HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Min 1987-05-11
5-11-B7
Seal Beach, California
May 11, 1987
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
session at 7:04 p.m. with Mayor Clift calling the meeting to
order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Clift
Councilmembers Hunt, Risner, Wilson
I
Absent:
Councilman Grgas
Also present: Mr. Nelson, City Manager
Mr. Stepanicich, City Attorney
Mr. Joseph, Assistant City Manager
Mr. Knight, Director of Development Services
Chief Picascia, Police Department
Captain Stearns, Police Department
Captain Garrett, Police Department
Mr. Hemphill, Director of Public Works/
City Engineer
Mr. Osteen, Recreation Director
Mrs. Yeo, City Clerk
WAIVER OF FULL READING
Wilson moved, second by Risner, 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:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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AGENDA AMENDED
Clift moved, second by Risner, to amend the agenda to
consider the Employee of the Year Award, Resolutions
Numbered 3685, 3689, 3690, Ordinance Number 1243, and items
on the Consent Calendar out of order.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR
The Director of Public Works introduced Mr. Donald Hagen,
selected as the Employee of the Year, representing the
Public Works Department. Mayor Clift presented Mr. Hagen
with a City plaque and conveyed congratulations on behalf of
the City Council. Mr. Hagen accepted the plaque with
appreciation.
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3685 - NOTICE OF INTENT - AMENDING PUBLIC
EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT CONTRACT .
Resolution Number 3685 was presented to Council entitled "A I
RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT
BETWEEN THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE PUBLIC EMPLOYEES'
RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL
BEACH." By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution
Number 3685 was waived.. The Assistant City Manager reported
the proposed amendment is required by the Memorandum of
Understanding with the Police Officers' Association,
provides for one-year final compensation, and reported the
resulting change in the benefit rate and-annual cost.
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Risner moved, second by Hunt, to adopt Resolution Number
3685 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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ORDINANCE NUMBER 1243 - AUTHORIZING AMENDMENT - PUBLIC
EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT CONTRACT
Ordinance Number 1243 was presented to Council for first
reading entitled "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO
THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL
BEACH AND THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA
PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM." By unanimous consent,
full reading of Ordinance Number 1243 was waived. Risner
moved, second by Hunt, to approve the introduction of
Ordinance Number 1243 and that it be passed to second
reading.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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RESOLUTION NUMBER 3689 - COMPLETION - PROJECT NUMBER 577 -
AFRC BASEBALL DIAMOND
Resolution Number 3689 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
DECLARING WORK TO BE COMPLETED AS TO PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS FOR PROJECT i577, AFRC BASEBALL DIAMOND IN
ACCORDANCE WITH A CONTRACT ENTERED INTO BETWEEN THE
WAKEFIELD COMPANY AND THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH." By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3689 was waived.
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to adopt Resolution Number
3689 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3690 - COMPLETION - PROJECT NUMBER 579 -
SIDEWALK RECONSTRUCTION
Resolution Number 3690 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
DECLARING WORK TO BE COMPLETED AS TO PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS FOR PROJECT 1579, SIDEWALK RECONSTRUCTION
CITY-WIDE IN ACCORDANCE WITH A CONTRACT ENTERED INTO BETWEEN
ARM AND HAMMER CONCRETE AND THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH." By
unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3690
was waived. Wilson moved, second by Risner, to adopt
Resolution Number 3690 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS "0" THROUGH "X.
Councilman Hunt requested item "Q" removed from the Consent
Calendar. Wilson moved, second by Risner, to approve the
recommended action for items on the Consent Calendar, except
Item "Q", as presented.
O. Approved regular demands numbered 64754
through 64919 in the amount of $564,983.00
and payroll demands numbered 25294 through
25461 in the amount of $183,251.90 as
approved by the Finance Committee, and
authorized warrants to be drawn on the
Treasury for same.
5-11-87
P. Received and filed a letter from the Seal
Beach Cable Communications Foundation
regarding cable coverage of the City Council
meetings.
R. Directed that letters of opposition to
Assembly Bill 768 (Floyd) relating to the
issuance of concealed weapon permits, be
forwarded to the City's State legislators
and the members of the State Public Safety
Committee.
I
S. Supported the recommendations of the Solid
Waste Commission and the Orange County
League of California Cities regarding the
proposed transfer of over $11 million from
the Solid Waste Enterprise Fund to the
County General Fund, and directed that the
City's position be transmitted to the Orange
County Board of Supervisors.
T. Approved support of SB 32 (Ayala) - Delta
Improvements, SB 1122 (Ayala) - Safe Drinking
Water Standards, and AB 1710 (Costa) - Delta
Improvements, and opposition to SB 269 (Kopp) -
Toxic Chemicals/Discharges, AB 859 (Sher) -
Safe Drinking Water Standards, and AB 1028
(Katz) - Toxic Chemicals/Discharges, and
directed that the Council's position be
forwarded to the appropriate representatives
pursuant to the communication from the Orange
County Water Board.
