HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Min 2000-08-14
8-9-00 / 8-14-00
General discussion, questions, and responses continued
between the City Council and the interviewees until 11:12
a.m.
CLOSED SESSION
The Council, by unanimous consent, adjourned to Closed
Session at 11:15 a.m. for discussion of personnel matters
pursuant to Government Code Section 54957. The Council
reconvened at 11:45 a.m. with Mayor Campbell calling the
meeting to order. It was reported that the Council had
discussed the appointment of an Interim City Manager, no
action was taken, and the Closed Session discussion is to be
continued to Monday, August 14th at 6:30 p.m.
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ADJOURNMENT
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to adjourn the meeting until Monday, August l4th at 6:30 p.m.
to meet in Closed Session.
Approved:
'-f>~&~
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Attest:
Seal Beach, California
August 14, 2000
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in special
session at 6:15 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling the meeting
to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Campbell
Councilmembers Boyd, Doane, Larson, Yost
Absent:
None
Also present: Mr. Dorsey, Acting City Manager
Mr. Barrow, City Attorney
Ms. ~eo, City Clerk
Mayor Campbell read the Notice of Special Meeting as follows:
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"patricia Campbell, 4433 Ironwood Avenue, Seal Beach
Shawn Boyd, 229 - 7th Street, Seal Beach
William Doane, l401 Skokie'Road, 83-A, Seal Beach
John Larson, 13741 Annandale Drive, l8-G
Paul Yost, 485 Schooner Way, Seal Beach
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NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957 a special meeting of the Seal Beach City
Council is hereby called for Monday, August 14th, 2000
at 6:l5 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 21l - 8th
Street, Seal Beach, California, for the purpose of:
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*
consideration of appointment, terms and
conditions of an Interim City Manager for
the City of Seal Beach.
DATED THIS 11th day of August, 2000.
patricia Campbell, Mayor
City of Seal Beach
by
Joanne Yeo, City Clerk
City of Seal Beach"
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The City Attorney advised that at this time the Council
should allow any member of the public to comment on items
listed on the agenda, other matters may be addressed at the
regular meeting.
Ms. Sue Corbin, Seal Beach, claimed that the Brown Act allows
the public to speak to any item. with regard to appointment
of an Interim City Manager she stated that the Council should
take other steps before that is done, first get the
government working properly, no one will want the position
until that is done. There were no other public comments.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Attorney announced that the Council would meet in
Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 to
discuss the item identified on the agenda. The Council
adjourned to Closed Session at 6:18 p.m. and reconvened at
6:45 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling the meeting to order.
The City Attorney reported that the City Council has retained
the services of Donald Franklin McIntyre as Interim City
Manager subject to resolving the terms of agreement, the
Interim Manager to commence his duties the following day, no
other action was taken.
ADJOURNMENT
It was the order of the Chair, with unanimous consent of the
Council, to adjourn the meeting at 6:46 p.m.
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C'
o
clerk
Approved:
~~g,~~
Attest:
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Seal Beach, California
August l4, 2000
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
adjourned session at 6:47 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling
the meeting to order.
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ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Campbell
Councilmembers Doane, Yost
Absent:
Councilmembers Boyd, Larson
Councilmembers Boyd and Larson were present at the meeting
however not in Council Chambers at this time.
Also present: Mr. Dorsey, Acting City Manager
Mr. Barrow, City Attorney
Ms. Yeo, City Clerk
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY - CALL TO ORDER
Chairman Yost called to order the regular adjourned
Redevelopment Agency meeting at 6:47 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Chairman Yost
Agencymembers Campbell, Doane
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Absent:
Agencymembers Boyd, Larson
Agencymembers Boyd and Larson were present in the conference
room pending Closed Session.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Attorney announced that the Council would meet in
Closed Session to discuss the items identified on the agenda
pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 and a conference
with the City's labor negotiator, and the Redevelopment
Agency would meet in Closed Session pursuant to Government
Code Section 54956.9(a) to confer with legal counsel relating
to existing litigation as identified on the agenda. The
Council and Agency adjourned to Closed Session at 6:48 p.m.
and reconvened at 7:25 p.m.
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
ROLL CALL
Present:
Chairman Yost
Agencymembers Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson
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Absent:
None
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
By unanimous consent of the Agency, the order of the agenda
was approved.
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
Chairman Yost declared the Public Comment period to be open.
Mr. Paul Jeffers, Trailer Park resident, made mention of the
committee that was formed in the attempt to purchase the
Trailer Park, an offer was made of $6.4 million to the owner
who purchased the Park for $2.6 million, the owner has said
he wants to sell the Park however wants an acceptable price,
this would be more than doubling his money in a year and a
half. Mr. Jeffers said he understands that another million
is being sought that would make the offer $7.4 million, yet
the Park has not even been appraised. He mentioned too that
there is now a lawsuit against the Agency relating to the
Covenants, in his opinion the Covenants are pertinent to the
value of the Park,' to him it seems that things are moving too
fast and somewhat blindly to buy the Park, this needs to be
thought out, the owner needs to be dealt with in a
capitalistic manner. Mr. Glen Clark, Trailer Park resident,
offered that the people who have been negotiating for the
purchase of the Park also thought that the $6.4 million was
considerably too much, however, unfortunately, Mr. Hall has
the absolute say as to the sale price, the negotiating group
has been seeking assurance from Link Housing that the Park
residents would not be gouged as to the amount of their
monthly payment, which has been averaged at about $500 per
month, for those that would be unable to pay that amount the
attempt is to make arrangements for some form of subsidy of
the amount of what they can afford and the $500, the grant
application to the State was felt to be the best means. Mr.
Clark advised the Agency that the Park has retained an
attorney, Mr. Bruce Stanton, who will hopefully be working
with the City to help defend the lawsuit against the
Covenants, Mr. Stanton known throughout the State as being an
expert on mobile home law and was recommended by the State
Department of Housing and Community Development. Mr. Clark
reported meetings held with Park residents over the weekend
which resulted in nearly seventy-five percent of the
residents in favor of going forward with the effort to
purchase the Park, that approval dependent upon receiving the
MPROP funds to help achieve that goal. He mentioned that the
resident committee met five times last week, things are
happening daily, a meeting will be held with the Gibbs Law
Firm tomorrow, yes, the purchase figure is high, negotiations
are continuing, on the other hand the Park owner could refuse
to sell but that is not the case at this point. There being
no further public comments, Chairman Yost declared Public
Comments to be closed.
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CONSULTANT AGREEMENT / RESOLUTION NUMBER 00-3 - AUTHORIZING
LOAN APPLICATION - MOBILE HOME PARK RESIDENT OWNERSHIP PROGRAM
Chairman Yost explained that this Program is funded by the
State Housing/Community Development Department to provide
additional funding for the residents who purchase Trailer
Parks, there is one attorney who has been successful in
obtaining these funds from the State, noted that the Agency
previously allocated $20,000 to assist the Park residents
with the process of attempting to purchase the Park, the
intent of this consideration is that the Agency would use the
additional $7,000 for this purpose.
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Larson moved, second by Yost, to approve the consultant
agreement with The Gibbs Law Firm and authorize the
expenditure of $7,000, with the adoption of Resolution Number
00-3 entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF
THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF A LOAN
APPLICATION, THE EXECUTION OF A STANDARD AGREEMENT AND ANY
AMENDMENTS THERETO, AND ANY RELATED DOCUMENTS NECESSARY TO
PARTICIPATE IN THE MOBILEHOME PARK RESIDENT OWNERSHIP PROGRAM
AND TO SECURE A COMMITMENT OF FUNDS FROM THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT." By
unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number 00-3 was
waived. The City Attorney clarified the summary of the
request, the, $7,000 will go to the Trailer Park Residents
Association so they can hire the Gibbs Law Firm, this is not
in addition to the previously approved $20,000, it is the
balance of the $20,000.
