HomeMy WebLinkAbout090799cc_CCv0001.pdf MINUTES of a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Redlands held in the
Council Chambers, Civic Center, 35 Cajon Street, at 3:00 P.M. on September 7,
1999.
PRESENT William E. Cunningham, Mayor
Geni A. S. Banda, Mayor Pro Tem
Pat Gilbreath, Councilmember
John L. Freedman, Councilmember
Gary George, Councilmember
Gary M. Luebbers, City Manager
Daniel J. McHugh, City Attorney
Lorrie Poyzer, City Clerk
Beatrice Sanchez, Deputy City Clerk
(evening session)
Michael Reynolds, City Treasurer
Jim Bueermann, Police Chief
Mel Enslow, Fire Chief
Bonnie Johnson, Finance Director
Ronald C. Mutter,Public Works Director
Gary G. Phelps, Municipal Utilities Director
Jeffrey L. Shaw, Community Development Director
ABSENT None
The meeting was opened with an invocation by Councilmember Freedman
followed by the pledge of allegiance.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Minutes - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by
Councilmember Freedman, the minutes of the special meeting of July 29, 1999,
the regular meeting of August 3, 1999, and the special meeting of August 1.1,
1999, were approved as submitted.
Bills and Salaries - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by
Councilmember Freedman,bills and salaries were ordered paid.
Planning Commission Actions - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the report of the Planning Commission
meeting held on August 10, 1999, was acknowledged as received.
Environmental Review Committee - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the report of the Environmental
Review Committee meeting held August 23, 1999, and the agenda for the
September 7, 1999
Page 1
Environmental Review Committee meeting to be held on September 13, 1999,
were acknowledged as received.
September 7, 1999
Page 2
Ordinance No. 2416 - Laser Devices - Ordinance No. 2416, an ordinance of the
City of Redlands adding Chapter 9.21 to the Redlands Municipal Code
regulating the use of Laser Devices, was adopted on motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman,by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Banda, Gilbreath, Freedman, George;
Mayor Cunningham
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Ordinance No. 2419 - Ultralight Aircraft - Ordinance No. 2419, an ordinance of
the City of Redlands amending Chapter 12.56 of the Redlands Municipal Code
relating to the operation of ultralight aircraft at the Redlands Municipal Airport,
was adopted on motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by
Councilmember Freedman, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Banda, Gilbreath, Freedman, George;
Mayor Cunningham
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Contract Award - Fire Station Door Enlargements - Bids were opened and
publicly declared on July 29, 1999, by the City Clerk for the construction of the
Fire Station No. 1 door enlargements project; a bid opening report is on file in
the Office of the City Clerk. It was the recommendation of the Public Works
Department that the responsible bidder submitting the bid for said project which
will result in the lowest cost for the City was Moody Construction, Banning, in.
the amount of $25,500.00, and it would be in the best interest of the City that
this contract be awarded to said firm. On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, this recommendation was unanimously
approved and the Mayor and City Clerk were authorized to sign the contract on.
behalf of the City.
Funds - University of Redlands Contribution - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously accepted the voluntary contribution from the University of
Redlands and authorized additional appropriations in the amount of$40,000.00
distributed as follows: $10,000.00 to the Redlands Fire Department to procure
a truck to haul the Life Safety trailer; $10,000.00 to the Redlands Police
Department for the purpose of remodeling the substation located on North
Orange Street; and $20,000.00 to the A. K. Smiley Public Library to enhance
the library's "Acquisition and Materials Fund."
Resolution No. 5672 - Street Vacation No. 114 - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, Resolution No. 5672, a
resolution of the City Council of the City of Redlands declaring its intention to
vacate a remnant portion of public right-of.-way located at the most northerly
terminus of Margarita Drive (Osborne Development, applicant) and setting the
September 7, 1999
Page 3
public hearing for this street vacation for October 5, 1999, at 7:00 P.M., was
unanimously adopted.
Resolution No. 5679 - Permit Fees - Following brief discussion,
Councilmember Gilbreath moved to adopt Resolution No. 5679, a resolution of
the City of Redlands amending processing fees for the Community
Development Department for Home Occupation Permits and Banner Permits.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Freedman and carried unanimously.
Resolution No. 5684 - Salary - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council unanimously adopted
Resolution No. 5684, a resolution of the City of Redlands rescinding Resolution
Nos. 5657 and 5671 establish a salary schedule and compensation plan for City
employees. This salary resolution changes the following: the transfer of the
Management Information Systems Division from the Municipal Utilities
Department to the Finance Department; the transfer of the Equipment
Maintenance Division from the Municipal Utilities Department to the City
Manager's Office; an increase for the Management Information Systems
Administrator from MM 54 to MM 56; the addition of a Code Enforcement
Officer position and the upgrade of the existing Code Enforcement Officer
position to a Senior Code Enforcement Officer; the addition of one Police
Officer which was recently approved as part of an ABC grant; the creation of an
hour salary rate of$9.90 for the Police Cadet positions which are fully funded
under AB 3229; the change in title for the Police Records Clerk position in
Animal Control to an Administrative Clerk; and changes to salary ranges for
cost of living adjustments previously approved in employment agreements with
all the bargaining units.
