HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/27/2003 - Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting
May 27, 2003 - 7:00 p.m.
STUDY SESSION - 4:00 p.m.
INDEX
CLOSED SESSION - 6:00 p.m
A. RECESSED AND RECONVENED AT 7:00 P.M. FOR REGULAR
MEETING
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Bromberg
Absent: Adams
C. CLOSED SESSION REPORT - None.
D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Council Member Proctor.
E. INVOCATION - The Reverend Praveen Bunyan, St. James Episcopal Church.
F. PRESENTATIONS
Youth Council Annual Presentation. Aaron Israel, Chairman of the
Newport Beach Youth Council, recognized the members of the Youth Council in
attendance at the meeting. Using a PowerPoint presentation, Alex Greer, Vice
Chairman, displayed the Youth Council's mission statement, purpose and
responsibilities, accomplishments and future goals. Mr. Greer thanked the City
Council for its involvement.
Mayor Bromberg thanked the Youth Council for all they've done and encouraged
the members to continue with their community participation.
Presentation of APA Award of Merit for Visioning Process. Assistant
City Manager Wood announced that the Orange County Section of the American
Planning Association awarded the City with the 2003 Award of Merit for
Planning Implementation in a Small Jurisdiction for the City's general plan
visioning process. She thanked the City Council for its support and the
members of the public that participated in the process.
Proclamation declaring Sunday, June 1, 2003 as the 10th Annual
Celebrate Balboa Island Day. Mayor Bromberg presented proclamations to
Fire Chief Riley, Balboa Island Business Association President Sherry Drewry,
Balboa Island Improvement Association President Craig Page and Little Balboa
Island Property Owners Association Vice President Jeff Herdman,
congratulating them for their community spirit and proclaiming June 1, 2003,
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City of Newport Beach
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May 27, 2003
INDEX
as the 10th Annual Celebrate Balboa Island Day.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway displayed the t -shirt received by the council members
in recognition of the day.
G. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
H. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH COUNCIL
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR
DISCUSSION. ACTION OR REPORT (NON- DISCUSSION ITEM):
Mayor Bromberg stated that Council Member :Nichols made an
accusation at the Planning Commission meeting of May 22, 2003, that a
planning commissioner, or planning commissioners, took a bribe on a
particular issue. Mayor Bromberg stated that he didn't think this had
ever happened in the City before. He requested that the City Attorney
prepare a report on the testimony given by Council Member Nichols and
that if the report establishes that Council Member '.Nichols did make the
accusation with no factual basis, that a discussion on possible sanctions,
including the issue of censure, also be included in the report.
Additionally, Mayor Bromberg requested that the report include what
action the City Council should, or could, take to avoid such conduct in
the future.
• Council Member Heffernan requested a report on the status of the
refilling of the San Joaquin Hills Reservoir.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway stated that an Environmental Impact Report
(EIR) is being circulated on the San Joaquin Hills Reservoir.
• Council Member Nichols stated that he will be calling up the item
mentioned earlier by Mayor Bromberg during the report of the Planning
Commission agenda, Item No. 20, for discussion.
Mayor Bromberg stated that it would not be a discussion item. He
explained that it is only a report of what action was taken at the
Planning Commission meeting.
Council Member Nichols stated that he made his comments at the
Planning Commission meeting because he felt that the action taken by
the Planning Commission was illogical. He stated that he didn't mean
to imply improper behavior or dishonesty by individual planning
commissioners, but that the result of their decision did not seem to be
equitable.
City Attorney Burnham stated that it is inappropriate to discuss the
substance of the comments made by Council Member Nichols at the
Planning Commission meeting during this portion of the agenda.
Mayor Bromberg added that if the Planning Commission item is called -
up and comes back to the City Council, it would then be the appropriate
time to discuss the matter further.
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• Mayor Bromberg requested that a future agenda item address the
restructuring of the Oil & Gas Field Operations Committee and the
Coastal/Bay Water Quality Citizens Advisory Committee.
• Mayor Bromberg announced that the appointments for the vacancies on
the boards and commissions would be made at the City Council meeting
of June 24, 2003. He stated that approximately 100 applications were
received for the vacancies and that the Ad Hoc Appointments
Committee will be interviewing about a third of those that applied.
I. CONSENT CALENDAR
READING OF MINUTES /ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
1. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Webb.
2. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by a member of the
audience.
ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION
3. TOW TRUCK ORDINANCE. Adopt Ordinance No. 2003 -8.
4. AMENDMENT TO MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 12.44.027,
NEIGHBORHOOD ENHANCEMENT RESERVE. Adopt Ordinance
No. 2003 -9.
RESOLUTIONS FOR ADOPTION
5. RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE CITY S 2003 -04
LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM. Adopt Resolution No. 2003 -24 adopting
a Legislative Platform for 2003 -04 and authorizing the Mayor to issue
statements and letters consistent with the Platform.
6. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Webb.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
7. PROFESSIONAL SERVICES — BUDGET AMENDMENT.
1) Authorize the City Manager to enter into a $66,557 contract with
Mr. Larry Paul of Tetra -Tech, Inc. for consultant services relating to
Newport Bay; and 2) approve a budget amendment (BA -069) in the
amount of $128,600 transferring revenue from unencumbered reserves
to the City Manager's Professional and Technical Services (8080)
Account.
