ridgeway
City Clerk Harkless announced that Council may vote for either Earl
McDaniel or Christi Bettingen next since they each received three votes.
By the following vote, Earl McDaniel was appointed to fill the vacancy on the
Planning Commission which was created as a result of the resignation of
Richard Fuller (term expires 6/30/03):
Earl McDaniel - Adams, Debay, O'Neil, and Mayor Noyes
Christi Bettingen - Thomson, Glover, and Ridgeway
15. STATUS REPORT ON SANTIAGO DRIVE SPEED REDUCTION
Santiago Drive
PROGRAM (contd. from 3/28/00,4/11/00 & 4/25/00).
Speed Reduction
(85)
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Transportation/Development Services Manager Edmonston reported that
Council approved a program in October 1999 that raised the speed limit on
Santiago Drive, between Irvine and Tustin Avenues, from 25 to 30 mph to
enable the Police Department to introduce an enforcement program. The
program also involved collecting extensive data on Santiago Drive,
Windward Lane, Francisco Drive, and Holiday Road, and on 23 =d Street so
that it can be determined if traffic shifted. He indicated that the City
contracted with an outside firm to collect the data. Data was collected prior
to making any changes, one month after the program was implemented, and
after three months. He reviewed the analysis and indicated that the data
was collected by using equipment that has two rubber hoses that were placed
a fixed distance apart across the street and that counted the amount of
traffic. This assisted the Police Department in knowing when their
enforcement activity would be most productive. He stated that the
equipment is not as accurate as radar but is a good indicator and explained
that the street was chosen because there was less of a chance that the counts
would be sabotaged. He reported that speed data was gathered with the use
of a handheld radar device, that each sample on the chart represents over
100 vehicles, and the radar count reflects the vehicle's top speedlend of
acceleration.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Adams' questions, Mr. Edmonston showed
where the tubes were placed and stated that the firm of TSI (Traffic Studies
Inc.) collected the data. He noted that they have used other companies in
• the past but found their data to be consistently reliable.
Mr. Edmonston reported that the traffic volume and speeds decreased on
Santiago Drive. Prior to the program, the 85 percentile speed (speed that
traffic engineers use as the upper speed limit that a reasonable motorist
might drive) was measured at 39 mph; after the one month period in which
the Police Department only gave warnings, it was about 38 or 39 mph; and
after the three month period in which citations had been issued, it dropped
to 35 to 37 mph. He indicated that the Police Department scaled back their
enforcement since the results satisfied one of the criteria in which speeds
decreased due to enforcement by at least 2 mph.
Mr. Edmonston reported that another component of the speed reduction
program is to develop a neighborhood traffic program which creates a menu
of techniques that have been tried and found useful in other places, along
with a criteria of where the methods might be used; and to develop
preliminary proposals for Santiago Drive, Windward Lane, Francisco Drive,
and Holiday Road. This should be completed within two to three weeks.
After that, he envisions that they would sit down with the community, have
the consultant explain why he feels his recommendation is the most
appropriate method, and receive feedback.
Mayor Pro Tem Adams asked about the average speed statistic and the need
for sidewalks on this stretch of Santiago Drive. Mr. Edmonston reported
that the highest speeds that were recorded with the radar gun were up to
• 60 mph before the program and between 41 to 44 mph in the most recent
readings. Regarding sidewalks, he indicated that the Public Works
Department addressed this early on in discussions but there has not been
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• any support from the residents since the lack of sidewalks creates a different
feel in the neighborhood.
Regarding the monitoring machine, Mr. Edmonston reported that the Police
Department deploys this equipment periodically but that there was concern
that the data received from it was skewed because of its visibility.
Council Member Debay asked if cameras have been used for speed control.
Mr. Edmonston reported that, a number of years ago, Pasadena had an
extensive camera program for photo enforcement of red light violations;
however, the courts ultimately dismissed citations by the thousand because
they have not bought into that process even though it is provided for in the
Vehicle Code. He added that the San Jose Department of Transportation
still uses cameras but only in residential neighborhoods, and that the
program costs about $200,000 a year.