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AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
ADJOURNMENT
By unanimous consent, the regular adjourned City Council
meeting and the regular adjourned Redevelopment Agency
meeting were adjourned at 7:36 p.m.
clerk
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Approved:
'iJ~~t e(J~
Mayot
Attest:
Seal Beach, California
August l4, 2000
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
session at 7:37 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling the meeting
to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Campbell
Councilmembers Boyd, Doane, Larson, Yost
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Absent: None
Also present: Mr. Dorsey, Acting City Manager
Mr. Barrow, City Attorney
Mr. Whittenberg, Director of Development
Services
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Mr. Badum, Director of Public Works/City
Engineer
Chief Sellers, Police Department
Chief Cushman, Lifeguard Department
Ms. Beard, Director of Recreation and Parks
Ms. Arends-King, Director of Administrative
Services
Ms. Yeo, City Clerk
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Councilman Yost requested that Item "M" be removed from the
Consent Calendar for separate consideration, Mayor Campbell
requested that Item "K" be removed, also that the Chamber
presentation be made before Public Comments, and Councilman
Larson requested to comment on Items "J, K, M, N, 0, P, and
R". Boyd moved, second by Doane, to approve the order of the
agenda as revised.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Councilman Yost announced the AVP Volleyball Tournament in
Seal Beach this upcoming Saturday and Sunday, noting that
some of the greatest matches have occurred in Seal Beach.
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PRESENTATION - CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ms. Kim Masoner, president, Chamber of Commerce and Business
Association, stated they were present to make donations to
worthy community organizations, and her husband would be
commenting on the Car Show, the source of the monies for the
donations, and the Sandcastle Contest another upcoming event.
Mr. Masoner announced that the Sandcastle event will be held
on September 9th from which all proceeds go towards cleaning
up the San Gabriel River, the cleanup the first weekend of
November. Ms. Masoner mentioned that there were a number of
volunteers for the Car Show, including members of the
Council, and expressed appreciation to all. Ms. Masoner
announced a donation of $250 to DJ Mike Narz, in turn Mr.
Narz stated that the donation will go to the Long
Beach/Orange County branch of the Arthritis Foundation. Ms.
Masoner offered a donation of $500 to the Explorer Scouts,
also, $750 to the Senior volunteers, noting that eighteen of
the Volunteers provided assistance throughout the Car Show,
both donations accepted by Chief Sellers who noted the many
hours donated to the community throughout the year by the
Explorers, an arm of the Boy Scouts of America. Ms. Marilyn
Hastings explained that the Seal Beach Community Safety
Foundation was organized to raise funds to provide goods that
are needed by various groups in the community such as the
Lifeguards, Fire Department, and Police Department, that
effort has been successful, then the Volunteer Program began
and there was no place to hold their monies therefore after
consulting with the Police Department a separate fund was
created under the blanket of the Foundation. She invited
anyone wishing to donate to the Senior Volunteer Program to
do so which will then be held separately for their use, the
Foundation too would welcome donations to continue their
program of aid. Councilman Boyd commended Ms. Masoner and
the Chamber/Business Association for the Music on Main Street
Program, the second of 'which will be this coming Wednesday
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Johns/Hennessy's parking lot at
Main/Central.
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mr. Tom Lazarak stated he is an officer of the Veterans of
Foreign Wars and the American Legion. Mr. Lazarak expressed
appreciation to the Acting City Manager for his efforts to
have the lanyard and lock box installed on the flag pole at
the pier, this will allow the lowering of the flag to half
staff. Mr. Lazarak noted that a question posed to the Acting
City Manager was if the organizations could have a key or
have access to a key in light of the fact that when needed on
certain holidays the City offices are closed. The Acting
City Manager passed the compliment by Mr. Lazarak on to the
Public Works Department. Ms. Jennie Kohler, resident and
windsurfer, asked that Resolution Number 3876 be placed on
the agenda for review and revision. She made specific
reference to Section 4(c) that allows the Lifeguards to
expand or restrict the aquatic sports area yet the area for
the windsurfers never gets expanded, specifically the
reference is to the San Gabriel River, the Resolution does
not exclude windsurfers from surfing the San Gabriel River
mouth, a navigable waterway as determined by the State,
available to all watercraft, no exceptions, however
complained that on a windy day in July she windsurfed the
River, shortly she was approached by a lifeguard who informed
her she was not allowed in that area pursuant to Resolution
Number 3876, and if she continued she would be issued a
citation for exceeding the five mile speed limit, the problem
is that surfers exceed the five miles per hour but are never
cited, the surfers and bathers are allowed in the designated
aquatic area when no windsurfers are there, that in violation
of the posted signage, if they can use the aquatic sports
area when there are no windsurfers then why are the
windsurfers not allowed to use the River. To Section 4(a),
the designated aquatic sports area which restricts
windsurfers to enter and exit the water between 2nd and 4th
Streets, there is question if this was done to discourage
their use of Seal Beach, a problem is that they then have to
sail across wind at an angle, during summer months the winds
are lighter than in spring which makes it harder to sail from
the beach and clear the pier, entering the water anywhere
east of 3rd Street makes it difficult to clear the pier and
nearly impossible for the less experienced sailors, therefore
they try to stay as far upwind as possible which causes
people to group together at the area of 2nd Street, that
causes congestion and a safety problem. Ms. Kohler claimed
that if a windsurfer even goes three feet out of the
designated area they are threatened with a citation yet if
others enter the aquatic sports area they are merely told to
move. Ms. Kohler mentioned also a new sport in Seal Beach
which is kiteboarding, Resolution 3876 makes no provision for
them, they do not fall within the definitions, therefore it
is surmised that they can enter and exit the water anywhere
they choose and go anywhere they choose, including the River
with or without surfers. She claimed there have been
attempts to work things out with the lifeguards yet ideas
have either been denied or ignored, lifeguards have been
instructed to not deviate from the Resolution, however Seal
Beach is a unique natural resource with its combination of
wind and waves that can not be found elsewhere in Orange
County that people should be allowed to utilize. Ms. Kohler
again asked for review and revision of Resolution 3876. Mr.
Tom Blackman, President of the Friends of the Library,
conveyed appreciation to the Council and City for the prompt
attention to the air conditioning when it went out at Mary
Wilson Library, he was uncertain as to how monies are being
allocated for public improvements, however the library is
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heavily used, the Friends donate money to local programs that
the County does not have money to support, the County does
not maintain the building, and requested that replacement of
the air conditioning unit be given a high priority. He
mentioned that the carpeting is likely about as old as the
air conditioning, about twenty years, it too is worn out and
requested that its replacement also be made a priority. Mr.
Blackman said speaking as a citizen he and his wife travel
frequently, usually to small towns like Seal Beach, most have
places and things that have been designated as historic, and
to that he commended the Council for the upcoming
consideration of the guidelines and designation of historical
homes in Seal Beach. Ms. Sue Corbin, Seal Beach, made
reference to the public hearing to consider the appeal of
Variance 00-3, this an important issue, will effect people
for years, Leisure World as well, this is an end run around
zoning as everyone has a disability, additional square
footage should not be allowed, rather, possibly a unit should
be removed to bring the property into zoning compliance. Ms.
Corbin requested that the bulletin boards on Main Street be
put back, that allows people to communicate, there was also a
promise to have a larger bulletin board at City Hall for
posting notices, a locked bulletin board too for the agenda.
With regard to windsurfing, regulations should stay as they
presently exist. Ms. Corbin claimed that it was necessary to
contact Sacramento to obtain the locations of meetings of the
San Gabriel River Conservancy, Councilman Yost is the
representative and he should seek the consensus of the
Council before making decisions at these meetings. There
being no further comments, Mayor Campbell declared Public
Comments to be closed.
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Mayor Campbell requested that the Closed Session decision be
announced once again for information of the public. The City
Attorney reported that at the earlier Closed Session the City
Council authorized the hiring of Donald McIntyre as the
Interim City Manager commencing tomorrow, subject to
finalizing the terms of an agreement, on a month to month
basis while seeking a permanent City Manager.
