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HomeMy WebLinkAbout102103-CC_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 October 21, 2003. PRESENT Karl N. (Kasey) Haws, Mayor Susan Peppler, Mayor Pro Tem Pat Gilbreath, Councilmember Gary George, Councilmember Jon.Harrison, Councilmember ABSENT None STAFF John Davidson, City Manager; Daniel J. McHugh, City Attorney; Beatrice Sanchez, Deputy City Clerk; Michael Reynolds, City Treasurer; Clete Hyman, Deputy Police Chief; John Habant, Deputy Fire Chief, Tina Kundig, Finance Director (afternoon session); Tom Steele, Assistant Finance Director (evening session); Ronald C. Mutter, Public Works Director; Marjie Pettus, Administrative Services Director; Gary G. Phelps, Municipal Utilities Director; and Jeffrey L. Shaw, Community Development Director. The meeting was opened with an invocation by Mayor Haws followed by the pledge of allegiance. PRESENTATIONS Employee Retirement - Rodger Orr - Mr. Orr was employed by the City of Redlands in 1983 as an Electronics Technician and promoted to the level of Traffic Signal Technician II where he programmed and maintained the City's traffic signal system. For his next adventure, Mr. Orr has reenlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserves for six years where he can continue utilizing his electronics knowledge. Employee Retirement - Barbara VanderVliet - Ms. VanderVliet joined Mayor Haws at the podium to honor her for her 34 years, two months and four days of service to the City of Redlands. Ms. VanderVliet began her career as a parking meter maid and concluded as a Building Inspector II. Mayor Haws commended her for her professional conduct and personal attention given to the citizens of Redlands during the course of her business. Ms. VanderVliet then thanked everyone for the opportunity to work for and in the City of Redlands. CONSENT CALENDAR Minutes - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the minutes of the regular meeting of October 7, 2003, were approved as submitted. October 21,2003 Page 1 Bills and Salaries - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath,payment of bills and salaries was acknowledged. Planning Commission Actions - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the report of the Planning Commission. meeting held on October 14, 2003, was acknowledged as received. Agreement - Final Approval - Tract No. 16350- Quantum Structures, LLC, Applicant - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council, by AYE votes of all present, approved and authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to execute on behalf of the City, a subdivision improvement agreement for Tract No. 16350, in conjunction with Specific Plan No. 56, a subdivision of 37 single family lots on 4.91 acres generally located south of Orange Avenue, approximately 300 feet west of Tennessee Street, in the R-2 (Multiple Family Residential) District. On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council, by AYE votes of all present, accepted Tract No. 16350 and granted final approval to authorize recordation with the County Recorder. Resolution No. 6202 - Delegating Authority - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 6202, a resolution of the City Council delegating authority of the City Council regarding Policy 5.20b, pertaining to standards for traffic service, to the Planning Commission. Reappropriation of Local Transportation Funds - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously approved that the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk execute a Request for Reappropriation of Local Transportation Funds, and Time Extension to May 1, 2005, for :BRLS- 5083(003), Orange Street Bridge Replacement, and BRLS-5083(004), Alabama Street Bridge. SANBAG Agreement and Amendment to Five-Year Measure I CIP - On motion. of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously approved the removal of rails and repair of the railroad crossings at Dearborn Street, Sylvan Boulevard and Lincoln Street on the Redlands Subdivision (BNSF Railroad) Line. On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council further approved the amendment to the Measure I Five-Year Capital Improvement Program to include the pavement replacement and repairs at Dearborn Street, Sylvan Boulevard and Lincoln Street. Contract - California Street Landfill - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously approved the award of contract for public improvement project to Dan Copp Crushing for the crushing and recycling of stockpiled asphalt and concrete at the California October 21,2003 Page 2 Street Landfill in the amount of $45,000.00 and authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute the contract on behalf of the City, and authorized up to 25 percent over the bid amount to allow for actual quantities and additional costs. Agreement - Digester Mixing and Plant Water Pump Station - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute an agreement in the amount of $47,240.00 with Carollo Engineers to furnish engineering services for the design of a digester mixing system and plant water pump station for the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant. Agreement - California Street Landfill - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute an agreement in the amount of $30,400.00 with Tom Dodson and Associates to furnish environmental review services for the acquisition of land adjacent to the California Street Landfill and authorized staff to approve contingent costs of up to 10 percent over the initial amount. Resolution No. 6203 - Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan - Councilmember George moved to approve Resolution No. 6203, a resolution of the City Council designating an authorized representative for the Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan, to authorize execution of the Notice of Application Acceptance and associated actions, and to authorize the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute the final loan agreement. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously. Contract `B" Water Agreement - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously approved the transfer of a City of Redlands Contract `B" Water Agreement in the amount of 100 day inches of water from the City of Redlands to Gene Belk Fruit Packers. 1300 and 1520 Zone Non-Potable Water Main Protect - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously authorized staff to approve contingent costs up to 25 percent over the total bid amount, based on actual project quantities for the 1.300 and 1520 Zone Non-Potable Water Main Project. Resolution No. 6205 - Fire Management Assistance Subgrant - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 6205, a resolution of the City Council designating an authorized agent for the execution of applications on behalf of the City of Redlands for federal financial assistance under the Fire Management Assistance Subgrant through the State Office of Emergency Services. October 21,2003 Page 3 Agreement - Great Neighborhood Prog am - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously approved a Great Neighborhoods program participant agreement with Emily Barbo, 1243 North Sixth Street, $10,000.00 and Jess and Josie Barbo, 1230 North Sixth Street, $10,000.00, and authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute the documents on behalf of the City. On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Peppler, the City Council unanimously approved the Declarations of Covenants and Restrictions dated October 21, 2003, for the program participants and authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute the documents on behalf of the City. Independent Contractor Agreement- Councilmember George moved to approve an independent contractor agreement with Kurtiss M. Smith for management services related to the Police Department's regional data sharing project, COMPASS, and authorized the Mayor and Deputy City Clerk to execute the agreement. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously. Building A Generation/AmeriCorps Grant - Councilmember George moved to approve partnering with Building A Generation on the AmeriCorps grant for 2003-04 which provides for six AmeriCorps members to be assigned to and supervised by the Recreation Bureau. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried unanimously. Funds - Mechanic Position - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously authorized the addition of one Heavy Equipment Mechanic position and approved an additional appropriation of$30,144 to fund salary and benefits. Proclamation - Veterans' Day - On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath, the City Council unanimously authorized issuance of a proclamation declaring November 11, 2003, as Veterans' Day and called upon all citizens to commend America's veterans and observe that day with solemn pride. PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Residential Development Allocation - Community Development Director Shaw presented requests for consideration of Residential Development Allocations as follows: 1. RDA 2003-III-01: Request for one dwelling unit within Tentative Tract No. 16360, an approved 76 lot subdivision on approximately 8.86 acres in Specific Plan No. 57 located at the southeast corner of Orange Avenue and Iowa Street-Alexander Communities, applicant 2. RDA 2003-III-02: Request for 35 dwelling units with Tentative Tract No. 16390, an approved planned residential subdivision consisting of 139 October 21,2003 Page 4 residential lots on 46.45 acres located along the south bank of the Santa Ana River, west of Orange Street and north of Pioneer Avenue - Beazer Homes, applicant 3. RDA 2003-III-03: Request for 31 dwelling units within Tentative Tract No. 12382, an approved 31 lot subdivision on approximately 37.26 acres located on the south side of Sunset Drive, east of Wabash Avenue - Griffin Industries, applicant 4. RDA 2003-III-04: Request for 29 dwelling units within Tentative Tract No. 1.6408, an approved residential subdivision consisting of 64 lots on 40.06 acres located at the southwest corner of Fifth and Wabash Avenues - Centex Homes, applicant 5. RDA 2003-III-05: Request for 35 dwelling units within Tentative Tract No. 1.61.74, an approved planned residential subdivision consisting of 69 lots on 29.2 acres located on the north side of Pioneer Avenue, approximately 440 feet east of the terminus of Occidental Drive - Centex Homes, applicant 6. RDA 2003-III-06: Request for 35 dwelling units within Tentative Tract No. 16359, an approved planned residential subdivision consisting of 43 lots on 13.8 acres located on the north side of Pioneer Avenue, approximately 300 feet east