In response to Council Member Glover's questions, Mr. Edmonston
confirmed that the City has a consultant who is working on a solution for all
four streets and that he has been working for about six weeks. He indicated
that the consultant has not met with the neighborhood yet because the City
only asked him to measure the streets, work with aerial photos, and mark
driveways. The consultant has prepared a rough proposal which was
reviewed earlier this week and that he is fine tuning it in preparation for
discussions with the residents. He stated that the consultant has looked at a
• number of solutions, including speed bumps, and has reviewed traffic
volume, speeds, and intersection and driveway locations. Council Member
Glover believed that speed bumps are a viable solution, but that they could
not be installed due to its previous designation. Further, that this is the
reason the City met with the Orange County Transportation Authority
(OCTA) and Costa Mesa to get the street redesignated. She stated that she
would strongly like to see speed bumps included in the proposal.
Mr. Edmonston stated that he made it clear to the consultant that he needs
to include more than one type of traffic calming method and explain his
position. Regarding the redesignation, he clarified that the City had to go
before OCTA for approval of any form of traffic calming on Santiago Drive
and that they required the downgrade to a two -lane street (collector street)
as long as sufficient capacity is maintained to handle the existing and
forecasted volumes. He indicated that this is easily doable with most of the
techniques they are reviewing. He believed that a public hearing will
probably be held on this issue once the proposal is completed and the
consultant has met with the community.
Referencing the minutes from the September 27, 1999 Council meeting,
Council Member Debay indicated that she confirmed with Mr. Edmonston
that nothing could be done to calm the traffic on the street if the downgrade
of Santiago Drive had not been accomplished. She stated that she was
present at the meeting with OCTA and that the only thing the City could
have done at that point was to conduct enforcement and not perform any
traffic calming measures. She added that OCTA allowed the traffic calming
• as long as the calming did not reduce the capacity below the street demand
and indicated that placing speed bumps on a collector street tends to force
cars out to abutting streets. This drew them to look at other traffic calming
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INDEX
measures, i.e. ballooning out the curbs, different street striping.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Adams' question, Mr. Edmonston reported
that Lew Gluesing and Ed Cline are from Willdan Associates and that the
firm was selected because of their experience in this area. Mayor Pro Tem
Adams stated that the City could not have picked anyone better than
Mr. Cline.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's questions regarding the right -of-
way, Mr. Edmonston reported that there is a minimum of 10 feet of right -of-
way beyond the curb face; however, he pointed out that there is some
irregularities with the property lines. Public Works Director Webb reported
that the street was originally constructed with a 60 foot right -of -way, but it
required an 80 foot right -of -way as redevelopment occurred since the street
was on the Master Plan as a secondary arterial highway. Now that Santiago
Drive is downgraded, he stated that the City does have the option of
vacating some of the parcels to have a straight right -of -way. Mr. Edmonston
indicated that the consultant will probably include a sidewalk
recommendation because it is a way of addressing the traffic issue.
Mr. Edmonston clarified that the six month trial period ends one month from
today. Following that time, they would conduct another round of seven -day
traffic counts, radar studies, etc. to determine if speeds have gone back up
with the reduced level of enforcement. The consultant would then be in a
• position to start meeting with the community in that timeframe. He
reported that the consultant's full report will not be back to Council in a
month, but would like the overall guidelines back to Council for review at a
study session as soon as possible. Mayor Noyes emphasized that a deadline
needs to be set because the community has been waiting for this for years.
City Manager Bludau stated that staff can commit to coming back on July 11
with the results of the traffic study and the consultant's report.
Mayor Pro Tern Adams stated that a resident contacted him expressing
concern that the speed data was only taken for one period in the late
morning and early afternoon, believing that speeds in the early evening and
weekends will differ significantly. He indicated that he reviewed the speed
data and recommends that the City obtain additional radar data during
those times.
Regarding Recommendation 1, Mr. Bludau reported that the Police
Department has reduced the amount of enforcement for the last two months.
