HomeMy WebLinkAbout12/06/1993 - City Council309
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF COSTA MESA
DECEMBER 6, 1993
The City Council of the City of Costa Mesa, California, met in
regular session December 6, 1993, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council
Chambers of City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa. The meeting
was called to order by the Mayor, followed by the 'Pledge of
Allegiance to the Flag, and invocation by the Reverend Rod Randall,
Harbor Trinity Baptist Church.
ROLL CALL Council Members Present: Mayor Sandra Genis
Vice Mayor Jay Humphrey
Council Member Mary Hornbuckle
Council Member Peter Buffa
Council Member Joe Erickson
Council Members Absent: None
Officials Present: City Manager Allan Roeder
City Attorney Thomas Kathe
Deputy City Manager/Development
Services Donald Lamm
Public Services Director William
Morris
Redevelopment Project Manager Muriel
Berman
Community Services Director Keith
Van Holt
Senior Planner Alice Angus
Deputy City Clerk Mary Elliott
MINUTES On motion by Council Member Buffa, seconded by Council Member
November 15, 1993 Erickson, and carried 4-0, Vice Mayor Humphrey abstaining, the
minutes of the regular meeting of November 15, 1993, were
approved as revised.
ORDINANCES AND A motion was made by Council Member Hornbuckle, seconded by
RESOLUTIONS Council Member Erickson, and carried 5-0, to read all ordinances
and resolutions by title only.
PRESENTATION Mayor Genis presented Certificates of Appreciation in recognition
Transportation of their years of service to the outgoing members of the Costa Mesa
Commission Transportation Commission: Ronald Bauer, Linda Dixon, Agnes
Dubberly, Derald Hunt, and David Stiller.
I ORAL COMMUNI- Ernie Feeney, 1154 Dorset Lane, Costa Mesa, reported that a
CATIONS member of the Parks, Recreation Facilities, and Parkways
Improvement of Commission, had spoken to the Daily Pilot, the Los Angeles Times,
City Playgrounds and the Orange County Register, suggesting that the City utilize
$5,000,000.00 in reserve funds to improve City playgrounds. The
City Manager stated that he was under the impression that this
commissioner was not speaking on behalf of the Commission but
was expressing his own views. Mayor Genis added that numerous
study sessions were held prior to adoption of the current budget
wherein members of the public, as well as commissioners, were
invited to comment; and a mid -year budget review will be held later
this year.
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Fairview Road/55 Charles Markel, 2851 Clubhouse Road, Costa Mesa, stated that the
Freeway Intersection intersection at Fairview Road and the 55 Freeway frontage road is
extremely dangerous due to inadequate signage. Mayor Genis asked
the City Manager and the Public Services Director to investigate.
Soffer Comments Sid Soffer, 900 Arbor. Street, Costa Mesa, commented that the City
of Newport Beach is making concessions to accommodate businesses
for planning and zoning ordinance requirements, as opposed to Costa
'Mesa's endorsement of variance regulations. He commented that the
City has more immediate problems than parks and bike lanes.
CONSENT The following item was removed from the Consent Calendar: Item
CALENDAR 8, Change Order No. 1 to the contract with Geofon, Inc., to provide
construction ' testing services for the Intermodal Surface
Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) construction projects
approved for the 1992-93 fiscal year.
MOTION On motion by Council Member Hornbuckle, seconded by Council
Approved Except Member Buffa, and carried 5-0, the remaining Consent Calendar
Item 8 items were approved as recommended.
READING FOLDER The following Reading Folder items were received and processed:
Claims Claims received by the Deputy City Clerk: Hung Huy Dao and
Huong Do; Hedio L. Lobo; Ron Pavano; Harold L. Robinson;
Denise Shirley; Carol Smith; and Johanna Wieting.
Alcoholic Alcoholic Beverage Licenses for which parking has been
Beverage approved by the Planning staff: Mansour M. Khalifieh, doing
Licenses business as Cheers Market, 1525 Mesa Verde Drive East, Units
127-129; and Cameo Builders, Inc., doing business as Tony's
Place, 2052 Newport Boulevard, Suite 15.
Public Utilities Notice from Southern California Gas Company that it has filed
Commission Application No. 93-11-004 with the Public Utilities Commission .
for an increase in gas rates.