Funds - Hazmat Cleanup at Hillside Memorial Park - On motion of
Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City
Council unanimously approved an appropriation of $15,000.00 from the
Cemetery Fund for Hazmat investigation and cleanup of an underground fuel
storage tank at Hillside Memorial Park.
Agreement - Inland Empire Stars Baseball - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously approved a rental agreement between the City of Redlands
Recreation Bureau and Inland Empire Stars Baseball and authorized the Mayor
and City Clerk to sign the agreement on behalf of the City.
Resolution No. 5683 - Speed Limits - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council unanimously adopted
Resolution No. 5683, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redlands
establishing traffic regulations pursuant to Title 10 of the Redlands Municipal
Code: establish speed limits on Wabash Avenue between Fifth Avenue and
Sessums Drive.
September 7, 1999
Page 4
Claim - Reimbursement of SANBAG Funds - Public Works Director Mutter
reported that SANBAG makes approximately $5,000.00 available annually for
the City to use for construction of curb ramps to retrofit existing intersection
corners. The City cannot request this money until after construction has been
completed. Construction has been completed to retrofit 30 corners with curb
ramps for a total construction cost of$38,255.00. Councilmember Banda asked
if these funds could be applied toward the completion of the Herald Street
improvements. City Manager Luebbers said staff is also looking at CDBG and
Neighborhood funds to complete that project. Councilmember Banda moved to
authorize staff to file a claim for reimbursement from SANBAG for LTF
Article 3 funds as described above. Motion seconded by Councilmember
Freedman and carried unanimously.
Agreement - Right-of-Way Acquisition - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously ratified an executed agreement approved in a recent closed session
regarding purchase of fee interest between Fred J. and Anetha Stafford and the
City of Redlands for acquisition of right-of-way at Colton Avenue and Wabash
Avenue.
Agreement - Right-of-Way Acquisition - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously ratified an executed agreement approved in a recent closed session
regarding purchase of fee interest between Frank and Lydia Coyazo and the
City of Redlands for acquisition of right-of-way at Colton Avenue and Wabash
Avenue.
Funds - COPS MORE 98 - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded
by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council unanimously authorized the
Mayor to accept the Department of Justice COPS MORE 98 grant award of
$37,509.00 and authorized an additional appropriation of said funds to the
Police Department to fund the grant.
Proclamation - World Population Week - Following a reading of the
proclamation, Councilmember Banda moved to authorize issuance of a
proclamation declaring October 10-16, 1999, as World Population Awareness
Week. Motion seconded by Councilmember Freedman and carried
unanimously.
Resolution No. 5686 - Natural Disaster Assistance Act - On motion of
Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City
Council unanimously adopted Resolution No. 5686, a resolution of the City
Council of the City of Redlands authorizing designation of applicant's agent to
obtain Natural Disaster Assistance Act (NDAA 99-094) financial assistance due
to the severe thunderstorms that occurred on July 12, 1999.
September 7, 1999
Page 5
Fee Waiver - Girl Scouts of America - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council unanimously
approved the request by the Girl Scouts of America for waiver of reservation
fees for use of the Redlands :Bowl for their annual Night Hike program to be
held on October 16, 1999.
Note Agreement - Diana Heemstra - On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council unanimously
approved an extension of the maturity date on a note agreement between the
City of Redlands and Diana Heemstra from September 1, 1999, to October 15,
1999; and further authorized staff to prepare the appropriate documents for
execution by the Mayor and City Clerk.
Agreement - California Street Landfill - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously authorized an engineering services agreement with Vector
Engineering, Inc. to furnish engineering services for the California Street
Landfill Horizontal Expansion Project.
Annexation. Area No. 72 - Solid Waste Service - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously authorized the Municipal Utilities Department to proceed with
assumption and implementation of solid waste service in Annexation Area
No. 72.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Conditional Use Permit No. 677 - Time Extension - On motion of
Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City
Council unanimously approved a one-year time extension for Conditional Use
Permit No. 677 extending approval until August 10, 2000. This CUP is for an
1.1,079 square foot church on approximately 2.12 acres located on the southwest
corner of Ford Street and Highland Avenue (Redlands United Pentecostal
Church, applicant).
Minor Subdivision No. 244 - Time Extension - On motion of Councilmember
Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, the City Council
unanimously approved a one-year time extension for Minor Subdivision
No. 244, extending tentative approval until August 12, 2000. This is an
application for a parcel map for the purpose of merging two existing lots of
record as one parcel located at 250 Terracina Boulevard (Redlands Community
Hospital, applicant).
COMMUNICATIONS
September 7, 1999
Page 6
Legislative Bulletins - Councilmember Freedman reviewed the League of
California Cities position opposing AB 1553 noting that this bill only applies to
an unincorporated island within the City of Redlands, but all cities should
oppose it due to the many bad precedents in this bill. He urged citizens to
contact the Governor and urge him to veto this bill. Councilmember Banda also
reported on the local League committee's stand opposing this bill and provided
address, telephone and facsimile numbers to the Governor's office.