S. 2002 -2003 CITYWIDE SLURRY PROGRAM — REJECT BID FOR
(C- 3559). Reject the bid received for C -3559 and authorize staff to re-
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INDEX
Ord 2003 -8
Tow Trucks (70)
Ord 2003 -9
Neighborhood
Enhancement
Reserve (40)
Res 2003 -24
Legislative
Platform
(48)
C -3614
BA -069
Harbor Projects
(38/40)
C -3559
2002 -2003 Slurry
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
INDEX
Volume 56 - Page 171
advertise the project.
Program (38)
9.
IRVINE AVENUE MEDIAN LANDSCAPING II (DOVER DRIVE
C -3576
TO HOLIDAY ROAD) - AWARD OF CONTRACT (C- 3576).
BA -070
1) Approve the plans and specifications; 2) award the contract (C -3576)
Irvine Avenue
to DMA Greencare Contracting for the total bid price of $189,995.56 and
Median
authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute the contract;
Landscaping II
3) establish an amount of $18,954.44 to cover the cost of unforeseen
(38/40)
work; and 4) approve a budget amendment (BA -o70) appropriating
$62,530 from the unappropriated balance of the Circulation and
Transportation Fund to Account loo. 7261- C5100696.
10.
OCEAN FRONT BEACH ACCESS WALKWAYS - AWARD OF
C -3378
CONTRACT (C- 3378). 1) Approve the plans and specifications;
BA -071
2) award the contract (C -3378) to Terra Pave, Inc. for the total bid price
Ocean Front
of $67,132 and authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute the
Beach Access
contract; 3) establish an amount of 56,700 to cover the cost of unforeseen
Walkways
work; and 4) approve a budget amendment (BA -071) transferring
(38/40)
$13,832 from Tidelands Account No. 7231- CO310684 to Account
No. 7231- C5100568.
11.
21sT STREET/NEWPORT BOULEVARD INTERSECTION
C -3615
IMPROVEMENTS, APPROVAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
211 Street /
AGREEMENT WITH METROPOINTE ENGINEERS. Approve a
Newport Blvd.
Professional Services Agreement with Metropointe Engineers of Costa
Intersection
Mesa at a contract price of $87,330 and authorize the Mayor and City
Improvements
Clerk to execute the Agreement.
(38)
12.
Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Heffernan.
13.
ANNUAL FINANCIAL AUDIT CONTRACT RENEWAL. Authorize
C -3350
the City Manager to renew the contract with the CPA firm of Conrad
Annual Financial
and Associates, L.L.P. to perform the City's annual financial audit for
Audit
the fiscal years ending June 30, 2003, 2004, and 2005.
(38)
14.
APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
C -3617
WITH DAVID VOLZ DESIGN FOR GRANT PROPOSAL WORK
BA -073
AND BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR MORNING CANYON /
Morning Canyon/
WATERSHED PROJECT PLANNING. 1) Approve a Professional
Watershed
Services Agreement for Newport Watershed Grant Proposal Services
Project
with David Volz Design (DVD) in the amount of $39,906 and authorize
(38/40)
the Mayor and the City Clerk to execute the Agreement; and 2) approve
a budget amendment (BA -073) appropriating $64,906 from the
unappropriated balance of the General Fund to Account No. 7014 -
05100711 Morning Canyon/Watershed Projects.
MISCELLANEOUS ACTIONS
15.
2003 -04 PROPOSED BUDGET HEARING; 2003 -04
Budget and
APPROPRIATION LIMIT HEARING. Schedule a public hearing of
Appropriation
the City's Proposed Budget and Appropriation Limit for the 2003 -04
Limit Hearings
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City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
fiscal year on June 10, 2003, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers;
and direct the City Clerk to publish a notice of said hearings.
16. UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION.
1) Accept resignation of Shant Agajanian (Planning Commission)
effective May 19, 2003; 2) waive noticing and appointment requirements
pertaining to unscheduled vacancies as outlined in City Council Policy
A -2; and 3) confirm the direction provided by the Ad Hoc Appointments
Committee to incorporate the appointment for this vacancy with the
appointments to fill the scheduled vacancies.
17. APPOINTMENT OF COMMITTEE TO DISCUSS LEASE TERMS
FOR MARINAPARK PROPERTY WITH SUTHERLAND TALLA
HOSPITALITY. Confirm Mayor's appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
Ridgeway and Council Member Heffernan.
18. COMMENTS ON DRAFT FIR ON IRVINE RANCH WATER
DISTRICT'S NATURAL TREATMENT SYSTEM PROGRAM.
Approve and authorize the Mayor to send comment letter.
19. LEGAL PUBLICATIONS FOR ONE -YEAR CONTRACT
COVERING FISCAL YEAR JULY 1, 2003 TO JUNE 30, 2004.
Authorize the City Clerk to publish a notice advertising for bids to be
received on or before the hour of 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2003
for a one -year contract covering the publishing and printing of legal
notices, or other material required to be published and circulated in the
City of Newport Beach.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway to approve the Consent Calendar,
except for those items removed (1, 2, 6 and 12).
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Bromberg
Does: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
J. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
1. MINUTES OF THE ADJOURNED REGULAR AND REGULAR
MEETING OF MAY 13, 2003 AND SPECIAL MEETING OF
MAY 21, 2003.
Council Member Webb clarified his statement on Page 121 of the Study
Session minutes. He stated that what he requested was an estimate for
budget consideration on the installation of toilet seats at all public
restrooms.