Steve Berger, 2001 Centella, indicated that he had questions for Police Chief
McDonell today but was only able to talk with Captain Henisey. He
provided Council with a list of questions for Chief McDonell, Mayor Pro Tern
Adams, and the City Manager and proceeded to read some of them. He
stated that the six month period is over and that the residents expect a vote
on this issue tonight. Noting that it took some time to get the signs up,
equipment in place, and conduct a warning period, Mr. Bludau clarified that
• the City is five months into the six month period.
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• Mayor Pro Tern Adams expressed the opinion that enforcement has resulted
in a fairly dramatic drop in speeds during the times that the data was
collected (10 a.m. and 1 p.m.). He reported that the average speeds are just
over 30 mph (30 to 32 mph) where the average speeds used to be 35 to
36 mph. Further, he believed that there has been a dramatic drop in the
number of high speed drivers which pose a safety threat.
In response to Mayor Pro Tern Adams' question, Mr. Berger indicated that
he has only seen improvement during the hours of enforcement. Mr. Berger
utilized photos to show that construction also brought the speeds down and
took issue with the placement of the testing car, explaining that drivers will
hit their brakes before their vehicle can be tested. He agreed that a 24 -hour
test or a week -long test should be conducted and assured Council that the
tubes would not be sabotaged. He expressed the opinion that the data
provided to Council is erroneous and not reflective of week -long speeds
during the enforcement period. Mayor Pro Tern Adams clarified that speed
data is not collected by the road tubes but was gathered by using radar. He
also explained how the radar tracks cars to its maximum speed and not just
the speed at point of contact.
Chris Schwartz, 2401 Santiago Drive, thanked Council and staff for pushing
the program through, and the Police Department for their enforcement. He
stated that he spent time with the Police Department and found it
interesting to see how testing was conducted. He also expressed
• appreciation toward Mayor Noyes for being insistent on setting a date for
when this will be brought back and Mayor Pro Tern Adams for recognizing
that the times that the surveys were taken were not a good representation.
He indicated that the road tubes can be placed in front of his house, if they
need to be deployed again, and that he would protect it from being
sabotaged. He expressed the opinion that the 3 mph decrease is not an
overwhelming success and that he hopes for better. Mr. Schwartz added
that he believes that speed bumps do not reduce road capacity but forces
traffic to travel slower. He concluded by stating that he encourages a
discussion about sidewalks as it would be a great addition to their street.
Bryan Bond, 2431 Santiago Drive, stated that their desire is to return the
speed limit to 25 mph, noting that the surrounding streets have 25 mph
speed limits. He added that the reduced speed limit will give their
neighborhood a residential feel. He believed that the 85 percentile rate
needs to be reduced to whatever is enforceable for 25 mph if Police
enforcement is the way they have to go. Further, that they only acquiesced
to the City to raise the speed limit to 30 mph in order to conduct the traffic
study. He indicated that he reviewed a seven day study from 1996 and
believed that it is a more concise estimate of the traffic flow and counts.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's question, Mr. Bond stated that
they had previously sketched out sidewalks, but he does not believe in
cutting back into the yards in order to install the sidewalks since the streets
are wide enough to encroach into the street.
• Mayor Noyes reported that Mayor Pro Tem Adams will be out of town on
July 11. Following discussion, it was the consensus of Council to bring this
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May 9, 2000
issue back at the next meeting for a status report.
INDEX
In response to Council Member Debay's question about returning the speed
limit back to 25 mph, Mr. Bludau reminded Council that the reason the
speed limit was increased to 30 mph was not to conduct speed tests, but to
conduct enforcement. Further, that the speed limit cannot be reduced if the
85 percentile is at 32 or 33 mph. Council Member Debay asked that the
Costa Mesa streets be reviewed to determine how many of the streets are
posted 25 mph. Mayor Pro Tem Adams pointed out that the difference
between this section and other parts of Santiago Drive is that it is a
designated collector street and the others are designated residential streets.
He stated that he feels pretty confident that the City was able to get the
speeds lower on this section than any of the other streets in the area.
Mr. Bludau added that the Police Department has told him that speeding is
not any worse on this street than anywhere else in town.
Mayor Noyes clarified that this item will be brought back at the next
meeting so that a status report can be provided on when a consultant's
report and recommendation will be brought before Council, hoping that it
will be brought back at the June 27 Council meeting.