Notice from Southern. California Edison Company that it has
filed Application No. A93-11006 with the Public Utilities
Commission for adjustment of certain rates and costs.
Reform of State Resolution from the.City of Carson in support of public safety
Government and reform of state government.
SET FOR PUBLIC The following item was set for public hearing on December 20,
HEARING/Hearing 1993, at 6:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall:
Set for December 20,
1993, for Police Resolution establishing and adopting a fee for Police Depart -
Services Fee ment services (use of jail facility by other agencies). -
WARRANTS Warrant Resolution 1559, funding City operating expenses in the
Approved Warrant amount of $803,401.56; and Payroll 9322 for $1,161,838.80, were
1559/Payroll 9322 , approved.
Approved Warrant Warrant Resolution 1560, funding City operating expenses in the
1560/Payroll 9323 amount of $1,230,474.03; and Payroll 9323 for $1,185,614.53, were
approved.
REJECTED CLAIMS . The following claims were rejected:
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Geissinger Cloud Geissinger (vehicle damaged by sinkhole on Fairview
Road).
Yost Carl Yost (vehicle damaged by drain cover).
ADMINISTRATIVE Resolution 93-90, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
ACTIONS/Adopted THE CITY OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA, RELATIVE TO
Resolution 93-90 for WORKERS COMPENSATION BENEFITS FOR REGISTERED
Volunteer Benefits VOLUNTEER "DISASTER SERVICES WORKERS", was adopted.
Accepted Work by Corporation Yard Bike Trail from Placentia Avenue to 1,000 feet
Bopark Enterprises east of Placentia Avenue, Project No. 93-05, was completed to the
for Corporation satisfaction of the Public Services Director on September 27, 1993,
Yard Bike Trail, by Bopark Enterprises, Inc., 8560 Vineyard Avenue, No. 103,
Project No. 93-05 Rancho Cucamonga. The work was accepted; the Deputy City
Clerk was authorized to file a Notice of Completion; authorization
was given to rele8etletention funds 35 days thereafter; the Labor
and Material Bond was ordered exonerated 7 months thereafter; and
the Performance Bond was ordered exonerated 12 months thereafter.
Change Order No. 1 Item No. 8 on the Consent Calendar was presented: Change Order
to Contract with No. 1 for $109,000.00 to the contract with Geofon, Inc., 5552
Geofon, Inc. Cerritos Avenue, Suite B, Cypress, for construction testing services
for the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA)
ISTEA Construction construction projects approved for the 1992-93 fiscal year, Project
Testing, Project No. C92-02. Sid Soffer, 900 Arbor Street, Costa Mesa, asked if the
No. C92-02 original contract made allowances for the allocation of additional
funds. The Public Services Director responded that the bidding for
this project was done by unit price, or cost per test, and the original
staff estimates should have been more conservative. The City
Attorney clarified that the contract allowed for a change order to be
issued to cover additional work requested by the Public Services
MOTION Director or Project Manager. On motion by Council Member
Change Order Hornbuckle, seconded by Council Member Erickson, and carried
Approved 5-0, the change order was approved.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced the public hearing, continued
General Plan Amend- from the meeting of November 1, 1993, to consider General Plan
ment GP -93-04B Amendment GP -93-04B and Zoning Code Amendment, to provide
opportunities for voluntary redevelopment of residential projects that
were made nonconforming by the adoption of the 1990 General
Plan. Environmental Determination: Final Environmental Impact
Report No. 1044 adopted for the 1990 General Plan. The Deputy
City Manager/Development Services reviewed the Agenda Report
dated November 24, 1993. The Principal Planner responded to
questions from the Mayor and explained several details of the
proposed General Plan Amendment.
Richard Sewell, West Bay Properties, 136 Rochester Street, Costa
Mesa, supported the City's position that if more than 50 percent of
a building were destroyed, it may,. be rebuilt in the same footprint.
He questioned the statement on Page 20, Paragraph (2),
"Furthermore, the allowable density or number of units to be
redeveloped shall be limited to the General Plan rebuilding incentive
for the current land use designation. " The Mayor responded that in
most cases, that would be the same number of units. The Principal
Planner explained that it refers to the General Plan Policy. Mr.