of Texas Street- Shea Homes, applicant 7. RDA 2003-III-7: Request for 19 dwelling units within Tentative Tract No. 16139, an approved residential subdivision consisting of 19 lots on 7.20 acres located north of Cypress Avenue, east of Heather Lane and west of Linda Vista Avenue, in the R-S, Suburban Residential, District - Joseph F. O'Brien, applicant Community Development Director Shaw explained the Residential Development Allocation process and analysis. The minimum required by the Redlands Municipal Code to receive development allocations for residential development is 90 points. The seven projects received points as follows: RDA 2003-III-01 - Alexander Communities 91points RDA 2003-III-03 - Griffin Industries 97 points RDA 2003-III-02 - Beazer Homes 93 points RDA 2003-III-04 - Centex Homes 97 points RDA 2003-III-05 - Centex Homes 90 points RDA 2003-III-06 - Shea Homes 78 points RDA 2003-III-07 - Meadow Wood Homes 86 points Mr. Joseph O'Brien appealed to Council to readjust the points awarded to his project. He extensively identified the sections of site and grading design, landscape architecture and architectural design that should be awarded six additional points collectively. Speaking in support of Mr. O'Brien's project were Jane Hawkins and Kay Wood. Elias Casillas, Nancy Alexander and Cliff Alexander expressed concern with drainage and wildlife habitats. October 21,2003 Page 5 Councilmember Jon Harrison stated he thought the project deserved four additional points, giving the project the required 90 points. Lengthy discussion then occurred among the Councilmembers pertaining to projects that submitted complete plans and qualified. If points are added to Mr. O'Brien's project now, it would take away allocations from other projects. Mr. Shaw responded to Mayor Haws that the next allocations will be awarded in December. The following actions were then taken on the points awarded for the proposed projects. RDA 2003-III-01 - Alexander Communities - Councilmember George moved to approve the allocation of one unit to RDA 2003-III-01, Alexander Communities. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-02 - Beazer Homes - Councilmember George moved to approve the allocation of 35 units to RDA 2003-1II-01, Beazer Homes. Motion seconded by Councilmember Gilbreath and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-03 - Griffin Industries - Councilmember George moved to approve the allocation of 31 units to RDA 2003-III-01, Griffin Industries. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-04 - Centex Homes - Councilmember George moved to approve the allocation of 29 units to RDA 2003-III-01, Centex Homes. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-05 - Centex Homes - Councilmember George moved to approve the allocation of 20 units to RDA 2003-III-01, Centex Homes. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-06 - Shea Homes - Councilmember George moved to not approve any allocations to RDA 2003-III-06, Shea Homes. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. RDA 2003-III-07 - Joseph F. O'Brien - Councilmember George moved to not approve any allocations of to RDA 2003-I11-07, Joseph F. O'Brien. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried with Councilmember Harrison voting NO. Appeal - Fox Theater Building - The Fox Theater Building was designated as a Landmark Structure by the City Council on September 15, 1987, which gave the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission authority over any changes to the exterior of the building. Public hearings were held by the Commission on July 8, August 14 and September 11, 2003, to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness. The applicant's proposal was modified at each meeting and the Commission repeatedly asked the applicant for more detailed information and plans. In addition, the Commission was concerned about compliance with October 21,2003 Page 6 the California Environmental Quality Act with respect to consistency with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. The applicant questioned whether having an architect review the door and windows was necessary. The Commission decided to deny the project based on the following: "The Commission could state that given the importance of the structure and its place in the Community, any change is significant that it will need review from a preservation architect for independent review for conformity with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. Further, the Commission could insist on a more comprehensive plan and more detailed plans from an architect familiar with historic preservation. These requirements are standard in communities with landmark structures which are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places." After the last meeting, staff approved tenant improvements that did not involve any additional doors or windows. Since that time there have been concerns expressed from the community and the Commission about the work being done including the possibility of a second floor being added and the exposed bolts which have altered the appearance of the outside of the building. Ms. Liz Baeguelin, representing the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission, identified the other numerous changes to the Fox Theatre that alarm the Commission, besides the door and window request. Ms. Janet