HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Min 1990-11-13
11-5-90/11-13-90
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previous EIR and the statistics of that document as factual
information, and inquired if City staff could review the EIR
and pinpoint areas such as traffic, air quality, etc., that
should likewise be updated. Councilmember Hastings noted
the analysis of the project had shown an approximate
$175,000 shortfall, that the proposed initiative is based on
the same plan and EIR, therefore it appears that an update
of the financial analysis is intended to benefit the
initiative that may be before the voters. Mayor ProTem
Laszlo inquired if Michael Brandman & Associates had
indicated that Mola Development is seeking an update of the
financial analysis, what recourse the City would have to
such request, or if another firm could be selected by the
City to do the analysis. Mr. Archibold stated the City
could not prevent Mola from doing a revised analysis,
however the City would have the option of requesting a
separate financial study.
There were no Oral Communications and no Closed Session was
held.
ADJOURNMENT
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to adjourn the meeting at 10:23 a.m.
Cl.
ci
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Approved:
~.....j~/~r
Mayor Pro Tem
Attest:
Seal Beach, California
November 13, 1990
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
adjourned session at 6:00 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the
meeting to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Wilson
Councilmembers Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt,
Laszlo
.1
Absent:
None
Also present: Mr. Archibold, Acting city Manager
Mr. Barrow, Assistant City Attorney
Mr. Whittenberg, Director of Development
Services
Mrs. Yeo, City Clerk
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CLOSED SESSION
The Assistant City Attorney announced the Council would meet
in Closed Session to discuss personnel matters, a matter of
pending litigation regarding Mola Corporation versus city of
Seal Beach, and a matter of threatened litigation against
the city. It was the unanimous consensus of the Council to
adjourn to Closed Session at 6:02 p.m. The Council I
reconvened at 6:50 p.m. with no action reported to have been
taken on the previously announced items of discussion.
ADJOURNMENT
It was the consensus of the Council to adjourn the meeting
at 6:52 p.m.
clerk of the
Approved:
~~) ':f.. ~~ ~
Mayor
Attest:
I
Seal Beach, California
November 13, 1990
The city Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
session at 7:02 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the meeting
to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Wilson
Councilmembers Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt,
Laszlo
Absent: None
Also present: Mr. Archibold, Acting City Manager
Mr. Barrow, Assistant city Attorney
Mr. Whittenberg, Director of Development
Services
Mrs. Yeo, city Clerk
WAIVER OF FULL READING
Councilmember Hastings reported of a request to read I
Resolution Number 3985 in full. Laszlo moved, second by
Hastings, to waive the 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 the title
unless specific request is made at that time for the reading
of such ordinance or resolution.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
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PRESENTATIONS
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75th Anniversarv Committee - Resolutions Numbered 3989 and
~
Resolution Number 3989 was presented to Council and read in
full by Mayor Wilson entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF
, THE COMMITTEE FOR THE CITY's 75th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION"
as was Resolution Number 3990 entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY OF SEAL BEACH, cALIFORNIA, RECOGNIZING THE
ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE COMMUNITY SUPPORT PARTICIPANTS FOR
THE CITY's 75th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION." Laszlo moved,
second by Forsythe, to adopt Resolutions Numbered 3989 and
3990 as presented. Mayor Wilson presented a copy of the
respective Resolution, a commemorative plaque, and a floral
bouquet to each Committee member and the representative of
each of the community support groups, and each member of the
Committee was presented with a 75th Anniversary banner.
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AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
Members of the Council extended appreciation for the success
of the 75th Anniversary celebration and efforts of the
Committee. Ms. Dorothy Whyte, Committee Chairperson,
expressed appreciation to the City on behalf of the
Committee.
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Seal Beach International FriendshiD Association
Ms. Barbara Wright, President of the Seal Beach Friendship
Association, read a communication addressed to the City
Council with regard to Seal Beach's sister City, Todas
Santos in Baja Sur, reporting that a meeting was held on
October 26th with a delegation from La Paz and Todas Santos,
Mayor Wilson and representatives of the City and Friendship
Association, at which time a youth cultural exchange was
discussed that would involve baseball and swimming teams.
Ms. Wright requested that the Council appoint an individual
to act as liaison to Todos Santos, that the Recreation
Department be responsible for a June, 1991 swim exchange and
competitions, and that the Seal Beach Kids Baseball
Association be responsible for selecting children for a
baseball exchange with Todas Santos. It was the consensus
of the Council to continue this item until a future agenda.
AGENDA AMENDED
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to consider items "DD",
"EE", "FF", "II", and "JJ" after items "C" and "D",
proclamations.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
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PROCLAMATIONS
Mayor Wilson proclaimed November 18th through November 24th,
1990 as "National Family Week."
The Mayor proclaimed the holiday months of 1990 and all of
1991 as "BUCkle-Up For Life Challenge."
ITEM "BB" - PETITION - LEISURE WORLD MUTUAL TWO - HELICOPTER
NOISE ABATEMENT
The Acting city Manager reported the City is in receipt of a
petition from residents of Leisure World Mutual Two
containing approximately six hundred signatures in objection
to the noise generated from the helicopter operations at
North American Rockwell, also receipt of a draft copy of
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Rockwell Seal Beach Noise Study prepared by Heliport
Consultants, Thousand Oaks, that study forwarded to the
County Health Care Department for review and comment. Mrs.