Pre-Annexation. Agreement No. 99-03 - Mountainview Power Company -
Community Development Director Shaw reported that several meetings have
been held with representatives of Mountainview Power Company regarding the
annexation of an 81 acre area located at the northeast corner of Mountain View
and San Bernardino Avenues on the western edge of the City. As a result of
these meetings, it was agreed that the most productive course of action was to
have Mountainview Power prepare and submit a development agreement and an
zoning ordinance text amendment which would address their concerns. In
addition, it was agreed they would submit a pre-annexation agreement which.
would ensure their willingness to annex to the City if the development
agreement and zoning ordinance text amendment were approved. City Attorney
McHugh suggested one additional provision be added: a defend and indemnify
clause that is Mountainview's responsibility. Following brief discussion,
Councilmember Gilbreath moved to approve the pre-annexation agreement as
submitted by Mountainview Power Company, LLC with the indemnification
clause and directed staff to process the related development agreement and
zoning ordinance text amendment. Motion seconded by Councilmember
Freedman and carried unanimously.
Crafton Hills Road Extension -Public Works Director Mutter reviewed his staff
report addressing traffic concerns on the Hampton.Heights project located along
Sand Canyon Road near Crafton Hills College. It is believed by the staff from
both the City and the County of San Bernardino that Crafton Hills Road should
be extended westerly to a connection with Wabash Avenue and Reservoir Road
at Interstate 10. Councilmember Cunningham moved to support a connection of
Crafton Hills Road from the Hampton Heights project to the Wabash
Avenue/Reservoir Road intersection at Interstate 10 with mitigation measures
of installation of a westbound freeway onramp at this intersection and whatever
other mitigations are necessary to alleviate problems on Reservoir Road.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Freedman and carried unanimously.
Inland Empire Annual Survey - SANBAG - City Manager Luebbers reported
that SANBAG has been a major sponsor of the Inland Empire Annual Survey
which is conducted to measure public perception about quality of life and public
services in San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. In the past, cities have
indicated a desire to have valid survey results on a City-by-City basis.
Therefore, SANBAG will provide member jurisdictions the opportunity to
increase the survey sample within their jurisdiction in order to obtain
September 7, 1999
Page 7
statistically valid City data. The cost to interested cities will be $3,000.00 to
$4,000.00 per jurisdiction, depending on the increased number of survey
samplings required within specific jurisdictions. Mayor Cunningham
commented that although this is an exhaustive survey, as it is now, it is not very
formative. He suggested holding off action on this request for further
information as how it would focus on Redlands. Councilmember Banda moved
to table this matter to the September 21, 1999, meeting. Motion seconded by
Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously.
I-10 Soundwalls - Public Works Director Mutter reported Caltrans has
developed a master plan for the ultimate widening and improvement of
Interstate 10 through Redlands. This plan calls for an initial widening to four
lanes with ultimate widening to five lanes in each direction. As part of the
environmental mitigation required for a freeway widening project, Caltrans
must look at the construction of soundwalls along areas developed with
residential neighborhoods to mitigate noise impacts associated with increased
freeway capacity. Staff has met with Caltrans' representatives to identify these
residential areas and locate possible soundwalls. Those areas generally include
the entire northerly side of the freeway between Sixth Street and Highland
Avenue and the southerly side of the freeway between Central Avenue and
Highland Avenue. Public Works Director Mutter explained the proposed walls
would be typical of those built along freeways in Southern California. They are
generally constructed of concrete block materials to a height of 12 feet. Staff
agrees with the need for soundwalls, but has reservations regarding the height
along the elevated section of the freeway. Motorists driving through Redlands
are currently afforded a view of greenery as they overlook the City. With the
walls, all motorists will see are concrete block walls with the pavement. There
will be no landscaping along the internal portion of the freeway through this
area. The view from the residential areas will also be hampered with an
additional 12-foot height added to the existing elevated freeway. Mayor
Cunningham remarked on the input from residents in the Wimbleton Heights
area he has received about freeway noise. Public Works Director Mutter noted
this phase does not go beyond Highland Avenue. Councilmember George
wanted to give the citizens an opportunity to review these plans and comment.
By unanimous consensus, the City Council continued this matter to October 5,
1999.
Automated Unicom - Redlands Municipal Airport - Public Works Director
Mutter reported Redlands Aviation has proposed to purchase a Super Unicom in
lieu of the City making the purchase of a simple Unicom station. The greatest
advantage to this system is that it provides 24-hour operation with an expanded
range of data, far more than is currently available. Redlands Aviation will
continue to operate the Unicom and the City will continue to provide the
Unicom operation payments as specified in the lease. The Airport Advisory
Board voted unanimously on May 5, 1999, to recommend approval of the
purchase of the new Unicom equipment for the Redlands Municipal Airport.
September 7, 1999
Page 8
Councilmember Freedman moved to approve the request of Redlands Aviation
to install, operate and maintain an automated Unicom at Redlands Municipal
Airport. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried
unanimously.
