HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - May 16, 1955 - CC (2)CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
The City Council of the City of Azusa met in regular
session at the above time and place.
The meeting opened with the Flag Salute. Flag Salute
Invocation was offered by Rev. Paroulek. Invocation
Roll Call: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Johnson,
Romero, Memmesheimer
City Attorney, City Engineer.,
City Clerk
Mayor Memmesheimer asked if there were any corrections
to be made in the Minutes of the Meeting of May 2, Corrections
1955.
Councilman Johnson stated that on Page49, in the motion
regarding the air conditioning of the City Hall, the
word "appurtenant" should be corrected to read "pertinent".
Also, on Page 57 "Easterly District No. 5" should be
corrected to read "EasterlAnnexation District No. 5",
also on page 57 the words 'the Mayor" should be inserted
after "February 15, 1955". Councilman Johnson noted
that on Page 75, lst paragraph, the vote on the motion
was missing. This should be inserted as follows:
"Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson, Romero
NOES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Memmesheimer
ABSENT: None"
As there were no other corrections to be made, the Mayor
announced the Minutes of the Meeting of May 2, 1955,
will stand approved as corrected.
Councilman Johnson stated it was her opinion that until
the City Attorney had replied to her questions regarding
his association with local companies, Council should not
proceed with any other business which might require his
legal opinion.
Upon the advice of the City Attorney that it would be
legal to proceed with the opening of the bids received
for construction of sanitary sewers, the Mayor asked
for a motion -for the opening of these bids.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ort no, that the bids on Project #123 for construction
of Sanitary Sewers be opened and publicly declared.
Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilman: Johnson
ABSENT: None
City Clerk announced that he had received six bids in
answer to the Notice Inviting Bids for the construction
of Sanitary Sewers in portions of Gladstone and Paramount
Streets, Aspan, Virginia, and Vernon Avenues, Project
#123.
Bids were received from the following Companies:
COMPANY TOTAL AMOUNT OF BID
Bosko & Bradarich Co. $48,782.00
Pico, Calif.
Chas. L. Burch & Sons 47,768.00
El Monte, Calif.
Burke -Howard 65,145.00
El Monte, Calif.
Statement from
Councilman
Johnson
Bids opened
Sewer Project
#123
79
T
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
COMPANY TOTAL AMOUNT OF BID
Martin Kordick $ 53,399.34
Arcadia, Calif.
A. R. Milosevich & Company 55,486.35
Arcadia, Calif.
The Stanfield Co., Inc. 69,641.42
Pomona, Calif.
Each bid was accompanied by Bidder's Bond in the amount
of 10% of the bid submitted.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno that these bids be referred to the City
Engineer, City Attorney, Supt, of Public Works,
and Chairman of Public Works for study 2tnd report
back to Council.
Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Romero,
Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilman: Johnson
ABSENT: None
Mayor Memmesheimer announced that this was the time
and place set for the hearing of protests in regard
to Northerly Annexation No. 6, as advertised on
April 14, and 21, 1955.
The Mayor asked if there were any written protests
received in the Office of the City Clerk. The
City Clerk stated there were no written protests
received in his office. The Mayor then asked if
there were any persons present in the audience who
wished to make protest to this Northerly Annexation.
No one came forward. There being no protests, oral
or written, the Mayor then asked for a motion to
close the hearing.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno, and unanimously carried that the hearing on
Northerly Annexation No. 6 be closed.
Councilman Ortuno offered for its first reading the
Ordinance entitled:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
AZUSA, LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING
THE ANNEXATION OF CERTAIN UNINHABITED TERRITORY
DESIGNATED "NORTHERLY ANNEXATION NO. 6" TO THE CITY
OF AZUSA."
The City Attorney then read Ordinance No. 484 in full.
The Mayor announced the second reading of this
Ordinance will be held in these Council Chambers
at the next regular meeting of Council on June 'o, 1955.
Planning,Commission submitted a recommendation to
City Council at the meeting of May 2, 1955, granting
a variance to San Gabriel Properties Inc., Ben Krems,
President, from C-1 to C-3 for the purpose of operating
a pet shop at 626 East 8th Street. It was the opinion
of the Council that the Variance should be applied for
by the operator of the business. City Clerk stated
that at the Planning Commission Meeting of May 2nd
City Attorney ruled that the owner of the property was
the one who should apply for the variance. City
Attorney stated it was his opinion that it would only
be fair to reconsider the vote taken at the last
Council Meeting on this question, due to his error
on the ruling as to the proper applicant. City
81
7:30 P.M.
Bids Referred to
Committee for
study.
Public Hearing on
Northerly Annexa-
tion No. 6.
First Reading of
Ordinance No. 484
"Northerly Annexa-
tion No. 6".
Variance for Pet
Shop at Azusa
Square granted
ca
'83
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
Attorney also advised that this variance could not
be limited to a period of time, but it could be
limited to a particular line of business.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that the Council
reconsider the vote by which the variance for the
Pet Shop at..626 E. 8th Street was tabled.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that a variance be
granted to San Gabriel Properties, Inc, for the
purpose of operating a Pet Shop at 626 E. 8th St.
Azusa, and the City Attorney to draw resolution accordingly.
The request for variance by Ben F. Irvin for change
of zoning from R-1 to C-3 for the purpose of operating
an upholstery business at 235 N. San Gabriel Avenue
was again brought before Council. This matter had
been tabled at the last Council meeting. Mr. Irvin
appeared before Council to report that his building
was now ready for the color coat, that he had made
all necessary repairs, and had -it checked over by the
Building Inspector and as far as he knew everything
now was in order. City Engineer stated he had re-
ceived a report from the Building Inspector and it was
the same as Mr. Irvin had reported.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that the matter be
raised from the table.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that a variance be
granted Ben F. Irvin changing the zoning from R-1 to
C-3 of property at 235 N. San Gabriel Avenue for the
purpose of maintaining an upholstery business, and
City Attorney to draw up resolution accordingly.
The Planning Commission recommended the request for
variance be granted to Mr. Leo LaPorte for a zone
change from R-1 to C-3 for property at 965 W. Fifth
Street for the purpose of making drapes and selling
drapes and drape material. It was brought out in
discussion that adjacent properties are zoned for
business.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that variance be
granted to Mr. Leo LaPorte for a zone change from R-1
to C-3 for froperty located at 965 W. Fifth Street,
Azusa, for the purpose of making drapes, and selling
drapes and drape materials, and City Attorney to draw
Resolutions accordingly.
Fire Chief Marlowe Madison submitted to Council a re-
port regarding the issuing of special use permits to
various companies where dangerous chemicals are to be
used. He stated that in allowing plants with a high
fire hazard rating within the City limits, it was
quite possible this might keep plants of a more desir-
able nature from coming to our industrial area. He
also stated that the Norac Company certainly shows a
willingness to co-operate with the Fire Department in
every respect, and if it were the desire of the Council
to allow this type of :industry within our industrial
area he would approve their request for a special use
permit subject to all the restrictions of the Fire
Department.
Mr. McClaskey again appeared before Council stating
that they had selected this site for their plant as
it was near the same type of business and they have
purdhased 1.4 acres so that they would have plenty
of room to space their buildings far enough apart for
greater safety, and with room for expansion later on.
Variance for
Upholstery Shop
at 235 N. San
Gabriel granted
Variance for making
and selling drapes
at 965 w. 5th St.
granted.
Fire Chief's
Report -- Norac
Company
IT,
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
He admitted that some of their chemicals were a fire
hazard, but also stated that their ,crater supply was
adequate.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Johnson and unanimously carried that this matter be
tabled to the next Council meeting pending further
information from Mr. McCloskey and further investi-
gation by Fire Chief.
Planning Commission submitted to Council their Resolu-
tion No. 4 recommending an emergency measure, a
temporary Interim Zoning Ordinance prohibiting any
use in said zones which may be detrimental to the
public safety, health and welfare, and fixing a
minimum size of lots in said zones. This Ordinance
would be replaced later by a permanent Ordinance
fixing the lot size of lots in said zones and setting
forth the uses to which property therein may be put.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that the recommendation
of the Planning Commission for an Interim Ordinance
be accepted and City Attorney prepare an emergency
Ordinance establishing minimum lot sizes for M-1 and
M-2 zones.