Jim Hildreth stated that the portion of the Balboa Island Bridge that he
brought to the City Council meeting of May 13, 2003, isn't described well
in the Regular Meeting minutes. Further, on Page 129, he stated that
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INDEX
(40)
Planning
Commission
Unscheduled
Vacancy
(24)
Marinapark
Property Lease
Terms Committee
(24)
IRWD Natural
Treatment
System (51)
Legal
Publications
2003 -2004
(32)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
he was only speaking of one individual who was required to put in a
stainless steel grounding rod. He stated that the minutes need to be
recorded correctly. He additionally noted that when he discussed the
municipal code section, he stated that the City is to keep and maintain
pier permit records, and when mentioning the Harbor Resources
Director, he mentioned him by name, Tony Melum. Mr. Hildreth stated
that at the conclusion of his comments on Page 140, the Mayor's
statement about revelers is not recorded either. He noted that some
took offense to the statement.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway to waive reading of subject
minutes, approve as written and order filed.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
2. READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS.
Jim Hildreth stated that the general public expects a short excerpt of
the agenda items to be stated at the meetings. He requested that the
highlights of what is being presented to the City Council be read.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway to waive reading in full of all
ordinances and resolutions under consideration, and direct City Clerk to
read by title only.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
6. FOURTH OF JULY STREET CLOSURE RESOLUTION.
Council Member Webb noted that the resolution includes Back Bay
Drive as one of the authorized streets that may be closed. He requested
that a recital be included in the resolution that explains why Back Bay
Drive is included, and that he doesn't understand why it might need to
be closed since it's an isolated area.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway stated that it's a queuing location for vehicles
on the 41h of July and is included as a safety measure.
Police Chief McDonell added that it is not intended that the closure will
occur, but the authority needs to be in place in case it is determined that
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INDEX
Res 2003 -25
4th of July
Street Closure
(70)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
a closure is warranted. He cited tire danger as an example of requiring
the need to close Back Bay Drive.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway to adopt Resolution
No. 2003 -25 authorizing the temporary closure of Seashore Drive,
Newport Boulevard and Balboa Boulevard, and selected feeder streets.
Council Member Webb asked if a recital could be added that provides
the reasons for needing to close Back Bay Drive.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway stated that the recital already provides
reasons for the closures and doesn't designate by geographical area.
City Attorney Burnham stated that he could add language incorporating
the Police Chiefs remarks and a discussion of the roadway.
Amended Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway to adopt Resolution
No. 2003 -25 authorizing the temporary closure of Seashore Drive,
Newport Boulevard and Balboa Boulevard, and selected feeder streets,
as amended to include a recital discussing the reasons for a possible
closure of Back Bay Drive.
The amended motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
12. AWARD OF LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT FOR
BONITA CANYON SPORTS PARK.
Council Member Heffernan stated that the project has been plagued
with contractor problems. He stated that his concern for bringing in
another contractor to perform the ongoing landscape maintenance is
that the City might release or compromise its rights to make a claim
against the contractor to require that any defects be corrected. General
Services Director Niederhaus stated that staff really has no other choice
than to recommend an assumption of maintenance and that it would be
in the best interest of the City to have direct control over the
maintenance to insure that the fields will be ready for use in the Fall.
Council Member Heffernan recalled that there were some mechanical
defects with such items as sprinkler valves and backflow devices. City
Manager Bludau stated that the problems have been fixed and that the
items also come with a warranty. He added that the City feels
comfortable taking over the maintenance and that it won't waive any
liability issues that might arise in the future.
In response to Council Member Webb's question, General Services
Director Niederhaus stated that the City will assume the maintenance
of the landscaping on June 1, 2003, except for the west area, which will
be assumed a couple months later under the proposed contract.
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C -3616
Landscape
Maintenance
Bonita Canyon
Sports Park
(3S)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
11011a.4
Jim Hildreth stated that the contractor who failed to meet their
obligations should have been named in the staff report.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway to approve the agreement with
TruGreen LandCare to provide landscape maintenance of Bonita
Canyon Sports Park at an annual cost of $116,736 for the entire park;
and authorize the contract to take effect June 1, 2003 for services to
commence only at the completed areas of the Park (mid and east areas).
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
?Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
K. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Richard Spane stated that he also spoke at the City Council meeting of
May 13, 2003, regarding the $4 million grant to the Airport Working
Group (AWG). Mr. Spane stated that the City's reports have indicated
that there were serious problems with the way the money was spent,
that some individuals were paid twice for the same job and that moneys
were commingled. He stated that the citizens were promised an audit
by November 2002, and that it was said to be a requirement. He
expressed his understanding that several council members do not want
an audit, but Mr. Spane requested that an audit be done. He stated that
his next step will be to see if there are any indictable situations.
City Attorney Burnham stated that the report that was prepared may
not have been a formal audit, but was a thorough analysis of the grant
expenditures. He added that some minor issues were reported but
overall, the funds were used consistent with the terms and conditions of
the grant. City Attorney Burnham stated that the grant does not have
an expiration date and the grant funds were to be used by AWG for a
wide variety of purposes related to transportation in Orange County.
He disagreed with Mr. Spane's characterization of the report, and felt
that the report identified how the funds were spent. City Manager
Bludau added that the report was a compliance audit, warrants were
checked and there was no suspicion that the money was used unwisely
or illegally.