Vine Street Name Change - C. Alton Robertson, President of the Redlands
Sister Cities Association, reported on their long-standing request that two
streets in the City of Redlands be named for Redlands' sister cities in
recognition of our long and important relationship with them. Early in August,
they suggested renaming the section of Vine Street between Cajon and Fourth
Streets Hino, and the section between Fourth and Eureka Streets San Miguel de
Allende. Following an article in local newspapers, the Redlands Area Historical
Society, the Smiley Library Board, the Historic and Scenic Preservation
Commission, and the Redlands Chamber of Commerce have publicly opposed
this suggestion and suggested pursuit of alternatives. Eleven telephone calls and
two letters to the Office of the City Council were received opposed to changing
the name of Vine Street. At this time, Mr. Robertson withdrew his proposal,
and said he would meet with the Redlands Area Historical Society on October
5, 1999, to discuss alternatives. Liz Beguelin, Redlands Area Historical Society,
confirmed this meeting and suggested also inviting the Redlands Horticultural
Society to work with them. Chris Gallacher addressed the City Council asking
them not to change the name of Vine Street. Her great-grandfather, George
Stevens Hinckley, Redlands City Engineer from 1908-1947, pioneered the
white line on roads to guide traffic. This white line was used for the first time
on Vine Street and she urged the City Council to preserve the name for its
historical values to Redlands and for what it represents to her and her family.
Sister City Garden - Public Works Director Mutter reported the Redlands Sister
Cities Association asked the Parks Commission for permission to place two
large rocks with plaques attached in the small garden area adjacent to the
General Telephone building in the Smiley Park. One plaque would name the
garden "The Ellis Crane Garden" in honor of the first president of the Redlands
Sister Cities Association who established the relationship with Hino, Japan.
The second plaque would be in memory of Mrs. Toshiko Nakada, the long-time
Chair of the Hino-Redlands Friendship Committee from Hino. The Parks
Commission considered this request at their meeting held on August 12, 1999.
The Commission felt that the :Donor Wall Program, as approved by the City
Council, sets the guidelines for installation of any plaque in the City's parks, and
that any request for the installation of plaques should comply with the
provisions of the Donor Wall program. Councilmember Freedman moved to
refer this request back to staff and the Parks Commission for further study.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Banda and carried unanimously.
Tree Policies - Public Works Director Mutter reported the Street Tree
Committee has defined a number of areas of concern regarding the overall
operation and maintenance of the City's urban forest. These areas of concern
September 7, 1999
Page 9
have been prioritized and the Committee is working on policies for each. The
first two areas completed include tree versus hardscapes such as the conflicts
between trees and sidewalks or curbs, and the second regards pruning of tree
roots. The Street Tree Committee referred these two policies to the Parks
Commission who recommended approval and implementation of both policies
on August 12, 1999. The Parks Commission and Public Works Director Mutter
commended the members of the Street Tree Committee for their hard work and
diligence in this effort. Councilmember Gilbreath moved to approve the policies
for Tree/Hardscape Conflicts and for Root Pruning specifications, contingent on
funding for implementation being authorized through the normal budget
process. Motion seconded by Councilmember Banda and carried unanimously.
Prospect Park Pavilion - Public Works Director Mutter reported Friends of
Prospect Park have requested reimbursement of building permit fees in the
amount of$189.53 for the construction of an outdoor pavilion in Prospect Park.
The pavilion will be located in the upper portion of Prospect Park, northerly of
the Carriage House and near the Lawson Gardens, and will be donated to the
City when completed. Staff and the Parks Commission think the pavilion will
be an asset to Prospect Park. Councilmember Gilbreath moved to accept the
offer of the Friends of Prospect Park to construct the pavilion and authorized
reimbursement of the building permit fees. Motion seconded by
Councilmember Freedman and carried unanimously.
Adopt-A-Park Program - With various strategies outlined in the City
Community Policing Program, Corporal Rick Hulbert has developed a concept
for a public-private partnership in the long-term care and maintenance of the
City's park system. Public Works Director Mutter said his department and the
Police Department, under Police Chief Bueermann's direction, have committed
considerable resources to improving the safety and security of Redlands' parks
for the benefit of residents who use these facilities for recreation, family
outings, youth activities, nature study, and relaxation. The goal of the Adopt-A-
Park program is to involve the different communities of Redlands in
maintaining and improving our parks over the long-term. Commending staff and
the Parks Commission for their efforts, Councilmember Gilbreath moved to
approve the Adopt-A-Park Program which will be administered by the Public
Works Department. Motion seconded by Councilmember Freedman and carried
unanimously.
Fee Waiver - Alzheimer's Association - Councilmember Banda moved to
approve the request from the Alzheimer's Association to waive the rental fee for
use of barricades at their 5K Run/Walk on. October 2, 1999.. Motion seconded
by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously.
JOINT MEETING-CITY COUNCIL AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
September 7, 1999
Page 10
Resolution No. 5682 - Great Neighborhoods Program - Councilmember Banda
moved to adopt Resolution No. 5682, a resolution of the City Council of the
City of Redlands authorizing the use of low- and moderate-income housing
funds outside the Redlands Project Area for the Great Neighborhoods Program
to implement an additional seven participant agreements which will be acted
upon by the Board of Directors of the Redevelopment Agency. Motion
seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously. (Also see
Redevelopment Agency minutes for September 7, 1999.)
