02-23-1999 Council Minutes
APPROVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON MARCH 9, 1999
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES ORANGE, CALIFORNIA
OF A REGULAR MEETING February 23, 1999
The City Council of the City of Orange, California convened on February 23,1999 at 4:30 p.m.
in a Regular Meeting in the Council Chambers, 300 E. Chapman Avenue, Orange, California.
4:30 P.M. SESSION
1. OPENING
1.1 INVOCATION
Pastor Rod Schorr, Covenant Community Church
1.2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Led by Councilman Alvarez
1.3 ROLL CALL
PRESENT - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ABSENT - None
1.4 PRESENTATIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS/ PROCLAMATIONS
Employee Recognition Service Awards were presented by the City Manager to David
Churnock, Anthony Panzica, III, John Pistorino, Shawn Travis, Elvira Zorola, Clark
Smith, Virginia Miscione, Linnea 'Linn' Felthaus, Stanley 'Stan' Gabel, Jr., and Laura
Hooks. (C2500.J.4.18)
Recognition was given to Dave Rudat, City Manager, and Don Blake, recipients of the
1998 Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America, Orange County Council.
Recognition was given to Frank Page who received the Visionary Award on February 11,
1999 from the Transportation Corridor Agency for his instrumental contributions as a
consensus builder which led to the development of TCA and the construction of the
Eastern Transportation Corridor. Mayor Coontz displayed a plaque which had been
presented to Frank Page and Hamid Bahadori, Traffic Engineer, relative to the recent
opening ofthe west leg of the Eastern Transportation Corridor.
A proclamation was presented to Peggy Roberts, 1999 Central County Regional
Occupational Program (ROP) Business Leader of the Year in Orange.
Mayor Coontz announced that early morning radio talk show hosts, Mark and Brian, have
expressed interest in coming back to Orange to re-instigate a parade in the Orange Plaza
on November 26, 1999.
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February 23, 1999
1.4 PRESENTATIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS/ PROCLAMATIONS (Continued)
Mayor Coontz announced that dedication ceremonies for McPherson Athletic Facility
Phase II (South Sunrise Little League) will occur at 9:00 a.m. and the Handy Park
Concession Building dedication (North Sunrise Little League) will occur at 12:00 p.m.,
both on Saturday, March 6th.
Mayor Coontz announced that in Executive Session at the February 9, 1999 meeting,
Council approved the City Manager's decision to hire Acting Police Chief Andy Romero
as the City's permanent Police Chief. Chief Romero fit the profile and is appreciated by
the department and the community. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Murphy, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
NOES: Slater
COUNCILMAN ALVAREZ COMMENTED FOR THE RECORD: "My support for Chief Romero
was actually conditional. There were some things that I expressed concerns concerning
personnel at the Police Department that I expressed to the Council and the City Manager.
I can't go into it in detail because it is a personnel matter. But, I expressed my concerns,
and they listened to them.
One of the things I can assure you that was a condition that I asked for is that Chief
Romero go through the same background check that Chief Bonacker did, our Fire Chief,
because it is, what I saw, an outstanding type of a background check and quite frankly, I
was pulling for somebody in the Fire Department and Chief Bonacker was the one that
rose to the top, because he was the best man. And that is why I asked for that as part of
the conditions of my support for Chief Romero.
Thirdly, I had asked that a Career Development Program be installed for the Police
Department. I was able to obtain one through the help of my appointment that was on the
Citizen's Committee. Let me read this real quickly, its mission philosophy. Basically, a
Career Development Program for the Police Department recognizes that the most
valuable asset to the Police Department are the policemen. And that, what I would like to
see, is for us to develop through our new Police Chief future leaders within the Police
Department so that one day, as they make their way through the curve ladders and
through incentives, both monetary and otherwise, that one day we will have a Police
Chief that would have started with the Police Department at the very bottom and made it
to the top. I think that would be a tremendous achievement for all of us. I am sitting next
to a man that has done that with our Fire Department. So, it is very important for me to
see that happen.
A fourth condition was that we offer Chief Romero a contract. And this was actually put
forward by Mayor pro tern Spurgeon. The reason for that basically is because of our
history of the past year of going through the Robertson's hearings. I thought it was
important for Chief Romero to know that we have his support and we want it to go
beyond one or two years. Actually, I want it for Chief Romero. The significance of that
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
1.4 PRESENTATIONS/ ANNOUNCEMENTS/ PROCLAMATIONS (Continued)
basically to me was to bring some stability to the Department. As long as I have lived
here is Orange in 42 years, people have always been proud of the Orange Police
Department. We should always be proud of that, and I want to see Chief Romero take it
to a new level.
And finally, I would like to see the Citizen's Committee come back one last time. I had
proposed this back last year in September. I think it is important for that Committee to
meet with Chief Romero too and discuss their concerns as far as what they would like to
see happen in this community. And, with those, as I have expressed it to the members of
the City Council and our City Manager, I look forward to working with Chief Romero. I
think he is going to be an outstanding person for the City.
One thing I didn't mention was something I really don't mention, basically, as a
Councilman, is my heritage as a hispanic here in the City of Orange. And I think that is
an added bonus. Chief Romero really brings for the first time in our history an hispanic
leader that we are all very proud of. He has attained this now as Police Chief of the City
of Orange and I invite everybody to take the time to meet him. And with that, that was
for the record."