16. APPOINTMENT BY MAYOR OF AD -HOC APPOINTMENTS
COMMITTEE TO REVIEW APPLICATIONS AND MAKE
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE FULL COUNCIL FOR THE BOARD
• AND COMMISSION VACANCIES SCHEDULED TO OCCUR ON
JUNE 30, 2000 (contd. from 4/25/00).
Motion by Council Member Glover to confirm the Mayor's appointment
of Council Member Thomson, Council Member Ridgeway, and Mayor Pro
Tom Adams to serve on the Ad Hoc Appointments Committee.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
17. ORAL UPDATE ON THE GENERAL DREDGING PERMIT
Deputy City Manager Kiff reported that he and Deputy Fire and Marine
Chief Melum attended the Coastal Commission meeting in Santa Rosa
earlier today. Regarding the City's general dredging permit that allows
property owners along the bay to dredge their piers, he stated that they were
able to get the Coastal Commission to reduce the number of corings for beach
nourishment and ocean disposal, and they agreed to allow disposal of
anything below 80 percent sand into the sea. Regarding eelgrass, he
indicated that the Commission's regulation was unreasonable and noted that
the City will be embarking on an expensive comprehensive eelgrass
• restoration plan throughout the bay to find places where eelgrass can grow
that will not be impacted by dredging or impact the piers. Because of this,
he reported that the Commission agreed to allow the City to mitigate offsite
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at those mitigation banks. He indicated that the City received a five year
general dredging permit, but that South Balboa Island, South Lido Isle,
Linda Isle, Rhine Channel, and Upper Newport Bay are not included in the
general dredging permit. Those residents can still obtain individual permits
from the Commission but cannot follow the City's permit until additional
testing is conducted. He added that the Commission agreed to work with the
City in developing the tests. He indicated that the City requested that
individuals not be required to submit separate dredging applications to the
Commission for the Executive Director's review and approval, but the
Commission was not willing to negotiate that item. He reported that
Commission staff promised to expedite the applications so this process does
not delay dredging jobs and that the City intends to keep them to that
promise.
In response to Mayor Noyes' question regarding additional tests in order to
place more material on the beach, Mr. Kiff believed that the testing can be
done in a two to three month time period. He indicated that bids are out to
companies that could conduct the testing for about $40,000 to $60,000.
Council Member Debay expressed her appreciation to Mr. Kiff because he
and Mr. Melum went to Santa Rosa today and was still able to attend the
Council meeting to provide a report. Noting that the Commission did not
provide him with the opportunity to rebut Commission staffs comments
after he spoke, Council Member Debay asked if it would be beneficial to have
an elected official with him if he needs to go before the Commission again.
Mr. Kiff believed that the Commission would still be as dogmatic with an
elected official as they were with him, but indicated that it may help.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's question, Mr. Kiff indicated that
the dredging jobs that were on hold until this matter was settled can move
forward at this time, as long as the conditions set in the general permit are
followed. He reported that the dredgers that normally work in the City are
aware of the conditions and are ready to proceed.
18. ORAL REPORT ON THE GENERAL PLAN UPDATE COMMITTEE.
Mayor Noyes explained that Council is trying to form a General Plan Update
Committee that will be chaired by Mayor Pro Tem Adams and also include
Council Member Glover and Council Member Ridgeway. City Manager
Bludau added that the thought behind the committee was to form a Council
Ad Hoc Committee to assist Council in determining an approach for the
General Plan revision. He indicated that it is suggested that the committee
be composed of three Council members, three Planning Commissioners, one
Environmental Quality Affairs Citizens Advisory Committee member, one
Economic Development Committee member, and one Aviation Committee
member, all appointed by the Mayor. The committee would be responsible
for the first phase of developing a work program for the General Plan
update. He indicated that Phase I would be to design and conduct a
preliminary community outreach program that would have broad
participation geographically throughout the community in order to get input;
solicit the cross - section of community interests and special issues through
various meetings; and recommend the scale and scope of the General Plan
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• update based on the feedback. The committee could use the information to
refine their recommendation and develop a draft work program for Council
to consider and identify necessary resources to accomplish the work. He
stated that, if Council then determines to commence with the General Plan
update, the committee can form the basis for a steering committee, bring in
more stakeholders on an "as needed" basis, and provide guidance to staff and
consultants on what areas of the General Plan need to be looked at for
changes.
