HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Min 1984-10-22
10-8-84 / 10-22-84
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involved with the preschool and day care operations a
statement was made that they would be included in any
proposal made by the Zoeter School Cultural Center Non-
profit Group regarding lease the facilities, that he had
not spoken on behalf of the City. Mr. Sweeney asked if
a date has been established for submittal of plans by the
Cultural Group for the Zoeter site. The City Manager
responded that nothing definite was forthcoming to his
knowledge. There were no other oral communications; Mayor
Brownell declared oral communications closed.
CLOSED SESSION
The City Manager reported the Closed Session was no longer
necessary.
ADJOURNMENT
Wilson moved,
at 10:45 p.m.
AYES:
NOES:
second by Risner, to adjourn the meeting
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
Approved: ~-'
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~'..v ~..I' J.... _..rJ~.e _
Mayor
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Attest:
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.
Seal Beach, California
October 22, 1984
The City Council of the City of Seal Beach met in regular
session at 7:00 o'clock p.m. with Mayor Brownell calling
the meeting to order with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Brownell
Councilmembers Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
Absent:
None
I
Also present: Mr. Parker, City Manager
Mr. Stepanicich, City Attorney
Mr. Joseph, Assistant City Manager
Mr. Baucke, Director of Development Services
Sgt. Stearns, Police Department
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
10-22-84
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:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
PUBLIC HEARING - APPEAL 4-84 - SOUTHLAND CORPORATION
7-ELEVEN STORE) - 1200 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
Mayor Brownell declared the public hearing open to consider
Appeal 4-84 to the Planning Commission's denial of
Conditional Use Permit 14-84 for off-sale beer and wine
in conjunction with an existing 7-Eleven Store located
at 1200 Pacific Coast Highway. The City Clerk certified
that notice of public hearing was published and mailed
as required by law and that no communications had been
received either for or against this matter. Mr. Baucke
reported that the applicant had been delayed and was not
present. Grgas moved, second by Wilson, to continue the
public hearing until later in the meeting pending arrival
of the applicant.
I
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3417 - BICENTENNIAL OF RANCHO LOS ALAMITOS
Resolution Number 3417 was presented to Council and read
in full by Mayor Brownell entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, HONORING
TWO HUNDRED YEARS OF ACCOMPLISHMENT." Risner moved, second
by Grgas, to adopt Resolution Number 3417 as presented.
AYES: ,... . . Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
NOES: . None Motion carried
I
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3418 - COMMENDING CAPTAIN ALFRED "AL"
CHAFE - RETIREMENT
Resolution Number 3418 was presented to Council and read
in full by Mayor Brownell entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA,
COMMENDING CAPTAIN ALFRED "AL" CHAFE FOR HIS MANY YEARS
OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH AND OUR
COMMUNITY." Captain Chafe and his family were introduced
and members of the Council extended best wishes to Captain
Chafe on his retirement. Grgas moved, second by Wilson,
to adopt Resolution Number 3418 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3419 - HONORING SINGER/SONGWRITER STEVE
GOODMAN - PROCLAIMING STEVE GOODMAN DAY
Resolution Number 3419 was presented to Council and read
in full by Mayor Brownell entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, HONORING
SINGER/SONGWRITER STEVE GOODMAN AND PROCLAIMING NOVEMBER
3, 1984 AS STEVE GOODMAN DAY IN SEAL BEACH." Grgas moved,
second by Clift, to adopt Resolution Number 3419 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
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RESOLUTION NUMBER 3420 - APPROVING FINAL PARCEL MAP NO.
83-1002 - JOYCE ROSS - 127 - 2nd STREET - CONDOMINIUM
CONVERSION
Resolution Number 3420 was presented to Council entitled
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
10-22-84
APPROVING FINAL PARCEL MAP NO. 83-1002." By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3420 was waived.