Mayor Coontz thanked Councilman Alvarez for speaking to the issues and suggestions
proposed at the Executive Session by each member of the Council regarding the hiring of
Chief Romero. However, this is a personnel decision behind closed doors and the City
Council does not speak to these personnel matters out in public. The City Manager
proposed that the officers in the Police Department have the training to move up so the
City can be assured of good representation at the higher level in the future. Chief
Romero is the first Police Chief the City has had that can speak Spanish. In response to
Mayor Coontz, the City Manager explained the background check process required by
State Law for Chief of Police, Police Officers and other requirements for City employees
and volunteers.
Mayor pro tern Spurgeon expressed his support for Chief Romero, indicating it has
become evident over the past seven months that Chief Romero has stabilized the Police
Department and continues to do so. One of the charges for Chief Romero is to position
the Police Department for its next Chief into the next century. Support was expressed for
the Citizen's Committee coming back to meet with Chief Romero relative to goals.
Councilman Murphy expressed his confidence and support for Chief Romero, who came
to the City of Orange and immediately motivated the Police Department and gained their
respect.
Councilman Slater indicated the reason he voted no was he really was looking for
someone that more closely resembled the management philosophy of former Police Chief
John Robertson who was fired on a 3-2 vote. He will abide by Council's decision and
will support Chief Romero and the Police Department 100%.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
2.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Tape 1122
Carole Walters, (address on file), congratulated Chief Romero, expressing fear that she
has of some police officers.
Norm Phillips, commented on Section 54950 of the Brown Act relative to public agencies
aiding in the conduct of people's business and the amount of time allowed for public
speaking at Council meetings.
3.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Tape 1253
3.1 Declaration of City Clerk, Cassandra J. Cathcart, declaring posting of City Council
agenda of a regular meeting of February 23, 1999 at Orange Civic Center, Main
Library at 101 N. Center Street, Police facility at 1107 North Batavia, the
Eisenhower Park Bulletin Board, and summarized on Time-Warner
Communications, all of said locations being in the City of Orange and freely
accessible to members of the public at least 72 hours before commencement of said
regular meeting.
ACTION: Accepted Declaration of Agenda Posting and authorized its retention as a
public record in the Office of the City Clerk.
3.2 Request Council Confirmation of warrant registers dated February 4 and 11, 1999.
ACTION:
Approved.
3.3 Request approval of City Council Minutes, Regular Meeting of February 9, 1999.
ACTION:
Approved.
3.4 Consideration to waive reading in full of all ordinances on the Agenda.
ACTION:
Approved.
AGREEMENTS
3.5 A proposal to approve a Cooperative Agreement with the County of Orange to
jointly participate in a slurry seal project administered by the County of Orange.
(A2100.0 AGR-3203)
SUMMARY: Join with the County of Orange to slurry seal six streets partly located in
the City of Orange and County of Orange. The project would be administered by the
County of Orange. The estimated City share would not exceed $10,800.
ACTION: Authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to execute County of Orange
Agreement No. D99-0 lion behalf of the City of Orange.
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
FISCAL IMP ACT: Funds are budgeted in the Capital Improvement Program and
available in the following account: $10,800.00 262-5021-483300-3120 (Street
Maintenance)
ALIGNMENT STUDY
3.6 East Chapman Avenue Alignment Study from Crawford Canyon Road to
Equestrian Drive. (S4000.S.3)
SUMMARY: The City Council authorized an alignment study and right-of-way
acquisition for East Chapman Avenue as part of the 1996-97 Capital Improvement
Program. A Traffic Study has been prepared to analyze future traffic volumes on East
Chapman Avenue between Crawford Canyon Road and Equestrian Drive.
ACTION: Received and filed.
FISCAL IMPACT: None.
BIDS
3.7 Award of Contract - Bid No. 989-19; Project SP-3259; ADA Wheelchair Access
Ramps Various Locations (Fiscal Year 1998-99). (A2100.0 AGR-3204)
SUMMARY: This project will provide for construction of wheelchair access ramps
conforming to the requirements of Americans with Disabilities Act at various locations.
The City Council previously approved advertisement on December 8, 1998. The bid
opening was held on February 1, 1999. Twelve formal bids were received for this project
ranging from $169,592.40 to $310,919.40. C. J. Construction, Inc. was apparent low
bidder. C. 1. Construction, Inc. failed to meet the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise
(DBE) participation goal of twelve percent (12%) as required by the project
specifications. Therefore, the bid received form C. J. Construction, Inc. is deemed non-
responsIve.
ACTION: 1) Reject the bid received from C. J. Construction, Inc., the apparent low
bidder, as non-responsive. 2) Accept Bid No. 989-19 in the amount of $177,443.90 from
the second low bidder, Cooper Backhoe and Equipment, Inc., 1100 Irvine Blvd. #509,
Tustin, CA 92780 and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the contract.
FISCAL IMP ACT: Funds are budgeted and available in the following account: 310-
9645-483300-1328 $188,000.00 (Community Development Block Grant Funds-
ADA Improvements).