Mayor Noyes requested that this item be brought back at the next meeting
so that Council can form the General Plan Update Committee and he can
appoint members to the committee.
CURRENT BUSINESS
19. ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF PROPOSALS FOR FUTURE
USE/DEVELOPMENT OF MARINAPARK.
Assistant City Manager Wood stated that, in addition to the economic
analysis, a traffic impact analysis and the types of planning entitlements
that would be required for the proposals are included in the staff report. She
reported that the maximum average daily trips that any of the proposals
would generate are a little over 7,000 and that there would not be significant
traffic impacts since a majority of the trips would not occur during the
• morning and evening peak hours. With the exception of proposals from the
American Legion and the Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission
(PB &R), she reported that the other proposals would require amendments to
the General Plan and the Local Coastal Program, as well as a Planned
Community Development Plan. Additionally, the projects requiring
redevelopment would also require compliance with the Traffic Phasing
Ordinance. Ms. Wood stated that, if Council follows the recommendation to
narrow the proponent list, staff feels it would be helpful if Council also
provide direction relative to the retention of public and quasi -public uses,
goals for a public marina, determine the minimum ground lease if one is set,
and the entitlement issue with the State Lands Commission. She clarified
that the relocation impact report has been started and is expected to be
completed by August.
Stephen Copenhaver, GRC Associates, Inc., utilized a Power Point
presentation throughout his report. He stated that the property is about
8.8 acres and that the request for proposals (RFP) included goals to seek
high quality development, a secure revenue stream, development that is
sensitive to the adjacent properties and government regulations, a feasible
project, and a catalyst for the peninsula. He added that the RFP asked
detailed questions relative to experience and financing capabilities, project
description, development proforma, schedule, and consultant team; however,
he believed that none of the proposals met all the requirements of the RFP.
Mr. Copenhaver highlighted the eight proposals as outlined in the staff
• report, adding that Ficker and Stevens did not put together a real proposal;
RHC Communities did not provide a proforma and an explanation of how the
buildings would be funded; PB &R would probably require more than the
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proposed 2.5 acres; Terra Vista Management suggested that the City would
receive five percent of the resale value of any mobile home and they would
receive about six to eight percent; the American Legion can afford a much
higher lease rate since it has an increasing membership, strong revenue
stream, and the marina can create substantial revenue; Ayres Hotel Group
values the lots on Balboa Boulevard at a much lower rate than those that
have harbor views; Bendetti Company may be trying to do too much on the
property and there is a concern about having retail business that is not
visible from Balboa Boulevard; and Sutherland Talla Hospitality provided no
real market feasibility information in the proposal. He indicated that the
proposed revenues range from $1 million to more than $3 million; however,
he believed that the City could not make any type of decision based on the
information in the RFPs.
Mr. Copenhaver reported that residential uses lend the highest land value to
the area. The City would receive about $19,500 in land lease proceeds for
each residential unit that is constructed on the site and $16,500 for mobile
homes. However, a hotel would be the greatest revenue generator for the
City because the City nets nine percent from the Transient Occupancy Tax
(TOT). Assuming a room rate of $175 a night with 72 percent occupancy, he
stated that each hotel room would generate about $4,100 a year in TOT. He
added that GRC suggests that not much emphasis be placed on retail uses or
office development.
• Mr. Copenhaver stated that GRC recommends that the City short list, but
not discard proposals that restructure the leases as suggested by the
American Legion and Terra Vista Management. However, the City should
short list at least to the two developers that are suggesting redevelopment
and provide them time to respond with a more detailed proposal. He added
that narrowing the list will also give the City better proposals. He reported
that many of the proposals did not discuss the topics involved with leasing
property. Regarding public uses, he pointed out that many of the proposals
assumed that the American Legion had to be included in either the same
building or a new building, rent free. Further, the concept of a visitor
marina was included in many of the plans since past studies discussed it. He
believed that the City should clarify the American Legion issue and whether
the City desires a visitor marina. Regarding the tidelands boundary, he
reported that the City hired an engineer to study this and emphasized that
the boundaries could have an immense impact on the proposals. He strongly
suggested getting the results of that effort from the engineer before
requesting the proponents to produce more detailed plans. He recommended
that the minimum rent be $1.25 million a year, based on the range of land
uses, prior studies, and developer concepts.