Jim Hildreth stated that the house at 109 Grand Canal was built
without a building permit, the owner was cited and given certain
criteria to follow. Mr. Hildreth stated that the owner complied with the
criteria and was able to build his house. Additionally, Mr. Hildreth
stated that the government classifies a disabled individual as one who
cannot lift ten pounds, cannot stand and walk for two hours, and cannot
sit for six hours. He stated that he doesn't qualify as a disabled
individual, but that he is physically handicapped. He noted that a
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City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
INDEX
person who is shown to have a physical impairment is allowed certain
variances by the City. He specifically noted that the relocation of the
ladder at the southwest end of the Grand Canal as being unjustified.
Mayor Bromberg stated that the issue of the shore mooring, referred to
by Mr. Hildreth, was previously considered by the City Council. He
stated that it was decided not to move the shore mooring to a location
that was readily accessible. Mayor Bromberg requested that the issue
be revisited.
• Dolores Otting suggested that the public have access to the audio tapes
of the Planning Commission meetings. She referred to various items on
the current agenda that involved the expenditure of money, and stated
that money should be spent that would allow the public to get a copy of
the Planning Commission meeting tapes. She requested that this be
considered during the budgeting process.
Mayor Bromberg stated that he knows the issue has been addressed
before, and was brought up again after the recent Planning Commission
meeting. He reported that the tape of that meeting has been copied and
a transcript is being prepared, but that there is a compatibility problem
with the equipment that is used. He requested that research be done to
find a system that will alleviate the compatibility problem.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway agreed that the compatibility problem is
unacceptable. He requested that the Planning Department make their
equipment compatible with the City Clerk's office. City Clerk Harkless
stated that it is not a compatibility issue between the two departments,
but a result of the equipment that is used in the Council Chambers,
which is multi - channel and records at a different speed. She added that
staff has researched the issue, and that the remedy is expensive and
time consuming.
Mayor Bromberg requested that the issue be looked at again.
Council Member Heffernan asked why the recording of the meetings is
so difficult. City Clerk Harkless stated that it is partly due to the fact
that the system has to be tied into every microphone in the Council
Chambers.
• Brain Clarkson stated that at the City Council meeting of May 13, 2003,
it was suggested that a town hall meeting be held to discuss the 4th of
July issues and possible solutions. He stated that he has had
conversations with the City Attorney and the Police Chief about the
details of setting up the meeting. Mr. Clarkson stated that
commitments are pending from some of the council members, and
expressed his support for holding the meeting.
City Attorney Burnham stated that he has been in contact with
Mr. Clarkson, that it will be a City- sponsored town hall event and that
anyone from the public will be invited to attend. Pending confirmation
from Hoag Hospital, which has been selected as the site for the meeting,
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City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
City Attorney Burnham stated that he only contacted the rest of the
council members earlier in the day.
L. ORAL REPORTS FROM CITY COUNCIL ON COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
Status report — Ad Hoc General Plan Update Committee (GPUC). Mayor
Bromberg reported that GPUC did not meet since the last City Council meeting.
Status report — Local Coastal Program Certification Committee. Mayor
Pro Tem Ridgeway reported that there was also nothing new to report in regard
to this committee.
Status report — Newport Coast Advisory Committee. Assistant City
Manager Ki£f reported that the previous week, the Fire Department posted the
fuel modification zones that still have potential hazards in the event of a wild
land fire. He stated that a meeting was held with the Newport Ridge
Homeowners Association Board, who was very receptive to do something
quickly.
Council Member Heffernan added that the Fire Department surveyed the
Newport Ridge area to ascertain current conditions. Once that was completed,
notices were posted and enforcement began. He stated that, for public safety
reasons, it is important for the Fire Department to be proactive.
Status report — Mariners Joint Use Library Ad Hoc Steering Committee.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway reported that colors and materials were selected, and
a cost estimate will now be performed.
M. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA AND ORAL STATUS REPORT
20. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA FOR MAY 22, 2003.
Assistant City Manager Wood stated that the first item on the Planning
Commission agenda involved an amendment to an existing use permit to
increase the number of eating and drinking establishments at the new
Bluffs Commercial Center. The item was approved by the Planning
Commission. The second item was a request to allow an increase in the
number of seats, and the sale of beer and wine at E1 Tarasco. The
Planning Commission approved the request and also allowed the
restaurant to remain open until 2:30 a.m.
Assistant City Manager Wood stated that the next item on the agenda
involved a variance for the Ciraulo residence on South Bay Front. She
stated that the circumstances were unusual because the construction
had gone beyond what the building permit allowed and the additional
construction on the third level required a variance for exceeding the
height limit. She stated that the Planning Commission recognized that
the property owner was unaware that unauthorized construction took
place and that removing the unauthorized construction would have
significant engineering and financial consequences. The findings,
however, that are required for a variance couldn't be made, so the
Planning Commission denied the variance.
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INDEX
Planning
Commission
(6S)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
She stated that the final item on the agenda was a review of the Capital
Improvement Program (CIP), which was found to be consistent with the
general plan and other local policy documents.
Council Member Nichols requested that the Ciraulo residence item be
called up.
Council Member Proctor asked if recusal is obligatory since the council
member that is calling up the item testified at the Planning Commission
meeting and has a position on the item. City Attorney Burnham stated
that the issue is being researched.
Mayor Bromberg requested that the property owner not be prejudiced or
compromised. City Attorney Burnham stated that recusal is not
required with respect to the call up. The issue would only arise in the
context of the hearing itself.
