HomeMy WebLinkAbout01 - 8-27-2002September 10, 2002
Agenda Item No. 1
CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Minutes
Study Session
August 27, 2002 - 4:10 p.m. DRAFT INDEX
ROLL CALL
Present: Heffernan, Bromberg, Glover (arrived at 5:55 p.m.), Adams, Mayor
Ridgeway
Absent: O'Neil, Proctor
CURRENT BUSINESS
1. CLARIFICATION OF ITEMS ON THE CONSENT CALENDAR.
Regarding Item No. 5 (Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian [PA2002- 0381),
Council Member Heffernan asked if changing the definition of square footage
expands the building envelopes, heights, etc. versus the existing Hoag Hospital
Development Agreement. He indicated that he can receive the answer tonight.
2. TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY SITING ISSUES.
Assistant City Manager Kiff utilized a PowerPoint presentation to discuss
wireless telecommunications. He reported that a joint meeting was held
between Council and the Telecommunications (Telecom) Committee on April 23,
2002, and a draft wireless telecom ordinance and Council Policy L -23 regarding
the siting of facilities on City -owned property were developed. He indicated that
a telecom ordinance is needed because it would govern the size, scope, and
placement of antennas and support facilities throughout the City to protect
public safety, aesthetics, and the overall impacts of having multiple providers in
different areas. He stated that the City cannot "just say no" to people with
wireless telecom proposals because the FCC and the 1996 Telecom Act states
that they have a general right to provide this service. Mr. Kiff reported that the
ordinance would encourage locating antennas in non - residential areas, co-
location on existing sites, and placement where view and public impacts are
minimized. He displayed photos of what the facilities look like in other cities.
He reported that the ordinance would require that the provider use the best
available, smallest technology with the maximum height being 35 feet or what is
allowed in the zoning code, with any exception being brought to Council.
Further, the ordinance sets design standards, sets a permit process that
requires certain submission documents to the Planning Department, allows the
Police Department to review and possibly deny the permit due to conflicts with
public safety communications, and requires a removal bond. He stated that the
ordinance also establishes a Location Priority List and requires co- location
where feasible. He reported that the priority is to use an a) existing co- location
structure, b) existing pole, c) commercial sign, d) new or existing stealth
structure, e) new false tree, f) new monopole, g) new monopole with antenna
attachments, and h) new lattice tower. He pointed out that e) to h) would
require Council approval. He indicated that the ordinance prohibits telecom
facilities on residential lots or open space /passive zoned parcels.
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Mr. Mff reported that the City should adopt a Council Policy because the City
currently has a number of offers to site equipment on City property. He noted
that, if City properties are not used, the telecom companies will use the store
next door and the City would forgo the rent revenue. He added that, by using
City facilities, a policy will give the City additional control over aesthetics and
public safety. He displayed examples of where facilities are being proposed. He
reported that proposed Policy L -23 states that all projects need a permit per the
telecom ordinance and, once the permit is authorized, the City Manager's office
would prepare the lease using a region -based rent. He stated that the leases
would have a minimum 5 -year term with annual CPI and market -based
adjustments at the end of each 5 -year term; and Council can call -up the lease
since the lease will not go into effect for 30 days. He noted that a separate
ordinance would govern the use of City right -of -ways. He reported that eligible
sites include fire stations, City Hall, Police Department headquarters, lifeguard
headquarters, piers, Oasis Senior Center, medians and parkways along public
streets, libraries, corporate yards, Big Canyon Reservoir and surrounding
grounds, certain easements, streetlights, and traffic signals. Ineligible sites
include open space areas owned by the City. He noted that Policy L -23 also
discusses "other City -owned properties" and indicated that parks could be
included in this definition; however, Council could also include it on the list.
Mr. Kiff stated that the next steps include considering comments from Council,
staff and the wireless telecom industry today. He added that he spoke to Police
Chief McDonell who would like the ordinance to have more specifics about the
frequency range for the telecom companies so the Police Department could
possibly exclude certain ranges and be allowed to test the frequencies once it
was in place. He stated that they intend to have the policy adopted on
September 10, have first reading of the ordinance on September 24 with the
second reading on October 8, and bring the right -of -way ordinance to Council on
October 8 with second reading on October 22.
In response to Council Member Heffernan's question, Mr. Kiff stated that the
telecom ordinance came from Aliso Viejo; however, review was conducted by
Planning Consultant Lawrence, staff, and some review by Special Counsel
Marticorena. He added that the City Manager suggested changing `license" and
"permit" to "lease ".
Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg asked about the health concerns. Mr. Kiff stated that
the ordinance attempts to address it; however, the telecom companies would
include a radio frequency (RF) report that would state that the facility complies
with FCC requirements. He reported that the FCC has said that the City
cannot deny an application based on what it believes would be health affects if
the company were complying with FCC rules. Council Member Heffernan
believed that the telecom ordinance deals with the permit (right to install) and
the policy deals with the City becoming a landlord in the lease. He added that
the City cannot deny a permit based on health issues but there is no
requirement for the City to become a landlord. Mayor Ridgeway noted that this
does not preclude a telecom company from going to the private property next
door and requesting a lease agreement with them. Mr. Kiff confirmed that, as
long as they complied with the ordinance, they could get a permit from the City
to do this.
Joe Morales, AT &T, showed an example of a phone that works with the new
third generation (3 -G) technology. He reported that first generation was analog,
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second generation was digital, and third generation has internet capabilities
over wireless technology. He stated that word recognition is also becoming more
enhanced so that, as words are being typed, it types in the rest of the word. He
reported that the 3 -G phone can also provide better locations for caller IDs and
have 911 calls routed directly to the Newport Beach Police Department rather
than the California Highway Patrol.
Mr. Morales stated that the FCC has placed a unique burden on local
jurisdictions and that the City is trying to create a confluence with the
ordinance between federal, state, and local laws. Regarding law enforcement, he
agreed that frequencies have butted against each other, but the FCC is the
regulatory body that oversees the administration of frequencies and how they
work with each other. He added that the FCC has jurisdiction over E -911 issues
and the state has jurisdiction over right -of -ways. He pointed out that consumers
are paying significantly less for their services due to competition and that they
ultimately want networks that work. He stated that he appreciates the scrutiny
the City wants to give in residential areas, but noted that service needs to be
provided in these areas because about 1 in 4 households use wireless phones as
its primary phone. He indicated that the levels of partnership are from a
regulatory point of view, i.e. how to get the service to people, make it
aesthetically blend, and look at the safety concerns. He believed that blocking
them out of areas could also create a hole for safety departments who use
phones in those areas. Regarding right -of -ways, he stated that they are looking
to the City Attorney to work with them because there are right -of -ways in
residential areas. He believed that placing telecom facilities on light standards
and existing facilities at parks is an appropriate means to bringing service into
an area. He asked that, if the City is going to be a landlord, it use the region -
based valuation for the lease because they cannot pay what they used to in order
to operate the networks since they are not charging consumers the same rates
as in the past. Mr. Morales assured that they want to be in partnership with
the City but they hope there will be flexibility and openness.
In response to Council Member Heffernan's questions, Mr. Morales reported
that AT &T did a soft launch about a week ago and that an official launch will be
done in October. He stated that they located seven sites within the City in
which two are on City properties and about four or five are on private
properties. He indicated that the only properties on hold right now are the City
properties due to the lease issues. He stated that, for the time being, the seven
sites should cover Newport Beach fairly well. He reported that their intent is to
have the same coverage for digital and 3 -G technology, and that all the existing
sites are currently receiving radios and equipment to enable it to handle the
technologies; however, because they are on different frequencies and bandwidths
they need to buttress the system so consumers have a similar or better
experience with the network. He stated that they will not make capital
investments unless necessary because they are, trying to balance the needs of
the consumer against the capital expenditures.
Mr. Riff noted that the proposed ordinance states that a telecom facility cannot
be sited on a residential lot, but indicated that a facility could be sited on other
common area lots or non - residential lots within residential districts with
Council approval. Regarding landscaped areas, he confirmed that the land
owner would approve the facility and then would need Council approval.
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Council Member Heffernan asked if there is a conflict when the City restricts a
private landowner's right to get a permit, but allows itself to be a landlord
across the street from the landowner. Special Counsel Bill Marticorena, Rutan
& Tucker, stated that the FCC has made it clear that cities can act in multiple
capacities and that, if a city acts in a propriety function, it is not precluded from
regulating. He indicated that the issue to him is whether the City's regulatory
power has a rational basis. He explained that, if the City prohibits something
and then allows it ten feet away because it is City property, an issue regarding
the rationality can be created. He indicated that it is not necessarily voided. He
agreed that there are legitimate reasons why the City may allow certain things
on public property that may not be allowed on residential property. He
explained that it may be appropriate to allow small antennas in the right -of-
ways that the City controls as a landlord, but it is not allowed next door on a
residential property because the City will be acting as a regulator and would not
have the same breadth of power. He stated that this would need to be looked at
on a case -by -case basis.
