HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/14/2004 - Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting
September 14, 2004 - 7:00 p.m.
— 4:30 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION — 5:30 p.m.
A. RECESSED AND RECONVENED AT 7:00 P.M. FOR REGULAR MEETING
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Ridgeway
Absent: District 4 (vacant)
C. CLOSED SESSION REPORT - Mayor Ridgeway announced that the City
Council approved a traffic cooperation agreement with the Scholle Corporation.
The Scholle Corporation has agreed to contribute an amount not to exceed
$396,000 to the City of Newport Beach's traffic and infrastructure fund. The
agreement was reached to settle City of Newport Beach's legal challenges to the
environmental document used to approve the proposed development of a 486,500
square foot commercial/retail project in the City of Irvine. The project is located
on Jamboree and Fairchild Roads within 1,000 feet of Newport Beach's city
border. The agreement, once finalized, will be available in the City Clerk's office.
D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — Council Member Rosansky
E. INVOCATION — None
F. PRESENTATIONS
Presentation by Aaron Israel, Chairman of the Youth Council, on the
State of the City's Youth. Mr. Israel stated that the past year has brought
challenges to the young people who reside in Newport Beach and they have
confronted these challenges not as obstacles, but as opportunities. He noted that
an overwhelmingly high percentage of the high school students in Newport
Beach have plans to attend four -year universities. He stated that the students in
Newport Beach understand the value of hard work and a bright future and for
this reason, they will continue to surpass limits of expectation. He listed some of
the programs and activities that students are participating in. In closing, Mr.
Israel thanked the City Council for their support of the Youth Council.
Mayor Ridgeway complimented Mr. Israel on his report and stated that it has
been a pleasure to work with him.
G. REORGANIZATION
1. ELECTION OF MAYOR PRO TEM DUE TO RESIGNATION OF
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City Council Minutes
September 14, 2004
INDEX
MAYOR PRO TEM ADAMS EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2004.
Mayor Ridgeway placed all members of the City Council on an equal
basis to nominate and elect. He opened the nominations for Mayor Pro
Tem.
Council Member Webb nominated Council Member Bromberg.
Council Member Nichols asked if it would be better, to wait to elect the
Mayor Pro Tem until after the appointment of the new District 4 council
member is made.
Council Member Rosansky noted that there is no guarantee that the City
Council will successfully complete an appointment for the vacant District
4 seat, and that it could go to a special election.
Council Member Nichols stated that he would only suggest that the
election of the Mayor Pro Tem be postponed until the special meeting to
be held on September 21, 2004.
City Clerk Harkless stated that the Charter is not specific on timing and
doesn't address Mayor Pro Tem appointments caused by resignations.
Acting City Attorney Clauson added that there is no prohibition on the
City Council taking action at the current meeting.
Council Member Rosansky confirmed that the Mayor Pro Tem serves at
the City Council's pleasure and that a new one can be appointed if the
City Council decides to do so.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that the appointment is for the duration of the
existing appointment, which is until the first meeting in December of
2004. Motion by Mayor Ridgeway to close nominations.
Council Member Bromberg was elected as Mayor Pro Tem by the
following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Ridgeway, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
H. NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC
I. CITY COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH COUNCIL
MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR
DISCUSSION, ACTION OR REPORT (NON- DISCUSSION ITEM) — None
J. CONSENT CALENDAR
READING OF MINUTES/ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
2. MINUTES OF THE ADJOURNED REGULAR AND REGULAR
MEETING OF AUGUST 24, 2004. Waive reading of subject minutes,
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September 14, 2004
approve as written and order filed.
3. READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS. Waive reading
in full of all ordinances and resolutions under consideration, and direct
City Clerk to read by title only.
ORDINANCES FOR INTRODUCTION
INDEX
4. REVISION OF PARKING METER ZONE IN MARINERS VILLAGE. 1 (100 -2004)
Introduce Ordinance No. 2004 -20 to amend Parking Meter Zone 2 in
Municipal Code Section 12.44.020 to add the "Northerly side of Avon
Street from Riverside Avenue to 150 feet westerly "; and to amend Section
12.44.040 to establish fees for parking meters on Avon Street.
5. RESOLUTION OF INTENTION AND ORDINANCE TO APPROVE
C -563
AN AMENDMENT TO PERS CONTRACT TO PROVIDE PRE-
Public
RETIREMENT OPTIONAL SETTLEMENT DEATH BENEFIT TO
Employees
MISCELLANEOUS EMPLOYEES. 1) Adopt Resolution No. 2004 -81 a
Retirement
Resolution of Intention to approve an amendment to the contract
System
between the Board of Administration, California Public Employees'
(PERS) Contract
Retirement System and the City Council of the City of Newport Beach;
(38/100 -2004)
and 2) introduce Ordinance No. 2004 -21 authorizing an amendment to
the contract between the City Council of the City of Newport Beach and
the Board of Administration of the California Public Employees'
Retirement System and pass to second reading on October 12, 2004.
