HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/15/2005 - City CouncilREGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF COSTA MESA
MARCH 15, 2005
The City Council of the City of Costa Mesa, California, met in
regular session March 15, 2005, at 5:00 p.m., in the Council
Chambers of City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. The meeting
was called to order by the Mayor.
ROLL CALL Council Members Present: Mayor Allan Mansoor
Mayor Pro Tem Gary Monahan
Council Member Eric Bever
Council Member Linda Dixon
Council Member Katrina Foley
Council Members Absent:
Officials Present:
None
City Manager Allan Roeder
City Attorney Kimberly Hall
Barlow
Development Services Director
Donald Lamm
Public Services Director William
Morris
Deputy City Clerk Julie Folcik
REQUEST FOR The City Attorney presented the following requests for closed
CLOSED SESSION session:
People v. Fishetti, Request for Rehearing by Council Member Foley of the City
Case No. CH46167PE Council's February 22, 2005, decision regarding the following:
Pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9 of the California
Government Code, a closed session has been scheduled for the
City Council to confer with legal counsel, Kimberly Hall Barlow,
City Attorney, regarding existing litigation (one case): People v.
Fishetti, Case No. CM46167PE.
Public Employment: Request for Rehearing by Council Member Foley of the City
Sr. Deputy City Council's February 22, 2005, decision regarding the following:
Attorney and Paralegal Pursuant to subdivision (b) (1) of Section 54957 of the California
Government Code, a closed session has been scheduled for the
City Council to confer with the City's representative, Steve
Mandoki, Director of Administrative Services, regarding public
employment. Title: Sr. Deputy City Attorney and Paralegal.
PUBLIC COMMENT There were no speakers under Public Comment.
Council Member Foley proposed that City Council members attend
the Butterfly Project unveiling event, being .held in the lobby of City
Hall at 5:00 p.m. this date -prior-to--holding the closed session.
Mayor Mansoor thought that City Council matters took precedence.
MOTION/Approved A motion was made by `-Mayor Nqp1por, seconded by Council
Adjournment to Closed Member Bever, and carried 471,-Oouncil_Member Foley voting no,
Session to approve immediate adjou,rnment=to closed --session.
ADJOURNMENT TO At 5:10 p.m., Mayor Mansoor adjourned the City Council meeting
CLOSED SESSION to a closed session in first floor. Conference Room B to discuss the
items previously announced by the City Attorney.
1
1
1
MEETING Mayor Mansoor reconvened the Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.,
RECONVENED followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by Mayor
Monahan, and a moment of solemn expression led by Frank
Villegas, Harbor Christian Fellowship.
ROLL CALL Council Members Present: Mayor Allan Mansoor
Mayor Pro Tem Gary Monahan
Council Member Eric Bever
Council Member Linda Dixon
Council Member Katrina Foley
Council Members Absent: None
Officials Present: City Manager Allan Roeder
City Attorney Kimberly Hall
Barlow
Development Services Director
Donald Lamm
Public Services Director William
Morris
Fire Chief Jim Ellis
Deputy Fire Chief Gregg Steward
Police Chief John Hensley
Police Lieutenant Tom Curtis
Finance Director Marc Puckett
Recreation Manager Jana
Ransom
Principal Planner Kim Brandt
Management Analyst Hilda
Veturis
Deputy City Clerk Julie Folcik
CLOSED SESSION The City Attorney announced that the following action had been
REPORT taken during closed session:
MOTION/Denied Regarding the Request for Rehearing by Council Member Foley
Rehearing Re People of the City Council's February 22, 2005, decision regarding
v. Fishetti, Case No. existing litigation (one case): People v. Fishetti, Case No.
CH46167PE CM46167PE, by a vote of 5-0, the Request for Rehearing was
denied.
MOTION/Denied Regarding the Request for Rehearing by Council Member Foley
Rehearing Re Public of the City Council's February 22, 2005, decision regarding
Employment: Sr. public employment. Title: Sr. Deputy City Attorney and
Deputy City Attorney Paralegal, by a vote of 3-2, Council Member Dixon and Council
and Paralegal Member Foley voting no, the Request for Rehearing was
denied.
PRESENTATION Mayor Mansoor congratulated Mary Fewel and Karen Schell on
Mayor's Award receiving the Mayor's Award for March, 2005. He commended
them for assisting the Police Department by reporting someone
painting a wall with graffiti, and aiding the investigation by providing
a detailed statement and positive identification of the individual.