Council Member Heffernan asked if the City has a right to prohibit sites because
of interference with emergency communications. Mr. Marticorena stated that
the industry has taken the position that local government has no authority over
radio frequency interference (RFI). He indicated that the problem that police
across the country are having, particularly in Orange County, deal with the 911
system and is due to the rapid proliferation of wireless. He stated that many
municipalities have tried to work with wireless carriers to adopt voluntary
guidelines and is also trying to get a proclamation with directives from the FCC
that local governments may enforce.
Council Member Adams stated that he serves on the Telecom Committee and
believes the City is headed in the right direction. Council Member Heffernan
stated that he assumes the City is receiving formal comments to this proposed
ordinance from the carriers so the City is in a position to commence on this.
Mr. Kiff indicated that he has received a number of comments since yesterday.
Mayor Ridgeway asked that Council receive a 3 -G demonstration when the
ordinance comes before Council. Council Member Heffernan asked that the
Telecom Committee look at the ordinance prior to it coming before Council.
3. ANALYSIS OF POLICE OPERATIONS — JULY 4, 2002.
Police Chief McDonell stated that almost all Police personnel were scheduled to
work on July 4m and added that they are supplemented by 30 California
Highway Patrol Officers, 19 Orange County Sheriffs Deputies, and 4 Costa
Mesa Police Officers. He indicated that their main objective was to put forward
a strong uniformed presence in the Peninsula area. He indicated that the July
4'h reality for the City is that it will continue to be inundated by holiday visitors
each year regardless of the measures that are employed. He stated that it is
difficult to keep people out of the community on July 4th and that they recognize
the impact street closures have on West Newport residents. He noted that large
crowds existed before street closures and they still exist after street closures.
Chief McDonell reviewed the field activity that occurred between 4 p.m. on
July 3, 2002, to 6 a.m. on July 5, 2002, and indicated that it was generally
similar to other years. He expressed concern over the critical incidents that
occurred this year which involved weapons and moderate injuries due to
altercations. He indicated that this was his tenth July 4�h as the Police Chief
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and believed that this year was pretty volatile, especially after dark. He
reported that it cost the City about $90,643 to police this year's July 41h.. He
noted that this does not include the 260 hours of compensatory time taken in
lieu of cash for overtime. He stated that the salary is down by about $4,400
from last year and is due to reductions in overtime. He expressed concern about
the potential for severe consequences due to excessive consumption of alcohol.
He added that the possibility of severe injury to City personnel and visitors is
ever - present and growing from year to year as it becomes more of a recognized
event. He stated that they do not believe there will be change in the character
of the event until a long term change occurs in the character of the Peninsula
neighborhoods from summer rentals to permanent residences. He added that
the employees do an exceptional job of policing the streets with very minimal
serious injuries or impacts under trying circumstances.
Chief McDonell showed a video of July 4'h. He indicated that everyone is in a
festive mood in the early part of the afternoon; however, it gets carried to excess.
The video showed Balboa Boulevard, many of the streets holding patio parties, a
water balloon launcher, arrests, the field command post booking area behind
City Hall, the medical technician from the Sheriffs booking facility that was
hired to clear the arrestees for incarceration, the transportation vans along
Balboa Boulevard, the various ways people transport alcohol, an officer that was
cut by glass debris from a bottle that was thrown, fireworks, Coast Highway
traffic, the deployment of officers to clear Balboa Boulevard at midnight, and the
jail as the arrestees sober up. He pointed out the volume of people on the
streets and reminded everyone that it does not take much to set off a crowd. He
also pointed out the difficulty of access for emergency vehicles. He reported that
about 126 people were booked out of the field command post in a 12 hour period,
starting at 1 p.m. He indicated that, when the anonymity due to darkness takes
over in the evening, people start shooting fireworks and become less cooperative.
He added that this also corresponds with the amount of alcohol that is
consumed by that time. He stated that officers wear helmets in the evening
when they clear the streets, but they do not wear them during the day because
they are trying to be out there among the people, as low -key as possible,
communicating with them.
In response to Mayor Ridgeway's questions regarding the 14 felony arrests,
Lieutenant Klein reported that they were mostly for assaults with deadly
weapons, drugs, and drugs for sale.
Council Member Heffernan asked what City function the City is trying to
provide before someone gets severely injured or murdered. He indicated that
there are very few restrictions about who comes to the City or the hours of
liquor sales, but pointed out that the City continues to deploy huge manpower,
spend a lot of money, and there is potential liability. Chief McDonell stated that
he is not sure they are serving a City function except to police a spontaneous
event that the City knows will occur every year on July 4th. He indicated that
they are only trying to respond to it, contain it, and manage it with their
presence so it does not get completely out of control.
Council Member Adams stated that every year the issue of closing the streets is
discussed. He indicated that he received a letter from the West Newport
Homeowners Association requesting that the City and the Association take a
fresh look at this issue and look for alternatives to accommodate the
spontaneous event. Chief McDonell reported that the Police Department has an
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ongoing relationship with the Association from a
Mr. Bludau asked if the department noticed unusual activity since there was no
fireworks at the Dunes Resort. Chief McDonell stated that they only noticed
that they did not have to deal with the Dunes. He noted that the two events are
very different in terms of who attends since the Dunes is mostly family- oriented.
Mayor Ridgeway clarified that "Peninsula" in these discussions mean 30th Street
to West Newport. He asked if the same type of people are coming into the City
as five to ten years ago. Chief McDonell stated that the people are primarily
young people and that he has not seen significant changes in the demographics.
He reported that 86% of the arrests were people who lived outside the City.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that there are probably 535 summer rental homes from
the Peninsula to West Newport that are historically occupied by numerous
people. Chief McDonell pointed out that July 4th people just travel from one
party to the next. Mayor Ridgeway noted that, as soon as someone steps onto
the sidewalk with alcohol, they are subject to a citation.
Barbara Johnson stated that she used to live on the Peninsula. She indicated
that she was there on July 4th and that it was a disaster. She noted that the
City is spending millions of dollars on a visioning plan and stated that she
cannot believe this day is the vision the City wants. She pointed out that people
refer to Newport as "Zooport" and the Peninsula as the "War Zone ". She asked
how fast the City, the Assembly, or Congress would rule this a natural disaster
about to occur and shut it down if it happened on the public streets of Lido
Island or on Bay Front. She stated that everyone seems to think this is an
acceptable thing to do in Newport because it has been going on for years. She
commended the Police Department, but believed that something really bad is
going to happen sooner or later. She indicated that she tried to get
representatives to talk to her about this and visit that part of the community to
watch it, but no one was willing to spend the day here.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he was previously assigned to a task force to help
put more rules in the codes relative to noise and making the landlord liable for
second acts by the tenants. He indicated that he wished the committee went
further and believed that there should be discussion about abolishing summer
rentals throughout Newport Beach due to public safety. He added that the
University of Irvine uses Peninsula rentals for housing. He stated that, to get
owner - occupied units, the City even eased the requirement for condominium
conversions but this did not help. He believed that the City needs to look at
master planning, turning the numbered streets into cul -de -sacs, and creating
little neighborhoods within the larger neighborhoods to convert the area to
owner - occupied units instead of rental units. He stated that this will take will
power, input from the public in that area, and a policy change to the entire
neighborhood. He indicated that he was supportive of this ten years ago.
Ms. Johnson stated that she was told by Senator Johnson's office that the City
cannot legally close down public streets unless it can determine there is a public
nuisance or a safety hazard. She noted that Miami, Palm Springs, and
Huntington Beach used to have problems during Spring Break, and asked what
the neighboring communities are doing to stop this. She recommended that one
of the Senators or Assemblymen enact a bill so this type of July 4th does not
occur anymore.
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Dolores Otting stated that she went to Pleasanton last weekend for a car show.
She indicated that there were 40,000 people in Downtown Pleasanton and there
were no problems. She added that they were even given a document at the
Marriott in San Ramon which stated that they were the only two people to
occupy that room. She stated that last year during July 4th, she was in Long
Beach with 500,000 people and there were no problems. She indicated that she
does not understand why alcohol has to be sold in the City on July 4th. She
noted that a key is needed to get cigarettes; however, someone can get a lot of
alcohol with no problem. She reported that the City belongs to the League of
Cities and believed that the City has a lot of vehicles to make changes. She
stated that having this happen every year is ridiculous. She added that bicycles
should also be prohibited on July 4th.
Gene Dorney stated that he is on the Fourth of July Task Force with the West
Newport Homeowners Association. He indicated that they are happy that
Council has seen the video and commended the Police Department on a
marvelous job of showing restraint, its presence, and for its planning. He added
that they get better every year. He stated that this does not stem from one
problem, like summer rentals, but also from things like foot traffic and tour
buses dropping people off at the City's borders from as far as Oxnard and
Ventura County. He indicated that it may be time to consider a total closure of
the streets for July 40h. He noted that the people in the crowds are young
people, but pointed out that some of them are in their early 30s. He stated that
people come from miles around because they know there is action. He suggested
that the City portray a less hospitable image and address all the issues. He
noted that the Colorado River used to be like this, but the party moved on.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that, even if the City could close the roads under the
Vehicle Code, the California Coastal Commission prohibits the City from closing
the beaches. He pointed out that the July 4th visitors may end up on the sand
which places them in front of houses where it is difficult to patrol. He indicated
that a survey was conducted ten years ago which reported that about 70% of the
units in the area are rental units.