ORDINANCES FOR ADOPTION
6. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Heffernan.
7. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Nichols.
RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION
8. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH NO PARKING
(100 -2004)
RESTRICTIONS FOR STREET SWEEPING. Adopt Resolution
No. 2004 -82 establishing NO PARKING restrictions for street sweeping
along segments of Superior Avenue, 15th Street, Rutland Road, and
Bedford Lane; and rescind Resolution No. 2004 -04.
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
9. WEST NEWPORT / MARINE AVENUE STREETLIGHT
C -3697
REPLACEMENT /STREETSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS — AWARD OF
West Newport/
CONTRACT (C- 3697). 1) Determine that the project is exempt from
Marine Avenue
environmental review pursuant to Section 15302 of the California
Streetlight
Environmental Quality Act Implementing Guidelines; 2) approve the
Replacement/
plans and specifications; 3) award C -3697 to Moore Electrical Contracting
Streetscape
for the total bid price of $466,582.20 and authorize the Mayor and the
Improvements
City Clerk to execute the contract; 4) establish an amount of $46,000 to
(38/100 -2004)
cover the cost of unforeseen work; and 5) approve a budget amendment
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(05BA -011) transferring $12,649.20 from Account No. 7295- C5100570 to
Account No. 7295- C5300035 and appropriating $99,593 from
Unappropriated General Fund, 010 -3605, to Account No. 7013- C5300035,
Streetlight Replacement Program, and $31,577.84 from Unappropriated
General Fund, 010 -3605, to Account No. 7014- C5100717, Marine Avenue
Streetscape Improvements.
10. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH
ASSOCIATION OF NEWPORT BEACH OCEAN LIFEGUARDS
AND BUDGET AMENDMENT TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR NEW
EQUIPMENT. 1) Approve the MOU; 2) approve a budget amendment
(05BA -012) transferring funds in the following amounts from the
unappropriated General Fund Reserve: a) $20,000 to 2360 -7072 ANBOL
Sunglasses; b) $27,780 to 2360 -8200 Special Department Supplies; and c)
$15,190 to 2360 -8204 Uniforms.
11. NEWPORT ISLAND CIRCULATION UNIT EVALUATION —
APPROVAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
EVEREST INTERNATIONAL CONSULTANTS, INC. Approve a
Professional Services Agreement with Everest International Consultants,
Inc. (EIC) of Long Beach for analyzing circulation requirements for the
Newport Island Channels at a contract price of $18,500 and authorize the
Mayor and City Clerk to execute the agreement.
MISCELLANEOUS ACTIONS
12. RECOMMENDATION FROM ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE TO FILL EDC VACANCY. Fill current EDC vacancy by
appointing Mr. Jim Donnell as "Fashion Island" representative.
13. BUDGET AMENDMENT FOR THE PURCHASE OF
REPLACEMENT VEHICLE. Authorize the purchase of a vehicle for an
estimated cost of $19,000; and approve a budget amendment (05BA -013)
transferring $19,000 from unappropriated Internal Service Fund reserves
to the General Services Department Account 6120 -9100 to fund the cost
to purchase this unit.
14. BUDGET AMENDMENT TO ACCEPT A CHECK FROM
PROLITERACY, NEWPORTIMESA AND TRANSFER FUNDS TO
SALARY AND BENEFITS ACCOUNTS FOR LITERACY
SERVICES. Approve a budget amendment (05BA -010) in the amount of
$10,000 in 4010 -5901, Private Donations/Contributions, and increasing
salary and benefit expenditure estimates by $10,000 in Division 4060,
Literacy.
15. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Nichols.
16. APPOINTMENTS TO FILL VACANT POSITIONS ON VARIOUS
COMMITTEES CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF MAYOR
PRO TEM ADAMS. Confirm the appointment of Council Member
Bromberg as the Chair for the Ad Hoc General Plan Update Committee;
and Council Member Webb as the representative and Council Member
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C -2058
MOU
Association of
Newport Beach
Ocean
Lifeguards
(38/100 -2004)
C -3730
Newport Island
Circulation Unit
Evaluation
(38/100 -2004)
(100 -2004)
1 (100 -2004)
(100 -2004)
1(100 -2004)
(100 -2004)
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City Council Minutes
September 14, 2004
INDEX
Heffernan as the alternate to the San Joaquin Hills Transportation
Corridor Joint Powers Agency Board of Directors.
City Clerk Harkless announced that, in addition to the above action,
Mayor Ridgeway named Council Member Heffernan as the ex officio
member of the Corona del Mar Traffic Mitigation Committee.