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
3.8 CLAIMS FOR DAMAGES (C3200.0)
a. Michael & Ronnette Coates/PCS Internet
ACTION: Denied claim for damages and referred to City Attorney and Adjuster.
CONTRACTS
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEPARATELY)
3.9 Renewal of a contract for employee dental insurance through Pacificare Insurance
Companies effective January 1, 1999 - December 31, 1999 for a cost of $73,000.
(A2100.0 AGR-2939.1)
SUMMARY: The City has been using Pacificare Dental Program since 1997 as one of
the dental plans offered in the City Benefit program to all employees.
FISCAL IMP ACT: None.
Discussion: Carole Walters, (address on file), asked if the dental insurance will be an
increase for employees? The Personnel Analyst explained this is a yearly contract
renewal.
MOTION - Slater
SECOND - Alvarez
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to approve renewal of contract to continue the dental program provided by
Pacificare for a cost of $73,000 annually.
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEP ARATEL Y)
3.10 Change Order No.1 to Contract No. 3084 (Bid No. 978-52) for installation of street
lighting in the Old Towne area, and declaration of surplus light poles and fixtures to
be made available to the public. (A2100.0 AGR-3084)
SUMMARY: The ongoing street lighting project in the Old Towne area will replace 75
existing light poles and fixtures. This equipment must be declared surplus by the City
Council to be made available to the public. Also, to relocate two of the installed service
boxes to more appropriate locations, there is a need to execute a contract change order in
the amount of$14,235.28 for Bid No. 978-52 with Highlight Electric, Inc.
FISCAL IMPACT: $14,235.28 is available utilizing TSIP Area "B" - West Orange
Street Light Installation Account No. 284-5032-483100-1818 funds.
NOTE: Councilman Slater abstained on this item due to a property interest within the
area where the street lights will be located and left the Council dais.
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
Mayor Coontz expressed concern that street lights in other areas of the City not being up
to par, noting she had received calls regarding the street lights at the corner of Lincoln
and Collins. The Director of Public Works was asked what kind of a master plan strategy
the City has to place or replace lights in the City, and what his evaluation is of the quality
and standard of lighting throughout the City, adding that the City needs to look at street
lighting relative to traffic safety and crime prevention.
The Director of Public Works explained funds have been budgeted in the Capital
Improvement Program on a limited basis for street lighting work. Other than the current
street lighting project, there have been no comprehensive City initiated lighting program
or project. On arterial roadways, where traffic safety issues are most related, the City's
approach historically has been minimal, providing some lighting at intersections and
occasional mid-block lights. It does not comply with any type of lighting standard that is
present in the industry for arterial street lighting. The best way to proceed would be to
develop a Master Plan of Lighting which would identify the illumination levels
appropriate on the various classes of roadways, the cost and number of lights required,
and the amount of money available on an annual basis to implement the Plan.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Murphy
AYES - Murphy, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ABSENT - Slater
Moved to authorize a contract change order in the amount of$14,235.28 for Contract No.
3084 (Bid No. 978-52) with Highlight Electric, Inc.; declare the existing light poles and
fixtures, which are to be removed through Contract No. 3084 as surplus material which
could be made available to the public; direct staff from the Public Works Department,
City Attorney's office and the City's Purchasing Officer to develop legal procedures and
documentation for release of this surplus equipment to the public; and asked that the City
Manager consider a Master Plan of Lighting for the Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
budget to address the lighting needs through out the City for safety and crime prevention
purposes.
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEPARATELY)
3.11 Change Order Two to Bid No. 978-35 for McPherson Athletic Facility. (A2100.0
AGR-3044)
SUMMARY: Approval of Change Order No.2 to Valley Crest in the amount of
$124,231.76 for the construction modifications and improvements at the McPherson
Athletic Facility. Funding for Change Order No.2 requires an appropriation transfer from
unappropriated reserves from the Park, Acquisition and Development Fund.
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
FISCAL IMP ACT: After the appropriation transfer, sufficient funds will be budgeted in
the following account: 510-7021-481100-0143 (park, Acquisition and Development-
Ballfield Relocation): Total: $ 125,000.
Councilman Alvarez asked for the record that the City Clerk include the document
entitled "Change Order Estimate Log' which lists the 32 modifications and improvements
to the change order be attached to the Agenda staff report as part of the record.
MOTION - Murphy
SECOND - Alvarez
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to authorize Change Order No. 2 to Valley Crest in the amount of$124,231.76 for
the construction modifications and improvements at McPherson Athletic Facility;
approve a transfer in the amount of $125,000 from Park, Acquisition and Development
Fund (510) Unappropriated Reserves to the Ballfield Relocation Account No. 510-7021-
481100-0143; and the document "Change Order Estimate Log" be included with the staff
report for the official public record.
LOANS AND GRANTS
3.12 City of Orange Homeowner Participation Program. (C2500.G.l.3.1)
SUMMARY: A Homeowner Participation Program (HOPP) grant to make improvements
to a mobilehome located at 5215 E. Chapman Avenue #24 in the Orange Crest
Mobilehome Park.
ACTION: Approved a HOPP grant in the amount of $957.50 for Case No. 649 and
authorize the Finance Department to prepare a warrant.