Bonnet Winter, 1231 Golden Rain Road, noted that the City
has police powers over all land use within its boundaries,
that Leisure World was constructed pursuant to the Codes ~f
the city prior to Rockwell being allowed to develop their
industrial site, without buffers to protect the adjacent
residents from their activities, that the heliport was
initially approved without public hearing, and more recently I
approval was granted to relocate the heliport to an area
closer to Leisure World residences, again without public
input. She offered that the Planning commission and City
Council have the authority to review conditional uses and
land uses when there is a question of public nuisance
arising or a change of conditions to cause adverse
environmental impacts. Ms. winter stated that Mutual 2, of
which she is the elected president, functions under the
Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, and on
behalf of the eight hundred sixty-four Mutual 2 shareholders
she asked that the Council request the Planning commission
and Planning Department to review Rockwell's development
plan with specific attention to the relocation of the
heliport site to an area where the noise that is appurtenant
to landing and takeoff does not reverberate against the
homes of Leisure World residents, and that there be a public
process for the affected residents to express their concerns
to this situation as well as to the potential traffic
increases on Westminster Avenue and Seal Beach Boulevard as
a result of the proposed relocation of the Rockwell
corporate headquarters to Seal Beach. Mr. Tom Lyons,
Concerned Shareholders of Leisure World, stated he had filed
a report and recording of the helicopter noise with Rockwell
last November at which time he was advised that the problem
would be presented to their corporate officers, which he I
said it has not, and reported objection was raised to his
suggestion to move the helicopter pad to the south of the
buildings because there are building plans for that
location. He said Rockwell had proposed to reroute the
helicopter flight path, however sound readings showed there
to be no difference, another alternative was to place the
pad atop the building which also made a negligible
difference. Mr. Lyons stated he had looked at the noise
report prepared for Rockwell with some criticism, the
readings not taking into consideration the wind factor or
time of day, and concluded that relocation would reduce the
noise level by 2.5db, which he said would be inadequate,
made reference to the various noise levels contained in the
report and charged that the Rockwell helicopters are
operating in violation of the City'S noise ordinance. He
added that the original flight application stated that the
flights in and out would be listed separately, subsequently
the FAA report allowed eighty flights per month, yet as many
as twelve flights per day have been observed. Staff advised
that a noise study has not been conducted by the City, that
a study could be commenced through the County Health
Department if that were the desire of the Council, which
would take between thirty to forty-five days. councilman
Hunt noted that the speakers have met with Rockwell and the I
City, have seen no progress, have now submitted petitions of
more than six hundred persons who have been subjected to
this noise condition, and suggested that a commitment be
made to investigate the situation, seek the assistance of
the County, and take whatever action is necessary to obtain
the cooperation of Rockwell for an action and enforcement of
all existing regulations. Staff confirmed that an area to
the south of the existing buildings is proposed for
construction however there would be adequate remaining land
that could be used for helicopter purposes. Discussion
continued. The Development Services Director offered that
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staff could meet with Rockwell to inform them of the
problem, discuss the issues and the current provisions of
the City Code, meet with the Orange County Health Department
to obtain the cost involved to obtain additional noise
measurements, review the original CUP to determine the
criteria under which the helicopter operation was granted,
also contact the FAA to determine if there is violation of
their regulations. Mrs. winter requested to be included in
any meetings held with Rockwell. Councilman Laszlo
requested a copy of the noise study prepared for Rockwell.
Councilman Hunt introduced and read the background of Mr.
Ernie Winter, whom he said he intended to appoint to the
Solid Waste Advisory Committee.
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ITEM "EE" - HELLMAN SPECIFIC PLAN COMMITTEE
Councilman Laszlo made reference to the initiative that is
in the process of being circulated, sponsored by the
developer, regarding the Hellman property Specific Plan, and
said it has been suggested that there be an alternative to
allow the voters a choice, therefore suggested that the
Hellman Specific Plan Committee, formed prior to the
initiative, be charged with the duty of developing a plan to
likewise be placed on the ballot. Ms. Joyce Risner, member
of the Hellman Specific Plan Committee, expressed her
objection, stating she felt such action would politicize the
Committee, forcing the development of a plan and evaluation
of liquefaction, mitigation, etc. within a short time frame,
where the Hellman plan was developed over a period of four
and one-half years with citizen input to the Council,
Planning Commission, various City commissions and State
agencies. She stated that if another plan is proposed for
the ballot it too should qualify through the initiative
petition process. Ms. Risner confirmed that the initiative
does have some financial support however those persons
involved in the initiative petition process are not being
paid, and in response to a question of Council stated the
park plan, developed by the Recreation Commission, had
received basic approval from the Council, yet formal
approval had not been taken pending the second reading of
the ordinances approving the project, and pointed out that
the plan for the park is set forth in the initiative as are
the guarantees that the park and wetlands will be
constructed and completed. Councilmember Forsythe noted
that the Specific Plan Committee was called for as part of
the Resolution denying the Mola project, the Committee to
develop a City initiated plan for the Hellman property.
Discussion continued. with regard to a question as to
whether a change to the Committee assignment at this time
would constitute not serving the best interest of the City
in view of the pending Mola lawsuit, the Assistant city
Attorney responded he did not feel a directive to develop an
initiative plan within a specific period of time would
necessarily be a change in direction since the initial
responsibility was to develop alternatives for the property
to be considered by the City, that the only potential risk,
which does not involve the initiative process, is if the
Committee developed a plan that would not provide a
reasonable, viable use of the property, which could lead to
potential exposure, and should that be the case the Council
would be made aware of such risk and it would likewise need
to be addressed in the impartial analysis. Discussion
continued.
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Councilman Laszlo moved that the Hellman Specific Plan
Committee be charged with the responsibility to develop a
conceptual or complete plan by December 1st, or possibly the
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concept of what is being considered by that date.
Councilmember Forsythe requested that the motion be amended
to extend the time frame by two weeks. Councilmember
Hastings seconded the motion as amended. Councilman Hunt
stated he would oppose the motion, that the record reflects
his opinion that the previous plan was satisfactory and took
a number of years to develop, and in his opinion did not I
feel it was realistic to expect the citizens committee to
develop a plan with detail and definition sufficient to pass
on to the electorate within a relatively short period of
time. Mayor Wilson said she felt an alternative ballot
measure was unnecessary since the voters will have the
opportunity to express their views on the Hellman Specific
Plan Amendment Initiative. Councilmember Forsythe noted the
B-2, lower density plan, was developed in a relatively short
period of time, also that it was felt that the Committee
could resolve the questions and concerns that were set forth
in the Resolution of denial of the Specific Plan, and if so,
that should be placed on the ballot for consideration.
Councilmember Hastings spoke for allowing the voters a
choice, and called for the question.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Laszlo
Hunt, Wilson
Motion carried
It was the consensus of the Council to declare a recess at
8:29 p.m. The Council reconvened at 8:39 p.m. with Mayor
Wilson calling the meeting to order.
There was brief discussion with regard to public comments on
agenda items and the procedure to call for the vote on a
motion.