17. ORDER OF CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS
(100 -2004)
ALONG GRANT STREET AND HIGHLAND STREET FRONTAGES
- 7000 AND 7012 WEST COAST HIGHWAY. 1) Direct staff to utilize
the procedures set forth in The Improvement Act of 1911, Chapter 27,
Construction of Sidewalks and Curbs, of the California Streets and
Highways Code, Construction of Sidewalks and Curbs, to cause the
construction of public frontage improvements to be made by Owners;
2) order the installation of frontage improvements on Grant and
Highland Streets, adjacent to 7000 and 7012 West Coast Highway; 3) set
October 12, 2004 as the date of the public hearing; and 4) direct the
Superintendent of Streets to Notice the Owners of the public hearing and
the order of construction.
18. 2006 CITY CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION - LOGO SELECTION.
(100 -2004)
Approve the recommendations of the Centennial Committee regarding
the selection of a corporate logo for the Centennial and a logo for
merchandising opportunities.
19. TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY PERMIT NO. 2003 -003
(100 -2004)
(PA2003 -255) (contd. from 5/11/04, 618104, 7/13104 & 7127104).
Continue to 10/12/04.
S24. AMENDED AND RESTATED LEASE BY AND BETWEEN THE
C -3248
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH AND THE BALBOA PERFORMING
Balboa
ARTS THEATER FOUNDATION - BALBOA THEATER - 707 EAST
Performing Arts
BALBOA BOULEVARD. Approve and authorize the Mayor and City
Theater
Clerk to execute the Amended and Restated Lease.
(38/100 -2004)
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg to approve the Consent Calendar,
except for those items removed (6, 7 and 15).
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
K. PUBLIC HEARINGS
20. AWARD OF NON - EXCLUSIVE SOLID WASTE COLLECTION
Solid Waste
FRANCHISE TO DIRECT DISPOSAL, INC.
Franchise
(42/100 -2004)
City Manager Bludau stated that the City has 23 such existing non-
exclusive solid waste franchises.
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Mayor Ridgeway opened the public hearing.
Hearing no testimony, Mayor Ridgeway closed the public hearing.
Motion by Council Member Webb to adopt Ordinance No. 2004 -17
granting a Non - exclusive Solid Waste Franchise to Direct Disposal, Inc.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
L. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Stuart McKenzie referred to Measure L and suggested that people go to
the area and take a look at the property. He stated that it's a nice place
and if a hotel is put in, the people will lose it. Secondly, Mr. McKenzie
thanked the City for the work done in Balboa Village.
Dan Fitzpatrick expressed his dissatisfaction with the repaving job in
Corona del Mar. He specifically stated that the intersection at
Marguerite and 5th was turned to dust on August 27, 2004, and remains
so today. He stated that the intersection shouldn't have been torn up so
early or should have been closed like some of the other intersections in
the area. He stated that the dust is causing damage to residents'
property and that the City must not have any control over the contractor.
He presented photos showing the dust on his possessions.
Public Works Director Badum stated that Marguerite and 5th is scheduled
to be paved on September 15, 2004, and that, unfortunately, a total
retrofit had to be done. He noted that the contractor is being charged
$500 per day for each day that they're behind schedule, and that the City
is doing everything possible. Residents are also being extended an offer
to have any necessary cleaning done and paid for by the contractor.
Robert Walchli agreed with the comments of the previous speaker and
stated that Waterfront also needs to be repaved. Additionally, he noted
that it appears that an undergrounding of utilities was recently done on
Bayside and that the road was not properly fixed. Mr. Walchli stated
that AQMD Rule 402 addresses nuisance dust, but that it is not being
enforced and there continues to be dust problems throughout the City.
He requested that the City take action.
Council Member Webb noted that he already reported the two trench
patches on Bayside to the Public Works Director.
Council Member Nichols stated that three to four streets have been paved
in Corona del Mar and thought more were going to be done, but he did
agree that 5th is taking longer than he had hoped. He also felt that too
big of an area is being worked on, which is impeding access by residents
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September 14, 2004
to their homes.
INDEX
Dolores Otting, as the EQAC membership chairperson, announced that
several people have resigned from EQAC. She encouraged those that
want to participate in the community to fill out an application. Secondly,
Ms. Otting stated than Item No. 1 of the current meeting agenda should
have been open to the public for comments. Thirdly, she asked if it was
American Asphalt that was doing the work in Corona del Mar, and noted
that they did substandard work on San Miguel and Jamboree also. She
expressed her understanding that contracts are awarded to the lowest
bidder, but stated that the City needs to look at the specifications.