COUNCIL ITEMS
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POLICY MANUAL
Councilman Boyd noted that the issue of a Policy Manual had
been discussed previously, read his memorandum to the
Council, the intent of the Manual is to provide clarification
with regard to matters within the jurisdiction of the Council
as defined under the City Charter not subject to adoption by
resolution or ordinance, this a means of communicating
Council policies to the public. He suggested that the Manual
commence with the existing adopted policies, that new
policies be added upon approval, and that a Manual be
available to the public at each public counter in City Hall
and the City's website. Councilman Boyd described a sample
Manual from another city, examples of policies would include
such things as the Encroachment Policy, Investment Policy,
possibly a policy relating to building plan review time
frames, and the policy to be considered at this meeting
relating to Historic Structures. He suggested that a
Resolution be prepared for consideration at the next meeting
describing the format, etc. for the Manual or merely
authorize the Manual by consensus, with regard to preparation
of the Manual Councilman Boyd it would most likely be
coordinated through the City Manager's office. Although not
necessarily adverse to such Manual, Councilman Yost did
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express some concern with creating additional workload, use
of staff time, and another layer of government
administration. Councilman Boyd responded that this is
something that is already done, there is simply no vehicle
presently to disseminate adopted policy. Councilman Boyd
agreed to hold this item over to the next meeting to allow
the Council and public the opportunity to review the proposed
Manual and that of the other city, available in the office of
the City Clerk.
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LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES CONFERENCE - VOTING DELEGATE /
ALTERNATE
Mayor Campbell noted that the year 2000 League Conference
will be held in Anaheim and inquired as to who will be
attending. Councilman Boyd mentioned that he will be hosting
a breakfast for the Orange County Board of Supervisors the
morning of September 8th as Chair of the Orange County Fire
Authority, and invited all to attend, otherwise he would not
be attending the Conference. Councilman Yost stated his
intent to attend the Leadership Academy sessions and on the
weekend, Councilman Doane said he would not be attending.
Boyd moved, second by Doane, to designate Mayor Campbell as
the City's voting delegate and Councilman Larson as the
alternate.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 4823 - PAYING TRIBUTE - HARRY RAYMOND
FULTON
Mayor Campbell read in full Resolution Number 4823 entitled
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
PAYING TRIBUTE TO HARRY RAYMOND FULTON," former member of the
Seal Beach City Council. Larson moved, second by Boyd, to
adopt Resolution Number 4823 as presented.
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AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 4824 - PAYING TRIBUTE - STANLEY "BUSTER"
DUBROCK
Resolution Number 4824 was read in full by Mayor Campbell
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH PAYING TRIBUTE TO STANLEY "BUSTER" DUBROCK,"
former member of the Seal Beach Fire Department and Orange
County Fire Authority. Boyd moved, second by Larson, to
adopt Resolution Number 4824 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS "F" thru "R"
Councilman Larson retracted his request to remove Items "0"
and "P" from the Consent Calendar. Boyd moved, second by
Larson, to approve the recommended action for items on the
Consent Calendar as presented, except Items "J, K, M, N, and
R", removed for separate consideration.
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F. Approved the waiver of reading in full of
all ordinances and resolutions and that
consent to the waiver of reading shall be
deemed to be given by all Councilmembers
after reading of the title unless specific
request is made at that time for the
reading of such ordinance or resolution.
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G. Approved regular demands numbered 28637
through 28839 in the amount of $796,891.22,
payroll demands numbered 8464 through 8869,
and 9000333 through 9000358 in the amount
of $532,922.72, and authorized warrants to
be drawn on the Treasury for same.
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H.
Approved the minutes of the July 24, 2000
regular adjourned and regular meetings, and
the August 3, 2000 regular adjourned meeting.
I. Received and filed the Building Department
Activity Summary for May, 2000.
L. Received and filed the Monthly Investment
Report for June, 2000.
O. Adopted Resolution Number 4825 entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING
REVISIONS TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH AND THE ORANGE
COUNTY EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION." By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number
4825 was waived.
P.
Adopted Resolution Number 4826 entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SEAL BEACH ESTABLISHING WAGES AND
BENEFITS FOR CERTAIN NON-REPRESENTED
EMPLOYEES AND REPEALING ON THE EFFECTIVE
DATES SPECIFIED ALL RESOLUTIONS IN CONFLICT
THEREWITH." By unanimous consent, full
reading of Resolution Number 4826 was waived.
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Q.
Authorized staff to research and, if warranted,
negotiate a proposed contract between Airtouch
Wireless and the City of Seal Beach regarding
the installation of a cellular pole and
antenna at Zoeter Field.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
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ITEM "J" - COMMENT LETTER - NEGATIVE DECLARATION - RE-USE OF
LEAD CONTAMINATED SOIL - CAL TRANS
Councilman Larson noted that Highway 22 is adjacent to
Leisure World, CalTrans has been working on the 22 for
considerable time however it is understood the contractor
abandoned the project, it is said that the work being done
has lead pollution yet CalTrans is requesting a waiver in
order to redo the soil and put it back down, it is also said
that there will be adequate control over the contractors, if
raining they will cover the soil or other means of
protection. Councilman Larson offered that he does not have
all that much confidence in CalTrans and would request that
the City Engineer make certain that the people of Leisure
World are protected, lead poisoning is not a minor thing, the
reason given by CalTrans is that they want to do it properly
but do not want to spend the money. Councilman Yost agreed
and mentioned that it has been identified as a major health
issue for children in Orange County. Councilman Larson
inquired as to what the outlets being installed along the
freeways are for.
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Larson moved, second by Boyd, to receive and file the staff
report, authorize the Mayor to sign the proposed response
letter, and instruct staff to forward this matter to the
Environmental Quality Control Board for information purposes.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
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ITEM "K" - RESPONSE LETTER - DRAFT SITE EVALUATION REPORT -
INSTALLATION RESTORATION PROGRAM - NAVAL WEAPONS STATION
With regard to this item, Councilman Larson noted the mention
of unexploded weapons, ammonia contamination, cancer risk
formulas, with talk of an acceptable risk, that is a concern,
however they are evidently trying to clean up sites, areas
that some day may be turned over to civilian use. The
Director of Development Services explained that the
unexploded ordnance is primarily small handgun munition, that
is basically all they are finding however the danger could
come from something hitting a bullet during cleanup and cause
it to explode, the report indicates that they will be
bringing in Navy experts that will explore the sites and
clear out any unexploded bullets in the ground, with regard
to the ammonia issues, those do not seem to be a major level
of concern to either the management of the National Wildlife
Service or the U. S. Department of Fish and Game, the seeps
that are emitting the ammonia are immediately adjacent to the
National wildlife Refuge, the concern is that the levels do
not increase in the future, the suggestion within the letter
is that they initiate some type of monitoring program to
watch the levels over the next fifty years which is said to
be the time for them to dissipate naturally, the concern
would be that they do not spike to the point that they would
become a danger to some of the endangered species in the
wildlife Refuge. The Director explained further that the
cleanup levels required are established by the Department of
Toxic Substance Control, U. S. Environmental Protection
Agency, based on existing background levels of metals or
other materials that may be in the ground, the levels are
very site specific to this location and meet the criteria for
this Base and basically agreed to by all of the reviewing
agencies, including the Water Quality Control Board. The
Director said it is felt that the Navy has addressed the
issues quite well, the response letter merely suggesting the
monitoring, over the long term, of the ammonia levels
particularly.
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Larson moved, second by Boyd, to receive and file the staff
report, authorize the Mayor to sign the response letter, and
instruct staff to forward a copy of the letter to the
Environmental Quality Control Board for information.
Councilman Boyd said this highlights what the fifty-two
hundred acre Naval Weapons Station represents to the City,
the Wildlife Refuge is there, the remediation efforts of this
and other facilities are very important, cleanup would be
required should the facility be closed by the BRAC, however
of importance is that cleanup is being done now. Mayor
Campbell mentioned that cleanup has also been ongoing for a
number of years at the Armed Forces Reserve Center.
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AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
Mayor Campbell mentioned that when a letter is written for
her signature it should read 'patricia E. Campbell'.
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ITEM "M" - PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT - WATER OUALITY
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Councilman Yost noted that this item will allow an outside
firm to assist the City with urban runoff and water quality
issues and coordinate with the multiple agencies that are
involved with urban runoff, this will be money well spent.