N. PUBLIC HEARINGS
21. CODE AMENDMENT CA 2003 -004 - ABO AMENDMENT (PA
2003 -090) - AMENDS THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OUTLET
(ABO) ORDINANCE (CHAPTER 20.89) TO PROHIBIT OFF -SALE
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE OUTLETS FROM SELLING OR
STORING ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OUTSIDE OF THE
EXTERIOR WALLS OF THE ESTABLISHMENT.
Mayor Bromberg opened the public hearing.
Brian Clarkson stated that Free Newport opposes the amendment
because the City Council is attempting to dry up West Newport on the
4th of July and the residents of West Newport don't want it. He stated
that alcohol is not an illegal drug and prohibition only showed an
increase in crime, resentment towards police officers and higher alcohol
consumption rates. Mr. Clarkson added that West Newport shouldn't be
treated differently than the rest of the community. He stated that the
petition that was presented at the City Council of May 13, 2003,
included opposition to an alcohol storage ban.
Mayor Bromberg stated that the petition that was presented wasn't
really a petition, and that the amendment that is being proposed is only
requiring alcoholic beverage outlets to sell their alcohol within the walls
of the establishment. Mayor Bromberg read an e -mail he received from
a citizen in support of the City Council's actions to attempt to control the
4th of July mayhem on the Balboa Peninsula.
Council Member Proctor stated that the amendment has nothing to do
with prohibition, and is only preventing the sale of alcohol outside of
establishments, such as from trucks in the parking lots.
Jim Hildreth stated that it appears that the City Council is punishing
the businesses. He stated that businesses have limited floor space and
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INDEX
Ord 2003 -10
PA2003 -090
Alcoholic
Beverage
Outlet (ABO)
Amendment
(68)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
the City should support the opportunities for businesses to make money.
He stated that it's not in the City's best interest to pick on the residents
or businesses in the City. He stated that the visitors to the City that are
causing the problems should be the ones to carry the blunt.
Mr. Hildreth stated that the residents want to have a good time and the
businesses want to succeed, and only those causing the problems should
be reprimanded. He stated that a great deal of revenue is received by
the City for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests.
Dolores Otting confirmed with City Attorney Burnham that the
amendment would apply to all of the liquor stores in the City.
Ms. Otting stated that she didn't understand why such an amendment
would be needed or why alcoholic beverage outlets feel they should be
entitled to sell alcohol from their parking lots. She stated that she is in
support of anything that limits the amount of alcohol consumption by
minors.
Mike Doyle asked if the amendment is directed at offsite sale or storage
of alcohol. City Attorney Burnham stated that it prohibits the storage
or sale of alcohol outside the exterior perimeter of the structure. Alcohol
storage and sale is permitted within the establishment. He added that
the amendment only applies to the 4th of July and the two hours
following.
Hearing no further testimony, Mayor Bromberg closed the public
hearing.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway to adopt Ordinance
No. 2003 -10.
Council Member Proctor reiterated that the problem has been with
semi - trucks parking and storing alcohol in the parking lots. Alcohol
sales can still occur within the establishment. He stated that this will
primarily affect visitors to the area who don't arrive until the 4th of
July.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
O. CONTINUED BUSINESS
22. APPOINTMENTS BY THE CITY COUNCIL TO
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY AFFAIRS CITIZENS ADVISORY
COMMITTEE (EQAC) AND THE AVIATION COMMITTEE.
Council Member Webb stated that he is waiting to talk with a potential
appointee who is currently out of town.
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EQAC /Aviation
Committee
Appointments
(24)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
May 27, 2003
With the absence of Council Member Adams, Mayor Bromberg stated
that the item would be continued to the City Council meeting of June 10,
2003.
23. CITY HALL FACILITIES SCHEMATIC DESIGN - APPROVAL OF
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH GRIFFIN
HOLDINGS, INCORPORATED (contd. from Study Session of
4/08/03).
Public Works Director Badum reported that the item was addressed at
the Study Session on April 8, 2003. The direction was to provide more
information regarding economics, potential revenue opportunities and
potential increases in productivity, and that staff is recommending that
an agreement for the schematic design of the City Hall facilities be
approved.
Roger Torriero stated that he is a principal of Griffin Structures, the
program managers for the City Hall, parking structure and fire station
projects. Using a PowerPoint presentation, Mr. Torriero displayed a list
of the specific questions asked by the City Council at the meeting of
April 8, 2003, and stated that his presentation would cover these areas.
In regard to a question about the expected operational savings from new
facilities, he stated that there would be cost savings resulting from
energy efficiencies and reduced maintenance costs. Mr. Torriero noted
that a comprehensive and detailed analysis of the issues he would be
discussing is on file in the City Clerk's office. Continuing with the
presentation, Mr. Torriero stated that a new building is estimated to
save a minimum of 17% in energy and operating costs over the first five
years, and $3,750,000 over a 40 -year building life. Maintenance costs
would be reduced from the current $4 per square foot per year to $1.25,
or a savings of $3.7 million over a 40 -year building life.
Mr. Torriero stated that the current buildings and the layout of the
buildings create inefficiencies and productivity losses. It is estimated
that productivity could be improved by approximately 15 %, or an
effective value of $2 million annually. He stated that another
immediate benefit of a new facility design is the revenue potential from
the proposed parking structure, which is estimated to be $300,000 in the
first year for off -hour and weekend uses. He stated that public visitors
will also be affected by a new design and noted that actual counts by
staff shows that there are approximately 2,500 public visits per week to
City Hall, which is projected to be over 130,000 visits per year.