Mayor Pro Tem Adams asked how much flexibility the short listees will have
to change their proposals. Mr. Copenhaver believed that the proposals
should be substantially in compliance with the original proposal. He
indicated that it would be difficult to keep the revenue stream calculation in
substantial compliance since real pro£ormas were not included.
• Noting that the State and the City have about $20 million worth of property
in this site, Council Member Thomson reported that the return is only a
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• little more than six percent if the minimum rent is $1.25 million a year and
asked if this could be increased to ten percent. Mr. Copenhaver pointed out
that the amount of developable land is reduced when public uses are
included.
Council Member Ridgeway stated that he lives a block from Marinapark and
that the property is in his district. He indicated that he cannot agree with
GRC's recommendations, reporting that the RFP was not responded to well
and that he does not want to cut anyone out at this point by short listing. He
noted that this will start to become very expensive for the proponents since
they need to prepare a specific site plan, detailed proforma of cost and rent,
and take the political environment into consideration. He indicated that he
met with each of the proponents and believed that a strong direction needs
to go back to them. He reported that he believes PB &R will not compete and
that the American Legion probably will not compete either. He expressed
the opinion that the City should have a long term income stream. Regarding
the State Lands Commission, Council Member Ridgeway believed that the
tidelands issue will be resolved in hopefully six months and noted that the
City Attorney has been given clear direction on clarifying that matter
through a court process. He concluded by stating that he believes that any
proposal should include open space since many of the amenities are shared
with the peninsula and that everyone is on notice that they will have to
spend time, money, and effort to bring back a bankable proposal.
• Mayor Pro Tem Adams stated that he agreed with short listing after reading
the report. However, if a short list does not happen, he expressed concern
about the investment that all the proponents would have to make. He
indicated that he would not be willing to short list the Bendetti Company
since their proposal is too dense for the peninsula.
Council Member O'Neil stated that everyone has their opinions about this
property and how to use it. He emphasized that the City has to deal with
the problem of the two existing uses on the property (American Legion and
mobile home park) and noted that the American Legion remained a
permitted use on all the proposals but the mobile home park was only
included in some of the proposals. He believed that Council does not have a
problem with giving the proponents direction on the American Legion, but
the mobile home park residents will probably not voluntarily agree to
abandon the site. He emphasized that appropriate uses and the
tidelands /uplands issue should be resolved prior to requiring any of the
proponents to conduct studies and invest the money and effort that is
required to zero -in on something that Council can better evaluate. He
questioned how they would be able to make a proposal without this
information. He indicated that he is not in favor of eliminating anyone
because it is still undecided on what can be placed on the site. Council
Member O'Neil pointed out that the report indicated that none of the
proposals provided a sufficient level of information to fully evaluate the
project. He agreed that Council needs to provide direction and guidance to
the proponents, but they are not in a position to do that now because of the
• tidelands issue. He reiterated that he favors not short listing the proposals
or getting further information while the City is involved in developing a
relocation plan in the event the mobile home park is closed and involved in
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the legal effort to define tidelands and uplands boundaries. He believed that
it would not be fair or right to eliminate anybody in the interim.
Council Member Ridgeway stated that he reminded all the proponents that
the area is a residential neighborhood and that the project should be
compatible with the neighborhood. He reported that a hotel is compatible,
but a highly dense commercial project is not since the peninsula is overzoned
for retail, commercial, and office. He believed that Council should look at
rezoning other areas in the peninsula for more residential zoning and that a
timeframe should be set to get further financial statements and more
specificity to the programs so that the proponents can be eliminated as the
process moves forward.