FISCAL IMPACT: Sufficient funds are available in the HOPP Fund 315. The HOPP
grant will be recorded under Account No. 315-9653-427800-1221 (HOPP Grant).
REPORTS
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEPARATELY)
3.13 Bus shelters with Coca Cola vending machines pilot program - request by Eller
Media for permanent status at three locations. (A2100.0 AGR-1929.5)
SUMMARY: In April, 1998, Council approved the installation of two bus shelters that
incorporated a Coca Cola vending machine into the ad panels on a trial basis at the Mall
of Orange and Santa Fe Depot. As a result of a successful pilot program, Eller Media and
their client, Coca Cola Bottling Company, are requesting approval to keep the machines
at these locations, and to add one more of these shelters on The City Drive at The Block.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
FISCAL IMP ACT: Approval would increase revenue by approximately $3,500 per year
to Account No. 220-0000-293101 (Bus Shelter Revenue).
Councilman Slater commented he originally supported the vending machines. However,
after visiting the sites, he noted a lot of scratching and graffiti on the machines. He
expressed interest in what the City of Huntington Beach has done with the Coca Cola
Company in terms of a partnership and its mutual benefit, and asked that staff provide
information on what was agreed upon with the City of Huntington Beach.
Councilman Alvarez commented he had voted against the installation of vending
machines. The machines create a blight problem and he would like to see them removed.
Mayor Coontz commented Eller Media has done a good job with the cleanliness and
operation of their bus shelters in the City.
Bruce Siedel, President of Eller Media, 1539 W. Orangewood, indicated the shelters are
monitored on a daily basis and that they have replaced the glass on the Tustin Street
shelters several times.
MOTION - Slater
SECOND - Spurgeon
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to continue the trial basis program at the two existing locations for an additional
three months and it be brought back at that time for reconsideration and possible
expansion of one location on The City Drive at The Block.
RESOLUTIONS
3.14 RESOLUTION NO. 9064 (A2500.0 Conflict ofInterest)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange revising the Conflict of Interest
Code for the City of Orange.
ACTION: Approved.
3.15 RESOLUTION NO. 9072 (S4000.S.4 RES-9072)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange authorizing the temporary closure
of Collins Ave. between Main St. and Batavia St. for a special event on Sunday, April 25,
1999.
ACTION: Approve.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEP ARA TEL Y)
3.16 RESOLUTION NO. 9073 (C2500.M.16.1 LLN-98-8)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange approving Lot Line Adjustment
LL 98-8 adjusting lot lines of certain real property situated at Parcels 1 and 2 of Parcel
Map No. 85-278 in the City of Orange, County of Orange, State of California, more
particularly described in Exhibits "A" and "B".
Location: Ridgeline Country Club
Owners: Creekside at Orange Park Acres, LLC and David and Kerry Freimann
In response to Councilman Slater, the Director of Community Development indicated his
department has received an application for a residential subdivision of 34 homes.
Jerry King, #1 Upper Newport Plaza, Newport Beach, commented a parcel of the upper
undeveloped property is in the ownership of a new partnership. For legal purposes, they
want to identify that parcel. They are not asking for a land use decision at this time, but
only want to correct the record for the legal ownership, property tax assessment, and any
legal documents related to leases or land use that now exist between the tennis club and
the golf course.
Mara Brandman, 7319 Equitation Way, representing COPAC, expressed support for the
golf course; requested that Council consider continuing this item, expressing uncertainty
that there are no land use impacts; and that there be discussions with the land owners, the
community, and one or two Councilmembers to come to a solution. The separation ofthe
two entities will aid in the development. The character of the topography of Orange Park
Acres will greatly change with the tremendous amount of earth moved.
Councilman Murphy asked if the lot line adjustment could have any impact on the land
use? The Director of Community Development responded the proposed new lot lines
appear to be refinements ofthe existing lot lines. He understands the owners are trying to
segregate the club house and its use and the golf course for separate ownership and
concludes that the lot line adjustment does not have a great deal of impact on any future
land use.
Laura Thomas, 7211 Clydesdale, Orange Park Acres, President of Orange Park
Association, requested Council send the lot line adjustment back to the application
process with the residential development that is at the table in the Planning Department.
Bob Bennyhoff, 10642 Morada Drive, Orange Park Acres, requested continuance of the
item for one month or until Council acts on the proposal to allow time for an agreement
to be reached on both sides. An Environmental Impact Report will be insisted upon. The
golf course is the only open space in Orange Park Acres.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
Mayor Coontz asked what the calendar is for the residential subdivision application? The
Director of Community Development responded staff will determine soon whether a full
Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be required. If it is determined an EIR is
needed, more preparation and notification time would be needed prior to the Planning
Commission hearing, subsequently to be heard by the City Council.
Jerry King commented Creekside at Orange Park Acres, LLC has always met with and
been willing to meet with the residents and expect this will continue as they move
through the process.. At this time an owning entity does not have a clear title. They need
to make sure the transaction can close and conclude so the legal entities are the owners of
the land, and then they will move forward.
Mayor Coontz referred to the suggestion that two Council representatives meet with the
interested entities in Orange Park Acres and asked the City Attorney to what extent
Council would be able to meet with the entities with an application coming through to the
Planning Commission? What is the legal ownership at this time?