U. Approved the plans and specifications for
Water Main Replacement in Dolphin Avenue
and Seventh Street Alleys, Project Number
581, and authorized the City Manager to
advertise for bids.
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v. Approved specifications for a telemetering
system for the Water Department, and
authorized the City Manager to advertise
for bids.
W. Approved the specifications for fourteen
portable two-way radios for the Police
Department, and authorized the City
Manager to advertise for bids.
X. Denied the claim of Steven L. Bates for
personal financial loss, and referred
same to the City's liability adjuster.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
ITEM "0" - REOUEST - RED CAR MUSEUM
Councilman Hunt noted a request had been received to remove
this item from the agenda. Wilson moved, second by Risner,
to continue the request for the installation of a chain and
post around the Red Car Museum until the next meeting.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
5-11-87
AGENDA AMENDED
Councilmember Risner moved to amend the agenda to consider
Item "BB", hour of adjournment, out of order at this time.
Councilmember Wilson seconded the motion.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Risner, Wilson
Hunt
Grgas
Motion carried
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COUNCIL MEETING ADJOURNMENT TIME
Councilmember Risner read her memorandum to the Mayor and
Councilmembers requesting consideration of a 11:00 p.m.
adjournment of this City Council meeting. Given the hour of
adjournment of the April 27th meeting, she stated she felt
it unwise for the Council to make important decisions at
such a late hour. She suggested that items not having a
mandatory need for an action may be delayed until a time
certain or the next regular meeting. Councilman Hunt stated
he felt this would establish an unwise precedent, and spoke
for proceeding with agenda items without their delay.
Risner moved, second by Wilson, to approve the 11:00 p.m.
adjournment.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Risner, Wilson
Clift, Hunt
Grgas
Motion failed
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PIER RESTAURANT CONCEPT
Pending the arrival of Councilman Grgas, Councilmember
Risner requested that re-evaluation of the viability of the
pier restaurant concept, particularly as it relates to
agreements that have been entered into with the State, be a
matter of discussion prior to considering the proposed pier
lease. She read a communication from the State Wildlife
Conservation Board dated May 7th expressing that Agency's
concerns with the type of restaurant proposed on the pier
and requesting that the Council delay any action on the
. restaurant lease pending their review of the proposal as
provided by the agreement with the City dated December,
1983. She stated she had also spoken with the Conservation
Board by telephone at which time they had conveyed their
concerns, and she noted the importance of obtaining input
from the Coastal Conservancy as well.
AGENDA AMENDED
Risner moved, second by Hunt, to consider agenda items "C"
and "D", proclamations, at this time.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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PROCLAMATIONS
Mayor Clift proclaimed the week of May 17th through May 23,
1987 as "Traffic Safety Week."
Mayor Clift proclaimed "National Public Works Week" during
the period of May 17 through May 23, 1987.
AGENDA AMENDED
Risner moved, second by Wilson, to consider agenda item "F",
a public hearing relating to fences, walls, hedges and
screen plantings.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
5-11-87
ruBLIC HEARING - ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT 4-87 - FENCES. WALLS.
HEDGES and SCREEN PLANTINGS
Mayor Clift declared the public hearing open to consider
zoning Text Amendment 4-87 to amend the zoning regulations
for fences, walls, hedges and screen plantings. The City
Clerk certified that notice of the public hearing had been
advertised as required by law and reported no communications
had been received either for or against this item. The
Director of Development Services presented the staff report
and recommendations of the Planning Commission. The
Director reported ZTA 4-87 proposes amendment to three
specific circumstances: 1) allows placement of a fence on or
near the side street side property line of corner lots,
providing for greater privacy in the side area of the side
yard, the Code presently requiring a fifteen foot setback~
2) revises rear alley setbacks to five and one-half feet for
lots that are greater than twenty-five feet in width, the
Code presently requiring nine feet on a fifteen foot alley,
twelve feet on a twelve foot alley and thirteen feet on an
eleven foot alley, the proposed amendment providing more
usable space in the rear of a lot~ and 3) would allow repair
and upgrading of legal non-conforming fences until such time
as the property is redeveloped, which is consistent with
Section 28-2406 of the Code relating to reconstruction of
non-conforming properties partially destroyed. In response
to Councilman Hunt, the Director explained that the original
recommendation to the Planning Commission was that a fence
be allowed on the property line of corner lots, the
Commission in turn recommended a distance of eight feet from
the curb face. Mr. Hunt urged that Council give
consideration to allowing the placement of fences on the
side property line of corner lots, therefore allowing the
greatest use of the property where the yards are quite
small. Risner moved, second by Wilson, to continue the
public hearing until the next meeting to allow for further
study and public input.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
AGENDA AMENDED
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to consider agenda item "E",
Variance 2-87, 222 Main Street, at' this time.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
I
I
PUBLIC HEARING - APPEAL - VARIANCE 2-87 - HOWARD BRIEF -
222 MAIN STREET
Mayor Clift declared the public hearing open to consider an
appeal to the conditions imposed upon Variance 2-87. The
City Clerk certified that notice of the public hearing had
been advertised and mailed as required by law, and reported
no communications had been received either for or against
this item. The Director of Development Services presented
the staff report, noting that the Planning Commission
considered Variance 2-87 on March 18th and approved same I
with the staff's recommendations, the Planning Commission
concerned with the precedent setting nature of allowing a
non-conforming structure to significantly increase the level
of non-conformity, and although the staff and commission
support the conversion of this residential/office use to
total commerical use, it was felt that the request of the
applicant was excessive. He noted that the Commission
approval reduces the applicant's proposal by only 3.09
percent or one hundred sixty-three square feet. Mr. Knight
advised that the applicant subsequently filed an appeal,
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I
requesting that the Council overturn the Commission's
decision and support his request for a two and one-half
foot, rather than a nine foot, rear setback on the second
floor, and covered parking on the first floor as per the
applicant's submitted plans. Mr. Knight recommended that
the decision of the Planning Commission be upheld.
