HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/03/2003 - City CouncilREGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF COSTA MESA
March 3, 2003
The City Council of ;the City of Costa Mesa, California, met in
regular session March 3, 2003, 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 led by Mayor Pro Tem Steel, and invocation
by Dr. Martin Harris, Vanguard University.
ROLL CALL Council Members Present: Mayor Karen Robinson
Mayor Pro Tem Chris Steel
Council Member Gary Monahan
Council Member Libby Cowan
Council Member Allan Mansoor
Council Members Absent:
Officials Present:
None
City Manager Allan Roeder
Acting City Attorney Tom
Wood
Development Services Director
Donald Lamm
Public Services Director William
Morris
Associate Planner Mel Lee
Deputy City Clerk Julie Folcik
ORDINANCES AND A motion was made -,by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
RESOLUTIONS Mayor Pro Tem Steel,; -.!rid- --carried 5-0, to read all ordinances and
resolutions by -titielonly
PRESENTATION Mayor Robinson cor ratulated-:&rmando Rutledge, Transportation
Employee of the Division, P�!blic Service_ -Department, on being named Employee
Month of the Month. for -..March, -2 93,- iri_ recognition of his high quality of
service and diligent vrork-_pei-forriance. She thanked Mr. Rutledge
for his reliability in rasolving'issues, visiting locations, and meeting
with residents.
PUBLIC COMMENTS Brian Evans, Post Office Box 15070, Newport Beach, requested a
Evans Inquiry response to questions posed at the Council meeting of February
18, 2003. The City Attorney indicated that he had forwarded a
reply to Mr. Evans this date. Mr. Evans asked that
correspondence from the City Attorney's office be copied to the
City Council, and asked that any documents forwarded be signed
by Mr. Wood "under penalty of perjury." Mayor Robinson did not
recognize the necessity for that action.
Little League Opening Kim Pederson, 3154 ,Killarney Lane, Costa Mesa, thanked Mayor
Day Robinson and Mayor ,Pro Tem Steel for attending the opening day
of the little league season. He reported that due to a "glitch in the
system", the City's Parks Department had closed the playing fields
on that day, and asked that staff be directed to work with the
residents to prevent this type of occurrence. The City Manager
replied that the situation has been addressed, and the Recreation
Division and Parks Maintenance Division will meet to ensure that in
the future the condition of the fields are updated on a regular
basis.
1
1
1
Millard Comments Martin Millard, 2973 Harbor Boulevard, No. 264, Costa Mesa,
complained about the number of loitering day workers in front of
Dunn -Edwards Paints, 3015 Bristol Street, stating that he inquired
of the manager why City signs were not posted. The store
manager indicated that there had not been a consensus amongst
the business owners in his building to pursue placement of the
signs, and Mr. Millard asked Council to assist in resolving this
situation. He addressed pollution on the west side of the City
which is causing health problems for residents, and asked Council
to support a study of the soil, air, and water. Mr. Millard asked the
location of the $2 million slated for Costa Mesa schools. Council
Member Mansoor asked the City Manager to follow-up with Dunn -
Edwards Paints, asking the manager if he is willing to post the
new, "no soliciting" ordinance. He requested that the same sign be
posted at the Costa Mesa Job Center, as well as the businesses
across the street and west of the Job Center. The City Attorney
replied to Mr. Millard regarding the school funding by stating that
the $2 million is in the possession of the City Treasurer in an
interest bearing account.
Senior Center/Kohl's Anne Hogan-Shereshevsky, 2152 Elden Avenue, No. 1, Costa
Department Store Mesa, thanked the City Manager for the response she received
from the Fire Department regarding Costa Mesa Senior Center
emergency exit postings, and reported that an outside stairway at
the Senior Center has a locked gate midway. She asked about the
ice-skating rink and the bowling alley at the Mesa Verde Center,
questioning why they went downhill and are now to be replaced by
a Kohl's Department Store. She felt that young and old persons
need a place to go for recreation.
West Side Health Janice Davidson, 1982 Arnold Avenue, Costa Mesa, agreed with
Problems/CHOC Mr. Millard regarding health issues on the west side, and cited her
own problems. She objected to the Children's Hospital of Orange
County (CHOC) proposal to locate at the Rea School site, and
observed that other west side residents are also opposed.