Hansen, Chairperson of the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission, cited that a master plan should be submitted to the Commission and reviewed by a professional historical preservation architect. It is important that irreversible changes are not made to the building. The owners, Calvin McLean and Mona Penner, then identified to Council the improvements they have made to the building and what they are requesting now. Mr. McLean stated that some requirements by the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission were not part of the "original" building. He is not able to get any direction from the Commission, only denials. Mayor Haws stated the City wants the Commission to regulate, as well as, help preserve historic buildings. Councilmember Gilbreath added that the City wants to encourage investing in its historical structures and it needs to find a balance in this matter. Discussion then occurred between staff and the Council regarding the preparation of an Initial Study. Councilmember Haws then moved to continue the project to the November 18, 2003, Council meeting. Motion seconded by Councilmember George and carried unanimously. Historic Landmark Burrage Mansion - The nomination of the Burrage Mansion was made by the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission in November, 2000. The owner, Dr. Russell Seheult, appealed the decision to the City Council in February 2001 but no action was taken. Since that time, the applicant has started grading the property. This resulted in a code enforcement action based on complaints from the public. City Attorney McHugh requested the matter be postponed until this evening and a report will made at 7:00 P.M. When the meeting was reconvened at 7:15 P.M., City Attorney McHugh October 21,2003 Page 7 announced that the applicant has agreed to a tolling agreement. This item is being removed from the agenda and will be rescheduled on the November 4, 2003, City Council meeting. PUBLIC COMMENTS Sylvan Park House - Mayor Haws permitted Mr. Curtiss Allen to address the Council at this time. Mr. Allen appealed to the Council to allow the Sylvan Park house tenants, Mike and Ann Shea, to extend the date they are to vacate the house they rent from the City in Sylvan Park. He described them as model citizens who also perform a service for the Police Department by reporting questionable activities in the park. Mr. Shea then pleaded with the Council to allow him to stay in the house until March 1, 2004. This would allow him to seek another roof over his head. PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (continued) Revisions to the General Plan Pertaining to Open Space - At the request of the City Council, staff prepared a memorandum on alternative approaches to preserve open space. On September 30, 2003, two study sessions were held, sponsored by the Redlands Conservancy. The first was directed toward City staff and the second to property owners who might be interested in participating in an open space program. The Conservancy wants to expand upon current goals, policies and programs in the General Plan pertaining to open space by using the Open Space Plan prepared by Pete Dangermond and the "Emerald Necklace" concept as the goal they would like to achieve. The Open Space Preservation Committee of the Redlands Conservancy requested the City to initiate a process to evaluate the General Plan as it pertains to open space. The purpose of the review is to identify areas so as to incorporate additional open space elements and to provide a pro-active implementation strategy. The Planning Commission accepted the request and is recommending revisions to the General Plan pertaining to open space. The Planning Commission also recommended that the City adopt an implementation strategy and program. pertaining to open space. The review, evaluation, update and development of open space goals, policies, programs and an implementation strategy will take considerable staff time. The nature of this issue will also result in participation by the Trails Committee, Parks Commission, and possibly other entities which will also impact staffing from other City departments. On motion of Councilmember Haws, seconded by Councilmember George, the City Council unanimously directed staff to initiate a review, evaluation, and update to the General Plan as it pertains to open space and to evaluate and develop an. implementation strategy with regards to open space. COMMUNICATIONS October 21,2003 Page 8 Tract No. 16408 - Proposed Community Facilities District - Tract No. 16408 is a 40-acre residential subdivision containing 64 lots at the southwest corner of Fifth Avenue and Wabash Avenue. The tract proposes to have a 40-foot wide citrus buffer along the street frontages on Fifth Avenue, Wabash Avenue and Sixth Avenue. The citrus along the frontages on Fifth Avenue and the northerly 410 feet of Wabash Avenue would be contained in a common lot, designated as Lot "A" on the map. Citrus on the remainder of Wabash Avenue and Sixth Avenue frontage would be within the individual lot areas and would be privately owned. It is proposed that an easement would be granted over the citrus buffer areas in the private lots. A Homeowner's Association (HOA) would maintain all commonly owned property including the citrus buffer areas in the private lots. The developer is requesting