Risner moved, second by Clift, to adopt Resolution Number
3420 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, wilson
None Motion carried
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RESOLUTION NUMBER 3421 - ESTABLISHING "NO PARKING" ZONE -
PORTION OF PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY (MARINER DRIVE)
Resolution Number 3421 was presented to Council entitled
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH
ESTABLISHING A "NO PARKING" ZONE ON A PORTION OF PACIFIC
COAST HIGHWAY IN SEAL BEACH." By unanimous consent, full
reading of Resolution Number 3421 was waived. Clift moved,
second by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number 3421 as
presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3422 - UNITED STATES NAVAL WEAPONS STATION -
FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY
Resolution Number 3422 was presented to Council and read
in full by Mayor Brownell entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, HONORING
THE UNITED STATES NAVAL WEAPONS STATION ON ITS FORTIETH
ANNIVERSARY." Risner moved, second by Clift, to adopt
Resolution Number 3422 as presented.
I
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS "G" THROUGH "I"
Clift moved, second by Wilson, to approve items on the
Consent Calendar as presented.
G. Approved the minutes of the regular City Council
meeting of October 8, 1984.
H. Approved regular demands numbered 53874 through
54056 in the amount of $138,855.04, and payroll
demands numbered 10800 through 10960 in the amount
of $122,555.26 as approved by the Finance Committee
and authorized warrants to be drawn on the Treasury
for the same.
I. Authorized the construction of a berm, consistent
with equipment and manpower resources, and
authorized preparation of a report addressing
long-term needs, drainage, groin maintenance and
other related beach issues, as recommended by
the Moffatt and Nichol report relating to storm
damage.
I
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - APPEAL 4-84 - SOUTHLAND
CORPORATION (7-ELEVEN STORE) - 1200 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
Mayor Brownell declared the continued public hearing open.
The Director of Development Services presented the staff
report and explained that the applicant is appealing the
Planning Commission's denial of Conditional Use Permit
14-84, a request for off-sale beer and wine in conjunction
with an existing convenience store. Mr. Baucke reported
that the Planning Commission denied the C.U.P. for the
10-22-84
following reasons: I) that the 7-Eleven Store is within
100 feet of residents opposing the sale of beer and wine;
2) that the Zoeter School playground is still used by
children and such alcohol sales create public concerns
for safety; and 3) the final disposal of the School is
unknown at this time. The Director reported a number of
discussions relating to the rules and procedures of the
State Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, particularly Rule I
61.3, the two factors of review being 1) High Crime - when
reported crimes such as warrant arrests, drunk driving,
petty thefts, etc. for that reporting district exceed the
citywide average for reported crimes by twenty percent
or greater; and 2) Overconcentration - when the number
of that type of license in the census tract exceeds the
County average number of licenses per population. He stated
that the ABC has explained that Rule 61.3 requires that
if both of the areas are met, a detailed investigation
is made and the applicant must show public convenience
and/or necessity, then a determination is made to approve
or deny the application based on whether the application
has been found to be for public convenience and/or necessity,
which then becomes a judgement decision of the ABC on a
case-by-case basis. He noted that the ABC has stated that
this criteria is not specifically established as a quota
device or designed to establish limits within a particular
area, but rather is a State departmental review process
which puts the burden of proof that the application provides
a public convenience and/or necessity not specifically
provided by other operations within one thousand feet of
the applicant. The Director stated that the staff would
recommend consideration of the following: l) that the school
is closed and will not be put to educational use; 2) that
the Police Department has no objection to the application I
since the school has been closed; and 3) that the inclusion
of off-sale beer and wine to the existing twenty-four hour
convenience store operation is not expected to significantly
impact the neighboring community, but it can be expected
that there will be a possible increase of patrons prior
to the 2:00 a.m. State sales hour limitation. Mr. Baucke
stated that if the Council finds that the application will
provide a public convenience and/or necessity not provided
by other operations within 1000 feet, staff would recommend
approval of Appeal 4-84 with the following conditions:
I) that no video games be allowed in the store; 2) that
no alcohol be sold after 12 a.m. Sunday thru Thursday and
1:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday; 3) that the Conditional
Use Permit be issued to Southland Corporation and that
it be non-transferable; and 4) that staff conduct a review
of the permit after a period of six months.