PRESENTATION Mayor Mansoor congratulated Bobby Young, Accounting
Employee of the Month Supervisor, Finance Department, on being named Employee of the
Month for March, 2005. Bobby was recognized for directing the
preparation of the City's Financial Report without the assistance of
"outside" auditing firms. This in-house preparation saved money
for the City and underscored Bobby's ability and financial
knowledge.
PUBLIC COMMENT John Miner, Costa Mesa, addressed the problem of vehicles which
Broadway Traffic speed along Broadway, stating that a speeding vehicle incident
Issues had recently resulted in a traffic fatality. He asked Council to
discuss this issue at a study session. The City Manager
acknowledged that he had received correspondence regarding the
fatality from several Broadway residents, and reported that the
Transportation Services Division is investigating placement of a
stop sign at Westminster Avenue and Broadway. Council Member
Dixon encouraged discussion of this item at a regular City Council
study session in order to review "traffic calming" procedures and
policies which had previously been presented in connection with
the East Side Traffic Study. Council Member Foley suggested that
a "Residential Safety Task Force" be created to confront traffic
issues in several neighborhoods, and asked Council Member
Dixon to participate.
John Blitz, Costa Mesa, reported that cars travel an average of 45
miles per hour on Broadway between Fullerton and Orange
Avenues, and asked that the matter be addressed promptly.
A resident named Warner suggested installing speed bumps to
remedy the speeding issue on Broadway.
Sid Soffer Brian Evans, Newport Beach, reiterated questions in connection
with a lawsuit involving former Costa Mesa resident Sid Soffer.
Newport Beach Junior Mark Buchanan, Costa Mesa, commented that vacancies in the
Lifeguard Program Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Program had been filled, and
participation was now closed to everyone except Newport Beach
residents. He advised that his two sons were disappointed
because they had worked hard to qualify, and asked if there might
be an "accommodation" made for the children of Costa Mesa
residents. The City Manager indicated that there have been brief
conversations with the City of Newport Beach Recreation
Department who indicated that they have reached their capacity for
this session. Council Member Foley asked that the Costa Mesa
Recreation staff further investigate the Lifeguard Program, and
proposed initiating a joint program with Newport Beach. Mayor Pro
Tem Monahan stated that the tryouts for the cities of Laguna
Beach and Huntington Beach Lifeguard Programs had not yet
been conducted.
Costa Mesa Historical Terry Shaw, Costa Mesa, extended an invitation to the Costa Mesa
Society Historical Society meeting to be held Wednesday, March 16, 2005,
at 7:30 p.m., in the building next to the Neighborhood Community
Center, 1845 Park Avenue. He added that the speaker would be
former Orange Coast College History teacher Hank Panian who
will speak on the Newport -Mesa Unified School District, from its
inception to the present day. He asked that interested parties call
(949) 631-5918 for more information.
Skateboard Park Jim Gray, Costa Mesa, who brought members of his Boy Scout
Troop No. 711 to witness the meeting, thanked Council for building
a skateboard park in Costa Mesa.
Pedestrians at Street Don Elmore, Costa Mesa, expressed concern regarding
Crossings; Bicyclists pedestrians who cross the street against the red light at Harbor
Boulevard and Wilson Street, Harbor Boulevard and Adams
Avenue, Placentia Avenue and Wilson Street, and Victoria Street
and Placentia Avenue. He objected to bicycles riding against the
traffic flow because it confuses motorists at intersections, and
commented on young bicyclists who do not wear helmets.
Mayor Mansoor asked that these items be brought to the attention
of the Police Department.
Refakes Comments Beth Refakes, Costa Mesa, suggested that the guidelines for the
City Council meeting which are on the first page of the new agenda
should also be posted in the Council Chambers foyer. She agreed
that the speeding problem on Broadway should be addressed, but
questioned the effectiveness of a stop sign. She commented on
vehicles who run the red light at Broadway and Newport Boulevard,
and Harbor Boulevard and Newport Boulevard. Ms. Refakes
asked about the Huscroft House funds allocation, and if Council
would be addressing this issue. The City Manager confirmed that
the Huscroft House would be on a future Council agenda.
West Side Improve- Mike Evans, Costa Mesa, complimented Council for improvements
ments to the west side of Costa Mesa, especially the streets, and asked if
there is anything planned for 17th Street between Placentia and
Whittier Avenues. The Public Services Director responded that
17th Street is scheduled for repair under the current year's Capital
Improvement Program, is currently under design, and construction
is anticipated for summer, 2005.