Councilman Yost mentioned that the San Gabriel Rivers and
Mountains Conservancy toured the San Gabriel River commencing
at the upper dam of the River and ending at 1st Street, one
of the stops was at the Long Beach water reclamation/sewage
treatment plant which is where Coyote Creek empties into the
San Gabriel River, that would appear to be a good location to
deal with diversion yet there are several problems, it is in
Los Angeles County yet the watershed is Orange County, it is
necessary to find ways to work between the various agencies,
that is a challenge, but it is hoped some firm will be able
to do that. Councilman Boyd mentioned that urban
runoff/stormwater diversion has taken the forefront in recent
years, that largely due to new methods of monitoring ocean
water quality and the issue of urban runoff, the West Coast
thought they were smarter than the East Coast by separating
the stormwater and sewage systems into two different
processes, storm water sent to the ocean, sewage treated and
then sent to the ocean, on the East Coast it is done all at
once, this is an issue that is being dealt with at the Orange
County sanitation District, and noted that the funding for
this agreement is from a $450,000 State grant to deal with
beach and ocean water quality issues. Councilman Boyd
offered that the person being retained as the Interim City
Manager was the general manager of the County Sanitation
Districts and was at the forefront of accepting and
processing urban runoff through the District thus diverting
it from going onto the beaches, also involved with County
programs dealing with urban runoff. Councilman Yost
suggested that it would be helpful if contacts could be made
with the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors, at some point the
use of reclaimed water for parks and recreation areas may
need to be considered as well, staff should keep that in
mind. Councilman Doane offered that cooperation could also
be sought from Bixby and the Navy for their golf course and
facilities use. Mayor Campbell mentioned that all of the
drains in the City of Cypress are stenciled with a message
that they drain to the ocean, making people more aware, the
response of the Public Works Director was that it is believed
that is being done locally, however if there are drains that
have not been stenciled, requested that he be notified.
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Yost moved, second by Boyd, to approve the Professional
Services Agreement with Tettemer & Associations to prepare a
Stormwater and Urban Runoff Water Quality plan at a cost not
to exceed $105,000, and authorize the City Manager to execute
said Agreement on behalf of the City.
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AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
ARBOR PARK LIGHTING
Councilman Larson noted that the Board of Supervisors is
working with the military to develop a regional park in the
general area, his thought was that this lighting should be
coordinated with that plan so that it does not have to be
redone at some future time. Councilman Boyd said he believed
the regional park plan is on the other side of the Base
closer to the Lexington entrance, this is off Lampson Avenue.
The Recreation and Parks Director said she believed that was
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a proposal of the City of Los Alamitos, thus far it has been
difficult to obtain information, AFRC is not even aware of
the proposal. The Director introduced representatives of the
AYSO, this project, night lights for Arbor Park, a
partnership with AYSO and in cooperation with the Armed
Forces Reserve Center. Mr. Joe Silva, AYSO representative,
mentioned that they participated in the installation of the
sprinkler system last year, there are two thousand children
in the soccer programs, the largest single program for youth
in this community which serves Los Alamitos, Rossmoor, and
Seal Beach, there is difficulty providing these programs in
the limited amount of park space, this an effort of a number
of people including the Edison Company and the AFRC. He
asked if possibly there could be some park money available
sometime in the future to help subsidize the cost of
electricity for these youth programs, he noted also that AYSO
is a child development organization that uses soccer as a
vehicle, of the two thousand children in the current program
about one thousand are from Seal Beach proper. Mayor
Campbell noted that the way in which the school district is
set up the young people seem to switch teams yearly, this
field is used by youths throughout the district.
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Boyd moved, second by Larson, to approve the proposed
lighting improvements for Arbor Park.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
ITEM "R" - ASSOCIATED VOLLEYBALL PROFESSIONALS - BANNER
REOUEST
Councilman Larson expressed his belief that this item
coincides with the suggestion of Councilman Boyd relating to
policy matters, in this case there should possibly be a
policy inasmuch as standing policy is that only City
sponsored or non-profit organizations are allowed to hang
banners, this is a for-profit organization, another policy
issue would likely be the musical concerts off Main Street.
Councilman Yost disagreed, expressing his opinion that no
for-profit organization should be allowed to put up a banner
without Council approval, it could turn into commercial
advertising, however in this case the AVP brings into town
considerable sales tax dollars. Councilman Boyd noted that
this could very well be a policy whereby it is stated that
for-profit banners may be allowed subject to Council
approval, there would not be selling of advertising space, in
this case there is benefit to the entire community.
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Larson moved, second by Boyd, to allow the hanging of an
event banner announcing the Seal Beach AVP tournament.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to declare a recess at 8:44 p.m. The Council reconvened at
9:02 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling the meeting to order.
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PUBLIC HEARING / RESOLUTION NUMBER 4827 - APPEAL - DENIAL OF
VARIANCE 00-3 - ADDITION - 220 SEVENTH STREET
Mayor Campbell declared the public hearing open to consider
the appeal of Planning Commission denial of Variance Number
00-3. The City Clerk certified that notice of the public
hearing had been advertised and mailed as required by law,
and reported receipt of one communication from the residents
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of 245 - 7th Street in support of the denial of variance 00-
3, copies of which were provided the Council. The Director
of Development Services presented the staff report, explained
that the Planning Commission conducted public hearings on
this matter on May 17th and June 14th, the Commission
decision was to deny the Variance request on a four to zero
vote with one Commissioner abstaining because he was not
present during the public hearings, the applicant then filed
an appeal within the time period set forth by the City Code.
The Director reported the applicant is seeking an approximate
237 square foot addition to the rear of a single story
residence that is located at the front of the property at 220
Seventh Street, the property is legal non-conforming, there
are two separate structures on the property, a two bedroom,
one bath bungalow at the front of the property to which the
addition is proposed, at the rear there is a garage structure
with a downstairs and upstairs apartment, the rear structure
is set too close to the side property line to comply with
current standards. The property has three units with two
parking spaces, under the City's zoning requirements for a
property in this type of non-conforming situation if there
were one parking space per unit then the property would have
gone through a minor plan review process, since there is not
one space per unit in order for this request to come before
the Planning Commission a variance is required for the
proposed addition, these structures were built in the 1940
time period therefore they do not meet the current standards
of the City. He noted the request at this time is to allow
the construction to proceed without providing a parking space
for each unit on the property, and reminded that in order to
grant a variance there are three basic findings that must be
made. The Director made reference to the Planning Commission
staff report in which there was extensive discussion of the
Reasonable Modification provisions of the Federal Fair
Housing Act as they apply to this type of request, the staff
recommendation to the Commission was approval of the project
based on the Reasonable Accommodation standards, the Planning
Commission disagreed with the staff position, and their
recommendation was denial. He mentioned that under the
Reasonable Modification provisions there are a couple of
issues to keep in mind, first, the principle aim of the
federal law is the prevention of discrimination of persons
trying to enjoy their housing who have some type of
disability, also, a number of court decisions were reviewed,
in some cases it was determined that cities needed to grant
variances to allow an individual to have reasonable use of
their property due to a disability. The Director pointed out
that the staff report attempted to address each of the
reasons set forth in the appeal, primarily from the viewpoint
of the Planning Commission, the issue of Reasonable
Accommodation was again raised in the appeal, under federal
law and the court cases there are several findings under the
Federal Fair Housing Act that cities deal with in making
these types of determinations, first is that equal
opportunity does not necessarily mean equal treatment,
balancing a variance issue which usually means equal
treatment against a Federal Fair Housing Act provision that
says equal opportunity must be provided, there is some
difference in that issue, the court cases have shown in some
instances that municipalities must sometimes take an
affirmative action to comply with the Federal Fair Housing
Act provisions over and above what local development
standards might entail, a second issue is whether such
application would impose administrative financial costs on
the city, that a determining factor in some of the court
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cases, also, whether future residents would face burdens in
using or occupying the dwelling that are not faced by a non-
handicapped person, that could be an individual coming into
the community and stating they want to occupy the residence
or unit yet in order to do so there needs to be reasonable
accommodations made from the city's general standards to
allow that, and last, the accommodation of the request would
not undermine the fundamental purpose of the city's land use
controls, again, these issues were addressed in the Planning
Commission staff report. The Director showed photographs of
the units on the property, the issue is whether or not there
is a need for modification of the structure to allow the
existing bedrooms to adequately be used by the proposed
occupants. He explained that staff felt this would not be a
grant of special privilege because of the Federal Fair
Housing Act however the Commission disagreed and recommended
denial of the request. To an inquiry of Councilman Yost the
Director explained that the area between the garage and the
alleyway is meant for maneuvering in and out of the garage,
people do park in those areas yet it is not a legal space as
defined under the zoning code, that the reason for the
variance request. The Director noted that initially it was
felt that the side of the structures were too close to the
property line, the plans submitted showed the rear structure
and the front house both being set back three feet however
Code requires a three foot nine inch setback, once the
property was looked at in more detail it was determined the
rear structure is three feet from the property line however
the front house is set back the three feet nine inches
therefore the proposed addition does not entail a variance
for the front house, that was an issue at the first
Commission hearing however was clarified at the second
hearing. Again, if the property had three parking spaces the
request would fall under the minor plan review process, no
variance would have been required, the parking spaces are the
only issue, Code allows for expansions and additions to non-
conforming properties subject to certain conditions, one of
the conditions being at least one parking space for each unit
when there are three or more units, there is different
criteria for two units or less, these standards were put in
place in the early 1990's. The Director pointed out that
Council had been provided copies of the staff report to the
Commission, the minutes and the Commission Resolution, also,
two resolutions have been prepared for Council consideration,
one to sustain the Commission decision to deny the project,
the other to sustain the appeal. Councilman Yost inquired if
there has ever been a situation where the number of units
have been required to be reduced or parking spaces increased
under a similar circumstance. The response of the Director
was no, however in cases where there are more units than
there is parking a variance can be granted, in that case the
Commission needs to make a determination that there is no
reasonable way to provide an additional parking space or
spaces on the property without demolishing a portion of the
structure that exists on the property, through research staff
was unable to identify any recent application that would be
comparable to this, there have been applications to do other
similar things to non-conforming properties however they do
not deal with a lack of parking rather setback issues, etc.