Mayor Clift 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. Mr. Howard Brief, owner of the
222 Main Street property, stated that he had filed a
detailed explanation with his appeal as to why he believed
the staff report and the Commission's decision to be
incorrect. He stated he felt the proposed architecture of
the structure that was proposed to the Commission was within
the regulations required for this particular property. Mr.
Brief noted that the reduction of one hundred sixty-three
square feet was recommended to the second floor, his
proposal was for a setback on the ground floor that exceeds
twelve feet. Mr. Brief explained that the variance on the
property in 1984 to allow expansion of the bedrooms of the
existing structure required a setback of nine feet on the
ground floor, which was accomplished by removing a fence
from the rear of the property and converting the fenced yard
to parking, and further, allowed adequate visibility to the
alley. He stated that the Planning Department
recommendation was for a nine foot setback to be consistent
with the 1984 variance, however that variance had not
applied to the second floor. Mr. Brief stated his request
is that the second floor cantilever over the parking area
resulting in covered parking, with a two and one-half foot
setback off the alley, the ground level remaining
unobstructed with a setback in excess of twelve feet. Mr.
Brief confirmed that the front setback, tree, brick walkway,
and planting will remain as it presently exists, the only
addition being a stairway to the second floor with a small
overhang at the entrance to the building. Mr. Brief again
explained that his proposal is that the bedrooms would
become open space, the deck would be removed, and the roof
line extended to the back of the property with a two and
one-half foot setback off of the'alley. Mr. Knight
responded that the City established the nine foot setback in
1984, and whether or not it applied to the first or second
floor, staff felt that the nine foot setback was an
appropriate compliance to allow the applicant to gain
additional square footage, that being the reason for the
staff recommendation, also that it was felt inappropriate to
cover the entire site either on the first or second level.
He also responded that there would be no access difficulties
for emergency vehicles, and explained that the staff's
square footage calculations included the area of the garage.
There being no further communications, Mayor Clift declared
the public hearing closed.
Councilman Hunt urged that the Council give consideration to
approving the appeal, noting that although the property
would continue to be non-conforming, as are several other
properties in the immediate vicinity, there does not appear
there would be any detrimental effect or disadvantage to the
community, also that the reduction of square footage would
pose a significant economic loss to the applicant over a
period of years.
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to approve the appeal of
Variance 2-87.
I
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
5-1l-B7
The City Attorney stated that a revised Resolution would be
prepared reflecting the Council's action.
The Council, by unanimous consent, declared a recess at 8:04
p.m. The Council reconvened at 8:28 p.m. with Mayor Clift
calling the meeting to order.
PIER RESTAURANT LEASE
Mayor Clift stated that in view of the absence of Councilman I
Grgas he felt it would not be appropriate to go forward with
the public discussion of the pier restaurant lease at this
time, however requested an update from the City Manager as
to the status of negotiations.