Millard Comments Martin Millard, Costa Mesa, commented that the Planning
Commission is approving projects which do not have adequate
parking. He advised that there are day workers who loiter every
morning at the 7 -Eleven Store at Baker and Bristol Streets, and
Placentia Avenue and Victoria Street, and suggested that they be
cited because they are a traffic hazard, are soliciting work which is
illegal, and mentioned that home values are being depressed. Mr.
Millard encouraged Council to open a dialog regarding a new
airport at Camp Pendleton in order to take the pressure off John
Wayne Airport.
Hogan-Shereshevsky Anne Hogan-Shereshevsky, Costa Mesa, commended the City for
Comments quick action at the Costa Mesa Senior Center when a tree on the
property disintegrated. She announced the October conference in
Washington D.C. on the subject of aging. She reiterated her
previous requests for a ban on fireworks.
CONSENT The following item was removed from the Consent Calendar: Item
CALENDAR No. 9, Agreement with Data Ticket, Inc., for parking citation
processing.
MOTION/Approved On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Council
Except Item No. 9 Member Dixon, and carried 5-0, the remaining Consent Calendar
items were approved as recommended.
READING FOLDER The following Reading Folder items were received and processed:
Claims Claims received by the Deputy City Clerk: Carlos Eduardo da
Silva Braga, et al.; Keith Costanzo; Christian Crampton; Tyler
Gibbs; Billy Mejia; Park Center Place Apartments; and
Behnam Sharifi.
Alcoholic Beverage Request for Alcoholic Beverage Control License from Taka
Control License Sushi, 2969 Fairview Road, for a person-to-person transfer
of an existing Type 41 ABC License (on -sale beer and wine
for a bona fide eating place).
MINUTES/February 7, Minutes of the regular meetings of February 7, 2005, and February
and February 22, 2005 22, 2005, were approved as distributed.
WARRANTS The following warrants were approved:
Approved Warrant Warrant Resolution 2047, funding Payroll No. 504 for
2047/Payroll 504 and $2,068,450.95, Payroll No. 503A for $339.69, and City
503A operating expenses for $518,996.72, including payroll
deductions.
Approved Warrant Warrant Resolution 2048, funding City operating expenses for
2048 $394,239.84.
ADMINISTRATIVE A Joint Agreement was approved with the County of Orange, 840
ACTIONS/Approved North Eckhoff Street, Suite 104, Orange, for the Operation,
Agreement with Maintenance, and Financial Management of the 800 MHz
County for 800 MHz Countywide Coordinated Communications System (800 MHz
CCCS CCCS), the financial obligations being consistent with the
partnership Joint Agreement of June 24, 2003, and the Mayor and
Deputy City Clerk were authorized to sign on behalf of the City.
Approved Amendment Amendment No. 10 was approved to Master Funding Agreement
No. 10 to Agreement C-95-968 with Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA),
C-95-968 with OCTA which replaces the prior Exhibit A with a revised "Combined
Transportation Funding Programs Allocations" list dated December
20, 2004, and the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk were authorized to
sign on behalf of the City.
Approved Purchase of The purchase of two 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe two -wheel drive
Two Vehicles from vehicles with Police packages was approved from Wondries Fleet
Wondries Fleet Group Group, 1247 West Main Street, Alhambra, for $60,680.75. The
purchase is in conjunction with the County of Los Angeles in order
to receive volume discount pricing.
Approved Budget Ad- Budget Adjustment No. 05-069 was approved for $118,000.00 for
justment No. 05-069, Storm Drain Emergency Repair Work Projects, to repair damaged
Storm Drain Emer- public areas utilizing State and Federal Public Assistance Funds
gency Repair Work under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency
Assistance Act, and the City Manager was authorized to sign on
behalf of the City.
Agreement with Data Item No. 9 on the Consent Calendar was presented: Agreement
Ticket for Parking with Data Ticket, Inc., for parking citation processing including data
Citation Processing processing,. collection of fines, and administrative reviews and
hearings, effective through March 31, 2010. Mike Berry, Costa
Mesa, questioned why this is not being handled on a contingency
basis. The Police Lieutenant explained that the fee paid to the
contractor is for the processing and handling of parking citations,
hearings, as well as collection, and any fees are offset by the
revenues generated. Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, quoting from the
agenda report, noted that there had been a $40,000.00 per year
savings by contracting the work to Data Ticket, Inc.