Dick Souka agreed with the comments of Mr. Fitzpatrick and stated that
they did talk with Public Works and the situation did improve. He stated
that something should be learned from the fiasco with the paving of the
streets in Corona del Mar. He understood that the lowest bidder has to
be used, but felt that something could be done to mitigate the dust and
inconvenience. He noted that the use of water really helped with the
dust, but that it needed to be done more often. Mr. Souka couldn't
understand why the pavement was taken out at Marguerite and 5th so
early.
Jim Hildreth displayed a pair of women's underwear that was thrown
into his car and hoped that the police would find out who it belonged to.
Secondly, he displayed a piece of the Balboa Island bridge and noted that
some glue might be needed. Thirdly, Mr. Hildreth displayed a newspaper
article that included a picture of a two -story structure, which he stated is
actually a three -story structure and that he thought there was a
moratorium on three -story structures in the City. Lastly, Mr. Hildreth
stated that the structures in the Grand Canal are access structures and
that there are no piers in the Grand Canal.
William Scott stated that a property located in the 2200 block of Newport
Boulevard was sold and that the new landlord has elected to evict the
bait boat from that site. He stated that there is no place for the bait boat
to go and noted that it supplies the live bait for Newport Harbor. He
requested that the City Council become involved.
Steven Greshock stated that he has been supplying all of the live bait for
Newport Beach for 26 years and that during that time, he has always
been able to find a place or a slip for his boat, until now. He stated that
he has a mooring for the bait barge, but no place to tie up. He listed some
possible options and asked the City Council to agendize the item or help
him in some way, so that he can stay in the harbor.
Larry Porter stated that there was an oversight in the EIR concerning
the water supply in relationship to the Marinapark hotel. He explained
that in January of 2004, the Orange County Water District voted to
reduce the water available to its members, and that the Colorado River is
low and the State water project is less reliable. Mr. Porter stated that the
hotel project will take more water than the existing use of the trailers or
if the property were converted to a park. He stated that this will
jeopardize the citizens right to their availability of water. Mr. Porter
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September 14, 2004
stated that the citizens
INDEX
vote "no" on Measure L.
Mayor Ridgeway requested that the City Manager work with the Harbor
Resources Division on the issue raised regarding the bait boat, and try to
find a year -round mooring for a bait barge.
M. ORAL REPORTS FROM CITY COUNCIL ON COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
Status report - Ad Hoc General Plan Update Committee (GPUC). No
report.
Status report - Local Coastal Program (LCP) Certification Committee.
In response to a couple of articles in the Doily Pilot, Mayor Ridgeway stated that
there were opportunities for everybody to participate in the LCP process. He
listed the public meetings there were held and the notices that were sent.
Status report - Newport Coast Advisory Committee (NCAC). Council
Member Heffernan reported that the NCAC met on September 13, 2004. He
stated that the items discussed included a review of how the newly - completed
Newport Coast Elementary School loop road worked during the first week of
school and, in general, it was felt that it helped the situation. It was decided to
hold off on the diversion of construction traffic on Ridge Park Drive. The floor
plan for the proposed community center and the plantings on Newport Coast
Drive were also discussed, but neither was resolved. Lastly, Council Member
Heffernan reported that the assessment district relief was also discussed. He
stated that it's a complicated issue and that slow progress is being made.
Status report - Mariners Joint Use Library Ad Hoc Steering Committee.
No report.
Status report - Other Committee Activities. Council Member Webb reported
that the City Centennial 2006 Committee has begun planning for the centennial.
He noted that the Consent Calendar approval earlier in the current meeting
included an approval for two logos, one to be used on business cards and
letterhead and another to use on commemorative items (Item No. 18).
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg announced that the Aviation Committee will be
meeting on October 4, 2004, at 8:30 a.m. at the Friends Room at the Central
Library.
Council Member Rosansky announced that September 18, 2004, is Coastal Clean -
Up Day, and that a presentation would be held at the Muth Interpretive Center.
He stated that members of the Adopt -A -Beach program will receive recognition
plaques as a part of the ceremonies.
Mayor Ridgeway announced that he recently went to Washington, D.C. with
Supervisor Silva and several others to attempt to obtain money for the Upper
Newport Bay dredge. He explained that it's a $38 million project that was
approved by Congress in 2000, but they have yet to allocate the money. He
stated that the City has set aside $13.5 million, but the Federal government
hasn't put aside their $24.5 million. Mayor Ridgeway stated that if $5 million
can be obtained that it, combined with the City's $13.5 million, will allow the
project to begin in Spring of 2005. He further explained that the project will
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September 14, 2004
entail the removal of two million cubic yards of silt and has been mandated by
the Federal government.
N. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA AND ORAL STATUS REPORT
21. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA FOR SEPTEMBER 9, 2004.
Planning Director Temple stated that the agenda included five items, one
of which was the minutes. Of the remaining four, three were continued.
The one item that the Planning Commission did take action on was the
initiation of a code amendment to the Santa Ana Heights Specific Plan.