The City Manager stated that pursuant to the direction of
the City Council on April 27th, negotiations have continued
with H.E.G. Enterprises as to a specific list of concerns
posed by the Council relative to the terms of the lease for
the pier restaurant. He reported that a revised draft lease
had been provided the Council reflecting changes through
Friday of the previous week, and that further changes have
been made since that time. Mr. Nelson reviewed in detail
each of the specific lease revisions as set forth in his
memorandum dated May 8, 1987. He further noted revisions
that have since been agreed upon or as clarification to
points set forth in his memorandum. He stated that the
lease term will commence the date the tenant first opens the
restaurant for busines, or six weeks after receipt of all
approved permits from other governmental agencies, given
their contractual interest in the pier, also that all
reference to approval authority by the City Manager has been
deleted and substituted with approval by the City, which
could involve the City Council, Planning Commission, or any
other City department that would be charged with such I
approval. with regard to the storage and transport of
products for the restaurant, he stated that it will be the
responsibility of the tenant to require delivery of goods to
the storage facility and to then transport those goods to
the restaurant by means of a small vehicle, similar in size
to a Cushman vehicle, or by the tram. He advised that the
recitals of paragraph "A" of the lease reflects all
agreements having an active interest in the pier. With
regard to tenant improvements, Mr. Nelson reported the lease
no longer reflects any reference to phases, that there will
not be a second story addition, the facility to be the
building as it presently exists; with the addition of
outside seating, and that the proposal is now to provide the
concession either within the existing building or with
modifications of the existing building at the end of the
pier. He noted that Exhibit "D" to the agreement specifies
the seating to be approximately sixty-seven inside and
twenty-four outside for dining, fifteen inside and twenty-
two outside for cocktails, for a total seating of one
hundred twenty-eight. Mr. Nelson added that Mr. Griffith is
developing a revised luncheon menu with a broader selection
of items and moderate price range. The City Manager pointed
out that the City presently has other tenants of pier
facilities, the sportfishing operation and off-shore oil
firms utilizing pier docking facilities, and explained that I
the staff had initiated a proposal to automate the beach
parking system based upon the off-shore oil operation and
their request for access to parking and the pier on a
twenty-four hour basis, and in turn the City is requiring
the restaurant tenant to reimburse the City for the purchase
and installation of the system up to $14,250, estimated as
one-half of the cost, however it is not necessary that the
City proceed with such installation. He reported that Mr.
Griffith has agreed that if making parking available to
restaurant patrons results in a decrease in revenue to the
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I
City, the tenant will reimburse the City for such loss, the
City presently trying to formulate a method in order to
identify and prove any such loss. Mr. Nelson stated that he
had been informed by an insurance broker that there is a
special insurance available for alcohol related services,
however not usually issued to restaurants, that it is more
common to issue a broad form liability policy which includes
specifics of that operation. He reported that the broker
had advised him that the insurance coverage so stated in the
lease is adequate, one million dollar combined single limit,
and property coverage of not less than $100,000 per
occurrence, noting also that annually the broker would
review the coverage and not more frequently than three years
determine if the amount of coverage is adequate, and if not
the City may then require the coverage to be increased.
The City Manager requested that the Council determine the
degree of satisfaction with the terms of the lease and the
conditions as presently drafted. Mr. Nelson stated that the
problem that he has recently found is that there is no
longer a negotiation between representatives of the City and
the tenant given the degree of behind the scene discussion
by the Council, public and the press. He requested that the
Council give further direction to staff if the draft terms
of the lease are determined to be satisfactory, and that a
final offer be made to the prospective tenant for acceptance
or rejection, and likewise if the terms are not satisfactory
that the Council so indicate. With regard to concerns
expressed regarding participation by other agencies, Mr.
Nelson clarified that Section IV-D of the lease provides
that tenant improvements to the premises are conditioned
upon the tenant obtaining the necessary approvals from all
governmental agencies having jurisdiction over the premises.
He reported discussions with Fish and Game personnel this
date and that it was indicated that they felt they should
have been involved in this matter, also that the City should
move slowly on approval of the agreement. He reported
further that one member of their staff stated that it was
felt that the provision of Section IV-D took into
consideration their interests and did not exclude them
totally from the negotiations. Mr. Nelson also reported
discussion with the Coastal Conservancy, that agency having
indicated they would be forwarding a letter to the City
addressing the capacity of the restaurant and low and
moderate costs pursuant to their agreement with the City.
He advised that Mr. Griffith had been made aware of the
aforementioned discussions and that it has been agreed that
if the Council were to take an action at this meeting, that
action should be conditioned upon receipt of the approvals
from those interested agencies.
councilmember Risner requested that this item be held over
until the following Monday evening when Councilman Grgas
would be in attendance to allow for further clarification of
the lease revisions set forth in the staff report and
discussion of any other changes. Councilman Hunt suggested
that if the Council has additional positive recommendations
or changes, that they should be solidified, presented to the
City Manager for discussion with Mr. Griffith, and if that
can not be accomplished at this meeting, that the Council
meet once again for the sole purpose of reviewing and taking
action on each concern individually, and possibly establish
a degree of importance to each item for negotiation
purposes. Discussion continued regarding a date for the
next meeting.
Risner moved, second by Wilson, to suspend discussion
regarding the proposed pier restaurant lease until Monday,
May 18th. Discussion continued. Mrs. Risner stated she
would also like to receive additional public input.
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Clift moved, second by Wilson, to allow Mr. Griffith the
opportunity to address the Council at this time. Upon the
advice of the City Attorney, the motion was withdrawn
pending a vote on the motion on the floor.
Vote on the motion to continue discussion of this matter
until May 18th:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Risner
Clift, Hunt, Wilson
Grgas
Motion failed
I
Members of the Council indicated their vote on this motion
was with the understanding that the motion may again be made
subsequent to hearing from Mr. Griffith.