MOTION/Approved On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Council
Agreement Member Dixon, and carried 5-0, the agreement was approved with
Data Ticket, Inc., 4600 Campus Drive, Suite 200, Newport Beach,
for an amount not to exceed $100,000.00, and the Mayor and
Deputy City Clerk were authorized to sign on behalf of the City.
ANNOUNCEMENT Mayor Mansoor announced that there has been a request from the
applicant to continue Public Hearing No. 2, and a request had
been received to continue Public Hearing No. 3 to a study session.
Council Member Foley suggested that given the lengthy agenda,
New Business No. 4 be continued to the Council meeting of April
5, 2005.
1
1
MOTION/Continued On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Council
Hearing on Planning Member Dixon, and carried 5-0, the following item was continued
Application PA -03-31 to the City Council meeting of April 19, 2005:
to April 19, 2005
Public Hearing No. 2: Continued from the meeting of February
22, 2005, to consider a request from Kim Berry, authorized
agent for Cameo Homes, for a one-year extension of time for
Planning Application PA -03-31 for a master plan amendment
and variance from perimeter open space requirements (20 feet
required; 6 feet proposed) for the construction of garages along
a side property line, located at 550 Paularino Avenue in a
Planned Development Residential - High Density (PDR -HD)
zone. Environmental determination: Exempt.
Charles Ives, Costa Mesa, confirmed with the Mayor that Public
Hearing No. 2 would not be discussed at this meeting.
MOTION/Continued On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Council
Hearing on Parkland Member Foley, and carried 5-0, the following item was continued to
Impact Fee in Lieu of the next available City Council study session:
Land Dedication to
Future Study Session Public Hearing No. 3: Resolution amending the current
parkland impact fee in lieu of land dedication requirements for
new residential subdivisions within the City of Costa Mesa
pursuant to the City's Subdivision provisions (Article 5 of
Chapter XI, Subdivisions, of Title 13 of the Costa Mesa
Municipal Code).
MOTION/Continued On motion by Council Member Foley, seconded by Council
Costa Mesa United Member Dixon, and carried 5-0, Old Business Item No. 4,
Foundation Presenta- Presentation by the Costa Mesa United Foundation, was continued
tion to April 5, 2005 to the meeting of April 5, 2005.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced that this is the time and place
EMS Subscription set for the public hearing continued from the meeting of February
Program 22, 2005, to consider an ordinance adopting an Emergency
Medical Services (EMS) Subscription Program and Restructuring
Emergency Medical Services Response Fees, amending Title 7 of
the Costa Mesa Municipal Code. The Affidavit of Publication is on
file in the City Clerk's office. The Fire Chief summarized the
Agenda Report dated March 2, 2005.
Judi Berry, Costa Mesa, objected to the $36.00 subscription fee,
and suggested that insurance companies should be billed and the
deductibles and co-insurance should be waived in accordance with
Medi -care and Medi -cal regulations. Mayor Mansoor asked the
City Attorney provide Ms. Berry with an opinion on whether or not
the subscription fee would violate Medi -care and Medi -cal
provisions.
Mayor `Mansoor expressed his '''intent to avoid the concerns
regarding the issue by keeping it simply as a mechanism to bill
insurance companies. He supported billing insurance for
residents, waiving the deductible and co-insurance, and charging
the Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS)
fees to non-residents. The City Attorney replied to questions,
recommending that if Council is interested in reviewing "safe
harbor" rules, those provisions could be added to the ordinance
prior to second reading or the resolution structure for
administration of the waivers. A question and answer period
ensued.
Mike Berry, Costa Mesa, favored billing the insurance companies
and using that money to satisfy these expenses. He suggested
using a subscription and a billing format.
Beth Refakes, Costa Mesa, thought that a group home rate should
be included, and commented that according to the fee structure,
residents appeared to be subsidizing the businesses. She
requested information on the demographics, and observed that the
program needed "refinement".
Paul Flanagan, Costa Mesa, who is experienced with medical
billing, reported that emergency transportation is covered by Medi-
care and Medi -cal, and most insurance companies also cover this
cost. Council Member Foley clarified that the EMS Subscription
Program relates to paramedic services but does not include the
ambulance fee which is separate. The Fire Chief reviewed the
current process.
Brian Evans, Costa Mesa, addressed adoption of the ordinance
and resolution.
Terry Shaw, Costa Mesa, commented that some of the wording is
confusing. The City Attorney clarified Mr. Shaw's area of concern.
There being no other speakers, the Mayor closed the public
hearing.
