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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09/21/2004 - Adjourned Regular MeetingCITY OF NEWPORT BEACH City Council Minutes Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 - 6:30 p.m. A. ROLL CALL Present: Heffernan, Rosansky, Bromberg, Webb, Nichols, Mayor Ridgeway Absent: District 4 (vacant) B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg C. INVOCATION — Council Member Webb PRESENTATION — Mayor Ridgeway presented a proclamation to Aaron Peirsol, three -time Olympic Gold Medalist in swimming, and the South Coast Jaycees proclaiming October 2004 as the Aaron Peirsol "Achieve Your Dream Month ". Mayor Ridgeway also presented Mr. Peirsol with a Key to the City. Rhonda Borth accepted the proclamation on behalf of the South Coast Jaycees. Mr. Peirsol thanked the City for the recognition, and stated that the Olympics have been a great experience for him. He advised others to take the advice of their parents, coaches and friends. D. CONTINUED BUSINESS 1. INTERVIEWS OF A NEW DISTRICT 4 COUNCIL MEMBER. Mayor Ridgeway stated that each interview will last approximately 25 minutes. The candidates will be offered a two - minute introduction and at the conclusion of the questions, a five - minute closing statement. Mayor Ridgeway stated that the order of the interviews will be randomly selected, and announced that Ron Winship was unable to attend the meeting due to an operation. Mayor Ridgeway stated that in order for the procedure to be fair, the candidates will be kept together in the Council Conference Room without the ability to hear the other interviews as they are conducted. The questions asked by the council members will be pertinent to the selection process, the public will be allowed to comment at the conclusion of the interviews, and a discussion by the council members will follow. The candidates will return to the Council Chambers at this time also. Mayor Ridgeway noted that the pool of candidates is a qualified pool and that the applications speak for themselves. He stated that if a new council member is selected at the current meeting, a swearing -in ceremony will also be conducted. City Clerk Harkless drew a candidate name from a hat and announced that Charles Griffin would be the first candidate to be interviewed. The Council Chambers was cleared of the remaining candidates. Charles Griffin stated that he has resided in the Eastbluff community since 1974 and that District 4 includes the prime business and industrial Volume 56 - Page 1214 INDEX District 4 City Council Candidate Interviews & Selection (33) City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX area in Newport beach contiguous to the airport. He stated that he wants to represent both of these aspects of District 4, and that his experience in developing aircraft gives him an intimate background in evaluating the effects of airports on both the economy and the quality of life in the community. He noted that traffic is another concern of his. Mayor Ridgeway asked what Mr. Griffin felt were the two or three most important policy issues facing Newport Beach and the City Council. Mr. Griffin stated that the most important thing is to make a good master plan for the City. He cited his experience in this area and the litigation that he was involved in that allowed the CEQA process to be applied toward private development. Mr. Griffin stated that another important issue for Newport Beach is prosperity, and that there needs to be a balance between the adverse and positive impacts of growth. Council Member Rosansky asked what qualities a council member should have. Mr. Griffin stated that the qualities should include honesty, integrity and knowledge. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Griffin to provide the "job description" of a council member. Mr. Griffin stated that the tasks of a council member would include decisions on development, balancing the budget, making sure that the necessary income is available for police and fire protection, providing library services, and maintaining parks and recreation. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that council members represent the entire City. He asked why Mr. Griffin should be appointed over the eight other applicants. Mr. Griffin responded by stating that he should be chosen because of the master plan that is being faced and its enforcement, his history with the environmental quality act and environmental impact reports, and his detailed knowledge of aircraft. Council Member Webb asked what issues will be coming up in District 4 and what thoughts Mr. Griffin had for how those might be handled. Mr. Griffin stated that the airport is a major issue and that a permanent curfew needs to be established. He stated that traffic is also very important. Council Member Heffernan asked Mr. Griffin if he was for or against the Marinapark development. Mayor Ridgeway stated that such questions cannot be asked of the candidates, because it causes them to be prejudged, biased and not impartial. Acting City Attorney Clausen stated that generalized questions about different types of developments in the City can be asked. Asking a candidate how they might vote on an individual project that might be coming before the City Council cannot be asked and would not be appropriate. Mr. Griffin addressed Council Member Heffernan's question by stating that when dealing with such a development, projects need to be defined before opinions can be made. Volume 56 - Page 1215 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX In regard to the prior discussion about what questions are allowed and not allowed during the current interview process, Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg stated that by asking a candidate about a particular issue that might be voted on by the City Council in the future, the candidate has prejudged the issue and been compromised. Council Member Heffernan asked what would happen if the same types of questions are asked at a candidate forum. Acting City Attorney Clauson stated that they could be answered. She explained that it differs from the current interview process where it might appear that a council member is making an appointment based on a particular answer on a project that a candidate hasn't had an opportunity to learn about. She stated that the election process is different. Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Griffin how the traffic situation in the City could be improved. Mr. Griffin stated that it's a difficult question and one that he's thought about for many years. He specifically noted that crossing the bay is a vital transportation problem that needs to be addressed, and suggested that better bypass routes should be considered for traffic that is not destined for Newport Beach. Mr. Griffin stated that traffic and solutions to the problem need to be a continued focus. For his closing statement, Mr. Griffin stated that he's had a good life and that his experiences have given him his knowledge and judgment. He briefly discussed his life in the area, and stated that he wanted to give back to the community and preserve the history of his background. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Leslie Daigle would be the next candidate interviewed. Leslie Daigle stated that she is currently a Planning Commissioner and that her approach involves reading the reports, reviewing the plans, visiting the sites, looking at the pros and cons, and listening to all of the viewpoints before coming to a decision. She stated that she tries to balance the needs of the City, the applicant and the residents, without alignment to any particular group. Ms. Daigle stated that she wants to protect the City's quality of life, and believes that the City's pressing problems require resolution that is a balance of innovation and tradition. She stated that she'd like be a strong advocate for her district and the back bay, and work with each of the council members for the betterment of the community. Mayor Ridgeway asked Ms. Daigle what she felt were the two to three most important issues currently facing the City Council and how she perceived them. Ms. Daigle stated that one of the issues is water quality. She stated that Newport Beach is a leader in water quality, is willing to try new technologies and invest in its programs. Ms. Daigle stated that another important issue is the John Wayne Airport, and that the City is looking at sharing in the decision making on the expansion of the airport by forming a joint powers authority. Volume 56 - Page 1216 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg asked Ms. Daigle what sets her apart from the eight other candidates. Ms. Daigle stated that she is fairly new in terms of her involvement, but is passionate about getting more involved and bringing a better quality of life to the community. She stated that her profession has provided her with experience in dealing with governmental agencies and local communities, which will also be helpful. Council Member Webb asked what issues in District 4 Ms. Daigle thinks will need to be addressed by the City Council. Ms. Daigle stated that these would include construction of the new Santa Ana Heights fire station and community center, the expansion of several churches, traffic, and welcoming the recently- annexed Santa Ana Heights community to the City. She stated that the airport and the back bay would also be included on this list. Council Member Nichols asked Ms. Daigle her thoughts for improving the traffic situation in the City. Ms. Daigle stated that she would begin by continuing the study on traffic improvements that was spearheaded by former Council Member Adams. Council Member Rosansky asked what Ms. Daigle felt were the qualities and qualifications necessary to be a council member. Ms. Daigle stated that being helpful and accessible would be important. Fortitude is also important, as well as decision making skills and the willingness to work as a team. Ms. Daigle stated that an understanding of how government works would also be important, as would a desire to do the job and represent people. Council Member Heffernan asked Ms. Daigle what impact she thinks having a female on the City Council would have. Ms. Daigle stated that it's up to the individual interpretations of the council members and what they believe is appropriate for the community. She stated that a woman would represent the community in terms of the City's demographics. For her closing statement, Ms. Daigle thanked the council members for their consideration and hoped that she presented her interests and expertise during the course of the interview. She stated that she'd like to work with each of the council members for the betterment of the community. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Gerald Hegger would be the next candidate interviewed. Gerald Hegger stated that he looks at and evaluates potential issues and policies by utilizing cost benefit analysis and problem resolution. Through this method, the appropriate information can be collected and the costs can be effectively compared. Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Hegger to present his ideas on the important issues currently facing the City Council. Mr. Hegger stated that the most important issue is the proposed expansion of John Wayne Airport Volume 56 - Page 1217 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX and the negative impacts it would have on the community. He stated that another issue is the back bay and that it needs to be maintained. Thirdly, he stated that as the City grows, water is another important issue. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Hegger what sets him apart from the eight other applicants. Mr. Hegger stated that each applicant brings different skills and abilities, and the appropriate individual is the one who would bring the skills and abilities that could be used most effectively. He noted that his skills are of a financial nature. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Hegger what qualities and qualifications he feels are necessary to be a council member. Mr. Hegger stated that it would be necessary to want and desire the betterment of the community, and to look at issues objectively. Council Member Rosansky stated that decisions don't always come down to dollars and cents. He asked how Mr. Hegger would incorporate the intangibles into his decisions. Mr. Hegger stated that there are ways to quantify particular attributes of any issue. Mayor Ridgeway noted that the relinquishment of Coast Highway in Corona del Mar made no financial sense. He asked Mr. Hegger to comment. Mr. Hegger stated that he doesn't know the particulars of that issue. Council Member Webb asked Mr. Hegger if there were other issues, besides the airport, that he feels will be coming before the City Council in regard to District 4. Mr. Hegger stated he's not aware of the issues that might be coming up in District 4. Council Member Nichols stated that the City has continuing traffic problems. He asked Mr. Hegger what his ideas would be to lessen the current traffic problems and those that may arise in the future. Mr. Hegger stated that there are limits on expansion of the roads and changing what has been done in the past, but that the future can be affected. He noted that in other cities, changing the direction of traffic on particular lanes to accommodate rush hour traffic and relieve some of the congestion has appeared to be effective. He stated that in regard to growth, he's a proponent of small business and tourism. In closing, Mr. Hegger stated that he's interested in serving on the City Council to make a contribution to the community and become more involved. He stated that he has the desire and the time. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Timothy Brown would be the next candidate interviewed. Timothy Brown stated that he has been a resident in Newport Beach for eighteen years and that in November 2003, he was appointed as a Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commissioner. He listed some of the issues he has been a part of since the appointment. Mr. Brown stated that he is most widely known, however, for his involvement in Leadership Volume 56 - Page 1218 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX Tomorrow. He stated that the mission of Leadership Tomorrow is to empower citizens to become involved in their community by providing leadership opportunities, relevant and reliable information, and debate on current issues common to all communities. Mr. Brown stated that he's a teacher, by profession, and he provided information on his educational background. Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Brown what he feels are the most important issues currently facing the City Council and the City. Mr. Brown stated that the number one issue facing the City is the threat of expansion of the airport, and that it needs to be realized that El Toro is no longer an option. He stated that the issue needs to be addressed and that there will be pressure to expand service at the airport. Mr. Brown stated that another issue are those concerning the fragile ecological system in the area. He stated that the City is looked to for leadership in minimizing threats to the environment. Thirdly, Mr. Brown stated that the City needs to look at creative ways to develop. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Brown what sets him apart from the eight other applicants. Mr. Brown stated that he is fascinated with public policy and the process that public officials go through to make decisions, that it would be a challenge for him and is something he wants to evolve into. He stated that he's an educator and has a compassion for people. Helping people help themselves is what he does everyday, that it's important and a function of the City Council, and is what distinguishes himself from others. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Brown what qualities and qualifications he feels are necessary to be a council member in Newport Beach. Mr. Brown stated that the most important one is passion, and that compassion, interest, time and being proud of where you live are also important. He stated that some experience in working with staff and the City Council would also be beneficial. Council Member Webb asked Mr. Brown to list some of the things, besides the airport, that are going on in District 4 and will need guidance or action from the City Council. Mr. Brown stated that there is always a concern for property values and property rights. He stated that more parks and possibly a swimming pool are needed, and that traffic will continue to be an issue and a concern. Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Brown how the City can improve the traffic situation. Mr. Brown stated that traffic is an important consideration and that when development is looked at, traffic issues have to be addressed. He stated that some streets can be widened, but that it's a complex issue and traffic problems need a great deal of study and analysis. For his closing statement, Mr. Brown stated that prior to former Council Member Adams' resignation, he had already made plans to run for District 4 in 2006. He felt that he would have a good chance of being elected because he can inspire people, and added that he would have Volume 56 - Page 1219 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX preferred this to competing for an appointment, which he feels is more political. Mr. Brown stated that he would approach every responsibility associated with the appointment with diligence, he would be certain that he was well informed prior to any debate and, in times of conflict, he would do what was necessary to build consensus among the council members. At all times, he would listen to the residents and show respect for their point of view. Mr. Brown stated that he would represent Newport Beach with determination and integrity, and inspire others to become more involved in community affairs by making City government friendlier and less intimidating. Mr. Brown stated that he is driven to civic leadership because he genuinely cares about people, and wants to help others help themselves. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Barry Eaton would be the next candidate interviewed. Barry Eaton briefly described his background and stated that he has been very active in the community, especially during the past ten years. Mr. Eaton stated that he is active on his homeowners association board, has served on the Airport Working Group board, was appointed to the Planning Commission in June 2003 and has also served on the Environmental Quality Affairs Committee (EQAC) and the General Plan Update Committee (GPUC). Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Eaton what he feels are the important issues facing the City Council. Mr. Eaton stated that internally, the most important issue is the general plan update, which will affect the City for the next 20 to 25 years. He stated that other internal issues include the City Hall issue and the budgeting process. Mr. Eaton stated that other issues that the City is involved in include the expansion of the John Wayne Airport, water quality, dredging and the local coastal plan. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Eaton why he thinks he stands out over the other eight applicants. Mr. Eaton stated that he would stand out because of his work ethic, his history of leadership with his homeowners association and his experience on the committees mentioned earlier. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Eaton what qualities and qualifications he feels are necessary to be a council member in Newport Beach. Mr. Eaton stated that the individual needs to be intelligent, very aware, and have the ability to work with others and build consensus. Mr. Eaton stated that it's also important to have a long involvement with the City and the City civic process in order to be able to grasp the issues that come before the City Council on a policy level. Council Member Webb asked what issues will be coming before the City Council in District 4. Mr. Eaton stated that the list would include traffic in the airport area, the Santa Ana Heights redevelopment funds and other issues in the area, continuation of the efforts of the Corona del Mar High School traffic task force and Queen of Angels. Volume 56 - Page 1220 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Eaton what alternatives are available to address traffic congestion in the community. Mr. Eaton stated that the City won't have much choice in the airport area because of the development being done in the City of Irvine, and that only so much mitigation can be done. He stated that it's also an issue on Coast Highway in Corona del Mar. He explained that the traffic phasing ordinance allows for the possibility of planned deficiencies and with Vision 2004, that would be the result. In closing, Mr. Eaton stated that he's not committed to any one group, but does listen to their viewpoints and does his homework before making a decision. He stated that when he has a technical issue, he contacts staff prior to the meeting. He realized that the City Council deals with a broader range of issues than the Planning Commission, and that he won't be able to be as focused as a technical person but will need to become more of a policy person. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Michael Browning would be the next candidate interviewed. Michael Browning stated that he's been a resident of Newport Beach for over 30 years. He stated that he considers himself a service oriented person and that serving the people of Newport Beach would receive all of his attention. Mr. Browning stated that he's aware of the issues and that his experience qualifies him to address the challenges and participate in finding solutions. He stated that quality of life needs to be protected, and balance and rationale must be found in development. Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Browning what he feels are the important issues facing the City Council. Mr. Browning stated that the most significant issue is the airport, and that the demand for it will grow. He stated that preserving the quality of life in Newport Beach will largely depend upon what happens with the airport. Mr. Browning stated that keeping the harbor clean and environmental issues are also important, as is the amendment to the general plan. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Browning what sets him apart from the eight other candidates. Mr. Browning stated that he doesn't know the other candidates very well, but that he's had a long history of business experience, and is very active in all forms of negotiations, entitlement projects and business management challenges. Council Member Webb asked Mr. Browning what some of the District 4 issues are. Mr. Browning stated that in addition to the airport, the Santa Ana Heights area is an issue. He explained that the redevelopment agency is not controlled by the City, and that an additional area is being considered for annexation, which is the most challenging issue in the district. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Browning what qualities and qualifications he feels are necessary to be a Newport Beach council member. Mr. Browning stated that the individual should listen to all Volume 56 - Page 1221 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX sides, not be influenced by any special interests and diligently try to reach the best solution for the City. Council Member Heffernan asked Mr. Browning what his relationship is to the references listed on his application. Mr. Browning stated that he has had a business relationship with Mike Harrison for many years and that he considers Michael Stevens to be a close friend. Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Browning how the increase in traffic and growth in the area should be handled. Mr. Browning stated that traffic is a major concern in the City and is a part of balanced development. He stated that each project must address the traffic issues, that he feels strongly about this and that it effects the quality of life in the community. In his closing statement, Mr. Browning stated that he's been active in many types of service and is ready to put in the time that would be necessary to fulfill his obligation as a member of the City Council. City Clerk Harkless drew a name from the hat and announced that Richard Luehrs would be the next candidate interviewed. Richard Luehrs stated that he's lived and worked in the community for 22 years, and that his job as the Chamber of Commerce President is all about service to the community. He noted the other similarities in what he does and what is done by the council members, and listed some of the citizens in the community that he has worked with. Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Luehrs what the most important issues are that are currently facing the City Council. Mr. Luehrs stated that there are internal issues such as annexations and Josh Slocums, but that the external issues, or those that the City doesn't have total control over, are the issues that have the more significant impact on the community. He specifically listed water quality issues and the impact of the airport on the community as being important. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Luehrs if he sees any problem with him serving as a council member while also continuing his work with the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Luehrs responded in the negative and stated that he can separate himself from his job when looking at the issues and that he can be objective. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked Mr. Luehrs what sets him apart from the other applicants. Mr. Luehrs stated that because of his hands -on experience in the community, he knows the City staff, the systems, the way decisions are made and how things are worked out in the community. He stated another thing that might set him apart is that he already has an established relationship with several elected California officials and others in Sacramento. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Luehrs what he feels are the qualities and qualifications necessary to be a council member. Mr. Luehrs stated that the individual must have integrity, be accessible to the public, be able to devote the time to studying the issues, be Volume 56 - Page 1222 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX open and receptive to differing points of view, objectively access those points of view and come to a decision. Council Member Rosansky asked Mr. Luehrs if he feels that he will be able to devote the necessary time. Mr. Luehrs responded in the affirmative and stated that he already attends many of the same events that are attended by the council members. Council Member Heffernan referenced the City Council Study Session of September 14, 2004, where a restaurant owner expressed dissatisfaction with some water issues, and asked Mr. Luehrs how he would distinguish himself as a council member versus his business involvement with the restaurant association. Mr. Luehrs stated that the grease interceptor ordinance has been a work in progress and he believes that a compromise will be reached that everyone will be happy with. Council Member Heffernan asked how Mr. Luehrs could take a position adverse to business if he were a council member, but still serving on the Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Luehrs stated that the grease interceptor ordinance, for example, already exists and what is being sought is further compliance. He stated that his role would be to try to gain compliance by explaining the issues. Council Member Webb asked Mr. Luehrs what he thinks are some of the issues in District 4. Mr. Luehrs stated that the list would include a couple of church expansions, and the impact of Corona del Mar High School on the surrounding neighborhood. Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Luehrs how he would handle the increase of traffic in the community. Mr. Luehrs stated that it's important for the community to understand that the City is not creating the traffic. He stated that it's regional in nature and the City should work more closely with the neighboring cities. He stated that other things the City can do would include a continued effort with Measure M, signal synchronization, and making sure that traffic is moving as well as possible, given the constraints. In closing, Richard Luehrs stated that he has a great deal of experience in the community and is the most qualified applicant. He noted, however, that the only reason he wouldn't be appointed is for political reasons. Mr. Luehrs stated that too much is at stake to not appoint him. City Clerk Harkless announced that John Blom would be the next candidate interviewed. John Blom stated that he has been involved in the community for many years, has owned a business in Corona del Mar