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HomeMy WebLinkAbout031715-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, on March 17, 2015, at 5:00 P.M. PRESENT: Paul Foster, Mayor Jon Harrison, Mayor Pro Tem Pat Gilbreath, Councilmember Paul Barich, Councilmember John James, Councilmember ABSENT: None STAFF: Enrique Martinez, City Manager; Dan McHugh, City Attorney; Jeanne Donaldson, Deputy City Clerk; Robert Dawes, City Treasurer; Carl Baker, Public Information Officer; David Graves, Fire Battalion Chief; Mark Garcia, Police Chief; Danielle Garcia, Chief Innovation Officer; Chris Diggs, Interim Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director; Fred Cardenas, Quality of Life Director; Tina Kundig, Finance Director; Oscar Orci, Development Services Director Mayor Foster called the meeting to order and offered those present the opportunity to provide public comment on any item on the agenda for the closed session. PUBLIC COMMENT: Employee Performance Evaluation—Representing the Mentone Area Community Association, Stephen Rogers encouraged the City Council to consider his email correspondence distributed earlier today when they are in closed session to review the City Manager and City Attorney performance evaluations. CLOSED SESSION: 1. Public Employee Appointment - Government Code §54957 Public Employee Performance Evaluation Title: City Attorney City Manager The meeting reconvened at 6:09 P.M. with an invocation by Mayor Foster followed by the pledge of allegiance to the American flag. CLOSED SESSION REPORT: City Attorney McHugh announced no reportable action was taken during the closed session. March 17,2015 Page 1 PRESENTATIONS: Redlands Animal Shelter — Animal Control Officer Bill Miller, introduced "Melody", an eight year old, female Pit Bull, who is available for adoption along with Thirty-four other dogs and seventeen cats at the Redlands Animal Shelter. Officer Miller informed the Council twenty-seven dogs, seven cats, two chickens and one rabbit have been adopted since the last City Council meeting. Lifesaving Act - Mayor Foster expressed his gratitude for Chad McCoy and presented a Certificate of Recognition to him for his brave actions taken in an effort to save the life of his neighbor D. Willhite. Socorro Pantaleon, of the Office of Assembly Member Marc Steinorth and David Matza, representing State Senator Mike Morrell, also presented proclamations. Day of Hope — Mayor Foster highlighted the good work achieved within the Redlands community by Childhelp, a non-profit organization founded in 1959 for the prevention and treatment of child abuse, and presented to Peggy Brier, Jo Ann Von Wald, and Sonietta Brown a proclamation declaring April 1, 2015 as Childhelp Day of Hope. PUBLIC COMMENT: In-Alley Refuse Pickup Service — Bill Whitfield requested the City Council review the policy decision to eliminate in-alley automatic refuse pickup service and questioned whether there are appropriate procedures currently in place for the public to participate in the review of citizen presented issues. He presented a document to the Deputy City Clerk for City Council distribution. Hazardous Tree—Wayland Reynolds expressed concern about a pepper tree at the north west corner of Highland Avenue and San Jacinto Street that has a large dead limb resting on electrical wires. He considers it a safety issue and requested the City take steps to determine its status. Mayor Foster directed staff to check the tree and report back. Community Coffee with Assemblyman Steinorth — Socorro Pantaleon from Assemblyman Marc Steinorth's office invited people to come to Muffin Top Bakery this Saturday, March 21, 2015 from 8:30 — 9:30 AM for a Community Coffee and a chance to get to know the Assemblyman. Toll Lanes and Rail to Redlands — Tressy Capps, resident of Fontana, expressed her opposition to the Rail to Redlands and the toll lanes slated for Interstate 10 and Interstate 15. She encouraged citizens to participate and speak their minds by reaching out to Mayor Pro Tem Harrison, the City's representative for San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG). March 17,2015 Page 2 Rail to Redlands — Sam Wong, of the Inland Empire Transit Alliance, complimented the City Council for their reasonable judgment and presented his opposition to the development of the Redlands Passenger Rail Project. He questioned SANBAG's cost estimates as much too low. Council Duties — Andrew Hoder reminded the City Council that they are the ultimate decision makers for the City of Redlands and he encouraged them to be very thorough and use their best judgment when reviewing documents presented by staff and the City Manager. Illegal Activity at Redlands Bowl — Tim Daly described a recurring problem with homeless people near the Redlands Bowl and specifically behind the Joslyn Senior Center. As a homeowner in this area, he explained the Redlands Police have been responsive. They do come out when called but he urged the City Council to address the issue, reminding them to consider the value of the Redlands Bowl. He suggested using surveillance cameras, floodlights or fencing as a means to discourage unsafe and illegal activity. LATE BREAKING ITEM; Noting that the need to take action was immediate, Councilmember Gilbreath moved to add to the City Council's agenda a "late breaking item" the consideration of a letter in support of the Wash Plan Land Exchange Bill. Motion seconded by Councilmember James and carried unanimously. The item was added to New Business as J-7. CONSENT CALENDAR: Minutes — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the minutes of the regular meeting of March 3, 2015 as submitted. Proclamation — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved a proclamation declaring April 1, 2015 as Childhelp