Council Member Thomson believed that no possible uses should be
eliminated since the City may be six months away from receiving a decision
from the State Lands Commission and that another developer may come
forward. He added that Council should not just narrow the list down to the
individuals who responded to the RFP.
In response to Council Member Debay's question, Mr. Copenhaver believed
that it would be premature to have the proponents bring back a more
detailed proposal when the City has not received a decision about the
tidelands issue which determines what can be placed on the site. Regarding
Council Member Debay's request that a traffic study be included in a future
• study, he noted that there are no dimension drawings. She expressed the
opinion that the site is underutilized and indicated that the best use for the
residential nature and for the benefit of the City would figure into any
decision she makes.
Motion by Council Member Ridgeway to continue to consider all
proposals (no short listing) and request financial statements, a specific
proposal plan, and preliminary pro£ormas on revenue to the City.
Dr. Patricia Frostholm, 1805 W. Bay Avenue, provided Council with
correspondence which indicates that she and her husband stand to be most
affected by a change from the quiet residential area to a hotel since they live
very near to the site. She reported that they currently suffer from the noise
from the Best Western Hotel located at the back of them. She believes that
it was a big mistake for Council to permit Best Western to add two units
since they actually built five units and only created two parking spaces. She
expressed the opinion that the site should be used to build a community
center and public park. Noting that most people cannot afford to stay at an
expensive hotel, she expressed hope that Council will utilize the site so that
everyone can enjoy it and stated that their decision will affect the soul of the
community forever. Regarding the American Legion, Dr. Frostholm stated
that the City let them use the land because they were grateful for the
sacrifices made by these people in World War II and that the City would be
very ignorant and mean to take that away from them.
• Val Skoro stated that he agreed with Council Member Debay's statement
that the site is a jewel and believed that it should be a benefit to the entire
City. He indicated that, as years have passed, views have eroded throughout
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• the City, but that it would be beautiful if there was still an open window to
view the bay and boats while driving down Balboa Boulevard. He added
that he understands the need for a revenue stream, but believed that no
rational decision can be made until the tidelands issue is resolved.
In response to Ms. Wood's question regarding a timeframe, Council Member
Ridgeway amended his motion to also direct staff to bring this back at the
July 25 Council meeting.
In response to Council Member Ridgeway's question, Public Works Director
Webb stated that the City does not have boundary surveys but has a GIS
system that includes the tract boundaries and shows a fairly good record of
the dimensions of the property. City Attorney Burnham added that he does
not believe that a tract map has even been filed.
In response to concerns relative to the proponents spending additional funds,
Council Member Ridgeway indicated that he has been involved in these
types of processes and that it would be easy to spend $25,000 even though
they are still in a competition. He asked if it would be appropriate to do a
boundary survey, but Mr. Webb indicated that it would not do the City any
good until the tideland boundaries are determined. Mr. Burnham added
that the City has a report which assists them to place a line on the map that
is consistent with what is believed to represent the line of mean high tide.
Regarding planning purposes, Mr. Webb reiterated that the GIS mapping
• system will give the dimensions, plus or minus five to ten feet. Ms. Wood
stated that she did not think that Council was requesting dimension
drawings at this point, but just requesting financial information. Council
Member Ridgeway concurred, but noted that dimension site plans are
needed to do an accurate proforma so that all costs can be calculated.
The amended motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Thomson, Glover, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes: Adams
Abstain: None
Absent: None
20. RENEWAL OF McFADDEN PLACE FARMERS MARKET
AGREEMENT.
Motion by Council Member Rid ewav to approve the First Amendment
to the Encroachment Agreement, which allows for annual renewal by the
City Manager for up to three one -year terms and to reduce the monthly lease
payment to $130 year round.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes:
Thomson, Glover, Adams, Debay, Ridgeway, O'Neil, Mayor Noyes
Noes:
None
Abstain:
None
• Absent:
None
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MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION - None.
- at 10:00 p.m. in memory of Debbie Gray.
The agenda for the Regular Meeting was posted on May 4, 2000, at
11:30 a.rrL on the City Hall Bulletin Board located outside of the City of
Newport Beach Administration Building.
City Clerk
Recording Sgcretary
Mayor
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