for over 25 years and has lived in Eastbluff for 20 years. Mr. Blom stated that he has devoted a lot of time to preserving and improving the quality of life in Newport Beach, and that he is involved because he cares. Mayor Ridgeway asked Mr. Blom what the important issues are that are facing the City Council. Mr. Blom stated that the biggest issue facing the City is the airport expansion possibility. He stated that there is Volume 56 - Page 1223 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 u7 going to be extreme pressure on Newport Beach to change the working agreement and allow more flights. He stated that another issue is water quality and the dredging of the back bay, and a third issue is the mansionization of Newport Beach. He stated that he respects the rights of property owners to maximize the worth of their property, but that it also creates additional traffic, people and parking problems. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked how he would handle a property owner who wanted to develop his property to that allowed by the entitlement. Mr. Blom stated that the property owner should be prepared to face the consequences of more traffic or less parking on the street. Council Member Bromberg asked Mr. Blom what sets him apart from the other candidates. Mr. Blom stated that he's a business owner, and sees what they face as far as government rules and regulations and the problems with health insurance and workers compensation. He stated that he's a hard worker and is determined to be successful. Council Member Rosansky asked what qualities and qualifications are necessary to be a council member in Newport Beach. Mr. Blom stated that it's important that the individual has lived in the City for a number of years, has been involved in the community, has integrity, is truthful and respects other people's feelings. Council Member Webb asked what issues in District 4, besides the airport, Mr. Blom felt would be coming before the City Council. Mr. Blom stated that the dredging of the back bay is a major issue, as well as the Queen of Angels expansion. He stated that the people in the area will need to be listened to and their problems addressed. Council Member Nichols asked Mr. Blom why a business would have any more right to park on a street than a resident who pays for the street and owns it to the center. Mr. Blom stated that businesses don't have any more rights than residents, some provide their own parking and they respect the rights of the homeowners in the area. Council Member Nichols asked how Mr. Blom would address traffic. Mr. Blom stated that some areas in the City have more problems than others, and he's not an advocate of moving traffic faster but is an advocate of having traffic flow, such as can be done through signal synchronization. For his closing remarks, John Blom stated that he'd bring to the City Council a retail business person's point of view and knowledge. Along with being the successful business owner of a photography studio, Mr. Blom stated that he has the ability to view life through the eyes of an artist, which involves compassion and the ability to listen and understand people. He stated that he would bring to the City Council a more diversified point of view, which would compliment and add to the ideas expressed by others. Mr. Blom stated that it is important to hear all sides before making judgments. Mayor Ridgeway recessed the meeting at 9:30 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:40 p.m with all Council Members present. Volume 56 - Page 1224 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting .September 21, 2004 INDEX Mayor Ridgeway welcomed the candidates ba Chambers and opened the item to public comments. public comments would be limited to three minutes. i to the Council He announced that Ann Watt stated that District 4 encompasses the airport area, so it's important that the council representative be knowledgeable in all things aviation related. She stated that the representative should be able to balance the needs of trade, tourism and job creation with the need to keep John Wayne Airport neighborhood friendly. She stated that the representative should also be able to understand environmental impact reports, avoid litigation to the City, be honest, full of integrity, listen to all sides of an issue and select a solution that has the best long term interest of the public. Ms. Watt stated that Mr. Griffin is the candidate most suited to represent District 4 and the interests of Newport Beach. Henry "Hank' Jordan stated that all of the candidates are qualified and each one feels that the most important issue is the airport. He noted that transportation and the master plan were also mentioned. Mr. Jordan stated that Mr. Griffin is intelligent, sincere, has integrity, and is honest and dependable. Mr. Jordan stated that Mr. Griffin now has the time and the passion to give something back to the community. Jim Percival stated that he is also speaking on behalf of his wife, Mary Westbrook, and that he has known Mr. Blom for 20 years. He stated that Mr. Blom is a wonderful person and that it's important to select a council member that has the ability to make decisions and handle the various issues that come before the City Council. Mr. Percival stated that Mr. Blom is a good listener, will listen to all sides, is a businessman with an artist's sensibility and is passionate about what is good for the City. Jack Coldridge stated that Mr. Griffin is intellectually honest, passionate, suspends judgment until he gets the facts, does his homework and develops a balanced plan. Mr. Coldridge stated that such qualifications are important for dealing with the City's general master plan and the airport. He stated that both are complex issues and require vision and planning. 