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to allow Mr. Griffith to
address the Council at this time.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Wilson
None
Risner
Grgas
Motion carried
Mr. Griffith acknowledged the sentiment and emotion
expressed by the public over the past weeks with regard to
the pier restaurant, as well as a great deal of
misinformation. He stated that when he responded to the
Request for Qualifications, he did so with the idea of
having an opportunity to place a business within the City's
building on the pier pursuant to the guidelines set forth in
the RFQ, and it was felt their proposal would be a positive
element for the community and meet the desires of the City.
He stated it was never the intent to alienate the public I
from presenting their views, and that the lease, as it is
presently revised, is reflective of the concerns exprssed by
the Council, the staff, and public, these changes having
greatly modified their original proposal. Mr. Griffith
stated it was felt that by opening the facility with Phase I
it would give the opportunity for people to recognize that
their concerns and objections were unfounded and then
perhaps at a later date the modifications that were proposed
could be considered. He noted that the original draft of
the lease was consistent with his proposal, meeting the
criteria that had been established by the City, that
proposal evaluated and the staff directed to negotiate with
H.E.G. As a result of the public input, Mr. Griffith stated
there is now an opportunity to take the City's facility and
make it into an operation that he felt would be appropriate
for a fishing pier. He advised that every effort was made
to address and satisfy each of the concerns that had been
set forth by the Council, the staff, and public, and should
the Council determine to meet again and take action on those
items individually, as well as new concerns, without the
opportunity for him to respond or give input, he stated he
felt that would be inappropriate and not in good faith. He-
requested that if there is additional concerns to be brought
forth, that they be referred to the staff to be dealt with
through the negotiation process where there would be an I
opportunity to consider and respond to each item. He noted
that he was one of seven proposals for operation of the pier
restaurant submitted to the City, and should he not be
accepted as the tenant of this restaurant, the City will
have to commence the entire negotiation process once again
with another potential operator, and cautioned that any
experienced restauranteur will request the same
considerations that he has requested. Mr. Griffith noted
that thoughout this process there have been a number of
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I
misrepresentations of their proposal, their company, and
rumors which he felt were unfair. In particular he referred
to comments made regarding the Newport Beach operation, and
stated that there is a lease between that city, H.E.G.
Enterprises, and the present concessionaires, and once their
company has secured all of the permits required for that
facility, H.E.G. will take over that facility from the
present concessionaires and become the operator. He
explained that the present operators are ill and at their
request, H.E.G. is operating their business for them, under
their lease, until such time as all requirements are met and
H.E.G. assumes that operation. He noted that the
photographs that had been shown of the Newport facility is
not representative of what their operation will be, stating
that it is hoped that the new facility will be completed
within six months. Mr. Griffith stated that everything that
had been planned for the Seal Beach pier restaurant was well
defined in their proposal to the City, that their proposal
has been straight forward, and that they have tried to do
everything possible to demonstrate their sincerity in
meeting the wishes of the City.
Risner moved, second by Hunt, to continue discussion of the
pier restaurant lease until Monday, May 18th.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
I
Mayor Clift reported receipt of a message from Councilman
Grgas expressing his apology for being unavoidably detained,
and requesting that the pier lease discussion be continued,
or should the Council choose to take an action, asked that
his opposition to the lease as proposed be reflected.
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3686 - CITY OF FULLERTON - 100th
ANNIVERSARY
Resolution Number 3686 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
COMMEMORATING THE CITY OF FULLERTON ON THE OCCASION OF THE
100th ANNIVERSARY OF ITS FOUNDING." By unanimous consent,
full reading of Resolution Number 3686 was waived. Risner
moved, second by Hunt, to adopt Resolution Number 3686 as
presented.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3687 - SUPPORTING ASSEMBLY BILL 639 -
COASTAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION PROGRAM FUNDING
Resolution Number 3687 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH IN
SUPPORT OF ASSEMBLY BILL 639 (KILLEA)." By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3687 was waived.
Wilson moved, second by Risner, to adopt Resolution Number
3687 as presented.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3688 - SUPPORTING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
WATER POLICY
Resolution Number 3688 was presented to Council entitled "A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, SUPPORTING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ~TER POLICY."
By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3688
was waived. Wilson moved, second by Risner, to adopt
Resolution Number 3688 as presented.
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AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1244 - PARKS and RECREATION COMMISSION -
POWERS. DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES
Ordinance Number 1244 was presented to Council for first
reading entitled "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
AMENDING CHAPTER 16, SECTION 16-4(b) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY I
OF SEAL BEACH RELATING TO THE POWERS, DUTIES AND
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE RECREATION AND PARKS COMMISSION."
By unanimous consent, full reading of Ordinance Number 1244
was waived. Risner moved, second by Wilson, to approve the
introduction of Ordinance Number 1244 and that it be passed
to second reading.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR DINNER
Wilson moved, second by Clift, to authorize the expenditure
of up to $1500 for the City sponsored Employee of the Year
Dinner, May 19, 1987.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
DEPARTMENT OF WATER AND POWER PROPERTY
Hunt moved, second by Wilson, to continue consideration of
the interim use of the Department of Water and Power
property until the meeting of May 26th, as requested by the
DWP Advisory Committee.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
I
Motion carried
ZOETER UPDATE
The City Manager advised that other than the two developers
that have been participating in discussions regarding the
Zoeter School property now questioning whether they wish to
continue, there were no further developments to report at
this time.