Council Member Bever proposed an extensive outreach program
by notifying every household yearly for the first three years. Mayor
Pro Tem Monahan concurred. The Fire Chief acknowledged that
is the intent, that the program would include a mass mailing to
reach as many residents as possible. He, the Deputy Fire Chief,
and the Finance Director responded to questions from Council.
The City Attorney was asked to conduct further research regarding
insured versus non-insured participants.
MOTION/To Give
A motion was made by Mayor Mansoor, seconded by Council
First Reading to Ordi-
Member Foley, to give first reading to Ordinance 05-3, as
nance, as amended;
amended, to be read by title only: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
and Direct Staff to
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA,
Prepare a Fee Resolu-
ADOPTING AN EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS)
tion
SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAM AND RESTRUCTURING
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES RESPONSE FEES,
amending Section 7-132(a) to include language for billing the
insurance companies for resident claims, and waiving the
deductible and co-insurance fees; amending Section 7-132(a) by
adding, "The BLS and ALS Fire Department User Fees shall be
established by resolution of the City Council," and deleting "The
current BLS ($185) and ALS ($295) Fire Department user fees
shall be eliminated, and in their place shall be created one Fire
Department EMS Response Fee, the amount of which shall be
established by resolution of the City Council", directing staff to
prepare a resolution providing for a Basic Life Support (BLS) fee of
$215.00, the Advanced Life Support (ALS) fee of $350 to non-
residents, and to bill the non-residents, as well as their insurance
companies; and to waive further reading.
Mayor Mansoor clarified that in his motion he intended that the
subscription fee be eliminated. The City Attorney advised that the
ordinance would need to further be amended as proposed to
delete Sections 7-128, 7-129, 7-130, 7-131, and 7-133. After
discussion, Council Member Foley withdrew her second to the
1
1
�J
motion because residents would bear the burden of the cost
should they not have insurance and a subscription fee was not
offered.
MOTION/Gave Ordi- On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Council
nance 05-3 First Member Dixon, and carried 3-2, Mayor Mansoor and Council
Reading Member Foley voting no, Ordinance 05-3 was given first reading:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING AN EMERGENCY
MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) SUBSCRIPTION PROGRAM AND
RESTRUCTURING EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
RESPONSE FEES. Second reading and adoption are scheduled
for the meeting of April 5, 2005.
Mayor Pro Tem Monahan asked that the City Attorney's Office
research the waiver of deductibles and co -payments prior to
second reading of<< the ordinance, and asked that a better
explanation of the Medi-care/Safe Harbor provisions be provided.
Council Member Foley opposed the motion because, as a resident,
she felt that there are certain City services which should be
provided without additional charges, and supported finding
alternatives to revenue generation. Mayor Mansoor opposed the
motion, stating concern regarding the additional fees.
MOTION/Waived A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by
Further Reading Council Member Dixon, and carried 5-0, to read the ordinance by
title only, and to waive further reading.
RECESS Mayor Mansoor declared a recess at 8:30 p.m., and reconvened
the meeting at 8:45 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented a discussion on the Costa Mesa
Costa Mesa Job Job Center. Mayor Pro Tem Monahan reviewed the Agenda
Center Report dated March 3, 2005. The Recreation Manager reported
that the Job Center lease is on a month-to-month basis, with a 30 -
day -notice termination clause.
Council Member Foley was concerned about relocating the
persons who currently use the Job Center. Mayor Pro Tem
Monahan replied that an average of 34 persons per day found
employment through the Job Center, and the services of a job
placement company called Labor Ready could be offered. Mayor
Mansoor felt that discontinuing use by non-residents and non-
resident businesses would cut the Center numbers in half.
Dave Salcido, Costa Mesa, felt that the Job Center is a symptom
of the problem, and the actual issue is massive, uncontrolled,
illegal immigration.
Mike Berry, Costa Mesa, indicated that persons who utilize the
Center are back on the west side•by 3:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., and
agreed that this is the symptom of a larger problem.
Wendy Leece, Costa Mesa, thought that the Job Center had a
negative effect on the west side and should be phased out of
operation. She encouraged establishing a relationship with Labor
Ready in order to "point people in the right direction."
Bill Turpit, Costa Mesa, declared that protecting the safety of
streets and sidewalks is a City responsibility, as is providing dignity
to the hiring process, making parks available for recreation, and
creating a welcoming and successful environment for businesses.
He commented that should the Job Center close, hundreds of
additional persons will be back on west side streets which is unfair
burden. He volunteered his services to work with the City to find
an alternative solution.
Dave Brooks, Costa Mesa, former member of the Costa Mesa
Police Department, reported that he had been involved in the
formation of the Job Center. He provided a brief history of the
Center, stating that it was formed to addressed the complaints of
west side businesses and residents, and observed that the
effectiveness of the Police Department will be affected by closure.
Frank Forbath, Costa Mesa, supported retention of the Job Center,
stating that it was good for small businesses, for homeowners, and
reported that he has personally used the workers on a number of
occasions. He maintained that the Center was doing a good job in
an orderly and dignified fashion.
Martin Millard, Costa Mesa, applauded Mayor Pro Tem Monahan
for bringing forth the topic of the Job Center, and mentioned that
the two previous speakers who endorsed the Center live in the
Mesa Verde area, not the west side. He encouraged either closure
or relocation.
Judi Berry, Costa Mesa, did not believe that closure would
adversely affect the west side.
Phil Morello, Costa Mesa, believed that the Job Center is a
compromise that the citizens should not have to endure. He
named positive achievements which have occurred on the west
side, and encouraged closure of the Center. He agreed that Labor
Ready is a good operation although more costly.
The following Costa Mesa residents opposed closure of the Job
Center: Paul Flanagan spoke about the circumstances of the
workers; Terry Shaw believed that the Job Center should cater to
residents only, and thought that relocation to another area might
provide an answer; Mirna Burciaga asked if the City is ready to
deal with the outcome of closure, and encouraged formulation of a
plan; Christy Brooks reported that the Center is also used by
seasonal workers, and noted that many of the workers are long-
time Costa Mesa residents; Pamela Frankel; and David Stiller
questioned the potential success of privatizing the operation.
Bob Graham, Costa Mesa, felt more confident hiring someone
from the Job Center than off the street.
Beth Refakes, Costa Mesa, indicated that should the Center be
closed, the City must provide the services to ensure that the
workers do not shift to another location such as Home Depot. She
agreed that the Center is an eyesore and acknowledged problems
associated with it, but cautioned awareness of potential impacts
connected with closure.
The Police Chief and Recreation Manager responded to questions
from Council. Mayor Mansoor thought that closure of the Center
would ultimately result in less long-term Police Department
services in the area. Council Member Foley observed that the anti -
loitering ordinance would need to be enforced in order to avoid
problems such as those encountered in the past. She encouraged
finding out the legal ramifications of a decision to close the Job
Center, and suggested determining a plan to deal with 562 persons
who would be loitering in the neighborhood. She believed that the
City needs the Job Center, and was open to considering alternate
locations. The City Manager explained that the current location
was chosen in order to locate the Center close to where the
solicitation was taking place. He added that there would be
"issues" when attempting to locate the Center in any neighborhood.
Mayor Pro Tem Monahan did not foresee encountering the
problems which existed when the Job Center was created, and
firmly believed that it was timely for it to close as improvements to
the west side are being instituted. The City Manager replied to
Council Member Dixon's inquiry about partnering with the City of
Santa Ana to create a Center at the corner of Harbor and
MacArthur Boulevards, by stating that Santa Ana was approached
about a joint program several years ago, and they declined.
MOTION/Terminated On motion by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by Mayor
Job Center Lease Mansoor, staff was directed to terminate the lease of the Costa
Mesa Job Center, as of June 30, 2005, with legal notice
commencing as of April 15, 2005; to immediately post notices and
distribute hand bill notices at the job center announcing that
effective April 15, 2005, that the Center will implement "resident
only" usage for workers and employers utilizing the Center are
either residents or show proof of a City Business license; for staff
to initiate contact with Labor Ready to explore joint participation
possibilities in the labor market; directed staff to research and
evaluate other similar programs that may be available including
contacting the cities of Augora Hills and Santa Monica to evaluate
such programs as the call center; to research traffic enforcement
and develop an implementation plan; directed the City Attorney to
research time and place requirements; and directed that staff
currently assigned to the Job Center be reassigned for the Fiscal
Year 2005-2006.
Mayor Mansoor thought that persons currently using the Job
Center could utilize the services of Labor Ready, and asked that
Police staff monitor costs over the next few months. Council
Member Dixon asked that the City forward a letter to the President
of the United States and the California Governor stating that illegal
immigrants are causing great concern and problems in the City.
Mayor Mansoor supported sending a letter.
Council Member Foley was concerned about reaching a decision
to close the Job Center this evening. She indicated that she is
unfamiliar with Labor Ready, and encouraged proactive planning
prior to reaching a decision regarding closure. She opposed the
motion as proposed.