Paul Watkins, 6405 West Ocean Front, thanked Council Members O'Neil and
Glover on behalf of the West Newport Homeowners Association for their years of
service. He stated that, at their July Board Meeting, the Association discussed
July 4th. He indicated that he believes something more serious needs to be done.
He reported that his female friend felt very unsafe during July 4th while riding
in West Newport and asked to return home. He noted that the staff report
referenced rapes, people losing teeth, having broken noses, and the 162 arrests,
and asked if it is time to do something. He believed that the City should take
some litigation risks since it is time to restore order in the community. He
suggested that Council consider appointing an ad hoc committee, called "The
July 41h West Newport Safe and Sane Committee ", which will be chaired by
Council Member Proctor and include representatives from the City Attorney's
office, the Police Department, and one or two representatives from the
Association. He believed that the mission of the committee should be to
establish and implement an action plan to make dramatic changes to restore
peace and sanity in West Newport over July 4th. He added that a plan should be
in place six months before the next July 4th so the residents will be familiar with
it and prepared to abide by it. He noted that Huntington Beach and Palm
Springs has done some things to restore order and the quality of life to its
residents and added that Newport Beach residents deserve no less.
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Council Member Heffernan stated that the Port Streets had a lively Halloween
assembly about ten years ago which had problems. However, the following year,
the streets were closed and only residents were allowed to participate. He
indicated that the problem was solved and there was no longer a need to close it
again.
Madalene Arakelian stated that, at one point, only residents were allowed on
the Peninsula and traffic was controlled. She wondered why this was stopped.
She asked whether the City has an ordinance regarding how many people can
occupy a rental property. Mayor Ridgeway noted that the City faced an issue
last year in which a family rented a house but let their college kids take it over
with 10 to 12 friends. He stated that the City could not prevent the 10 to 12
people from being there. He noted that the agent who tried to lock down the
house was arrested and had to pay a fine. He reported that the tenants were
protected under landlord/tenant law.
Ms. Arakelian asked how many of the young people were under 18 years old and
why the City cannot have an ordinance that requires people under 18 to have
adult supervision. She reported that Dana Point has a lot of people in the area
on July 4th, but they do not have this problem. She stated that she would like to
find out what they are doing to prevent this. She indicated that the City needs
to do something about it and that she does not want to hear "we can't do it ".
Mary Bryant stated that she agrees with everything everyone has said and
indicated that it is time that the City looked at other communities and how they
are celebrating the Fourth of July, i.e. 5K runs and pancake breakfasts.
Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg stated that he has been viewing tapes like this for
years and that every tape, no matter the year, has the same amount of people,
same type of people in the area, and the same problems. He indicated that he
has asked himself why the City has this, noting that Balboa Island has summer
rentals but these problems do not exist there. He stated that the City would be
dealing with Constitutional issues, but believed the City needs to stop being
afraid and take extreme measures. He emphasized that not every
Constitutional right is a protected right. He believed that it is impossible for
something really bad to not happen, pointing out that the officer who was hit
with glass this year could have had a shard of glass go through his head. He
expressed the opinion that the City has the legal parameters to take drastic and
extreme measures. He added that the City could prohibit alcohol for a day,
close streets, and limit the area to residents only. He stated that forming a
committee is a perfect start.
Council Member Adams recommended that the formation of the committee be
brought back to Council at the next Council meeting. Mayor Ridgeway agreed
and believed it is also time that the City look at the homeownership /summer
rentals in the area and the measures mentioned by Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg.
Council Member Adams believed that the long term planning issues should be
dealt with separately. He stated that the immediate need is to consider Mayor
Pro Tem Bromberg's suggestions to address the problem now and, on a parallel
track, look at long term land use issues that may be contributory. He indicated
that, if the committee's scope is too broad, it will make it difficult to get things
done. Mayor Ridgeway believed that the Council Member of the district should
scope and identify issues for the committee. He noted that there was a previous
committee that was formed years ago for this issue. Council Member Adams
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stated that this issue is more than something that just the Council Member
from the district should have jurisdiction and involvement over, believing that
this is a liability issue for the entire City and is an issue that affects the City
budget and reputation. He suggested that, when creating the committee,
Council representation be more than just the Council Member from the district.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that the City may constitutionally have a
problem with limiting property rights regarding summer rentals. He agreed
with Council Member Adams that a committee is needed and that it is a
regional issue within the City. He asked if the City Attorney's office could look
at this now since the City knows what it wants to accomplish.
Council Member Heffernan stated that he cannot believe there is extended
discussion about this problem since it is intolerable. He indicated that this
event is an insult to the City and would never happen on Balboa Island and the
Port Streets; however, it happens on the Peninsula and people turn their backs.
He stated that other jurisdictions have had this problem and were able to
deflate whatever the ingredients are that make a party place. He pointed out
that there are a lot of people gathered in one location with a lot of alcohol. He
believed that the focus should be to eliminate the event or at least greatly
reduce it in 2003. He stated that the committee should have, by the end of the
year, some concrete suggestions that can be implemented so, by the end of the
first quarter, the City knows what it is going to do. He believed that, if the City
fumbles around and worries about the Constitution, nothing will get done and
the same problems will exist next year that will take years to deflate. He noted
that there are residents from the area who know the background and history,
and stated that those people are the ones who will be most directly affected and
benefited by this. He agreed that this is a Citywide problem. He stated that
this is unacceptable to him and emphasized that the City should not be viewed
as the location on July 4th where everyone comes to have a great time, police be
damned.
PUBLIC COMMENTS — None.
ADJOURNMENT — 6:00 p.m.
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The agenda for the Study Session was posted on August 21, 2002, at
2:30 p.m. on the City Hall Bulletin Board located outside of the City of Newport
Beach Administration Building.
City Clerk
Recording Secretary
Mayor
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CITY OF NEWPORT BEACH
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting
August 27, 2002 - 7:00 p.m. DRAFT INDEX
STUDY SESSION - 4:00 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION - 6:00 p.m.
« « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « ««
A. RECESSED AND RECONVENED AT 7:00 P.M. FOR REGULAR
MEETING
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor Ridgeway
Absent: Proctor
C. CLOSED SESSION REPORT - None.
D. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg.
E. INVOCATION - Doug Owen, Bishop of the Corona del Mar Ward,
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints.
F. PRESENTATIONS
Presentation by Mayor Ridgeway of Proclamation to Michael
Stephens, President and CEO of Hoag Memorial Hospital
Presbyterian, Honoring the 50th Anniversary of the Hospital.
Mr. Stevens stated that Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian was made
possible by the Presbyterian Churches of Orange County and the George Hoag
Family Foundation. He thanked the City for the recognition.
Presentation of Cultural Arts Grant Checks by City Arts Commission
Chairman Catherine Michaels and Arts Coordinator Jana Barbier.
Ms. Michaels also introduced Kathy Harrison and Lyn Belasco, City Arts
Commissioners in attendance at the meeting. Checks were presented to Ballet
Montmartre, Ballet Pacifica, Baroque Music Festival, City Arts Commission,
Festival Ballet Theatre, Keith Glassman and Dancers, Laguna Playhouse,
Music Rainbow, Newport Beach Film Festival, Newport Harbor Nautical
Museum, Newport Beach Sister Cities Association, Orange County Museum of
Art, Pacific Chorale, Pacific Symphony, Philharmonic Society of Orange
County, South Coast Repertory Theatre, Southland Opera and Stop -Gap.
Ms. Michaels announced that the last concert of the Concerts in the Parks 2002
series would be held on September 22, 2002, at Buffalo Hills Park.
State Recycling Award Presentation. General Services Director
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Niederhaus stated that the City began developing a recycling plan in 1990 to
meet the requirements of the California Recycling Law, AB939. He displayed
the plaque that the City received for achieving the 2000 50% goal, and
acknowledged the efforts of the Environmental Quality Affairs Committee
(EQAC), Bill Hamilton, Tony Wilson, the City's solid waste haulers, and CR &R,
Inc. Council Member Glover additionally acknowledged the efforts of
General Services Director Niederhaus.
Presentation of $121,900 Donation from the Newport Beach Public
Library Foundation by Tom Edwards, President of the Foundation.
Mr. Edwards thanked the many people who have helped the library system.
He presented a check in the amount of $40,000 that would be used for the
Mariner's Library Branch and another in the amount of $121,900 that would be
used for other programs, to Harry Hamilton of the Board of Library Trustees.
Mr. Hamilton thanked the Foundation for its generous contribution and stated
that private donations maintain the library system's many programs.
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):
Council Member Adams requested that oral status reports of the Ad
Hoc General Plan Update Committee (GPUC) and the Local Coastal
Program Certification Committee meetings be provided at the City
Council meetings, such as done for the Planning Commission meetings.
Council Member Adams stated that the condition of the public
restrooms in the City during the summer months needs to be improved.
He requested that staff look into the matter.