Councilman Yost said to his knowledge the setback issue has
been adhered to, the ground floor of a structure can be non-
conforming yet a second story in compliance with current
Code.
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Mayor Campbell invited members of the audience wishing to
speak to this issue to come to the microphone and identify
themselves. Mr. Whitey Littlefield, Ocean Avenue, requested
and was duly sworn by the City Clerk. Mr. Littlefield stated
he is a resident of approximately ten years, the family of
his wife have been residents for forty years, requested that
the Council sustain the appeal that will allow the
construction of approximately nine feet, this would extend
the two bedrooms and a bathroom that is somewhat larger and
accessible. Mr. Littlefield confirmed that initially the
property was mismeasured, that issue was corrected, the
request falls within the setbacks, the other issue was
parking, the space between the garage and alleyway measures
approximately three inches short of being a legal parking
space. He noted that the proposed resident of the home, his
mother-in-law, has arthritis, from time to time uses a
walker, this addition would merely allow extra living space
in her bedroom, and offered that his contractor was present
to respond to questions if desired. In response to
Councilman Yost, Mr. Littlefield said it would not be
fiscally possible to join the two existing units into one.
Mayor Campbell stated she visited the property, the addition
would merely make the bedroom somewhat larger and a larger
bathroom, the second bedroom is about the size of a closet,
this is simply an enlargement. Mr. Littlefield stated his
belief that the Planning Commission did not understand that
the intent is not to add a bedroom, just enlarge the
bedrooms, clarified that the rear units are upstairs and
downstairs, and mentioned that when he repainted the house
the neighbors applauded. The Mayor noted that the District
Four Commissioner felt this was a policy decision that should
be made by the Council. Ms. Sue Corbin, Seal Beach, claimed
that staff did not present the position of the Planning
Commission, said this should be put off until the Council
reads the Fair Housing Act, claiming this does not come under
that Act, this has nothing to do with a disability, if the
appeal is sustained the City will never be able to enforce
the zoning regulations, including Leisure World, everyone has
some type of disability and everyone wants an additional 200
square feet, there is also threat of a lawsuit. Ms. Corbin
claimed that the Commission wanted the City to develop
guidelines, then this could be reconsidered in six months,
there is nothing special about this property that falls under
a variance, this undermines land use, when there is a
disability the Fair Housing Act allows for larger windows,
larger doors, even a driveway in the front for wheelchair
access, the Act does not allow 237 feet for living space, if
the applicant is allowed this consideration it then must be
allowed for everyone else. Mr. Gordon Shanks, Surf Place,
said this is again a precedent issue, most bothersome is
bringing up the Disabilities Act in order to add square
footage for more comfort, when people purchase properties in
this community they know there are special rules, the
reference to the Act is an implied lawsuit. To a question of
Councilman Yost as to any awareness of a situation of a
homeowner being required to remove a unit because of the lack
of a parking space, Mr. Shanks said not specifically however
there was an issue with allowing granny units and access to a
second story, the problem then is when the property is sold
it can become two units, therefore the need for caution, when
Old Town went to single units that is what has helped to keep
the town what it is, also, to allow the addition of the 237
feet has a monetary value that must be substantial. Mr.
Shanks again expressed his opposition as setting a bad
precedent. There being no further comments, Mayor Campbell
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declared the public hearing closed.
Having served on the Planning Commission for some years prior
to joining the Council, Councilman Larson said he has always
known the Development Services Director to uphold the intent
of the zoning ordinance and with his knowledge, background,
and history of the City, his recommendation to the Commission
was that this be approved, and he would support that
recommendation. Mayor Campbell read Section 6 of the
Resolution that would sustain the appeal and relates to
consistency with the City's General Plan. She mentioned
again that the applicant is not adding more rooms, merely
enlarging what exists, mentioned that the City often gets
caught up with additions because of concern that in the
future someone could convert it to an illegal second unit,
this is not the case. Councilman Yost expressed concern with
this issue, he too does not recall any similar application
while he served on the Planning Commission, it is a Council
policy decision, the issue is to take a structure that is
legal non-conforming because of inadequate parking and allow
an expansion so long as the structure is within the City's
zoning and setbacks without requiring that the property be
brought up to Code with the number of parking spaces or the
reduction of the number of units in order to fall within the
parking requirements for the property, the reduction of units
however could cause a s~gnificant financial hardship, on the
other hand if approved it says that all of the multi-units
with less than required parking, therefore not within Code,
can request to enlarge their property as well, that does
impact what happens in the community and property values, it
alters the character of the community, his preference would
have been to have no staff recommendation as this is a policy
decision for the Council. Noting that this issue is within
his District, Councilman Boyd said he has always been a
champion of the idea of down zoning Old Town as much as
possible, to maintain the single family flavor of Old Town,
and in recent years, with the aid of the low/moderate
setaside, there has been an effort to maintain the existing
housing stock, when an older bungalow goes on the market it
is not the desire to see it torn down and replaced by two
houses on a fifty foot lot, also an advocate of an
owner/occupied rental program where someone buys a legal non-
conforming property such as this, chooses to live on the
property but also wants to enjoy the benefits of a mortgage
offset through rental units, this property has been three
units since 1947, and the improvements to the property since
the new ownership has improved the neighborhood
significantly. Councilman Boyd said the issue is not the
enlargement, it is parking, special privileges are allowed
those who own a business in the City to buy a parking space
for $3,500, but that is denied the residents of the
community. To sustain the appeal and allow this addition of
237 square feet should not be for Reasonable Accommodation,
it should be for property rights and Reasonable Modification,
there are properties where thousands of feet are allowed to
be added that do not meet the sideyard setbacks, a property
having a duplex is a recent example with sideyard setbacks of
three feet, there is concern that ~here is not clear policy
on Reasonable Accommodation, this case should be accomplished
through modification, this enlarges two bedrooms and adds a
bathroom, there is no understanding of the parking issue,
this does not intensify the ability of this or a future
property owner to rent and increase the density of the
property, expanding properties to create new rental
properties has been discouraged in Old Town, this merely
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allows an owner occupied rental property to be improved and
modified so that the owner will want to live there, that
should be encouraged. Councilman Boyd agreed that he too was
uncomfortable with the Reasonable Accommodation issue, this
City has not dealt with that issue before, the Code was
amended in the mid-1990's to allow a multi-family property to
be modified to add square footage to a property like this.