EIR Process/Business Sandra Genis, 1586 Myrtlewood Street, Costa Mesa, objected to
Costs in Costa Mesa consultants replacing the City in the determination if impacts are
significant during the environmental review process. She urged
the City to develop a program, separate from the individual
environmental review of a project, to obtain a sense of what the
threshold should be. She referred to a recent study that was
conducted regarding the cost of doing business in various cities in
California that indicated that Costa Mesa is the least expensive city
in this state.
Daily Pilot John Feeney, 1154 Dorset Lane, Costa Mesa, suggested that the
City encourage the addition of another daily newspaper in the City
other than the Daily Pilot. He cited several examples of his
objections to the existing paper, noting that there are no
conservative columnists and the reporting is deteriorating.
Fairview Park Access Robert Graham, 3260 Dakota Avenue, Costa Mesa, commented
that Council's denial of additional parking at the lower portion of
Fairview Park discriminated against older and handicapped
citizens. He encouraged Council to consider the "big picture".
Kohl Department Store Cindy Brenneman, 1856 Elba Circle, Costa Mesa, thanked Mayor
(PA -02-06, ZA-02-08) Robinson for appealing the Planning Commission's approval of
PA-02-06/ZA-02-08 to build a Kohl's Department Store in the Mesa
Verde Center, 2701 Harbor Boulevard. She indicated that there
had been questions submitted to C. J. Segerstrom and Sons prior
to the Planning Commission study session that have not been
answered, and misinformation which needs to be clarified. She
urged public participation in the April 7, 2003, public hearing.
West Side Improve- Tamar Goldmann, 2324 College Drive, Costa Mesa, commented
ments that there are many nice, small homes at the end of West 19th
Street. She complimented the City, stating that what is being done
for the west side is "right on track", including code enforcement,
Police patrols, street repairs, and street closure to lessen traffic.
She suggested deleting the 19th Street bridge from the County's
Master Plan of Arterial Highways.
Somers Comments Heather Somers, 313 Robin Hood Lane, Costa Mesa, thanked
Mayor Robinson for appealing the Kohl Department Store project,
observing that bowling is a viable activity for young people who will
now go to Irvine and, Fountain Valley instead of using the Mesa
Verde Center. She addressed the 1901 Newport Boulevard
property, asking staff�to determine the total parking for both night
and weekend traffic. Ms. Somers thought that the proposed
project would be high density, and the impact to the neighborhood,
as well as adjacent, intersections, would be detrimental to the
community. She reported that Mayor Pro Tem Steel, in his
capacity as Chairman of the Redevelopment Agency, had
commented that redevelopment should no longer be considering
the commercial aspect, only residential, and Ms. Somers clarified
that redevelopment includes business, commercial and industrial,
as well as residential., Mayor Pro Tem Steel replied that there was
a "disconnect" in the headline for the story as reported in the Daily
Pilot and the story itself. The City Manager responded to a
question from Council Member Mansoor, by stating that an
analysis of the total parking for 1901 Newport Boulevard will be
included in the information presented to Council in connection with
the general plan amendment.
Mesa Verde Center The resident at 3075; Molokai Place, Costa Mesa, addressed the
Entertainment proposed Kohl Department Store, expressing concern that the
younger generation will be lacking in entertainment if the bowling
alley and ice skating rink are replaced with a department store. He
commented that the store goes against the Costa Mesa ideology of
uniqueness.
Chris Blank, 3160 Gibraltar Avenue, Costa Mesa, observed that
the Segerstrom's own the Mesa Verde Center land and have a
right to try to make money. He suggested that the City purchase
this recreational resource and utilize the space for bowling, roller
skating, or skateboarding. Regarding Mr. Graham's concerns
about Fairview Park parking, he proposed directional signs for
those who need additional assistance to park on Swan Drive.
CONSENT On motion by Council Member Cowan, seconded by Mayor
CALENDAR Robinson, and carried 5-0, all 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: Brandt Development
Ltd.; Jessica Hoefer; and Gary Turnbeau.
1
Alcoholic Beverage Request for Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) License from
License Pinot Provence, 686 Anton Boulevard, for person-to-person
transfer of a Type 47 ABC License (on -sale general for a bona
fide eating place).
WARRANTS The following warrants were approved:
Approved Warrant Warrant Resolution 1941, funding Payroll 304 for $2,043,783.38,
1941/Payroll 304 and City operating expenses for $569,339.05, including payroll
deductions.
Approved Warrant Warrant Resolution 1942, funding City operating expenses for
1942 $443,258.93.