Council Member Adams stated that he recently read in a local
publication that the City would not be joining forces with neighboring
cities in attempting to address aerial advertising on the beaches. He
noted that it should have been a policy decision made by the City
Council and it wasn't. He additionally noted that the aerial advertisers
that spoke at previous City Council meetings have not kept their
promise to work with the City. He requested that the issue be
addressed.
Council Member Glover requested that Harbor Commission agendas
and minutes be provided to the City Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that he has received many inquiries
on the status of the undergrounding of utilities on Little Balboa Island.
He announced that the telephone poles no longer maintain hot wires,
but two homes have not been connected to the underground system. He
stated that he spoke with the Edison Company and a pole will be left in
place in front of these two homes. The remainder of the poles should be
removed soon after Labor Day.
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City Council Minutes
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I.
Council Member Heffernan requested that the policy for the advance
notice a council member is required to give when unable to attend a
City Council meeting be reviewed. He stated that this would insure
that meetings are scheduled only when a quorum is expected.
Council Member Heffernan announced that the results of the Airport
Working Group (AWG) audit should be available in mid - September.
Council Member Heffernan announced that the Police Department
provided a report on the 4�h of July events in the City at the Study
Session held earlier in the day. He stated that a committee will likely
be formed to insure that constructive steps are taken to reduce the
problems. He noted that the event is dangerous and has the potential
of becoming worse.
At the request of Mayor Ridgeway, Assistant City Manager Wood
provided an update of the efforts being made by the City and the Local
Coastal Program (LCP) Certification Committee. She stated that
studies and analyses are underway, and that staff has begun drafting
the first two chapters of the land use plan of the LCP. The LCP
Certification Committee has asked that this information also be shared
with the general plan committees.
CONSENT CALENDAR
READING OF MINUTESIORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
1. MINUTES OF THE ADJOURNED REGULAR AND REGULAR
MEETING OF AUGUST 13, 2002. Waive reading of subject minutes,
approve as written and order filed.
2. 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 ADOPTION
3. VEHICLE CODE ENFORCEMENT WITHIN JASMINE PARK.
Adopt Ordinance No. 2002 -15 authorizing application of California
Vehicle Code to private roads in the Jasmine Park Development.
4. IMPLEMENTATION OF 3 %Q50 RETIREMENT FOR POLICE
EMPLOYEES. Adopt Ordinance No. 2002.16 authorizing an
Amendment to the Contract Between the City and the Board of
Administration of the California Public Employees' Retirement System.
5. Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Adams.
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INDEX
Ord 2202 -15
Vehicle Code/
Jasmine Park (70)
Ord 2002 -16
C -563
Police Employees
Retirement (38/66)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS
6.
2002 -2003 SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER REPLACEMENT —
C -3534
AWARD OF CONTRACT (C- 3534). 1) Approve the plans and
BA -004
specifications; 2) award the contract (C -3534) to E.A. Mendoza of Irvine
2002 -2003
for the total bid price of $203,050 and authorize the Mayor and the City
Sidewalk, Curb
Clerk to execute the contract; 2) establish an amount of $20,000 to
& Gutter
cover the cost of testing and unforeseen work; and 3) authorize a
Replacement
budget amendment (BA -004) transferring $40,000 from the General
(38/40)
Services Concrete Maintenance Account No. 3130 -8239 to Account
No. 7013- C5100020.
7.
Item removed from the Consent Calendar by Council Member
Adams.
8.
MORNING CANYON CHANNEL — AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE
C -3517
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RIVERTECH,
Morning Canyon
INC. Approve Amendment No. 1 to the Professional Services
Channel
Agreement with Rivertech, Inc., of Laguna Hills, California, for $26,160
(38)
for supplemental tasks in conjunction with the Morning Canyon
Drainage Study and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the
agreement.
9.
CONTRACT FOR WORKERS COMPENSATION THIRD PARTY
C -3040
ADMINISTRATOR (TPA) SERVICES. Approve continuation of a
Workers
joint agreement to provide third party administration claims services
Compensation
for the self- insured workers' compensation programs of the cities of
Third Party
Newport Beach and Costa Mesa with Hazelrigg Risk Management
Administrator
Services, Inc. of Chino for the term September 1, 2002 through
(TPA) Services
August 31, 2005; and authorize the City Manager to execute the
(38)
professional services agreement.
10.
BALBOA VILLAGE IMPROVEMENTS PHASE 2 - AWARD OF
C -3527
CONTRACT (C- 3527).
BA -005
Balboa Village
Item removed from the agenda by Assistant City Attorney Clauson.
Improvements
She explained that the project has a lawsuit pending regarding the
Phase 2
removal of ficus trees in Balboa Village. She noted that the Judge on
(38/40)
the matter has requested clearer citations by the City so that he can
adequately review the documents. A hearing is scheduled on the
matter for September 16, 2002, and the City has been ordered to not
take any action on the ficus trees until a decision is made at that
hearing.
MISCELLANEOUS ACTIONS
11.
BUDGET AMENDMENT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS ($121,900)
BA -003
FROM THE NEWPORT BEACH PUBLIC LIBRARY
Library
FOUNDATION TO VARIOUS EXPENDITURE ACCOUNTS.
Foundation
Approve BA -003.
Donation (40/50)
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
C1
INDEX
12. FINAL TRACT MAP NO. 16292 - CANNERY LOFTS - REQUEST
Tract 16292
TO SUBDIVIDE AN EXISTING LOT CONTAINING
Cannery Lofts/
APPROXIMATELY 0.45 ACRES INTO SEVEN PARCELS OF
Request to
LAND IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE DEVELOPMENT OF A 7
Subdivide
UNIT COMMERCIAL/RESIDENTLAL MIXED USE PROJECT ON
(TRM 16292)
PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE SP -6 DISTRICT. Approve Final
Tract Map 16292.
Council Member Heffernan abstained from voting on this item.
13. Item removed from the agenda by a member of the audience.
522. COMMENTS ON DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL TO THE 1999
Orange County
STRATEGIC PLAN EIR FOR THE EFFLUENT PUMP STATION
Sanitation District
ANNEX AND COLLECTION SYSTEM ODOR AND CORROSION
Project EIR
CONTROL PROGRAM. Approve and direct staff to transmit
(54)
comments prepared by the Environmental Quality Affairs Committee.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg to approve the Consent Calendar,
except for those items removed (5, 7 and 13) and noting the removal of Item
No. 10 from the agenda and the abstention on Item No. 12.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Proctor
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
5. HOAG MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PRESBYTERIAN (PA2002 -038) -
Ord 2002 -17
ONE HOAG DRIVE - REQUEST TO AMEND THE HOAG
PA2002 -038
MEMORIAL HOSPITAL PRESBYTERIAN PLANNED
Hoag Memorial
COMMUNITY (PC -38) DEVELOPMENT CRITERIA AND
Hospital
DISTRICT REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO FLOOR AREAS
Presbyterian -
THAT APPLY TOWARDS THE ESTABLISHED MAXIMUM
One Hoag Drive/
DEVELOPMENT ALLOCATION. THE APPLICANT SEEKS TO
Planned
EXEMPT FLOOR AREAS THAT ARE: 1) USED TO HOUSE
Community
STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS AS A RESULT OF MANDATES BY
Development Text
OTHER GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES; AND 2) USED TO
Amendment
ENCLOSE THE ROOFTOP MECHANICAL LEVEL. BOTH OF
2002 -001
THESE AREAS ARE NOT REGULARLY OCCUPIED BY HUMAN
(68)
ACTIVITY (contd. from 7/9/02).
Council Member Adams noted that he did not support the motion at the
meeting of August 13, 2002, due to the unknown impacts of the action
on future buildings on the campus.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg to adopt Ordinance
No. 2002 -17 approving Planned Community Development Text
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
Amendment 2002.001.
Dolores Otting, Newport Beach resident, stated her concern for the
operation of the hospital, the care that is received by patients and the
service that is provided to the community. She requested that the City
Council address the issue of the emergency room operation and the
diversions to other facilities that take place.
Mayor Pro Tom Bromberg stated that he personally has received
excellent care from the hospital and knows of others who have also.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, Bromberg, Glover, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: Adams
Abstain: O'Neil
Absent: Proctor
ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY (OCTA)
AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT
NO. C -95 -985.
Council Member Adams stated that he disagrees with the inclusion of
the Jamboree Road widening, south of Bristol Street, in the OCTA
Capital Improvement Program (CIP). He stated that by approving the
recommended action, this inclusion is being supported. Council
Member Adams added that at the City Council meeting of
September 10, 2002, there would be a recommendation to enter into an
agreement with a traffic engineering firm to begin studying the
possibility of reducing Jamboree Road from an eight -lane arterial to an
arterial consistent with the status quo.
Per Council Member Glover's question, Public Works Director Badum
stated that a Jamboree Road flyover or grade separation is a project
that is expected to be considered in the future, but is not a part of the
seven-year OCTA CIP.
Council Member Adams added that the study that will be considered on
September 10, 2002, will actually look at the elimination of the two
grade separations and the flyover.