Mayor Brownell invited members of the audience wishing
to speak in favor of the Appeal to come to the microphone
and state their name and address for the record. Mr. Lew
Corbo, Development Manager for 7-Eleven, Southland
Corporation, referred to the background facts since June
1982 when the Southland Corporation initially applied for
a Conditional Use Permit, and subsequent actions leading I
to this appeal. He statea he felt matters of past concern
have been mitigated, noting that a determination has been
made and the Zoeter School is now closed, that ,the City
is pursuing a lease arrangement for that property, that
the Police Department indicated they were no longer as
concerned since the School is closed and because of what
is going to take place at the site, that the Recreation
Department did not have concerns with the sale of beer
and wine in the store, that crime statistics have been
addressed, and that a curfew has been addressed through
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a condition of approval. Mr. Corbo stated that the
conditions of approval are acceptable. He reported that
on this date he had personally tried to reach residents
and tenants in the area immediately adjacent to the store
to determine their feelings regarding the addition of beer
and wine, and of those persons he spoke with, no objection
was raised, additionally that a petition had been signed
by numerous persons in support of the additional products.
Mr. Corbo stated that the right to sell alcoholic beverages
is a privilege, closely guarded, and requested Council
consideration of the issuance of the permit. Mr. Roger
Grover, 7-Eleven franchisee, 1200 Pacific Coast Highway,
stated he has been at the location for over a year, and
concurred with the previous statements. He stated his
knowledge of several neighbors that would like the sale
of beer and wine added to the store, and reported requests
of twenty to thirty other customers per day. Mr. Grover
stated there have been no problems or instances of crime
since he has been at the location, that 7-Eleven is no
different from any other type of store, and further, that
it will surely mean an increase in business at this location.
Mr. Van Tarver, 4380 Elder, referred to ABC Rule 61.3,
their procedure for investigation and public protest, noted
that Southland appears to have resolved previous concerns
and have agreed to the conditions proposed, stated his
familiarity with the sale of alcoholic beverages, and asked
if Southland was being penalized in some way for previous
violation of the rules by others.
I
Mayor Brownell invited members of the audience wishing
to speak in opposition to the Appeal to come to the
microphone and state their name and address for the record.
Mr. Rodney Johnson, III 1 Electric, six year resident/homeowner,
expressed his concern with traffic on 12th Street utilized
by children visiting the beach in the summer and students
going to and from school in the winter, also with respect
to parents transporting children to and from the presently
existing preschool at the Zoeter site. As a teacher, he
expressed his knowledge of young people requesting adults
to purchase alcoholic beverages for them, also referred
to the number of existing liquor stores in the general
locale of his residence. Rita Flint, 210 - 13th Street,
spoke in opposition to granting the license, citing the
existing number of liquor stores, the 7-Eleven location
and increased traffic congestion, also, that she understood
the Southland Corporation will sell lottery tickets if
the proposition passes, which will again increase traffic.
Nancy Kredell, l615 Seal Way, referred to crime statistics
she had obtained in 1978 from the City of Long Beach relating
to four similar type stores, voiced her objection to this
type of store in Seal Beach, referred to the potential
for increased police problems, referred to the Planning
commission denial of the CUP, and stated the City does
not need additional beer and wine outlets. Dale Heatherington,
1109 Seal Way, Los Angeles pOlice officer, referred to
problems in Los Angeles relating to liquor stores, and
suggested that the Council should be aware of problems
that could occur in the future if the liquor license is
allowed. Mr. Jim Gilkerson, 1011 Electric Avenue, referred
to his letter to the Council of October 15th citing crime
rate statistics based on the census tract, which he stated
is the way the ABC develops their crime rate figures, that
the crime rate in the downtown area constitutes 59.3 percent
of the total for Seal Beach and that at present, there
are two to two and one-half times more liquor stores than
the ABC quota, and recommended that the Council stop the
expansion of liquor stores. Mr. John Kanapka, 1885 McKinney
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10-22-84
way, referred to the five separate divisions of the City,
stated COllege Park West, College Park East nor Leisure
World have a place for beer and wine, and suggested that
if too many liquor stores exist in a particular area, they
be located in the areas he mentioned. There were no other
communications; Mayor Brownell declared the pUblic hearing
closed.
