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HomeMy WebLinkAboutE-01 Minutes of October 19'15CONSENT ITEM E-1 CITY OF AZUSA MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY REGULAR MEETING MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2015 – 6:30 P.M. The City Council of the City of Azusa met in regular session at the above date and time in the Azusa Auditorium located at 213 E. Foothill Boulevard, Azusa, CA 91702. Mayor Rocha called the meeting to order at 6:30 P.M. ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo. Councilmember Carrillo and Councilmember Macias arrived at 6:34 p.m. after roll call. PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ALSO PRESENT Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo. Staff Members: City Manager Butzlaff, City Attorney Martinez, Community Development Director Christiansen, Human Resources and Risk Management Director Ayala, Neighborhood Services Coordinator Quiroz, Administrative Technician Juarez. CLOSED SESSION The City Council recessed to closed session at 6:31 P.M. to discuss the following: 1.CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Pursuant to California Government Code, 54956.9(d)(4) Possible Initiation of Litigation - 1 Potential Case 2.CONFERENCE WITH REAL ESTATE NEGOTIATOR CITY OF AZUSA Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 54956.8 Address: 622 N. San Gabriel Avenue, Azusa CA, 91702 (APN 8611-004-913) Negotiating Party: Travis Ensling Agency Negotiator: Troy Butzlaff, City Manager; Kurt Christiansen, Director of Community & Economic Development Under Negotiation: Price & Terms of Payment for Lease of Property 3.CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL WORKER’S COMPENSATION CLAIM Pursuant to Gov. Code Section 54956.95 Name of Case: Bohorquez vs. City of Azusa The City Council reconvened at 7:31 P.M.; City Attorney Martinez announced the following regarding Closed Session: Item No. 1, Councilmember Carrillo did not participate due to a conflict of interest as he lives within 500 feet of the item being discussed, no reportable action taken; Item No. 2, Council provided direction to negotiators concerning the lease, no other reportable action; and Item No. 3, no reportable action. REGULAR MEETING Mayor Rocha called the meeting to order at 7:31 P.M. ROLL CALL: Roll call was taken by City Clerk Cornejo. PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Call to Order Roll Call Closed Session Anticipated Litigation Real Estate Negotiations Workers Comp Claim City Attorney Report Regular Mtg Call to Order Roll Call APPROVED CITY COUNCIL 1/5/2016 ALSO PRESENT Elected Officials: City Clerk Cornejo. Staff Members: City Manager Butzlaff, City Attorney Martinez, Community Development Director Christiansen, Police Chief Gonzalez, Finance Director Paragas, Utilities Director Morrow, Human Resources and Risk Management Director Ayala, Director of Recreation and Family Services Jacobs, Assistant Planner Ibanez, Senior Management Analyst Miller, Recreation Superintendent Gonzales, Storekeeper Alvarez, Recreation Supervisor Gonzales, Neighborhood Services Coordinator Quiroz, Administrative Technician Juarez. Pledge to the flag was led by Ms. Inez Gutierrez Invocation was given by Pastor Daniel Simonson, Christbridge Immanuel Church PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Mr. Art Morales thanked Mayor Pro-tem Alvarez and Councilmember Macias for their service to our Country. He mentioned the much needed rain from the recent rainfall; the lack of a cost of living increase for those on fixed incomes; the bond measures ($50 million and $90 Million) from Azusa Unified School District; and the upcoming AUSD board election on November 3, 2015. City Manager Butzlaff discussed the upcoming rainy season and announced that the City provides sand and sand bags at the City Yard, for no charge. He stated that APU students had filled more than 400 sand bags for distribution to the Ridgeview area. He encouraged the residents subject to flooding to pick up sand bags from the City Yard or the Fire Station. REPORTS, UPDATES, COUNCIL BUSINESS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS-STAFF City Manager Butzlaff introduced Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) Vice President of Business Development, Carrie Rogers, and Senior Regional Manager, Bob Machuca, who presented a plaque to the City of Azusa for being a “Most Business Friendly City Finalist.” The City of Azusa, along with four other cities were nominated for the award. Results will be announced at the November 12, 2015 Eddy Award’s ceremony. Ms. Carrie Rogers, LAEDC Vice President of Business Development recognized the City for their leadership and commitment to economic development and gave a brief description of the Eddy Awards, which recognize excellence in economic development leadership