Council Member Glover stated that a flyover or grade separation will
not be supported by the public and has not been supported by prior City
Councils. Public Works Director Badum stated that it has been
considered as a future potential project, but as traffic numbers are
reviewed, it may be determined that it won't be necessary. City
Manager Bludau added that the study mentioned earlier by Council
Member Adams would provide some of the data needed to make the
determination. Per Council Member Glover's question, he additionally
noted that potential projects are identified for the purpose of
establishing traffic fees. Council Member Glover stated that the project
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INDEX
C -3051
OCTA Cooperative
Agreement
(38)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
is not supported and should not be a part of the plan.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that the study is expected to show that traffic
on Jamboree Road does not necessitate a flyover, a grade separation or
a widening of the roadway. City Manager Bludau noted that the study
would also include predictions on future traffic volumes.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg to approve Amendment No. 5
to Cooperative Agreement No. C -95 -985 between the OCTA and the
City of Newport Beach and authorize the Mayor and the City Clerk to
execute the Amendment.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: Glover, Adams
Abstain: None
Absent: Proctor
13. GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT INITIATION NO. 2002 -004
(PA2002 -134) — 129 AGATE AVENUE — A REQUEST TO
INITIATE A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND AN
AMENDMENT TO THE LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM TO
CHANGE THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FOR 3 SEPARATE
PARCELS FROM RETAIL & SERVICE COMMERCIAL TO TWO -
FAMILY RESIDENTIAL.
Jim Hildreth stated that the City makes more revenue from a
residential property than from a commercial property, but the matter of
who would be taking over the residential property under question
needs to be considered. He noted that the area is commercially zoned
and future occupants would need to know that businesses are nearby.
Mr. Hildreth stated that he thinks the City is intending to change other
commercial properties in the area to residential. He stated that the
property should remain commercially zoned because those who own
businesses have more respect for the residents than the rental property
owners do. Mr. Hildreth noted the current problems with Anne
Lemen's residential property being in close proximity to the Village
Inn, and expressed his disagreement with the recommended action.
Motion by Council Member O'Neil to approve General Plan
Amendment Initiation No. 2002 -004.
Mayor Pro Tern Bromberg stated that the property under consideration
is privately owned by a Balboa Island resident, is currently a parking
lot and is 85% surrounded by residential properties.
Assistant City Manager Wood noted that the recommended action
would only initiate the general plan amendment and zone change.
Surrounding property owners would be notified of future public
hearings before the Planning Commission and the City Council.
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INDEX
GPI 2002 -004
General Plan
Amendment/
129 Agate Avenue/
Local Coastal
Program
(45)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
The motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor
Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Proctor
K. PUBLIC COMMENTS
John Lightburn, Committee to Abolish Helicopter Noise, stated that
residents are split on the issue of helicopter noise, although there is no
opposition to having effective law enforcement services. He stated that
the issue is about how the services are provided. Mr. Lightburn stated
that the Committee is attempting to find out the actual costs of the
helicopter program and having it comply with the standards in place
for the John Wayne Airport. He stated that the Committee is not
seeking to eliminate the service, but sees a nuisance being created and
one that needs to be dealt with. He stated that the matter should also
be addressed during the general plan update process and by the City
Council.
Steve Alexander, Associate Director of Development for the South
Coast Repertory Theatre, thanked the City Council for the grant
presented earlier in the meeting and the City's continued support.
Roger McGonegal, 2714 Hilltop Drive, President of the Rotary Club of
Newport - Balboa, presented a card that contained the Four -Way Test, a
standard that guides the more than 1.2 million Rotarians around the
world in their daily lives. The Four -Way Test is a code of ethics,
encouraging honesty and fairness when dealing with people.
Additionally, Mr. McGonegal presented the City Council with a plaque
containing the Four -Way Test.
Jim Hildreth, The Grand Canal, noted a letter dated August 22, 2002,
to Development Engineer Hoffstadt from the resident at 120 The Grand
Canal. He requested that the letter be reviewed by the City Council.
He noted that there is no reason for a utility to disconnect a service
except for failure to pay the bill. He additionally noted that Pole
No. 404823 should remain in place for safety purposes since it has a
streetlight attached to it. On a different topic, Mr. Hildreth stated that
the City has failed to provide documents to him regarding the pier
permit at the southwest end of the Grand Canal and that he has
provided documents to the City requesting these. He stated that he has
received documents from the City that illustrate that the City does
have the documents that he is requesting. He requested that the City
Council address the issue of the City hiding documents.
Dolores Otting agreed with the comments made earlier by Council
Member Adams regarding the conditions of the public restrooms in the
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
City. She specifically cited the restrooms at the park on San Miguel
Drive. Additionally, Ms. Otting stated that the residents of Newport
Coast deserve to be made aware of how the slope maintenance in
Newport Coast will be handled.
Council Member Heffernan announced that the Newport Coast
Advisory Committee (NCAC) would be meeting on September 3, 2002.
He added that he would be meeting during the current week with the
City Manager, the Fire Chief and the Public Works Director on the
slope maintenance topic. He stated that the City is planning to present
the details of how the issues will be handled by the City to the NCAC at
the meeting in September.
Julie White, 2411 Vista Hogar, introduced herself as an applicant for
the Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission. She realized that the Ad
Hoc Appointments Committee had already reached their decision, but
she expressed her appreciation for their consideration.
Bud Grant, 310 Fernando Street, Balboa Arbor Society, stated that the
Society is pleased that the court has recognized that the ficus tree issue
has not received the kind of public hearing that it should have and that
a temporary restraining order has been issued. Mr. Grant stated that
the Society and the City agreed on a process by which three arborists
would analyze the situation, evaluate the trees and determine if there
was danger. He stated that the report issued stated that the trees
could be saved. Mr. Grant requested that the City and the Society
continue to work on the process.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that an agreement was not reached between
the City and the Society.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg additionally noted that the court did not rule
on the merits of the case. The court ruled on procedural aspects and
the case would be heard at a later time.
Assistant City Manager Wood further clarified that the agreement was
reached on a process if an agreement could be reached on the criteria to
be used for the evaluation of the trees. She stated that an agreement
on the criteria was not reached.
Linda Grant, 310 Fernando, expressed her appreciation for those who
have supported the Balboa Arbor Society. She stated that it's all about
saving the trees. She stated that the Society is only asking that the
City be reasonable and not remove the trees. She noted that the
Society is in favor of the Balboa Village project, but that it can be done
without removing the existing ficus trees. Ms. Grant stated that the
Society tried to work with the City, that an agreement was reached and
that they're only suing the City because they have to.
Lynn Miller, Balboa Peninsula resident, stated that the City has been
an absent and abusive guardian of the twenty -five trees on Main
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
Street. She stated that the trees are over fifty years old, have been
designated as special and protected trees, and the roots have had to
reach for water due to lack of care. Ms. Miller stated that the trees
have provided many benefits. She asked others to join the Society by
contacting Stop Polluting Our Newport (SPON) at 949 - 548 -6326.
L. ORAL REPORTS FROM CITY COUNCIL ON COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES
Council Member Heffernan announced that at the Study Session held
earlier in the day, the City Council reviewed drafts of a Council policy
dealing with permits issued by the City for telecommunication facilities
on public property and a right -of -way ordinance. He stated that the Ad
Hoc Telecommunications Committee would be working on both of these
issues at its future meetings.
Council Member Adams stated that the General Plan Update
Committee (GPUC) met the day before. He stated that they discussed
the methodology to use in conducting the detailed telephone survey
that would be done to provide community input. He stated that they
also received a presentation from the firm that has been hired to do the
traffic studies for the general plan update.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he met with President Bush the week
prior.
M. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA AND ORAL STATUS REPORT
14. PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA FOR AUGUST 22, 2002.
Planning Director Temple stated that the first item was continued to
September 5, 2002, at the request of the applicant. She stated that the
application for a new restaurant on Westcliff Drive was approved, with
modifications. A third item involved a variance for allowable floor area
of a residence in Corona del Mar, and was also approved.
Planning Director Temple stated that the fourth item was a request to
add two aspects to real estate signs, one that would add a single rider
sign and another to add a single brochure box. She stated that the
Planning Commission denied the amendment to the City's sign
regulations.
Mayor Ridgeway called up the fourth item at the request of the real
estate industry.
Council Member Glover confirmed with Planning Director Temple that
plastic boxes on real estate signs are not allowed. Planning Director
Temple explained that the boxes put the signs beyond the square
inches allowed in the City's current sign code, but the real estate
industry feels that they're standard in the industry and are a
convenience to their customers. Council Member Glover additionally
confirmed that riders are not allowed if they put the sign beyond the
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
allowable square inches.
Per Council Member Glover's questions, Planning Director Temple
stated that the restaurant on Westcliff would be going in just west of
the Union Bank property.
N. PUBLIC HEARINGS
15. EZ LUBE (PA2002 -034) — 3600 EAST COAST HIGHWAY —
PA2002 -034
APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION TO
EZ Lube -
DENY A REQUEST TO CONSTRUCT AN AUTOMOBILE
3600 East Coast
LUBRICATION FACILITY CONSISTING OF A 2,641 SQUARE
Highway
FOOT BUILDING WITH TWO SERVICE BAYS LOCATED IN
(68)
CORONA DEL MAR. THE APPLICATION INCLUDES A
REQUEST TO WAIVE THREE OF THE TEN SPACE OFF -
STREET PARKING REQUIREMENT (contd. from 6/25/02).