consideration by the City for the formation of a Community Facilities District (CFD) to fund certain maintenance operations in the development that would normally be administered by an HOA. These maintenance functions would include the citrus buffer areas, both in the common lot and the private lots, the parkway areas throughout the development and the entry monument. Under the laws regulating CFD's, all property maintained under a CFD must be under the ownership and/or control of the public agency administering the CFD. The City would be ultimately responsible for the operation and maintenance functions covered under the CFD. It is proposed that a management company be hired to administer contracts with yard care companies, citrus farming companies, etc. Public Works Director Mutter stated that he originally was very opposed to the CFD proposal but now he has some reservations. This concept has been successful in cities within Riverside County and can be administered by a full- time City employee administrator who could assume assessment districts' administration. Councilmember George was very enthusiastic because he thinks this could solve some of the problems for open space. Centex Homes representative, Pat Meyer said a CFD would need to come back to Council to finalize numbers. Councilmember Harrison wanted assurance that a CFD could be dissolved. City Attorney McHugh assured the City Council that there are recorded Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions and a dormant HOA could be resurrected. Councilmember George moved to approve the request of Mr. Larry Ludwig, Project Manager for Centex Homes, to establish a Community Facilities District for the administration, operations and maintenance of the citrus buffer and certain landscape amenities in Tract No. 16408. Motion seconded by Councilmember Peppler and carried unanimously. NEW BUSINESS Ordinance No. 2560 - Redevelopment Plan Deadlines - Community Development Director Shaw explained that staff recommends that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 2560 and utilize the statutory streamlined process to eliminate the Redevelopment Plan's deadline to incur debt pursuant to SB211, and extend the Plan's effectiveness deadlines and the tax increment October 21,2003 Page 9 receipt deadlines by one year pursuant to SB 1045. Staff has consulted with Bond Counsel on the Agency's current tax allocation bonds and there are no covenants that restrict activities that trigger the new pass-through payments. Ordinance No. 2560, an ordinance of the City of Redlands extending the effectiveness deadlines, the tax increment receipt deadlines and elimination the debt incurrence deadline for the Redevelopment Plan for the Redlands Redevelopment Project Area, was read by title only by Deputy City Clerk Sanchez. On motion of Councilmember Peppler, seconded by Councilmember Harrison, further reading of the ordinance text was waived. Ordinance No. 2560 was introduced, unanimously approved and laid over under the rules with adoption scheduled for November 4, 2003. Resolution No. 6204 - Allocations of Tax Increment - Adoption of Ordinance No. 2560 results in an obligation by the Redlands Redevelopment Agency to pay statutory pass through payments to all affected taxing entities in the Project Area, including the County, schools and other entities. California Community Redevelopment Law, in Health and Safety Code Section 333607.5(b), authorizes the City to make an election to receive its share of tax increment which may be made annually, and an election in one year does not obligate the Council to continue the election in subsequent years. Resolution No. 6204 provides that the election will continue for future fiscal years unless rescinded by subsequent resolution of the City Council. On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Peppler, the City Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 6204, electing to receive allocations of tax increment pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 33607.5(b). Resolution No. 6206 - 2003 General Obligation Refunding Bonds - Finance Director Kundig reported that the opportunity to refund the 1994 General Obligation Refunding Bonds has arisen because of the low interest rate environment. The Bonds are outstanding in the amount of$5,140,000 and have a final maturity in 2014. Gross annual savings in the approximate amount of $30,000 will directly benefit the taxpayers in the City. On motion of Councilmember George, seconded by Councilmember Peppler, the City Council unanimously approved Resolution No. 6206, authorizing the issuance and sale of 2003 General Obligation Refunding Bonds, approved prescribing the terms of sale of said 2003 Refunding General Obligation Bonds (including the provision of municipal bond insurance), approved the form of bond purchase contract, approved the preparation and distribution of a Preliminary Official Statement and authorized execution of necessary certificates. JOINT MEETING - CITY COUNCIL REDLANDS FINANCING AUTHORITY AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Resolution No. 6207 - Redlands Redevelopment Project Tax Allocation Bonds - From the audience, Finance Director Kundig introduced Marshal Linn, President, Urban Futures, Inc.; Robert Porr, Sr. Vice President, O'Connor October 21,2003 Page 10 Southwest Securities; and John Rottschaefer, Bond