Councilman Ortuno offered the following Resolution
entitled:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA,
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, GRANTING PETITION OF
BEN F. IRVIN, OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 235 NORTH SAN
GABRIEL AVENUE FROM ZONE R-1 to C-3 FOR TIT, PURPOSE
OF CONDUCTING UPHOLSTERY BUSINESS."
Councilman Ortuno moved its adoption, seconded by
Councilman Romero. This Resolution passed and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Councilman: Fawcett, Ortuno, Johnson, Romero,
Memmesheimer
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
and numbered Resolution No. 3213
Letter was submitted by the Personnel Board reporting
that City Engineer Williamson had requested that their
Board abandon further consideration of the establish-
ment of a City garage until such time as it should be
referred to the Board by the City Council.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Johnson and unanimously carried that this letter be
filed.
Letter was submitted by Personnel Board stating that
the term of office being filled by Mr. Hickory S.
Jackson on the Personnel Board expired May 15, 1955.
Letter was also submitted from City Clerk recommending
that the expiration date of the members of the various
Boards be as of June 30th of the year in which their
appointment e;cpires.
Mayor Memmesheimer recommended the reappointment of
Hickory S. Jackson to the Personnel Board for a term
of three years.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Romero that the recommendation of the Mayor be accepted
and Hickory S. Jackson be reappointed to the Personnel
Board for a three year period, and the City Attorney to
draw Resolution accordingly.
7:30 P.M.
Interim Zoning
Ordinance to be
prepared.
Resolution No.3213
Variance for
Upholstery
Business.
Letter regarding
establishment of
City garage --
filed.
Hickory- S. Jackson
reappointed to
Personnel Board.
a
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Johnson
ABSENT: None
The Personnel Board submitted a letter to Council
containing excerpts from the minutes of their meet-
ing of May 9, 1955, regarding the motion.made recom-
mending Mr. Perry Scott, Chief Accounting Officer
be advanced to second step of his pay schedule.
Letter of recommendation on the abilities of Mr.
Scott was also submitted to Council from Councilman
Johnson.
Moved by Councilman Romero and seconded by Council-
man Ortuno that the practical job incident involving
the Chief Accounting Officer and certain employees
from the Engineering and Park and Recreation Depts.
be stricken from the records and no further reference
to the incident be made. Motion passed by the follow-
ing vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilman Johnson
ABSENT: None
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett that Perry Scott, Chief Accounting Officer,
be placed on permanent status as of June 1, 1955,
and City Attorney to draw Resolution accordingly.
Motion failed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson
NOES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
ABSENT: None.
67
7:30 P.M.
Report from
Personnel Board
regarding Advance
of Chief Account-
ing Officer
Councilman Romero stated it was his opinion that the
position of Chief Accounting Officer should be abolished,
and was advised by the City Attorney that this could Proposal to abolish
only be done by Ordinance as the position was estab- position of Chief
lished by Ordinance. Further discussion disclosed Accounting Officer
that considerable agitation had recently been evident
in the various departments of the City Hall with re-
gard to the procedure for setting up the new account-
ing system.
Councilman Johnson stated that budget control and
inventory control is necessary for conducting the
City business. The position of Chief Accounting
Officer was established by Ordinance No. 475 and
Mr. Scott having passed the examinations with the
highest score was offered and accepted this position
which necessitated his leaving his position with the
City of Napa.
Councilman Romero stated he would like to make a
motion at this time to abolish the position of Chief
Accounting Officer of the City of Azusa.
Councilman Romero offered for its first reading the
Ordinance entitled:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
AZUSA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA,
REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 475 OF SAID CITY OF AZUSA".
City Attorney then read Ordinance No. 485 in full.
The Mayor announced the second reading of this
Ordinance will be held in these Council Chambers
at the next regular meeting of Council on June 6,
1955.
First Reading
Ordinance No.
Repealing
Ordinance No.
475.
T
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
Councilman Fawcett stated that when he was elected to Better City
the City Council one of the issues was better City Accounting
accounting and he intends to continue campaigning for
better City accounting until this is accomplished.
Councilman Romero offered the following Resolution
entitled:
°A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA,
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA RESCINDING AND DECLARING
VOID RESOLUTION NO. ;109 OF THE CITY OF AZUSA AND
TERMINATING THE EMPLOYMENT OF PERRY W. SCOTT AS CHIEF
ACCOUNTING OFFICER, EFFECTIVE AS OF MAY 27, 1955."
Councilman Romero moved its adoption, seconded by Mayor
Memmesheimer. This Resolution was passed and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson
ABSENT: None
and numbered Resolution No. 3214.
Mayor Memmesheimer made a statement for the records
as follows:
Resolution ;`3214
Termination of
Chief Accounting
Officer.
°I feel that the decision on this matter is more important
than merely the disposition of the employment of any one
person. The elements are such it affects the entire set-up
of City government. At the time of the establishing of
the office of Chief Accountant of the City, I said that
while I could see the need of some modernization of our
accounting methods, I was doubtful of this particular
proposition, I also said I would give it a trial of
six months probationary period, and I have done so with
an open mind. The comments I have to make are without
prejudice against Mr. Scott personally insofar as his
professional potentials are concerned. However, I must
say, first, that I think we made a mistake by retaining
him at a salary in excess of many of the City employees.
Department Headsof many years service and of proven value
are still working for smaller salaries than that which
was awarded to Mr. Scott as a starting remuneration. I
am inclined to think this fact alone may have planted
in his mind the thought he was in a position of authority
over the City personnel. This tendency has. -been evident
in the manner in which Mr. Scott has worked on the
preparation of this year's departmental budgets. A
set of records designed to fit the needs of one depart-
ment, might well be impractical for use in other depart-
ments. In the preparation of budgets, which are so far
the only tangible product of Mr. Scott's half-year in
his office, he sets up an elaborate set of budget forms.
He worked out these forms himself without ever seeking
suggestions from department heads, and without attempt-
ing to adopt the forms to the varying needs of the
different departments. To my mind this method was
both arbitrary and unrealistic. It is an approach
which might be logical in a City Manager, but not in
an accountant. It should be remembered that an Accountant
in any business works as a subordinatt of the executive
who is responsible for operations as a whole. Actually
it has seemed to me that Mr,.Scott, whether consciously
or not, has been acting like a potential City Manager
intent on getting into that position by the back door.
I am in favor of efficiency, but you cannot develop
efficiency by creating discord in the ranks. We instructed
Department Heads to give their cooperation, but we also
had a right to expect a cooperative rather than a
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
dictatorial spirit. I feel it would be a mistake to
continue this unfortunate situation by freezing Mr. Scott
in this position under Civil Service. I think the
sensible thing to do is to dispense with his services
and then proceed to make other arrangements with regard
to our accounting problems on a more practical basis."
Mr. Scott then stated that the Council itself had
approved the budget forms that are currently in use,
form by form.
Mayor Memmesheimer suggested that, if it meets with
Council approval, the Personnel Board be requested to
set up a position of Bookkeeper -Auditor with the
assistance of the Kroeger firm, and obtain the services
of a man to set up a bookkeeping system to change the
present form from the cash basis to the accrual basis -
a person who has the ability of assisting in preparing
budgets, a person who is familiar with the National
Cash Register machine, and that the duties of this
bookkeeper -auditor, whoever may be appointed, cooperate
with the City Clerk in maintaining records as they are
required by the laws of the 6th class Cities, and
suggested as a starting salary around :435,00 per month
with the maximum salary to be not in excess of $540.00.
Councilman Johnson then stated she was resigning as
Chairman of Rinance.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Mayor Memme-
sheimer that the Personnel Board be authorized to set
up a position of Bookkeeper -Auditor at a starting
salary of $435.00 per month, and not to exceed $540.00
per month.
This motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson
ABSENT: None
Moved by Councilman Johnson that the statement of the
Mayor be stricken :from the records,
This Motion died for lack of a second.
Personnel Board again presented the matter of amend-
ments to the Civil Service Rules and Regulations
which had been tabled at the last meeting. It was
decided by Council that this matter should be left
tabled,
City Engineer presented a letter in regard to the
plans for air conditioning portions of the City Hall.
He also presented to Council copies of a letter from
Hinkston and Norcross, Consulting Engineers of Los
Angeles, who are specialists in the design of air
conditioning systems, explaining their proposal for
preliminary study of several alternate plans to
determine which would be the most economical in the
long run for the City, Upon completion of these
studies, the results would be referred back to the
City. -for decision and then the detailed plans and
specifications for the system adopted could be
prepared. It was the recommendation of the City
Engineer that this proposal be accepted.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded. by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that the recommenda-
tion of the City Engineer be accepted, and the proposal
for the engineering study of air conditioning for the
City Hall be accepted subject to inspection and O.K.
by City Attorney,
91
7:30 P.M.
Suggested position
of Bookkeeper -
Auditor
Johnson resigns as
Chairman of Finance
Position of Book-
keeper -Auditor
Authorized
Amendments to Civil
Service - tabled.
Air-conditioning of
City Hall engineer-
ing study authorize
92
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CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
City Engineer announced that the plans and specifica-
tions for Sewer Project:7124, were now ready. This
was for the construction of sanitary sewers, from
Sunset to Louise, and between First and Broadway.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that the City Clerk
be authorized to advertise for bids for construction
of sanitary sewers, Project #124, Sunset to Louise,
First to Broadway, bids to be opened June 3, 1955,
at 10:00 A.M. in the office of the City Clerk.
City Engineer presented a letter to Council stating
that the plans and specifications are now complete
for the changes and additions to the Paramount Pump-
ing Plant necessary to accommodate the new well.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that the City Clerk be
authorized to advertise for bids for changes and
additions to the Paramount Pumping Plant, bids to
be opened on June 3, 1955, in the office of the City
Clerk at 10:00 A.M.
City Engineer submitted letter recommending that the
Stanfield Company of Pomona, the low bidder, be awarded
the contract for the construction of sanitary sewers
in the Cerritos Park area., west of Pasadena Avenue,
Project #122. This letter was signed by the members
of the Committee appointed by Council to study the
bids received at the last Council meeting.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that the recommendation
of the Committee be accepted and the bid for construc-
tion of sewers be awarded to the lowest bidder,
Stanfield Company of Pomona, bid in the amount of
$39,576.14, and the Mayor be authorized to return bid
bonds or checks to the unsuccessful bidder.
7:30 P.M.
Project #124
Sanitary Sewer
Sunset to Louise
between First &
Broadway.
Paramount
Pumping Plant -
Changes and
additions
Stanfield Co. -
awarded Bid -
Sanitary Sewers
Project ,-;`122
It was announced that the item of approval of Map for Tract Map ;721404
Tract x}21404 and the request that the City purchase Deleted from
house in order to extend 12th Street had been deleted Agenda
from the agenda because of the fact there was some
question as to the ownership of some of that property.
City Engineer submitted letter requesting authorization
to hire two men for a period of approximately two weeks
in order to handle Clean-up !week more efficiently. It
was stated the rate of parr would probably be $1.50 per
hour.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that City Engineer be
authorized to hire two additional men for two weeks
at $1.50 per hour and City Attorney to draw Resolution
accordingly.
Letter was submitted by City Engineer advising of the
resignation of Harry Bond, who had been working in the
Engineering Office as a temporary Civil Engineering
Aide. Mr. Bond's resignation_ is to be effective as of
May 16, 1955.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that the resignation
of Harry Bond be accepted as of May 16, 1955 and City
Attorney to draw Resolution accordingly.
City Engineer announced that he had been invited by
the Southern California Edison Company to attend an
inspection of the power plant in the High Sierras on
May 25, 26 and 27th. This would be at no cost to the
93
Additional help for
Clean-up Week.
Resignation of
Harry Bond, Civil
Engineering Aide.
M,
/
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA 11ONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
City except for his time, and he would like approval
to attend this affair.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that City Engineer
be granted permission to attend the inspection of the
Southern California Edison Company pourer plant in the
High Sierras.
City Attorney submitted -reply to letter from Councilman
Johnson regarding his possible interest in or stock in
some local companies. His reply was as follows:
"may 16, 1955
Hon. City Council
City of Azusa
City Hall
Azusa, California
Gentlemen:
Under date of May 12, 1955, 1 received a
letter from Councilwoman Martha M. Johnson, which reads
as follows:
"Mr. P. J. Tscharner
City Attorney
Azusa, Calif.
Dear Sir:
7:30 P.M.
City Engr, to
attend inspection o
So. Calif. Edison
Co. Power Plant in
High Sierras.
City Attorney's
reply to Council-
man Johnson's
letter of May 2,
1955.
So that the City Council and the people of Azusa may
be fully informed with respect to any private interests
which may appear to be in conflict with your official
capacity as City Attorney of Azusa, I demand, in my
official capacit% as an elected member of the City
Council of the City of Azusa, that you immediately
submit your sworn statement in answer to the following
questions:
1. Do you own, or possess
any shares of stock in the
tions?:
a beneficial interest in
following list of corpora -
a Azusa Foothill Citrus Company
b Azusa Agricultural Water Company
c Azusa Irrigating Company
d Azusa Valley Water Company
e San Gabriel River Spreading Corporation
2. Are you now, or have you been, the attorney of record,
or counsel,fbr any or all of the corporations named in
question 1, above?
In the event that you fail or refuse to answer these
questions under oath, I will take such further steps
as may be required to compel your answer.
Respectfully,
MARTHA M. JOHNSON
Martha M. Johnson, Member
Azusa City Council."
I was rather pleased to receive that request and am .lad
to be able to advise you and the I)eople of Azusa my position
in connection with the above request.
In answer to questionl which reads:
97
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
"Do you now own, or possess a beneficial interest
in any -shares of stock in the folloi,ring list of
Corporations?
a Azusa Foothill Citrus Company
b Azusa Agricultural dater Company
c Azusa. Irrigating Company
d Azusa Valley Water Company
e San Gabriel River Spreading Corporation."
In reply to that question, you are advised that I do
not now or have I ever in the past owned or -possessed any
beneficial interest in any shares of stock in either or
any of the above mentioned organizations. I can go farther
and say that no member of my family now owns or ever has owned
or possessed any beneficial interests in any shares of stock
in any of the above organizations.
The next question is:
"Are you now, or have you been, the attorney of record,
or counsel, for any or all of the corporations named
in question 1, above?"
I question seriously whether it is necessary to answer
this second question, however, I have no objection whatsoever
to doing it. If Mrs. Johnson had requested replies rather
than make the demands in the way that she does, I would feel
more inclined to submit my answers.
My best recollection is that in 1950, and prior thereto,
I was on a small retainer from the Azusa Foot -Hill Citrus
Company and the retainer so far as I recall, paid for any
work that I did for that company. It is my recollection
also that if I did any work for the Azusa Agricultural
Water Company it was included in the retainer that I
received from the Azusa Foot -Hill Citrus Company. However,
I have not been on retainer from either of said companies
since 1950. There have been questions asked me by that
company at different times and I have been paid for that
work. I can say to you that in 1951 I received the big sum
of $51.00 from those two companies. In 1952 and 1953 1 did
no business or work with or for either of said companies.
In 1954 I examined some papers for the Azusa Foot -Hill Citrus
'Company in connection with amendments to their Articles of
Incorporation for which I was paid a reasonable sum. I am
,not and have not been under retainer with those companies
'since the end of 1950 to my best recollection.
I am and for about 20 years last past have been Attorney
for the Azusa Irrigating Company. I am the Attorney for the
Azusa Valley Water Company and I am the Attorney for the
San Gabriel River Spreading Corporation. I am rather pleased
that Mrs. Johnson has asked me the question and in particular
with reference to the San Gabriel River Spreading Corporation
because it is frankly my opinion that organizing that company,
I brought to the City of Azusa and its people, possibly the
greatest benefit that anyone individual has brought to the
City. I organized that company, I believe, in 1937. At
that time the San Gabriel River Spreading Corporation
purchased about 500 acres of land along the San Gabriel
River bottoms and ever since that time have been spreading
waters to feed the underground supply and to keep that
supply as near the surface so as to avoid the necessity
of pumping waters from great depths. The City of Azusa, by
reasonlof the fact that the City pumps much of its water,
has been annually saved thousands of dollars as can be
well proven by the Superintendent of Light and Water of
the City. These savings have been without expense to the
T
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
City for quite a number of years. It unquestionably
will in the future for many years, save the City
thousands of dollars annually. I consider the San
Gabriel River Spreading Corporation the best, generous
friend that the City has ever had, and as a citizen,
I appreciate the work that they have been doing. I
can say further, so far as I know, there is not now
and there never has been any conflict of authority or
legal responsibility between the City and that corpora-
tion. I amy evern go farther and say that it is my
candid judgment for the years 1953 and 1954 the citizens
of the City of Azusa would for a time have been deprived
of water for their irrigating purposes if it had not
been for the work of the San Gabriel River Spreading
Corporation. I shall even go father than that and say
to you frankly that in the past the irrigators of citrus
groves surrounding this city and others have been paying
the expense of that water spreading annually and the
City of Azusa has received its share of the benefits
without expense.
I know of no conflict of interest between the Azusa
Irrigating Company and the City of Azusa either at this
time or in the past. The fact is that that Company and
the City have been interchangeably helpful one to the
other. The same is true of the Azusa Agricultural Water
Company. For instance, as late as last week when one
of the City's new pumps was out of order, the Azusa
Agricultural Water Company pumped the necessary amount
of water for the City at a cost less than the City could
pump it from its lower basin. The same is true of the
Azusa Irrigating Company. During the war we had an inter-
change water agreement with that company which certainly
worked to the advantage of our people as well as it did
to the company.
Might I say that at the present time the City of
Azusa is pumping out of the upper basin about 3800 gallons
per minute with a 200 horsepower and if it were not for
the Spreading operation, it would be necessary to pump
out of the lower basin about 4000 gallons per minute at
a cost of 700 horsepower, so that it can be readily
understood that the saving daily to the City is quite
considerable.
Referring now to the Azusa Valley Water Company.
I organized that company and have been its attorney since
organization several years ago. So far as I know, the
Azusa Valley Water Company has never had any dealings with
the City of Azusa.
I am not the attorney for the Hadley -Cherry Company
and have never met any of that company until the City
became interested in annexing the same to the City. Any
agreement that was made between the Azusa Valley Water
Company and the Hadley -Cherry Company, I am advised was
prior to our negotiations with Hadley -Cherry. That
agreement was not a legal matter, I was never consulted
by either party with reference to it and knew nothing
about any agreement of any kind between the parties until,
as I repeat, it came to light to all of us in connection
with the proposed annexation.
I notice the last statement in the request of Mrs.
Johnson the following:
"In the event that you fail or refuse to answer
these auestions under oath, I will take such further
steps as may be required to compel your answer."
100
101
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
I know of no law that compels me to make any state-
ment under oath. Had the request been made ;n a civil
manner, and without such threat, I shall have been glad
to answer under oath. I say further at this time to the
City Council, if the City Council requests me to take
oath to what is herein contained, I shall be glad to do so.
Respectfully submitted,
(sgd.) P. J. TSCHARNER
P. J. Tscharner
City Attorney of the C'ty
Pjt/dh of Azusa"
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman Romero
and unanimously carried that report of P. J. Tscharner
be deliverd to City Clerk and filed.
City Attorney presented to Council another reply to City Atty. answer
the reauest of Councilwoman Johnson for his written to Councilwoman
opinion on certain points listed in her request of Johnson's letter
April 24, 1955. His report was as follows: of 4/28/55.
"Honorable City Council of the May 11, 1955
City of Azusa
Council Chambers
Azusa, California
Gentlemen:
At your P•Iay 2, 1955 meeting, I filed with you an
opinion which had been requested by Councilwoman Johnson
under date of April 24, 1955. In that request, she asked
that I also express opinion on the following situations,
to -wit:
Her question is as follows:
"Another matter of great importance now before the
Council is that of amending and liberalizing the
Civil Service rules and regulations regarding sick
leave and the accumulation thereof. In my opinion,
no governmental unit, using taxpayers' funds, may
be more liberal than to adopt the average prevailing'
sick benefits of comparable private or municipal
employment.
Since this matter falls within the scope of the
Initiative Civil Service Ordinance, I request that
you rule upon the responsibility of the Personnel
Board to investigate, take evidence, hold hearings
and make q)propriate findings based thereon, before
recommending to the Council any revision, extension,
or liberalization of sick leave regulations, since
the effect thereof is to increase the compensation
of all employees."
In reply to said question, you are advised that it is
my opinion that it is the responsibility of the Personnel
Board to investigate thoroughly any recommendation that
it may make to the City Council. As to the forms of the
investigation, that, is largely in the discretion of the
Board. Whatever investigation is made by the Board should
be sufficiently broad and thorough to give to the individual
members of the Board a reasonably full situation of the
facts involved so that they can express an honest and
unbiased opinion on the matter before them.
102
103
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
In this respect, the duty of the Personnel Board
is no different from the duty of any public official or
body to acquaint itself with the circumstances surround-
ing any situation so as to enable the individual members
thereof to reach a conclusion based upon sufficient facts
to satisfy it or them that their conclusion is correct.
The next inquiry from Mrs. Johnson reads as follows:
"A fourth matter which gives me concern is the
question of private use of City property."
In answer to this inquiry, you are advised that no
one, officer or employee, are authorized to use city owned
property for private use. However, if City owned property
is with a City employee or a City official to be used in
connection with his duty as said City employee or official
then it would be legitimate for such employee or official
to have the City owned property in -his charge during the
period of time which it is being used in City matters.
You specifically ask this question:
"Can a member of the City Council have a City -owned
2 -way, Azusa Police radio installed in his private
automobile; and, further, can the City Council even
authorize such an expenditure of tax payers, money?"
7:30 P.M.
The answer again is as stated above, that if the member
of the City Council has a city owned two-way Azusa Police
radio in his private automobile because his connection
with the City Police Department is such that his advice
or service is sometimes necessary by the Police Department,
then under such circumstances, it is my opinion that such
installation is legal.
The next request of Councilwoman Johnson reads as
follows:
"A fifth matter of importance is the continued
action of the Planning Commission to hold meetings
on nights not fixed by Resolution as regular meetings
of that Commission."
In reply, you are advised that the Planning Commission
has by proper Resolution fixed the dates for its meetings
and so far as I know there have been no meetings other than
those fixed by Resolution. It appears that some years ago,
the Planning Commission in some manner desired to hold its
meetings on Wednesday evenings. How ,that decision came
about, I do not know, for I was at that time in no manner
connected with the Planning Commission. At this time they
were meeting in conformity with legal requirements.
The next request of Councilwoman Johnson is as follows:
"I request that you rule whether the City Hall exists
for the public service, or for the comfort and con-
venience of certain city employees."
I anticipate, Mrs. Johnson, that you are well aware
of .the fact that the City Hall exists for the public service,
subject, however, to such laws as regulate the use of City
Hall by City employees. In your request you state as follows:
"State law provides two 15 minute rest periods for
women employees."
That legal requirement by State Law should be followed
and it is, therefore, the duty of the City Council to
establish the necessary space for such a period by woman
employees. Whether or not the City Council, because of
overcrowded office space in the City Hall, desire temperily
104
105
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
to ignore that legal requirement, is a matter that
is entirely up to the City Council and not for me to
determine. However, I understand space has been
provided for that purpose.
Respectfulli? submitted,
(sgd.) P. J. Tscharner
P. J. Tscharner,
City Attorney"
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded .by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this letter be
filed with the City Clerk.
Councilman Ortuno stated he was aware of the fact that
the State provides 15 minute breaks for the employees,
but it is his understanding that some employees are Abuse of 15 minute
taking more than the 15 minutes, sometimes as long as a break periods.
half hour. City Attorney replied that this was in
violation of the lava, and that the procedure Would be
to have the Department Head take up the matter, and
if this did not remedy the situation, the individuals
would be subject to dismissal after hearing.
City Attorney presented to Council an answer in reply City Attorney's
to the letter from Councilman Johnson requesting a answer to letter
written opinion with regard to the transfer of the from Councilman
accounting system of the Light and Water Department Johnson of 5i8/55
to the Chief Accounting Officer. His reply* was as
follows:
"Honorable City Council of the May 11, 1955
City of Azusa
Council Chambers
Azusa, California
On May 8, 1955, City Councilwoman Johnson wrote
to me and sent copies thereof to the Council members
and Superintendent of the Light and Water Department
and the Chief Accounting Officer in which letter she
speaks of Ordinance No. 475, which Ordinance establishes
the office of the Chief Accounting Officer. Therein
she states that it is her opinion that the City Council
should direct that the Chief Accounting Officer forth-
with take over and operate the accounting system of the
Light and Water Department and that the City Attorney
should be instructed to draw a Resolution transferring
the employees concerned from the Light and Water Dept.
to the Accounting Department.
Section 3 of said Ordinance #475, as stated in
Mrs. Johnson's letter, provides that the Chief Account-
ing Officer shall install and operate a complete fnunici-
pal accounting system for all offices and departments
of the City of Azusa. That it is the duty of the
Accounting Officer to install and operate a complete
municipal accounting system for all offices and depart-
ments of the City, there can be no doubt.
Section 4 of said Ordinance reads, as stated in
Mrs. Johnson's letter, that "All other Ordinances or
Resolutions or parts thereof, inconsistent with, or
in conflict with, the provisions, of this Ordinance are
hereby repealed." Based on those provisions, she states
that the Council should instruct the City Attorney to
draw a resolution transferring the employees concerned
from the Light and Water Department to the Accounting
Department.
los
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
If it is the desire of the City Council that I
prepare such a resolution, I shall certainly conform
to that request. However, I find no provision in
Ordinance 475 authorizing the transfer of employees
of any department into the office of the Chief Account-
ing Officer. The only: provision is that he shall install
and operate the system. That does not mean to me, nor
do I believe it was the intention of the Council at:the
time said Ordinance was passed, that any employee
should be transferred out of the departments in which
they were at that time working. I make that statement
because of the fact that Mrs. Johnson, at a meeting
of the City Council in November of last year, offered
a resolution transferring nine (9) employees from the
Light and Water Department to the office of the Chief
Accountant. That resolution failed to carry. This
indicates to me that it was not the intention of the
Council at the time of the passage of Ordinance #475
to transfer to the office of the Chief Accounting
Officer the employees of an,,, department.
Whether a transfer of the employees is to be made
from the Light and Water Department to the Accounting
Department is entirely_up to the City Council. I might
add that if, under the reading of Ordinance #475 the
employees of said department are to be transferred,
then it would be equally logical to assume that the
employees of all other departments are to be transferred
to the Accounting Department.
Respectfully submitted,
(sgd.) P. J. TSCHARNER
P. J. Tscharner,
City Attorney."
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman Ortuno
and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
7:30 P.M.
207
City Attorney submitted letter in reply to letter re- City Atty's, answer
ceived from Councilman Johnson with regard to the to letter from
present method of operating the various departments Councilman Johnson
of the City of Azusa. His letter was as follows: of 5/8/55
"Honorable City Council
City of Azusa
Council Chambers
Azusa, California
Gentlemen:
Ma;; 16, 1955
Under date of May 8, 1955, I received a request, in
writing, from Councilwoman Martha M. Johnson, which re-
quest reads as follows:
"Mr. P. J. Tscharner
City Attorney
Azusa, California
Dear Sir:
-For some time I have been considering the present
method of operating the various departments of the
City of Azusa, and I have concluded that now is the
time to request your advice in this matter.
Specifically, I know of no authority in general
law which permits a 6th class city to function under
what amounts to a "Commissioner" form of government.
T.
E
CITY HALL
AZUSA,
CALIFORNIA
MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
We now
have in
Azusa:
Fawcett
A
Commissioner of Police
Mr.
Memmesheimer
A
Chairman of Public Works
Mr.
Fawcett
A
Chairman of Finance
Mrs.
Johnson
A
Chairman of Public Utiltities
Mr.
Ortuno-
This arrangement results in each "Chairman" or
"Commissioner" assuming full responsibility for the
operationof 4his" department. Any inquiry from any
other member of the City Council is resented as inter-
ference with the rights and perogatives of the so-called
"Chairman" concerned. This is not a healthy situation.
It breeds suspicion, resentment, and controversy within
the City administration, and is divisive of the general
powers of the entire City Council of a city of the 6th
class.
It is my opinion that each elected member of this
City Council has co -equal statutory rights and powers
with every other member and that the Council cannot,
by resolution, divide these rights and powers, some
to one member, some to another, and some to a third.
It is my further opinion that each department head
should deal publicly with the Council as a whole. I
also believe that each Council member has the individual
right to inquire into the day to day operations of every
department, but without individually interfering there-
with. Any matters requiring correction should be re-
ferred to the Council for decision.
I therefore reauest that you advise the City Council
in these matters. In the event you conclude that the
present system of "Commissioner and Chairmen of Depart-
mentO is legal and proper I request that you render
such an opinion in writing, citing authorities.
Respectfully,
7:30 P.M.
/s/ MARTHA M. JOHNSON
Martha M. Johnson, Member
Azusa City Council
cc Councilmen: Memmesheimer, Fawcett,
Ortuno, Romero
City Clerk"
You will observe that the first specific statement in
her communication reads:
"Specifically, I know of
law which permits a 6th
under what amounts to a
government.
no authority in general
class city to function
"Commissioner" form of
A Commissioner of Police
Mr.
Memmesheimer
A Chairman of Public Works
Mr.
Fawcett
A Chairman of Public Utilities
Mr.
Ortuno
A Chairman of Finance
Mrs.
Johnson."
In answer to that specific statement, I desire to
say that the City of Azusa is organized under the General
Municipal Act as a City of the Sixth Class and is operating
as a City of the Siy_th Class and under no other form of
government and never had been such. Neither has it
operated as a commissioned governed city. It is true
that for a great many years last past it has been the
custom with the Citi* Council to designate Chairmans.
110
III
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
for :different departments of the City government,
namely Pdlice, Public Works, Public Utilities and
Finance. However, those Chairmans, or if you care
to call them "Commissioners", have no power as a
matter of law to direct or control any of the City
Departments. That power is vested strictly in the
City Council and it has operated in that way ever
since I have had any contact with the City, being a
period of more than twenty-five years. All Councilmen
undoubtedly are aware of the fact that at each meeting
of the City Council when any department is under dis-
cussion, the head of that department is present in the
City Council and is called upon to state his version
or reasons for any requests made. The Chief of Police
as head of the Police Department, the Fire Chief as
head of the Fire Department, the Superintendent of
the Light and Water Department are invariably present
at every Council meeting to present their matters to
the Council. It is true that they may have discussed
such matter, and rightly so, with the Councilman who
has by the Council been appointed as "Chairman" of
that particular department. In my opinion that is a
good arrangement, for in that way, both the head of
the department and the "Chairman" can convey to the
whole Council their understanding of the situation so
that the Council can be better informed when it takes
its action. The ultimate action is always and as a
matter of law must be left to the City Council. It
has always been so in this City.
In the book entitled "Local Government in California"
by John C. Ballens and Stanley Scott, we find the
following with -reference to Sixth Calss Cities, to -wit:
"Although their maior officers are mayors and
Councilmen, many less populous general law cities
in California are functioning under a modified
commission plan. In such instances, the five
Councilmen, generally at their initial meeting
after the local election, decided which of them
shall be mayor and specify what city functions,
usually public works, finance, and police and
fire, shall become the special interest of individual
council members. Councilmen in sixth -class cities
have absolutely no power except when acting at a
meeting of the city council."
I repeat, that in my opinion, this method of procedure
in Sixth Class Cities, not under the managerial form, is
wise and in my opinion works out for the good of the City.
I assume that the request was made because one of
the City Councilmen, namely Mayor Memmesheimer, is some-
times referred to as "Commissioner of Police." I have
asked the City Clerk for a record relative to that
designation, and I find the following in connection
therewith, to -crit:
"At the meeting of�April 20, 1954, Memmesheimer
stated that he would accept the nomination of
Mayor on condition that he would continue as
"Chairman of Police and Fire Departments."
There were no ob:iections. This is at the time
when he was nominated for Mayor after the April
1954 election. Somehow, inadvertantly, on May 3,
when they appointed chairmen of the various
departments, Chairman of Public Works, Public
Utilities, Finance and Purchasing were called
'Chairmen' and somehow the7Police and Fire was
called 'Commissioner.' However, since that time
it has been referred to as 'Chairman.' On January
:3`„ 1955 in regard to bids on automobiles for the
Police Department a motion was made and carried
112
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
that these bids be referred to the Chairman of
Finance, Chairman of Police and Chairman of Fire
and Police Departments."
I do not agree with Councilwoman Johnson that the
above setup is not a health;] condition. The Statement in
the written request of Councilwoman Johnson to the effect
that "each elected member of this City Council has co -equal
statutory rights and powers "lith every other member and
that the Council cannot, by resolution, divide these rights
and powers, some to one member, and some to another, and
some to a third."
I agree with that statement. No member of the Council
can be deprived of any rights accorded to him or her under
the law, and in view of the fact that the whole Council acts
upon requests of the different departments, does not depr9_ve
any Councilman from individual action. In other words, it
helps them more logically to determine what their action
should be.
The name "Conunissioner" has no different meaning than
the name "Chairman" in Sixth Class Cities.
Further quoting from "Local Government in California"
I find this statement relative to Councilmen:
"As legislative body, they have powers conferred
upon them by law. As individual councilmen,
they have no authority. They are not department
heads and any purported exercise of administrative
authority is illegally assumed and is wholly with-
out a statutory basis. Since 1947, sixth -class cities
(which include all general law cities with only two
exceptions) can use either the mayor -council or
council-manager form of government, but are unable
to adopt the commission system."
PJT/dh"
Respectfully submitted,
(sgd.) P. J. TSCHARNER
P. J. Tscharner
City Attorney of the
City of Azusa.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
Councilman Johnson offered the following Resolution
entitled:
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA,
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, EMPLOYING GILBERT BOSCOE,
WILLIAM 0. TANNEHiLL, OLLIE WALDEN, MRS. JACKIE GATES,
MRS. LOUISE BASHORE, ALBERT EATON, WRAY CALAHAN, NANCY
LANG, NANCY COLE, JUDITH DOWNING, JERRY SITTON, RONALD
LANDER, AND RICHARD PADILLA IN CONNECTION WITH THE
SWIMMING POOL IN THE CITY PARK OF THE CITY OF AZUSA
DURING THE SUIrE.IER 1955 PERIOD AND FIXING THEIR SALARIES.
Councilman Johnson_ moved its adoption, seconded by
Councilman Fawcett. This Resolution passed and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Johnson, Romero,
I%jemmesheimer
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
and numbered Resolution No. 3215.
iia
Resolution No.321
Swimming Pool
Personnel for
1955 Period.
.114
115
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
7:30 P.M.
City Attorney asked Mr. Smith, Supt. of Light & Water
to report to Council in connection with their meeting
Enlarging of
with representatives of Southern California Edison
Azusa Substation.
Company. Mr. Smith appeared. before Council and report-
ed that he and the City Attorney had met with Southern
California -Edison Company with regard to their enlarg-
ing the Azusa substation. At that time the Edison
Company offered to enlarge the main substation trans-
former bank and necessary switches and current trans-
formers, etc., *which would increase the monthly rental
by $188 per month, with the extra protection of
additional 3,000 hvJ transformer capacity and consider-
ing the future growth of the City, it was Mr. Smith's
opinion it would be well worth the ex' money. In
case the City does build another substation at the
other end of town then there would always be two banks
of transformers working in case it would be necessary
to shut one down for repair, and there would be no
interruption in service. City Attorney stated it was
his understanding that even if the City increased its
facilities in the east end of town, the increase, by
virtue of the growth of the City, would be consumed.
He also stated that the records should show the state-
ment of the Edison Company that they would enlarge the
main-.substationm etc, for an additional $188 per month
rental. Supt. Smith stated that at the present time
our transformers are overloaded and this addition
would be beneficial to the City. A letter was to
have been ?.written Edison Company but so far it hasn't
been done as the City was waiting for a reply from
Edison Company as to the possibility of the City
buying the utility facilities in Tract 8507 lying
outside the City limits.
City Attorney reported that Mr. Palo was going to bring
action against the City at once for the removal of the
transformer bank now located on his property. He expects
to expand his business and demands that this be taken off
his property. This matter has been under consideration
and discussion for a number of years and the time has come
now when something will have to be done about that
situation. If this transformer is moved there will be
a problem of furnishing power to that vicinity - this
is an engineering problem stated M:f,. Tscharner. It
was brought out in discussion that Palo offered space
in the front of their lot for this transformer, but
M:. Smith would rather have it located in the rear
because it would entail less expense. Palo refused
to pay any part of the expense of moving this, but
they would give the City the space in the front of
their property. A?ayor Memmesheimer suggested that
Councilmen Ortuno and Fawcett, Supt. of Power and Water,
and City Engineer go out to Palo and discuss the matter
with them and report back to Council on June 6th.
Councilman Johnson offered the following Resolution
Resolution No.
entitled:
3216 - Salary of
City Attorney
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA,
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, FIXING THE SALARY
OF THE CITY ATTORNEY"
Councilman Johnson moved its adoption, seconded by
Councilman Ortuno. This Resolution passed and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Johnson, Romero,
Memmesheimer
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
and numbered Resolution #3216.
116
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
City Attorney stated he was not at this time prepared to
answer Councilman Johnson's letter of May 13th, but he
would have this ready for the next Council meeting.
Councilman Romero again brought up the subject of
County residents being permitted to use Azusa's
recreational facilities. A motion was passed at the
last Council meeting that the City not encourage people
outside the City limits to use the recreation program
of the City.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno that the Council reconsider the motion of
May 2nd regarding County's participation in recreational
facilities of City of Azusa. Motion passed by the
following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson
ABSENT: None
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno that the :privileges of the City Recreational
Program include the youth of the immediate surrounding
territory. Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson
ABSENT: None
The Supt, of Light and !:rater Department submitted the
recommendation of the Committee appointed at the last
Council meeting to study the bids received on the three
induction motor starters. It was their recommendation
that the low bid of Allis-Chalmers in the amount of
$9,145.50 be accepted.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno, and unanimously carried, that the low bid of
$9,145.50 of Allis-Chalmers on three induction motor
starters be accepted and the Supt, of Light and Water
authorized to purchase same, and the City Clerk authorized
to return the bid bonds or check to the unsuccessful
bidders.
iii
7:30 P.M.
Previous motion
reconsidered.
Recreation Privi-
leges for children
of surrounding
areas.
Allis-Chalmers
awarded induction
starter bid.
Supt, of Light and ;later Department submitted the recom-
Southern Pipe &
mendation of the Committee for the purchase of 700 ft, of
Casing awarded
18" pipe. The low bid was received from the Southern Pipe
bid.
and Casing Company in the amount of $2,624.44 including
tax.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman Ortuno
and unanimously carried that recommendation of the Com-
mittee be accepted and bid be awarded to the Southern
Pipe & Casing Company for 700 ft, of 18" pipe for total
price of $2, 24.1 including tax, and that the Supt. of
Light and Water be authorized to purchase same, and
City Clerk authorized to return bid bonds or checks to
unsuccessful bidders.
Supt, of Light and Water submitted the recommendation of
the Committee for the purchase of one 18" Check Valve.
Check Valve Bid
The low bid was received from the Rennsselaer Valve Co.
awarded to
at a total price of $1,09,:).38.
Rennsselaer Co.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that the recommendation
of the Committee be accepted and the bid be awarded to
the Rennsselaer Valve Company for a total price of
$1,096.38 that
and the Supt of Light and Water be
authorized to purchase same, and City Clerk authorized
to return bid bonds or checks to the unsuccessful
bidders.
lie
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
Supt. of Light and Water submitted a letter of resigna-
tion from Mrs. Zelda Maxine King, Account Clerk in the
Light and Water Department, and also his recommendation
that Mrs. King's name be placed on the Reinstatement
List. Mrs. King was resigning due to ill health, and
had been employed by the City for less than six months.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Johnson that the resignation of Mrs. Zelda Maxine King
be accepted and City Attorney to draw Resolution accord-
ingly. Councilman Ortuno stated that it takes a certain
amount of money to train an employee, and as Mrs. King
has gone through this training period for six months, and
he didn't feel justified in accepting her resignation and
not putting her on the reinstatement list.
Motion passed by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Johnson, Romero,
NOES: Councilmen: Ortuno, Memmesheimer
ABSENT: None
A letter to the Southern California Edison Company granting
them permission to serve electrical energy to property
located approximately 200 feet west of Motor Avenue,
Azusa, was presented to Council with the request that
the Mayor be authorized to sign this.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that Mayor Memmesheimer
be.authorized to sign the letter to the Southern Calif.
Edison Company granting them permission to serve electrical
energy to property approximately 200 feet west of Motor
Avenue, Azusa.
Letter was submitted from E. C. Snyder, President of the
Board of Trustees, of the Azusa Public Library, advising
that the Board of Trustees have examined the plans pre-
pared by the City Engineer for the provision of a separate
entrance for the Children's Department and has approved
them.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this matter be tabled
until next Council meeting.
Letter of resignation was submitted from Hollis D. Critch-
low, member of the Community Redevelopment Program.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Johnson and unanimously carried that the resignation
of Hollis D. Critchlow from the Community Redevelop-
ment Program be accepted. Mayor Memmesheimer recom-
mended that Arthur Cornwell be appointed to fill the
vacancy on the Community Redevelopment Program.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman Romero
and unanimously carried that Arthur Cornwell be appointed
as member of the Community Redevelopment Program and
the City Clerk to advise accordingly.
Letter was submitted from United Cerebral Palsy of Los
Angeles, Inc, requesting permission to conduct a fund
raising drive in Azusa during the month of May.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that United Cerebral
Palsy, Inc. be granted permission to conduct a fund
raising drive in Azusa in the month of May with the
provision that they supply a list of the names of their
workers to be cleared through the Police Department.
Letter was presented from the Southern California Edison
Company to which was attached a copy of tine Public
Utilities Commission Opinion and Order on Third Supple-
mental Application, Decision No. 51453, covering Applica-
tion No. 29011 in connection with the Southern California
Edison Co., and City of Azusa Service Agreement.
119
7:30 P.M.
Resignation of
Mrs. King - Light
& Water Dept.
So. Calif. Edison
Co. to furnish
power - Motor Ave.
Library Board
approve plan for
Children's
entrance ---
tabled.
Resignation of
H. D. Critchlow
from Committee
A. Cornwell
appointed to
Comm. Redevelop.
Committee
Cerebral Palsy
Drive
P.U.C. approval of
Supplemental
Agreement with
So. Calif. Edison
120
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that these papers be
filed.
Resolution was presented to Council from E1 Monte,
endorsing a proposed new highway route into Los Angeles
designated as Mill Valley Highway.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded. by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this Resolution be
filed.
Report of Interim Committee on a State Office of Planning
for California was submitted to Council. AB58 creates
such office to assist Cities in their planning activities
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that the Report of Interim
Committee on a State Office of Planning for California
be referred to the Planning Commission for study and
recommendation.
Letter was submitted to Council from Nathan S. Krems
commending the Chief of Police and. the Police Department
on their outstanding work in connection with the appre-
hension of the bandits who held up the Waggoner's Gas
Station at Azusa Square.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this letter of
commendation be filed.
Letter was submitted from the Air Pollution Control
District regarding certain recommendations approved by
the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, acting as
the Air Pollution Control Board, regarding the control
of rubbish burning.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Johnson and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
121
7:30 P.M.
PI 11 Valley High-
way -- filed.
State Office of
Planning referrec
to Planning
Commission.
Commendation for
Police Department.
Air Pollution
letter --- filed.
Letter was submitted from the San Diego Harbor Legislative
Committee requesting opposition to the Allen Bill. Letter re: Allen
➢Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman Bill -- filed.
Romero and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
Letter was submitted from County of Los Angeles, Federa-
tion of Community Coordinating Councils, commending
Azusa for operating "town meeting" process in the local
Community Coordinating Council.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
Romero and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
Letter was submitted from County Sanitation Districts
of Los Angeles County together with copy of a proposed
resolution regarding rubbish transfer and disposal,
and request for support of Assembly Bill No. AB1459.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Fawcett and unanimously carried that this matter be
referred to the City Attorney for study and report to
Council at nest meeting.
Letter was submitted from the Guadalupe Society- request-
ing permission to hold a dance on June 13, 1955.
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that the request of the
Guadalupe Society to hold a dance on June 18th be
referred to the Chief of Police for whatever restrictions
he deems necessary.
City Clerk announced League of California Cities dinner
at Culver City to be held Thursday, May 19th.
Coordinating
Council letter --
filed.
Study of AB14 re:
rubbish disposal
referred to
Attorney
Guadalupe Society
granted dance
permit.
122
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
Letter was submitted from the Office of Civil Defense
expressing their appreciation to Chief of Police Kendrick
for excellent convoy service provided on April 19th for
their°sixteen-vehicle Civil Defense caravan proceeding
to the Atomic Energy Commission Nevada test site.
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman
Ortuno and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
Mayor Memmesheimer read Petition for Annexation submitted
by Valley Sales Company of 9054 E. Garvey Avenue. City
Engineer stated that this land is located at the inter-
section of Arrow and Cerritos, adjacent on the South to
the City of Covina, and that it would have to be a
strip annexation. It would be about 10 acres of land,
and commercial property.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman Romero
and unanimously carried that this be referred to the
City Attorney and Citi- Engineer to take the necessary
steps of preparation for annexation.
123
7:30 P.M.
A letter of
appreciation to
Police Dept.
Engineer and
Attorney to
prepare for strip
annexation.
City Clerk submitted a letter from F. Nelson Baker of
5278 Clydebank commenting upon present conditions in Azusa
government. F. Nelson Baker
Moved by Councilman Fawcett, seconded by Councilman letter - filed.
Johnson and unanimously carried that this letter be filed.
Letter from the Azusa Woman's Club was presented to Coun-
cil protesting the removal of the palm trees on North
Azusa Avenue between 8th and 9th Streets.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Romero that this letter be filed. Motion passed by
the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen::Fawcett, Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilmen: Johnson
ABSENT: None
Demand was presented from Mr. Arthur W. Cornwell for
mileage expense for attendance at the Community Redevelop-
ment Course given by U.C.L.A. Extension in Los Angeles.
It was brought out in discussion that at the time he
attended these classes he was not a recognized member
of the Community Redevelopment Committee and therefore
this expense could not, be paid.
Mr. McCloskey of the Norac Company again appeared before
Council to inauire if, in the event that some agreement
with the Fire Chief could be arrived at, pertaining to
the propriety of their business, the action taken at
the last Council meeting would still hold, that is,
would the permit be granted then? It was the opinion of
the Council that action should be held up until the re-
port of the Committee is submitted.
Councilman Romero offered the following Resolution
entitled:
Woman's Club lett(
filed.
Mileage expense
denied.
Norac Company
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF AZUSA, Variance Pet Shop
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA, GRANTING A VARIANCE Resolution
FROM C-1 to C-3 OF THE PROPERTY OF AZUSA PROPERTIES, No. 3217
INC., LOCATED AT 626 EAST STH STREET, AZUSA, CALIFORNIA
FOR THE PURPOSE OF CONDUCTING A PET SHOP"
Councilman Johnson moved its adoption, seconced by
Councilman Ortuno. This Resolution passed and adopted
by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Johnson, Romero,
Memmesheimer
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
and numbered Resolution no. 3217.
124
125
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16,
1955 7:30 P.M.
Councilman Johnson announced that a Mrs. Marshall had
5670
telephoned her to inquire if she could sell hot dogs
684.84
and hamburgers in their living quarters in the rear
Request for per -
of billiard parlor they operate. Councilman Ortuno
mission to sell
stated that the Health Department would not allow a
food from living
kitchen to be used for both domestic and commercial
quarters - Mrs.
purposes, and that she should be advised to contact
Marshall
the Health Department authorities.
37,50
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded by Councilman
City Employees' Payroll Account
Romero and unanimously carried that City Clerk be
5676
instructed to contact. Mrs. Marshall and advise her
1.61
that she will need the approval of the Health Department
Grimes-Stassforth Stationery Co.
on this matter.
5678
Moved by Councilman Romero, seconded by Councilman
Budget Meeting to
Ortuno that the City Clerk contact Mr. Rulofson and
be set
have him get the budget information together so that
5680
we can have a meeting early in June to go over the
78.00
budget. Motion passed by the following vote:
Mobile Radio, Inc.
AYES: Councilmen: Fawcett, Ortuno, Romero, Memmesheimer
NOES: Councilman Johnson
Munselle Supply Co., Inc.
ABSENT: None
5683
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded by Councilman
Bills &
Fawcett and unanimously carried that the following
Requisitions
Bills and Requisitions (LW -3114 - LW -3133) be paid.
5685
LIGHT FUND
162.58
5884 Addressograph-Multigraph Corporation$
11.46
5885 Azusa Motor Parts
23.89
5886 Calif. Municipal Utilities Assoc.
37,50
5887 City Employees' Payroll Account
2,604.10
5888 Foothill Supply Company
5,890.20'
5889 Getts Hardware
10.42
5890 Grimes-Sta.ssforth Stationery Co.
6,53
5891 Hunt's Hardware
3.50
5892 Inland Transportation Corp.
5893 Mobile Radio, Inc.
,78
33.34
5894 Standard Oil Company of Calif.
13,50
5895 Westinghouse Electric Supply Co.
321.16
5896 Williams Lumber Yard
58.34
5669
Addressograph-Multigraph Corp.
5.22
5670
Azusa Agricultural Water Co.
684.84
5671
Azusa Ice Company
4.20
5672
Azusa Motor Parts
15.47
5673
Brooks Products, Inc.
38.01
5674
Calif. Municipal Utilities Assoc.
37,50
5675
City Employees' Payroll Account
2,293.60
5676
Getts Hardware
1.61
5677
Grimes-Stassforth Stationery Co.
6,52
5678
James Jones Company
446.71
5679
Johnson's Plumbing & Appliance Co.
4.36
5680
Koppl Company
78.00
5681
Mobile Radio, Inc.
16.60-
5682
Munselle Supply Co., Inc.
23.06
5683
Neptune Meter Company
17,35
5684
Signal Oil Co.
144.90
5685
Southern Pipe & Casing Co.
162.58
5686
Taylor & Hoover
500.00
5687
Williams Lumber Yard
7.76
STATE
RETIREMENT FUND
102
State Employees' Retirement System
2,421.16
126
227
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955 7:30 P.M.
GENERAL FUND
9089
A A Lock Company
$ 6,00
9090
A. -G. 'Tony' Aguilar
7.79
9091
Alhambra Foundry Co., Ltd.
190.55
9092
American Bitumuls & Asphalt Co.
119.50
9093
American Right of inlay & Appraisal Contr.
525.00
9094
Arcadia Feed and Seed Store
7,32
9095
Artcra£t-Swiss Embroider;; Co.
261.85
9096
The Artisan Press
29.70
9097
Azusa Brake & Wheel Alignment
9.56
9098
Azusa City Schools
54.00
9099
Azusa Bldg. Materials
107.16
9100
Foothill Classified
8.40
9101
Entered in Minutes of June 6, 1955
9102
_„ , „
9103
,1 „
9104
City Employees' Payroll Account
19,381.02
9105
Azusa. Indian Club
62.50
9106
Azusa Motor Parts
27.94
9107
Azusa Paint & Wallpaper Co.
125.00
9108
Azusa Herald
262.01:
9109
Azusa Rock & Sand Co.
679,43
9110
Azusa Rock & Sand Co.
146.88
9111.
U.'S. Post Office
10.00
9112
Clyde A. Blanchard
172.70
9113
Business Systems, Inc.
346.80
9114
Brooks Products, Inc.
163.77
9115
Brown, Bevis Industrial Equipment Co.
156.58
9116
H.'L. Byram, Countlr Treasurer
76.56
9117
Canyon City Paint Store
13,84
9118
Max E. Chervin, M.D.
10.00
9119
Central Market
1.26
9120
City Employees' Payroll Account
14,231.41
9121
Clary Corp.
43.26
9122
Commercial Lighting Equipment Co.
428.71
9123
Cook -Nichols Co.
235.90
9124
J. H. Coombs
229.0'0
9125
County of Los Angeles
63,00
9126
Count- of Los Angeles, Health Dept.
1.00
9127
Crown Fence & Supply Co., Ltd.
196.60
9128
R. W. Davis
60.52
9129
The Firewater Company
59.33
9130
Clarence H. Fawcett
6.00
9131
Getts Hardware
70.00
9132
Hardison Cleaners
2.29
9133
Harris & Frank
15,45
9134
Hendley Electric
3,73
9135
Higgins Trucks, Inc.
1,31
9136
Hunt's Hardware
23.07
9137
Industrial Asphalt Company
731.24
9138
Jamison Mfg. Co.
871,96
9139
Kaag
47.11
9140
Norman King
3,256,88
9141
Louis J. Kroeger & Assoc.
209.17
9142
Lou's Foothill Glass Service
22,78
9143
Louis the Tailor
55.31
9144
Joslyn Pacific Co.
88,99
9145
Bud Latta's Welding Shop
65.07
9146
L. A. Cement:Gun Inc.
761.00
9147
Lennie's Garden Center
0,27
9148
Maydwell & Hartzell, Inc.
124.84
9149 '
McBey Products, Inc.
53,51
9150
Mel's Sproting Goods
15.32
9151
L. G. Memmesheimer
6,06
9152
James Miller
9.66
9153
James Miller
32.25
9154
Molsberry"Company
26.13
9155
R. G. Osborne Laboratories, Inc.
105.75
128
CITY HALL AZUSA, CALIFORNIA MONDAY, MAY 16, 1955
GENERAL FUND (Cont"d.
7:30 P.M.
9156
Penny's $
3.76
9157
Pennock's
158.65
9158
City of Pomona
150.02
9159
Reed & Routt Automotive Service
1.76
9160
Sam's Auto Parts & Wrecking Co.
1.04
9161
San Gabriel Valley Humane Society
48.50
9162
San Gabriel Valley Newspapers, Inc.
2.50
9163
Signal Oil Co.
882.09
9164
Eugene Sillert
144.00
9165
Smith Saw & Lawn Mower Shop
3.64
9166
C. -D. Soiseth & Son
83.38
9167
Southern Counties Gas Company
35.83
9168
Standard Oil Co. of Calif.
45.50
9169
State of Calif, Printing Div., Documents Sec.
1.29
9170
State Compensation Insurance Fund
1,684.81
9171
StructuralsEngineering Co.
284.63
9172
Tailor Made Fence Co.
8.43
9173
Tarr's Lawn Mower & Engine Service
7.50
9174
Warren Teasley, Planning Commission
14.62
9175
Ten Eyck Supply Co.
68.84
9176
Transport Clearings
2.17
9177
Tri -City Fence Co., Inc.
7.10
9178
Valley Blueprint Co.
195.63
9179
Valley Draperies
631.04
9180
Francis E. Warren
282.50
9181
Western Auto Store
4.17
9182
Westinghouse Electric Supply Co.
1,631.52
9183
Williams Lumber Yard
837.25
9184
John Williamson
36.87
i y C -er oAzusa
a The Chief. of Police appeared before Council and stated
that: the school crossing guard at 10th and Azusa Ave.
quit the job about 10 days ago, and accepted a position Crossing Guard
elsewhere.- She told Captain Williams she was quitting quits.
but dial not put it in writing.
Moved by Councilman Ortuno, seconded b- Councilman Romero
and unanimously carried that City Attorney draw up
Resolution removing Marie Edwards, Crossing Guard, from
payroll.
Moved by Councilman Johnson, seconded. by Councilman Adjournment
Romero and unanimously carried that this meeting adjourn.
Time of adjournment 11:50.