City Manager Bludau stated that the applicant has requested that the
item be continued to a City Council meeting in January 2003.
Council Member Adams announced that he would be recusing himself
from voting on the item due to the possibility that his company may
have a contract with EZ Lube.
Ken Genser, Moss & Associates, representing the applicant, requested
that the continuance be approved to allow them the time to conduct a
public education process.
Council Member O'Neil noted that there was already a 60 -day
continuance approved, and asked if any progress had been made during
that period. Mr. Genser stated that they did firm up their site control.
Council Member O'Neil stated that he had previously told Mr. Genser
that he hadn't heard of any support in the community for the project
and recommended that Mr. Genser retain a consultant to try to obtain
some support. Mr. Genser stated that the consultants told him there
wasn't sufficient time to do the work. Council Member O'Neil stated
his support for Mr. Genser and his intentions, but that it would only be
fair to consider the item at the current meeting. Mr. Genser stated that
he understood from staff that continuances are fairly routine, so he
didn't bring in the support he might have if he'd thought the item
would be discussed at the current meeting.
Motion by Council Member O'Neil to deny the request for a
continuance.
Council Member O'Neil stated that he didn't feel that the support in the
community existed and that additional time wouldn't change that.
Mr. Genser stated that if the item were to be denied at the current
meeting and EZ Lube reapplied, it would be unfair to the public since it
would result in an additional public hearing. He felt that one public
hearing at a later date would allow for more meaningful input from the
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City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
public.
INDEX
Council Member Glover stated that Jiffy Lube installed a similar
facility in her district after extensive negotiations. She stated that
after seeing a Jiffy Lube in another state, she realized that the City
could have been even stricter with Jiffy Lube in regard to its signage.
She recommended that EZ Lube be allowed only one sign if the project
is approved. Council Member Glover additionally noted that there isn't
a market for automobile lubrication facilities in Newport Beach, since
most people take their cars to their dealers. She stated that Jiffy Lube
has already requested more signs to help increase their business. She
agreed with Council Member O'Neil that more time would probably not
increase the support in the community for the project. Mr. Genser
stated that it is fairer for the public to become informed and EZ Lube
would like a fair opportunity to present their project.
Council Member O'Neil stated that the redevelopment of the Corona
del Mar village is proceeding and the vacant lot where EZ Lube wants
to install its facility would remain vacant during a continuance.
Mr. Genser stated that if the project is not approved, the lot would
possibly remain vacant for close to two years.
Mike Dobson, President and owner of EZ Lube, stated that he didn't
feel that the project should be looked at negatively because a
continuance had been requested. He asked that the project be looked at
on its own merits. He stated that a redesign of the building has been
done, that the redevelopment project has been taken into consideration,
and that the education process will take some time. Mr. Dobson stated
that he did not ask for those that support the project to be in
attendance at the current meeting because he understood that a
continuance would be approved. He added, however, that due to the
negativity being created by the continuance request, he felt that it
might be more beneficial to present the project at the current meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg understood the applicant's expectation that
the item might be continued, was encouraged to hear that he could
present the project at the current meeting, but that it has already been
continued once. He asked if the maker of the motion could amend his
motion to continue the item for two weeks. Mr. Dobson stated that he
could work with a thirty -day continuance.
Council Member O'Neil stated that he didn't feel that the applicant
could find support for the project, but was willing to give him some time
to attempt to do so.
Council Member O'Neil amended his motion to continue the item
to September 24, 2002.
Val Skoro, Corona del Mar resident, stated that he hasn't found one
resident that is in support of the project.
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August 27, 2002
Thaddeus Benshoof, 425 -A Marigold Avenue, stated that he did not
want an EZ Lube in Corona del Mar.
Paul Glowienke, 427 Hazel Drive, stated that every resident he's
spoken with is opposed to an EZ Lube in Corona del Mar.
Elizabeth Torelli, 516 Hazel Drive, stated her opposition to an EZ Lube
in Corona del Mar and stated that everyone else feels the same way.
She encouraged the City Council to deny the appeal.
Hearing no further testimony, Mayor Ridgeway closed the public
hearing.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that parking is always an issue and the City
Council will not waive any parking requirements.
The amended motion carried by the following roll call vote
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: Adams
Absent: Proctor
16. BUTLER RESIDENCE (PA2002 -037) — 911 W. BAY AVENUE —
"PEAL OF THE DECISION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION TO UPHOLD THE DECISION OF
THE MODIFICATIONS COMMITTEE'S APPROVAL OF
MODIFICATION PERMIT NO. 2002 -018.
City Manager Bludau stated that a packet of information was received
from the appellant the day prior and there wasn't enough time for staff
to address the issues raised. He stated that it would be up to the City
Council to determine if the item should be continued. Assistant City
Attorney Clauson stated that the options before the City Council
include not considering the new documentation received in making the
decision at the current meeting, giving the appellant the opportunity to
present the information in his testimony or continuing the item.
Motion by Mavor Pro Tern Bromberg to continue the item to
September 10, 2002.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg stated that this would allow staff the
opportunity to review and respond to the issues. Without all of the
information, it would be difficult for the City Council to reach a
decision.
Mayor Ridgeway opened the public hearing.
Council Member O'Neil asked if the appellant would agree to a
continuation. Lawrence Davidson, attorney for the appellant, stated
that he would need to know what the administrative procedures would
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INDEX
PA2002 -037
Modification
Permit
No. 2002.018/
Butler Residence —
911 W. Bay
Avenue
(68)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
be and if ground rules would be established. Mr. Davidson stated that
he would be in support of applying the Administrative Procedures Act,
which would provide for more time to respond, declare who has the
burden of proof and clarify some of the issues. He stated that he could
agree to a continuance if an agreement could be reached on the
procedural framework. Council Member O'Neil stated that the
procedure for a continuance is simply that the applicant presents his
testimony at a future meeting and all of the information is taken into
consideration by the City Council.
Council Member Glover stated that the item is a land use issue, not a
legal issue, and a process is already in place.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that the appellant can either agree to a
continuance or not.
Per Council Member Adams' question about the documentation
received the day prior, Assistant City Attorney Clauson stated that the
provisions for the appeal are that the City Council considers all of the
information that was submitted to the Planning Commission, and any
testimony provided at the hearing before the City Council. She stated
that it doesn't require the City Council to consider any new written
documentation. Assistant City Attorney Clauson added that the
Administrative Procedures Act does not apply to the City.
Council Member O'Neil agreed with a continuance to allow time to
review the new information, but asked if the City Council could
continue the item without the appellant's consent. Assistant City
Attorney Clauson stated that it would be better to have their consent.
Jennifer Friend, attorney for the appellant, stated that the staff report
differs on the way in which the appeal hearing should be conducted and
that this needs to be clarified. She explained that the appellant has
already completed 85% of the project as originally approved and
permitted. She stated it would be difficult for there to be a change
made to the decision on the original modification permit. Ms. Friend
stated that they do want the City Council to have all of the information
before making their decision, but that guidelines need to be established
as to what the City Council is actually deciding on.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he is prepared to make the land use
decision at the current meeting, and noted that it is not a difficult issue
to understand. Mr. Davidson stated that their concern is that staff has
not adequately defined the framework for what is being heard. He
stated that he could agree to a continuance if the City Council believed
it would assist them in understanding the facts of the case.
Jim Hildreth, Grand Canal resident, noted that it was mentioned
earlier that several attorneys sit on the City Council, but he stated that
they are actually lawyers.
Council Member Heffernan asked for a clarification on what
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INDEX
documentation the City Council would consider when making its
decision at the continued hearing. Assistant City Attorney Clauson
suggested that the City Council provide the appellant with a deadline
for when any new material must be received by the City in order for it
to be considered. Council Member Heffernan suggested that there be
no requirement to consider any new information received. Assistant
City Attorney Clauson stated that the motion could include this
stipulation. Mr. Davidson stated that it hasn't been determined who
has the burden of proof and suggested that a briefing schedule be
agreed on.
Mayor Ridgeway suggested that a continuance not be approved.
Council Member Glover suggested that the matter be heard at the
current meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg withdrew his motion.
Planning Director Temple stated that the modification permit relieved
the applicant of the conditions of approval of a previously approved
modification, which allowed the construction of a patio cover into the
required front yard setback. As part of the modification permit, there
was a specific condition that required an additional modification if the
rail were to be relocated. Planning Director Temple stated that the
Modifications Committee required a portion of the construction to be
moved back to address privacy and view obstruction concerns of an
adjoining property owner. The Planning Commission upheld the
Modifications Committee's decision. She further explained that the
first modification received by the applicant was not appealed. A
subsequent modification request regarding the width of the patio cover
was denied and was also not appealed. She stated that a decision made
by her regarding the original plan's substantial conformance with the
original modification was appealed and the Planning Director's decision
was upheld.