Counsel. Finance Director Kundig then explained that the purpose of the Redevelopment Agency Tax Allocation bond issue is to take advantage of the low rates available in today's financial market and to allow the Agency to generate funds for needed capital improvements in the Project Area; maximize proceeds to meet anticipated expenditures in connection with the Redevelopment Plan; and generate proceeds to meet anticipated expenses for projects associated with low and moderate income housing needs. In order to sell the Redevelopment Agency's proposed Tax Allocation Bonds Series 2003A on a negotiated basis, it will be necessary for the Redlands Financing Authority to purchase the bonds from the Redevelopment Agency. The Redlands Financing Authority will immediately sell the bonds to the underwriter, O'Connor Southwest Securities, Inc. Based on Fiscal Year 2003-04 San Bernardino County Tax Roll and projections of anticipated growth within the Project Area, the Redevelopment Agency could issue $16,895,000 of Tax Allocation Bonds, with an underwriter's discount of not more than 1.5 percent of the principal amount of bonds. The Agency will have immediate access to approximately $5.1 million of the proceeds for non- housing related projects. Approximately another $2.1 million will be placed in an escrow account which will be released over the next two years, as the assessed valuation in the Project Area increases. Additionally, the Agency will have immediate access to approximately $7.8 million in proceeds that can be used for low and moderate-income housing-related purposes. The Tax Allocation Bonds Series 2003A will be issued on a parity basis with the Agency 1998 Tax Allocation Bond Issue and will have an equal right to tax increments generated in the Project Area. By escrowing a small portion of the bonds' proceeds, the Agency will achieve significant cost savings by not paying additional cost of issuance for a near-term new-money issuance in the future. With long and short-term bond rates at a 25-year low, the Agency can access the market place and expect to pay between 4.80 percent and 5.15 percent on its term bonds. Councilmember Gilbreath inquired if there are any projects in mind for the issuance of the bonds. City Manager Davidson listed a parking structure, hotel and the expansion of infrastructure. Councilmember Gilbreath expressed concern that the City does not have a definite plan for incurring debt. Mayor Haws stated that if funding is in place we are better able to make plans for the area. Councilmember Harrison moved to approved Resolution No. 6207, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redlands approving the issuance of Redlands Redevelopment Project Tax Allocation :Bonds, Series 2003A, by the Redevelopment Agency. Motion seconded by Councilmember George and carried with Councilmember Gilbreath voting NO. (Also see Redlands Financing Authority and Redevelopment Agency minutes dated October 21, 2003.) The City Council recessed at 5:43 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 5:49 P.M. Economic Development Plans - Economic Development Director Ralph Megna had requested his item be postponed to this time and place on the agenda. His October 21,2003 Page 11 presentation today focused on the status of the Redlands Auto Dealers Joint Marketing Initiative and the Core Block Development Strategy. A PowerPoint presentation displayed areas of developer interest, additional development opportunities, critical linkages to be created or strengthened, and key projects. Mr. Megna's recommendations are to: approve the predevelopment planning and engineering for a new public parking garage in the Core Block, and to continue development planning, including additional parking and transit facilities, for downtown, as part of the "Park Once" grant. Mr. Megna would like to assign the Business and Economic Development Commission with exploring options for encouraging the development of high-quality downtown housing and making recommendations for action to the City Council early in 2004. Council Candidate Theresa W. Kwappenberg expressed her concern for stimulating Downtown Redlands. Her vision for Downtown is to have a Riverwalk around the Krikorian Theatre that includes a promenade to State Street. This could promote downtown as a destination and attract high-quality hotels and businesses. CLOSED SESSION The City Council meeting recessed at 6:19 P.M. to continue the Redevelopment Agency meeting and reconvened at 6:29 P.M. to a closed session to discuss the following: 1. Conference with labor negotiator- Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency Negotiator: John Davidson, Tina Kundig and Marjie Pettus Employee Organization: San Bernardino Public Employees Association 2. Conference with labor negotiator- Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency Negotiator: John.Davidson, Tina Kundig and Marjie Pettus Employee Organization: Redlands Association of Mid-Management Employees 3. Conference with real property negotiator - Government Code Section 54956.8 Property: 525 N. University Street Negotiating parties: John Davidson and Michael and Ann Shea Under negotiation: Terms and price 4. Conference with legal counsel: Anticipated litigation - Government Code Section 54956.9(b) - one case 5. Conference with legal counsel: Existing litigation - Government Code Section 