REJECTED CLAIMS The following claims were rejected:
Brown Claim from Rachelle Brown (auto versus auto accident on City
road).
Gutierrez Claims from Leilani, Joe Anthony, and June Lee Gutierrez (auto
versus auto accident at Newport Blvd. and Wilson Street).
Rille Claim from Robin Rille (regarding Police Department arrest of
the claimant).
ADMINISTRATIVE Bids received for Electrical Upgrades and Modifications on the 3rd
ACTIONS/Awarded Floor Electrical System at City Hall, 77 Fair Drive, Project No. 03 -
City Hall 3rd Floor 01, are on file in the City Clerk's office. The contract was awarded
Upgrades, Project No. to Skip's Electric, Inc., 2610 West Orangethorpe Avenue, Fullerton,
03-01, to Skip's for $9,400.00, and the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk were
Electric authorized to sign on behalf of the City.
Awarded Modification Bids for Replacement and Modification of the Heating, Ventilation,
of H.V.A.C. at Fire and Air Conditioning (H.V.A.C.) System at Fire Station No. 2, 800
Station 2, Project No. Baker Street, Project No. 02-20, are on file in the City Clerk's
02-20, to Adelphia office. The contract was awarded to Adelphia, Inc., doing business
as Chandler's Air Conditioning .and Refrigeration, 1702 West Fifth
Street, Santa Ana, for $27,432.00, and the Mayor and Deputy City
Clerk were authorized to sign on behalf of the City.
Accepted Work for Construction of Joann Street and the Center Street Alley, Project
Joann Street and No. 02-03, was completed to the satisfaction of the Public Services
Center Street Alley, Director on December 31, 2002, by All American Asphalt, 400 East
Project No. 02-03, by Sixth Street, Corona. The work was accepted; the Deputy City
All American Asphalt Clerk was authorized to file a Notice of Completion; authorization
was given to release retention monies 35 days thereafter; the
Labor and Material Bond was ordered exonerated 7 months
thereafter; and the Performance Bond was ordered exonerated 6
months thereafter.
Accepted Work for 19th Street Traffic Signal Modifications at Anaheim Avenue and at
19th Street Signal Pomona Avenue, Project No. 02-02, were completed to the
Modifications, Project satisfaction of the Public Services Director on January 17, 2003, by
No. 02-02, by Inspection Engineering Construction, 2973 Harbor Boulevard,
Inspection Engineering Suite 516, Costa Mesa. The work was accepted; the Deputy City
Construction Clerk was authorized to file a Notice of Completion; authorization
was given to release retention monies 35 days thereafter; the
Labor and Material Bond was ordered exonerated 7 months
thereafter; and the Performance Bond was ordered exonerated 12
months thereafter.
_ S4
Accepted Work for CCTV Expansion Project II, Project No. 02-05, was completed to
CCTV Expansion, the satisfaction of the Public Services Director on February 7,
Project No. 02-05, 2003, by Moore Electrical Contracting, Inc., 463 North Smith
by Moore Electrical Avenue, Corona. The work was accepted; the Deputy City Clerk
Contracting was authorized to file a Notice of Completion; authorization was
given to release retention monies 35 days thereafter; the Labor
and Material Bond was ordered exonerated 7 months thereafter;
and the Performance Bond was ordered exonerated 12 months
thereafter.
Accepted Work for Joann -Miner Alley (No. 19) Improvements (from Fountain Way
Joann -Miner Alley, West to Fountain Way East), Project No. 02-14, were completed to
(No. 19) Improve- the satisfaction of the Public Services Director on January 30,
ments, Project No. 02- 2003, by S. Parker Engineering, Inc., 10059 Whippoorwill Avenue,
14, by S. Parker Fountain Valley. The work was accepted; the Deputy City Clerk
Engineering was authorized to file a Notice of Completion; authorization was
given to release retention monies 35 days thereafter; the Labor
and Material Bond was ordered exonerated 7 months thereafter;
and the Performance. Bond was ordered exonerated 12 months
thereafter.