Sewell suggested that the General Plan Amendment should
encourage voluntary redevelopment of apartment units by allowing
previous density standards.
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Tom Schworer, 1816 Kinglet Court, Costa Mesa, commented that
redevelopment of existing properties is not being encouraged, and
the economics of owning and developing property in Costa Mesa
would have to be reevaluated in the future.
Charles Markel, 2851: Clubhouse Road, Costa Mesa, reported that
since adoption of the General Plan, there are 19,500 nonconforming
units in the City. He felt this should be addressed, along with
development standards. Mr. Markel recommended continuing this
item for further consideration since it is of great importance.
Kerry Ward, 126 East 19th Street, Costa Mesa, stated that the
General Plan Amendment indicates that property owners will be
allowed to rebuild at existing densities which is not true because of
parking requirements. He felt that the amendment needed more
consideration because ' of inconsistencies which will continue to
inhibit the general public.
Sid Soffer, 900 Arbor, Street, Costa Mesa, suggested that a meeting
be held on this issue and that all property owners affected be
notified. He spoke on zoning and nonconforming uses.
MOTION A motion was made by Council Member Buffa, seconded by Council
Continued to Member Hornbuckle, to continue this item to the meeting of January
January 17, 1994 17, 1994.
Council Member Erickson pointed out that property owners are
allowed to rebuild to their current densities but are being required
to meet prevailing standards which is of benefit to the City. He
stated he would support the continuance if there would be new
information available; however, he could not support high density
apartment projects being rebuilt at old standards.
Vice Mayor Humphrey stated that he could not support the
continuation because of the aforementioned reasons given by Council
Member Erickson; and because property owners had not attempted
to upgrade their properties previously.
The motion carried .4-1, Vice Mayor Humphrey voting no.
Council Member Buffa reiterated to the speakers, and to other
concerned parties, that the continuance is an opportunity to attempt
to rectify points which might have been inadequately addressed.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced that this was the time and place
Development Agree- set for the public hearing to consider the annual review of Metro
ment DA -88-02, Pointe Development Agreement DA -88-02, Phases 2 and 3, to allow
Metro Pointe the ultimate construction of 1,285,056 square feet of office
development located in the 900 block (odd numbers) of South Coast
Drive in a PDC zone. Environmental Determination: Exempt. The
Affidavits of Publishing and Mailing are on file in the City Clerk's
office. No communications were received. The Deputy City
Manager/Development Services summarized the Agenda Report
dated November 22; 1993.
Leonard Hampel, Rutan & Tucker, 611 Anton Boulevard, Suite 1400,
Costa Mesa, representing Arnel Development, reported that the
agreement was in good order, and complimented City staff on their
obtaining the Intermodal Surface Transportation, Efficiency Act
(ISTEA) monies for the I-405 Freeway/Bristol Street on/off ramps.
There being no other speakers, the Mayor closed the public hearing.
MOTION/Found that A motion was made by Council Member Buffa, seconded by Council
Arnel has Complied Member Erickson, and carried 5-0, finding that Arnel Development
with the Agreement Company has demonstrated good faith compliance with the terms
and provisions of Development Agreement DA -88-02.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced that this was the time and place
Comprehensive set for the public hearing to consider the Comprehensive Housing
Housing Affordability Affordability Strategy (CHAS) for 1994, United States Department
Strategy for 1994 of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Affidavit of
Publication is on file, in the City Clerk's office. No communications
were received. The Redevelopment Project Manager reviewed the
Agenda Report dated December 6, 1993.
Council Member Hornbuckle suggested that the Citizen Participation
Process, Appendix`s A of the Agenda Report, Page 27, should be
revised to include other citizen input, for example comments from
the Redevelopment & Residential Rehabilitation Committee.
Jan Luymes, 592 Park Drive, Costa Mesa, addressed the dilemma
of the City's shortage of very low-income housing, and an over-
abundance of units that low-income people cannot afford. She
suggested scrutinizing the density bonus methods in order to provide
housing where needed; and if units cannot be built because of
density, then look to providing rental subsidies.
There being no other speakers, the Mayor closed the public hearing.