CLOSED SESSION
The City Council meeting recessed at 4:25 P.M. to continue the Redevelopment
Agency meeting and reconvened at 4:31 P.M. to a closed session to hold a
conference with its legal counsel as follows:
- Existing litigation - Government Code Section 54956.9(a): Juarez/Macias v.
City of Redlands - Case No. SCV 53458 and SCV 53457 respectively
The meeting reconvened at 7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Appeal - Conditional Use Permit No. 688 - Public hearing was continued to this
time and place to hear an appeal to the Planning Commission decision of June
8, 1999, to approve a conditional use permit for a billiard room in the C-2
(Neighborhood Convenience) District at 1544 Orange Street; Ezequiel Ocampo,
applicant. The City Council appealed this decision to afford an opportunity to
review the project and consider neighborhood concerns. On July 20, 1999, the
City Council, after review this proposal and taking into consideration testimony
from other tenants within this existing Neighborhood Convenience Shopping
Center, continued this item to August 3, 1999, at which time the City Council
continued the public hearing to this time. In the interim, the applicant was
allowed to operate under the conditions of the Planning Commission's approval.
During this period of time, the Police Department was directed to prepare a
report on the activities that led to the closure of the billiard hall on San Mateo
Street and Brookside Avenue and to monitor this site relative to any negative
impacts that may occur during this time span. The report prepared by the Police
Department was provided to the City Council. Mayor Cunningham declared the
meeting open as a public hearing for any questions or comments. None being
forthcoming, the public hearing was declared closed. Councilmember Gilbreath
moved to approve Conditional Use Permit No. 688 based on the following
findings:
1. That the use applied for at this location set forth in the application is a
proper one for which a conditional use permit is authorized by this title
because it is identified as a potential use in this zone district subject to a
conditional use permit.
September 7, 1999
Page 11
2. That the use is necessary and desirable for the development of the
community, is in harmony with the various elements or objectives of the
General Plan, and will not be detrimental to existing uses in the zone in
which the proposed use is to be located because the proposed use is
compatible with the uses in the shopping center and surrounding
neighborhood.
3. That the site for the intended use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate the use and other features required in order to adjust the use
to those existing or permitted future uses within this existing neighborhood
shopping center because the proposed use is located within an existing
tenant space of an existing commercial center which, when approved, met
all required development standards for this district, and the proposed use has
been designed to fit within the proposed tenant space.
4. That the site for the proposed use relates to streets and highways that are
properly designed and improved to carry the type and quantity of traffic
generated or to be generated by the proposed use.
5. That the conditions set forth and recommended on June 8, 1999,. by the
Planning Commission in the permit, with the addition of Condition of
Approval No. 13 to read: "No sale or consumption of alcohol on the
premises," are necessary to protect the public health, safety, or general
welfare.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Banda and carried with Councilmember
Freedman voting NO.
Tentative Tract No. 1601.5 - Gardner Construction - Public hearing was
advertised for this time and place to consider the Socio-Economic Cost Benefit
Study, Tentative Tract No. 16015, and an accompanying Negative Declaration
for a subdivision of 19.45 acres into 62 residential lots and one lettered lot in
the R-1 (Single Family Residential) District on property located on the north
side of Pioneer Avenue, east of Duke Street. Community Development Director
Shaw reviewed the application and the Planning Commission's recommendation
for approval. Mayor Cunningham declared the meeting open as a public
hearing for any questions or comments. Mark Gardner, the applicant, thanked
staff, especially Community Development Director Shaw and Senior Planner
Bob Dalquest, for their assistance and informed the City Council they will
accept all conditions set forth. There being no further comments, the public
hearing was declared closed. Councilmember Freedman moved to approve the
Environmental Review Committee's Negative Declaration for Tentative Tract
No. 16015 based on the finding that the project will not have a significant effect
on the environment, determining this project will not individually or
cumulatively have an adverse impact on wildlife resources as defined in Section
711.2 of the California Fish and Game Code and directed staff to file and post a
Notice of Determination in accordance with the City's guidelines. Motion
seconded by Councilmember George and carried unanimously. Councilmember
Freedman moved to approve the Socio-Economic Cost Benefit Study for
Tentative Tract No. 16015 as the project will not create immitigable physical
September 7, 1999
Page 12
blight or over-burden public services in the community, and no additional
information or evaluation is needed, and that the proposed project, based on the
overall Fiscal Impact Analysis, will provide the City with a positive annual
revenue/cost ratio of 1.123. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and
carried unanimously. Councilmember Freedman moved to approve Tentative
Tract No. 16015 subject to:
A. The conditions of approval contained in the staff report;
B. An additional condition (No. 21, Community Development Department,
Planning Division) to read: "That the segment of the regional trail depicted
on the General Plan for the subject site shall be designed, submitted,
approved and installed subject to the review and approval of the Community
Development Director and Public Works Director. The applicant may
provide surety in the form of a bond for the future improvement if it is
determined that it would be best to install this segment of the trail at a later
date.'; and
C. The following findings:
1. That the proposed tentative map is consistent with the policies, land
use designation, and density prescribed by the General Plan;
2. That the proposed project qualifies as "infill" in accordance with the
criteria established in Policy 2.2.3(a) of the Redlands Municipal Code
Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan;
3. That the design and improvements of the proposed subdivision are
consistent with City standards;
4. That the site is physically suitable for the type of development;
5. That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are
not likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially
and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat;
6. That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements will not
cause any serious public health problems;
7. That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will
not conflict with easements, acquired by the public at large, for access
through or use of, property within proposed subdivision; and
8. That pursuant to California Government Code Section 66474.6, the
discharge of waste from this subdivision apparently will not result in
violation of existing requirements prescribed by the Santa Ana
Regional Water Quality Control Board pursuant to Division 7 of the
California Water Code.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Banda and carried unanimously.
Tentative Tract No. 15937 - Curtis Development - Public hearing was
advertised for this time and place to consider the Socio-Economic Cost Benefit
Study, Tentative Tract No. 15937 and Conditional Use Permit No. 686, and
accompanying Negative Declaration for a Planned Residential Development for
the subdivision of 61.27 acres into 160 residential lots in the R-E (Residential
Estate) District for property generally located north of Lugonia Avenue, south
of San Bernardino Avenue, west of Wabash Avenue, and east of Dearborn
September 7, 1999
Page 13
Street. Citing a potential conflict of interest, Councilmember Banda left the City
Council Chambers. Community Development Director Shaw reviewed the
application and the Planning Commission's recommendation for approval.
Mayor Cunningham declared the meeting open as a public hearing for any
questions or comments. On behalf of the applicant, Pat Meyer asked the City
Council to consider amending the Municipal Utilities Department Condition
No. 1 regarding the Heritage Citrus Grove as they will not be able to plant until
spring of 2001. Al Kelley offered kudos to staff, the developer, and the City
Council for this project. There being no further comments, the public hearing
was declared closed. Councilmember George moved to approve Tentative
Tract No. 15937 with 160 or fewer lots subject to:
A. The conditions of approval contained in the staff report;
B. The following amended Condition of Approval: No. 13, Community
Development Department, Planning Division, to read: "To mitigate the
potential impact to agricultural resources identified in Section 1(d) of the
environmental checklist, Lots A-D, as identified on Tentative Tract No.
15937, and which total approximately ]3.01 acres, shall be required to be
planted with citrus trees and deed to the City to ensure permanent
preservation of viable citrus land (Mitigation Measure No. 1). This shall be
accomplished prior to the occupancy of the first resident and deeded to the
City prior to release of the Subdivision Bond. The City shall not accept the
citrus until its installation is approved by the Citrus Committee."; and
C. The following findings and
1. That the proposed map is consistent with the policies, land use
designation, and density prescribed by the General Plan;
2. That the design and improvements of the proposed subdivision are
consistent with City standards;
3. That the site is physically suitable for this type of development;
4. That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are not
likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and
avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat;
5. That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements will not
cause any serious public health problems;
6. That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will not
conflict with easements, acquired by the public at large, for access
through or use of property within the proposed subdivision; and
7. That pursuant to California Government Code Section 66474.6, the
discharge of waste from this subdivision apparently will not result in
violation of existing requirements prescribed by the Santa Ana Regional
Water Quality Control Board pursuant to Division 7 of the California
Water Code.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried with
Councilmember Banda having abstained. Councilmember George moved to
approve Conditional Use Permit No. 686 subject to the conditions of approval
contained in the staff report; subject to the following amended conditions of
approval:
September 7, 1999
Page 14
A. No. 16, Community Development Department, Planning Division, to read:
"To mitigate the potential impact to agricultural resources identified in
Section 1(d) of the environmental checklist, Lots A-D, as identified on
Tentative Tract No. 15937, and which total approximately 13.01 acres, shall
be required to be planted with citrus trees and deeded to the City to ensure
permanent preservation of viable citrus land (Mitigation Measure No. 1).
This shall be accomplished prior to the occupancy of the first resident and
deeded to the City prior to release of the Subdivision Bond. The City shall
not accept the citrus until its installation is approved by the Citrus
Committee."
B. No. 1 under the Citrus Groves Section to read: "Provide 'in fee' title to
approximately 13.02 acres of land to the City, to be designated as a
'Heritage Citrus Grove' as a condition of the tract map. The citrus trees shall.
be installed prior to the occupancy of the first resident and deeded to the
City prior to release of the Subdivision Bond. The City shall not accept the
citrus until the installation is approved by the Citrus Committee";
and subject to the following findings:
1. That the site for the intended use is adequate in size and shape to
accommodate the use and other features and is compatible with other
permitted future uses on the land and vicinity;
2. That the site for the proposed use relates to the streets and highways
properly designed to carry the type and quantity of traffic generated or to be
generated by the proposed use;
3. The use is desirable for the development of the community is consistent
with the policies and objectives of the Redlands General Plan and is not
detrimental to existing or planned uses in the vicinity of the proposed
project;
4. The proposed development is in compliance with the policies and standards
as identified in Section 18.1.44 (Planned Residential Development
standards) of the Redlands Municipal Code and Ordinance Text
Amendment No. 265 as adopted in Ordinance No. 2404; and
5. That the conditions set forth in the permit and shown on the approved site
plan are necessary to protect the public health, safety, or general welfare.
Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried with
Councilmember Banda having abstained.
Ordinance No. 2403 - Density Bonus - Public hearing was advertised for this
time and place to consider Ordinance No. 2403, an ordinance of the City of
Redlands adding Chapter 18.226 to the Redlands Municipal Code to establish
incentives (density bonus) for the production of very low, lower income and
senior housing, and an accompanying Negative Declaration. Stating this was a
complicated issue, Councilmember Freedman recommended continuance of this
matter to a study session to be held on November 16, 1999, at 9:00 A.M.
Councilmembers were in concurrence with the recommendation.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
September 7, 1999
Page 15
Certification of Referendum Petition - City Clerk Poyzer reported a petition
entitled Referendum Against a Legislative Act Passed by the City Council
purported to consist of an estimated 1,085 sections and an estimated 4,765 raw
signatures was filed in the City Clerk's Office on August 10, 1999, by Mark W.
Bulot, San Bernardino County Taxpayers Coalition. The legislative act is
described as an agreement for construction and operation of a home
improvement center and the provision of unrelated off-site improvements
between the City of Redlands and Lowe's HIW, Inc. The petition was
transported to the Registrar of Voters in San Bernardino for examination of the
signatures. At the request of the petitioners, the City Clerk began processing a
sample examination of 500 of the signatures as permitted by Section 9115 of the
California Election Code. On August 11, 1999, the City Council unanimously
directed the City Clerk to check all signatures on the petition and bill the costs
of the signature verification to the petitioners. The results of this examination
are as follows:
1. Number of registered voters residing within the City of Redlands: 32,929
2. Number of verified signatures filed by the proponents: 4,774
3. Number of minimum signatures required for a sufficient petition
pursuant to Section 9237 of the California Elections Code: 3,293
4. Number of sufficient signatures: 3,455
5. Number of insufficient signatures: 1,319
Number of insufficient signatures that were duplicates: (21)
Based on the information provided above, the petition was found to be
sufficient. A copy of the Certificate of Sufficiency executed by the City Clerk
is attached.
Referendum Legal Opinion - Following a review of existing law regarding the
referendum petition for the City's contract with Lowe's HIW, Inc. for the
sharing of sales taxes generated by the project, City Attorney McHugh
expressed the staffs opinion that the contract is not a proper subject for a
referendum. He summarized his memorandum dated September 2, 1999, citing
case law and answered the City Council's specific question, if the contract
between the City Council and Lowe's is administrative in nature, a court cannot
compel the City to submit that contract to a referendum vote. However, on the
other hand, if the contract is deemed a legislative act, then the matter is a proper
subject of referendum. In this case, the City Council adopted Resolution
No. 5658 on July 12, 1999, to establish a policy for the consideration of
financing proposals from new businesses proposing to locate in the City. That
resolution contained specific criteria and objectives which new businesses are
required to satisfy if their proposals are to be considered by the City. In the
City Attorney's opinion, that resolution established City legislative goals and
policies and would be a proper subject of referendum. By contrast, the contract
with Lowe's which the City Council approved on July 12, 1999, merely carried
out, as an administrative act, those goals and policies established by the City
September 7, 1999
Page 16
Council in its Resolution No. 5658. Therefore, the Lowe's contract, being an
administrative act, is not subject to referendum.
On behalf of the San Bernardino County Taxpayers Coalition, Mark Bulot
asked the City Council to place this matter on the ballot or re-negotiate an.
agreement with Lowe's that would not be a taxpayers' burden. He noted they
have a legal opinion explaining why this issue is subject to referendum. In
answer to the Mayor's question, Mr. Bulot indicated they desired to place this
matter on the ballot for the next general municipal election in November 2001.
Representing the San Bernardino County Taxpayers Coalition, Attorney
Bradley W. Hertz, Reed & Davidson, Los Angeles, referred to his letter dated
September 2, 1999, which disagreed with City Attorney McHugh's opinion.
Mayor Cunningham asked Mr. Hertz if Majestic Realty was his firm's client;
Mr. Hertz said that question was not relevant. Representing Lowe's, Attorney
Charles Berwanger, Higgs, Fletcher & Mack, San Diego, agreed with City
Attorney McHugh's opinion that this contract was not subject to the referendum
process. He stated that if litigation is commenced to compel an election, Lowe's
will provide a defense on the terms and conditions already agreed to. Mr.
Berwanger provided copies of his letter and a memorandum dated September 7,
1999, expressing his legal opinion on this matter. Councilmember Freedman
exhibited figures showing Lowe's impact on. Redlands and the estimated sales
tax revenue projected for the first four years. Councilmember Banda felt this
was a "bottom-line deal." Councilmember Gilbreath reiterated her position that
this contract was a subsidy. Noting that although he was not wildly enthused
about this contract, Councilmember George felt we needed to keep the deal in
place. Mayor Cunningham supported the two legal opinions from City Attorney
McHugh and Lowe's attorney Charles Berwanger.