The City Attorney responded Councilmembers should meet with both entities. Under the
Subdivision Map Act, absent non-compliance with the Act, the City Council does not
have any legal basis for either denying or continuing this request. This is essentially a
non-discretionary function of the City Council under the Act, a ministerial act.
Councilman Murphy asked if the applicant would be willing to withdraw or extend the
continuance on their own request to give an opportunity for the two sides to get together?
Mr. King reiterated the legal ownership needs to be clarified. They are willing to meet
with the community and hear their concerns.
Mayor Coontz and Councilman Murphy expressed interest in participating in the
discussions with Orange Park Acres Association and the land owners. The City Manager
suggested a meeting time be called that any member of the public could attend.
In response to Council questions and concerns, the City Attorney explained as long as
there is compliance with the Subdivision Map Act and the City's procedure for a lot line
adjustment, it becomes a ministerial act. Lot line adjustments can be approved on a staff
level, but historically they have always been brought to the City Council. The Director of
Public Works explained there was a change in the State legislation last year that allows
lot line adjustment approval at the staff level. The current process can be maintained or
the City's ordinance could be amended to take advantage of the new legislation which
allows administrative approval.
Mr. King concurred with a 30 day continuance.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
Councilman Alvarez commented that COP AC and members of the Orange Park Acres
Association have been meeting with him and informing him as to what is going on with
this issue. He insisted on serving on the Committee and asked that the motion be
amended to include him as a member. Further, he supports the continuation of this item.
Councilman Murphy commented he would like to participate on the Committee as he is
an Orange Park Acres resident and could bring a different perspective, being closer to
what is going on.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Murphy
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to continue for a 30 day continuance; Councilman Murphy and Mayor Coontz to
meet with the Orange Park Acres Association, the Orange Park Acres community, and
with the owners and come back with a report; concurrent with that schedule the request of
the land owner for 30 days.
3.17 RESOLUTION NO. 9076 (A4000.0 APP-447)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange denying Appeal No. 447 and
upholding the decision of the Planning Commission of the City of Orange to deny a
variance for the installation of a freestanding sign in excess of the height limit required by
Code upon property located at 1944 East Taft Avenue.
Appeal No. 447, Variance No. 204-98
Outback Self Storage
ACTION: Approve.
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEP ARA TEL Y)
3.18 RESOLUTION NO. 9079
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange rejecting all bids received for Bid
No. 989-15, and authorizing the construction project be performed by City forces.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Slater
AYES - Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ABSENT - Murphy
Moved to remove this item from the agenda.
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
3.19 RESOLUTION NO. 9080 (A4000.0 APP-452)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange denying appeal No. 452 and
upholding the decision of the Planning Commission of the City of Orange to approve a
Conditional Use Permit to allow the off-sale of beer and wine for an existing food market
upon property located at 1095 North Glassell Street.
Appeal No. 452, Conditional Use Permit No. 2263-98
Applicant: Don Miguel Market, Appellant: Councilman Daniel Slater
ACTION: Approve. Councilmembers Slater and Alvarez voted No.
(REMOVED AND HEARD SEPARATELY)
3.20 RESOLUTION NO. 9081 (A2500.0 Parking)
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Orange rescinding Resolution No. 9069
and adopting a revised Master Resolution of Permit Parking areas within the City of
Orange.
Discussion: Jim Young, 165 S. Swidler Place, indicated a letter was submitted to staff on
February 15th requesting that portions of Almond Street and Swidler Place be added to the
Neighborhood Parking Permit Plan for the McPherson Athletic Facility. The Director of
Public Works responded his request will be heard by the City Traffic Commission at their
March 10th meeting.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Murphy
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ACTION: Approve.
SPECIAL EVENTS
3.21 Request from UCI Medical Center to conduct a 5K110K Run/Walk from The Block
in Orange to Edison Field in Anaheim, on Sunday, March 7, 1999, starting at 6:30
a.m., and cone off 2 lanes oftraffic along City Drive and State College. (P1300.0.9)
SUMMARY: The UCI Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center is proposing to
conduct a RunlWalk from The Block, running north on City Drive and State College to
east on Orangewood to north on Stadium Way. This will require the closure of the 2
outside lanes of southbound City Drive and State College from City Way to Orangewood
where the City of Anaheim will then close the lanes of their streets. It has been
determined that a Resolution is not required to cone off traffic lanes.
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February 23, 1999
3. CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
ACTION: Approve
FISCAL IMP ACT: All costs associated with this event are the responsibility of the
sponsor or promoter. A deposit to cover anticipated City costs has been submitted to the
Finance Department.
MOTION
SECOND
AYES
- Murphy
- Alvarez
- Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Item Nos. 3.9,3.10,3.11, 3.13, 3.16, 3.18 and 3.20 were removed and heard separately.
Councilman Slater and Councilman Alvarez voted no on Item No. 3.19 to be consistent
with their vote at the February 9, 1999 meeting. The remainder of the Consent Calendar
was approved as recommended.
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
4. REPORTS FROM MAYOR COONTZ - None
5.
REPORTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS
Tape 3331
5.1 Councilman Alvarez - Concerning the installation of speed humps on Handy Street
between Collins Avenue and Katella Avenue. (S4000.S.6)
Councilman Alvarez reported many residents of the City living in the "Presidential Tract"
located between Katella and Collins Avenues had not received public notification relative to the
speed humps. The residents have asked to halt the installation of speed humps on Handy Street
so that further discussions include the entire neighborhood area, bounded by the 55 Freeway on
the west, north of the School District building at Katella and Handy to the north, Wanda to the
east, and south to the riverbed at the end of Handy Street.
The Director of Public Works gave a brief history on the excessive speed and traffic problems on
Handy Street, indicating that approximately 2,400 notices were sent to an area bounded by
Katella on the north, Wanda on the east, Walnut on the south, and the 55 Freeway on the west.
Speaking in favor of the speed humps:
Russel Monroe, 2505 E. Locust Avenue
Mark Levy, 2441 E. Collins
Speaking in opposition:
Diane Arhontes, 2116 E. Wilson Avenue
Bill Lanning, 2632 East Adams
PAGE 14
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
5. REPORTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS (Continued)
Bud Trabold, 2548 E. Wilson Avenue
Jake Jansen, 2622 E. Jackson
Dennis Lay, 2308 E. Wilson Avenue
Rochelle Johnson, 2720 E. Adams
Concerns expressed: No notification was received regarding speed humps; potential liability to
City; interferes with emergency services.
Councilman Spurgeon asked that the Fire Chief address any feedback from Fire Station 3 located
on Shaffer Street since that speed hump installation and what his position is on whether speed
humps will adversely affect response times?
The Fire Chief stated that no Fire Chief wants to build obstructions between the firefighters and
the emergency, but that he is not necessarily in favor of speed humps. As a former line
firefighter and paramedic, he understands what happens with adverse speed impacts in residential
neighborhoods. He is willing to take a look at the impact of speed humps in a residential
neighborhood when faced with a group of citizens who come forward with traffic speed data for
their neighborhood. With Fire Station 3 located on Shaffer Street which has speed humps, he
immediately would know if there was an impact, noting he has not heard any complaints of delay
in response time. Statistics have been completed for 1998 and he is awaiting annual response
time statistics to compare them to when they didn't have speed humps. Approximately 10
seconds is lost for every speed hump that has to be crossed. He indicated that he had asked the
Traffic Engineer to place a moratorium on any future traffic humps until the two can be analyzed
and objectively see what the impact might be. The analysis will begin immediately.
The Director of Public Works indicated the speed humps cost approximately $500 when installed
by City forces. Removal of speed humps would cost approximately $500-600. No complaints
have been received relative to the Shaffer Street speed humps since their installation.
COUNCIL DISCUSSION:
Councilman Slater expressed concern for the residents who did not receive notification. Since
there has already been a lot of neighborhood study and speed humps are relatively new to the
City, he proposed the installation of speed humps move forward. He further proposed there be
an analysis after six months from the Fire Chief and staff. After the analysis, a public meeting
could be held with the neighborhood.
Mayor Coontz concurred with Councilman Slater's idea, noting one of the problems that came
out of the neighborhood study is that there are very few alternatives to address the excessive
speed problem on Handy. The notification letter should have included the alternatives that were
turned down. Support was expressed for a public meeting, noting the content and the
organization of the meeting is extremely important.
PAGE 15
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
5. REPORTS FROM COUNCILMEMBERS (Continued)
Councilman Murphy expressed concern that the mailed notifications did not reference speed
humps specifically. It was suggested a meeting be held to allow the other residents the
opportunity to hear the process the residents in the Handy area labored through.
Mayor pro tern Spurgeon commented he would like incorporated into the Fire Chiefs report a
report from the Traffic Engineer in regards to the surrounding cities who have had speed humps
for a longer period of time relative to liability, accidents, speed reduction, and traffic diversion
Issues.
In response to Mayor Coontz, the Fire Chief indicated it would take approximately one month to
gather the information. The Director of Public Works expressed doubt that a consensus amongst
the larger group of residents could be reached in one meeting, noting the neighborhood
committee process extended over a period of a year. Utilizing the services of Austin-Foust
Associates, Inc. as the facilitator and consultant was important to the success of those meetings.
The first meeting could be held within the 30 day period or sooner if possible.
Mayor Coontz indicated the report to be brought back by the City Manager should include the
extension of the consultant's contract, and stressed the importance of clear, detailed information
getting out to the public.
MOTION - Alvarez
SECOND - Murphy
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to: 1) direct staff to delay the installation of speed humps on Handy Street between
Katella and Collins; 2) direct staff to prepare a study for a public forum that would be conducted
for the affected area residents, with the Traffic Preservation Committee playing a key part in the
forum; and 3) extend the contract with Austin-Foust Associates, Inc. to help the City with the
traffic studies.
The residents requested traffic enforcement in this area in the interim period.
THE CITY COUNCIL RECESSED AT 7:21 P.M. AND RECONVENED AT 7:35 P.M.
6. REPORTS FROM BOARDS, COMMITTEES, AND COMMISSIONS - None
PAGE 16
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
7.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Tape 6611
7.1 Treasurer's Report for the period ending January 31, 1999. (C2500.F)
The Finance Director presented the report.