REPORT - ASSEMBLY BILL 2926
Mayor Clift reported that the 1986 State Legislature adopted
AB 2926 which authorized school districts to levy a fee for
construction of residential, commercial and industrial
development projects. He advised that the City of Seal
Beach, lying within the boundaries of the Los Alamitos
School District, is now subject to the $1.50 per square foot
fee approved by the District for all covered or enclosed
habitable area of residential development, and $.25 for all
covered or enclosed area of new commercial or industrial
construction. Mayor Clift advised that to implement this
fee the City staff, after consultation with the City
Attorney, applied the State law explicitly and determined
that projects which create habitable space and are exempt
from the fee are ministerial projects, requiring no
discretionary action on the part of the City and are in full
compliance with Code proviSions, noting that if a project
requires any review by the Planning Commission or the City
Council it would not be considered ministerial and payment
of the development fee would be required. Mayor Clift
reported that the Los Alamitos School District disagreed
with the City's interpretation of this law, and discussions
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ensued between the District, City staff and legal counsel.
He also reported that the City of Los Alamitos did not
interpret the State law as Seal Beach had, however did join
with Seal Beach in the concern over the impact of these fees
on senior housing and room additions in particular, that
would not create an increase of the number of students that
might attend the school district, and that further meetings
have been held between elected officials, members of the
city staffs and represenatives of the School District in an
attempt to resolve this issue. Mayor Clift acknowledged
that the School District is facing severe fiscal problems in
their attempt to continue the high level of education
expected, and that the District has few revenue options
therefore is looking to the development fee for partial
relief of the deferred maintenance needs of the District,
however stated that the cities are concerned with the impact
of the development fee as to it's fairness and the
potential, with regard to improvement of existing
residences, of the number of instances where people may
avoid obtaining a building permit due to the added
development fee, which could increase a project cost up to
thirty percent. Mr. Clift reported that there are presently
four Senate bills and twenty Assembly bills being considered
to address the numerous problems created by the adoption of
AB 2926. The Mayor reported that the School District has
agreed to create a trust fund to account for the fees
received, and if legislation is approved that is retroactive
for those funds collected, refunds or other appropriate
actions will then be taken, and that in the interim the City
will refer all permit applications, whether they be
ministerial or discretionary projects, to the School
District for determination of the appropriate fee. Mayor
Clift stated that although the meetings between the District
and the cities did not result in agreement, they did provide
a better understanding between all parties and a commitment
to work together and maintain open communication pending
resolution of this issue.
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COMMUNICATION - CHILD CARE SERVICES
Councilman Hunt acknowledged the communication received from
Ginger Howard requesting that the Council postpone acting on
any lease with Under the Rainbow childcare until alternative
proposals are heard, and asked if the requested postponement
and possibly public input would be in order. The City
Manager stated that this item has been postponed for some
time, and reported that negotiations have resulted in
substantial agreement with Fun and Sun, with only a few
unresolved issues with Under the Rainbow. Risner moved,
second by Wilson, to receive and file the communication from
Ms. Howard.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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AGENDA AMENDED
By unanimous consent, the agenda was amended to include an
additional item as requested by the City Attorney. Risner
moved, second by Wilson, to approve issuance of subpeonas in
the McManigal personnel hearing scheduled for May 21, 1987
before the Civil Service Board, based upon the determination
that the need to take action on this matter arose subsequent
to the agenda being posted.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Risner, Wilson
None
Grgas
Motion carried
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CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Councilmember Risner asked that her requests for
consideration of Council meeting adjournment time and the
re-evaluation of viability of the pier restaurant concept be
placed on the next agenda, also reported complaints received
regarding the condition of the alleys in the Bridgeport
area.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Clift declared Oral Communications open. Mr. John I
Schaefer, 137-1/2 DOlphin, extended appreciation for the
effort that has been directed to the lease of the pier
restaurant, suggested that appointment of a citizens
committee to review the lease provisions may be a
consideration, and asked that representatives of the
interested State agencies be present at the next meeting.
Mrs. Mitzi Morton, 153 - 13th Street, inquired as to who
catered a breakfast that was held at the pier restaurant in
January. The Mayor responded that approximately November of
last year this City was requested to host the quarterly
Second Supervisorial District breakfast, and on January 9th
approximately sixty persons attended that breakfast, most of
whom were representatives of Second District cities. He
noted that after considerable thought the pier restaurant
was chosen as the site of the breakfast if catering could be
provided, and when initial contracts for catering services
were not successful, Mr. Griffith, who at that time was
interested in applying for a proposal for the restaurant,
indicated his desire to provide the food service. Mr. Clift
added that it was understood that anyone providing this
service would be compensated for same. In response to Mrs.
Morton, the Assistant City Manager advised that most
requests for pier restaurant qualifications went out about
the end of November, a tour of the facility conducted in I
December, with the proposals due to be returned by the
latter part of January. Mr. Joseph advised that when terms
were not agreed upon for service of the breakfast by a local
eatery that had been contacted, the breakfast had been
casually mentioned to Mr. Griffith, and upon further
discussion and determination that he was qualified to
provide this service, Mr. Griffith had agreed to do so.
Mrs. Morton expressed her displeasure with the process of
the negotiations, and objected to critical remarks directed
toward persons who have expressed their views on this
matter. Mrs. Morton also objected to the use of City Hall
facilities by Mr. Griffith to discuss and promote his
restaurant proposal. The City Manager responded that the
Council had directed the staff to meet with Mr. Griffith,
also that Mr.Griffith meet with members of the community and
organizations, therefore City facilities were used in the
normal conduct of City business. Wendy Rothman, 300 Ocean
Avenue, inquired as to the City Attorney's opinion regarding
the propriety of allowing one of the prospective bidders to
cater the breakfast before the bidding process was
completed. The City Attorney advised that this matter was
brought to their attention after it had occurred, and
responded that there was no legal violation of the law since
there was payment for the services provided. He further
advised that this particular case was not a formal bidding I
process where there are strict procedural requirements, that
those requirements do not apply to the informal process of
requesting proposals. Mrs. Rothman expressed her feeling
that allowing Mr. Griffith to cater the breakfast was unfair
to other prospective operators, that it should have been
serviced by a neutral party, and further that the Council
must have been aware that Mr. Griffith was an interested
party at that time even though he had not formally submitted
his proposal. The City Manager noted as a point of
clarification that Ruby's had submitted free meal coupons
with their proposal.
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In response to Mr. Bob Heenan, 1320 Crestview Avenue, the
City Manager reviewed the proposed hours of operation of the
restaurant, midnight being the closing hour, the last call
for cocktails being 11:30 p.m. and the patrons requested to
leave by 11:50 p.m., and confirmed that the lease terms on
other restaurants had been reviewed, noting that the San
Clemente lease is for ten years with three ten year options,
explaining that each lease is specific to that particular
operation. With regard to operational hours of the
concession stand, Mr. Nelson explained that the 9:00 a.m.
opening during June, July and August, and the 11:00 a.m.
opening the remainder of the year was based upon pier usage
as observed by the Lifeguard Department, and noted that an
earlier opening is possible if the need is shown. Mrs.
Beverly Casares, Marvista Avenue, referred to a recent news
article relating to the pier restaurant, which also
contained photographs of the Newport Beach pier restaurant
and its unkept premises, also Mr. Griffith's statement that
they use their in-house maintenance for all of their
operations, conflicting comments regarding the lease date of
that facility, and requested that the Council look very
closely at the degree of maintenance that would be provided
to the Seal Beach restaurant. Mr. Jim Gilkerson, 1011
Electric Avenue, also referred to the news article, and
conflicting comments regarding the Newport and Oceanside
facilities of H.E.G. Mr. Griffith stated that due to the
atmosphere of the meeting where the Newport operation was
being criticized he felt that it was not the appropriate
time to respond to the comments made, and assured the
Council that the pictures of that facility are not
representative of their operation. He advised that H.E.G.
does have a signed lease with Newport, the only reason that
building is as it appears at the present time is that they
are awaiting all of the necessary permits, that the plans
for that location are extensive and will consist of a total
new structure, in conformance with Code requirements. With
regard to maintenance, he stated they are maintaining the
structure as it presently exists, which is in a badly
deteriorated state, and had it been known that they would be
operating the business for any period of time on behalf of
the present leaseholders, an arrangement would have been
made to at least make some improvements. Noting that a
rundown facility often takes on the impression of not being
clean, advised that the Newport operation is clean in regard
to it's sanitary nature, although the building will have to
be rebuilt to maintain it properly. He also suggested that
anyone would be welcome to contact the City of San Clemente
regarding the maintenance of that facility. Mr. Griffith
reiterated that a lease has been negotiated with the City of
Newport Beach, made out in the name of the present
leaseholder and H.E.G. Enterprises, explaining that the
present operators are ill and H.E.G. has been operating
their restaurant on an interim basis until they retire, the
building will then be demolished and rebuilt, which can not
be accomplished until all required permits have been
obtained. He noted also that the lease of the present
operator expires on July 1st, and should the necessary
permits not be obtained there would not be a new facility on
the Newport pier, and again stated that what exists now on
the pier is not the type of operation that H.E.G. runs. He
confirmed also that the San Clemente facility has been an
operating restaurant since 1982.
Mrs. Carla Watson, 1635 Catalina Avenue, expressed her
concern with Mr. Griffith's reference to the atmosphere of a
previous meeting and spoke in support of the manner in which
persons had addressed their views on this matter.