Approved Request Request for extension of a leave of absence was approved for
for Leave Extension Chris Messina, Costa Mesa Police Department, to May 16, 2003.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced the public hearing, continued
Appeal of PA -02-44, from the meeting of February 18, 2003, to consider an application
Elowe/Simonian from Council Member Monahan appealing the Planning
Commission's denial of Planning Application PA -02-44 for Ed
Elowe, authorized agent for Jennifer Simonian, to construct a two-
story, 6,400 square -foot mini -storage building with a manager's
unit; with variances from building setbacks from residentially -zoned
property (50 feet required; 30 feet proposed); and parking (4
spaces required; 3 spaces proposed), located at 1676 Tustin
Avenue in a C1 zone. Environmental Determination: Exempt.
Communications were received from Jennifer and Mike Simonian,
informing Council of the changes which have been made to
address the areas of concern; Roger C. Summers, 1663 Aliso
Avenue, Costa Mesa, President, Costa Mesa Heights
Homeowner's Association, stating that the project is out of
character for the residential neighborhood which borders it on three
sides; and a petition containing 35 signatures, citing parking
issues, traffic flow problems, and asserting that a single -story office
or retail building would be better suited for the location. Council
Member Monahan encouraged the discussion of this property and
other properties like it that are caught in the middle between
commercial and residential. For the record, Mayor Robinson
indicated that she had asked the City Attorney at the study session
prior to the Council meeting if the discussion could go into other
alternatives. The City Attorney clarified that since the item poses a
potential change in the general plan and has not been agendized
for this evening, the Brown Act does limit the remarks. He
suggested as the most appropriate action a direction to staff to
bring back a report. The Associate Planner reviewed the agenda
report.
Ed Elowe, 612 Poppy Avenue, Corona del Mar, authorized agent
for Jennifer Simonian', offered to increase the front setback to 40
feet and reduce the density of the project by approximately two
units, creating extra parking, turnaround space, and providing an
improved front elevation to the street. He also volunteered to
increase the landscape trees and other buffers, and to limit the
1
1
1
1
business hours to those that are acceptable to the neighbors. Mr.
Elowe indicated that the only other financially feasible solution
would be .to rezone the property to residential. He responded to
questions from Council.
Martin Millard, 2973, Harbor Boulevard, No. 264, Costa Mesa,
observed that this is a "spot zoning" situation wherein a residential
neighborhood has a small piece of commercial property, and he
believed that the proposed usage would be incorrect. He
encouraged placing homes on the property that would be good for
the City and the applicant.
Martin J. Chip Stassel, 450 Cambridge Circle, Costa Mesa,
reported that all the homes in the area adjacent to the project will
be impacted by the commercial activity. He felt that the mini -
storage building would be a misdirected and inappropriate use of
the property, and thought that a rear buffer would be imperative.
Heather Somers, 313 Robin Hood Lane, Costa Mesa, addressed
questions which were not answered by the agenda report, stating
that she would like to know the total square footage and the
number of related facilities; the highest and best use for the site
should be researched, as well as the transition zone along 17th
Street; and suggested another type of activity be considered for
the property since mini -storage facilities do not pay sales tax. Ms.
Somers proposed that Council consider supporting the Planning
Commission findings that do not support this type of use for that
particular zone.
Grant McNiff, 1672 Tustin Avenue, Costa Mesa, whose property
line is adjacent to the subject property, felt that small warehouses
do not fit in the neighborhood. He proposed conducting a traffic
study prior to any action.
Chris Ota, 1671 Tustin Avenue, Costa Mesa, addressed the
above-mentioned petition that contains 35 signatures opposing this
application, stating that there are 24 storage facilities within a three
and one-half mile of this area.
Beth Refakes, 320 Magnolia Street, Costa Mesa, stated that the
project is ill conceived and another example of poor planning. She
felt that a public storage facility in this location is not harmonious
nor compatible with the surrounding neighborhood, suggested
denying the project because it is inappropriate for the location and
commented that the property is more suited for low -traffic retail or
residential use. She also felt that public storage facilities should be
located in an industrial area, not a pedestrian friendly, retail
shopping area next to single-family residences; and that storage
facilities are a blight on residential neighborhoods, impact property
values, and intrude on the privacy of nearby residents.
Roger Summers, 1663 Aliso Avenue, Costa Mesa, President,
Costa Mesa Heights Homeowner's Association, reported that
residents in his neighborhood unanimously support denial of this
project. He suggested reworking the proposed usage, and offered
to participate in the process.
Frank Lyazidi, 1670 Tustin Avenue, Costa Mesa, felt the project is
inappropriate, and noted the potential loss of his privacy. He
observed that there are a number of children in the area that would
be endangered by the amount of traffic generated by the proposed
project.