Mayor Ridgeway confirmed with Planning Director Temple that the
appeal was related to the patio cover, and not to the railing. Further,
the easterly portion was not allowed to go all the way to the front yard
setback line, and was not appealed. Mayor Ridgeway further confirmed
that the appeal before the City Council is in regard to a portion of the
railing. Planning Director Temple further clarified that the
Modifications Committee approved a portion of the railing to move into
the front yard setback, but not to the extent that the applicant desired.
Assistant City Manager Wood also added that the Modifications
Committee's decision, which was upheld by the Planning Commission,
included a condition that a part of the originally approved patio cover
be removed. She stated that staff is not recommending that this
condition be required, and that references to the patio cover being
revised be eliminated from the findings and conditions.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he has been at the site and met the
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applicant.
INDEX
Assistant City Attorney Clausen stated that the City Council can look
at what was approved by the Modifications Committee and consider
whether they want to uphold, modify or deny that decision. She stated
that the City Council is limited to the materials provided to the
Planning Commission when making its decision.
Mr. Davidson stated that the additional information provided the day
prior thoroughly outlines the appellant's position and the relevant
points, and contains no new information. He stated that the permit
granted on May 3, 2000, was granted unconditionally, and that any
conditions were added later. Mr. Davidson stated that the appellant
received a building permit, and has completed the structure permitted.
He stated that the structure also complies with the determinations
made by the Planning Commission in July 2001 regarding the deck
extension into the side yard setback. Mr. Davidson stated that there
are conflicts in the findings made and the letters submitted. He
additionally noted that the letters were submitted improperly and
untimely. In regard to the staff recommendation presented by
Assistant City Manager Wood, Mr. Davidson confirmed that this would
mean that the removal of the decking would not be a requirement.
Council Member Adams stated that the original modification permit did
have conditions attached to it, and confirmed that the applicant did not
appeal this permit. Mr. Davidson stated that the permit was not
appealed because Condition No. 3 was not disclosed to the applicant
until after the permit was granted. He explained that subsequent
letters differed from the permit, which was granted orally at the public
hearing. Assistant City Attorney Clausen stated that conditions are
done verbally at Modifications Committee meetings, and put into
written format later. She stated that the reason to appeal and exhaust
administrative remedies at the time the permit is issued is so that a
better evaluation can occur. She stated that, at this time, staff can only
rely on the written permit.
Per questions of Council Member Adams and Mayor Ridgeway,
Planning Director Temple stated that the Modifications Committee
approved the patio cover extension in 2000, but not for the full width
across the property. When the City found out that the patio cover did
extend across to both setback lines, the applicant was informed that he
would need another modification, which was applied for and denied.
Planning Director Temple stated that, at that time, the applicant could
have appealed the decision of the Modifications Committee, which
didn't allow the full width of the patio cover. The applicant, however,
appealed the Planning Director's determination that the original set of
plans were not consistent with the original modification. This appeal
was denied by the Planning Commission. Planning Director Temple
stated that the set of plans were issued in error by the City. She noted,
however, that the plans did not show the deck railing moving out to the
edge of the patio. It showed the railing conforming within the setbacks.
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INDEX
Mayor Ridgeway reiterated that at no time was the deck railing ever
approved to go out to the edge.
Per Council Member Adams' question, Planning Director Temple stated
that the Modifications Committee is an administrative body that holds
legally noticed public hearings for certain applications, as provided by
the code.
Michael Clary, 909 W. Bay Avenue, next -door neighbor of Mr. Butler,
stated that his home, privacy and view corridor are the most affected by
Mr. Butler's unauthorized deck extension into the front yard setback.
He stated that he is strongly opposed to the eastern half of the deck.
Mr. Clary stated that on May 8, 2002, the Modifications Committee
authorized Mr. Butler to keep the western half of the deck extension,
but to remove the railing, deck material and enclosed electrical fixtures
on the eastern half. He stated that the decision is a generous one, but
was appealed by Mr. Butler to the Planning Commission. On July 18,
2002, the Planning Commission upheld the decision of the
Modifications Committee. Mr. Clary stated that the full deck extension
was denied in the original permit and the compromise gives Mr. Butler
about 60% of the unauthorized deck extension, while still protecting the
neighbors. Mr. Clary stated that if Mr. Butler couldn't be satisfied with
this, that Mr. Clary would be in favor of denying the entire decking.
Dolores Otting stated that the meetings of the Modifications Committee
are recorded and notes are taken. Planning Director Temple stated
that the taping of meetings began only about a year ago.
Mr. Davidson stated that the applicant didn't appeal the decision of the
Modifications Committee because he received building permits that
were approved as being consistent with the original modification
permit. Mr. Butler didn't know anything was wrong, since the permits
were consistent with the unconditional approval he received verbally at
the meeting. The issues didn't arise until after Mr. Butler's structure
was 85% complete. Mr. Davidson added that Mr. Butler had a meeting
with a Planning Department staff member prior to his original
application to find out about the process. At that meeting, the staff
member wrote "deck extension/patio cover" in her notes, so Mr. Butler
thought that's what he was applying for. In closing, Mr. Davidson
stated that there is also a photograph available that proves that there
is no impact to the public from the structure.
Hearing no further testimony, Mayor Ridgeway closed the public
hearing.
Motion by Council Member Adams to deny the requested
Modification Permit based on a finding that there is no property right
to encroach within the established setbacks for the zoning district
where the property is located, that approval of the request will
encourage further requests to extend second floor patios into the
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August 27, 2002
established setbacks, and that erosion of the established setback along
Bay Avenue will be detrimental and injurious to property
improvements in the neighborhood generally, and Bay Avenue
specifically; and to require that the applicant return the deck railing
back to its originally authorized location in accordance with the original
modification permit.
Substitute Motion by Mayor Ridgeway to consider the reduced
deck approved by the Modifications Committee and affirmed by the
Planning Commission as a reasonable compromise; to not require
revisions to the previously approved patio cover; to amend the findings
and conditions of the approval by eliminating all references to the patio
cover being revised; to allow the westerly side to remain as is and to
require the appellant to move the easterly side of the railing back to its
original location.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that he has been to the site and that
Mr. Clary's request is reasonable. He noted that he is not rewarding
Mr. Butler, that Mr. Butler did have a permit, but it never allowed for
the railing.
The substitute motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes:
O'Neil, Bromberg, Mayor Ridgeway
Noes:
Glover, Adams
Abstain:
Heffernan
Absent:
Proctor
O. CONTINUED BUSINESS
17. UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE PARKS, BEACHES &
RECREATION COMMISSION AND THE PLANNING
COMMISSION.
Deputy City Clerk Fisher announced the nominations of the Ad Hoc
Appointments Committee and their recommendation to fill the vacancy
on the Parks, Beaches & Recreation Commission to June 30, 2007,
which is consistent with Council Policy A -2, Board & Commission
Appointments, that allows for the unexpired term plus one full term of
four years.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg to confirm the nominations of
William Garrett and Christopher Sarris to fill the unscheduled vacancy
as a result of the resignation of Stuart Macfarland from the Parks,
Beaches & Recreation Commission for the term ending June 30, 2007;
confirm the nominations of Jeff Cole and Michael Toerge to fill the
unscheduled vacancy as a result of the resignation of Mike Kranzley
from the Planning Commission for the term ending June 30, 2005; and
schedule the appointments to be made on September 10, 2002.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
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Parks, Beaches &
Recreation
Commission and
Planning
Commission
Vacancies
(24)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
fj
Ayes:
Heffernan,
Ridgeway
Noes:
None
Abstain:
None
Absent:
Proctor
O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor
18. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZING A
CONSULTANT STUDY REGARDING THE FEASIBILITY OF
CITY PURCHASE OR LEASE OF MARINER'S MILE PROPERTY
TO ENSURE MARINE LAND USES.
Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg to authorize a feasibility
study, appropriate $5,000 from unappropriated revenues and direct the
City Manager to amend the City's agreement with Applied
Development Economics.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor
Ridgeway
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Proctor
19. DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATE FOR LEAGUE OF
CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE — OCTOBER 2 -
5, 2002 IN LONG BEACH.
It was determined that an elected official needed to be appointed by
September 6, 2002. Not readily finding anyone on the City Council who
would be attending the conference, Mayor Ridgeway postponed the
decision of the appointment to later during the current meeting.
20. UNSCHEDULED VACANCY ON THE CITY ARTS COMMISSION
AND APPOINTMENT BY MAYOR OF AN AD -HOC
APPOINTMENTS COMMITTEE.
Motion by Mayor Ridgeway to accept the resignation of Jeffrey
Gould from the City Arts Commission effective August 16, 2002 (term
expires June 30, 2005); direct the City Clerk to advertise the vacancy
pursuant to Council Policy A -2; and appoint Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg
and Council Members Adams and Heffernan to serve on the Ad Hoc
Appointments Committee.