MOTION - Slater
SECOND - Spurgeon
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to receive and file.
7.2
Report from City Attorney regarding agenda issues. (C2500.D.3)
Tape 6717
The City Attorney presented the report which addresses how Consent Calendar and public
comment items are handled.
Councilman Alvarez asked for clarification on whether Public Comments allows the public to
speak on items that have already been addressed? The City Attorney explained the public
comment period allows the public to speak on items that are not on the written agenda and
commented on aspects ofthe Brown Act pertaining to public comments.
Norm Phillips, (address on file), requested a definition from the City Attorney of the word
"during" where the Brown Act states "before or during legislative bodies consideration?" Why
are we being muzzled? The City Attorney explained the Council attempts to conduct orderly
business, which is disrupted if one member gets into a separate debate about specific issues. In
addition to public comments being heard at the beginning of each session, comments from the
public are heard "during" agenda items.
Carole Walters, (address on file), commented it seems the public is being shut down more.
MOTION - Spurgeon
SECOND - Alvarez
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to receive and file.
8.
REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER
Tape 226
8.1 Report on the City consultant's review and comments on the Orange Unified School
District Residential Development Mitigation Plan (Taussig Study). (SI200.A)
The City Manager reported in March, 1998, Orange Unified School District (OUSD) approved
the Taussig Study and adopted a Resolution regarding school mitigation payments that would be
made by certain qualifying developers. The action would be applied to Council approved
PAGE 17
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
8. REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER (Continued)
residential land use developments. The Resolution advised that the City shall not issue building
permits until OUSD has executed a Certificate of Compliance indicating the developer had paid
the required mitigation fee. If the City Council desired to consider the imposition of a fee to
mitigate the impacts of residential development upon the school facility, the school would need
to conduct its own nexus study or adopt the results of the Taussig Study. The City had some
concerns regarding the Taussig Study and the position it was put in. Last year, the City Council
appropriated $15,000 and authorized the City Manager to hire a consultant (Sage Institute, Inc.)
to analyze the findings ofthe Taussig Study, to study the report and conclusions that were found,
and for the City to take appropriate action. The Sage Institute had found some inconsistencies in
the Taussig Study report.
In November, 1998, Proposition lA and Senate Bill 50 were passed which changed the role and
position regarding school mitigation fees the City Could take. The City was no longer to be
involved in approving any fee assessment that the school district may wish to assess. The City
has forwarded the Sage Institute Report to OUSD to assist them with their endeavors to secure
the appropriate funding for school construction.
Mayor Coontz commented the Public School Mitigation Fee Analysis Report prepared by the
Sage Institute, Inc. was presented at the Cities-Schools Coordinating Committee meeting.
OUSD has hired another consultant. The City's report was given to OUSD as a gift for the
benefit oftheir new consultant.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Murphy
A YES -Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved to receive and file.
9.
LEGAL AFFAIRS
Tape 414
9.1 ORDINANCE NO. 7-99 (A2500.0 City Manager)
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Orange amending Section 2.16.060 of the
Orange Municipal Code deleting the residency requirements for the City Manager.
MOTION - Spurgeon
SECOND - Murphy
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved that Ordinance No. 7-99 be read by title only and same was approved and adopted by the
preceding vote.
PAGE 18
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
9. LEGAL AFFAIRS (Continued)
9.2 ORDINANCE NO. 8-99 (A2500.0 Flood Plain)
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Orange amending Chapter 15.60 of the
Municipal Code of the City of Orange relating to flood damage prevention.
MOTION - Murphy
SECOND - Slater
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
Moved that Ordinance No. 8-99 be read by title only and same was approved and adopted by the
preceding vote.
9.3 ORDINANCE NO. 9-99 (A2500.0 Bed & Breakfast Inns)
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Orange Amending Sections 17.14.060,
17.18.030, and 17.18.070 of the Orange Municipal Code Relating to Bed and Breakfast Inns in
Certain Commercial Zoning Districts.
MOTION - Murphy
SECOND - Spurgeon
AYES - Murphy, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon
NOES - Alvarez
ABSTAIN- Slater
Moved that Ordinance No. 9-99 be read by title only and same was set for second reading by the
preceding vote.
10. RECESS TO THE MEETING OF THE ORANGE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
11. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
The City Council recessed at 8:40 p.m. to a Closed Session for the following purposes:
a. Conference with Legal Counsel - anticipated litigation.
1) Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b ) (one
potential case). Contract with ORRS
2) Initiation oflitigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c) (one potential case).
b. Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 -
existing litigation. Vista Royale HOA v. City of Orange, et aI., Orange County Superior
Case No. 78 02 84.
PAGE 19
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
11. RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION (Continued)
c. Conference with Labor Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6: City
Negotiator: Personnel Director Steven Pham; Employee Organizations: Maintenance &
Operations, Orange Management Association, Orange Municipal Employees' Association and
Water Department Employees' Association. This item was not discussed in Closed Session.
d. Conference with real property negotiator regarding the sale of real property pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8: Property: northeast corner of La Veta Avenue and Olive
Street; Negotiating Parties: City of Orange
e. Public Employee Appointment pursuant to Government Code Section 54957. Title:
Police Chief - Recruitment Status. This item was not discussed in Closed Session.
f. To consider and take possible action upon such other matters as are orally announced by
the City Attorney, City Manager, or City Council prior to such recess unless the motion to recess
indicates any ofthe matters will not be considered in Closed Session
7:00 P.M. SESSION
12.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Tape 505
Carole Walters, (address on file), commented she has taken care of getting information to the
senior citizens, referring to a house occupied by the homeless and mentally ill located on South
Glassell.