Ed Elowe responded to comments made by previous speakers by
pointing out that the; property to the rear of the site is zoned
commercial, not residential. He addressed the turn -around area by
stating that it will be safe and for medium-sized vehicles, and
reported that the trash enclosure will be located towards the front
of the property.
There being no other speakers, the Mayor closed the public
hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Steel indicated that he had commented to the
applicant that a rezone might be appropriate which could be a
better value for the property, and stated that he would support a
motion for rezone. Mayor Robinson observed that this project is
wrong for this area, noting that the property is too narrow to be
safe for safety vehicles, even with the proposed changes, and
supported the residential rezone option.
Council Member Mansoor expressed concern with the two-story
aspect of the project, and supported investigating a single -story
option, possibly office or residential. He asked that if alternate
options are investigated, that staff make the process as smooth as
possible.
Council Member Monahan confirmed with staff that the deadline
for the next General Plan Hearing Schedule does not apply if the
request is Council directed.
MOTION/Adopted A motion was made by Mayor Robinson, seconded by Mayor Pro
Resolution 03-13 Tem Steel, and carried 4-1, Council Member Cowan voting no, to
Denying PA -02-44 uphold the Planning Commission's denial by adopting Resolution
03-13, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA, DENYING PLANNING
APPLICATION PA -02-44, based on the findings in Exhibit "A", and
directing staff to return with information about rezoning the property
to residential.
Council Member Cowan opposed the motion, stating that there is a
clearly defined commercial zone in that area, and she thought that
there is always an issue of buffering from one use to another. She
found the proposed use an appropriate buffered use, particularly
with a few modifications to the conditions of approval, such as the
hours of customer access.
RECESS The Mayor declared a recess at 8:00 p.m., and reconvened the
meeting at 8:10 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced that this is the time and place
Appeal of ZA-02-58, set for the public hearing to consider an application from Council
Crowe Member Mansoor appealing the Planning Commission's approval
of Minor Conditional Use Permit ZA-02-58 for John W. Crowe, to
allow outdoor automobile storage for Pacific Coast Auto, located at
837 West 17th Street in an MG zone. Environmental
Determination: Exempt. Mayor Robinson reported that a request
to continue this item had been received from the applicant.
Council Member Mansoor indicated his willingness to continue the
item, stating that he had requested the appeal to add landscaping
to break up the impact of stored vehicles, the building in general,
and to improve the general appearance of the property with
respect to the surrounding neighborhood.
1
1
1
MOTION/Continued A motion was made by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
to March 17, 2003 Mayor Robinson, and carried 5-0, to continue this public hearing to
the meeting of March 17, 2003.
PUBLIC HEARING The Deputy City Clerk announced that this is the time and place
PA -02-53, Manion set for the public hearing to consider an application from Eric Katz,
Latham & Watkins, LLP, authorized agent for Eleanor Manion,
appealing the Planning Commission's denial of Planning
Application PA -02-53, for a request for reasonable accommodation
to allow a nine -person alcohol/drug rehabilitation facility (i.e., sober
living group home) in an existing single-family residence, located at
3138 Cork Lane in an R1 zone. Environmental Determination:
Exempt. The Affidavits of Mailing and Publishing are on file in the
City Clerk's office. Communications in opposition were received
from Gil and Mari Beas, 3157 Sharon Lane, Costa Mesa; Mr. and
Mrs. Greg Levanas, no address given; Fred and Elaine Lee, no
address given; Don Remmel, 1372 Garlingford Street, Costa Mesa;
Bill Huang, 1218 McCormack Lane, Costa Mesa; James Wagner,
no address given; Marybeth Brophy, 1276 Londonderry Street,
Costa Mesa; Dave Manning, 1344 Garlingford Street, Costa Mesa;
Darleen JeyaRajah, 1244 Londonderry Street, Costa Mesa; and
Henry Gutierrez, no address given. The Associate Planner
summarized the agenda report.
Eric Katz, Latham & Watkins, LLP, 650 Town Center Drive, Suite
2000, Costa Mesa, representing the applicant, provided a
background on the property and Eleanor Manion, stating that she
is a 79 -year-old nurse who has been operating Dove Cottage for
about ten years. He mentioned confusion regarding the difference
between a sober living home and a rehabilitation home, defining a
sober living home as a place where residents are at least 30 -days
sober, and must stay clean and sober for their entire stay, as well
as employed. Mr. Katz stressed that residents stay at the home for
months at a time, and addressed the nine factors to be considered
by Council. He responded to questions from Council.