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ITEM "FF" - WETLANDS RESTORATION SOCIETY - BALLOT MEASURE
Councilman Laszlo said the Wetlands Restoration Society had
requested that their plan be considered to be placed before
the voters. Mr. Galen Ambrose, Wetlands Restoration
Society, made reference to housing construction in the
County, a reported reduction of development projects by the
Irvine Company, and approximately twenty thousand homes in
the planning stage within the City of Huntington Beach that
will affect traffic and access to the freeways and impact
Seal Beach. He said the plan to preserve the wetlands, in
keeping with the Council decision with regard to the hazards
of the Hellman Ranch, would be presented by the Secretary of
the Wetlands Society. Mr. Don May, 2333 Elm Avenue, Long
Beach, said he wished to present some reasonable approaches
to the Hellman Ranch property, however it is difficult to
develop a solid alternative as long as the Mola Corporation
has an option on the land, yet it may be more reasonable to
implement an alternative based upon the findings adopted by
the Council in denying the Mola project. Mr. May made
reference to various hazardous conditions that he said the
City has found to exist on the Hellman property making it
unsuitable as a building site, therefore it would now be
logical to implement the findings by placing a hazardous
overlay zone on that property. He said the current
Initiative situation would make it difficult to bring forth
Specific Plans where they can not presently be perfected,
and offered that there are numerous agencies interested in
funding restoration however are unable to act until such
time as the Mola option is withdrawn, making specific
reference to the Orange County Recreation Department, also
to the need of a number of projects, such as the Disney
Corporation with their proposal in Long Beach, to achieve a
certain amount of restoration. He stated it is the belief
of the Wetlands Society that if a hazardous overlay is
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considered it too should be placed before the voters since a
direct initiative takes precedence over an action of the
Council and the courts look more favorably upon the
initiative process. He offered that there may be a number
of proposals for the subject property that would be a
financial advantage to the Hellman family and most likely
compatible with the oil production use currently on the
site. Mr. May recommended that a hazardous zone overlay be
submitted to the voters as an alternative to the Specific
Plan Initiative, which would allow various open space uses
that would not be incompatible with the site and provide a
stronger legal position to implement whatever Specific Plan
that may eventually be developed. He also suggested the
Planning Commission be directed to consider industrial,
residential, commercial and/or open space use for the bluff
area. In response to Council, the Assistant City Attorney
advised that from a procedural point there could be no
action at this time on the action proposed by the Wetlands
Society, noting the necessity to proceed through the
planning process with appropriate public hearings to change
the zoning or amend the General Plan, unless the Council
chose to do so with a four-fifths vote, which he advised he
would not recommend in view of pending litigation, pointing
out also that the Hellman Specific Plan ballot initiative
would prevail if adopted by the voters even if the Wetlands
proposal was accepted for consideration through the planning
process. with regard to a charge that such action could
significantly reduce the value of the property, the
Assistant City Attorney reported there is case law on the
issue of taking, specifically noting a Los Angeles case
where the Supreme Court determined that if cities take
certain actions that can be viewed as diminishing the value
of a property, damages can be incurred. Mr. May said the
Society had used caution in phrasing their proposal to not
only avoid intimation that the property value would be
diminished but to point out that the Hellman Ranch would be
permitted to continue the current land use, and with regard
to the Mola litigation he added that a developer proceeds
with speculation at their own risk. He again stated that a
development proposal or potential financing source could not
make a firm proposal for wetlands restoration on the Hellman
property until such time as the Mola option ceases to exist,
and acknowledged that the Ports had indicated there would be
funds for restoration however there would be difficulty in
acquiring the land. Mr. Tim Roberts, Director of Finance
and Operations, Mola Development Corporation, said that he
found the comments of Mr. May inaccurate as to the
understanding of the relationship in the property of Mola
Development and somewhat legally questionable for the
Secretary of the Wetland Restoration Society to strategize a
positioning effort for Mola to lose the option on the
Hellman property, also made reference to the Wetland
Restoration Society court appeal to place affordable housing
on the subject property. Mr. Victor Grgas, 15th Street,
referred to the petition effort thus far to place the
Hellman Specific Plan Initiative on the ballot, and said he
felt it would be unfair to consider placing the Wetland
Society or the Specific Plan Committee before the voters
simply by request and Council action. Mr. Grgas inquired
how the City Attorney could render an impartial judgment on
a concept plan that may be developed by the Specific Plan
Committee without the benefit of an environmental or
financial analysis, or evaluation as to whether the plan
could be carried out, also stated he found it interesting
that the Wetlands Society would request the Hellman property
be zoned for a hazardous condition where at least two soils
and geotechnical studies determined that the property can be
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developed, and although the Wetlands proposal may seem
plausible it is based on assumption that Mola has an option
on the property, rather than the joint venture partnership
with Hellman, therefore it would be necessary to purchase
Mola's interests for them to leave the project. Mr. Roberts
clarified that Mola Corporation is a participating partner
throughout the development of the three hundred twenty-nine I
home project. Mr. Galen Ambrose spoke for placing the
Wetlands Restoration Society proposal on the ballot.
Councilman Laszlo requested that the Wetlands Society
provide their plan to the Council for placement on an
upcoming agenda for consideration. Councilmember Forsythe
expressed her feeling that community support would be needed
for the Wetlands Plan, that the intent of the Hellman
Specific Plan Committee was to bring together
representatives of all factions of the City to develop a
plan that was felt to be geologically safe, environmentally
sensitive, and financially beneficial to the City, and that
she could not support placing a variety of initiative plans
on the ballot. Mr. Scott Whyte, 4416 Candleberry Avenue,
made reference to previous comments regarding the taking of
property, stated a taking would require an analysis with a
finding that a governmental action, such as the hazardous
overlay zone, would fail to substantially further a
legitimate government goal, where in this case the
resolution denying the Mola project for reasons of safety
would constitute such finding, substantiated by subsections
of Government Code Section 66474, also a finding that the
property owner is denied an economically viable use of the
land, and said the Wetlands proposal, with development on
the bluff areas, would seem to be an economically viable
use. Mr. Whyte made reference to a recent court opinion I
involving the issue of taking, and in the case of the
Hellman property where the present use is oil extraction,
there would be no taking. Mr. Ambrose stated the hazardous
overlay zone was proposed at this time in an effort to allow
the Specific Plan Committee to develop an alternative plan
for the Hellman property. The Council informed Ms. Barbara
Wright, Crestview Avenue, that there had been no provision
for alternate representatives to the Specific Plan Committee
where the regular member was unable to attend the meetings.