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3416 - APPROVING APPEAL A-4-84 - SOUTHLAND I
CORPORATION (7-ELEVEN) - 1200 PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
Resolution Number 3416 was presented to Council entitled
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING APPEAL A-4-84 FILED ON THE PLANNING
COMMISSION'S DENIAL OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 14-84."
By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number
3416 was waived. Councilmember Risner referred to the
October 18 memorandum from the Chief of Police which stated
in part that "Seal Beach is a low crime area overall,
annually ranked as among the safest three cities of all
communities in Orange County", noting that the downtown
area is the basic business district of the City hence more
of this type of activity, not only liquor stores but
restaurants as well, and inquired as to the existing number
of liquor stores. Mr. Baucke stated a report from the
Finance Director indicated there are eight liquor stores,
which includes Safeway and Skaggs, and reviewed the formula
used by the ABC in determining the number of such operations
in a particular area. Councilman Grgas referred to a
petition in support of the CUP request which contained
two hundred sixty-six Seal Beach signatures, the majority
of those from the Old Town area out of a total of three
hundred twenty-five signatures, and inquired as to the I
date of the petition and the time frame of obtaining the
signatures. Mr. Baucke responded that the petition is
approximately one year old and that the applicant had stated
the signatures were gathered in two weeks. He also explained
the ABC's method of calculating crime figures for a census
tract in which the application is located, and with regard
to traffic impact, he stated an ABC license is categorically
exempt from the environmental impact requirements of CEQA.
A member of the audience, Mr. Heatherington, responded
to Councilman Grgas that 7-Eleven does not have a higher
crime rate than other outlets, that from his experience
7-Eleven tries to do a good jOb, sometimes using security
devices where needed, and that they have a good reputation.
Mr. Corbo also responded to Mr. Grgas that the store located
on westminster Avenue near Bolsa does sell beer and wine,
operates on a twenty-four hour basis, and stated he could
not respond to crime statistics for a particular store,
that their calculations were based upon all Orange County
stores and that there was no correlation between the stores
that did and did not sell beer and wine, also confirmed
that the Seal Beach store is open on a twenty-four hour
basis. Councilman Grgas reported concerns mentioned to
him regarding young persons spending a great deal of time
at the 7-Eleven location and the possibility of obtaining
alcoholic beverages through an adult, stating he wished I
some assurance could be made that such violations would
not occur. He spoke in support of the six month review
and requested close observation of the operation by the
city staff and Police Department if the CUP is granted
to insure that the conditions are met and if violations
occur, the Council is made aware of same. Mr. Corbo
reiterated that if the privilege is granted it will be
duly respected, stating that not only the City but the
ABC will be monitoring the operation, that safeguards are
placed on the sale of alcoholic beverages, that no small
10-22-84
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containers are stocked, that at the hour alcohol sales
are to cease the area in which beer and wine are stored
is securely locked, and noted that the franchisee is fully
aware of the impact of any violation or complaint.
Councilman Grgas pointed out that should the Zoeter site
be designated for commercial use, it is possible that a
retail operation at that location may also request the
sale of beer and wine, additionally he requested that the
franchisee make every effort to control the incidence of
litter. Discussion continued regarding the procedure for
review of the Conditional Use Permit at the end of the
six month period and extension thereof. The City Attorney
revised the wording of Condition 4 to read as follows:
"That the term of this permit shall be for six (6) months,
after which time the Planning Commission can extend the
permit for another six (6) month period of time provided
that all conditions of approval have been satisfied and
no serious police problems have occurred. At the end of
the second six (6) month period of time, the Planning
Commission may extend the permit indefinitely provided
that all conditions of approval have been satisfied and
no significant police problems have occurred." Grgas moved,
second by Clift, to approve Resolution Number 3416 with
conditions, as amended.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, wilson
None
None Motion carried
I
It was the order of the Chair, with consent of the Council,
to recess the meeting at 8:23 p.m. The meeting reconvened
at 8:38 p.m. with Mayor Brownell calling the meeting to
order.