MOTION On motion by Council Member Erickson, seconded by Vice Mayor
Resolution 93-91 Humphrey, and carried 5-0, Resolution 93-91, A RESOLUTION OF
Adopted; City THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COSTA MESA,
Manager Authorized CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF A COMPRE-
to Sign HENSIVE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY STRATEGY (CHAS)
FOR 1994 TO THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF
HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, was adopted; the City
Manager was authorized to act as the City's official representative
to submit the CHAS and all certifications contained therein, and to
provide such additional information as may be required.
OLD BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented from the meeting of October 25,
Civic Playhouse 1993, a request concerning the outstanding debt of the Costa Mesa
Patrons Association Civic Playhouse Patrons Association. The City Manager reviewed
the Agenda Report dated November 30, 1993. He suggested that if
the Patrons Association made payments to the City on this debt,
interest be should be added.
Lee Jones, 180 Cabrillo Street, Costa Mesa, disputed some of the
allegations made at the Council meeting of October 25, 1993,
regarding the Patrons Association, kand reviewed various problems
the Patrons have had with rental of the Neighborhood Community
Center. Mr. Jones responded to a question from Council Member
Erickson by stating that the Patrons were proposing to pay $100.00
per month minimum, and more when feasible.
Ernie Feeney, 1154 Dorset Lane, Costa Mesa, commended the
Patrons Association for proposing a repayment schedule.
Hugo Hunziker, 2135 President Place, Costa Mesa, President,
reported he had corresponded with the Patron Association members
and local business leaders, and to date, received $1,000.00 which he
submitted towards repayment of the debt, with $100.00 to be paid
each month hereafter.
MOTION A motion was made by Council Member Hornbuckle, seconded by
Payment Schedule Vice Mayor Humphrey, and carried 5-0, to accept the payment
Accepted schedule as proposed by the Patrons Association, and to waive
interest charges.
OLD BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented from the meeting of November 1,
Costa Mesa Sanitary 1993, the proposed agreement with the Costa Mesa Sanitary District
District Operations concerning District operations. The City Manager summarized the
Agenda Report dated December 3, 1993.
Discussion ensued regarding the ownership of the sewer lines and
other factors relevant to the proposed change in operations.
MOTION On motion by Council Member Buffa, seconded by Vice Mayor
Agreement Approved; Humphrey, and carried 5-0, the agreement was approved, and the
Joint Study Session Mayor and Deputy City Clerk were authorized to sign on behalf of
Scheduled for the City; a joint meeting with the Sanitary District was scheduled for
February, 1994 the February, 1994, study session, to explore proceeding with a
request to the Local. Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO)
regarding consolidation of the District and its responsibilities into the
structure of the City Council; and staff was directed to contact
LAFCO regarding its view on this type of request, and the
procedure to be followed.
Council Member Erickson stated for the record that Sanitary District
personnel had expressed to him that they were running a tight ship,
and had developed a certain expertise over the years which would be
difficult for the City Council to duplicate. He felt they would be
resistant to any change.
OLD BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented a Memorandum of Understanding
Santa Ana River (MOU) for the Santa Ana River Crossings Environmental Impact
Crossings MOU Report. The Public Services Director reviewed the Agenda Report
dated November 24, 1993.
MOTION/Approved A motion was made by Mayor Genis, seconded by Council Member
in Concept; Continued Erickson, and carried 5-0, to approve the MOU in concept, with the
to January 3, 1994 precise wording to be considered at the meeting of January 3, 1994.
RECESS The Mayor declared a recess at 8:40 p.m., and the meeting
reconvened at 8:55 p.m.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented issues regarding Council -appointed
Advisory Committees advisory committees: update of the level and type of staff support
to be , provided to Citizen Advisory Committees; and
recommendation from the Child Care Committee for committee
focus and direction. The City Manager summarized the Agenda
Report dated November 30, 1993.
Ernie Feeney, 1154 Dorset Lane, Costa Mesa, objected to staff time
being utilized by committees that it totalled $12,000.00 per year.
She commented that the Child Care Committee's request would be
a duplication of effort, and was concerned that some child care
providers listed in the brochure may not be licensed. Council
Member Hornbuckle responded that the Child Care Directory was
published in 1991 and is somewhat out of date; however, in the first
edition (printed in approximately 1989), each provider was checked
to ensure that they were licensed.