Ms. Suzanne Andre, 1300 Crestview Avenue, recalled a
conversation at an Orange County Harbors, Beaches, and Parks
meeting where an individual interested in the Hellman
property stated that as long as the Mola option exists there
would be no need to discuss a further use of that site. She
noted that during recent years many residents were involved
in attempting to modify original Mola development proposal,
ultimately supporting the compromise of the three hundred
twenty-nine unit plan, however expressed her opinion that
several years ago the Hellman land was improperly rezoned
without consideration of the now known seismic, soils, and
geologic hazards on the site, and suggested that the
Committee and the City now proceed in concert with the
adopted findings, considering all possible uses, to develop
a plan for the Hellman property, and if rezoning is I
necessary it should reflect the proper use of the land, and
not be downzoned. Ms. Carla Watson, 1635 Catalina Avenue,
concurred with the comments of Ms. Andre, adding that
residents became involved with the Hellman plan as a result
of concern with over-development, that there was an
unwillingness by members of the Council to reduce the plan,
and that a proposal of Mola to fund an initiative in the
past had been rejected as that was felt to be inappropriate.
She claimed that the present initiative does not provide a
buffer to the existing residences as had previously been
promised, simply backyard abutting backyard, that the
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original citizen group which collected signatures to support
saving Gum Grove Park is partially responsible for the
designation of more acreage for wetlands which was
accomplished through communications to various state
agencies. Ms. Watson announced that the group called Seal
Beach citizens United has been reactivated, and as gathered
from a number of conversations, claimed that the initiative
petition being circulated is being misrepresented, and
offered her feeling that it is inappropriate to place a
developer sponsored initiative on the ballot. Ms. Joyce
Risner, Driftwood Avenue, said as a member of the Harbors,
Beaches and Parks Commission she had made a proposal to that
body to support the restoration of Gum Grove Park in some
way, the resulting recommendation was that if the city owned
the land $180,000 would be recommended to the Board of
Supervisors for donation to the Park restoration, also that
other funding may become available through the County on a
competitive basis as a result of park bond issues. She
stated the Specific Plan Initiative does not propose to
build on the fault, that the Plan is in compliance with the
Alquist Priola Act, and although it is realized that
liquefaction exists on the property, the opinion of geologic
experts was that the lowlands could be compacted and
developed under stringent construction methods. Ms. Jody
Weir, Beachcomber Drive, noted her involvement with the
initiative committee and training of those persons
circulating the petitions, said it would not be
inappropriate for a circulator to advise a voter that the
petition would allow the initiative to be placed on the
ballot, and spoke in favor of the support provided the
initiative effort by Mola Development. Councilman Laszlo
noted a September 21st reply to the Leighton and Associates
report that claimed fault data was scarce and critical
information was missing. No formal action was taken on this
item.
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ITEM "GG" - SPECIFIC PLAN BALLOT MEASURE
Councilman Laszlo said since Specific Plan issues in recent
years have resulted in elections, he would suggest a
possible ballot measure to place all Specific Plans to a
vote of the people and that the City Council be designated
as the body to initiate Specific Plans. Mr. Charles Antos,
17th Street, suggested that all existing Specific Plans
likewise be placed on the ballot to be affirmed by a vote of
the people as well as any amendment thereto. He also
suggested an open space, parks, and golf course measure to
require voter approval prior to any change of the General
Plan or zoning designation, supported requiring voter
approval prior to adoption or amendment of any Specific
Plan, also asked that voter approval be required prior to an
increase of General Plan or zoning density of any parcel of
land designated residential. Mr. Laird Mueller, 8th Street,
spoke in favor of placing the additional measures on the
ballot, also for voter denial of the Mola Corporation
sponsored Hellman Specific Plan Initiative. Mr. Bruce
Stark, Seal Beach, related his experiences regarding a prior
initiative, and supported placing all of the previously
mentioned measures to a vote. Ms. Carla Watson, Catalina
Avenue, asked that no measure be considered with regard to
widening of Pacific Coast Highway. No formal action was
taken.
ITEM "HH" - VOTING MATERIALS - LEISURE WORLD
Councilman Laszlo inquired if during the election campaign
persons would be allowed to enter Leisure World and
distribute literature, whether they be for or against an
issue, also if Leisure World residents would be allowed to
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distribute literature. Councilman Hunt responded that the
elected officers of neither the Golden Rain Foundation or
the individual Mutuals as an elected body will participate
in any election activity, and that the regulations set forth
in the By-Laws of the Golden Rain Foundation with regard to
campaigning are applied equally no matter a persons
political position. Ms. Betty Cheevers, Leisure World I
resident, confirmed that she has distributed campaign
materials, however directed to cease by Security.
Councilman Laszlo charged that the citizens of Leisure World
are being deprived their constitutional rights to hear all
sides of an issue by restricting the distribution of
election materials. Councilman Hunt noted that each owner
of a unit in Leisure World is a shareholder, and as such
make decisions as to what they will or will not allow on
their private property, also offered that there is a
procedure for the various groups in Leisure World to invite
persons to speak. Ms. Elise Coury, Leisure World resident,
offered that any information can be distributed through the
mail as well as via the newspaper to each unit in Leisure
World. Councilman Laszlo made reference to the cost
involved to distribute information by mail, stated he felt
this is a civil rights issue, that if Leisure World
residents do not hear all sides they should not vote, and
asked that the Golden Rain Board be requested to allow
distribution of campaign materials. Councilmember Hastings
asked if the restriction of distributing election literature
by Leisure World property owners would be a denial of
constitutional rights. The Assistant City Attorney
explained that based upon review of past cases it would be
necessary to research the By-Laws and practices of Leisure
World, and possibly the provisions of the CC&R's, to I
determine if there is any violation of constitutional
rights, noting that the By-Laws and the CC&R's should be
consistent, however CC&R's do not conflict with the
constitution, and the constitution controls. He offered to
do such research if that were the desire of the Council.
Mayor Wilson stated that each resident signs an occupancy
agreement upon moving to Leisure World, that they are a
shareholder in the Mutual corporation rather than a property
owner, and abide by the by-laws of the Golden Rain
Foundation and the Mutual. Councilman Hunt noted there are
a number of private, gated areas within the City, preferred
by many people for security reasons, and that past research
has determined the privacy of those areas to be
constitutional. Ms. Betty Cheevers said she had a letter
from Mr. Narang, Administrator, published in the Leisure
World News, allowing the distribution of literature. Mr.