Laura Morgan, Woodruff, Spradlin, and Smart, 701 South Parker
Street, Suite 8000, Orange, representing the City, clarified several
points made by Mr. Katz on behalf of the applicant, concurring with
Council Member Cowan that the City's position is that the house is
not a single housekeeping unit, and because the application is
nonconforming, the applicant is going through the City process to
legalize the operation.
Mayor Robinson confirmed with Mr. Katz that all the evidence is in
Council's possession supporting the applicant's belief that the
factors weigh in favor of granting this reasonable accommodation
request.
Diane Hill, 1288 Londonderry Street, Costa Mesa, coordinator of
the Neighborhood Watch Program in her area, related that the
conditions described in connection with 3138 Cork Lane are not
representative of the balance of that area. She supported the
concept of sober living homes that live up to the criteria defining
them and that are good neighbors but expressed concern about
the actions and conditions of the subject home in the ten years it
has been in operation.
Kim Pederson, 3154 Killarney Lane, Costa Mesa, agreed that
there might be a need for Dove Cottage but not the need for a
"hotel". He thought that Mr. Katz was vague about the resident's
activities.
Kai Giffin, owner Independent Processing Services, 2210-D Marine
Avenue, Gardena, largest independent provider of drug and
alcohol rehabilitation facilities services to Los Angeles and Orange
County, objected to the phrase "alcohol/drug rehabilitation facility"
used to describe 3138 Cork Lane, suggesting that the City should
derive a common term which would be applied to all disabilities.
Mary Stockton, 1210 Londonderry Street, Costa Mesa, though it
ridiculous that the City, would bring in more alcoholics. She thought
that it is too much to: expect for an elderly lady to manage eight
alcoholics.
Hattie Valdivia, 3153 'Cork Lane, Costa Mesa, reported that Cork
Lane is a beautiful, well -kept street except for the subject property
at 3138 Cork Lane.
Charlotte Molina, 3130 Bray Lane, Costa Mesa, objected to the
drug paraphernalia found in front of her home, and asked for
documentation regarding the persons that the home has
successfully assisted.,
Kellie Smith, 3133 Cork Lane, Costa Mesa, listed the trash left on
her front yard by residents of Dove Cottage, and expressed
concern regarding the transient nature of the business.
Patricia Simmons, a resident on Cork Lane, showed photographs
of 3138 Cork Lane and compared it to other neighborhood homes
that are well maintained.
Larry Weichman, 1175 Boise Way, Costa Mesa, stated that a
"neighborhood nuisance" will be created if more than six residents
are allowed on the subject property. He reported that the
California Attorney General opined that the location of a licensed
care facility serving six or fewer persons is not required to be
disclosed under California law.
Paul Hill, 1288 Londonderry Street, Costa Mesa, indicated that the
subject home is not representative of the area, and stated that Mrs.
Manion "charges" residents of the home, not relying on donations.
Jim Wagner, 3150 Bray Lane, Costa Mesa, believed that allowing
six persons in the home is a reasonable accommodation, but did
not understand why two or more additional persons would be,a
problem.
Heather Somers, 313 Robin Hood Lane, Costa Mesa, addressed
the status for the reasonable accommodation request, noting that
a disability must be quantifiable by data. She asked if the facility is
compliant under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
standards, Title 24; and suggested that compliance be imposed via
a conditional use permit. Ms. Somers also inquired if a Transient
Occupancy Tax (TOT) had been imposed on the facility.
There being no other speakers, the Mayor closed the public
hearing.
Laura Morgan, Woodruff, Spradlin, and Smart, indicated that she
did not believe that ADA standards would pertain to this
application.
e
S9
Mayor Robinson asked if staff had received, since the Planning
Commission hearing, any further information responding to the
questions and concerns raised in the staff report or by the
Commissioners. The Associate Planner responded in the
negative.
MOTION/Adopted A motion was made by Council Member Cowan, seconded by
Resolution 03-14, Mayor Pro Tem Steel, and carried 5-0, to uphold the Planning
Denying PA -02-53 Commission's denial by adopting Resolution 03-14, A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COSTA
MESA, CALIFORNIA, DENYING PLANNING APPLICATION PA -
02 -53, based on the findings in Exhibit "A".