REPORT - REFERENDUM - ORDINANCE NUMBER ll70 - CITY OF SEAL
BEACH BIXBY OLD RANCH BUSINESS PARK SPECIFIC PLAN
The City Clerk reported that pursuant to Council action
of October 8th relating to Ordinance Number 1170, the Seal
Beach Bixby Old Ranch Business Park Specific Plan and
referendum thereto, the following options were available
for Council consideration: 1) repeal Ordinance Number 1170
in its entirety; 2) call a Special Election; or 3) postpone
the order of an election until a later date. The Clerk
stated that should the Council choose to call an election,
the appropriate documents had been provided for Council
action, and further, recommended that January 29, 1985
be considered as the earliest reasonable election date,
and estimated the cost of a Special Election to be $20,000,
and an extra $1,OOO for each additional measure placed
on the ballot.
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Lengthy discussion followed with members of the Council
expressing their views regarding various matters. Councilman
Clift quoted a statement from the previous meeting relating
to a suggested elimination of the thirty-five foot height
restriction with reference made to possible replacement
of obsolete Leisure World buildings with high-rise in the
future, and comments made relating to low income housing
as an alternative for development of the Bixby site. Mr.
Clift expressed his objection to placing anything except
the Bixby issue on a special election ballot, particularly
an advisory question relating to the development area or
height variance of the hotel complex proposed for the
Department of Water and Power site. Councilmember Risner
stated that comments referred to relative to low income
housing had been misunderstood, and spoke in support of
placing advisory measures on a special election ballot.
10-22-84
Councilman Grgas directed comments to a proposed DWP advisory
measure and urged that it not be placed on the ballot due
to the status of current negotiations for that project.
As a point of clarification, Councilmember wilson explained
that she had previously made a statement to the Council
that the only conversation she was aware of regarding high-
rise in Leisure World was made by an individual at a luncheon
who stated he would like to tear down all offices in Leisure
World and build one nine-story high-rise, which she said
she understood not to be a serious statement. She stated
that at a later date a Golden Rain officer had commented
to her that eventually Leisure World would want high-rise,
a statement to which she expressed surprise. Additionally,
Mrs. Wilson reiterated that persons she has spoken with
that signed the petition thought they were only supporting
placing the Bixby issue on the ballot, not in opposition
to the project.
Councilman Clift moved to repeal Ordinance Number 1170
in its entirety. Councilman Grgas seconded the motion.
Council discussed allowing members of the audience to again
speak to this issue, and it was determined by majority
consensus that fifteen minutes be allowed for presentation
of opposing viewpoints from the audience. John Follis,
4372 Elder, asked the reasons for Councilmembers support
of the Bixby Plan, and objected to placing other measures
on the ballot and expenditure of funds to do so. Frank
Laszlo, 4480 Candleberry Avenue, reported procedures followed
while gathering petition signatures, and stated those persons
signing the petition were opposed to the project, were
not signing to place the issue on the ballot. Mitzi Morton,
153 - 13th Street, suggested a ballot measure setting the
maximum development height at thirty-five feet and not
allowing Specific Plans to take precedence. Fran Levy,
4079 Birchwood Avenue, stated none of the persons who signed
her petitions did so to place the issue on the ballot,
that they signed in opposition to the height, and stated
her objection to limiting public comments. Robert Cook,
441 Central Avenue, made reference to the belief that some
members of the Golden Rain Foundation Board may favor high
rise development in that community in the future, noting
that it would then be in their interest to have the Bixby
height variance pass. Jay Covington, 4260 Dogwood Avenue,
pointed out that the sales tax generated to the City from
the 1980 approved development Plan would far exceed revenue
generated from the Specific Plan proposed development.