Galen Ambrose, Seal Beach, stated even though certain
apartment complexes provide a security situation that is a
minor percentage of the population as compared to Leisure
World, claimed that there are many Leisure World residents
that do not receive all available information, that the cost
to mail is prohibitive for most persons unless it is paid by
a large corporation such as Mola, and that only a few
persons are reached in cases where one is invited to address I
a group. Discussion continued. Mr. Gordon Shanks, 215 Surf
Place, compared the expenditure by the Mola Corporation to
that of the proponents of the recent Traffic Initiative,
noting that campaign literature opposing that Initiative was
mailed to Leisure World residents, which can only be done
with adequate funds, and the Initiative was defeated. Mr.
Mario Voce, 730 Catalina Avenue, agreed with Mr. Shanks,
charged that the residents of Leisure World are used for
political purposes, and suggested that the Leisure World
representatives should strive to enfranchise voter rights.
Ms. Jane McClOUd, 700 Balboa Drive, spoke regarding the
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influence of members of the Councilor Golden Rain Board on
Leisure World voters and referred to a Traffic Initiative
flier that printed a letter from the then Mayor encouraging
a vote against Measure F, the flier funded by the developer,
which she deemed to be unfair, and suggested the
availability of reaching the Leisure World voters fairly
needs to be looked into. Mr. Ambrose suggested a limitation
of the amount of money that can be spent on election
campaigns for measures be placed on the next agenda,
possibly one or two thousand dollars. There was no
objection to the request of Councilman Laszlo that the
Assistant City Attorney research the possibility of limiting
election campaign expenditures.
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to declare a recess at 10:39 p.m. The Council reconvened at
10:55 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the meeting to order.
I
Mr. Bruce Stark, Seal Beach, said he found the Leisure World
By-Law discussion of interest, claimed there was a meeting
scheduled recently to discuss the Mola development however
an urgency meeting of the Golden Rain Board was called for
the same time which preempted the Mutual Presidents from the
program, that distribution of election literature is
prohibited and candidates are not allowed to campaign, yet
the Leisure World representatives have the opportunity to
appear at the various groups to express their views, also
that Mutual Presidents are fearful of the consequences of
inviting certain persons to speak. He charged that the
residents are renters therefore should be paying renters tax
as do other landlords, and with regard to a past Council
comment regarding Quimby Act funds, stated if Leisure World
was not required to pay those funds it would either be
because the City did not require such payment at that time
or Leisure World is not within the city, therefor should not
be entitled to vote. Mr. Stark said he recalled a candidate
being questioned during the recent election with regard to
his membership in an organization that had a legal action
against the City, and if elected how he could participate in
Closed Sessions discussions relating to such litigation, to
which the reply was that he would remove himself from
participation. Mr. Stark suggested that the Leisure World
representatives should likewise remove themselves from
Closed Session discussions involving the Mola Corporation,
as he felt the strategy of the city in defending the their
lawsuit is being carried back to Mola. Mayor Wilson and
Councilman Hunt expressed strong objection to the
allegations of Mr. Stark. Mr. John Nakagawa, 320 - 12th
Street, said it is within his rights to develop a flier and
deliver it door-to-door and to convey his opinion, which can
be done at minimal cost, objected to the prohibition of
distribution of campaign materials in Leisure World, offered
that if Leisure World is allowed to vote on policies that
affect him personally, he should be allowed voice his
opinions to those residents. Mr. Nakagawa requested a
constitutional review of the Leisure World By-Laws.
Councilman Laszlo stated it was not his intent to request a
constitutional check on the Leisure World vote at this time.
I
ITEM "II" - CITY MANAGER RECRUITMENT
It was the consensus of the Council to hold this item over
to be considered at an adjourned meeting on Monday, November
19th at 7:00 p.m.
ITEM "JJ" - ARCHAEOLOGICAL STUDY
Councilmember Hastings moved to accept the proposal of Dr.
stickle and authorize the preparation of the Baseline
11-13-90
Archaeological study at a cost not to exceed $500. Mayor
Wilson objected to expenditure of City funds for this study,
suggesting that it is customary for a developer to bear such
costs. Councilman Hunt agreed, noting also that the
Archaeological Committee has not requested the study be
done. Councilmember Hastings offered that the proposal for
this study was discussed previously, prior to formation of I
the Committee, and requested a vote on the motion. A member
of the Archaeological Committee, Ms. Linda stobbe,
questioned authorizing the study and expenditure of funds
until such time as an work outline of the proposal is
submitted for consideration, and that it was her
understanding the Committee was to make the decision as to
whether an outside consultant was necessary. She stated her
understanding was that the Committee was to consider all
properties in City, not just the Hellman site, and to assist
in the preparation of an Archaeological Element to the
General Plan. Councilmember Forsythe explained that
accepting the proposal of Dr. stickle or having the City
Attorney conduct the document research was a determination
left to the Council, that the documents would be provided to
the Committee for their information, and that a cost of $500
would seem reasonable if the Committee is going to consider
all of the vacant parcels. Councilman Laszlo seconded the
motion.
Ms. Vera Rocha said in response to comments made at a
previous meeting she remains the Chairperson of the
Gabrielino Indians and had letters to prove her status. She
spoke in opposition to accepting the proposal of Dr.
Stickle. Discussion continued. Mr. Tim Roberts, Mola
Development, questioned the necessity to take action on this I
item at this meeting, said he felt some members of the
Council understood the study to be site specific, and noted
that Mrs. Rocha has been assigned as the logical descendant
to the Hellman Ranch property.
Vote on the motion:
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Laszlo
Hunt, Wilson Motion carried
ITEM "KK" - ORDINANCE NUMBER 1318 - APPEALS TO CITY
COUNCIL -URGENCY
The Director of Development Services reported this item was
generated as a result of a Planning Commission discussion on
November 7th regarding the current lack of a specific appeal
process for minor plan reviews, the proposed Ordinance
providing that a determination of the Planning Commission 'or
Planning Department may be appealed to the city Council.
The Director stated from his experience it is customary in
most cities to provide an appeal process to the final
legislative body for any action.
Forsythe moved, second by Hastings, to direct the Planning
Commission to take action on the pending applications for
expansion of the existing structures located at 15
Cottonwood Lane, 601 Ocean Avenue, and 123 Eighth Street.
I
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, LaSZlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
Ordinance Number 1318 was presented to Council entitled "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
PROVIDING FOR APPEALS TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM CERTAIN
DECISIONS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND THE DIRECTOR OF
REDEVELOPMENT SERVICES AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF."