The motion carried by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Heffernan, O'Neil, Bromberg, Glover, Adams, Mayor
Ridgeway
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INDEX
Mariner's Mile
Property/Marine
Land Uses
(51)
League of
California Cities
(61)
Arts Commission
Vacancy /Ad Hoc
Appointments
Committee
(24)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
Noes: None
Abstain: None
Absent: Proctor
21. PRESENTATION BY CABLE CONSULTANT SUE BUSKE AND
DOCUMENTATION OF PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING
BOTH ADELPHIA AND COX CABLE TV COMPANIES SERVING
RESPECTIVE PARTS OF THE CITY.
Public Information Officer Jackson stated that cable TV franchise
agreements for both Adelphia and Cox expired January 27, 2002. The
agreements were extended for one year to allow time to conduct a
community needs assessment as it pertains to cable.
Council Member Heffernan requested that the presentation include
what the City can and cannot do, what the options are, and how the
process is subject to federal regulations.
Sue Buske, President of the Buske Group, a consulting firm that works
with local governments to assist them with the various procedures that
they have to adhere to when dealing with their local cable companies,
stated that both Adelphia and Cox have requested that their franchises
be renewed. She stated that the City must use the formal procedures
as laid out under Section 626 of the Cable Act, and that this requires
the City to conduct a needs assessment process to gather community
input.
Ms. Buske stated that cable TV franchise agreements are nonexclusive
contracts. She stated that they have generally been 15 years long in
the past, but that recent franchises have been 8 to 10 years. Ms. Buske
noted that the renewal process is critical in determining what future
services the subscribers will receive. She additionally noted that the
City has approximately 27,000 cable TV subscribers, with about two -
thirds of them being serviced by Adelphia and about one -third by Cox.
Ms. Buske stated that the needs assessment process includes a
telephone survey, focus groups, the current meeting, gathering and
reviewing planning documents of various organizations within the
community, analyzing all of the data and preparing two reports.
Ms. Buske stated that what has been heard in general and broad terms
so far has included frustration over high rates, frustration over
Adelphia's high -speed internet service, confusion over the choice of
cable providers and an interest in community -based programming. She
provided some specific observations made from this information.
Ms. Buske stated that the current meeting provides an additional
opportunity for those in the community who wish to express their
opinions to do so, to allow the City Council to hear public input directly
and to allow those watching the meeting at home to learn more about
the process.
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INDEX
Adelphia & Cox
Cable TV
Companies
(42)
City of Newport Beach
City Council Minutes
August 27, 2002
INDEX
Ms. Buske noted that it is important to understand that the authority
of local government to deal with cable is not unilateral, but is a mix
between federal, state and local law. Regarding her previous comment
that the franchise agreements are nonexclusive, Ms. Buske explained
that this means that any cable TV service provider can come in during
the term of an existing franchise and offer to compete. She stated that
the current franchises were granted in 1991 and the incredible change
in technology during that time should be considered when preparing
the renewals, since many services may not have been envisioned at the
time the 1991 agreements were granted. She stated that it is rare for a
City to deny a cable TV company's request for renewal, but it does
occur. Ms. Buske further explained that the cable TV companies
actually own the wires that run in the public right -of -way. This needs
to be considered when granting additional franchises, since competition
should be encouraged but the public right -of -way should also be
protected. Ms. Buske stated that cable TV franchise agreements are
primarily landlord/tenant relationships.
In closing, Ms. Buske stated that the next steps that need to be done to
complete the needs assessment process include finishing the focus
group meetings, receiving and reviewing public input at the current
meeting, gathering and analyzing additional long -range strategic
documents, finishing data input and analysis, and preparing the overall
needs assessment report.
Mayor Ridgeway asked for a clarification on what the cable TV
companies own as far as the wires. Ms. Buske explained that they
always own the wires, but ownership of the conduit varies among cities
depending upon pole location requirements. Noting the high demand
for local programming, Mayor Ridgeway asked if the cable TV
companies could be required to provide local programming to satellite
outlets. Ms. Buske explained that local governments are not
authorized to require cable TV companies to become common carriers.
She further explained that telephone companies are common carriers
and regulated under Title 2 of the Communications Act, while cable TV
companies are not common carriers and are regulated under Title 6.
She stated that there has been lobbying and debate over the issue.
Mayor Ridgeway stated that the City still has rights through the
encroachment agreement, but Ms. Buske pointed out that the City's
encroachment agreement and franchise agreements are quite different.
Council Member O'Neil asked what capital investment would be
required if a new cable TV company wanted to come into the City and
compete against Adelphia and Cox. Ms. Buske stated that it would be a
great investment, but it has been done.
Mayor Pro Tem Bromberg asked how desirable Newport Beach is as a
customer. Ms. Buske stated that the City's cable subscriber level is
high and above the national average of about 70 %, but there are a few
construction issues due to the City's geography. She additionally noted,
however, that the City's subscribers also take advantage of a variety of
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INDEX
services provided through the cable networks.
Council Member Glover stated that she would prefer for all citizens to
have the choice between Adelphia and Cox. She stated that it would
increase customer satisfaction, although she realizes that it would tear
up the streets. Per Council Member Glover's question, Ms. Buske
stated that the provision of service in the commercial areas will be
looked at through the renewal and negotiation process. Council
Member Glover stated that it is needed in Mariner's Mile and in some
areas near the airport.
Council Member Heffernan asked for a report on the fees that the City
receives and what it is based upon. Ms. Buske stated federal law caps
the franchise fee at 5% of gross revenues. She noted that gross
revenues are defined in the franchise agreement and subject to
regulations. Assistant City Manager Kiff stated that the City's
preliminary budget for fiscal year 2002 -03 estimates $1.8 million in
franchise fees, with about 80% of this coming from cable TV franchises.
Mayor Ridgeway noted that there is a cost to the City in maintaining
the streets.
Marce Almaraz, Regional Commissioner of the American Youth Soccer
Organization (AYSO), requested that the City Council require
additional coverage by the cable TV companies of the youth events
throughout the City. He specifically noted the AYSO Championship
Day on November 24, 2002.
Jim Hildreth, The Grand Canal, stated that Cox is located in San
Diego, requiring a long - distance telephone call to reach them. He
stated that a renewal should assure that they are less difficult to
contact. He agreed that more community events should be shown. In
closing, he stated that it should be determined who the carrier for the
City will be since Adelphia filed for bankruptcy.
Assistant City Manager Kiff stated that Cox has an office in Rancho
Santa Margarita, servicing Southern Orange County and Newport
Beach. City Manager Bludau further clarified that Cox isn't
necessarily taking over Adelphia.
Laura Dietz, 325 Cameo Shores Road, asked for a report on the makeup
of the focus groups that were discussed earlier. Ms. Buske stated that
the focus groups were advertised and open to the general public. She
stated that they were organized into interest areas and provided a cross
section of the community.
Dolores Otting stated that she attended one of the focus group meetings
and noted that you can always get the results you want by slanting
things. She specifically cited the example of the van that would be
needed to tape the various sporting activities, but no one wants to pay
more for their service to fund such an addition. She requested that the
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INDEX
City look into discounts for seniors and services at nursing homes.
Ms. Otting additionally noted that the City Council meetings occur on
the same nights as the Newport -Mesa Unified School District, and
something needs to be done so that both meetings can be shown on Cox.
Lastly, she requested that the audio of the City Council be improved.
Mayor Ridgeway asked if the cable TV companies are required to set
aside a certain amount of time for local programming. Ms. Buske
stated that there are no federal requirements, but local governments
can negotiate those requirements through their franchise agreements.
Phil Arbena, Government Affairs Manager for Adelphia
Communications, assured the City that although they are in
bankruptcy, they are restructuring and will provide a complete report
to the bankruptcy court in December 2002. He stated that there is no
danger of Adelphia customers losing their service. He added that
Adelphia has historically adjusted their rates once per year and that
this year was no different.
Assistant City Manager Kiff acknowledged Adelphia and Cox for their
responsiveness in resolving customer service complaints received by the
City over the last several months.
Council Member Heffernan requested that the next steps in the process
be outlined. Assistant City Manager Kiff stated that the franchise
agreements have been extended to January 1, 2003, but the City will
most likely request a second extension. He stated that once the needs
assessment has been completed, the City will begin negotiations with
Adelphia and Cox. He stated that two proposed ordinances will be
presented to the City Council in January or February, one for each of
the franchise agreements. Per Council Member Heffernan's question
about the need for a second extension, Assistant City Manager Mff
explained that the community needs assessment process is very specific
about the kinds of input needed and it is taking longer than originally
expected.
19. DESIGNATION OF VOTING DELEGATE FOR LEAGUE OF
CALIFORNIA CITIES ANNUAL CONFERENCE — OCTOBER 2 -
5, 2002 IN LONG BEACH.
Council Member Adams confirmed that he would be able to attend the
League of California Cities Annual Conference. By acclamation,
Council Member Adams was designated as the City's Voting Delegate
for the Conference.
Q. MOTION FOR RECONSIDERATION — None.
R. ADJOURNMENT — at 10:30 p.m. in memory of Philip Maurer.
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August 27, 2002
The agenda for the Regular Meeting was posted on August 21, 2002, at
2:30 p.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 August 23, 2002, at 3:00 p.m. on the City Hall
Bulletin Board located outside of the City of Newport Beach Administration
Building.
City Clerk
Recording Secretary
Mayor
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INDEX