Council Member Cowan did not understand what would be
accomplished by adding the extra residents. She thought that if
the purpose of the home is to provide a sober living environment, it
can be done for six as well as eight, and the reasonable
accommodation for a variance in the code is not warranted. She
stated that she had not heard any evidence that would indicate that
anyone is being denied accommodation by maintaining the code of
six or fewer.
Mayor Robinson supported the motion, stating that Dove Cottage
provides a valuable service for those it houses and the community
benefits by the sobriety of the residents. She indicated that the
issue is whether Dove Cottage's request for an accommodation to
have eight residents as opposed to six under the current code is
reasonable. She did not believe that evidence had been presented
that there is a special need for the additional residents. Mayor
Robinson noted the impact on the surrounding neighborhood,
including the calls made to police for service, and mentioned that
there are four other like homes in the vicinity. She felt that the
house is a transitory, interactive group of people rather than a
"single housekeeping unit".
OLD BUSINESS The Deputy City Clerk presented from the meeting of February 18,
Appointment of 2003, second reading and adoption of Ordinance 03-2, regarding
Commissions, Boards . City Council appointment of commissions, boards, and
committees; Council Policy 000-2.5, containing additional
commissioner appointment procedures; and amendment to
Council Policy 000-2, governing committees and boards. The
Assistant City Attorney reviewed the agenda report, and responded
to questions from Council.
Council Member Monahan supported a requirement and
verification of Costa Mesa residency and voting status. Council
Member Cowan, addressing the requirement to be a "qualified
elector", called it meaningless unless the person actually votes,
and stated that she would not support that condition for any of the
commissions or committees as residency alone should be
sufficient. Mayor Robinson thought that the appointments should
be made from among persons who have submitted applications.
Council Member Cowan agreed that each Council Member had an
obligation to review the applications but felt that to identify that
those are the only ones from which to choose ties the hands of
individual members. Council Member Monahan agreed with
Council Member Cowan requiring residency as the qualification.
Council Member Mansoor concurred that the appointments should
be made from a submitted list of applications, and thought that the
voting status of potential commissioners should be verified. Mayor
Pro Tem Steel agreed with Council Member Mansoor.
Heather Somers, 313 Robin Hood Lane, Costa Mesa, was
appalled at the proposed practice, charging that Council did not
want to have a United States citizen, provable by the fact that they
are a voting citizen', as a sworn officer of the City. She
commended the Mayor for her support of the application process.
Beth Refakes, 320 Magnolia Street, Costa Mesa, supported a
minimum residency requirement, and pointed out that not having
an application process will deter residents from applying. She felt
that the process previously employed was more open and provided
an opportunity to go through the interview process.
Mayor Pro Tem Steel appreciated Ms. Somers comments and her
support of him regarding actions in terms of the procedures and
the electorate.
Motion to Appoint A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Steel to require that
Members Died appointees to the committees and the commissions be a member
of the electorate and a resident of the City. The motion died for
lack of a second.
Motion to Deny A motion was made by Mayor Robinson to deny the
Second Reading Died recommendation to adopt the ordinance, based on that fact that
the public is not given the opportunity to participate in the process,
directing staff to come back with a process that permits individual
Council nominations with a three-fifths vote of support and a three-
fifths vote to remove, and includes an application process where
Council may only select from the applications received by a given
deadline, stipulating that the interview process being done in an
open forum. The motion died for lack of a second.
Mayor Robinson qualified her position stating she felt that the
public deserves access to information regarding the candidates
who would be holding these public positions, and that Council has
the responsibility to keep the process open. She clarified that her
motion suggests that each member has a name to submit, and
unless three people say no, the name is approved. Council
Member Monahan supported the application process but was
concerned about the three-fifths vote, preferring the four-fifths.
MOTION/Adopted A motion was made by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
Ordinance 03-2 Council Member Cowan, and carried 3-2, Mayor Robinson and
Mayor Pro Tem Steel voting no, to give second reading to and
adopt Ordinance 03-2: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
TITLES 2, 12, AND 13 OF THE COSTA MESA MUNICIPAL CODE
REGARDING CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENT OF COMMIS-
SIONS, BOARDS, AND COMMITTEES.
MOTION/Approved A motion was made 'by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
Revisions to Council Council Member Cowan, and carried 5-0, to approve revisions to
Policy 000-5 Council Policy 000-2.5, to include that the commission
appointments must be made from among persons who have
submitted applications.
MOTION/Approved A motion was made by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
Revisions to Council Mayor Robinson, and carried 5-0, to approve revisions to proposed
Policy 000-2.5 Council Policy 000-2.5, to include that the applicants must be
residents of the City of Costa Mesa and qualified electors of the
City, that this information will be verified upon application or
appointment, and the qualifications must be maintained during the
term of the commissioner or it will be cause for removal.
MOTION/Adopted A motion was made by Council Member Monahan, seconded by
Revised Policy Council Member Mansoor, and carried 3-2, Mayor Robinson and
000-2.5 Mayor Pro Tem Steel voting no, to adopt Council Policy 000-2.5,
as revised.
MOTION/Adopted
A motion was made by Council Member Cowan, seconded by
Amendment to Council
Policy 000-2
Council Member Monahan, and carried 4-1, Mayor Pro Tem Steel
voting no, to adopt the amendment to Council Policy 000-2.
NEW BUSINESS
The Deputy City Clerk presented Annual Review No. 1 of the 2000
2000 General Plan
General Plan. The Development Services Director summarized
the agenda report.
Robert Graham, 3260 Dakota Avenue, Costa Mesa, suggested
that the City review the addition of a bridge at 19th Street. He
addressed the possible annexation by the City of Newport Beach
of the Santa Ana Heights unincorporated area, Santa Ana Country
Club, and neighboring areas,- accusing Council of giving the land
away. The City Manager- replier_ that contrary to Mr. Graham's
comments, Council -supported -annexation of those areas to Costa
Mesa, the application--went"_:#o ` the Local Agency Formation
Commission (LAFCOI.-wtip=took _action approving the annexation,
and the' pro perty_-u:i,t..ers within the area overrode the
determination. He—ativise i.that-staff recommended that Costa
Mesa be involved in -any-and-all.-discussions between the property
owners and the City .of Newport Beach. The City Manager
responded to Mayor Pro Tem Steel that representatives from the
Santa Ana Country Club have been straightforward in their desire
to annex to the City of Newport Beach. Mayor Robinson reiterated
that City Council has done everything in its power to annex the
property, and the process allowed the residents to override
Council's action.
MOTION/Received A motion was made by Council Member Cowan, seconded by
and Filed Mayor Robinson, and carried 5-0, to receive and file Annual
Review No. 1 of the 2000 General Plan.
COUNCIL Council Member Monahan indicated that he had been asked by
COMMENTS Diane Pritchett from the Tourism Council to announce that the
Costa Mesa Costa Mesa Conference and Visitors Bureau has been honored at
Conference and the Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association, receiving two
Visitor Bureau Awards awards in the 2002 Adrienne Advertising International Travel
Awards Competition: the only gold merit award in the direct mail
travel trade competition; and a silver merit award in the brochure
travel sales category.
Thanks to Outgoing Mayor Pro Tem Steel thanked the outgoing commissioners from
Commissioners the Parks and Recreation Commission Kim Pederson, Martha
Johnson, and Bob Love; and from the Planning Commission
Eleanor Egan, and Walt Davenport. He expressed concern
regarding the disabled parking at Fairview Park, and is looking for
Redevelopment a better approach to accommodate everyone. He announced the
Agency March 10, 2003, Redevelopment Agency meeting at the
Neighborhood Community Center, 1845 Park Avenue. He
appreciated John Feeney's comments regarding the Daily Pilot,
and reiterated that there are three disconnects, one between the
editors and electorate; secondly between the reporters, who write
good stories as a whole, and the editors who write the bylines and
headlines; and thirdly between the publisher and the editors.
Costa Mesa Citizen's Mayor Robinson announced that Fire Chief Jim Ellis and City staff
Corps will conduct a town hall meeting on March 27, 2003, to discuss the
establishment of the' Costa Mesa Citizen's Corps, which is a
collaboration between City Fire and Police services and residents
to protect against acts of terrorism and local crime. She
Henry's Marketplace encouraged everyone to participate. Mayor Robinson recognized
Donation the $10,000.00 donation by Henry's Marketplace, 3030 Harbor
Boulevard, to the Costa Mesa Community Foundation, which will
be used to purchase park equipment for Ketchum-Liebolt Park.
ADJOURNMENT The Mayor declared the meeting adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
ayor of the City of Costa Mesa
ATTEST:
Depu y City Clerk of the City of Costa Mesa
1
I.