Referendum Petition - Councilmember Freedman moved not to place the
petition entitled Referendum Against a Legislative Act Passed by the City
Council (described as an agreement for construction and operation of a home
improvement center and the provision of unrelated off-site improvements
between the City of Redlands and Lowe's HIW, Inc.) on a ballot. Motion
seconded by Councilmember Banda and carried with Councilmember Gilbreath
voting NO.
Rezoning - Regional Center- Councilmember Freedman moved to continue this
matter to October 5, 1999. Motion seconded by Councilmember Banda and
carried unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS
Krikorian Theatre Expansion - On behalf of the Downtown Redlands Business
Association's Board of Directors, Chairman Jim Cavanaugh reported the DRBA
discussed the expansion proposal of the Krikorian Theatre and wished to
express a public position of support. They felt the expansion of the theater is a
September 7, 1999
Page 17
positive move that supports and benefits all of the people of Redlands. DRBA
sees this project as a great opportunity to unify the historic downtown area with
future projects such as those supporting the Shopper's Lane as defined in
Specific Plan No. 45.
Ordinance No. 2420 - Mobilehome Rent Control Arbitration - City Attorney
McHugh reported that under the Redlands Municipal Code, the City is required,
from time to time, to retain an arbitrator to conduct proceedings associated with
rent stabilization disputes between mobilehome park owners and tenants. The
arbitrator is selected from a list of attorneys and retired Judges, and the services
of such persons are not inexpensive. Although the Code provides that at the end
of the arbitration proceedings, the "losing" party must pay the City's costs for
the arbitrator, there is no provision which requires an "up-front" payment by the
applicant for such proceedings. City staff does not believe the City should fund
the arbitration proceedings with the hope that it might recover its costs from the
losing party sometime at the end of those proceedings. It would be more
appropriate, similar to all other applications to the City, that the person seeking
the entitlement or decision, pay the City's actual costs associated with the
request. Proposed Ordinance No. 2420 would establish a $3,000.00 deposit
which would be paid by the applicant in the event the City was required to hold
arbitration proceedings. Ordinance No. 2420, an ordinance of the City of
Redlands amending Chapter 5.48 of the Redlands Municipal Code, was read by
title only by City Clerk Poyzer, and on motion of Councilmember Banda,
seconded by Councilmember Freedman, further reading of the ordinance text
was unanimously waived, and Ordinance No. 2420 was introduced with
unanimous Council approval and laid over under the rules with adoption
scheduled for September 21, 1999.
Ordinance No. 2421 - Adult-Oriented Business Permits - City Attorney
McHugh reported that recent decisions from the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
have ruled that adult business permitting systems are an invalid and improper
"prior restraint" of free speech unless an applicant for a permit can be assured
"prompt judicial review" if his or her permit is denied. As a result of these
decisions, the California Legislature enacted Senate Bill No. 1165 as urgency
legislation to add Section 1094.8 to the California Code of Civil Procedure.
This section establishes a new requirement for prompt judicial review of a
public agency's denial of a permit that relates to expressive conduct protected
by the I st Amendment (including adult businesses). Proposed Ordinance No.
2421 would revise Chapter 8.76 of the Redlands Municipal Code to provide for
prompt or judicial review of the City's denial of any adult business permit in
accordance with the new State law. City Attorney McHugh explained the
proposed permitting process. This ordinance also revises the Redlands
Municipal Code provisions regulating nudity at adult businesses and amends the
Code to add more stringent regulation of activities of adult businesses operating
within the City. City Attorney McHugh explained that Ordinance No. 2421 is
proposed as an urgency ordinance to protect the public peace, health and safety
September 7, 1999
Page 18
of the citizens of Redlands. If the City Council agrees with staffs
recommendation, a motion to adopt the urgency ordinance would be
appropriate. The ordinance would take effect immediately provided there are at
least four affirmative votes of Councilmembers. The following employees of
Deja Vu Show Girls in Redlands urged Councilmembers not to enact this
proposal: Christina Mock, Jason Mohney, Mike Branstetter, and Brandi
Malone. Also opposed was shareholder Donald Krontz. Roger Jon Diamond,
attorney for Deja Vu Show Girls, objected to this proposed ordinance presented
as an urgency ordinance which he felt did not give them a reasonable
opportunity to present their viewpoint; he urged the City Council to give this
ordinance first reading at this meeting and allow them time for further review.
Urging the City Council to adopt this ordinance were: Reverend Don Wallace
and George E. Riday. City Attorney McHugh explained the need for an
urgency ordinance and offered to meet with anyone to fine tune the ordinance if
necessary, and also responded to questions by noting that the studies supporting
the findings in the ordinance were available for review in the City Clerk's
Office. Ordinance No. 2421, an urgency ordinance of the City of Redlands
amending Chapter 8.76 of the Redlands Municipal Code to provide for prompt
review of applications for permits or other entitlements for adult-oriented
businesses, was read by title only by City Clerk Poyzer, and on motion of
Councilmember Banda, seconded by Councilmember Freedman, further reading
of the ordinance text was unanimously waived and Ordinance No. 2421 was
adopted as an urgency ordinance by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Banda, Gilbreath, Freedman, George;
Mayor Cunningham
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the City Council meeting adjourned at
8:30 P.M. The next regular meeting will be held on September 21, 1999.
City Clerk
September 7, 1999
Page 19