He again spoke to the parking issue, merchants are allowed to
purchase spaces in the 8th and Central lot for $40 per year,
businesses are allowed to purchase parking but the residents
are not. Councilman Boyd made reference to the Resolution
for consideration to sustain the appeal, said he would feel
comfortable with moving forward with this matter and allow
the modification of the property, it is consistent with the
Land Use Element, and in reference to Section 6(d) suggested
that the language that cites the Fair Housing Act be deleted
and deem the request as a Reasonable Modification, and with
adoption there should be an expressed intent that the Council
supports an owner occupied rental program to maintain and
improve property but not intensify the use or create new
rental space, nor create new parking impacts. With the
addition of a bathroom, Councilman Yost inquired if there is
satisfactory assurance that that could not be converted into
another rentable space, the response was that there is, the
other bathroom serves the remainder of the house, the change
is basically from a two bedroom, one bath house to a two
bedroom, two bath house. Councilman Larson said he did not
know Mr. Littlefield, he did not inspect the property, his
concern is with the occupant, a person with needs, it does
not seem right to tell the people they can not enjoy this
house in a city where they have lived for forty years, this
is good for the occupants, the house is now an acceptable
color, there is no increase of vehicles, there is no increase
of households living on the property, rather, it increases
the life of the property and the comfort of the residents.
Councilman Yost questioned what is believed will happen when
in years to come the residents moved and there is then a two
bedroom, two bath unit as opposed to a two bedroom, one bath
unit, what is the likelihood of that being occupied by more
people in the future. Councilman Boyd responded that it will
likely be another owner occupied rental property, where the
owner resides in the front property, this is greater control
than having a three unit duplex with the owner living
elsewhere largely due to the fact that instead of an 870
square foot bungalow it is now a nice house that someone
would enjoy living in. Seal Beach is a supply constrained
market for housing, this City has the second highest rental
property rates in all of Orange County, when there are owner
occupied residents of rental property that is when
improvements occur, the subject property in fact had been an
absentee owner, it could readily be seen that when sold this
would be an owner occupied property and there have been
substantial improvements made. Councilman Larson stated that
the same thing will happen in the future that would happen to
any structure that has had accommodations for a person with
physical needs. Councilman Yost said just as a supposition,
what would happen if a second story were added to the front
bungalow with another two bedrooms and a bathroom and still
,
be within the Code however there would continue to be one or
more parking spaces lacking, would that be a concern.
Councilman Larson offered that everything needs to be taken
into consideration when a proposal is presented, if
modifications were substantial the action could likely be
denial, this proposal is relatively minor in the sense of
what kind of increased use would it make of the property.
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The Mayor reminded that there is a difference between adding
rooms and enlarging them. Councilman Boyd noted that the
scenario given just occurred across the street from this
property, a duplex where they took a 700 to 800 square foot
bungalow, added a very large second story, they had two
units, not one, the Code differentiates a two from a three
unit property, why is unknown, if this property came to the
City to add l,OOO square feet and a second story, would that
be an issue, if they are adding that amount of square footage
to make it a livable owner occupied unit and not a rental
property it is uncertain if he would oppose that, it would be
an improvement of a legal non-conforming property and
encouragement of owner occupancy, with regard to the land use
issue asked if the City wants to approve the selling of
parking to businesses then deny a property having three units
yet lacking the one parking space. Again, as to the
inadequate size of the rear parking area, the Director
confirmed that area is a required no build/no park area for
turning movements and emergency response purposes, it is not
considered to be legal parking even if it were twenty feet in
length. Councilman Yost asked if the reason for recommending
approval of this ,matter was the reference to a person with
disability and opportunity to enjoy their property. The
response of the Director was that that was the primary
reason, the Commission staff report talks quite extensively
of the Reasonable Accommodation of the Fair Housing Act and
some of the court cases, in the past the City has taken a
rather strong position to not grant variances for additions
to structures on this type of a property unless there is at
least one parking space per unit, and in looking at the court
decisions on the Fair Housing Act on the Reasonable
Accommodation/Reasonable Modification issue it was felt that
the City was putting itself in some potential exposure to
deny the request. Mayor Campbell noted that the concern is
with precedent setting, this runs with the land. Councilman
Yost again made reference to the Planning Commission holding
legal non-conforming structures to Code compliance, that an
addition be required to meet Code, that is why additions can
be seen where the setback is required to be met yet the
ground floor is not in compliance, this case is uncomfortable
in that an addition may be allowed without meeting the
requirements for either the units or the required parking, it
can be understood to some degree if that were to occur based
upon a persons disability but not as a precedent, it is
necessary to be careful of things that run with the land, the
issue is the parking requirements, he would agree also with
the desirability of increasing owner occupied rental units
and he would support that as a City policy.
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Councilman Doane moved to sustain the appeal, reversing the
decision of the Planning Commission and allowing the proposed
237 square foot addition to a legal non-conforming building
by the adoption of Resolution Number 4827 entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
SUSTAINING THE APPEAL OF MICHAEL HARDING, APPROVING VARIANCE
00-3, PERMITTING THE ADDITION OF 237 SQUARE FEET TO AN
EXISTING SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE LOCATED ON A NON-CONFORMING
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY AT 220 SEVENTH STREET, SEAL BEACH."
Councilman Larson seconded the motion, however said that is
based upon not deleting the language that Councilman Boyd
requested, in that his vote is based upon the physical
condition of the occupant. Councilman Doane stated his
motion did not include deletion of that language.
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The City Attorney made reference to the issue of precedent,
stated for the record that every property is unique, every
conditional use permit, every variance is based on a
particular circumstance of a particular property, therefore
whatever action is taken on this item only applies to this
specific property, there is no legal obligation to anyone
else who may come in to apply for a variance, each property
is looked at based on its own particular circumstance.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson
Yost Motion carried
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to declare a recess at 10:07 p.m. The Council reconvened at
10:16 with Mayor Campbell calling the meeting to order.
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Councilman Yost requested that the City Attorney prepare an
Accommodation ordinance for persons with disabilities in the
event there are similar applications in the future. The City
Attorney agreed if that is the direction of Council, the Long
Beach ordinance could possibly be looked at. Councilman Boyd
suggested something that would define a Reasonable
Accommodation as well as the Land Use Element in terms of
square footage needed for a Reasonable Accommodation, in the
prior matter 237 square feet was not excessive. The Attorney
noted that what is termed a Minor Accommodation is a very
small percentage in most cities, maybe five or ten percent,
however the Federal Housing Act is what is difficult because
it does not provide any direction, just a general platitude
that accommodations should be made, it is then up to the
local officials to determine what they mean.
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RESOLUTION NUMBER 4828 - CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE -
TRANSFER OF CONTROL
The City Attorney explained that Adelphia Communications has
basically made a trade with Comcast Cable, Comcast is looking
to consolidate their holdings on the east coast and Adelphia
wants to enlarge its holdings on the west coast. He noted
that the City has very little discretion, an attorney in
their firm has reviewed the records and determined that
Adelphia has sufficient resources to adequately provide cable
service to the City, and it should be kept in mind that under
federal law tomorrow is the deadline for taking action, if no
action is taken by the Council at this meeting the transfer
would be deemed approved, there has already been a request
and approval of one extension until tomorrow, this allowed
the City additional time to review their financial records,
therefore the recommendation would be that the City adopt the
Resolution authorizing and consenting to the transfer of
control of the cable television franchise held by Comcast to
Adelphia. The City Attorney noted one additional issue is
the rental of the studio and the control room. The Acting
City Manager introduced Mr. Lee Perrin, Vice President of
Corporate Affairs for Adelphia Communications. The Acting
Manager noted having spoken to Mr. Perrin this date with
regard to the difficulty that the Cable Communications
Foundation may be encountering when the cable operator is no
longer obligated to pay the rental fee for t~e studio and
control room, that being the first months of 2001 and the
fact that the new facility as part of the Bixby development
will not be available for eight to nine months thereafter.
Mr. Perrin expressed appreciation for having an opportunity
to address the Council, Adelphia understands the City is
looking at a transition period with regard to the location
where the public access personnel are housed and operate
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from, said he needs to look at those issues and understand
the lease agreements, costs, and arrangements that Comcast
has had in place, however he is willing to state that at the
close of the transaction, anticipated to be in the fourth
quarter of this year, Adelphia would like to have the
opportunity to meet with City staff and discuss ways that in
a cooperative effort Adelphia can help manage the transition
for the public access programming. Mr. Perrin noted that
Adelphia has been a company since 1952, founded by John
Regis, he still owns the company and plans on keeping it, his
three sons all work and run the company with him, Adelphia
brings a wonderful reputation for excellence in customer
service to the west coast, in a survey of customer service
for all cable operators around the country last year Adelphia
was ranked one of three companies above average, Adelphia is
known for being aggressive with the deployment of new
technologies, it is known that Comcast has done a good job in
rebuilding systems and deploying digital and cable modem
service, Adelphia does that as well, Adelphia is a telephone
company, a competitive local exchange company, they will
begin building a west coast team to offer business to
business telephone data, they installed over 81,000 business
lines in the second quarter of year 2000, and it is hoped by
the end of 2001 to offer competitive local telephone service,
and they are interested in having a strategy where customers
in Seal Beach will have the opportunity to buy services from
Adelphia for less than they can be bought from others.
Councilman Larson inquired if the signage will be Adelphia
Communications or Manchester Corporation. Mr. Perrin
responded that signage will be Adelphia, Manchester is a
holding company owned by the parent company, Adelphia
Communications Corporation. Councilman Doane noted that in
the past there was a government requirement that all cable
companies provide for public access, that requirement no
longer exists however this community is strongly supportive
of its public access, and inquired as to the feelings of
Adelphia in that regard. Mr. Perrin responded that when
Adelphia comes to ,a city they do so to meet or in some cases
exceed all of the obligations of the current franchise, there
is nothing in the City that is currently happening that will
not continue with the transition to Adelphia, with regard to
their philosophy relating to public access, Adelphia is most
likely the largest distributor of local access, public
access, and news in Southern California, they in fact own the
Orange County News network which provides news to Comcast,
Adelphia, cox, and Media One cities, Adelphia is supportive,
has tremendous resources, it is felt it differentiates from
other service providers. To questions relating to channel
changes, rates, areas where Adelphia operates, and the date
OCN was acquired, Mr. Perrin responded that initially there
is no change foreseen in channels and rates, their intent is
to learn the local operation, understand how they can add
value, the digital platform Adelphia provides is a more
robust platform than the one Comcast currently deploys in
Southern California, it is a good platform, aggressive in
putting it out, competitive, the current platform provides
two hundred ten channels of audio and video service, Adelphia
operates in over fifteen states, the sixth largest
telecommunications company in the United States in terms of
the cable industry, that is made up of a vast number of small
communities that they operate and serve, OCN has been owned
by Adelphia since October, 1999.
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Boyd moved, second by Doane, to adopt Resolution Number 4828
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
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SEAL BEACH AUTHORIZING AND CONSENTING TO THE TRANSFER OF
CONTROL OF A CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE HELD BY COMCAST
CABLEVISION OF SEAL BEACH, INC." By unanimous consent, full
reading of Resolution Number 4828 was waived.
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Councilman Yost asked if the City had done due diligence in
reviewing this company, what was done to assure that the City
wants to approve this, and does the City have to approve the
sale. The City Attorney responded in the affirmative,
explaining that the City has very little discretion based on
the deadline, he is aware of Adelphia coming into about eight
cities, they took over Century and Comcast, their law firm
has dealt with this issue for about a year and a half, and as
set forth in the Resolution, they have the requisite
financial, technical, and legal qualifications to perform all
of the legal obligations of the franchise. Councilman Yost
asked if there is an awareness of problems in other cities,
and is there any possibility of renegotiating the contract
given the change of ownership. The City Attorney stated he
was not aware of any problems, historically there had been
problems in cities serviced by Century and Comcast, that has
not occurred with Adelphia, and under the franchise, if
Adelphia can meet the requirements of the City the City can
not unreasonably withhold consent, a transfer does not open
the agreement to renegotiations.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
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POLICY STATEMENT - LOCALLY DESIGNATED HISTORIC STRUCTURES
The Director of Development Services presented the staff
report, the request is the adoption of a policy statement
that would establish a list of locally significant historic
structures within the City, noting that the Municipal Code
allows for properties designated as a local historic property
to apply for a Historic Conditional Use Permit, that Permit
would allow certain modifications to those structures subject
to the provisions set forth in the policy statement, certain
language from that ordinance is actually restated in the
Policy. He mentioned also that the State of California has
adopted the 1997 Uniform Code for Building Conservation, that
Code deals with additions, remodels, and relocations of
existing structures and sets forth certain standards that
would apply to those types of structures where they would not
be required to be totally brought up to current day Building
Code requirements, in that Code there is also a definition of
an historic structure as well as a separate chapter that sets
forth the parameters as to how those historic structures do
remodeling, additions, relocation of a structure, what needs
to be brought to current standards and what portions of the
structure would not yet still resolve any life and safety
issues, fire exiting, etc. He said given the issues that
have come up with both the Krenwinkle and Proctor homes, it
is suggested that those two structures be placed on the
policy statement and adopted. The Director reported that
this is an issue that the Council began to deal with in 1991,
this Council has been provided the policy statement from that
time however that Council took no action, that statement was
aimed only at the Historic CUP of the City Code and proposed
a much longer list of structures to be included in that list.
He noted that this issue is somewhat of a fallout of two
recent Council actions, the adoption of the Residential
Conservation Overlay Zone that deals with bed and breakfast
uses in certain areas of the City, the Council requested a
report back from staff with regard to establishing a historic
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preservation program in the community on a larger scope, that
was presented in March and has been continued to a time
uncertain when it is desired to bring that issue up once
again, at that same time it was recommended that the Council
establish a list of locally designated structures, the
primary purpose is to qualify under the Historic CUP
provisions of the City Code, that has been in existence for a I
number of years, yet until the City designates certain
structures there is no structure in the community that can ,
apply under those Code 'provisions, thus there is no structure
that would be of an historic nature that could do a remodel
or addition or major alteration without having to bring the
entire structure up to current building standards, this would
provide that flexibility. Mayor Campbell made reference to
the proposed Historical Buildings Inventory of 1991, and
inquired if any of those structures have been lost since
then. The Director said he believed that a couple of them no
longer exist, it is not certain that the Krenwinkle house
listed on 12th Street is correct, however it has been said
that two different houses had been moved from Anaheim Bay.
He noted that staff is not requesting approval of the 1991
structure listing, rather, the Locally Designated Historic
Structures policy Statement of August 14th, 2000 that sets
forth the Krenwinkle and Proctor houses. Councilman Boyd
noted that the Policy mentions locally historic buildings or
structures, and asked why the Old City Hall is not listed.
The Director clarified that at this time only those
structures that were known to be coming forth for some type
of remodeling or relocation were of immediate concern,
suggesting that if it is felt the policy Statement in general
complies with the Historic Conditional Use Permit and the I
Uniform Building Code provisions then staff would want to go
back and look at the 1991 policy Statement to review the
buildings and structures on that list and if it is felt they
are still appropriate to include on the 2000 Statement they
could be brought back to the Council for addition thereto,
also, the Old City Hall structure is on the National Register
of Historic Places, a higher level of recognition than most
other structures in the community, it is not believed that
the municipal pier would qualify in that it likely does not
predate 1925. The Mayor asked that the 1991 list of
structures be looked at for similar protection.