Gay Geiser -Sandoval, 3408 Geranium Street, Costa Mesa, member
of the Child Care Committee, verified that licenses had been
checked with the State Licensing Board, and only those providers
with current licenses were included in the directory. She felt there
was a need for some staff time, and explained the inter -city network
for assistance to children.
John LeVere, 695 Center Street, Costa Mesa, member of the Child
Care Committee, stated that the Committee was only of value if
Council utilized its input.
Council Member Hornbuckle expressed concern that removing staff
assistance for committees would be detrimental because they provide
input and direction during the meetings. The City Manager
confirmed that committees which meet before or after regular
working hours are usually assigned management personnel to avoid
paying overtime wages. Vice Mayor Humphrey suggested that the
committees provide accurate information from a City perspective,
and supported authorizing a minimum amount of staff time if
committees are to remain active. Council Member Erickson
suggested subtracting the agenda and minute preparation from
allocated staff time, and thought that the Cultural Arts Committee
had outlived its usefulness.
MOTION A motion was made by Council Member Hornbuckle, seconded by
Authorized Existing Vice Mayor Humphrey, and carried 5-0, to continue the existing
Committee Structure committee structure with minimal staff support, and to encourage
to Continue committees to prepare their own minutes.
Council Member Erickson pointed out that the committees he is
involved with will be meeting less frequently, either bimonthly or
quarterly, and encouraged other committees to do the same. Mayor
Genis asked for a schedule of meetings for the active committees.
MOTION A motion was made by Council Member Hornbuckle, seconded by
Name Change Vice Mayor Humphrey, and carried 5-0, to approve the name
Approved; Child change from Child Care Committee to Child Care and Youth
Care Directory Services Committee; to approve the preparation of a new edition of
Approved the Child Care Directory, ensuring that the providers listed are
licensed, to be distributed by alternate means other than mailing; to
provide the Chair of the Committee with the agenda and minutes of
the Parks, Recreation Facilities, and Parkways Commission
meetings; and to encourage the Committee to develop an intercity
network of agencies that will provide services to children and youth.
Council Member Hornbuckle requested that staff contact the current
Chair of the Cultural Arts Committee and have her consult with its
members to determine if they are interested in continuing the
committee.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented a General Plan Amendment
General Plan Amend- screening for a portion of Segerstrom Home Ranch. The Deputy
ment Screening for City Manager/Development Services reviewed the Agenda Report
Home Ranch dated November 24, 1993. He presented a visual diagram of the
area. Council Member Buffa stated he would abstain from voting
on this item because of a potential conflict of interest.
Malcolm Ross, representing C. J. Segerstrom & Sons, 3315
Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, stated that the time to process the
Environmental Impact Report would be in conjunction with the
Automobile Club of Southern California, which is already underway.
He reported on several positive factors regarding the intended client
for the property: a multitude of the employees live within five miles
of the site; it is an exceptionally clean operation; it is a well-
managed organization; and the work shifts are staggered which
positively impacts traffic.
Jan Luymes, 592 Park Drive, Costa Mesa, a member of the General
Plan Steering Committee, stated that Home Ranch is a unique site
which should be considered in its entirety, not only a portion of it
as that would be detrimental to the whole. She expressed concern
over potential gridlock that could be the result of a Floor Area Ratio
(FAR) that exceeded that which was previously planned.
MOTION On motion by Council Member Erickson, seconded by Council
Application Accepted Member Hornbuckle, and carried 4-0, Council Member Buffa
for Processing abstaining, the application was accepted for processing, and use of
the fourth unscheduled General Plan hearing date for this application
was authorized.
Vice Mayor Humphrey supported the motion and wanted to ensure
a balance between housing and industrial uses. Mayor Genis
supported the motion because the Agenda Report indicated that on
a daily basis there would actually be fewer automobile trips than
under the medium density residential use; however, she felt peak
hour traffic would be an issue, plus the overall housing balance.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented a request from Council Member
Triangle Square Buffa and Triangle Square Associates for staff determination of
Banners banners encroaching into the public right-of-way; and City
Attorney's Report No. 93-128. Communications were received in
favor of allowing the' banners to remain at Triangle Square from:
Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce, 1835 Newport Boulevard,
Costa Mesa; Ann Matta, 2776 Bluebird Circle, Costa Mesa; Kam's
Restaurant, 1421 East 17th Street, Santa Ana; Phyllis Locke, 427
Belvue Lane, Newport Beach; and Kathleen Bogart, 2101 Pierce
Avenue, Costa Mesa. A communication was received from DeWitt
Worcester, 2023 Republic Avenue, Costa Mesa, supporting the
City's requirement for a permit to erect signs, decorations, etc.