11-13-90
I
By unanimous consent, full reading of Ordinance Number 1318
was waived. The Assistant city Attorney suggested amendment
of Section 2 to read in part "Decisions by the Planning
Commission concerning minor plan reviews pursuant to Section
28-2407.A.2 and any determinations by the Director of
Development Services as to which there is no existing appeal
procedure in the COde, shall be appealable if within ten
(10) days of the date of the decision an appeal in writing
is filed with the city Council by either an applicant or an
interested party," also that Section 4 be amended to provide
that the city Clerk schedule a public hearing on this matter
within a period of forty-five days. Hastings moved, second
by Forsythe, to adopt Ordinance Number 1318 as amended.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1319 - PROHIBITING ISSUANCE OF PERMITS -
EXPANSION - NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES - URGENCY
Ordinance Number 1319 was presented to Council entitled "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH PROHIBITING THE ISSUANCE
OF ANY PERMITS ALLOWING THE EXPANSION OF EXISTING
NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 28-2407.A.2(i) OR SECTION 28-2407.a.2(j) AND
DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF." By unanimous consent, full
reading of Ordinance Number 1319 was waived. The Assistant
City Attorney explained that the proposed ordinance would
prohibit the issuance of any building permits for minor plan
review until such time as permanent regulations are in
effect. He suggested that in view of the Council action
directing the Planning Commission to act on the three
pending applications, that a new Section 5 be added to read
"Notwithstanding Section 2 herein, the provisions of this
ordinance shall not apply to applications for Minor Plan
Review previously approved by the Planning Commission and to
the pending applications for the expansion of the existing
structures located at 15 Cottonwood Lane, 601 Ocean Avenue,
and 123 Eighth Street." The Development Services Director
clarified that concern had been expressed at the Planning
Commission meeting regarding minor plan reviews, that the
urgency ordinance reflects their position and is proposed to
preclude submittal of plans under existing Code provisions
pending adoption of new regulations. with regard to those
pending applications he noted the Commission had been
advised to consider those items pursuant to the Code as it
presently exists unless there was a public health, safety or
welfare issue that would override the Code, however the
Commission felt the type of expansions to nonconforming
structures that are presently allowed are not in keeping
with the general development scheme for the entire downtown
area, and that such expansions allowed under a minor plan
review process should be subject to a greater public review
process, possibly by conditional use permit. The Director
reported there have been a number of changes over the years
with regard to legal nonconforming residences, the most
recent change made in 1985 at which time the minor plan
review process was created and until that time there was no
such process in the City, prior to that change either no
expansions were allowed or allowed through a CUP process, at
one point for only limited types of improvements. He said
he felt the major concern of the Commission with at least
two of the pending applications was that they are multi-unit
apartment complexes with expansions of eight hundred to one
thousand square feet of living space proposed, and by such
expansion there is a possibility of increasing the number of
persons residing in those units that would in turn increase
parking needs. Members of the Council indicated their
1
11-13-90
understanding that the Commission concerns were directed to
parking and density in the downtown area, and it was
suggested that advertised pUblic hearings be held by the
Planning Commission to seek the opinions of the residents of
the community regarding expansions to nonconforming
structures. Forsythe moved, second by Hastings, to adopt
urgency Ordinance Number 1319 as amended to incorporate I
Section 5 as recommended by the Assistant city Attorney,
that existing Section 5 and 6 be renumbered as Sections 6
and 7, and that the City Clerk provide notice of the public
hearing on this matter as set forth in Section 6.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
Wilson moved, second by Hastings, to extend the adjournment
of the meeting until 1:00 a.m.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, LaSZlo, wilson
Hunt Motion carried
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - FIRE PREVENTION FEES
The Acting city Manager noted the public hearing to consider
proposed Orange County Fire Department fire prevention fees
had been continued from the September 10th meeting until
this date, and that Orange County Fire is considering
additional modifications to the costs for general fire
services and paramedic fees, therefore staff would recommend
that this item be postponed until such time as the costs for
all fire services can be analyzed. Hunt moved, second by
Laszlo, to conclude the public hearing, that the item be
postponed indefinitely, to be renoticed for future
consideration.
I
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 3-90 - VIDEO ARCADES/
AMUSEMENT DEVICES
Councilmember Hastings requested that this item be postponed
and that an expanded notice of public hearing be provided.
Councilmember Forsythe reported there was considerable
public input on this subject at the Planning commission
level, explained that research was done in drafting the
Ordinance, that there is provision that two machines or less
within certain establishments in commercial zones would
require review by the Planning Commission and more than two
machines would require a conditional use permit under public
hearing and noticed to property owners within three hundred
feet. Forsythe moved, second by Laszlo, to declare the
public hearing open, that the hearing be continued until the
second meeting in January and that there be an expanded
notice of hearing.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 5-90 - NONCONFORMING
RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES - DENSITY/TANDEM PARKING
The Director of Development Services reported the Zoning
Text Amendment would allow the owners of nonconforming
residential properties which are nonconforming solely due to
density and tandem parking and desiring to expand their
property by more than ten percent to seek approval from the
Planning Commission under the conditional use permit
process. He explained that currently if the property is
over density, application can be made for less than ten
11-13-90
I
percent under minor plan review or for more than ten percent
under the conditional use permit process if parking
requirements are not met, and for those properties that meet
parking requirements through tandem parking there is
currently no provision to allow expansion of those
structures more than ten percent, therefore the Planning
Commission has recommended that in those cases expansion be
considered under the conditional use permit process. He
noted the change would affect approximately six to eight
properties, generally with two units, that were developed
during the short period of time that the City allowed tandem
parking.
Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing open to consider
Zoning Text Amendment 5-90 regarding additions to
nonconforming residential structures which are nonconforming
solely due to density and tandem parking. The Mayor invited
members of the audience wishing to speak to this item to
come to the microphone and state their name and address for
the record. Ms. Marla wicorek, 208 - 4th street, spoke in
favor of the Zoning Text Amendment, stated her plan would
not increase density, that the existing three bedrooms would
be relocated, one converted to a family room, the duplex
having four existing tandem parking spaces accessible from
the alley. Mr. James Funk, 215-1/2 - 10th street, offered
that his residential property is similar to the previous
speaker, however an expansion of up to two thousand square
feet would be allowed for his property where no expansion
would be allowed on the 4th street property, and stated the
proposed ZTA would resolve existing inequities. The
Development Services Director explained the ZTA would apply
to expansions greater than ten percent of the allowable
floor area through a conditional use permit. There being no
further comments, Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing
closed.