Day of Hope. Committee Appointments—On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the reappointments of Janet Ward and Linda Richards to each serve on the Street Tree Committee for another term ending February 16, 2019. Grant Application — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the authorization to apply to the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency for a 2014 Assistance to Firefighters Fire Prevention & Safety Grant. March 17,2015 Page 3 Liability Waiver — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the execution of a form of liability waiver through calendar year 2015 for Goodyear Tire for use of their facilities for fundraising events to benefit the Redlands Animal Shelter. Events Agreement—Police Chief Garcia explained that Ritual Brewing Company is allowing use of their facility to raise funds for the Redlands Animal Shelter, with much of the money raised going toward spaying and neutering. As a public comment, Andrew Hoder asked that in the future, for clarification purposes, staff report attachments such as the `Event Agreement' form, should be completed, and not left blank. On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the execution of a form of Event Agreement between the City of Redlands and Ritual Brewing Company for the use of brewery facilities to conduct animal adoption events through calendar year 2015 to benefit the Redlands Animal Shelter. Lease Agreement — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved an agreement between the City of Redlands and Brookside San Mateo Partners, LP, for the use of the property at 1150 West Brookside Avenue, Suite J-IA for the Police Department West Substation. Ordinance No. 2812 — Nuisance Control —Quality of Life Director Cardenas provided background on a request to change procedures for code enforcement within the City of Redlands. As public comment, Andrew Hoder pointed to Chapter 8.04.120 and suggested the word `fruit' be removed so as to include all trees, not only fruit trees. On motion of Mayor Pro Tem Harrison, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved the adoption of Ordinance No. 2812 amending Chapter 8.04.22 of the Redlands Municipal Code relating to nuisances. The amendment enhances and clarifies language pertaining to nuisance abatement procedures and establishes a new hearing process. Fee Waiver — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved a request from the Redlands Bicycle Classic for the waiver of all fees associated with the 30 Annual Redlands Bicycle Classic event to be held on April 8-12, 2015. Fee Waiver — On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved a request from the Inland Empire Lighthouse for the Blind, Inc. for the waiver of all fees associated with the 13th Annual Cruise for Sight event to be held on April 18, 2015. March 17,2015 Page 4 NEW BUSINESS: Cemetery Planning — Mayor Foster and Councilmember Gilbreath recused themselves from discussion and voting on this item due to a possible conflict of interest since they each own property in Hillside Cemetery and Mayor Foster relinquished the chair to Mayor Pro Tem Harrison. Chris Boatman, of the Quality of Life Department, introduced Ryan Lee, Mortuary Consultant, who presented an executive summary of the Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery Business Plan. As public comment, Andrew Hoder questioned the final cost the City paid to the consultant and recommended the item be tabled to allow for the public to provide input. With thirty-four relatives currently buried at Hillside Cemetery, Jack Wilshire has a strong personal connection to the cemetery and asked the City Council to make their decisions with great care. Tom Atchley of the Redlands Historical Society described his research findings related to the Cemetery and encouraged the City Council to utilize PARIS monies to pave the cemetery roads rather than Endowment Fund money. Bill Cunningham also suggested the City use PARIS monies and both he and Mr. Atchley recommended the item be tabled to allow more time for public review. Lengthy discussion centered on alternative methods for funding the Business Plan implementation. On motion of Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Barich, the City Council agreed to receive and file the Plan. Cemetery Funding — Director Kundig introduced James Garland, of the Finance Department, who laid out a ten-year financing "plan" proposal to fund the Cemetery Business Plan. As public comment, Bill Cunningham expressed his concern about using Endowment Fund money and preferred the City go after available grant monies. Jack Wilshire again asked the City Council be very careful in their decision making process. Andrew Hoder voiced his opposition to the source of funding the projects and asked the item be tabled to provide time for the public to provide input. Discussion centered on alternative funding sources, repayment plans related to the Endowment Fund, and cemetery operations. Mayor Pro Tem Foster directed staff to reach out to the neighborhood as soon as possible to address any concerns about an installation of a cremation chamber. On motions of Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Barich, the City Council approved the list of Capital Improvement Projects for the Hillside Memorial Park and approved transfers of not to exceed $1,500,000.00 from the Hillside Memorial Park Endowment Fund to the Cemetery Enterprise Fund to fund the proposed projects as they occur; authorized a fund repayment plan based upon the internal interfund repayment plan be established and reported to the City Council on a regular basis; and directed staff to proceed with a Request for Proposals (RFP) for interim cemetery operations manager to manage the daily operations of Hillside