The item will return to the Planning Commission for a public hearing.
O. CONTINUED BUSINESS
22. ZONING AMENDMENT /GROUP LIVING USES (contd. from
8124/04).
Mayor Ridgeway announced that the proposed ordinance has been before
the City Council at two previous meetings. The only issue that the City
Council will be considering at the current meeting is the introduction of
the proposed ordinance. He stated that public comments should be
limited to the ordinance provisions only. Comments regarding any
individual operating group home, or the City's enforcement or lack of
enforcement of existing ordinances will not be considered. He noted that
there have already been opportunities for the public to comment on the
ordinance, and he requested that comments at the current meeting be
limited to the current amendments and that prior testimony not be
repeated.
Council Member Heffernan confirmed that the action at the current
meeting is the first reading and re- introduction of the proposed
ordinance. He asked if the whole ordinance is subject to discussion.
Acting City Attorney Clauson responded in the affirmative and stated
that it is just hoped that previous comments won't be repeated.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that it's the third time that there's been a first
reading of the proposed ordinance and there were few changes from the
previous first reading. He stated that minor modifications were made as
the result of a letter that was received from a national organization
representing the group homes threatening a lawsuit.
Jon Stearman, Narconon Southern California, stated that a couple of
items in the proposed ordinance still need to be looked at. He noted that
the proposed ordinance does not permit general care residential homes in
the Residential - Agricultural (R -A) districts. He asked that this be
reconsidered, since it is allowed in the City's current codes.
In response to Mayor Ridgeway's question, Assistant City Manager Wood
stated R -A districts exist in the Santa Ana Heights area. Acting City
Attorney Clauson added that the previous definition of group living uses
has been changed throughout the proposed ordinance. She stated that as
long as a group home is living together as a single housekeeping unit,
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(100 -2004)
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there isn't a prohibition on these types of facilities within the R -A
districts. In any situation, the Federal Exception Permit (FEP) would
apply if reasonable accommodation were needed. Acting City Attorney
Clauson stated that staff is comfortable with the proposed ordinance the
way it is drafted.
Mr. Stearman stated that another remaining issue is the addition of the
phrase "and prohibitions against assembly uses" in Section 11. He stated
that he couldn't find a definition in the proposed ordinance for
"assembly ". Acting City Attorney Clauson stated that the provision that
was added only applies to situations where an application has been made
for an FEP, and the group is not living together as a single housekeeping
unit but would like reasonable accommodation. She stated that the
definition of "assembly use" was not included because it would depend
upon what the application for the FEP was. It would also be a part of the
reasonable accommodation process to work with the applicant on the
request.
Mayor Ridgeway confirmed with the Acting City Attorney that it is then
a discretionary item. Mr. Stearman stated that if it is to be discretionary,
then it should apply to all types of conditional use permits. He stated
that otherwise, it is a violation of the Bill of Rights. Acting City Attorney
Clauson stated that it isn't discretionary in the same sense as a use
permit, and assembly uses are generally not allowed in residential
districts.
Robert Walchli asked why an investigation hasnt been done as to why
Narconon and the other rehabilitation facilities have chosen to operate
drug and alcohol rehabilitation facilities in the middle of a party, alcohol
and drug zone. Mr. Walchli questioned having a community of alcoholics
and drug addicts living within the existing community's midst, and stated
that group homes can destroy property values. He stated that the City
needs to lead the way by enacting legislation at the State and Federal
level to protect residents from the rehabilitation facilities. Lastly, Mr.
Walchli expressed his concern for a new law regarding granny flats and
how it might turn R -1 and R -1.5 zones into potential districts for group
homes.
Mayor Ridgeway clarified that someone in recovery is protected by
Federal law, as long as they are abstinent.
Tim Chapman followed up on Mr. Stearman's comments about the
prohibition against assembly uses. He stated that it's discriminatory
because it would be difficult to have even a six-bed home without some
type of assembly occurring. He suggested that it be removed.
Dr. Linda Orozco stated that it's been a year since she spoke to the City
Council to complain about the issues, problems and violations of zoning
and occupancy by Narconon in her neighborhood. She stated that the
problems continue. Dr. Orozco stated that Narconon's website indicates
that 88% of its clients are from out of state, yet California originally
allowed residences to be used as treatment centers to address local needs.
She stated that other cities have shown great leadership and enforce
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September 14, 2004
conditional use permits. She asked the City Council to look closely at the
proposed ordinance and to apply the laws fairly.
Frank McGeoy stated that there is still a great deal of misunderstanding
and clarified that recovery homes are for people who abstain from drugs
and alcohol. Additional, he noted that the out of state percentage of
people who use vacation rentals might be similar to that of Narconon's
clients, and that the City invites people from out of state. Mr. McGeoy
stated that the letter referred to earlier by Mayor Ridgeway should be
taken seriously and that several illegalities in the proposed ordinance are
presented.