on behalf of businesses and government. The Eddy award honorees include Cal State Northridge, CBRE, and Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel. Large City Finalists were Bellflower, Carson, Lakewood, Palmdale, Pasadena, and Santa Clarita. Small City Finalists were Azusa, Commerce, El Segundo, Pico Rivera, and Vernon. She applauded Azusa’s business attraction programs. Mr. Bob Machuca, LAEDC Senior Regional Manager recognized the passion of the City of Azusa’s leadership stating that it is the epitome of a business friendly city. He thanked Economic and Community Development Director Kurt Christiansen, City Manager Troy Butzlaff, and Utility Programs Specialist Paul Reid for all of the assistance that they provide. He presented a plaque to the City on behalf of the LAEDC for being a “2015 Most Business Friendly City in Los Angeles County Award Finalist for a population of 67,000 or less.” Ms. Andrea Moreno, Los Angeles County First District Assistant Field Deputy/Caseworker commended the City for their nomination “Most Business Friendly City” and presented a congratulatory scroll on behalf of County Supervisor Hilda Solis. City Manager Butzlaff introduced Mr. Jason Farned, San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District Public Information Officer, who presented information about Mosquitos and the West Nile Virus, which is transmitted through birds. This year there have been 24 cases of the virus and 2 deaths in San Gabriel Valley; there is no vaccine or treatment available so bite prevention is important. He provided information about the Asian Tiger Mosquito which can potentially transmit the Chikungunya Virus and encouraged everyone to drain and dump all standing water. Mayor Pro-tem Alvarez thanked the Golden Days Committee for another successful year. Councilmember Macias thanked the Golden Days Committee and all those that attended the week’s events; thanked the LAEDC and Supervisor Solis’ office for the awards that were presented to the City and the City Manager and Staff for their hard work; and requested that staff replace the graphic on the South gateway entry monument near Arrow Hwy. as it is deteriorating. He gave his condolences for the passing of his friend, City of Azusa Assistant City Clerk, Juana Hernandez. He thanked her for her many years of hard work and everything she did for the City. PAGE TWO – 10/19/15 Flag Salute Invocation Public Part A. Morales Comments T. Butzlaff Comments Rprts/Update Presentation of Scroll SGV Mosquito & Vector Control Presentation E. Alvarez Comments U. Macias Comments Councilmember Gonzales expressed his sadness in the passing of Assistant City Clerk, Juana Hernandez, whom he considered to be a beautiful person and great friend, and would be missed. He also thanked the Golden Days Committee for all of the successful events and announced the Annual Trunk-or-Treat & Car Show at Memorial Park on Sunday, October 25 at 4 p.m. He reminded everyone to drive safely on Halloween. Councilmember Carrillo gave his condolences in the passing of Assistant City Clerk, Juana Hernandez, stating that she was the epitome of what a public servant is and that she had served the City diligently, proudly and professionally. His thoughts and prayers go out to her family. He also thanked the Golden Days Committee for a fantastic week. Mayor Rocha announced that the meeting would be adjourned in memory of Assistant City Clerk, Juana Hernandez. She was a great friend to him and his wife and would be missed immensely. He also thanked the Golden Days Committee for a beautiful event and announced the following: Gladstone Street Elementary School Trunk or Treat on Friday, October 23 from 5:00-7:00 pm; Azusa Cares Workshop on Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; and requested that interested volunteers for a backyard cleanup for a Vietnam veteran contact him. He asked that everyone keep service men and women in their daily prayers. City Manager Butzlaff announced the City’s upcoming one day per week watering schedule and introduced Utilities Director George Morrow to provide further information. Utilities Director Morrow announced that one day a week watering would begin in November, since turf needs less water during the cooler periods and there is more intermittent rainfall. He commended residents on their outstanding job as they had conserved 25% since June. He also announced a rebate of $75 per rain barrel. SCHEDULED ITEMS PUBLIC HEARING - ADOPT ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 14 OF THE AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO EXPEDITED PERMITTING PROCEDURES FOR SMALL RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP SOLAR SYSTEMS. This Ordinance does not commit the City to any action that may have a significant effect on the environment. As a result, such action does not