Memorial Park, assist in implementing the work plan and Hillside Memorial Park Business Plan, and to seek grant funding for work plan projects. Mayor Foster and Councilmember Gilbreath recused themselves due to their property ownership in Hillside Cemetery. March 17,2015 Page 5 Community Work Day — Chris Boatman, of the Quality of Life Department, provided an overview of proposed volunteer projects for the Redlands Service Club Council Day of Service scheduled for April 25, 2015. On motions of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Harrison, the City Council unanimously agreed that approval of proposed improvements to Community Park, Hillside Memorial Park and Heritage Park is categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to either Section 15162 or 15301 of the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines, and approved the designated list of Proposed Projects for the Redlands Service Club Council Annual Day of Service; authorized a transfer from the Nevada Palmetto Groves funds; and approved an additional appropriation in the amount of$38,084.25. Street Planters — Quality of Life Director Cardenas summarized efforts at beautification of the downtown business area. On motions of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously agreed that completion of the Downtown State Street Planter Enhancement Project is categorically exempt from further environmental review pursuant to Section 15304 of the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines, and approved a contract between the City of Redlands and St. George Construction, in the amount of$46,335.00, for the work. Redlands Alabama Colton Intersection — Interim Municipal Utilities and Engineering Director Diggs, explained the need for a licensing agreement with San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) in order to proceed with intersection improvements at Alabama Street and Redlands Boulevard and at Colton Avenue and Redlands Boulevard. The agreement is necessary to allow the City to place a storm drain, within a SANBAG right-of-way, beginning east of Tri City Center Drive on Colton Avenue, traveling westerly through the new intersection of Colton Avenue and Redlands Boulevard, and connecting to another storm drain on Redlands Boulevard. On motion of Councilmember Gilbreath, seconded by Councilmember James, the City Council unanimously approved a license agreement between the City of Redlands and SANBAG for the Redlands Alabama Colton Intersection Improvement Project. Tobacco and Electronic Cigarette Sales —Development Services Director Orci provided background on a request to change the Redlands Municipal Code to regulate tobacco and electronic cigarette retail sales and on-site consumption. In hopes of beginning a dialogue about this topic, Mayor Foster had asked this item be added to the agenda. Discussion centered on the complexities of this topic, the need for more review and seeking input from the Chamber of Commerce. On motion of Mayor Foster, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Harrison, the City Council continued the matter to the meeting on April 7, 2015. March 17,2015 Page 6 Support for Wash Plan Exchange_ Bill — Mayor Pro Tem Harrison explained the background of the on-going multi-agency collaborative efforts toward the Wash Plan Habitat Conservation Plan, a project designed to provide one of the largest open areas in the eastern San Bernardino Valley, totaling over 4500 acres. Current legislation is at a critical step in the completion of the Wash Plan as it would facilitate the necessary land exchange. On motion of Mayor Pro Tem Harrison, seconded Councilmember James, the City Council authorized the Mayor to sign a letter in support of the Wash Plan Exchange Bill. COUNCILMEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS AND ACTIVITIES: Sustainability Festival — Mayor Foster and Mayor Pro Tem Harrison enjoyed the Sustainability Festival held at the University of Redlands on March 14th. The fair was a great success and Mayor Pro Tem Harrison complimented the enthusiasm displayed by City staff working the event and thanked them for their efforts. Councilmember James also attended and agreed it was very well done. Coffee with the Council—Councilmember Barich and Councilmember James will meet with the public this Saturday, March 21, beginning at 9:00 AM, at Stell Coffee & Tea. Making the Rounds — Representing the City, Councilmember Gilbreath attended the 60th Anniversary of the League of Womens Voters, she was able to go to the Chamber's Rise and Shine on behalf of the Council, and she and Mike Nelson of the Development Services Department, participated in an open house hosted by Lee and Associates for their property on Orchard. Councilmember James attended the Advisory Commission on Water Policies last week. Healthy Redlands — Councilmember Gilbreath thanked staff for their good ideas and continued help to move the program forward. CERT Training—Mayor Foster was able to participate in the final day of a three- day emergency training class held earlier in the month at Plymouth Village. He thanked Fay Glass for all her continued efforts for making these classes available to the public and a big thanks to the thirty-six graduates who completed the course. Liveable Cities Conference — Mayor Foster and Mayor Pro Tem Harrison are leaving later this week to attend a "Liveable Cities" Conference and they look forward to getting some new and innovative ideas from that meeting. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further action required, Mayor Foster adjourned the meeting at 8:34 P.M. The next regular meeting of the City of Redlands City Council will be held on April 7, 2015. March 17,2015 Page 7 Jeanne Donaldson, Deputy City Clerk March 17,2015 Page 8