The City Attorney requested a closed session pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(b)(1) based on the threat of
litigation by Triangle Square Joint Venture concerning enforcement
of the City sign ordinance in a letter dated November 19, 1993.
ADJOURNMENT TO At 9:45 p.m., the Mayor adjourned the meeting to closed session in
CLOSED SESSION the first floor conference room to discuss the above noted item.
MEETING The Mayor reconvened the meeting at 10:05 p.m.
RECONVENED
The City Manager reviewed the Agenda Report dated December 2,
1993. Discussion ensued regarding the banner height requirement
and other pertinent information on the Triangle Square/City
interactions. The City Attorney reported that Triangle Square had
been cited for having signs in the public right-of-way; however,
there is a provision that allows for this if a permit is issued. The
City Manager explained that some banner regulations had been
relaxed due to the recent construction on Newport Boulevard, but
that would end at the close of this year. He further explained that
while Triangle Square needed a permit for their banners, had they
applied, they would not have been eligible under the current Council
Policy.
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Mamie McLeod, Daily Pilot Newspaper, 330 Bay Street, Costa
Mesa, made a protest against the Mayor, the City Council, and the
City Attorney, for an alleged violation of the Brown Act, that is,
holding a closed session for a reason not covered by law. The City
Attorney responded that the appropriate notice had been filed, the
appropriate section relating to a significant exposure to litigation had
been cited, and the threat contained in Triangle Square's letter of
November 19, 1993, and statements made to the press, had also
been cited. He noted that by announcing action taken in closed
session, which is the normal procedure, the requirements of the
Brown Act are exceeded.
Rich Shapiro, 2515 Holly Lane, Newport Beach, representing
Triangle Square, clarified that the reason the City did not cite
Triangle Square for any violation on the lunch banners that were
previously hung was because they were not placed in the public
right-of-way. He responded to questions from Council Member
Buffa by stating that Triangle Square had paid for the sidewalks,
street trees, pedestrian lighting, landscaping, and architectural
elements, which included the banners. He stated these banners were
included in the original discussions with the City and were designed
to create a pedestrian ambience in the downtown area.
Lars Andersen, Triangle Square, 1870 Harbor Boulevard, Costa
Mesa, referred to the fact that the Redevelopment Agency can make
a ruling or allow a sign to be used that might not fall within the
strict application of the codes, and had applied that to the banners.
The City Attorney responded that the Redevelopment Agency is a
separate legal entity and could adopt policies different than that of
the City Council.
Jeffrey Oderman, 611 Anton Boulevard, Costa Mesa, attorney for
Triangle Square, addressed the issue of the City Council having the
authority to dismiss the citation, and alleged that the City Attorney
and City Manager indicated that Council did not have that authority.
The City Manager responded that his comments were taken out of
context and suggested that Mr. Oderman's statements were
unprofessional. He clarified that the intent of his comments were to
point out that Council had the ability to direct the City Attorney on
the disposition of citations.
Ernie Feeney, 1154 Dorset Lane, Costa Mesa, stated that the
majority of businesses in the City follow the rules; and although the
Triangle Square banners are nice, they should not be an exception.
Ed Warminski, 2479 Parmlee Lane, Costa Mesa, commented that
Triangle Square has greatly improved the appearance and prosperity
of the downtown area and is a beacon of hope for the future. He
felt that the holiday banners reinforce the optimism of people at a
crucial time for the local economy..,
Sid Soffer, 900 Arbor Street, Costa Mesa, stated that this was a
problem of politics and political positions.