constitute a project subject to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen presented the item stating that the Ordinance was introduced for first reading at the meeting of September 21, 2015 and that it was a State of California mandate that the City must implement. Mayor Rocha declared the Public Hearing open; City Clerk Cornejo announced that a notice of the Public Hearing had been published on October 2and October 9, 2015. Mr. Art Morales addressed the public hearing to request information regarding the guidelines for the installation of solar panels and who the public should contact. City Manager Butzlaff responded to Mr. Morales’ comments stating that the City was not advocating solar panels, but making it easier for those residents that wish to install them, by implementing a process that expedites the permits. He suggested that those individuals, who are interested in the HERO and PACE program, contact Azusa Light & Water for more details. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen also stated that those who were interested in the process were welcome to go to the Building Department to obtain a list of companies that have previously done work in the City. Moved by Councilmember Carrillo seconded by Councilmember Gonzales to close the hearing by the following vote: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Councilmember Carrillo offered an Ordinance entitled: Moved by Councilmember Carrillo seconded by Councilmember Gonzales to waive further reading, and adopt Ordinance No.2015-O10, an Ordinance of the City of Azusa adding Section 14-11 to the Azusa Municipal Code relating to the expedited permitting procedures for Small Residential Rooftop Solar Systems by the following vote of the Council: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE PAGE THREE – 10/19/15 R. Gonzales Comments A. Carrillo Comments J. Rocha Comments T. Butzlaff Comments G. Morrow Comments Scheduled Items Public Hearing, Permitting Procedures for Small Rooftop Solar Systems Hearing Open A. Morales Comments T. Butzlaff Comments K. Christiansen Comments Close Hearing Ord. 2015-O10 PUBLIC HEARING – APPROVAL OF AZUSA TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT SPECIFIC PLAN, ZONE CHANGE, AND CERTIFICATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT. City Attorney Martinez advised that in order to comply with State Conflict of Interests rules, Staff would typically conduct a brief analysis of the proximity of real property interests, business interests and in some cases, income interests for projects. Under those rules, a City Councilmember cannot participate in a pending matter if there is a reasonably foreseeable material financial effect on their financial interests and is presumed to have a conflict of interest if he owns residential property within 500 feet of the boundaries of the project. The project included a specific plan document that has fixed boundaries, as well as the potential two-way traffic conversion in a specific area of Azusa and San Gabriel Avenues. When the analysis of real property interests was conducted and applied to this project, it was determined that three (3) of the Councilmembers had real property interests within 500 feet of the project boundaries, Councilmember Carrillo – personal residence, Councilmember Gonzales – personal residence, and Mayor Pro-tem Alvarez – personal residence and investment property, and were presumed to be conflicts of interest. Due to the three (3) Councilmembers’ conflicts of interest, there was a lack of quorum and one (1) Councilmember was to be requalified in accordance with Conflict of Interests rules. The rules required that a random process be conducted in order for one (1) Councilmember to be requalified, and that member would remain consistent throughout the matter. The random process selected was for each of the three (3) Councilmembers to select a card from a shuffled deck, and the Councilmember with the highest card would be requalified and the other two (2) Councilmembers would remain conflicted and would, therefore, exit the Auditorium while the item was being decided. Administrative Technician Annette Juarez was asked to shuffle a deck of cards and City Clerk Jeffrey Lawrence Cornejo, Jr. had each of the three (3) conflicted Councilmembers select a card. Councilmember Carrillo selected the highest card and remained on the dais as a legal participant. Councilmember Gonzales and Mayor Pro-Tem Alvarez exited the Auditorium. Economic and Community Development Director Kurt Christiansen introduced the item and current project manager, Assistant Planner Edson Ibanez. Assistant Planner Ibanez provided an overview of the project which began in February 2013 when the City was awarded a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) planning grant from Metro for the studying and planning of TOD around the Downtown and Citrus Gold Line stations, which includes areas within a 0.25 mile radius around the stations. He also provided the Specific Plan boundaries of 9th Street to the north, Angeleno Avenue to the west, 5th and 6th Streets to the south, and Citrus Avenue to the east. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen introduced Ms. Jami Williams, RRM Design Group, Miguel Nunez, AICP, Fehr & Peers, and Jessica Kirchner Flores, Impact Sciences, Inc. Ms. Jami Williams, RRM Design Group presented the TOD Specific Plan background, overview of the content and the next steps. She provided a brief background of the Specific Plan area, which has a ten minute walking radius, and stated that it consists of guidelines and standards that provide direction for future development. She further provided the Specific Plan objectives, which consist of a focus on transit-oriented development opportunities, maximizing community benefit from city owned properties, creation of district-specific development standards, expansion of services and community amenities, transit-supportive land uses, establishment of pedestrian linkages to and from the future Gold Line Stations, opportunities for future market-driven revitalization and investment, strategies for public-private partnerships with business and community stakeholders, enhancement of the identity and architectural quality of the Specific Plan Area, integration of sustainable and healthy community guidelines; and protection and enhancement of historic resources. An impartial market-demand analysis was done to determine what could happen over the term of the Specific Plan. The study concluded that there was an existing “leakage” of demand. The Gold Line provides a great opportunity to capture some of that “leakage” back. A Community Workshop was conducted and input was received. The Specific Plan was divided into seven (7) districts: Gold Line District, Downtown District, Downtown Expansion District, Route 66 District, Transition District, Civic District, and an area of no change. Each district has development standards, which include building form standards such as setbacks, location, articulation, ground floor uses, residential open space and window glazing. The vision for the Gold Line District is to embrace the transit center, and should allow for mixed-use opportunities that link the transit areas to the Downtown. The area emphasizes the historic character of Azusa Avenue and new development would be appropriately scaled. The Development Standards include a 15 foot maximum placement from the sidewalk, a minimum building height of 25 feet and a maximum building height of 60 feet with wall and roofline variations. The Downtown Expansion District would extend and complement the Downtown District, which would include new residential housing opportunities and neighborhood oriented services. The Development Standards include a building placement of a maximum 15 feet from the back of the sidewalk, a building massing minimum of 25 feet and maximum of 45 feet with wall and roofline variation. The Civic District maintains civic character and community oriented uses, proposes improvements to Veteran’s Freedom Park and PAGE FOUR – 10/19/15 Public Hearing, TOD Specific Plan City Attorney Comments Councilmember Requalification Item Introduced E. Ibanez Comments K. Christiansen Comments Presentation of Specific Plan enhances pedestrian connectivity. The existing city standards would be maintained. The Transition District would remain residentially oriented, allows for the repurposing of existing single-family residences, and incentivizes a Specialty Market/Food Hall at the historic packing house. The Development Standards include a 10 foot minimum setback and a 35 foot maximum height with wall and roofline variation. The Route 66 District would embrace and highlight the Route 66 culture with vibrant and colorful architectural elements and streetscape/mobility improvements. The Development Standards would include limited curb-cuts, a 15 foot minimum building setback and 20 foot parking setback, a Route 66 theme Public Art Incentive, a 20 foot minimum building height, 40 foot maximum building height and a 50 foot maximum for a hotel. Streetscape/Mobility recommendations consist of unified streetscape themes, multi-modal infrastructure, enhanced multi-modal infrastructure and improved pedestrian safety and environment. Mr. Miguel Nunez, AICP, Fehr & Peers presented the mobility and parking aspect of the Specific Plan, stating that it focused on pedestrian access and improvements, street improvements, bicycle access and improvements, and public/private transit. The Specific Plan proposed the conversion of Azusa Avenue and San Gabriel Avenue into two-way traffic, which would provide the following benefits: improved access to local businesses, improved safety on San Gabriel Avenue, enhanced streetscape, installation of bike lanes, and enhanced pedestrian safety. He presented the Parking District Map, which would maximize the value of parking as it is an underutilized asset. Data was collected on approximately 24 off-street parking lots and 52 on-street segments from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on a typical weekday to determine the percentage of utilization. The study showed that less than 40% of parking spaces were occupied during the busiest time of day. It was suggested that the following be used to manage demand: wayfinding and signage, assigned employee parking, shared parking, time limits & restrictions, and modified parking requirements. Based on the data collected, it was recommended that the City consider a slight reduction in parking ratios and complete a periodic assessment every two years to see if the need had changed. Ms. Jessica Kirchner Flores, Impact Sciences, Inc. presented the Environmental Impact Report (EIR), stating that the following topics studied in the EIR had less than significant impacts without mitigation: Aesthetics, Cultural Resources, Energy, Geology and Soils, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Hydrology and Water Quality, Land Use and Planning, Noise, Population, Housing and Employment, Public Services (Fire, Police, Schools, Library), Recreation, Traffic and Circulation, and Utilities (Electricity, Natural Gas, Water Supply, Wastewater, Solid Waste). It was found that mitigation measures were necessary for the following areas: Aesthetics (historic resources), Cultural Resources (historic/archeological/paleontological), Geology (Alquist- Priolo zone/soils), Hazardous Materials (accidental release/emergency response), Noise and Vibration (construction), Public Services (fire/police), and Traffic. The EIR identified a significant and unavoidable impact related to operational air quality. Even with mitigation, this impact could not be reduced to less than significant. Mitigation Measure AQ-1 was included to help mitigate the environmental impact. With its implementation, operational emissions would be substantially reduced; however; the specific reductions could notbe fully or accurately calculated. Operational air quality impacts would remain significant and unavoidable and the City Council would be required to adopt a Statement of Overriding Considerations to justify Project approval despite significant unavoidable impacts. The following alternatives were evaluated in the EIR: 1) No project, 2) Reduced Residential Growth Alternative, 3) San Gabriel Avenue would be configured with one northbound and one southbound lane and 4) San Gabriel Avenue would be configured with one northbound and two southbound lanes. None of the alternatives would reduce the air quality impact associated with the Project. Alternative 2 would incrementally reduce impacts related to public services and finite resources. No substantial changes were required to the draft EIR that would necessitate recirculation. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen stated that an estimated 2,800 notices had been sent out to the community. There are approximately 1,700 parcels within the specific plan boundary. The additional notices were sent to those that were within 300 feet of Azusa Avenue or San Gabriel Avenue because they could be impacted should the streets be converted to two-way traffic. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen and City Manager Butzlaff responded to questions posed by Councilmember Macias stating that the Specific Plan was proposing a five (5) story maximum building height in the Gold Line District and a four (4) story building height maximum with a setback after the third story in the Downtown District. The Council has the option to set a maximum height and require that any projects with heights above the maximum be brought before the Council for their review and consideration. Discussion ensued regarding building mass, building height maximums, and height variations in the Downtown and Gold Line Districts. There were some concerns about the building heights. It was suggested that the Council set a lower height standard and require that any building height, above that standard, be approved by the City Council. It was clarified that the City does not have the right to eminent domain. Mr. Miguel Nunez responded to questions posed by Councilmember Macias, stating that the proposed two-way street conversion would alter San Gabriel Avenue to have one northbound lane, one southbound lane, parking on both sides of the street, a turn lane in the middle, and a 5-foot bicycle lane with a 3-foot buffer on both sides. PAGE FIVE – 10/19/15 Presentation of EIR K. Christiansen Comments Discussion Discussion ensued regarding the proposed bicycle lanes. There were concerns about bicyclist safety should the buffer be placed between the street and the bicycle lane, as opposed to placing it between the bicycle lane and the parked vehicles. The location of the bicycle lane buffer is flexible and at the discretion of the City Council. Mr. Miguel Nunez responded to questions posed by Councilmember Macias, stating that bicycle lanes were proposed on San Gabriel Avenue instead of Foothill Boulevard due to feasibility. There may be a traffic impact on Foothill Boulevard, should a lane be converted to bicycle lanes. It was noted that the focus of the Specific Plan was to bring access to the Downtown through north and south circulation from Sierra Madre Boulevard to 2nd Street. Ms. Jami Williams addressed concerns about the proposed bicycle lanes, stating that there was an opportunity to create a lateral downtown environment on San Gabriel Avenue, similar to Azusa Avenue. The limiting of the road would maintain a good flow of traffic and provide a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen further addressed concerns about the proposed bicycle lanes, stating that the most logical area for the bicycle lane was on San Gabriel Avenue, as the downtown area of Azusa Avenue does not have the space to allow for an additional lane to be added. Councilmember Macias preferred that the bicycle lanes be created on Foothill Boulevard in order to connect the colleges to the Downtown District, as it seems that there would be a higher demand than on San Gabriel Boulevard. Mayor Rocha also addressed his concerns for resident safety and requested that enough lighting be placed in the rear and alcoves of buildings. Mayor Rocha declared the Public Hearing open; City Clerk Cornejo announced that a notice of the Public Hearing had been published on October 9, 2015. PUBLIC COMMENT Mr. Nick Rosales spoke as a representative of local business owners in the downtown area. He stated that many of them were not able to provide their feedback and requested that a vote be postponed and the item revisited to allow for local business owner feedback. Mr. Bruce Knoles spoke as a small business owner, stating that in order for the community to prosper; the heights of the buildings should be altered to attract businesses that would enable prosperity. Mr. Art Morales stressed the importance of the issues that had been brought up by the Council, and stated that the decision should be postponed to another meeting to allow community input. He further addressed the proposed bicycle lanes and cyclist safety. Mr. Jorge Rosales stated that he agreed with Councilmember Macias’ concerns regarding the proposed building heights. He expressed concerns about the fire department’s capability to fight a fire in a building of that proposed height; the potential increase of traffic should Azusa Avenue be converted to two-way traffic; the limited accessibility to Target due to two-way traffic; and requested that Azusa Avenue traffic flow be reassessed. Ms. Angela Duran expressed concerns about traffic safety on Dalton Avenue. She also inquired about the diversion of traffic onto Dalton Avenue and the effect of air quality on local schools. She requested that the Council reconsider the item and postpone the vote. Mr. Saul Morales expressed concerns with the potential increase in noise between Azusa and San Gabriel Avenues should the streets be converted to two-way traffic. City Manager Butzlaff suggested that the hearing be left open and continued to a later date should the Council wish to obtain further information from staff. He addressed the concerns made by Mr. Nick Rosales stating that to date, the City Council had two study sessions on the Specific Plan, the Planning Commission had both a study session and a public hearing, and that notices had been mailed to City residents, an ad had been published in the newspaper, on the City’s website and on social media. The City did an extensive job in getting the information to the public. Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen addressed the comments regarding bicycle lanes, noting that the Specific Plan recommendation was for a 20 year build out and the final configurations would be brought back to the Council for their approval. He stated that Staff would look into the ability to put bicycle lanes in other locations, and that Metro required the City to include the bicycle component; however, it was up to Council’s discretion on how they would like this done. PAGE SIX – 10/19/15 K. Christiansen Comments Discussion Open Hearing Pub. Comment N. Rosales Comments B. Knoles Comments A. Morales Comments J. Rosales Comments A. Duran Comments S. Morales Comments T. Butzlaff Comments K. Christiansen Comments In response to Ms. Duran’s concerns, Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen and City Manager Butzlaff stated that the Specific Plan does not go north of 9th Street, so there was no consideration of traffic mobility in that area, and it did not include the diversion of traffic on any particular street. In response to Mr. Morales’ noise concerns, there should not be an increase in noise should San Gabriel Avenue be converted, as there would be no additional traffic. Acting Fire Chief Jim Enriquez addressed the concerns about the Fire Department’s capability to handle a fire in buildings of the proposed heights. He stated that there are two fire stations in Azusa and first alarm trucks are available. There is a 100 foot aerial ladder truck in Baldwin Park, which has the ability to reach 75 feet, and could get to Azusa in 5-7 minutes. There is a 75 foot aerial ladder truck, which can reach a 50-60 foot building, in Covina. Should a fire expand the first alarm, both San Dimas and El Monte have 100 foot aerial ladder trucks as well. He assured the Council that buildings of the proposed heights could be adequately taken care of. In response to Mr. Rosales’ comments regarding the increase of bus traffic on Azusa Avenue, Economic and Community Development Director Christiansen and City Manager Butzlaff advised that buses would not be running constantly, as they would be on a scheduled route with peak times in the morning and afternoon. Bus traffic volume would significantly drop during the off-peak hours, nights, and weekends. Queuing lanes on both the east and west sides of the parking structures would be available for buses to let passengers on and off, as well as a dedicated lane on the easterly side of the parking structure where buses could exit. City Manager Butzlaff provided the following options to the Council regarding their concerns with the proposed building heights: lower the proposed building heights, add a discretionary process to approve height over a certain threshold, which would allow the Council to review on a case-by-case basis to confirm that the additional height is justified, or leave the height limits as-is and amend them later if needed. Regarding the conversion of San Gabriel Avenue and the bicycle lanes, Council had the option to add notations to the Specific Plan stating that it was conceptual and subject to future improvement plans or remove it all together. Although, the second option may be problematic as the project was funded by Metro for the purpose of mobility. The Council had the option to continue the item for as much time as they wish to solicit additional public input if needed. Discussion regarding the proposed building height ensued, as there were concerns with parking, maintenance and upkeep; the importance of a well-built project to allow for longevity; the potential walkability of Azusa; the increase in bicycling trend; and the difference in trends between generations. The Specific Plan contains many great things from a professional standpoint and the consultants were thanked for their work. There was further discussion regarding the continuance of the public hearing to allow for more questions to be answered as one Councilmember was unable to participate in any previous discussion prior to being requalified as a legal participant. It was recommended that the public hearing be continued to a future date to allow for the Councilmember to receive answers to his questions. Moved by Councilmember Macias seconded by Councilmember Carrillo to continue the hearing to the regular meeting of November 2, 2015 by the following vote of the Council: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: CARRILLO, MACIAS, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, ALVAREZ FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE ADDING ARTICLE XI TO CHAPTER 62 OF THE AZUSA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO PROHIBITING SMOKING, CAMPING, AND THE STORAGE OF PERSONAL PROPERTY IN OR UPON PUBLIC PROPERTY OF THE CITY OF AZUSA. Police Chief Sam Gonzalez introduced the item, stating that the proposed ordinance would address quality of life issues within the City, specifically City parks and facilities. The proposed ordinance includes three prohibitions: smoking, camping and storage of personal property in or on public property within the City. In response to an inquiry made by Mayor Pro Tem Alvarez, Staff advised that Section 62-502 of the proposed ordinance gave the City the ability to designate smoking areas in the future should the Council wish to do so. It was noted that there are 176 California cities that have banned smoking in their parks, and it is unknown how many cities designated a specific smoking area within their parks. Individuals who wish to smoke may do so in areas outside of the park without causing impacts upon others. Councilmember Macias expressed his support of the smoking ban, Councilmember Carrillo expressed his appreciation of the proposed ordinance and Councilmember Gonzales thanked staff for bringing the proposed ordinance forward. PAGE SEVEN – 10/19/15 K. Christiansen and T. Butzlaff Comments Acting Fire Chief Comments K. Christiansen and T. Butzlaff Comments T. Butzlaff Comments Discussion Continue Hearing Quality of Life Ordinance, First Reading In response to inquiries made by Councilmember Macias and Mayor Pro-tem Alvarez, Police Chief Gonzalez advised that Section 62-501 of the proposed ordinance provides the clear definition of camping to allow for proper enforcement. Moved by Councilmember Gonzales, seconded by Councilmember Carrillo, to waive further reading, read by title only, and introduce Ordinance No. 2015-O12, an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Azusa adding Article XI to Chapter 62 of the Azusa Municipal Code relating to the prohibition of smoking, camping, and the storage of personal property in or upon public property of the City of Azusa, by the following vote of the Council: YES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE CONSENT CALENDAR: Moved by Councilmember Gonzales, seconded by Councilmember Carrillo, to approve Consent Calendar Items D-1 to D-9, by the following vote of the Council: YES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: ROCHA (abstained from item D-1 only) 1. The minutes of the special meeting of September 14, 2015 and the Regular Meeting of September 21, 2015 were approved as written. 2. Resolution No. 2015-C57 was adopted and entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AND SPECIFYING THE FUNDS OUT OF WHICH THE SAME ARE TO BE PAID. 3. The Human Resources Action Items, in accordance with the City of Azusa Civil Service Rules and applicable Memorandum of Understanding(s), were approved as follows: Merit Increase and or Regular Appointments: T. Patlogar, J. Palacios Promotion: M. Thompson Separation: D. Crapo 4. The contract with Bashful Butler for catering services at the Azusa Woman’s Club was amended and extended for one (1) additional year. 5. The Supplemental Amended Cost Sharing and Maintenance Agreement between the City of Azusa and the City of Glendora for the extension of Citrus Avenue and related improvements and the Memorandum of Understanding MOU between the City of Azusa and the City of Glendora for the transfer of Rule 20A Funds were approved. 6. The list of agreements executed by the City Manager from August 21, 2015 to September 30, 2015 were received and filed. 7. The competitive bidding was waived and a purchase contract with Wondries Fleet Group of Alhambra, California for the purchase of two (2) 2016 Ford Police Interceptor SUV vehicles in an amount not to exceed $59,385.44 was approved. 8. The bid for landscape and irrigation maintenance services was accepted and a Landscape and Irrigation Maintenance Contract with ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance for a three-year term, with two one-year extension options, in the amount of $294,000 per year was approved. 9. The formal bidding requirements for the Senior Center Roof Repairs Project were waived and the City Manager was authorized to enter into a contract with Hernandez Roofing for the Senior Center Roof Repairs Project. SUCCESSOR AGENCY ITEMS Councilmember Gonzales offered the following Resolutions entitled: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF WARRANTS BY THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY. RESOLUTION NO. 2015-R23 A RESOLUTION OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY OF THE FORMER REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF AZUSA ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS TO BE PAID OUT OF SUCCESSOR AGENCY FUNDS Moved by Councilmember Gonzales, seconded by Councilmember Macias, to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2015-R23 by the following vote of the Council: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: GONZALES, CARRILLO, MACIAS, ALVAREZ, ROCHA NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE PAGE EIGHT – 10/19/15 Ordinance No. 2015-O12 Consent Calendar Minutes Reso 2015-C57 Warrants H.R. Action Item Contract, Bashful Butler MOU, City of Glendora City Manager Executed Agmts Contract, Wondries Fleet Group Contract, ValleyCrest Landcape Contract, Hernandez Roofing Successor Agency Resolution No. 2015-R23 ADJOURNMENT: It was consensus of the City Council to adjourn the meeting in memory of Ms. Juana V. Hernandez, Assistant City Clerk and longtime employee of the City of Azusa. TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 11:39 P.M. _________________________________ CITY CLERK NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2015-C58 (City) NEXT ORDINANCE NO. 2015-O13 NEXT RESOLUTION NO. 2015-R24 (Former Redevelopment Agency) NEXT MEETINGS: November 2, 2015 and November 16, 2015 Adjournment PAGE NINE – 10/19/15