Councilmember Wilson recalled that there were persons in the
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audience at the previous meeting who indicated they had
intended to speak in support of the restaurant proposed
however had been warned they should not do so, and
specifically noted one incidence of vandalism. Mrs~ Wilson
read a letter in support of the restaurant as proposed,
however the author unacknowledged. Mr. Bob Rentz, College
Park West resident, spoke in support of the proposed
restaurant, and stated he felt a good restaurant, run
properly, would be an asset to the City, the entire
community. Christopher Marra, 1009-1/2 Seal Way, spoke in I
favor of holding this matter over for further discussion,
also stated that photographs of the San Clemente operation,
not presented to the Council, showed the unkept condition of
that facility. Mr. Marra stated his objection to properties
in the City being purchased by a local developer who in turn
is cutting down trees on those properties and in the
parkways, rather than removing and saving the trees, and
asked that the Council take some action to not allow more
trees to be lost. Mr. Steve Woodward, 4th Street, also
objected to the destruction of trees in his neighborhood by
the same developer, as well as this persons practice of
buying and demolishing affordable housing in the community,
stating this also impacts the parking problem. Mr. Harold
Rothman, 300 Ocean Avenue, stated that through his
investigation he determined that $1.25 to $2.00 per square
foot is the customary rental cost of properties similar to
the pier restaurant, and questioned the lease of 3300 square
feet of fully fixturized restaurant space to H.E.G. for
$2000 per month. He stated that as a restauranteur he would
suggest further consideration of the minimum rent, the term
of the lease, stating five to ten years rather than twenty-
five would be a more realistic term, include a cost of
living escalator, and a termination clause should the
percentage not be met. He added that if the tenant were to I
make a greater investment, then a longer lease term could be
considered, also reported that the national average for
common area is $.25 a foot, which should also be a
consideration. Mr. Lee Moore, 1251 Marlin Avenue, spoke for
retaining Seal Beach's unique, small town atmosphere. He
objected to the lack of reaction by members of the Council
to the public, also to the negotiation of the lease by staff
and the City Attorney, and to the terms of the original
drafted lease. Councilmember Risner informed Mr. Moore that
the City Attorney did not negotiate the lease, that their
firm took the negotiated terms and reviewed them for
legality. MS. Francis Johnson, 125 Coastline Drive,
objected to being required to identify herself after an
unsigned letter was read by a member of the Council. She
spoke against liquor being sold on the pier outside of the
building, asked if the walking area at the end of the pier
would be encroached upon, and further expressed her concern
with trees, particularly those in Gum Grove Park with
markings on them. The Council confirmed that alcohol would
be served outside of the restaurant, however within a glass
enclosed patio, also that the walkway and fishing area would
remain open. The City Manager explained that two persons
have been retained to inventory the Gum Grove Park trees,
one retained by Mola Development, the other by the City, and
that the assessment of the trees will be included in the I
draft EIR for the Hellman development which will be
available in the near future.
Ms. Ginger Howard, 301 - 8th Street, spoke regarding her
communication to the City Manager regarding alternative
childcare opportunities at the Zoeter facilities, and asked
if a response would be forthcoming to her proposal. The
City Manager again reviewed the status of negotiations with
the Sun and Fun and the Under The Rainbow childcare
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operations, and stated his understanding of the discussions
relating to acquisition of the Zoeter site was that it was
the intent to continue the existing childcare operations,
noting that he had not received a direction contrary to
that. Members of the Council explained to Ms. Howard that
negotiations are taking place with the existing operators
based upon strong public support of those operations during
the Zoeter discussions, also advised that a response to her
inquiry would be forthcoming from the City Manager.
Councilmember Risner requested to be excused from the
meeting at 11:05 p.m.
Mr. Ronald Kredell, 1615 Seal Way, stated he felt public
opinion showed that people do not want Mr. Griffith as the
operator of the pier restaurant, nor do they want liquor at
the restaurant, citing potential liability of those who
consume alcohol, stated that the atmosphere of the community
should be considered over revenue, and questioned what an
automated parking lot is. The City Manager responded and
described two different types of automated systems that may
be considered. The City Attorney pointed out that although
the City could be named in a lawsuit, the lease does contain
an indemnification provision making the restaurant liable.
Discussion continued. There being no other communications,
MaY9r Clift declared Oral Communications closed.
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CLOSED SESSION
The City Attorney stated the Council would meet in Closed
Session to discuss personnel matters. By unanimous consent
of those present, the Council adjourned to Closed Session at
11:27 p.m. and reconvened at 11:50 p.m. with Mayor Clift
calling the meeting to order. The City Attorney reported
the Councill had met in Closed Session to discuss personnel
matters and gave direction to the staff regarding personnel
Memorandums of Understanding.
ADJOURNMENT
Wilson moved, second by Hunt, to adjourn the meeting until
Monday, May 18th at 7:00 p.m. for continued discussion of
the pier restaurant lease.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Clift, Hunt, Wilson
None
Grgas, Risner
Motion carried
The meeting adjourned at 11:51 p.m. by unanimous consent of
those Council members present.
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Approved:
Attest: