05/14/1987CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - MAY 14, 1987
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace was called to
order in the Council Chambers, Grand Terrace Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road,
Grand Terrace, California, on May 14, 1987, at 5:35 p.m.
PRESENT: Byron Matteson, Mayor
Barbara Pfennighausen, Mayor Pro Tem
Dennis L. Evans, Councilman
Susan Crawford, Councilwoman
Hugh J. Grant, Councilman
Thomas J. Schwab, City Manager/Finance Director (6:15 p.m.)
Randy Anstine, Assistant City Manager/Community Service Director
Loretta Thompson, City Clerk
Joe Kicak, City Engineer
Ivan Hopkins, City Attorney
David Sawyer, Planning Director
Barbara Michowski, Accountant/Finance Office Manager
ABSENT: NONE
The meeting was opened with invocation by Pastor Dave Jacobs, Oasis Christian
,`� Fellowship Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Conci 1 woman
Crawford.
ITEMS TO DELETE Mayor Matteson asked if there were any items to be deleted from
the agenda. The Assistant City Manager advised there were no
items to be deleted from the agenda.
SPECIAL
PRESENTATIONS
David Sawyer The Assistant City Manager introduced David Sawyer, City
Planner.
Michael J. Luna Mayor Matteson presented Michael J. Luna with a 5-year Service
Award.
Joseph Kicak Mayor Matteson presented a Resolution of Commendation to Joseph
Kicak in recognition of his service as Planning Director for
the City of Grand Terrace.
Better Speech & Mayor Matteson proclaimed May, 1987 "Better Speech & Hearing
Hearing Month Month".
CONSENT Mayor Matteson asked if anyone wished to delete any items from
CALENDAR the Consent Calendar. Councilman Grant indicated he would like
to delete Item A - Check Register No. 051487. Mayor Pro Tem
Pfennighausen indicated she wished to delete Items E - Approve
and Authorize Execution and Recordation of Lien Agreement for
Improvements along 21800 Barton Road, and Item H - Approve
Allocation of an Additional $8,000.00 for Completion of
FY 86/87 Architectural Barrier Removal Project from the
Unappropriated Fund Balance of 11-902-255 Street Fund.
Councilman Evans indicated he would like to remove Item J -
Approve Proposed Landscape Plan on Gage Canal Right -of -Way east
of Canal between Barton Road and the Northerly Property Line of
Gage Canal.
CC-87-61 Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen, second by Councilman
Evans, ALL AYES, that the following Consent Calendar items be
approved.
B. Ratify May 14, 1987 CRA Action.
C. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances and Resolutions on Agenda.
D. Approve April 23, 1987 Minutes.
F. Accept and Authorize City Clerk to Record Grant Deed for
Widening of Reed Avenue from Barton 88 Investment Associates.
G. Approve and Authorize Mayor to Execute Agreements - Street
and Storm Drain and Landscape for Improvements along the
Frontage of 22325 Barton Road - Senior Citizen Complex.
I. Approve Transfer of an Additional $12,000 from the
Unappropriated Fund Balance of the Transportation
Development Act Fund for Street Improvements.
Check Register Councilman Grant questioned Item No. P6065 asking if this was
expenditures for meetings between the Mayor and the City
Manager. He was advised that it was. For the record,
Councilman Grant stated previous Mayors for the City of Grand
Terrace did not meet outside of City Hall to discuss City
business. Although recognizing these meetings may be a
convenience to the Mayor because of the location of his
business, Councilman Grant indicated he felt it is an
unnecessary expense.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen expressed her concern regarding
this matter saying she felt that, while the individual
costs were relatively small, the business of Grand Terrace
should be conducted in City Hall.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/ 87
Page 2
Councilman Evans concurred with the concerns expressed
regarding these expenditures suggesting they should be
eliminated.
CC-87-62 Motion by Councilman Grant, second by Mayor Pro Tem
Pfennighausen, ALL AYES, to approve Check Register No. 051487
Item E Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen asked for clarification of staff's
report, particularly with regards to the hazards that would be
created by the ultimate improvements along the frontage of this
property.
The City Engineer indicated that the property is located on the
north side of Barton Road easterly of the Southern Pacific
Railroad near the industrial business park. The installation
of those improvements can only be done along a very short
frontage. At the time this was discussed there was some
discussion that indicated the bridge may be replaced and, at
that time, it was felt a five-year period would probably be
adequate to allow the owner to install the improvements. The
hazards that would be created are primarily with regard to the
severe grade and the narrow street.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen asked whether these improvements
would have to be installed at the City's expense if they were
not done within the five years. The City Engineer advised
that, yes if the improvements were not installed within five
years, the City would have to pay for them.
Councilman Evans asked if there would be adequate frontage to
install the improvements assuming the bridge is replaced in the
future. The City Engineer advised there would be no problem
with installing the improvements in front of the business park
as there is adequate dedication. To the west of the business
park, before you get to the bridge, there is a parcel of
approximately 100 x 100 owned by Southern Pacific Railroad and
that is the property where the City will probably have to pay
for the improvements.
Councilman Evans summarized by stating that if the bridge is
replaced within five years, the owner of the property will bear
the cost of the improvements and if it is not replaced within
the five-year period, the City will bear the cost of the
improvement. The City Engineer indicated that was correct.
Councilman Evans asked what the projection was for that
bridge. The City Engineer advised that one half of the bridge
is in the City of Colton so the replacement of the bridge will
have to be a joint project. Because the City of Colton did not
want to spend their HCD money on this project, the City Council
of Grand Terrace directed that the project not proceed.
Councilman Evans asked if the City Engineer had some
indications as to when the bridge would be replaced. The City
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 3
Engineer indicated he could not say when the bridge would be
replaced. However, he did indicate that if the one half cent
sales tax does go into effect the City of Grand Terrace will be
eligible for seven hundred thousand plus dollars over the next
five years and that type of project could be financed through
these funds. Councilman Evans questioned the condition of the
bridge. The City Engineer indicated that, periodically, the
State Bridge Engineer inspects and reevaluates the bridges in
the State. There is a report on file from the State indicating
this bridge needs maintenance. It is not structurally
unsound. Councilman Evans suggested that if the bridge was
replaced it would be because of increased traffic along the
arterial. The City Engineer agreed.
CC-87-63 Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen, second by Mayor
Matteson, ALL AYES, that Council approve and authorize
execution and recordation of Lien Agreement for improvements
along 21800 Barton Road.
Item H Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated she had requested this
item be deleted from the Consent Calendar in order to commend a
staff member who managed to resolve a very delicate situation
that occured as the result of the action of one of the
subcontractors for the City relating to the removal of trees
damaging sidewalks. Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen suggested, as
a Council, they must be extremely careful and know who their
contractors are going to subcontract to in the future.
CC-87-64 Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen, second by Councilman
Evans, ALL AYES, that Council approve allocation of an
additional $8,000.00 for completion of FY 86/87 Architectural
Barrier Removal Project from the unappropriated fund balance of
11-902-255 Street Fund.
Item J Councilman Evans questioned what the city's responsibility will
be in this regard.
The Community Service Director advised that the developer has
an interest in landscaping a portion of the Gage Canal
right-of-way. He explained that the developer was proposing to
landscape the westerly portion of the development that borders
Canal Street and Barton Road. The developer has received
tentative approval from the Gage Canal with the condition that
a public agency assume responsibility for the maintenance of
the landscaped portion. The City Planning Commission, in
conjunction with the City Staff, have no problem with this
condition other than it is felt the developer should bear the
cost of the maintenance of the landscaping. Staff is
suggesting the City enter into a maintenance agreement with the
developer with the City being the agency assuming
responsibilities for the maintenance and the developer
providing the funds for maintenance of this landscape area.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 4
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen questioned how binding this
agreement would be with a Homeowners' Association. The City
Attorney advised there are quite likely to be a number of
investors involved in this project. However, he indicated one
of the conditions of the approval was that there be a CUR
established and that would provide for a Homeowners Association
that would pay for these sorts of things. As a third party
beneficiary, the City could enforce the provisions of the
Homeowners' Association through the court processes, at least
to those provisions in which the City has a financial interest
such as this landscaping.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen questioned whether a tax lien could
be placed against the property to recover any cost incurred in
this regard. The City Attorney advised this could be done.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen questioned whether that should be
done at this point. The City Attorney indicated that it should
not be done at this point. The agreement with the developer
would probably provide for some front money to ensure the
initial payment for maintenance.
Councilman Evans indicated he wished to discuss the property to
the north. He recalled the City did have some problems with
that project. He questioned whether that developer had offered
to fully landscape the Gage Canal and was turned down.
The City Attorney indicated this was not correct advising the
Gage Canal had agreed to the landscaping, but the estimates for
i the irrigation required were excessive, as far as the developer
was concern. The City Attorney indicated he did not feel the
problem with that project would have been maintenance but the
cost of the initial installation of the landscaping itself.
Councilman Evans indicated he feels the Gage Canal is probably
looking for a public agency to assume responsibility for the
maintenance of the landscaping because they know the public
agency will continue with landscaping due to public pressure.
He expressed concern about approving the proposed landscaping
because of possible problems in the future.
Councilman Grant indicated that the alternatives may force
Council to accept staff's report. Assuming Councilman Evans'
concerns are valid, the alternatives before Council are that:
the landscaping be paid for by the Homeowners' Association;
that funds be expended from the taxpayer to provide the
landscaping; that landscaping not be done. Councilman Grant
indicated he felt the only viable alternative was to enter into
an agreement with the Homeowners' Association to maintain the
landscaping with the Homeowners' Association to fund the
maintenance of the landscaping.
Council Minutes - 5/14/87
Page 5
Councilwoman Crawford indicated that if the homeowners did not
pay for maintaining the landscaping the City could abandon
their care and the property would revert back to it's present
condition. For a short time there would be a nicely landscaped
area.
Councilman Grant indicated Councilman Evans was suggesting that
once the landscaping was in place, the City would not abandon
the care of the area.
The City Attorney indicated that Gage Canal did not care
whether or not the landscaping was removed sometime in the
future providing the property was returned to its original
condition. However, the property owners in that area may
be able to force the City to continue the maintenance of the
area. In that case, the homeowners would be required to pay
their share of the maintenance cost.
Councilwoman Crawford restated her position and indicated she
could not understand how the City could lose in this situation.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated she concurred and that as
long as the City has an avenue of recovery, the City would
never abandon the maintenance of the Gage Canal landscaping.
CC-87-65 Motion by Councilman Grant, second by Councilwoman Crawford,
ALL AYES, to approve proposed landscape plan on Gage Canal
right-of-way east of Canal between Barton Road and the
northerly property line on Gage Canal.
PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION
Tom Tillinghast Mr. Tillinghast advised that he had noticed in the newspaper
22667 Brentwood that the City Council is considering the appointment of the
Acting City Manager as City Manager on a permanent basis and
that they would be acting on that at this meeting. He
questioned how, without going through the recruitment process,
Council will know they are appointing the best man for the
position if they did appoint the Acting City Manager as the
City Manager. He stressed that, in making these comments, he
was not taking away from Mr. Schwab and the job he has been
doing as the Acting City Manager.
Mr. Thomas Schwab joined the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
Mr. Tillinghast indicated that, after going through the
recruitment process, if Council still felt that Mr. Schwab was
the best candidate for the position, then the City would know
they have the best City Manager possible.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 6
Dick Rollins Mr. Rollins indicated he had noticed there are several street
22700 De Berry lights in Grand Terrace that are no longer operating. He has
checked with the Edison Company who advises that most
municipalities have someone on staff who monitors the light
fixtures in the city and reports any malfunctioning fixtures to
l Edison for repair. He suggested that any citizen noticing
light fixtures that are not operating should bring them to the
attention of the Community Service Director who, in turn, will
report them to the Edison Company. He suggested that a notice
to this effect be placed in the sewer bills so all property
owners in the City of Grand Terrace are aware that they can
report non -operating street lights to City Hall for referral to
the Edison Company.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated she was aware of three
light fixtures in her area that were not working.
Mayor Matteson asked the City Manager to look into this matter
and prepare procedures to follow for reporting street lights
that do not work. The City Manager indicated inventory would
be done and procedures established to ensure the street lights
are fixed.
Ken McClellen Mr. McClellen indicated there is an item on the agenda dealing
21882 Grand with the six-month moratorium on the R-3 property west of I-215
Terrace Road freeway. He stated the people in this area would appreciate it
if Council would extend the moratorium until the General Plan
update is completed.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Crime Prevention Mr. O'Neal advised that he was reporting on behalf of the
Committee Community Service Officer who was out of town. He reported
Ed O'Neal that on May 4 and 5, 1987 four members from Grand Terrace and
22608 Minona Dr. he representing the Board of Supervisors and Don Miller from
COMCAST attended a two-day conference sponsored by the
Governor's Office on Criminal Justice and Planning focused on
neighborhood alerts and watches. Mr. O'Neal indicated it was a
well-conducted, well -presented conference. He stated the Grand
Terrace Crime Prevention Committee is operating very strongly
and they are particularly proud of the Crime Buster's Program
being operated by Jamie Butler.
Mr. O'Neal mentioned the Health and Safety Fair held April 25,
1987. It was estimated that there were between five hundred to
a thousand participants at the fair. He also thanked Mayor
Matteson for preparing and selling his award -winning chili and
donating the proceeds to the Crime Buster's Program. In
recognition of his contribution. Mr. O'Neal gave Mayor Matteson
the sign which was posted at his booth during the Safety Fair.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 7
Dick Rollins Mr. Rollins indicated Council had a report on the agenda with
22700 De Berry St. regard to Griffin Park to be discussed later. He indicated he
would like to add to Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen's comments
with regard to subcontractors. He stated that recently they
terminated the landscaping contractor at the park and that the
landscaping is now being undertaken by City Staff. Mr. Rollins
advised there is a procedure to follow to bring a subcontractor
before a referee if he does not fulfill the terms of his
contract. He suggested perhaps it's time the City started
taking action to ensure that subcontractors fulfill their
contracts.
Crime Prevention Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen, second by Councilman
Committee Grant, ALL AYES, that Council accept the resignation of Bruce
CC-87-66 Foytik, with regret, and authorize advertising of vacancy for
an unexpired term to expire June 30, 1990.
Parks and Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen, second by Councilman
Recreation Evans, ALL AYES, that Council direct staff to establish and
Scholarship maintain scholarship pursuant to Committee guidelines and
CC-87-67 criteria with the revenue being generated from Tour de Terrace.
Griffin Park Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated that without the
Site volunteers who serve on various City Committees, the City could
not function. Their job is very important and most of all
their job is to dream.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated that, in the Griffin Park
site maintenance report, the statement was made that Griffin
Park has become a zero utilization greenbelt. She discussed
the use of this park with people living in the area and learned
that Griffin Park site is not a zero utilization area. The
people do use the park site. Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen
questioned how the term was arrived at, what time the park site
was checked and who determined whether the park was a zero
utilization greenbelt. She feels Griffin Park site needs to be
a restricted use greenbelt because it is located between
backyards. She indicated she feels it might pay to talk to
people in the area and find out what kind of expanded use could
be put in this park. Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated she
would like to have no action taken on this item until we have
determined whether this is a zero utilization greenbelt and
look into the possible limited expansion of the use of the
park.
Councilman Grant agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen and
indicated he felt it hard to believe that no one wants this as
a park. He also agreed that eliminating maintenance was
totally unacceptable. Although he was prepared to accept
staff's suggestion to advise residents in the area that park
equipment would be included in this park site, he did not
object to Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausens' suggestion.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 8
Councilwoman Crawford indicated there is a demand for a special
use park for skateboarders. She didn't know if Griffin
Park would serve this need or if it could be utilized in this
manner. She proposed that City Council look into the
possibility of a skateboard park and perhaps establish a
subcommittee of parents and teenagers who might investigate
this possibility.
Stan Hargrave Mr. Hargrave advised his house is not located on this
12048 Canary greenbelt, but across the street. He confirmed that this
Court greenbelt area was used substantially by children in the
neighborhood. He also suggested there would be vigorous
oppostions from the property owners in that area if the use of
this greenbelt was changed. Mr. Hargrave supported Council's
suggestion to upgrade the park. However, he would not support
any major developments such as construction of a building on
the site that would require maintenance. He did not feel this
would be in the best interest of the residents or the city.
Debbie Harber Ms. Harber asked Council to defer a decision on this park
22032 Pico area. She indicated she would like to see this park expanded
to be utilized more than it is now. She strongly supported
Councilwoman Crawford's suggestion of a skateboard park
indicating there is nothing for young people to do in the City
of Grand Terrace. If there was a park developed in the City
where young people interested in skateboarding or biking could
go, it would be a benefit to the citizens of Grand Terrace.
Mayor Matteson suggested that Ms. Harber contact the City
Manager in this regard.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated she is glad that a need
for a park for skateboarders has been brought up and that we
definitely need to make some provisions for these young
people. She would have concerns, however, about the use of
Griffin Park Site as a skateboard park. This park is in
backyards used by small children. As skateboards must go fast
and jump high, it may not be feasible to incorporate that use
in a pa rk used by small children. She questioned why a private
enterprise has not picked up on this need. She suggested it
may be because of the high cost of liability insurance.
Mr. Tony Petta Mr. Petta mentioned that in many cities you will find
11875 Eton Dr. greenbelts and that is what makes cities beautiful even if the
greenbelts are not used. With reference to the benefits
assessment being suggested, he did not feel it would be a good
idea because certain projects benefit certain citizens more
than others. Certain projects are the duty of the city to
provide and maintain, and parks are such projects.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 9
Councilwoman Crawford indicated she feels it would be a benefit
to our young people to have a supervised area in which they
could use their skateboards as then they would be using the
proper equipment.
Council concurred with taking no further action on this matter
until a further report has been received.
Park Site Councilman Evans indicated that, about three months ago, the
Identification Parks and Recreation Committee identified the need for
additional parks in the City of Grand Terrace. The Parks and
Recreation Committee was to establish a committee to look into
possible park sites for the City and return to Council within
sixty days with some suggestions. Councilman Evans questioned
whether this has been done and, if not, why not and when we can
expect to have this report.
Mr. Dick Rollins advised that the Parks and Recreation
Committee has pe rsued this at length. They decided they would
wait and provide their input into the General Plan Update.
Mr. Rollins further advised that the Parks and Recreation
Committee meeting is an open public meeting and he invited any
interested citizen to attend and provide input into recreation
needs of the City.
Councilman Evans asked if any members of the Parks and
Recreation Committee have met with the consultant preparing the
General Plan.
Mr. Rollins advised they have not met with the consultants
yet. He indicated he thought the first meeting was held Monday
night, May 12, 1987.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen advised that the May 12, 1987
meeting was the only general input meeting planned. No other
meeting will be held until the public meetings are scheduled.
It was suggested that members of the Parks and Recreation
Committee meet with the City Manager and the Planning Director
to provide their input into the General Plan update. Mr.
Sawyer advised that information acquired in this way will be
forwarded to the consultant.
The City Manager advised that Lenora Frost, a member of the
Parks and Recreation Committee, attended the meeting on May 12,
1987 and the procedure was explained to her.
For the record, Councilman Grant advised that the Pico Park
area belongs to Edison and is a very viable choice, among other
locations in the City, for park purposes. As mentioned, it is
not intended to build any structures on this park. It is
intended to use the park for "sandbox sports" and the property
is very valuable for that purpose.
Council Minutes - 5/14/87
Page 10
J�
Council recessed at 6:55 p.m.
Council reconvened at 7:10 p.m.
PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION
As there were some people present who had misunderstood the
time for public participation, Mayor Matteson opened the
meeting for public participation again at this time.
Mr. Robert Ferris Mr. Robert Ferris spoke to Council with regards to the
Oriole development taking place behind his property. Mr. Ferris
advised that over the last two years, during the winter time,
his backyard has filled up with mud and has been flooded.
He met with the previous property owners and discussed the
problem with them. The property has since changed hands and
the new owners are in the process of developing the property.
He questioned whether or not there was something that could be
done to ensure that erosions and water flooding did not occur
on their property because of the construction taking place.
Mr. Ferris questioned whether the V-ditch being constructed is
enough to ensure that his property will not be flooded or have
an excessive amount of mud washed onto the property when it
rains. He suggested that he would like to have a retaining
wall constructed so that, if the V-ditch filled up and
overflowed, the retaining wall would stop the mud and water
from going onto his property.
Mayor Matteson asked the City Engineer whether or not the
V-ditch would be adequate to carry the water. The City
Engineer advised that the majority of the drainage from this
property would be away from Mr. Ferris' property. The City
Engineer indicated he felt that the V-ditch would be more than
adequate to handle the drainage in this area. He advised that
the slope will be landscaped to retain the soil and avoid the
erosion that occurred in the past.
Councilman Evans asked the City Attorney who would be required
to build the retaining wall if the V-ditch was not adequate.
The City Attorney advised that will be a civil matter between
the property owner and the developer.
Mayor Matte
City Engine
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Council Minutes - 5/14/87
Page 11
son asked Mr. Ferris if he was satisfied with the
er's statement that the V-ditch will be adequate to
runoff. Mr. Ferris questioned who was responsible
a between his property and the property behind his
The City Engineer advised that the property backing
has the ditch on it. These property owners are
for the ditch. As far as ensuring that the ditch
operly, this can only be done by the City not
ny bonds prior to the completion of the tract and
the total landscaping of those lots. Mr. Ferris indicated that
he would like to see some kind of notice go to the property
owners outlining their responsibility for the maintenance of
this ditch.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen questioned whether or not this
situation was similar to the situation of the property above
Dos Rios. The City Engineer advised that it was a very similar
situation. Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated people need
to understand they must maintain the landscaping on the slope
so that the land does not come down on the property below. She
questioned whether or not there was any way the City could make
it mandatory for them to put that on a disclosure statement.
The City Attorney advised that the Real Estate Association of
California is responsible for that. He did not know of any way
the City could force them to put that on a disclosure
statement.
Stan Hargrave Mr. Hargrave commented on the method of appointing the City
12048 Canary Ct. Manager/Director of Finance. He indicated that, in business,
both recruitment and hiring from in-house are used to fill
vacancies. Both methods are equally successful. He suggested
that the City would be correct in using either method.
Mr. Ed O'Neal
Mr. O'Neal wished to make some comments relating to parks. He
22608 Minona Dr.
had recently joined the Director of County Parks on a tour of
parks in this County. They reviewed the history of the County
Regional Parks since Proposition 13 and where County Region is
going. It appears they are going to be self supporting within
three to four years. They are accomplishing this generally
through the concessionary route. Mr. O'Neal wanted to bring to
the attention of Council that parks can be revenue producing.
COUNCIL REPORTS
Stop Sign
Councilwoman Crawford indicated she was concerned about the
intersection at Preston and Nandina. There is no stop sign
there and people don't stop. She asked if a stop sign could be
placed at that intersection.
The City Manager advised that all the traffic markings are set
by Council. He asked if Council would allow the City Engineer
to look into it and bring a report back.
OmniTran/SANBAG For the record, Councilman Grant advised he attended, with
Councilwoman Crawford as her alternate, the OmniTran meeting
held May 6, 1987. He also attended the SANBAG meeting held
May 6, 1987.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 12
Westar Councilman Grant indicated he had a question about the Westar
Development. He had completed the questionnaire included in
the Chamber Newsletter and returned it. However, he was aware
that some people did not receive the questionnaire and he did
not know why. Council has given Westar a period of time to see
what they can do about putting together a development in Grand
Terrace. He requested an update on this matter.
The City Manager advised that wh i 1 e the Chamber of Commerce
had paid to have these questionnaires inserted in their
newsletters, he had learned at the public meeting held on
May 12 that quite a number of people had not received a
questionnaire. In some cases they received the newsletter and
not the questionnaire. It appears that, while the Chamber of
Commerce paid to have the questionnaire inserted into their
newsletter, it was not done in all cases. He did not know how
good a sample the developer will be getting.
The City Manager advised that a development has been approved
by the Colton Planning Commission at the bottom of Mt. Vernon
which would include an Albertson and Osco Drug Store. What the
developer is attempting to do is to convince the Albertson
Store and/or Osco Drug Store to locate in Grand Terrace rather
than in Colton. With the information obtained from the survey,
the developer will try to draw one or both of the markets from
the proposed development in Colton. If he is able to do so, he
will undoubtly ask Council for one of the sixty-day extensions
to carry on with his investigation.
Councilman Grant indicated he hopes the developer is successful
in attracting one of these stores to Grand Terrace. He
indicated we know about developments taking place around Grand
Terrace, but it seems like development is not occurring in the
City of Grand Terrace, itself.
Stop Sign Mayor Matteson requested a report on the proposed stop sign on
Mt. Vernon and Brentwood. The City Engineer advised that about
a year ago a study was done on this intersection. It appears
that a stop sign with the current configuration at Brentwood
and Mt. Vernon is not advisable.
Police Report Mayor Matteson indicated that, in reading the police report, he
noticed the number of citizens who are calling suspicious
people and vehicles to the attention of the police for
investigation. He believes that the concern of the citizens is
one of the reasons there is such a low crime rate in Grand
Terrace.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/ 87
Page 13
NEW BUSINESS
Fee Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE,
CA, RESCINDING ORDINANCE NO. 101 AND ESTABLISHING A
COMPREHENSIVE SCHEDULE FOR FEES, TAXES, AND FINES FOR PERMITS,
LICENSES, SERVICES, FACILILTIES AND ACTIVITIES PROVIDED BY THE
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE.
The City Manager advised that the changes to the fee ordinance
were outlined in the Staff Report. In reviewing the changes,
he advised staff is projecting the sewer fee by one dollar in
order to build a reserve fund for the City's share in the
tertiary treatment plant. The proposed one -dollar increase
will provide a fund of approximately one hundred thousand
dollars by the time construction of the tertiary treatment
plant is underway.
Councilman Evans asked if the City Manager had an idea of what
the approximate cost would be for the City of Grand Terrace's
share of the tertiary plant. The City Manager advised that the
quote he has been given in 1987 dollars was two millions
dollars. The facility will be constructed with bonds. The one
hundred thousand dollars will help offset debt services of
these bonds.
The City Manager advised that the City of Grand Terrace no
longer uses the County to administer home occupation permits.
Council decided to handle home occupation permits by City Staff
and set the fee at fifty dollars per year. This provides for
survey of the area in which a person is going to have a home
occupation to check with the neighbors to see if the type of
occupation proposed would be a problem to them. The fee has
been set by Council, but has not been included in the
ordinance.
The City Manager advised that recently Council had adjusted the
way in which the City will collect on delinquent sewer
accounts. This policy is being included in the ordinance.
The City Manager advised that we do not currently have a fee
schedule set for public documents such as the Municipal Code,
zone Map, etc. Staff has prepared a fee schedule which is
being included in the ordinance.
CC-87-68 Motion by Councilman Evans, second by Mayor Pro Tem
Pfennighausen, ALL AYES, that the proposed fee ordinance be
given first reading and a public hearing set for the Council
meeting of May 28, 1987 at 6:30 p.m.
11
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 14
Six -Month The City Manager advised that the six-month moratorium placed
Moratorium on the R-3 Development west of the I-215 Freeway expired May 8,
1987. With the expiration of this moratorium, R-3 Development
t can proceed in this area. The City Manager advised he would
like Council to discuss the moratorium and determine whether or
not to extend the moratorium. This direction is requested so
administration can provide the proper information to the
developers.
Councilwoman Crawford indicated, in view of the fact that
nothing has been resolved, she would like to extend the
moratorium until the General Plan has been amended.
CC-87-69 Motion by Councilwoman Crawford, second by Mayor Matteson, that
the moratorium on R-3 development west of the I-215 Freeway be
extended until the finalization of the General Plan Update.
Councilman Grant indicated he feels there is a conflict between
desire for the revision of the General Plan to bring the
picture into perspective and the hardship created on those
owning land in this area who wished to develop their land.
Councilman Grant indicated he feels the extension of the
moratorium would continue this hardship.
Mayor Matteson indicated he felt the extension of the
moratorium may create a temporary hardship on the property
owners, however, if it is not checked out completely, it may
create a hardship on the entire population of the City of Grand
Terrace in the future.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen stated that each project could be
reviewed on an individual basis. iShe further indicated she did
not feel people realize the hardship placed on property owners
of undeveloped properties because of the moratorium. Further,
she felt the moratorium was not accomplishing anything and
questioned whether all the property owners in this area should
suffer because of a moratorium put in place because of one
development.
Councilman Evans questioned whether any projects for R-3
Development west of I-215 Freeway have been presented since the
expiration of the moratorium.
The City Engineer advised they have received no new proposals
for consideration in this area. However, they have received
inquiries as to the status of previous projects.
The City Manager indicated there is no development proposals
before staff at this time. However, there have been inquiries
from property owners in this area asking whether they can
submit their project or whether the moratorium would apply.
Staff is looking for direction on how to reply to citizens with
proposed projects for this area.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/ 87
Page 15
Councilman Evans indicated he believes Council has created
undue hardship for both parties. He also concurred with Mayor
Pro Tem Pfennighausen's position that all projects will be
reviewed. Councilman Evans indicated he felt we would probably
be in a better position to review the project when the
amendment to the General Plan is completed and this will be
done before any projects may come in for review.
Shirley Hogue
Ms. Hogue indicated they had a project that was ready to be
11955 Rosedale
presented for consideration before the moratorium was put in
Avenue
place. Ms. Hogue questioned why, if Council was going to place
a moratorium on this particular area, they didn't consider
placing a moratorium on Mt. Vernon and Canal. She indicated
there is probably as much of a problem in that area as there is
in their area. She suggested that if Council was going to
place a moratorium on the property west of I-215 Freeway, they
should consider placing a moratorium on all R-3 properties in
the City itself.
Ken McClellen
Mr. McClellen indicated the problem, as he sees it, is the
21882 Grand
moratorium has been in placed for six months and the homeowners
Terrace Road
in this area did not have input into the General Plan update
for the last six months. The homeowners were able to provide
some input at the May 12, 1987 public meeting with the
consultant. He indicated they will probably never be able to
satisfy the people who live there and want to maintain their
style of living and the people who wish to develop the
property. He thought they had come up with an acceptable
solution with their recommendations, that being to rezone both
sides of the street to R-2 which could preclude apartment
developments but allows four plexes and duplexes, etc. They
feel this will satisfy the majority of the people in this
area. Mr. McClellan suggested Council wait until the General
Plan is completed for that area and then make a decision. The
homeowners will abide by any decision reached following the
amount of input they are being allowed because they will not
have any choice.
Ms. Hogue
Ms. Hogue advised they own property on Vivienda and La Crosse.
11955 Rosedale
They purchased this property for R-3 purposes and they would
like to see it remain R-3.
Councilman Evans indicated that the consultants were directed
to review the area in question first. He requested an update
on the status with the consultant's study.
The City Manager advised that is the first area the
consultants will be reviewing. They have been asked to prepare
a schedule for a specific time as to when they will have that
area completed as well as the entire General Plan amendment.
They felt the review of that area, with all the public hearing
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 16
required, will take sixty to ninety days before completion. He
is going to provide a firm time frame for the City Manager's
i nformation.
Councilman Evans indicated that the consultant was asked to
adddress that area initially. He questioned whether or not
they had formed any ideas to this time.
The City Manager advised that the consultant does have ideas in
this area; however, the original time frame did not include
Council's or citizens' input required. When Council amended
the type of input required into the General Plan, it set the
consultant's time frame back.
Councilman Evans suggested that this item be continued until
the next Council meeting and that we have the consultant
present to present their proposals in this area.
Councilwoman Crawford withdrew her motion, with the second
concurring.
Council concurred that there will be no action taken on this
item at this meeting and that the consultants be invited to the
next Council meeting with their proposals for this area.
Councilman Evans indicated he would like to see the
consultant's preliminary proposals before the meeting.
AB 1608 Mayor Matteson introduced the subject of AB 1608 which relates
to the improvements of the overall safety of our roadways in
California. The City Manager indicated this is legislation
currently being considered which would broaden the power of the
CHP to allow them to remove unsafe vehicles from the highway.
Currently, their authority is only in the commercial vehicle
area.
Mayor Matteson suggested that the proposed bill would allow the
local sheriff to have the same authority�as the CHP.
Councilwoman Crawford suggested that, the way the proposed bill
is written, it would not affect the City of Grand Terrace as it
applies only to Los Angeles County.
Councilman Evans indicated that until he had more information,
he would not be in a position to support this proposed bill.
He feels we have adequate provision currently in the California
Vehicle Code that gives all police officers the right to site
for defective equipment, whether it is private or commercial.
He further suggested when he read Los Angeles County he
interpreted this to say they are giving special treatment to
Los Angeles County. If this is a good piece of legislation, it
should include this entire State.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 17
Mayor Pro Tern Pfennighausen suggested that Council take no
action on this item. Councilmembers concurred with this
suggestion.
AB 2190 The City Clerk advised that AB 2190 is a proposed amendment to
the Election Code which would dictate that each city would be
managed by the City Council and City Manager form of government
and that their Council members would be elected from single
member districts. This matter was being presented to Council
as they may wish to deal with the principal involved in that
the right for citizens to choose their form of government and
their method of electing their Councilmembers may be
eliminated. The City Clerk also mentioned that the bill has
been amended to apply only to cities of twenty-five thousand
populations. This bill may never apply to the City of Grand
Terrace; however, Council may wish to respond to the principal
involved.
Mayor Pro Tem Pfennighausen indicated that it may today apply
to cities of twenty-five thousand, tomorrow it may apply to any
city. They should never take away our rights to determine how
we select our Council and what form of election we would hold.
CC-87-70 Motion by Mayor Pro Tern Pfennighausen, second by Councilman
Evans, ALL AYES, that Council approve the resolution opposing
AB 2190 and that Council's position on this bill be brought to
the attention of State Assemblyman Jerry Eaves, William Leonard
and members of the Ways and Means Committee.
Mayor Pro Tern Pfennighausen continued by saying that she also
suggested that every Councilmember and every citizen send a
letter to Sacramento opposing AB 2190.
Solicitors The City Manager advised that Staff has received a request from
Permit Mr. Nichols for a permit to solicit. Mr. Nichols proposes to
solicit door to door in order to sell home security systems.
According to Grand Terrace Code, when a request is received for
a soliciting permit, we have the Sheriff's Department
investigate the individual and advise if they have any
objection to issuance of the solicitation permit. The City
Manager also noted that Mr. Nichols did not pay the application
fee as there is a provision in the Code for honorably
discharged veterans not to pay the application fee. However,
Mr. Nichols will be required to pay a fee of twenty-seven
dollars per quarter if he obtains the permit.
Councilman Evans questioned whether it was standard policy for
solicitation permits to be approved by Council. The City
Attorney advised it was not common practice. Councilman Evans
suggested that, in a City of our size, Staff could grant a
solicitation permit once they have taken the necessary steps to
investigate the credibility of the individual who is applying
P11
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/ 87
Page 18
for the permit. If nothing else, Councilman Evans suggested
that items of this nature should be on the Consent Calendar.
Councilwoman Crawford questioned where this business is
located. The City Manager advised the home address is listed
on De Berry Street. Councilwoman Crawford questioned whether
there was any knowledge of this mans reputation within the home
alarm industry. The City Manager advised that we do not check
the credibility of the business. We do check to see if the
individual himself has any outstanding complaints.
Councilman Grant indicated he feels that authorizing Staff to
make the decision on solicitation permits on a routine basis
without bringing it to Council for consideration is putting an
unfair burden on Staff. This is different than other decisions
that Staff has to make. He feels this kind of issue should
continue to be brought before this Council. As far as this
particular issue is concern, Councilman Grant indicated he
would support Staff's recommendation.
CC-87-71 Motion by Councilman Grant, second by Mayor Matteson, that the
Council approve the permit to solicit submitted by Mr. Nichols.
Mayor Matteson indicated he took exception to Councilman
Grant's suggestion that Staff may make a mistake and Council
would not do so. Councilman Grant indicated he did not say
that. He did say he felt it was unfair for Council to back
down on their responsibility by placing an unfair burden on
Staff to make a decision with regard to issuing a solicitation
permit. Mayor Matteson suggested these are routine matters and
that Staff could handle applications for solicitation permits
without bringing them to Council.
Councilman Evans asked the City Attorney if, legally, the
Council could deny a solicitor's permit and, if so, what is the
criteria. The City Attorney indicated Council would have to
have a pretty good cause to deny the proposal before them
because it would probably be a violation of some provision of
the United States Constitution. In some instances, there is
cause to deny the application; however, he did not feel this
situation was one of those. He suggested Council could put
reasonable restrictions on a soliciting permit to protect the
citizens of the City. Councilman Evans suggested, from the
City Attorney's comments, authorizing solicitation permits is
becoming a routine matter and there is very little reason we
could deny it. As it is becoming more routine, perhaps Staff
could be directed to handle it and not take up Council's time.
If Council must deal with it, put it on the Consent Calendar.
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/87
Page 19
Councilman Grant questioned whether any decision as to whether
we place these items on the Consent Calendar or whether we
leave it up to Staff could be made tonight. The City Attorney
advised that placing matters of this nature on the Consent
Calendar is no different than placing it on the agenda itself.
However, if Council wished to make a resolution with regards to
authorizing the Staff to approve solicitation permits that
could not be handled tonight as it is not on the agenda. For
the record, Councilman Grant indicated he is in opposition to
the City Manager having this unfair responsibility. This
Council is reneging on its responsibility and he thinks it is
taking the easy way out.
Motion CC-87-71 carried ALL AYES.
Mayor Matteson advised that Council is now going into closed
session.
Councilman Grant indicated his understanding was that we had
two items for closed session, one being personnel and one being
potential litigation. Councilman Grant questioned whether the
personnel matter is primarily a personnel issue or a budget
issue. If this is a budget issue, he saw no purpose in taking
it to closed session.
Councilman Evans indicated he concurred with Councilman Grant
and that his interpretation is that this is a budgetary item
and should be discussed in open session.
The City Attorney advised budgetary items cannot be discussed
in closed session. As to personnel , you can discuss matters of
performance and evaluation and so forth in closed session. If
you are going to discuss the establishment of the salary, that
is a budgetary issue and you have to do that in an open
session. This could not be done tonight as there is not an
agenda item. Councilman Grant indicated he feels the question
of salary for personnel should be discussed in open session.
Councilman Evans suggested that Council consider and discuss
salary in conjunction with the budget discussion.
Council went into closed session at 8:18 p.m.
Council reconvened at 8:30 p.m.
Mayor Matteson advised that Council had discussed matters of
litigation in closed session.
L
Council Minutes - 5/14/87
Page 20
J
CC-87-72 Motion by Councilman Evans, second by Mayor Pro Tem
Pfennighuasen, ALL AYES, that Council authorize Staff to offer
settlement to Colton of $99,384.99 and that the $99,384.99 be
appropriated from the sewer fund reserve for this purpose.
CC-87-73 Motion by Councilman Evans, second by Mayor Pro Tem
Pfennighausen, ALL AYES, that Council appropriate $1,800 for
slopes stabililty and analysis from unappropriated balance from
the General Fund.
The meeting adjourned at
meeting of May 18, 1987
P.m.
8: 35 p.m. to be adjourned Council
at 5:30 p.m. and May 26, 1987 at 7:30
Respectfully submitted:
APPROVED:
Council Minutes - 5/ 14/ 87
Page 21