Mr. Torriero stated that three alternative concepts were presented at
the April 8, 2003, meeting, and a suggestion was made to consider a lot
line adjustment with the adjacent property owner. Mr. Torriero
displayed an aerial photo of the existing site and a diagrammatical
layout of the recommended alternative using the existing site
configuration. He displayed a fourth concept, which showed the impact
on the layout if a proposed land swap with the adjacent property owner
were successful. He also displayed two alternative site plans, assuming
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Mr. Torriero stated that it is recommended that the City Council
advance the planning and design, through the schematic design phase
only, of the overall project. This would provide the detailed information
needed to make an educated decision on whether to move forward with
the construction of a new City Hall. He stated that it is also
recommended that the City Council authorize staff to engage the
adjacent property owner in non - binding discussions regarding a land
swap and direct the project team to schedule a series of community
workshops to solicit input regarding the planning and design of the
project. Mr. Torriero stated that the final recommendation is to direct
staff and the project team to present the final schematic design for the
overall project and related schematic cost estimates to the City Council
before the end of January 2004.
Council Member Heffernan stated that the City as a whole still hasn't
been looked at. Other locations haven't been considered to determine if
City Hall could be in a better location. He added that there is also the
consideration of replacing the existing buildings while having to do
business at the same time. Council Member Heffernan understood from
the last meeting that Griffin Structures wasn't directed to look at other
sites, but it might have been more prudent to do so. Mr. Torriero noted
that much of the information that has been developed such as the needs
assessment, the programming and cost estimates were not site specific
and could be applied elsewhere.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway requested that Mr. Torriero discuss the
placement of city facilities in areas of need. Mr. Torriero stated that
West Hollywood provides an example, where a conscientious decision
was made to place the City Hall at the far end of the City, away from a
possibly more popular location. He stated that it was done to stabilize
an area from further decline and ended up being very successful.
Council Member Heffernan stated that if the replacement of the existing
City Hall is a redevelopment project, then it should be called that and
listed as a factor. City Manager Bludau stated that when he began his
discussions with Mr. Torriero, he felt that the first question to answer
was whether or not a new City Hall was needed. He felt that if location
were a part of that discussion, it would be more difficult to answer.
Mayor Bromberg stated that he felt there was a consensus to keep City
Hall in its current location since this is where the City began, but that a
motion can be made to have other locations explored. In regard to the
consideration of a new City Hall, Mayor Bromberg stated that the
current facility is archaic, is busting at the seams and should be
replaced. He added that the Fire Station is not safe and should also be
replaced. Mayor Bromberg stated that Newport Beach is the most
affluent city in Orange County, yet has the rattiest City Hall. He didn't
feel that people coming to City Hall should have to pay for parking,
however. He stated that a new City Hall will create efficiencies for the
employees and will result in better service to the citizens.
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Council Member Nichols agreed with the land swap and the squaring off
of the property. He stated that working with the adjacent property
owners might be useful and could make the project a better one.
Mr. Torriero stated that the entire area could be reconsidered and that a
town square environment might be possible. He stated that it would be
wise to explore an integration of the sites, which is what the next phase
of the project would do.
Council Member Proctor stated that the issue of needing more space at
City Hall is not a new one. He asked if another site would be less
expensive. Mr. Torriero stated that the only differential in cost would be
the temporary facilities that would be used during demolition and
construction. He stated that another site could create unknown costs,
such as acquisition and geotechnical subsurface soil conditions.
Council Member Heffernan asked if all tests had been done on the
current site. Mr. Torriero stated that Phase I yielded no known or
hazardous materials and the proposed project would be two stories, like
the current facilities. Council Member Heffernan stated that it has been
determined that the current facilities are seismically deficient. He
asked how this would be countered with new facilities. Mr. Torriero
stated that it is countered by means and methods of construction and
assemblage. He stated that newer seismic codes deal with strength of
materials, and methods of joinery and assembly.
Council Member Nichols noted that the area houses a primary fault line.
Mr. Torriero stated that the proximity to the fault line anywhere within
the City would not change greatly. He added that the fire station should
function as an essential facility and survive a seismic event, and that all
of the existing buildings at the City Hall site are seismically deficient.
Council Member Webb agreed that there isn't enough room at City Hall,
but he didn't know if it was necessary to tear everything down and start
over again. He stated that the staff comments that were included in the
report expressed a need for more space, a need to group the departments
together, a need for more conference space and a desire not to be in one
open floor plan with cubicles. Council Member Webb stated that he
likes old buildings and the opportunity to walk outside, such as the
current layout provides, and has learned that the seismic problems may
not be as great as have been described. He stated that the City might be
able to get by with reconstructing only some of the buildings. He
specifically suggested that Building D be replaced, a land swap be
worked on to make room for a new parking structure, and a remodeling
of the utilities in Building B be done. He stated that he didn't feel
comfortable with an entirely new City Hall facility.
City Manager Bludau agreed that the City could get by with remodeling
but that at some point, a difficult decision is going to have to be made
about replacing all of the buildings. He stated that it shouldn't be done
just to improve efficiency, although with 130,000 people visiting the
complex per year that aren't City employees, improving efficiency in
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service to the public is important. He stated that providing safe,
efficient buildings warrants the project being looked at further.