Tom White, 127 - 12th Street, President of the Seal Beach
Homeowners Group, reported ninety-six percent of their
membership polled supported repeal of Ordinance Number
1170. Barbara Lukinovich, 701 Marvista, expressed her
objection to negative comments directed to members of the
Council, and spoke in support of placing other questions
on the ballot. John Broaddus, 13620 Alderwood Lane, Vice-
President of the Golden Rain Board, expressed his amazement
at comments relating to supposed high-rise within Leisure
World, and noted that there has not nor will there be any
item on their agenda relating to Bixby or high-rise. He
stated that rumor of future high-rise originated with a
comment by a resident of that community during a birthday
party. Howard McCurdy, 13922 El Dorado, also directed
his comments to remarks made relating to high-rise in Leisure
World, and clarified that during informal discussions between
members of the Board of Directors, comments have been made
that in approximately eighteen years when the mortgages
are paid, the life of the buildings will be nearly extinct
and it will be necessary to build something in their place,
the only thing feasible and economical would be to build
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10-22-84
high-rise. Rose Berg, 13681 St. Andrews Drive, stated
her feeling that Leisure World residents who signed the
petition were not properly informed as to what they were
signing, that it is incorrect to think Leisure World wants
high-rise, and expressed her support for the Bixby project.
I
Councilman Grgas stated he was not convinced that approval
of the height variance for this project will not set a
precedent, and expressed his concern that should it be
granted the downtown area, at some time in the future,
could ultimately be forced into higher density, revenue
generating projects. He spoke to the right of citizens
to the referendum process, noted that once the development
commences it is irreversible, and referred to the comparison
of property tax versus sales tax revenue to the City over
the life of the project as a valid concern. Councilmember
Risner noted the extensive review that has taken place
for this project, referred to the height variance which,
under a Specific Plan would not set a precedent for other
areas of the City, stating that a Specific Plan allows
tradeoffs for the height variance such as the fourteen
percent land coverage, also noting that concerns for loss
of privacy expressed by Rossmoor residents have been
mitigated through the reduction of building height or
relocation of the buildings toward the freeway, a block
wall and dense landscaping. with regard to traffic, Mrs.
Risner also stated those concerns have been mitigated with
the addition of the 7th Street connector, widening of Seal
Beach Boulevard at the project area, and traffic signal
improvements, therefore traffic conditions would be improved.
Mrs. Risner spoke to liability concerns which have previously
been addressed by the City Attorney, and safety factors
relating to the Reserve Center to which the Attorney General's
office said there were no objections to the Bixby project.
Mrs. Risner expressed her views that the project will be
of substantial benefit to the entire City from an economic
standpoint, spOke in support of the rights of property
owners to the extent that it does not harm another, and
stated her feeling that the project is superior to the
plan approved in 1980. She expressed her regret that the
issue appears to be divisive, stated her hope that the
voters will examine the issues carefully and express their
views at the polls. Councilmember Wilson stated she has
voiced her opinion regarding the project in the past, and
inquired as to the definition of high-rise. Mr. Baucke
explained that a high-rise building is six stories or greater
according to the Uniform Fire Code, that the subject
buildings are considered mid-rise. Mrs. Wilson reiterated
that approval of the height limitation for this property
does not mean a similar variance would be approved for
another area. She stated that the impression has been
given that she was accommodating the wishes of the Golden
Rain Foundation by voting in favor of the height variance,
which she declared was untrue, that her support of the
project was her own decision based upon the studies and
information relating to this partiCUlar project. Mayor
Brownell also referred to the extensive studies relating
to the project, considered to be reputable authority, and
from that information and evaluation of concerns expressed,
he based his decision regarding this project, not to any
interest of Leisure World. He reported, however, numerous
discussions with Leisure World residents regarding the
project, with only one person indicating that the project
should not be approved, others expressing their feeling
that it was a productive use of the land, and expressed
his feeling.that the project will generate needed revenue
to the City. Councilman Clift expressed his feeling as
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to apparent dismissal of concerns regarding Accident
Potential Zones and traffic relative to the Bixby project,
stated he felt there was no lessening of the accident
potential by the statement of the Attorney General's office,
and stated his knowledge that the Commanding Office of
the A.F.R.C. as the best qualified person who could have
spoken to safety of aircraft operations at the Center.
He commented on revenue that could be forthcoming to the I
City through another development or the 1980 plan versus
the Specific Plan, stated that the referenced fourteen
percent land coverage does not include the paved areas
and if taken into consideration would equate to nearly
, .
the same as the 1980 plan, and further, expressed h1s
disbelief that traffic will be improved or congestion reduced.
Vote on the motion to repeal Ordinance Number 1170:
AYES:
NOES:
Clift, Grgas
Brownell, Risner, Wilson
Motion failed
SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
Wilson moved, second by Risner, to call a Special Municipal
Election.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Risner, Wilson
Grgas Motion carried
Clift moved, second by Grgas, to establish the date of
the Special Election for Tuesday, January 29, 1985.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
Clift moved, second by Grgas, that no additional ballot
measures be included on the Special Election ballot.
AYES:
NOES:
Clift, Grgas
Brownell, Risner, Wilson
Motion failed
Grgas moved, second by Clift, to not place a question on
the ballot relating to the Department of Water and Power
site development. Discussion followed.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Wilson
None
Risner Motion carried
Risner moved, second by Clift, to submit an advisory ballot
question to read: "Would you object to the widening of
Pacific coast Highway to six (6) lanes through the City
of Seal Beach?"
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
In response to a member of the audience, the City Attorney
stated he would have some concern with placing a question
on the ballot relating to limitation of on-site and off-
site sale of beer and wine, since the ABC controls the
issuance of those licenses.
I
It was the order of the Chair with consent of the Council
to declare a brief recess at 10:54 p.m.; the meeting
reconvened at 11:08 p.m. with Mayor Brownell calling the
meeting to order.
lO-22-84
I
ORDINANCE NUMBER 1167 - CALLING SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION -
JANUARY 29, 1985
With the addition of an advisory measure, the City Attorney
recommended that the Ordinance be amended by adding a new
Section 3 to accommodate the Council's action, and that
the subsequent Sections be renumbered accordingly. The
City Clerk read the proposed wording of Section 3 as follows:
"Furthermore, the City Council of the City of Seal Beach
is hereby ordering that the following Advisory Measure
be submitted to the voters at the aforesaid Special Municipal
Election as provided by California Elections Code Section
5353: Would you object to the widening of Pacific Coast
Highway to six (6) lanes through the City of Seal Beach."
It was the unanimous consensus of the Council that the
entire text of Ordinance Number 1170, in lieu of a synopsis,
be printed in the sample ballot pamphlet. By unanimous
consent, full reading of Ordinance Number 1167 was waived.
Wilson moved, second by Clift, to adopt Ordinance Number
1167 as amended entitled "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, CALLING AND GIVING
NOTICE OF THE HOLDING OF A SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO
BE HELD IN SAID CITY ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 1985, FOR
THE SUBMISSION TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF SAID CITY AN
ORDINANCE RELATING TO "CITY OF SEAL BEACH BIXBY OLD RANCH
BUSINESS PARK SPECIFIC PLAN" AND AN ADVISORY MEASURE RELATING
TO "THE WIDENING OF PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY."
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3423 - REQUESTING COUNTY SERVICES -
SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION - JANUARY 29, 1985
Resolution Number 3423 was presented to Council entitled
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE
COUNTY OF ORANGE TO RENDER SPECIFIED SERVICES TO THE CITY
RELATING TO THE CONDUCT OF A SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
TO BE HELD IN THE CITY ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 1985."
By unanimous consent, full reading of Resolution Number
3423 was waived. Risner moved, second by Wilson, to adopt
Resolution Number 3423 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3424 - AUTHORIZING ARGUMENTS - SPECIAL
MUNICIPAL ELECTION - JANUARY 29, 1985
The City Attorney advised, and the City Council concurred,
that a synopsis be prepared for the Advisory Measure, and
that no Council arguments be authorized. By unanimous
consent, full reading of Resolution Number 3424 was waived.
After discussion, Risner moved, second by Wilson, to adopt
Resolution Number 3424 entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING
CERTAIN OF ITS MEMBERS TO FILE A WRITTEN ARGUMENT REGARDING
A CITY MEASURE" as amended by authorizing Oscar Brownell,
Joyce Risner and Edna Wilson to submit a written argument
in favor of the measure relating to Ordinance Number 1170.
