HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Min 1990-11-26
11-19-90/11-26-90
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Forsythe, Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo
None
Wilson Motion carried
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C1~y 91erk an ex-of
C~of Seal Beach
Attest:
Approved:
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Seal Beach, California
November 26, 1990
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
session at 7:10 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the meeting
to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Wilson
Councilmembers Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo
Absent:
Councilmember Forsythe
Wilson moved, second by Laszlo, to excuse the absence of
Councilmember Forsythe from this meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
Also present: Mr. Archibold, Acting city Manager
Mr. stepanicich, City Attorney
Mr. Whittenberg, Director of Development
Services
Mrs. Yeo, city Clerk
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WAIVER OF FULL READING
Hastings moved, second by Laszlo, 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 reading of the title unless specific
request is made at that time for the reading of such
ordinance or resolution.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
AGENDA AMENDED
Hastings moved, second by Laszlo, to consider item "V", city
Manager recruitment, at this time.
11-26-90
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
CITY MANAGER RECRUITMENT
Dr. Daniel Barber, California State University, Long Beach,
Graduate Center for Public policy and Administration, I
reported involvement with a number of local agencies
throughout the basin, State and Federal governments in the
areas of service and research, and made reference to the
proposal dated November 23, 1990 for services in connection
with the recruitment of a City Manager for Seal Beach. With
regard to a question as to specific City Manager, Assistant
City Manager, or highly qualified staff positions to which
the Cal State service has provided applicants, Dr. Barber
stated he could not point to any specifically, that their
service works regularly on developing job descriptions,
assessment centers, promotional exams, etc., and there has
been considerable interaction with managers and persons
moving towards that employment level. He stated the task,
as set forth by the proposal, generally deals with detail
work within the legal guidelines to track, reference check
and process the applications, also to determine the Council
criteria for the position. Councilman Hunt said he felt
locating candidates for the position would be the most
difficult task, and in comparison to the responsibilities of
a management recruiting firm, he did not find that step of
the process contained within the CSULB proposal. Dr. Barber
responded that proposals of personnel recruiting firms are
quite similar, the question in this case being to what
extent and by what means the city wishes to seek candidates
that do not apply. He explained that he did not have a bank I
of individuals that have expressed interest in such
positions, yet the exposure through Western City magazine,
ICMA and other publications, and any other means the Council
desires, would let it be known that the position is
available and would attract viable candidates. Dr. Barber
clarified that he would be personally conducting the tasks
set forth in the proposal, that he does have the services of
a graduate assistant available, and pointed out that in
addition to the upcoming semester break, University staff is
authorized to work in this type of capacity up to ten hours
per week. He confirmed his fee for the services outlined is
three thousand dollars with the exception of advertising,
out-of-town travel, candidate travel, etc., which would most
likely be within the range of one thousand dollars or less.
Councilman Laszlo spoke for moving forward with the city
Manager recruitment process without delay, and moved to
accept the proposal made by Dr. Barber. Councilmember
Hastings seconded the motion. Councilman Hunt requested
that this item be held over until the full Council is
present, and again expressed concern that the method of
locating candidates for the position was not addressed in
the proposal. Discussion followed. Councilmember Hastings
suggested that the proposal be revised to include the I'
candidate solicitation process. The motion and second were
withdrawn. Staff requested Council confirmation of placing
an ad for the City Manager position in the January issue of
Western City, noted that the ad has been drafted, asked for
direction as to whether a salary range or salary to be
determined based upon qualifications should be used, and a
desired closing date.
Laszlo moved, second by Hunt, to authorize the expenditure
of funds to place the ad for the City Manager position in
the January issue of Western city.
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11-26-90
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT :
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
PUBLIC HEARING - APPEAL - VARIANCE 5-90 - PATIO DECK -
1733 CRESTVIEW AVENUE - RALSTON
Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing open to consider an
appeal of Planning Commission denial of Variance 5-90. The
City Clerk certified that notice of the public hearing had
been advertised and mailed as required by law, and reported
no communications received either for or against this item.
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to continue the public
hearing until the December 10th regular meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1315 - ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 5-90 -
NONCONFORMING RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES - DUE TO DENSITY/TANDEM
PARKING
Ordinance Number 1315 was presented to Council for second
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. The City Attorney
recommended the second sentence of Section 2 be amended to
include language to read "The following expansions and
enlargements may be approved provided the parcel is
nonconforming..." Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to adopt
Ordinance Number 1315 as amended.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3992 - MAIN STREET/PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY -
CLOSURE OF NORTH/SOUTH TURNPOCKETS
Resolution Number 3992 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
APPROVING THE CLOSURE OF THE NORTH AND SOUTH BOUND
TURNPOCKETS LOCATED AT THE MAIN STREET/PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
INTERSECTION." By unanimous consent, full reading of
Resolution Number 3992 was waived. Laszlo moved, second by
Hastings, to adopt Resolution Number 3992 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1316 - VESTING TENTATIVE MAPS
Ordinance Number 1316 was presented to Council for first
reading entitled "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 21 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
SEAL BEACH RELATING TO VESTING TENTATIVE MAPS." By
unanimous consent, full reading of Ordinance Number 1316 was
waived. The Director of Development Services reported
current Code limits the application for a vesting tentative
map to residential property only, does not allow such
application for commercial or industrial subdivision of
property, and that the proposed Ordinance would allow any
subdivision to apply for a vesting tentative map. The City
Attorney pointed out that State law now requires that local
regulations provide for a vesting tentative map for
commercial as well as residential development. He noted
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current Code also provides that before a vesting tentative
map can be obtained all of the discretionary approvals must
be approved either prior to or concurrently, which is an
additional local regulation that is believed to be permitted
by state law, therefore it is felt important that the city's
regulations be consistent with state law. Mr. Stepanicich
explained the ordinance would not change local regulations I
in terms of zoning or subdivision requirements, however it
would change the manner in which maps are processed
procedurally, noting that a number of years ago the
legislature adopted provisions that gives a developer a
right to proceed upon an approved tentative map once the
final map has been filed, that provision recently amended to
include commercial and industrial development. In response
to a question of Council with regard to the possibility of a
developer demanding a vesting map should the proposed
Ordinance not be adopted, the city Attorney said there could
be a question as to whether the local requirement to have
all discretionary approvals prior to approval of a vesting
map could be enforced. He noted the intent of the local
requirement was to insure that a developer would submit all
discretionary approvals at one time to avoid the possibility
of approving a vesting map without specific knowledge of the
entire development. The City Attorney noted it would be in
the best interest of the City to have a vesting tentative
map ordinance that is in compliance with state law, and
there would be concern should a developer make application
for a vesting tentative map and argue that he was entitled
to such vesting map for a commercial development where the
current local ordinance only applies to residential
development. Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to approve the
introduction of Ordinance Number 1316 and that it be passed I
to second reading.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Wilson
Laszlo
Forsythe
Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3993 - DESIGNATING CONGESTION MANAGEMENT
PROGRAM AGENCY - ORANGE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY
Resolution Number 3993 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING A CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
AGENCY." By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution
Number 3993 was waived. Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to
adopt Resolution Number 3993 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1317 - DISPLAY OF MATTER HARMFUL TO MINORS
Ordinance Number 1317 was presented to Council entitled "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
ADDING CHAPTER 11D TO THE SEAL BEACH MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING
TO THE DISPLAY OF MATTER HARMFUL TO MINORS." By unanimous I
consent, full reading of Ordinance Number 1317 was waived.
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to approve the
introduction of Ordinance Number 1317 and that it be passed
to second reading.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, LaSZlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3994 - CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL OUALITY
ACT GUIDELINES
Resolution Number 3994 was presented to Council entitled "A
11-26-90
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RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING PROCEDURES IMPLEMENTING THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT AND THE GUIDELINES OF THE
SECRETARY FOR THE RESOURCES AGENCY, AS AMENDED, AND
REPEALING RESOLUTION NUMBERS 3577 AND 3133." By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3994 was waived.
The Director of Development Services presented the staff
report, noted review and recommendation from the city
Attorney's office, the Development Services Department, the
Environmental Quality Control Board, and the Planning
Commission for approval of the updated CEQA guidelines for
the preparation of environmental impact reports, negative
declarations, and the process for determinations for
projects to be exempt from those requirement. He explained
there to be fifteen areas of modification to current City
guidelines, last updated in 1984, and that the remainder of
the current guidelines are unchanged. The Director reviewed
the proposed changes as set forth in the August 21, 1990
staff report to the Environmental Quality Control Board, in
brief, the changes extending the public review period for
negative declarations from ten to twenty-one days, a review
period for notices of exemption from the requirement to
prepare a negative declaration or environmental impact
report that would require challenges to be made in a shorter
period of time thus allowing small projects to proceed
without undue delay, agencies, such as the local
transportation planning organization and school districts,
added to the negative declaration review by other public
agencies process in certain instances, review of a
mitigation monitoring program by certain agencies, and
recommended provision that all EIR consultants be selected
by the City rather than a developer or an independent City
review of a draft EIR, the cost of which would be borne by
the developer. The Director noted the proposed changes
would bring the City into compliance with State Codes and
recent court decisions.
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Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number
3994. Staff explained in detail the various proposed
modifications to the current guidelines in response to
questions of the Council. Councilman Laszlo indicated he
intent to vote against the motion since the public was not
being invited to speak to this item.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hunt, Wilson
Hastings, Laszlo
Forsythe
Motion failed
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
8:56 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the meeting to order.
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RESOLUTION NUMBER 3995 - REGIONAL GOVERNANCE LEGISLATION
Resolution Number 3995 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, OPPOSING CERTAIN LEGISLATION ON REGIONAL
GOVERNANCE." By unanimous consent, full reading of
Resolution Number 3995 was waived. Hastings moved, second
by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number 3995. Councilman Hunt
indicated his opposition to the Resolution, suggesting that
if any position is to be taken it should be done through the
League of Cities, and to some extent there is a need for
some regional control, citing as an example the traffic
impact on Seal Beach as a result of what occurs in
surrounding cities. Councilmember Hastings expressed
support for the Resolution and the right of the city to
determine its affairs without outside interference. Staff
11-26-90
reported the League has not taken a position on this matter
to date. Discussion continued.
Councilman Laszlo requested a resolution be prepared,
similar to that of the city of Garden Grove, in support of
repeal of SB 2557.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Laszlo, Wilson
Hunt
Forsythe
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Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3996 - COMPENSATION PLAN - ACTING CITY
MANAGER
Resolution Number 3996 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, A CHARTERED CITY, ESTABLISHING A COMPENSATION
PLAN, INCLUDING SALARY AND BENEFITS FOR ROBERT F. ARCHIBOLD
AS ACTING CITY MANAGER." By unanimous consent, full reading
of Resolution Number 3996 was waived. The Acting city
Manager noted the Council had been provided with two
resolutions setting forth the salary and benefits for the
Acting City Manager as well as the position to which the
Acting City Manager would return to at such time as a city
Manager is selected, Assistant to the City Manager or
Assistant City Manager. Members of the Council indicated
their preference that the position be designated as
Assistant City Manager, however it was suggested that
possibly that decision should be delayed until the City
Manager position is filled. Discussion followed.
Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number
3996 to reflect the position classification of Assistant
City Manager. It was clarified that the salary range for
the Assistant position would be considered at a later date.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3997 - ACCEPTANCE - ELECTRIC AVENUE
GREENBELT
Resolution Number 3997 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
AUTHORIZING THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY CONVEYED BY
THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH." By
unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3997
was waived. Staff clarified that the property is designated
as public land use specifically for public park purposes.
Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number
3997.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS "K" thru "P"
Mayor Wilson requested items "L" and "M" removed from the
Consent Calendar, noting her absence from those meetings,
and a member of the audience requested item "N" removed.
Hunt moved, second by Laszlo, to approve the recommended
action for items on the Consent Calendar, except Items "L,
M, and N", as presented.
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K. Approved regular demands numbered 81645
through 81830 in the amount of $470,047.51,
and payroll demands numbered 42970 through
43159 in the amount of $214,711.39 as
11-26-90
approved by the Finance Committee, and
authorized warrants to be drawn on the
Treasury for same.
O.
Approved the plans and specification for
Project Number 616, Lampson Avenue Irrigation
System, and authorized the Acting city
Manager to advertise for bids.
P. Bids were received until 11:00 a.m.,
October 22, 1990, for project Number 619,
North Seal Beach Community Center Handicap
Restrooms as follows:
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Enwell, Inc.
Glencraft Construction Co.
Adams/Mallory Construction Co.
P & M construction
Temperature Controlled
Environment, Inc.
Smedley Construction
Double J Contractors
Brugman Management &
Development Company
Fishbeck Construction Co.
century construction Co.
Projective Development Group
Dean Chilton construction
'$43,784.00
47,031.00
51,516.00
52,600.00
58,990.00
62,350.00
64,869.00
72,000.00
73,900.00
78,000.00
79,600.00
98,900.00
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Rejected all bids for Project Number 619 and
instructed staff to resubmit the plans and
specifications for city Council approval
for readvertisement for bids at such time
as the State grant funds in the amount of
$89,000 become available.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
ITEMS "L and M" - APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Laszlo moved, second by Hunt, to approve the minutes of the
September 24, 1990 regular meeting and the October 2, 1990
regular adjourned meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo
None
Wilson
Forsythe
Motion carried
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ITEM "N" - CLAIM FOR DAMAGES
Mr. Bruce Stark, Seal Beach, inquired as to nature of the
claim. Mayor Wilson responded that the claim was for
injuries allegedly sustained on June 2, 1990 involving the
tram on the municipal pier. Laszlo moved, second by Hunt,
to deny the claim of Irene Boehm and refer same to the
City'S liability attorney and insurance adjuster.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
BIXBY PUBLIC INPUT PROCESS
The Acting City Manager reported the City Council, in June,
1990, determined to postpone until at least October the
11-26-90
public information process relative to the Bixby Old Ranch
Specific Plan, and at this time staff is seeking direction
as to the desire of the Council to complete that process,
the options being to wait until Bixby submits a subdivision
application or continue the pUblic information meetings. In
response to council, the Director of Development Services
stated the Bixby Company has contacted the City on several I
occasions to inquire as to when the Council would consider
completion of the information process that was initiated in
February, also inquiring as to the process to submit an
application for development on their property that would not
involve a Specific Plan, thus the request for direction from
the council with regard to the public meetings. He
explained the information requested by Bixby has related to
current requirements for zone changes, subdivision
approvals, etc., and it appears their inquiries may relate
to the preliminary plans that were being developed in May
and June which included some homesites along portions of the
golf course. He recalled that the Housing Element indicated
that housing would not be considered within areas either
under the clear zone or accident potential zone from the Los
Alamitos Armed Forces Reserve Center which was based upon a
document that was then in circulation and since rescinded by
the Department of the Army, and it is understood that
document is being restudied to determine appropriate clear
zones and accident potential zones. In response to certain
remarks, the Development Services Director advised
Councilman Laszlo that he has had no meetings with the Bixby
Company other than attendance at the public information
meetings and EIR scoping session. It was also noted that it
is the understanding of staff that the Committee is nearing
completion of their Housing Element review, which will be I
forthcoming to the Council. Councilman Laszlo said the
AICUZ study is still in effect. Discussion followed.
Councilman Hunt offered that there is nothing that would
preclude the Bixby Company from SUbmitting a plan for their
property, however suggested the pUblic input sessions may
result in a more acceptable plan. Councilmember Hastings
moved to hold over discussion of this matter until after the
potential April election as requested by Councilman Laszlo.
Councilman Laszlo seconded the motion.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, LaSZlo, wilson
Hunt
Forsythe
Motion carried
GENERAL PLAN UPDATES
Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to postpone consideration of
General Plan updates until the next meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
PUBLIC COMMENT TIME LIMITATION
Hunt moved, second by Laszlo, to hold over consideration of 1-
this item until the next meeting.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, LaSZlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
HELLMAN RANCH SPECIFIC PLAN COMMITTEE - CONCEPT PLAN
Mr. David Hood, 3600 Wisteria street, Vice-Chairman of the
Hellman Ranch Specific Plan Committee, commenced his remarks
by stating the concerns of the Committee were to leave
wetlands and park lands to the children, the safety of
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potential homeowners living on uncertain soil adjacent to an
earthquake fault, and an appropriate use of the land that
would compliment the remainder of uses in the city. He
noted that although the representative of Mola Development
had advised he was representing the owner of the property
and that a partnership existed, yet failed to document those
statements, the majority of the Committee voted to reject
seating the representative of Mola Development as a member
of the Committee. He stated the Committee sought and
received input from all interested parties, and subsequently
the Committee, on a ten to one vote with three abstentions,
approved the following: "The Hellman Ranch Specific Plan
Advisory Committee recommends to the Seal Beach city Council
that the portion of the Bluffs above the ten-foot contour be
zoned for commercial development provided that there be
established a 50-foot landscape buffer running eastward from
Gum Grove Park (which should retain its present use) to Seal
Beach Blvd. as well as a 100-foot setback from the Newport-
Inglewood Fault where no development should be allowed. The
Hellman Ranch Specific Plan Advisory Committee further
recommends that the entire remainder of the Hellman Property
and the Los Alamitos Retarding Basin remain open space for
such uses as, but not limited to, a golf course, parks,
playing fields, tennis courts, wetlands, etc., and/or
existing uses (including oil extraction and flood control),
for the enjoyment of the citizens of Seal Beach and the
surrounding communities." Ms. Allene Harding, resident of
College Park West, stated a minority report, supported by
four members of the Committee, was to be presented by Ms.
Joyce Risner. Ms. Risner read the minority report which, in
brief, disagreed with the majority report having been made
without benefit of environmental, fiscal or legal impact
information, the economic viability of the proposed plan not
considered for the City, property owner and/or developer,
therefore the belief that the majority recommendations, if
approved, may constitute a taking of properties and result
in potential liability to the City and its citizens. In
response to Council, Mr. Hood said the Committee had been
informed it was not necessary to consider financial
constraints, that there was not time nor was there a desire
to do an economic study of commercial development on the
bluff, and that there had been general discussion of a
conservation easement which could be a tax advantage to the
land owner. Councilman Laszlo spoke in favor of placing an
alternative to the initiative plan on the ballot to allow
the voters a choice. Councilmember Hastings agreed. Mayor
Wilson spoke against placing other measures on the ballot.
Councilman Hunt expressed his feeling that it would be
unfair to the voters to place other conceptual plans on the
ballot without the appropriate analyses to show the
viability of the plan. In response to Councilman Hunt, the
city Attorney advised that upon placing an item on the
ballot, the city Attorney prepares an impartial analysis of
the effect of the legislation proposed, and in most all
cases, such as the proposal under consideration, it would be
recommended that an analysis be prepared as to what the
legal issues may be, particularly in this instance where
there is pending litigation involving the subject property.
He explained that if there were financial or economic issues
they would be identified, it would then be a decision of the
Council as to whether additional studies would be required.
'He also noted the issue of economic viable use of land is an
ill-defined concept under State and federal law. Mr.
Stepanicich stated their firm has seen a number of ballot
measures that have been questionable, yet the courts have
generally ruled that if a measure has been proposed by the
voters and contains the required number of signatures, the
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Council is required to place the matter on the ballot unless
it is considered patently illegal, the courts more often
becoming involved in the legality of a measure subsequent to
the vote. He noted it is within the discretion of the
Council to place any measure on the ballot, and should it be
considered patently illegal the Council would be so advised
by legal counsel, yet the Council would make the ultimate I
decision. Discussion followed. No formal action was taken.
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to declare a recess at 10:29 p.m. The Council reconvened
at 10:43 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling ~he meeting to
order.
REOUEST - FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS -
ROSSMOOR CENTER
The Acting city Manager presented the request from Mr.
Leonard Wilson, Marketing Director for the Rossmoor Shopping
Center, for $1,100 to cover the labor costs to place and
remove holiday decorations along Seal Beach Boulevard in the
vicinity of Rossmoor Center. Councilman Hunt recalled that
last year the purchase of new lights for the downtown area
was discussed, possibly allocation of a amount of money over
a period of a few years, and in that case the merchants were
to bear the cost of electricity, and in turn it was felt
that a contribution for holiday decorations on the public
land in the vicinity of Rossmoor Center would likewise be
made, the amount last year being $625. Members of the
Council expressed their views regarding the request, current
budget constraints, postponement until next year or
thereafter, and use of transient occupancy tax monies.
Council requested a report with regard to contributions in
1989 for holiday decorations on Main Street and the Rossmoor
Center, and suggested that action on this item be held over
until the next meeting.
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PROPOSED BALLOT MEASURES
The Acting City Manager reported various ballot measures had
been proposed by Mr. Antos at a previous meeting, the
Council then requesting they be placed on this agenda.
Councilman Laszlo noted the proposed measures relate to
specific plans and planned unit developments, open space,
parks and golf courses, and residential zoning, and
requested that the City Attorney review them for appropriate
wording for placement on the ballot. Mr. Antos, 328 - 17th
Street, spoke in support of placing the measures to a vote
as a means to preserve what presently exists in the city.
He suggested two additional measures, one relating to
requiring a general election to approve a proposed
development or modification to an existing development on
parcels of land containing five or more acres, and a Charter
amendment to prohibit an increase in building heights in
excess of current maximum permitted heights for each
district and zone. Councilman Laszlo noted his concern with
the potential for increased building heights on Pacific
Coast Highway, Ocean Avenue or Seal Beach Boulevard in the
future. He proposed a measure that would give the City
Council veto power over the appointment of the Police Chief,
also as referenced in the Congestion Management Plan, a
required minimum level of service "D" at city intersections.
No formal action was taken.
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APPOINTMENTS - BOARDS and COMMISSIONS
Environmental Oualitv Control Board
The District Five vacancy on the Environmental Quality
Control Board was held over.
11-26-90
Housina Element Committee
Councilman Hunt appointed Mr. Robert Jaeschke, Del Monte
Drive, as the District Five representative to the Housing
Element Committee.
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Hellman Ranch SDecific Plan Advisorv Committee
No District Five appointment was made to the Hellman Ranch
Specific Plan Advisory Committee.
Archaeoloaical Plan citizens Task Force
Councilman Hunt appointed Ms. Doris Hoffman, EI Dorado
Drive, as the District Five representative to the
Archaeological Plan Task Force.
Solid Waste Advisorv Committee
Councilman Hunt appointed Mr. Ernie winter, Golden Rain
Road, as the District Five representative to the Solid Waste
Advisory Committee.
Mayor Wilson appointed Mr. George Cook as the District Two
representative to the Solid Waste Advisory Committee.
The District Four and City Council appointments to the
Committee were held over.
Beach Commission
Councilmember Hastings appointed Mr. Stephen Downs as the
District One representative to the Beach Commission.
I
Mr. Greg Henry was appointed as the District Three
representative to the Beach Commission as requested by
Councilmember Forsythe.
Councilman Laszlo ~ppointed Mr. Larry Michaels as the
District Four representative to the Commission.
The District Two and District Five appointments were held
over.
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to approve the above stated
appointments.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
I
CHARTER REVIEW COMMITTEE
Councilmember Hastings requested that a Charter Review
Committee be formed, to consist of three to four members and
staff representatives, to review and make recommendations to
bring the city Charter into conformance with State law.
Councilman Laszlo indicated he would prefer appointment of a
member from each Councilmanic District, and said he did not
feel this task could be completed for placement on the
potential special election. Discussion followed with the
Council indicating their preference for an initial Charter
review from a legal standpoint to designate areas that are
in need of amendment. The City Attorney confirmed that it
would be helpful to amend those sections that have become
out of date due to legislative and case law, and offered
that a preliminary analysis could be commenced, yet it would
be questionable as to whether that could be completed in
time to be placed on an upcoming special election. Hastings
moved, second by wilson, to authorize the City Attorney to
commence the preliminary Charter analysis. Councilmember
Hastings suggested that the issue of nepotism be given
priority consideration.
11-26-90
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT :
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
FISCAL IMPACT UPDATE - HELLMAN RANCH DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Chris Verholtz, member of the Initiative Committee,
requested that the City Council authorize an update of the I
Hellman Ranch fiscal impact report, noting that the $1
million donation to the city, the revenues generated to the
Redevelopment Agency, and maintenance of the park system for
a period of ten years had not been included in the previous
report. He also asked that there be an environmental impact
report and fiscal impact report be prepared for any other
proposed plans that are considered to be placed on the
ballot. Mr. Verholtz stated Mola Development has offered to
bear the cost of the update. In response to council, the
Development Services Director stated it was his
understanding that Hoffman and Associates was originally
retained by Michael Brandman and Associates, the City's EIR
consultant, as a sub-consultant to prepare the fiscal impact
analysis. Councilman Laszlo stated he would prefer a firm
other than HOffman, or that the developer retain their own
consultant. Councilmember Hastings objected to the request,
stated the initiative is based upon the old plan and there
are other elements of that plan that should likewise be
updated.
Hunt moved, second by wilson, to authorize an update of the
fiscal impact report with the understanding that it would be
at no cost to the city. In response to Council, the
Development Services Director stated the last analysis was
based on a three hundred forty unit project and included in I
the May 1989 supplemental EIR, that there may have been
further analysis contained in the June, 1989 final EIR, and
confirmed that the analysis was prepared for the City, not
the developer. Councilman Laszlo questioned whether it
would be ethical for Hoffman to proceed with the update
should the Council not agree with this request. The city
Attorney offered that if there were an existing contract
with the City it may not be appropriate for Hoffman to
perform work for another party, however it would be at the
discretion of the Council to consider the request, that the
Council could request Hoffman not perform the work if that
were the desire, and it would be uncertain if there would be
any legal constraints with their performing the update.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hunt, Wilson
Hastings, Laszlo
Forsythe
Motion failed
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Councilmember Hastings mentioned that she had observed
individuals bow and arrow fishing from the municipal pier,
reported the policies of a number of other cities with
regards to this sport, and requested that an ordinance be
prepared to prohibit bow and arrow fiShing and that the I
lifeguards be granted authority to issue citations for a
violation of the regulations. Councilmember Hastings read a
notice of public hearing to be held on December 12th to
consider the issuance of permits to the Naval Weapons
station for hazardous waste storage units, and urged that
persons attend this hearing. Staff reported a packet was
received this date relating to the hearing to consider the
hazardous waste permits, that the information will be
reviewed and a report forthcoming to the Council, also that
an attempt will be made to obtain additional packets from
the Environmental Protection Agency for Council review.
11-26-90
I
Councilman Laszlo requested that a closed session meeting be
scheduled with the City's liability attorney to review
claims and litigation for the information of all members of
the Council, noting that he had not been made aware of the
status of claims and litigation for a period of time after
being elected to the Council. Councilman Hunt agreed, and
suggested that such review would possibly be helpful every
six months. Mayor Wilson stated a formal complaint had been
lodged with the Fair Political Practices Commission alleging
that the Hellman Ranch had made a political contribution to
her by using a quote on literature forwarded to Seal Beach
citizens, and reported receipt of a communication from the
FPPC advising that they had completed their investigation,
that there was no violation, and the file had been closed.
Mayor Wilson noted another complaint that she had interfered
with free speech, and to that she made reference to a ruling
involving the City of Cerritos where the court determined
both the content and length of public input could be
limited.
I
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Wilson declared Oral Communications open. Mr. Galen
Ambrose, Seal Beach, spoke regarding the fiscal impact of
the Hellman Ranch, the report prepared without the cost of
the land, and whatever is prepared is dependent upon how it
is packaged, promoted, sold, and divided as to what the
fiscal impact would be. He suggested that the Committee
plan could be determined economically viable depending upon
how the wetlands value, mitigation credits, size and value
of parkland, grant monies, and agreement for the commercial
area are handled. Mr. Ambrose agreed with a previous
comment that Seal Beach is impacted by what takes place in
surrounding communities, and suggested the city could become
more aggressive and file a legal action against those cities
as a result of impacts on the environment. He said the City
has a responsibility to the community and no obligation to
the Hellmans or Bixby. Mr. Bruce Stark, Seal Beach, claimed
that the City of Westminster extracted monies from a
neighboring city as a result of the impact of a large
building on their community, and Long Beach was to receive
traffic mitigation monies as a result of development in Seal
Beach. Mr. Stark said the change of title of Assistant to
the city Manager to Assistant city Manager is a
reclassification. He made reference to his experience in
representing persons before Civil Service Commissions, and
based upon his attendance at a recent Seal Beach Commission
meeting, suggested that that body either be eliminated or be
brought into the twentieth century. He expressed
disagreement with the lack of action relating to an issue of
reclassification of an employee, as well as with the
attendance in a closed session of a representative of the
employee, also with two members of the Commission being
former employees. He stated a member of the civil Service
Commission had been threatened with a lawsuit should that
person vote a certain way. Mr. Stark suggested that the
city, rather than the BiXby company, develop a Specific Plan
for the Bixby property, and noted most all speakers at the
public meetings that were held favored no development. Mr.
Stark questioned what is considered a taking of property,
and with regard to financial impact of the Mola development,
claimed that the analysis of the former city Manager was
that the development would impact the city by nearly
$200,000 per year, and stated that fact should be made known
to the public, especially Leisure World. Ms. Norma
StrOhmeier, Seal Beach Boulevard, spoke regarding recent
civil Service Board meetings, stated her suggestions to call
witnesses in the conduct of an investigation of the Grand
I
11-26-90
Jury's charge of nepotism were turned down, that her request
to discuss a nepotism matter was met with a response that
the Board does not have access to personnel files, and that
no action was taken on her request that two members of the
Board remove themselves from the matter under consideration
because of their past professional affiliation with the I
city. Mrs. strohmeier said she was not allowed to present
information she had gathered relating to the nepotism
investigation as a result of threat of lawsuit or removal
from the Board by the attorney representing the Police
Officers Association, and claimed the Civil Service Board
has no value. Mr. Charles Antos, 328 - 17th street, said
the property considered in the plan presented by the Hellman
Specific Plan Committee was a total of two hundred twenty-
five acres. Ms. Wendy Morris, Crestview Avenue, spoke
regarding the legal action of Mola Development against the
city and individual Council members, questioned how the
individual members can be protected from such threats, and
said she did not believe Mola would withdraw the lawsuit
even if the initiative is approved. The city Attorney
responded that unfortunately it is becoming more prevalent
for individual councilmembers to be named in a suit along
with a city, stated the City has taken an aggressive stance
in the Mola case, and that a demurrer has been filed within
the required time frame to the individual councilmember
complaints. Mr. John Nakagawa, 220 - 12th Street, spoke in
support of traffic level of service "D", suggested that
traffic mitigation should be required for any large
percentage increase as a result of development, and
questioned the traffic statistics relating to the
initiative. He reported possession of a letter from the
initiative committee with an out-of-town postmark, yet it is I
understood they have a local office, and commented on the
one hundred twenty-five people reportedly walking the
petition and a party for those individuals hosted by Mola.
Mr. Mario Voce, Catalina Avenue, extended appreciation to
the Hellman Specific Plan Committee for their efforts in
developing the conceptual plan for the Hellman property,
which he spoke in favor of. Ms. Carla Watson, Seal Beach,
described the procedure for residents to remove their name
from the initiative petition, and said even if one favored
the plan, no one should sign the petition or vote for the
initiative because it takes away ones rights. She requested
information from the City Attorney with regards to
development agreements. Mr. Lionel Okin stated Leisure
World represents one-third of the city's population, said he
hoped people will take note of the economics of the proposed
Hellman development, and further, that any increase of
traffic on Seal Beach Boulevard may have a critical effect
on emergency services. There being no further comments,
Mayor wilson declared Oral Communications closed.
CLOSED SESSION
No Closed Session was held.
ADJOURNMENT
Laszlo moved, second by Hastings, to adjourn the meeting
until Wednesday, December 5, 1990 at 9:00 a.m.
I
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Hastings, Hunt, Laszlo, Wilson
None
Forsythe Motion carried
The meeting was adjourned at 12:25 a.m.
11-26-90/12-5-90
I
Approved:
~~..J t. ~k~
Mayor
Attest:
NOTICE OF CHANGE OF HOUR OF MEETING
The regular adjourned meeting of the Seal Beach City Council
scheduled for Wednesday, December 5th at 9:00 a.m. was
rescheduled to be held on December 5th at 4:30 p.m. in city
Council Chambers, 211 - 8th street, Seal Beach. Notice of
said change of hour was posted December 3rd, 1990.
I
Seal Beach, California
December 5, 1990
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
adjourned session at 4:36 p.m. with Mayor Wilson calling the
meeting to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Wilson
Councilmembers Forsythe, Hastings, Laszlo
Absent:
Councilman Hunt
Councilman Hunt arrived at approximately 5:15 p.m.
Also present: Mr. Archibold, Acting City Manager
Mr. Walsh, Assistant to the city Attorney
Mrs. Yeo, City Clerk
J
CIVIL SERVICE BOARD REPORT - CONFLICT OF INTEREST/NEPOTISM
The Acting city Manager read the motion of the civil Service
Board from their meeting of October 25th, "to show a finding
that nepotism does exist and recommend to City Council that
all nepotism be eliminated and established procedures be
followed regarding same." He requested that after review
and discussion, the Council instruct staff to proceed in a
manner determined appropriate. Ms. Sylvia Kellison, Law
Firm of Silver, Goldwasser and Shaeffer, stated she was
present to represent Bill and Michelle Stearns and the
Police Officers Association, and inquired if the reference
to nepotism was as defined in Rule 22 of the Personnel
Rules. Mr. Archibold confirmed that it was. (As a point of