54956.9(a) - Caltrans v City of Redlands No. SCVSS 077035 The City Council meeting reconvened at 7:15 P.M. Approximately 140 City of Redlands general employees, holding signs, were present in the Chambers to protest an impasse in contract negotiations. PRESENTATION October 21,2003 Page 12 SANBAG - Mr. Mike Baer, representing SANBAG, presented a final report for the Redlands Passenger Rail Feasibility Study to assess establishing passenger rail service between the San Bernardino Metrolink Station and the City of Redlands. Members of the project development team included: Cities of San Bernardino, Loma Linda, Highland and Redlands; County of San Bernardino; Omnitrans; and SANBAG. October 21,2003 Page 13 ANNOUNCEMENTS/REPORTS Councilmembers reported on their activities and attendance at meetings during the past two weeks. LAND USE AND PUBLIC HEARINGS A.K.S. and BEK Partners - Public notice was advertised for this time and place to consider a draft mitigated negative declaration and public hearings for Socio- Economic Analysis and Cost/Benefit Study for Ordinance No. 2558, Zone Change No. 391, a change of zone from unincorporated County property to R-1 (Single Family Residential) District and R-E (Residential Estate) District on two contiguous parcels totaling 8.93 gross acres located south of Madeira Avenue, north of Mentone Boulevard, west of Sapphire Avenue and east of Plumwood Lane; and Tentative Tract No. 16402 to subdivide approximately 8.93 gross acres into 27 residential lots located south of Madeira Avenue, north of Mentone Boulevard, west of Sapphire Avenue and east of Plumwood Lane in the R-1 (Single Family Residential) District and R-E (Residential Estate) District. Community Development Director Shaw reported that the project is located in an unincorporated Mentone area of San Bernardino County which will require an annexation of the project site into the City. The initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for the project was forwarded to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) for their review. LAFCO reviewed the document and has requested that it be revised and that additional information be included. Staff is currently making these revisions but needs additional time to complete the changes. Once these changes are made and LAFCO has had an opportunity to review the changes, staff will re-advertise the proposed mitigated negative declaration and the item can be rescheduled so that the Council will be able to take final action. On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath , seconded by Councilmember Peppler, actions on Zone Change No. 391 and Tentative Tract No. 16402 were tabled. NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED) Ordinance No. 2561 - Signs on Public PropertX - City Attorney McHugh reported that his office has prepared an ordinance establishing policies for signs on bus shelters and on public property. Omnitrans, or the appropriate and designated area-wide transportation company, is to construct the shelters in accordance with all applicable laws. In addition, the ordinance makes amendments to existing regulations for signs on public property which relate to banners and A-frame signs. Ordinance No. 2561, an ordinance of the City of Redlands amending Chapter 12.55 of the Redlands Municipal Code to establish regulations for signs on public property and amending A-frame and banner regulations, was read by title only by Deputy City Clerk Sanchez, and on motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember Peppler, further reading of the ordinance text was unanimously waived. Ordinance No. October 21,2003 Page 14 2561 was introduced and laid over under the rules with adoption scheduled for November 4, 2003. PUBLIC COMMENTS Representing South Coast Air Quality Management District, Public Information Specialist Janet Laiblin, introduced herself to the Council. She asked the Council for support of the adoption of the 2003 Air Quality Management Plan by communicating with the California Air Resources Board in Sacramento. Mario Saucido, President of the San Bernardino Public Employees Association and a City of Redlands employee, asked the Council for fair wages stating safety employees' salaries remain competitive, but it is unfair for GEAR employees to bear the brunt of the current financial situation; Joe Huff, President of General Employees Association of Redlands (GEAR) and a City of Redlands employee, stated he was here to request fair treatment for General employees who have been reasonable and shared the burden. For several years, they have had no increases, yet safety employees get enhanced salaries and retirement plans. He asked the Council to come back to the table with a fair offer; Elaine Craig, a negotiator for the San Bernardino Public Employees Association, representing the General Employees Association of Redlands, cited examples of spending that she said demonstrates irresponsible spending. She complained about inequities and said the general employees want to work with the City Council. Mayor Haws thanked the audience for their decorum and informed them that, by law, the Council cannot react to a non-agendized issue. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the City Council meeting adjourned at 7:51 P.M. The next regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2003. Deputy City Clerk October 21,2003 Page 15