Council Member Nichols stated that a joint use high -rise parking
structure should be pursued with the adjacent property owners. He
stated that if this could be negotiated, it would make the site more
valuable to develop as a proper City Hall. He suggested that this be
done first, and that it could act as a stimulus for the area and solve the
existing parking shortage problem. Mr. Torriero stated that alternate
site plans were looked at in the original presentation, but the other
scenarios didn't improve efficiency or replace the old buildings. He
stated that there is not enough space to build a new parking structure
without removing some of the existing buildings, and that it needs to be
done as part of a comprehensive plan.
Jim Hildreth stated that moving City Hall to another location, such as
"Fascist Island ", might work, but that the public would rather have City
Hall remain where it is. He stated that a nearby church already uses
City Hall parking spaces for parking on Sundays, and that City Hall is
in a community location and viable for parking. He stated that no one is
going to want to pay for parking, however. He stated that surveys have
indicated that aboveground utilities are safer than underground utilities
in an earthquake, so the aboveground City Hall must be safer. He
stated that there is a fault line, but that there is a fault in City Hall too.
He stated that the few trees that would be sacrificed for the new
development could cause an uprising, and suggested that the parking
structure be angled or incorporated with the fire station. Mr. Hildreth
stated that there are different ways to go about creating a solution, but
feels that City Hall should remain where it is since it is a historical
landmark.
John Dobrott commended the City Council for considering a new City
Hall. He stated that the issues that have been discussed are items that
need to be considered and he appreciates the City Council tackling the
problems. He stated that it shows that the City's business is being
conducted as a business and efficiencies are being considered, as is done
in the private sector.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway to 1) receive and file report
titled, "Comparisons of Continued Occupancy of Existing City Hall vs.
Effective Costs of Occupancy in a Replacement City Hall "; 2) approve a
Professional Services Agreement with Griffin Holdings Incorporated, for
the not to exceed price of $578,185 and authorize the Mayor and the
City Clerk to execute the Agreement; 3) approve a budget amendment
(BA -072) appropriating $253,185 from the balance of the General Fund
Reserve for Capital Improvement to Account No. 7011- C2910545; 4)
authorize staff to engage discussions with the adjacent property owner
regarding a lot -line adjustment; and 5) direct staff to schedule a series of
community workshops regarding the planning and design of the project.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway stated that City Hall is located in his district,
which has been in a decline for years. He also noted the comments by
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the City Manager about the number of people that are serviced per year.
Council Member Proctor agreed that it's time to deal with the issue and
improve service.
Mayor Bromberg agreed that the project is worthy of being looked at
further.
Council Member Heffernan stated that, after looking at the upcoming
budget, he can't support the motion. He stated that although efficiency
may be improved, it will most likely not result in a decrease in staffing
and that government shouldn't get bigger, it should get smaller,
particularly when looking at the State's budget deficit, an increase in
various expenditures and reductions in revenue. He stated that a new
City Hall shouldn't be built in such economic times and he doesn't agree
with the City taking on such an expenditure at this time.
Mayor Bromberg stated that it is responsible to do this at this time. He
stated that more space is needed and efficiency would be improved.
Council Member Nichols stated that he is ready to support a new
parking structure and new facilities if looked at incrementally, but
doesn't feel that $30 million shouldn't be spent on an entirely new
building at this time.
Mayor Bromberg pointed out that the motion is not approving the
expenditure of $30 million.
Council Member Nichols expressed his understanding of the motion, and
that it would further study and do the design for a new City Hall at the
existing site.
Mayor Bromberg stated that it is only to study if the City should proceed
further.
Council Member Nichols stated that he would prefer to proceed with the
parking structure, do the design and begin negotiations with the
adjacent property owner. He stated that this will make a big difference
on the usability of the site.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway reminded Council Member Nichols that such
a structure can't be designed and built without demolishing existing
buildings. He agreed that incremental would be great if it could be
done, but it can't. He stated that the town square idea is a good one and
the action before the City Council is to allow Mr. Torriero to begin the
negotiations and studies needed to achieve this. He stated that the
action is only for the schematic design and is appropriate, and that it
would be unfortunate not to move forward at this time.
Council Member Webb agreed that more space is needed, but expressed
his concern that public opinion might not end up supporting the
proposed alternative. He asked if the contract could be structured so
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that public input could be received prior to spending the $500,000, so
that a design concept could be looked at that is supported by the
community. Mr. Torriero stated that the process will be one of
participatory planning, and will involve the community and the vested
groups from the beginning. He stated that an opportunities and
constraints analysis will be conducted, which will help to present the
information and the facts and educate those who will be participating in
the process. He stated that there isn't a need to amend the contract,
since this is the process that would already be followed. He pointed out
that the contract represents approximately 1.5% of the cost of the
overall project. He stated that the community needs to be educated and
involved in the process, and that the process will provide the City
Council with the information needed to make a decision.
Council Member Webb stated that he is still concerned that an entirely
new City Hall is the only option being studied. City Manager Bludau
stated that of the five recommended actions, the first, fourth and fifth
recommendations appear to be supported by all of the council members.
He stated that the third recommendation approves a budget amendment
using money that is in a reserve account for public facilities. He stated
that the second recommendation approves a contract and suggested that
it could be structured to insure that the fourth and fifth
recommendations are conducted first, with City Council approval
needed prior to moving forward further.
Mayor Bromberg stated that it should be determined if Mr. Torriero is
agreeable to such a suggestion.
Substitute motion by Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway to continue the
item to the City Council meeting of June 10, 2003.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway stated that Mr. Torriero should be allowed to
quantify the impact of the suggestion. He added that it will certainly be
proven that the community supports a new City Hall.
Council Member Heffernan stated that he doesn't feel that the citizens
in his district would support a new City Hall, or that they visit City Hall
at the rate indicated earlier. He added that he doesn't feel that the
citizens support government getting bigger or spending $30 million with
the current economy.
Dolores Otting agreed with the comments of Council Members
Heffernan and Webb. She stated that she doesn't believe a new building
will be more efficient, unless a Starbucks is placed in City Hall. She
expressed her support for the existing buildings, and their charm and
quaintness. She agreed that parking is lacking, but doesn't feel that
there is support in the community for a new facility.
Brain Clarkson asked if proposals from other developers were
considered.
Mayor Pro Tem Ridgeway stated that a bid process was followed for
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determining the needs assessment and schematic designs for City Hall,
that five companies competed, and the lowest and most responsive bid
was Griffin Structures.
The substitute motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
24. COUNCILMANIC RE- DISTRICTING.
Mayor Bromberg stated that the Councilmanic Re- districting Committee
is comprised of himself and Council Members Heffernan and Webb.
Planning Director Temple stated that the City Charter requires that the
City Council look at district alignment on a periodic basis, and that the
districts be close to equal in population and geographically contiguous to
the extent possible. Planning Director Temple stated that a re-
districting plan was adopted in 2002 when the Newport Coast and
Newport Ridge area was annexed. It placed the entire area in District 7.
She stated that prior to the annexation, the approximate average size of
the districts was 10,000 people. With the Newport Coast and Newport
Ridge annexation, the future annexations of East Santa Ana Heights,
Bay Knolls and the Emerson Tract, and the potential future annexation
of West Santa Ana Heights and Costa Mesa Area 7, the approximate
average population per district is 11,700 people.
Planning Director Temple displayed the committee recommendation and
pointed out some of the changes to the district lines. She stated that
District 1 expands to the west, District 2 expands across Newport
Boulevard, District 3 encompasses the west side of Newport Bay,
District 4 includes the head of Upper Newport Bay and the area to the
east, District 5 expands into the Irvine Terrace area, District 6 would
include Newport Coast and District 7 would include Newport Ridge.
She stated that this keeps the Harbor View area in District 7 and the
older part of Corona del Mar in District 6. Planning Director Temple
also displayed the alternative recommendation, which keeps all of
Newport Coast and Newport Ridge in District 7, and expands District 6
to the north.
Mayor Bromberg noted that Balboa Island remains in District 5.
Council Member Proctor commended the committee and their
recommendation.
Council Member Nichols suggested a minor deviation in the alignment
that would place the Buck Gully area in the same district. Planning
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Director 'Temple stated that turther adjustments would need to be made
to maintain population equity.
Mayor Bromberg confirmed with Planning Director Temple that Bonita
Canyon Sports Park is in District 7.
Council Member Webb confirmed with Planning Director Temple that
all of the senior housing in the area of Poppy Drive is within District 6.
Al Willinger stated that the Newport Coast Committee of 2000 spent
over three years in negotiations, which resulted in Newport Coast being
in one district and the possibility that it could change in the future
based on population needs. He also noted that Newport Coast includes
Newport Ridge, and the Newport Coast Advisory Committee (NCAC)
recently voted in support of maintaining the entire area in one district.
He stated that it is an essential ingredient to the development of the
community and requested that it be considered by the City Council.
Mayor Bromberg stated that realigning the districts will only change the
political district lines and who the council representative is. The
community will not lose its designation or community input, and the
homeowner associations and zip codes will not change. He stated that
the community might end up with two council members, which could be
looked at as a positive thing. He stated that the committee was
sensitive to community issues and concerns.
Motion by Council Member Webb to adopt the Councilmanic
districts as recommended by the Council subcommittee, introduce
Ordinance No. 2003 -11 changing and redefining the boundaries of
Councilmanic districts and pass to second reading on June 10, 2003.
Mayor Pro Tern Ridgeway stated that the agreement with the Newport
Coast and Newport Ridge area was not to split the area into more than
one district until after the first election cycle. He stated that the area is
still one community, but with two council representatives.
Council Member Heffernan noted that there is a sense of community in
the area and a lack of integration with the rest of the City, primarily
due to the geographical separation. He added that there are several
issues in the area, things are happening and they are entitled to a voice
on the City Council. He stated that they are ably represented by the
NCAC and are a part of the City, and redistricting won't change those
factors. He stated that the committee recommendation balances the
City and the affected neighborhoods.
Council Member Nichols suggested that Council Member Heffernan
maintain his activity on the NCAC and with the area. He acknowledged
his knowledge of the area and all of the work that he has done.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Proctor, Ridgeway, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
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Bromberg
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Adams
Q. MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION — None.
Mayor Bromberg requested that a future agenda item provide an update on the
feasibility of senior housing at Newport Village. Additionally, he requested that
a future agenda item address City Council call -ups of Planning Commission
items and specifically, the requirement that more than one Council Member
may need to support the call -up.
R. ADJOURNMENT at 10:10 p.m. in memory of Beverly Salata.
txxxxxx *x:r *t:r * * * * **
The agenda for the Regular Meeting was posted on May 21, 2003, at 3:15 p.m.
on the City Hall Bulletin Board located outside of the City of Newport Beach
Administration Building.
City Clerk
Recording Secretary
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