Bob Hammond, 2912 Redwood Avenue, Costa Mesa, maintained
that business in Costa Mesa must be encouraged because of the tax
revenue and sometimes it is necessary to be creative; however,
business cannot be allowed to railroad change. He quoted from
Business Week magazine concerning Virgin Megastore who flaunted
the law in France by staying open on Sunday during the summer
tourist season which pushed the French government to change.
Rich Shapiro rejoined that Triangle Square had not done anything to
flaunt the law as they thought they had the necessary permits and
documentation to install the banners.
John DeWitt, 2000 Balearic Drive, Costa Mesa, gave his support to
retaining the banners' and stated that the Redevelopment and
Residential Rehabilitation Committee, in discussions with Triangle
Square, had agreed that banners, flags, and architectural enhance-
ments would be incorporated.
MOTION Council Member Hornbuckle made a motion directing staff to bring
Approved Banners back some proposed changes in the City's street banner regulations
to allow certain specific kinds of holiday greeting banners. Council
Member Buffa seconded the motion for discussion, during which
each Council Member suggested certain amendments.
AMENDED After discussion, Council Member Hornbuckle amended the motion
MOTION/Temporary as follows: directed staff to bring back -some proposed changes in
Approval Given for the City's street banner regulations to make it a little broader;
Existing Banners recommended that the City request ,the court to dismiss the citation
criminal complaint in the interest of justice; authorized temporary
approval for use of the existing banners as an exception to the
present banner ordinance until it is changed; and directed the Public
Services Director to ensure that the banners are hung in a safe
manner. The amended motion was seconded by Council Member
Buffa, and carried 5 -0. -
Council Member Buffa,expressed his extreme dismay that this.matter
had even been brought before Council, and reiterated that Triangle
Square had, at their own expense, spruced up the entire downtown
area by making an outstanding -looking project. He stated that many
cities pay for advertising banners because they enhance the overall
economic life of the city. Vice Mayor Humphrey stated he liked the
banners and thought they were beautiful; however, he was concerned
that Triangle Square had not followed. the proper procedures.
Mayor Genis commented that if the City does not enforce its
regulations in one case, it loses its ability to enforce those same
regulations in another' case. She cited a recent similar situation
where the court ruled against the City.
NEW BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented an ordinance pertaining to the
Replacement, Mainte- replacement, maintenance, and removal of trees within the public
nance and Removal right-of-way and related offenses. The Community Services
of Trees . Director reviewed the Agenda Report dated November 30, 1993.
MOTION On motion by Vice Mayor Humphrey, seconded by Council Member
Ordinance 93-20' Hornbuckle, Ordinance 93-20, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
Given First Reading COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA,
ADDING CHAPTER V TO TITLE 15 OF THE COSTA MESA
MUNICIPAL CODE AND REPEALING SECTIONS 15.10, 15.11
AND 15.12 OF THE COSTA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE
PERTAINING TO THE REPLACEMENT, MAINTENANCE,
REMOVAL OF TREES WITHIN THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
AND RELATED OFFENSES, was given first reading and passed
to second reading, with the following revisions: change Section 15-
137, Landscape Plans, Page 6 (circled Page 9) of the Agenda
Report, to reflect that the section applies only to projects over
$5,000.00; add to Section 131, 3:1 Tree Replacement Ratio, Page
5 (circled Page 8), "Convenience removal shall mean the removal
of a tree with a genus and species designated as a problem tree by
the Department of Community Services to include but is not limited
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to Ficus nitida, Ficus retusa, Fraxinus uhdei, Schinus
terebinthifolius, Cupania anacardiodes, and that such removal is
subject to a convenience tree removal agreement approved by the
Department."; change Section 15-125, Parks, Recreation Facilities
and Parkways Commission, Page 3 (circled Page 6), first paragraph
to read, "The Parks, Recreation Facilities and Parkways
Commission, or the`' City Council on appeal, shall determine:...";
and change Section 15-138, Preservation of Landmark Trees, on
Page 8 (circled Page 11), Line 7, to read, "The Commission by a
majority vote, or the City Council on . appeal, shall determine that
the... ", and Paragraph 2, to read, "The Parks, Recreation Facilities
and Parkways Commission, or the City Council on appeal, shall
reverse or modify...".