13.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Tape 529
13.1 APPEAL NO. 448, VARIANCE NO. 2050-98, FRED E. PETERS (A4000.0 APP-
448)
Time set for a public hearing to consider Appeal No. 448 by Fred E. Peters concerning the
Planning Commission's denial of Variance No. 2050-98 to allow the construction of a 6-8 ft.
high fence within the front and side yard setback area upon property located at 706 E. Walnut
Avenue.
NOTE: This project is categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental
Act, per State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15303(e).
THE APPELLANT STATES THE FOLLOWING REASONS FOR THE APPEAL.
"My appeal with the Planning Commission, scheduled for 7 p.m. October 5 was heard at approx.
1:15 a.m., October 6th (many long frustrating sessions). Procedure was that I made a very brief
presentation, based upon the premise that Commission members had read the background
materials. (Before I presented, I asked, and they said "yes", they had carefully read the packet.)
No appellate comments were allowed during or after Committee discussion and decision.
PAGE 20
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
13. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued)
Discussion included many issues which facts in the packet would have corrected had the packet
been read and referred to. The Chairman monologued a summary of the facts as he saw them
(some of which were contradictory to materials presented) and his opinions on how the
Committee should interpret the facts and vote on the decision. I strongly believe also that the
Chairman's understanding of the "Variance" option in the code is inaccurate. For these reasons I
wish to appeal the Commission's decision and request a new hearing."
Note: Councilman Slater abstained on this item, reporting he has a property in escrow at 815 E.
Walnut which is within 300 feet of the subject property, and left the Council dais.
The Director of Community Development reported the property is a single-family residential lot,
approximately 14,700 square feet, with an R-I-6 Single Family Residential. Most properties
surrounding the property are zoned R-I-6 single family residences, with the exception of Orange
High School. The applicant is proposing to construct a 6 foot high open iron fence with stucco
pilasters located approximately 14 feet on center in the front yard area. The height exceeds the
maximum 3 ~ feet height which is allowed by City ordinance. The application is the result of a
complaint from code enforcement regarding construction ofthe fence.
MAYOR COONTZ OPENED THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Fred Peters, Applicant/Appellant, 706 E. Walnut, presented material supporting his request.
Speaking in favor:
Code Maresh, 935 E. Rose Avenue, Security Officer at Orange High School
Debra K. Martini, 638 E. Walnut Avenue
M. J. Martini, 638 E. Walnut Avenue
Carole Walters, (address on file)
Alain Hasson, 634 E. Jefferson Avenue
Reasons for support: Safety concerns; deserving of privacy, property rights; fence adds to beauty
and value of property; and similar variances have been approved.
THERE BEING NO FURTHER SPEAKERS, MAYOR COONTZ CLOSED THE PUBLIC
HEARING.
Mayor Coontz expressed the need for the security officers at Orange High School to provide
regular reports to the Orange Police Department on crime issues, as stated by Mr. Maresh.
PAGE 21
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
February 23, 1999
13. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued)
REBUTTAL:
Fred Peters commented the special need for his fence height variance request is for his security,
privacy, and safety. His request serves to provide the same security conditions which residents
in other city locations have naturally, and his property meets all prior approval criteria.
Councilman Alvarez asked if this variance sets a precedent for the Old Towne Mile Square? The
Director of Community Development responded approval of a variance under these
circumstances will make is easier for others in similar circumstances to gain approval in the
future.
MOTION - Mayor Coontz
SECOND - Spurgeon
AYES - Murphy, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ABSTAIN - Slater
Moved to uphold Appeal No. 448 with the following conditions: 1) Project development shall
occur in substantial conformance with plans as submitted for approval and or as modified by the
City Council and conditions herein; 2) the applicant install an approved automatic gate to
provide access for vehicles entering the driveway; and 3) if not utilized, Variance 2050-98 shall
expire two (2) years from the approval date.
MOTION - Murphy
SECOND - Mayor Coontz
AYES - Murphy, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
ABSTAIN - Slater
Moved that this project is categorically exempt from the proVIsIOns of the California
Environmental Act, per State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15303(e).
MA YOR PRO TEM SPURGEON COMMENTED FOR THE RECORD: "I have asked on a number of
occasions that our agenda item recommendation be similar to what's on our agenda. And that is
not the case. And I would ask that again. I've asked that on numerous occasions."
14. PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENT - None
PAGE 22
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
15. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION - Murphy
SECOND - Slater
AYES - Murphy, Slater, Mayor Coontz, Spurgeon, Alvarez
February 23, 1999
The City Council reconvened from Closed Session at 10:39 p.m. and adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
~-Jiitlt-N~
CASSANDRA J. C HCART, CMC
CITY CLERK
JOANNE COONT
MAYOR
PAGE 23