Alan Paksed stated that he has been staying in Narconon for the past
seven months and feels that there is a vendetta from the neighborhood
towards Narconon. He stated that everything is clean at the facility and
it is very organized. He felt that the problems are a thing of the past and
that people are complaining about things that don't exist. Mr. Paksed
stated that the facility's location offers a spiritual place for people to
recover and that there should be more compassion.
Eric Cattel asked what the findings for approval are for FEP's. He
referred to Section 10 of the proposed ordinance and the phrase, "but are
not necessarily limited to" and stated that it seems a bit vague.
Additionally, he referred to Section 11 and stated that it would be
expected that the City would apply the same conditions of approval to use
and variance permits. He also felt that the addition of the prohibition
against assembly uses was vague.
Acting City Attorney Clauson stated that the sentence referred to in
Section 10 also includes the phrase, "to the extent authorized by law" and
explained that the listing of findings can be expanded upon depending on
the accommodation being requested.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that the City has done its due diligence.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg to re- introduce Ordinance
No. 2004 -16 amending the Zoning Code and pass to second reading on
September 28, 2004.
Council Member Nichols stated that he's not sure what's being
accomplished with the proposed ordinance and that the City is better off
with the current codes. He felt that it would be better to have the group
homes sign up with the State and use those codes for enforcement.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: Nichols
Abstain: None
Absent: None
P. CURRENT BUSINESS
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September 14, 2004
23. ANALYSIS OF POLICE OPERATIONS— JULY 4, 2004. [Taken out
of order].
Police Chief McDonell stated that the changes made by the City Council
in 2003 in terms of the Safety Enhancement Zone and related ordinances,
were positive for the City in 2003 and that this continued in 2004. He
noted that four officer tactical teams were assigned to nearly every street
in the Safety Enhancement Zone and early contact was initiated with the
people on the streets. Chief McDonell stated that there were fewer
incidences in 2004 than in 2003, but suggested that the Safety
Enhancement Zone area be expanded in 2005 due to the activity that
occurred outside the zone. He stated that staff will look at it and possibly
come back to the City Council with some recommendations for
modifications.
Chief McDonell stated that the use of portable lighting, portable
restrooms and trash receptacles all helped to bring order. He listed some
of the other minor changes that were made that were also positive. He
stated that arrests and citations were slightly higher in 2004 than 2003,
but still down from 2002. Chief McDonell stated that planning is already
underway for next year, and that there is still a concern for the potential
of severe consequences. He thanked the other departments that provided
assistance, which included General Services, Fire and Building. In
conclusion, he recommended that similar strategies be implemented in
2005.
Mayor Ridgeway confirmed that the Safety Enhancement Zone
encompasses 32 ^d to 56th Streets, and noted that there was a severe
incident on 25th Street this year. He agreed that expanding the Safety
Enhancement Zone should be considered.
Chief McDonell showed a ten - minute video of the activities from July 4,
2004. At the conclusion, he stated that it illustrates the tone of the day,
which includes a lot of people, a lot of alcohol, and a number of citations
and arrests. He noted that the overall tenor of the crowd was within
tolerance, however.
Council Member Heffernan noted that approximately $160,000 was spent
on July 4th this year, up from approximately $85,000 a few years ago. He
stated that it's a civic function, but serious crimes and the party
atmosphere still exist. Chief McDonell agreed that it is costing more, but
stated that the number of arrests have decreased nearly 30% from 2002
and the additional staffing has helped to maintain control. He
additionally noted that a phenomenon in West Newport is the high
number of rentals and a residential neighborhood with no commercial
zone. He explained that a commercial zone in the area would allow the
City to close an area or change its character. Council Member Heffernan
agreed and stated that it's a cost of doing business and provides a sense
of safety for the residents and participants. He complimented the Police
Department on doing a good job.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg also complimented the Police Department and
noted that the situation on the 4th of July has improved greatly in the last
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couple of years.
Robert Walchli stated that the City has made progress in containing the
"war zone', but that part of the funding is coming from the residents in
Corona del Mar. He suggested that a special assessment district be
considered to cover some of the costs. He also felt that shutting down the
area to nonresidents should be considered. Mr. Walchli additionally
noted that there was a lack of police presence in Corona del Mar on the
4th of July. He requested that additional staffing be funded in 2005 to
curtail any serious problems. He noted the current gang problem in the
area.
CONTINUED BUSINESS (continued)
525. PARAMETERS FOR CONDUCTING DISTRICT 4 COUNCIL
CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS AND THE SELECTION OF A NEW
COUNCIL MEMBER.
Mayor Ridgeway requested that the interviews be conducted at 6:30 p.m.
on September 21, 2004, instead of 6:00 p.m.
Council Member Rosansky noted that there are nine applicants, which
would mean that the interviews would take 4 '/z hours.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that not all of those interviewed will take the full
time allotted.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg agreed.
After a brief discussion, it was decided that 6:30 p.m. would be start time
for the meeting.
Council Member Rosansky referred to procedure "E" in the staff report
and stated that he disagrees with eliminating candidates who get one
vote. He provided several vote scenarios and stated that it wouldn't
make sense to eliminate candidates who get one vote.
Mayor Ridgeway agreed that possibly in the first round of votes, those
with one vote should not be eliminated.
Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg asked if it would be appropriate to modify the
procedures at the meeting of September 21, 2004, if the circumstances
warranted it. Acting City Attorney Clauson suggested that it would be
better not to change the voting procedure during the vote procedure. She
stated that Council Member Rosansky's suggestion might work to
eliminate those with zero votes and in the event that at least two
candidates do not get two or more votes, that those getting one vote
would be eliminated.
Council Member Rosansky stated that he would like to have the
flexibility of keeping the candidates that receive one vote in the first
rounds. He noted that the applicant pool is a quality pool and he expects
the votes to be split.
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In response to Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg's question, Acting City Attorney
Clauson stated that it would be appropriate to modify the voting
procedures at the meeting of September 21, 2004, if the voting is to be
continued to the meeting of September 28, 2004.
Motion by Council Member Rosansky to eliminate any applicants
receiving zero votes in any round of voting, to eliminate the remaining
applicants if two applicants receive five or more votes collectively and a
confirmation of the balance of the procedures, as outlined in the staff
report.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg confirmed that when interviews were
conducted in October 2003 for the vacancy in District 2, there was not a
procedure to eliminate.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he doesn't want to limit the pool, but that he
also foresees a split on the votes.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg agreed that four votes for any one applicant on
the first round would be unlikely, and that some elimination procedure
should be established.
Dolores Otting stated that the appointment process has already been
done before and that it worked. She asked if these new procedures would
be used in the future and become policy, or if the rules would be changed
for every appointment.
Council Member Nichols explained that an elimination procedure wasn't
needed in October 2003.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg added that these procedures are being
established for the interviews to be conducted on September 218t only.
Ms. Otting stated that she disagrees with using the appointment process
and would prefer that an election be conducted.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
Q. ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
6. REVISIONS TO APPEAL AND CALL FOR REVIEW
PROCEDURES - CODE AMENDMENT NO. 2004 -002 (PA2004 -028).
Council Member Heffernan stated that his main concern continues to be
that the majority of the council members that call up an item for review
can be the same majority that appoints the planning commissioners,
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lull]
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which could result in few call ups because of similar viewpoints. He
stated that its setting a dangerous precedent, particularly since the
Planning Commission doesn't have the same rule. He explained that one
commissioner can call up an item for review. Lastly, Council Member
Heffernan stated that call ups can often illuminate a policy, which can be
done more easily with the current policy.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that the Planning Commission
functions differently and shouldn't be included in the proposed ordinance.
Additionally, he noted that a simple majority vote is intended to ensure
that decisions are not subject to additional review unless there is
substantial concern or interest on the part of the City Council. Mayor
Pro Tem Bromberg stated that it's not fair to the applicants to call up
items without substantial concern.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Brombere to adopt Ordinance No. 2004 -18
approving Code Amendment No. 2004 -002.
Council Member Nichols stated that mistakes have been made. He noted
the 40 houses that were approved that were out of zoning, and stated
that such issues should be discussed publicly. Council Member Nichols
expressed his support for keeping a single member call up and didn't feel
that it had been overused. Specifically, he stated that his call ups have
been justified.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg agreed, but that if a majority of the City
Council doesn't feel that a matter is worthwhile to call up, he stated that
venting is all that occurs.
Council Member Nichols asked how he could spontaneously get his point
across at a City Council meeting to get a majority opinion.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that it could be done during City
Council announcements or when the Planning Commission report is
given. He didn't know if a Council policy should be established to outline
the procedure.
Council Member Nichols stated that, for example, he had some questions
on the Getz houses, but that the items weren't on the Planning
Commission agenda. He asked how he would bring those matters up.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that the Getz issue was handled through the City
Manager and legal counsel. City Manager Bludau added that it was also
an agendized item.
Council Member Nichols stated that specific houses were not a part of the
item. City Manager Bludau stated that the policy as to what would be
allowed and what wouldn't was the issue before the City Council.
Council Member Nichols stated that some of the houses have never been
brought back for a vote, and that they do not meet code.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that the policy included some exceptions. He
stated that it was a separate legal issue and beyond the jurisdiction of a
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call up.
Council Member Heffernan stated that in this instance, the City Manager
should be contacted to request that the matter be agendized. Acting City
Attorney Clauson agreed and stated that it would be different than the
call up to review a decision by a lower body. She stated that the call up
procedure should not be used for general problems with the zoning code
or how it's applied. She stated that during the Planning Commission
report would probably be the most appropriate time to call up an item for
review, and during Council announcements might be the most
appropriate time to agendize general issues.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that a mechanism needs to be developed
for calling up items for review. Assistant City Manager Wood stated that
staff will develop a mechanism for City Council consideration. City Clerk
Harkless added that the agenda does include call ups, but that it will
need to be expanded to include modification and Planning Director
decisions.
Dolores Otting stated that there's nothing wrong with the current
procedure. She noted that the proposed procedure is flawed in that it
would require discussion by the City Council prior to a vote to call up an
item for review. She stated that this can't be done because the matter
wouldn't have been agendized.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: Heffernan
Abstain: None
Absent: None
SMOKING ON PIERS AND BEACHES.
Council Member Nichols stated that he has received and reviewed a good
deal of literature, and that the statistical significance of the effect of
secondhand smoke on the basis of a closed room is barely provable.
Outside, there is no evidence that this would be true and certainly not in
an outside gathering where the individual is not a party to the party that
is smoking. He stated that banning smoking to protect the nonsmoker is
not supported by any evidence. Council Member Nichols stated that
smoking on the beach should also be compared to the smoking caused by
barbecues.
Motion by Council Member Webb to adopt Ordinance No. 2004 -19
prohibiting smoking on all public piers, beaches, beach walkways, floats,
wharfs and Inspiration and Lookout Points.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: Nichols
Abstain: None
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Absent: None
15. GENERAL PLAN UPDATE — GUIDING PRINCIPLES.
Council Member Nichols stated that the guiding principles seem to
promote a dramatic increase in density. He asked if the justification for
doing this was due to the State's requirement for a higher density of
housing within Newport Beach. Assistant City Manager Wood stated
that the guiding principles don't address density or intensity, that they
are only broad guiding statements, which might be thought of as goals or
policies for the general plan update. She stated that they were developed
by the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) to guide the process of
developing land use alternatives for further analysis and for evaluating
those alternatives. The item was agendized for the current meeting to
present to the City Council the Planning Commission's suggested
changes to the principles. She noted that the most significant change
was the use of the word "should" in place of "shall" or "will". She
explained that the Planning Commission felt that the principles shouldn't
be firm or directive.
In response to Council Member Nichol's concern that the information
isn't reaching the public, City Manager Bludau noted that the staff report
lists the 38 principles. Assistant City Manager Wood added that two
study sessions were held, and that there is a website for the general plan
update. She additionally noted that the principles are on the website as a
part of the current meeting's agenda packet. Council Member Nichols
suggested that the land use alternatives being discussed be put on the
website. She stated that they could be posted after they have been
reviewed by the Planning Commission and the City Council. She noted
that they will also be put on the website as a part of those meeting
agenda packets. City Manager Bludau confirmed that the principles will
be posted on the general plan update website also.
Motion by Mayor Pro Bromberg to receive and file General Plan
Update Guiding Principles.
John Buttolph stated that he is supportive of the 38 principles, but is in
opposition to the recommendation by the Planning Commission, because
it removes the meaning of the principles as principles and turns them
into guiding ideas. He explained that replacing the mandatory language
with "should" renders the concept of principle, meaningless. He urged
the City Council to consider if the principles have any real meaning if the
change is made. Mr. Buttolph stated that principles should be objective.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg suggested that those that are interested in the
process, attend a GPAC or General Plan Update Committee (GPUC)
meeting and listen to the discussions that take place. He explained that
it will provide a better understanding of why the principles are laid out
the way they are, and the thought and consideration that takes place.
Assistant City Manager Wood added that the principles have not been
adopted, and they will not be used to judge any development project that
comes before the City. Further into the process, goals and policies will be
developed and will become a part of the general plan
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Mayor Ridgeway confirmed that the final document will not be vague and
ambiguous.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor
Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
R. MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION -None
S. ADJOURNMENT - at 9:45 p.m. in memory of former City employees Pat
Dunigan and Lenard Post, to an Adjourned Regular Meeting to be held
on September 21, 2004, at 6:30 p.m.
The agenda for the Regular Meeting was posted on September 9, 2004, at
9:00 a.m. on the City Hall Bulletin Board located outside of the City of Newport
Beach Administration Building. The supplemental agenda for the Regular
Meeting was posted on September 10, 2004, at 1:00 p.m. on the City Hall
Bulletin Board located outside of the City of Newport Beach Administration
Building.
City Clerk
is -,,�� , -
Recording Secretary
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Mayor
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