CITY ATTORNEY'S The City Attorney requested a closed session pursuant to
REPORTS/Request Government Code Sections 54956.9(a), 54956.9(b)(1), and 54957.6,
for Closed Session: to discuss the following items: Norene Lingle v. City of Costa
Lingle v. City; Mesa, et al., Orange County Superior Court Case No. 706941;
Disabled Access threat of litigation concerning City of Costa Mesa's enforcement of
Regulations; Police California Disabled Access Regulations (by letter from the State of
Association California, Department of Justice, office of the Attorney General,
dated October 15, 1993); and Negotiations with the Costa. Mesa
Police Association. Mayor Genis announced that closed session
would be held at the close of the Costa Mesa Redevelopment
Agency meeting.
CITY MANAGER'S The City Manager presented a resolution revising the pay ranges for
REPORT/Executive executive job classifications, and reviewed the Agenda Report dated
Job Classifications November 29, 1993.
Council Member Erickson complimented the plan as it considers the
City's ability to pay just as in private enterprise, and eliminates the
automatic salary increases which are instead, based on merit.
MOTION On motion by Council Member Erickson, seconded by Council
Resolution 93-92 Member Hornbuckle, and carried 5-0, Resolution 93-92, A
Adopted RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA, REVISING THE PAY RANGES
FOR EXECUTIVE JOB CLASSIFICATIONS, was adopted.
COUNCIL MEMBER Council Member Erickson reported that the County Board of
COMMENTS Supervisors would meet at 9:30 a.m., Tuesday, December, 7, 1993,
Cooperative Study to discuss the cooperative study on the Santa Ana River bridges for
on Bridges the final time, before the Environmental Impact Reportprocess
begins.
Bristol Street Council Member Buffa commented on the newspaper article
Bridge Incident regarding the young man who was contemplating taking his own life
by jumping off the Bristol Street pedestrian bridge and the
psychologists passing by who talked him out of it. He asked that
those persons be identified and perhaps formally recognized at the
next Council meeting.
Newport Boulevard Council Member Hornbuckle asked when the lane striping on
Striping northbound Newport Boulevard would be completed since it is
difficult to identify lanes. The Public Services Director responded
there are difficulties with smoothness of the pavement on northbound
lanes, and it should be completed shortly. Regarding the Costa
Soffer Aid to Mesa Civic Playhouse Patron's Association debt, Council Member
Patron's Association Hornbuckle asked if Mr. Soffer had fulfilled his offer to assist them
with fundraising. Mr. Soffer replied that it was his understanding
that the Patron's Association would contact him, and to date, he had
not heard from them.
ADJOURNMENT TO
REDEVELOPMENT At 11:50 p.m., the City Council temporarily adjourned in order for
AGENCY MEETING a special Redevelopment Agency meeting to convene.
MEETING RECON- At 12:10 a.m. , after the Redevelopment Agency meeting was
VENED/ADJOURN- adjourned, the Mayor reconvened the City Council meeting to
MENT TO CLOSED adjourn to closed session_ to discuss the items previously announced
SESSION by the City Attorney.
MEETING The Mayor reconvened the meeting at 12:35 a.m. , and the action
RECONVENED taken during closed session was announced.
City Attorney Regarding the threat of litigation by Triangle Square Joint Venture,
Reported on New Business Item No. 3, the City Attorney gave a report on merits
Triangle Square of the threat of litigation.
MOTION/Lingle v. In Norene Lingle v. City of Costa Mesa, et al., Orange County
City Settlement Superior Court Case No. 706941, by a vote of 5-0, the City
Authorized Attorney was authorized to settle in the amount recommended in his
confidential memorandum dated November 24, 1993.
MOTION/Directions Regarding the threat of litigation concerning City of Costa Mesa's
Given City Attorney enforcement of California Disabled Access Regulations, by a vote of
Re Disabled Access 5-0, directions were given to the City Attorney regarding
negotiations with the Attorney General.
MOTION/Directions Concerning negotiations with the Costa Mesa Police Association, by
Given City Manager a vote of 5-0, directions were given to the City Manager. Howard
Re Police Negotia- Perkins, Personnel Manager, was present during discussion of this
tions item.
ADJOURNMENT
The Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 12:40 p.m.
c
Mayor of the City of Costa Mesa
ATTEST:
Deputy City lerk of the City of Costa Mesa
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