Boyd moved, second by Doane, to adopt the Policy Statement
regarding the designation of Locally Designated Historic
Structures.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
REFINANCING - ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NUMBER 94-1 - SURFSIDE
COLONY UNDERGROUNDING BONDS
Councilman Boyd noted that this is an existing Assessment
District for which there has been an opportunity to refinance
for a savings to the taxpayers of Surfside Colony of their
assessment upon themselves of approximately $300,000. The
Director of Administrative Services reported that the actual
amount of savings, based upon the borrowed amount of
$1,434,000, is between $120 to $150 annually, the aggregate
savings to be in excess of $340,000. She invited any
questions to be directed to the bond legal counselor the
bond underwriter. Councilman Boyd expressed appreciation for
this effort on behalf of the three hundred thirteen Surfside
Colony homeowners.
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ASSESSMENT DISTRICT REFINANCING - RESOLUTIONS NUMBERED
4829 / 4830 /4831
Boyd moved, second by Larson, to adopt Resolution Number 4829
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH DECLARING INTENTION TO UNDERTAKE REASSESSMENT
PROCEEDINGS AND TO ISSUE LIMITED OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS
BY SUMMARY PROCEEDINGS WITHOUT NOTICE AND HEARING" (Surfside
Colony Reassessment District No. 2000-1). By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 4829 was waived.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
Boyd moved, second by Larson, to adopt Resolution Number 4830
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH APPROVING AND CONFIRMING THE REPORT ON THE LEVY OF
REASSESSMENTS AND THE REFUNDING OF ITS 1915 IMPROVEMENT
BONDS" (surfside Colony Reassessment District No. 2000-1).
By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number 4830
was waived.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
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Boyd moved, second by Larson, to adopt Resolution Number 4831
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH APPROVING ISSUANCE AND SALE OF NOT TO EXCEED
$1,800,000 MILLION PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF AUTHORITY 2000
REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS, APPROVING FORM AND SUBSTANCE OF
INDENTURE OF TRUST AND AUTHORIZING CHANGES THERETO; APPROVING
A PRELIMINARY OFFICIAL STATEMENT AND AUTHORIZING CHANGES
THERETO, APPROVING A LOCAL OBLIGATiON PURCHASE CONTRACT, A
BOND PURCHASE CONTRACT, A CONTINUING DISCLOSURE CERTIFICATE
AND AN ENGAGEMENT LETTER WITH FULBRIGHT & JAWORSKI, L.L.P.,
AND AUTHORIZING CHANGES THERETO AND EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF
EACH, AND AUTHORIZING RELATED ACTIONS NECESSARY TO IMPLEMENT
THE PROPOSED REFUNDING PROGRAM" (2000 Authority Refunding
Revenue Bonds). By unanimous consent, full reading of
Resolution Number 4831 was waived.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
SEAL BEACH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY MEETING
Chairman Campbell called to order the meeting of the Seal
Beach Public Financing Authority.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Chairman Campbell
Authority Members Boyd, Doane, Larson, Yost
Absent:
None
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PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY RESOLUTION NUMBER PFA-004 - 2000
AUTHORITY REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS
Resolution Number PFA-004 was presented to the Authority
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SEAL
BEACH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE,
SALE AND DELIVERY OF NOT TO EXCEED $2,500,000 DOLLARS
AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF 2000 AUTHORITY REFUNDING
REVENUE BONDS, APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING EXECUTION AND
DELIVERY OF INDENTURE OF TRUST, A PRELIMINARY OFFICIAL
STATEMENT AND AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO BE DERIVED THEREFROM,
A LOCAL OBLIGATION PURCHASE CONTRACT, A BOND PURCHASE
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CONTRACT, AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BOND
COUNSEL, AND AUTHORIZING RELATED ACTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH
THE ISSUANCE, SALE AND DELIVERY OF THE 2000 AUTHORITY
REFUNDING REVENUE BONDS (2000 Authority Refunding Revenue
Bonds). By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution
Number PFA-004 was waived. Boyd moved, second by Larson, to
adopt Resolution Number PFA-004.
AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
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By unanimous consent the Seal Beach Public Financing
Authority meeting was adjourned.
RESOLUTION NUMBER 4832 - ISSUANCE - LIMITED OBLIGATION
REFUNDING BONDS - SURFSIDE COLONY REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO.
2000-1
Resolution Number 4832 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION ,OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF CITY OF SEAL BEACH LIMITED
OBLIGATION REFUNDING BONDS OF THE SURFS IDE COLONY
REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2000-1; PRESCRIBING THE FORM OF
SAID BONDS AND CERTAIN TERMS AND PROVISIONS THEREFOR,
AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF SAID BONDS, PROVIDING FOR THE
COLLECTION OF REASSESSMENTS TO PAY THE PRINCIPAL OF AND
INTEREST ON SAID BONDS, APPROVING THE SALE OF SAID BONDS TO
THE SEAL BEACH PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND APPROVING FORM
AND SUBSTANCE OF PRELIMINARY OFFICIAL STATEMENT AND EXECUTION
OF FINAL OFFICIAL STATEMENT TO BE DERIVED THEREFROM"
(Surfside Colony Reassessment District 2000-1). Councilman
Boyd inquired about taking action to form the Surfside Colony
Reassessment District No. 2000-1, to that bond counsel, Mr.
Sperry, advised that that was done with the adoption of
Resolution Number 4830. By unanimous consent, full reading
of Resolution Number 4832 was waived. Boyd moved, second by
Larson, to adopt Resolution Number 4832 as presented.
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AYES:
NOES:
Boyd, Campbell, Doane, Larson, Yost
None Motion carried
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
No report was presented.
CITY MANAGER REPORT
The Acting City Manager ,conveyed appre,ciation to the Council
for having had the confidence in his ability to serve in that
capacity during the past several weeks.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilman Doane commended Mi: Dorsey foihis efforts as
Acting City Manager as did other members of the Council.
Councilman Yost reported that the San Gabriel Rivers and
Mountains Conservancy met on Friday, they have hired an
Executive Director, the Conservancy has been funded with $15
million to date, another $10 million may be forthcoming,
their meetings and minutes are on their web site, the
meetings are public, one member of the Board retired and will
need to be replaced, all other positions are filled. He
mentioned again the upcoming Volleyball Tournament.
Councilman Boyd noted that the Main Street alley is open,
expressed appreciation to staff, stating the project was a
worthy endeavor. With regard to the Seal Beach Boulevard
project he mentioned that the inconvenient delays should not
last much longer, and to the median, said he presumed there
will be trees, and inquired if there will be turf or plants.
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The Director of Public Works explained that at present the
City is awaiting additional dirt, that is coming from the
sewer project, City crews will then amend the soil, install
an irrigation system, there is about two hundred fifty
fifteen gallon trees anticipated, the size is a requirement
of the grant, as a result, in addition to beautification it
is hoped that this will slow traffic speeds as well, the
intent is to use ground cover rather than turf, turf uses
more water and labor, ground cover will also add color, there
will be some hardscape, the Recreation and Parks Director has
been working with the tree committee, some architects, and
the Parks Supervisor on this project. Councilman Boyd
mentioned that if there are other opportunities for medians
in the community he would like to see a variation of turf and
ground cover use, it is understood that the continuation of
the greening of the Bolsa parkway will take place this year
as well. With regard to the time frame for the Boulevard
improvements, the Public Works Director reported that the Gas
Company phase is nearly ,complete, the sewer line replacement
will be finished shortly thereafter, it is a week ahead of
schedule, all southbound lanes should be open this week, the
northbound possibly the following week, then the paving phase
which as yet does not have a start date. To Councilman
Larson's inquiry as to something taking place on Westminster
Avenue, the Public Works Director stated that it is a Long
Beach project, possibly the bridge, and there was work too by
the Orange County Water District on some injection wells.
Mayor Campbell thanked the City crews for the weeding in the
Lampson Avenue center divider.
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ADJOURNMENT
By unanimous consent, the Council adjourned the meeting until
August 28th at 6:15 p.m. to meet in Closed Session relating
to employee negotiations. The meeting was adjourned at 11:10
p.m.
o
ex-off'cio clerk
Seal Beach
Approved:
~WJ~J e~
Mayof
Attest:
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Seal Beach, California
August 28, 2000
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
adjourned session at 6:15 p.m. with Mayor Campbell calling
the meeting to order with the Salute to the Flag.