The Recreation Manager informed Council that the staff at the Job
Center work part time so it may 66 difficult to find an appropriate
reassignment.
The motion carried 3-2, Council Member Dixon and Council
Member Foley voting no.
RECESS The Mayor declared a recess at 10:20 p.m., and reconvened the
meeting at 10:35 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented Westside Revitalization Oversight
WROC Implementa- Committee (WROC) Implementation Plan. The Principal Planner
tion Plan summarized the Agenda Report dated March 15, 2005.
The following Costa Mesa residents and/or business owners
supported the WROC Implementation Plan: Chris Eric, Committee
Member; John Hawley; Paul Flanagan, encouraged the committee
to recognize the problem of employment on the west side; Mike
Harrison, stressed that WROC did not approve Recommendation
B1 regarding the residential overlay zone; Roger McGregor,
McGregor Yacht Corporation, supported the plan but opposed
mixing residential and commercial; Steve Marx, Committee
Member and business owner; Clarence Turner; Beth Refakes,
thought that some of the recommendations in the report should be
applied throughout the City; Bill Turpit, Committee Member; Mike
Evans; Martin Millard, Committee Member, favored the widest
possible overlay to permit the evolution to residences on the west
side bluffs; Mike Berry, Committee Member, concurred that the
overlay should be wide; Dave Salcido, Committee Member; Frank
Gutierrez, Committee Member; Bill Modick, business owner,
thought that everyone in the affected area should be notified of
potential changes; Judi Berry; and Kathleen Eric, Committee
Member.
Terry Shaw, Costa Mesa, asked for clarification on several items.
The Principal Planner and Management Analyst responded to
questions from Council. The Development Services Director asked
that staff have the opportunity to address several questions relative
to the effects on Code Enforcement, costs, and time frame.
Council Member Bever understood that there had been a 75
percent approval by WROC of Recommendation B1, Live/Work,
Artist Loft Residential Overlay Zone, and mentioned a special
meeting held at the Neighborhood Community Center with
developers who stated that development could work in the area
without serious ramifications. He reviewed a map that he had
prepared and, submitted of the area which indicated zoning
incentives as presented by WROC in relation to A1, B1, and D1.
MOTION/Approved On motion by Council Member Bever, seconded by Mayor
WROC Zoning Mansoor, staff was directed to proceed with the implementation of
Incentives the WROC zoning incentives as conceptualized in the map
produced and provided by Council Member Bever, dated March
15, 2005, and with zoning incentives processed in the following
order:
B1-Live/Work or Residential Overlay
D1 -Residential Ownership Incentive Overlay
A2 -Mixed Use, Commercial -Residential Hybrid Overlay;
directed staff to proceed with the following recommendations in the
order to be determined by staff:
C4 -Garbage Dumpster Standards
C5 -Code Enforcement Volunteer Program
D3 -Flexible Development Standards Ordinance
E1 -West 19th Street Pedestrian Access Study;
and directed staff to prepare a resolution to disband the WROC
committee.
Regarding Recommendation C5, Code Enforcement Volunteer
Program, Mayor Mansoor wanted to ensure that this program did
not develop into an oversight committee and that the volunteers
merely observed and reported. Mayor Pro Tem Monahan was
concerned that Recommendation A2, Mixed Use, Commercial -
Residential Hybrid Overlay, allowed construction height up to four
stories, and confirmed that the motion is basically direction to staff
on items to be researched and brought back to Council at a future
date. He supported Recommendation C4, implementing Garbage
Dumpster Standards on the west side and eventually expanding to
City-wide; Recommendation C5, for which he suggested a good
training program; and Recommendations E1 and D3.
Mayor Pro Tem Monahan complimented Council Member Bever
and WROC for the work on this program,- stating that he was
impressed with the results of their efforts. Council Member Foley
objected to the short notification regarding the new information
which contains a substantial change. Council Member Bever
replied that the information contains recommendations which are
relevant based on his knowledge of the area, conversations with
community members, the development community, and staff.
Council Member Foley asked Council to continue this item.
Council Member Bever clarified that all of his recommendations, on
the map and in the motion, originate from the WROC report.
Council Member Dixon commended the committee, commented
that the overlay was never large enough, and observed that the
plan was simple to understand. Council Member Foley expressed
an interest in creating a bicycle trail to the beach. The Principal
Planner advised that linkage to the Santa Ana Bike Trail system is
part of the Master Plan of Bikeways which is a separate issue. The
City Manager suggested having staff review the bike plan in light of
the proposed bikeway.