2. SELECTION OF DISTRICT 4 COUNCIL MEMBER. Mayor Ridgeway reminded everyone that in addition to the eight applicants that were interviewed at the current meeting, Ron Winship is also a candidate for the position. Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg stated that if the City Council is unable to make the appointment prior to the deadline, that the matter will go to the voters. He stated that it will be a difficult decision and all of the applicants are qualified. Council Member Heffernan stated that the appointment is being taken seriously, is upfront and all of the applicants are to be commended. Volume 56 - Page 1225 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX Council Member Nichols stated that he is pleased with the applicants also, and that the decision will be difficult. Mayor Ridgeway stated that the applicants that are not selected should not take it personally. He thanked each of the applicants for their time and effort, their involvement in the City and their desire to become more involved. Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg confirmed with the City Clerk that in the event of a tie, a council member can change their vote by asking for another vote. Council Member Rosansky announced that he consulted with the Acting City Attorney on a potential conflict he may have and that it was determined that he did not have a conflict and would not need to abstain from voting. In the interest of full disclosure, he stated that he has received contributions to his campaign from Mr. Blom, Mr. Brown, Ms. Daigle and Mr. Eaton, and is seeking the endorsement of the Chamber of Commerce. He stated that the applicants are all qualified and it will be a tough decision. Mayor Ridgeway requested that the council members cast their votes and present them to the City Clerk. City Clerk Harkless announced the votes, as follows: Council Member Heffernan — Leslie Daigle Council Member Rosansky — Barry Eaton Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg — Barry Eaton Council Member Webb — Leslie Daigle Council Member Nichols — Barry Eaton Mayor Ridgeway — Leslie Daigle Mayor Ridgeway thanked the applicants that were eliminated by the vote. Council Member Webb stated that Ms. Daigle and Mr. Eaton were at the top of his list. He stated that he was impressed with Ms. Daigle's presentation and her knowledge of many community issues, and felt that she would be open to receiving input from residents and businesses. He stated that her qualities of being helpful, accessible, making good decisions and knowing how to work with others would be important. Council Member Rosansky agreed with Council Member Webb's comments, but stated that he voted for Mr. Eaton because he's been around for a long time, has been involved with the City and the community, and has shown a commitment through his participation. He stated that the fact that Mr. Eaton has "paid his dues" is persuasive to him. Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that his two top candidates are also Mr. Eaton and Ms. Daigle. He stated that he is incredibly impressed Volume 56 - Page 1226 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX with Ms. Daigle and knows that Mr. Eaton is familiar with the issues in the City. He stated that he voted for Mr. Eaton because of his experience, although he noted that Ms. Daigle is a quick study. Council Member Heffernan stated that Mr. Eaton is very capable, but that it would be important to have a woman on the City Council and that it shows a balance in representing the community. Mayor Ridgeway agreed that Mr. Eaton is eminently qualified, but stated that he's looking for a fresh outlook and that a woman on the City Council would be important. He stated that Ms. Daigle is bright, articulate, and a quick study. Council Member Nichols agreed that they are both good candidates, but that he voted for Mr. Eaton because he admires how he does his job, and that he has a special background that is good for the City. He suggested that another vote be conducted. Mayor Ridgeway requested that the council members cast their votes and present them to the City Clerk. City Clerk Harkless announced the votes, as follows: Council Member Heffernan — Leslie Daigle Council Member Rosansky — Barry Eaton Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg — Barry Eaton Council Member Webb — Leslie Daigle Council Member Nichols — Barry Eaton Mayor Ridgeway — Leslie Daigle Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked that another vote be conducted. Mayor Ridgeway requested that the council members cast their votes and present them to the City Clerk. City Clerk Harkless announced the votes, as follows: Council Member Heffernan — Leslie Daigle Council Member Rosansky — Barry Eaton Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg — Leslie Daigle Council Member Webb — Leslie Daigle Council Member Nichols — Barry Eaton Mayor Ridgeway — Leslie Daigle Mayor Ridgeway congratulated Ms. Daigle. 3. ADMINISTRATION OF OATH OF OFFICE. City Clerk Harkless called newly appointed Council Member Daigle forward and administered the Oath of Office prescribed in the State Constitution. Council Member Daigle signed the Oath of Office and took her seat at the Council dais. Volume 56 - Page 1227 City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 Council Member Daigle thanked the council members and stated that she is looking forward to working with each of them for the betterment of the community and addressing the concerns of her constituents. E. PUBLIC COMMENTS - None F. ADJOURNMENT - at 10:20 p.m. The agenda for the Adjourned 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 Recording Secretary Mayor Volume 56 - Page 1228 IIN City of Newport Beach Adjourned Regular Meeting September 21, 2004 INDEX THIS PAGE LEFT BLANK INTENTIONALLY. Volume 56 - Page 1229