I
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1315 - ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 5-90 -
NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES - EXPANSION - DENSITY/
TANDEM PARKING
Ordinance Number 1315 was presented to Council for first
reading entitled "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 28 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH RELATING TO NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES
WHICH ARE NONCONFORMING SOLELY DUE TO DENSITY AND TANDEM
PARKING (ZTA 5-90)." By unanimous consent, full reading of
Ordinance Number 1315 was waived. Forsythe moved, second by
Hunt, to approve the introduction of Ordinance Number 1315
and that it be passed to second reading.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
APPEAL - VARIANCE 5-90 - REAR/SIDE YARD SETBACKS - PATIO DECK -
1733 CRESTVIEW AVENUE
Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to continue the appeal to
denial of Variance 5-90 relating to the rear and sideyard
setbacks for a patio deck located at 1733 Crestview Avenue
until the November 26, 1990 meeting, as requested by staff.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3985 - REVERSING PLANNING COMMISSION
DECISION - VARIANCE 8-89 - 101 MAIN STREET - WATSON
The Director of Development Services recommended that the
title of the Resolution be amended to read "Reversing the
Decision of the Planning Commission" rather than "Reversing
11-13-90
the Recommendation" and read Resolution Number 3985 in full
entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH REVERSING THE DECISION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
AND DENYING A REQUEST FOR A PARKING VARIANCE FOR PROPERTY
LOCATED AT 101 MAIN STREET." Councilman Hunt said his
previously stated position on this item is unchanged, this
property being one of few on Main Street where the property 'I
owner does provide adequate parking and that the requested
storage area would not increase the parking demand, which he
said is a unique situation and rather than a special
privilege is a denial of privilege.
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to adopt Resolution Number
3985, denying the Variance. Councilmember Forsythe noted her
abstention from voting on this item since she had
participated in the Planning Commission consideration, and
Mayor Wilson said she had been absent during the public
hearing therefore would also abstain. Councilmember Hastings
recalled there had been concern expressed before the Planning
Commission that the proposed storage area could be converted
to a different use at some point in the future that could
require more parking.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
Hastings, Laszlo
Hunt
Forsythe, Wilson
Motion carried
Staff advised that proposed Code amendments concerning
parking requirements for storage areas would be prepared for
consideration by the Planning Commission and city Council as
previously requested by Council, also that the applicant in
this case could reapply for the storage facility at such time I
as regulations are adopted.
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS "0" thru "CC"
The Acting city Manager requested Item "V" be removed from
the Consent Calendar, and Mayor Wilson requested Items "Y, Z,
and AA be removed. Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to approve
the recommended action for items on the Consent Calendar,
except Items "V, Y, Z, and AA", as presented.
Q. Approved regular demands numbered 81435
through 81644 in the amount of $652,587.34
and payroll demands numbered 42756 through
42969 in the amount of $229,779.83 as
approved by the Finance Committee, and
authorized warrants to be drawn on the
Treasury for same.
R. Denied the claim for damages of Mr. John
Spencer, and referred same to the city's
liability attorney and insurance adjuster.
S.
Denied the claim of Puente Hills Nissan
(Ward), and referred same to the city's
liability attorney and insurance adjuster.
I,
T.
Approved the specifications for asbestos
abatement at the Marina and North Seal
Beach Community Centers, Projects 620 and
621, authorized the City Manager to
advertise for bids, and appropriated
$30,000.00 from the General Fund Reserves
to these projects.
11-13-90
u. Bids were received for Project Number 612,
Sidewalk Repair, until 11:00 a.m., November
1, 1990 at which time they were publicly
opened by the city Clerk as follows:
I
JDC Engineering
B-1 Enterprise Corp.
IPS Services, Inc.
J & Z Kovac
Ruiz Engineering
F.A.V. Engineering
Pinco Construction Co.
Nobest, Inc.
$31,054.14
34,242.87
35,432.52
37,365.00
39,777.00
40,077.75
43,891.9Q
63,029.30
I
Awarded the bid for Sidewalk Repair, Project
Number 612, to JDC Engineering in the amount
of $31,054.14 and authorized the Acting City
Manager to execute the contract on behalf of
the City.
W. Approved the Agreement between Midway City
Sanitary District and the city of Seal
Beach to provide sewer services for the
Navy Missile Assembly and Test Facility
and authorized the Mayor to execute the
Agreement on behalf of the city.
Approved extension of the Agreement
between the City of Seal Beach and Union
oil Company of California (UNOCAL) for
pier landing privileges at a rate of
$120.00 per day, and other services,
for the period commending December 6,
1990 and ending midnight, December 5,
1991.
x.
BB. Approved the minutes of the regular
adjourned meeting of September 10, 1990
CC. Approved the minutes of the regular
meeting of September 10, 1990.
-AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None Motion carried
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
ITEMS "Y" and "z" - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Hunt moved, second by Hastings, to approve the minutes of the
regular adjourned meeting of August 13, 1990 and the regular
meeting of August 13, 1990.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo
None
Wilson Motion carried
I
ITEM "AA" - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Hunt moved, second by Forsythe, to approve the minutes of the
regular meeting of August 27, 1990.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
Forsythe, Hunt, Laszlo
None
Hastings, Wilson
Motion carried
ITEM "V" - AWARD OF BID - HANDICAPPED RESTROOMS - NORTH SEAL
BEACH COMMUNITY CENTER - PROJECT NUMBER 619
The Acting City Manager requested that this item be removed
11-13-90
from consideration for the reason that the state will not be
awarding the necessary grant monies until July, 1991. Item
"V" was removed from consideration by consensus of the
Council.
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3991 - REAFFIRMING SPECIFIC PLAN -
DEPARTMENT OF WATER' AND POWER PROPERTY I
Resolution Number 3991 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE SEAL BEACH CITY COUNCIL REAFFIRMING THE
ADOPTED SPECIFIC PLAN FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER
PROPERTY." By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution
Number 3991 was waived. Mayor Wilson expressed support for
the existing Specific Plan for the DWP site, thirty percent
designated for hotel and seventy percent open space/park, and
stated it should be necessary to prove that the existing
Specific Plan is not feasible before any change is considered
to that use. Councilmember Forsythe reported a conversation
with Mr. McGillis of the Department of Water and Power, that
it appears they are interested in developing the property
however want to retain the ground lease which may not be
advantageous to a developer, and requested a brief update of
the status of the site. The Development Services Director
stated upon joining the City one of his first tasks was to
prepare a request for development proposals for the DWP
property in conformance with existing provisions of the
Specific Plan, that negotiations have continued with the
Department of Water and Power to develop a document that
would be satisfactory to both parties since the DWP intends
to retain ownership of the property and will be involved in
negotiation of the long term ground lease, and at this point
it appears agreement as to form and terms of the request for
proposals may be reached within sixty to ninety days. He I
advised that the Department of Water and Power has expressed
concern that the provisions of the Specific Plan may not
reflect the current economy of the Southern California region
should a viable development proposal may ultimately be
submitted to the city. The Director added the DWP was
provided the information that had been presented to the
Council by Mr. Dawson relating to the current Specific Plan
and market economy, the DWP Advisory Committee also provided
that information at their recent meeting, as well as a status
report on the property, and that the Committee took an action
to be presented to the Council by the Chairman. Councilman
Laszlo reviewed the background leading to the development of
the DWP Specific Plan, which involved citizens from the
various areas of the city as well as the Coastal Conservancy
over a lengthy period of time. He made reference to Mr.
Dawson recently proposing his plan for the DWP site, and to
that he read a 1977 news article with regard to past
involvements of Mr. Dawson. Councilman Laszlo spoke in
support of the existing Plan, developed by the citizens, as
opposed to giving any consideration to the convalescent
hospital proposal of Mr. Dawson. Mr. Gordon Shanks, 215 Surf
Place, Chairman of the DWP Advisory Committee, reported by
unanimous vote of those present, the Committee requested the
city Council to reaffirm the existing Specific Plan for the I
DWP site. He pointed out that after many years it appears
the DWP is moving forward and the RFP may be ready to
distribute within six months. Mr. Shanks offered that it
could be conceivable that the projections of Mr. Dawson may
be true, there may be no one willing to build the hotel, and
in that case Mr. Dawson's proposal could be considered with
any others, however until that time the Committee supports
the Specific Plan as it presently exists. The Development
Services Director reported between one hundred fifty to two
hundred individuals and firms have indicated interest to
either the DWP or the City in the Request for Proposals once
~ *~. t"
11-13-90
I
they are available, noting that upon discussion with any of
the interested parties the basic criteria for the project
has been explained, that the arrangement would be a
leasehold interest with the Department of Water and Power
for development of the hotel site and the City would be
involved with the leasehold regarding the park facilities.
Councilman Hunt suggested that no action be taken on this
item at this meeting, that it may be worthwhile for the
Council to discuss the matter with the DWP, and in his
conversation with Mr. McGillis it was indicated that
although there has been interest in the property, there has
not been particular interest in the Specific Plan criteria,
that there was also concern as to the economic viability of
the existing Specific Plan. Councilman Laszlo said at one
time the DWP site was appraised at $3 million, which has
since increased, and suggested that possibly the hotel
development firm could acquire the property through eminent
domain. Mr. Shanks responded that the prior City Manager
researched that possibility, this property having been once
listed as high priority public use by the Coastal
Commission, then removed from the surplus property list by
the DWP which is believed to be an action to prevent
condemnation of the site by the Redevelopment Agency,
therefore such action is unlikely to be feasible. The
Assistant City Attorney explained that condemnation of land
owned by another public entity is difficult because it must
be established that the property is for a greater public
use. Discussion continued.
I
with regard to whether an application, such as that proposed
by Mr. Dawson, that is not in compliance with the Specific
Plan would require an action of the City, the Assistant City
Attorney stated that given the fact that Mr. Dawson has no
equity interest in the DWP property, it would be unlikely he
could submit an application for development pursuant to the
provisions of the Code dealing with Specific Plans.
Councilmember Forsythe noted that Mr. McGillis had advised
that the DWP could not deal directly with a private entity,
that the City would need to act as an intermediary. She
indicated her support for the existing Specific Plan,
questioned whether or not the Resolution proposed was
necessary as she did not feel Mr. Dawson could pursue his
proposal, yet if the current Plan is determined to be
infeasible it could be reevaluated at a later date.
Councilmember Forsythe asked to be kept informed of further
communications with the Department of Water and Power.
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to adopt Resolution Number
3991 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Forsythe, Hastings, Laszlo
Hunt, Wilson
Motion carried
I
It was the consensus of the Council to continue the
remaining agenda items, Resolution Number 3992, closure of
Pacific Coast Highway turnpockets, Ordinance Number 1316,
Vesting Tentative Maps, Resolution Number 3993, Congestion
Management Program, Ordinance Number 1317, display of
harmful matter, Resolution Number 3994, CEQA Guidelines,
Resolution Number 3995, legislation on regional governance,
and appointments to boards and commissions, until the
regular meeting of November 26th.
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
There were no Council items discussed.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
There were no Oral Communications.
11-13-90/11-19-90
CLOSED SESSION
No Closed Session was held.
ADJOURNMENT
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to adjourn the meeting until November 19th at 7:00 p.m. to
consider recruitment of a city Manager. The meeting was
adjourned at 1:12 a.m.
c_
I
C~ Clerk and ex-off
C y of Seal Beach
Approved:
~ --t. ~~~
Mayor
Attest:
Seal Beach, California
November 19, 1990
The City Council of the city of Seal Beach met in regular
adjourned session at 7:00 p.m. with Mayor ProTem Laszlo
calling the meeting to order with the Salute to the Flag.
I
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor ProTem Laszlo
Councilmembers Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt
Mayor Wilson
Absent:
Also present: Mr. Archibold, Acting City Manager
Mr. Barrow, Assistant city Attorney
Mrs. Yeo, City Clerk
Hunt moved, second by Forsythe, to excuse the absence of
Mayor Wilson from this meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo
None
Wilson Motion carried
It was the consensus of the Council to move the Closed
Session forward on the agenda.
CLOSED SESSION
The Assistant City Attorney announced the Council would meet
in Closed Session to discuss personnel matters pursuant to
provisions of the Government Code. By unanimous consent,
the Council adjourned to Closed Session at 7:01 p.m. and
reconvened at 7:17 p.m. with Mayor ProTem Laszlo calling the
meeting to order. The Assistant City Attorney reported the
Council had met in Closed Session to discuss a personnel
matter and pending litigation in the case of Mola
Development versus City of Seal Beach, and that no action
had been taken.
I