The motion carried 5-0.
Council Member Foley supported the motion but expressed her
disappointment that review of a bikeway could not be added.
Mayor Pro Tem Monahan asked the City Manager to direct the
Transportation Division to provide an update on the Master Plan of
Bikeways, specifically addressing a bikeway to the beach.
MOTION/Approved A motion was made by Council Member Dixon, seconded by
Extending Council Council Member Foley, and carried 5-0, to approving extending the
Meeting Council past the midnight hour in order to discuss the remaining
item, New Business No. 3, Trinity Broadcasting Network.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented Trinity Broadcasting Network
Trinity Broadcasting Conditional Use Permits (PA -96-19 and PA -98-24). Council
Network CUP's Member Dixon reviewed the Agenda Report dated March 3, 2005.
Stacy Schofro, Costa Mesa, complained about noise caused by
TBN due to gas and electric -powered lifts which are used to install
and remove light displays. She reported that she had reported
violations of the conditional use permit on numerous occasions,
had been labeled a "nuisance caller" by the Police and Code
Enforcement, and sued by TBN. She asked for a remedy from the
continuous disturbance, suggesting that in the future TBN be
restricted to using scaffolding and ladders for installation of the
light displays, limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays, and only 30
days prior to Christmas, with removal using the same system.
Mayor Mansoor requested Ms. Schofro to make the videotapes
which she had referred to and document the infractions available
to Council.
John Casoria, representing Trinity Broadcasting Network, reported
that TBN had worked diligently with City staff to establish workable
conditions of approval for this building, and noted that they have
not received- any complaints from Ms. Schofro or any other
neighbor in well over a year. He commented that TBN had filed a
lawsuit in response to the one filed by Ms. Schofro. Mr. Casoria
maintained that they are a good neighbor.
Council Member Bever pointed out that the two parties involved
are in litigation, and asked the City Attorney if it was appropriate for
the City to intervene. She concurred, and stated that it would be
appropriate to refer to the Planning Commission.
Beth Refakes, Costa Mesa, thought that the City should ensure
that residents are allowed the peaceful enjoyment of their property.
MOTION/Received A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, seconded by
and Filed Council Member Bever, to receive and file.
Mayor Mansoor understood the resident's concerns . but clarified
that he had spoken to Ms. Schofro on . numerous occasions and
asked for specific information, including the aforementioned
videotapes, which had not been provided. Considering the lack of
evidence provided, he was not inclined to proceed with the
recommended action. Council Member Foley supported
reconsideration by the Planning Commission, mentioning that she
had received several complaints from residents. She was
concerned that the decision is being decided on the merits without
having had a hearing which could be a violation of Ms. Schofro's
due process. Council Member Dixon was disappointed that this
matter could be filed away and the concerns of the residents would
not be addressed. Council Member Bever agreed that "quality of
life" issues were important, but thought that this complaint lacked
substance.
SUBSTITUTE A substitute motion was made by Council Member Foley,
MOTION/To Refer seconded by Council Member Dixon, to refer to and request the
to Planning Commis- Planning Commission to review, and if appropriate, conduct a
sion Failed to Carry public hearing, on the conditional use permit currently detailing the
operation of Trinity Broadcasting Network. The substitute motion
failed to carry 3-2, Mayor Mansoor, Mayor Pro Tem Monahan, and
Council Member Bever voting no.
Mayor Pro Tem Monahan reiterated that the litigation between the
two parties should be concluded prior to City involvement. Council
Member Foley disagreed, stating that the City is involved because
they allowed this use next to a residential community.
The original motion carried 3-2, Council Member Dixon and
Council Member Foley voting no.
COUNCIL Council Member Foley reported that she had attended the Costa
COMMENTS Mesa American League and Costa Mesa National League opening
Little League Opening day ceremonies, noting that there was a good turnout. She
Day restated her request to establish a Neighborhood Safety Task
Force. The City Manager replied that he would schedule a
meeting with Council Member Foley and Council Member Dixon to
fashion an application for the task force.
WROC Council Member Bever thanked Council for their support on the
west side issue and unanimous approval of the WROC report.
1
1
Mayor Mansoor also attended the Little League function at Costa
Mesa High School.
ADJOURNMENT The Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 12:55 a.m.
Mayor of the City of Costa Mesa
ATTEST:
Dep City Clerk of the City of Costa Mesa
1
1