In reponse to a question from the aUdience, the City Attorney
advised he would check into whether or not there is any
legal requirement as to the time an organization is formed
as it relates to submittal of arguments.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
10-22-84
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3425 - REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS
Resolution Number 3425 was presented to the Council entitled
"A RESOLUTIO~ OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS
FOR CITY MEASURES SUBMITTED AT MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS." By
unanimous consent, ,full reading of Resolution Number 3425
was waived. Risner moved, second by Clift, to adopt
Resolution Number 3425 as presented.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
RESOLUTION NUMBER 3426 - CITY ATTORNEY IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS
Resolution Number 3426 was presented to Council entitled
"A RESOLUITON OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SEAL BEACH,
CALIFORNIA, DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN
IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS." By unanimous consent, full reading
of Resolution Number 3426 was waived. Risner moved, second
by Wilson, to adopt Resolution Number 3426 as presented.
A member of the audience asked if the impartial analysis
would address the potential liability of the citizenry.
The City Attorney responded that an impartial analysis
is a brief statement that would address the effect on
existing law, or in this case how it would change existing
land use regulations for the Bixby property. Mr. Stepanicich
reported that a written opinion had been prepared and
submitted to the City Council and is a public record, which
addressed the liability question. He stated that under
existing law there are statutory immunities for legislative
actions which would make the City immune from liability.
He stated that the opinion also addressed the question
from the standpoint of if the law were to change in the
future or if the courts made a decision that limited
application of that law to the immunity of a City, the
question would then be whether the City acted reasonably
or not, and that in addressing the facts that the City
Council had considered in making this decision, it was
felt that the City had established a good record, that
it acted in a reasonable fashion, therefore would not be
held liable in a future case. The City Attorney stated
they could not provide a guarantee, nor had they said there
is no chance of liability, that the opinion stated that
considering existing law in California with regard to
immunities there was not a serious risk of liability to
the City. Mr. Stepanicich explained that in cases where
a city has been involved in construction or design of public
improvements or has custody or control of some public
facility, the ~aws have changed substantially in the last
few years as far ~s a city's 'exposure, however where a
city acts in a legislative capacity and adopts an ordinance
for a general plan, specific plan, zoning, etc., there
are no reported cases where a city has b~en held liable,
therefore this remains an area where the courts have
preserved a city's immunity.
Vote on adoption of Resolution 3426:
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
Risner moved, second by Wilson, to appropriate $21,000
unallocated reserve funds to the Election Account.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
I
I
10-22-84
There was a brief discussion relating to updating the City's
General Plan and establishing City guidelines for future
Specific Plans. The City Attorney acknowledged that
development of Specific Plan guidelines should commence
in the near future.
I
APPOINTMENT - SEAL BEACH CABLE TELEVISION FOUNDATION
Councilman Clift appointed Mr. Jay Covington to the Cable
Foundation from Councilmanic District Four for the term
of two years. Mayor Brownell seconded the motion.
AYES:
NOES:
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
I
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Brownell declared oral communications open.
Councilmember Wilson reported receipt of a letter from
Leonard Wilson, Marketing Manager, and Tom Gould, President,
Rossmoor Shopping Center, expressing concern regarding
revitalization of other business districts, and requesting
consideration of an entry sign at Bradbury Street and Seal
Beach Boulevard, a cost study for landscaped medians between
Bradbury and St. Cloud, and off-site directional signs
to the shopping area. Mrs. Wilson reported that the letter
had been answered and the request referred to the City
Engineer for cost estimates and a feasibility report.
Councilman Clift reported that a suggestion had been made
that a group be formed to welcome the new Navy families
that will be residing on the Naval Weapons Station commencing
in February 1985. Mr. Clift reported he had been asked
to participate on the committee. Mrs. Risner stated she
too would like to be involved in this program. In response
to Council, the City Manager reported that the resolution
honoring Steve Goodman will be presented to his family.
There were no other oral communications; Mayor Brownell
declared oral communications closed.
ADJOURNMENT
Grgas moved,
11:40 p.m.
AYES:
NOES:
second by Clift, to adjourn the meeting at
Brownell, Clift, Grgas, Risner, Wilson
None Motion carried
clerk of the
Clerk
Beach
Approved:
I
Attest: