HomeMy WebLinkAboutcc min 1998/05/26 (2)MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
Tuesday, May 26, 1998
6:45 p.m.
1. ROLL C~tLL:
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
ALSO PRESENT:
Council Chambers
Public Services Building
CALL TO ORDER
Councilmembers: Moot, Padilla, Rindone, Salas, and
Mayor Horton.
Councilmembers: None
City Manager, David D. Rowlands; City Attorney, John M.
Kaheny; City Clerk, Beverly A. Authelet; and Deputy City
Clerk, Charline V. Long
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG, MOMENT OF SILENCE
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: May 18, 1998 (special joint meeting/workshop of the
City Council, Growth Management Oversight Commission, and Planning Commission).
MSC (Rindone/Moot) to approve the May 18, 1998 minutes. Motion carried 4-0-0-1
(Padilla abstaining since he was absent from the meeting).
4. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY: None submitted.
CONSENT CALENDAR
(Items pulled: none)
CONSENT CALENDAR OFFERED BY MAYOR MORTON, headings read, texts waived, passed and
approved unanimously 5-0 except for Item 6 which was continued to June 9th; Item
11 with Moot and Salas abstaining; and Item 12 with Padilla abstaining.
5. WRITTEN CO~4I~NICATIONS:
5A. Letter from the City Attorney stating that to the best of his knowledge
from observance of actions taken in Closed Session on 5/19/98, that there were
no reportable actions under the Brown Act to be reported. The letter was
received and filed.
6. RESOLUTION 19002 APPROVING A SPECIFIC SITE PLAN FOR TWO ART PIECES AT
BAYSIDE PARK FOR POTENTIAL PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION BY THE SAN DIEGO UNIFIED
PORT DISTRICT PUBLIC ART PROJECT - On December 17, 1996, Council approved the
selection of two outdoor sculptures for potential purchase and installation by
the San Diego Unified Port District through the Port's Public Art Program. The
two proposed art pieces are "The Wave" by Ron Jermyn and "wind and Sea" by Scott
Hanson. Council also approved three optional installation sites (the terminus
of "F" Street; Bayside Park; and the southwest corner of the "J" Street Marina).
Staff presented the selected pieces and the optional installation sites to the
San Diego Unified Port District's Public Art Committee at their meeting on June
4, 1997. The item was continued to June 9, 1998. (Library Director and Director
of Community Development)
Mayor Horton requested that the item be continued to June 9, 1998. Council
concurred.
7. RESOLUTION 19003 APPROPRIATING UNANTICIPATED REVENUES FROM THE CENTRAL
GARAGE FUND TO THE 1997/98 CENTRAL GARAGE BUDGET FOR REPAIR WORK TO VARIOUS
TRUCKS AND SEDANS - Unanticipated repair work has been done on various trucks and
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 2
sedans in the City's fleet and the Central Garage has received funds for these
repairs. In addition, the Central Garage has been reimbursed for repairs
accomplished at the request of insurance companies for damage to City property
caused by their clients. Revenues for these repairs have accumulated in the
Central Garage Fund. An appropriation is required so that the Central Garage has
the authority to spend these funds in the current fiscal year for ongoing
activities. Per staff's recommendation, the resolution was approved unanimously
5-0. (Director Of Public Works) 4/5th's vote required.
8. RESOLUTION 19004 APPROVING THE DESIGNATION OF THE DEPUTY PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER AS THE POSITION AUTHORIZED TO EXECUTE FOR AND ON BEHALF
OF THE CITY ALL APPLICATIONS AND REQUESTS/OR REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF
OBTAINING CERTAIN FEDERAL FINANCIAL: ASSISTANCE UNDER THE PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
PROGRAM, P.L. 93-288 AS AMENDED BY THE ROBERT T. STAFFORD DISASTER RELIEF AND
EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1988, AND/OR STATE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE
NATURAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE ACT - The Public Assistance Program, which is funded
by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is administered by the State
of California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES). This program
assists cities in recovering from federally declared disasters. Following
President Clinton's major disaster declaration for the region, engineering staff
started working with FEMA and OES staffs on an application process to compensate
the City for all eligible damage costs associated with the El Nino floods of
1998. Per staff's recommendation, the resolution was approved unanimously 5-0.
(Director of Public Works)
9. RESOLUTION 19005 INTENTION TO VACATE A PORTION OF AN ALLEY NORTH OF THE
PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 3080/3082 AND 3084 MAIN STREET AND SETTING A DATE AND TIME
FOR PUBLIC HEARING THEREON - A request has been received to vacate a portion of
an alley north of the properties located at 3080/3082 and 3084 Main Street. In
accordance with the State Street and Highways Code, Council must adopt a
resolution of intention setting a public hearing in order to consider the
vacation request. Per staff's recommendation, the resolution was approved
unanimously 5-0 and a public hearing was set for June 23, 1998 at 6:00 p.m.
(Director of Public Works)
Councilmember Rindone asked what was the reason for the request to vacate the
alley. Does the City care if this is vacated?
John Lippitt, Public Works Director, replied that the individual uses all three
sides of it. The alley doesn't go through, so he has asked to vacate it. The
City doesn't care except to reserve the easements. This item is just to set the
hearing; there still has to be a hearing.
Councilmember Rindone requested that when the item comes back to Council that if
there is any interest for the City that the staff report would address it.
10. RESOLUTION 19006 APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORTS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
1998/99 SPREAD OF ASSESSMENTS FOR CITY OPEN SPACE DISTRICTS 1-9, 11, 14, 15, 17,
18, 20, 23, 24, 26, 31, 33, BAY BOULEVARD, AND TOWN CENTRE, DECLARING THE
INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS, AND SETTING JUNE 23, 1998 AT 6:00 P.M.
AND JULy 14, 1998 AT 6:00 P.M. AS THE DATES AND TIMES FOR THE PUBLIC HEARINGS -
The City administers 25 open space districts established over the last 25 years.
The districts provide the mechanism to finance the maintenance of common open
space areas (canyons, trails, medians, etc.) associated with and benefitting that
particular development. As part of this process, a levy of an annual assessment
is necessary to enable the City to collect funds for the proposed open space
maintenance. Per staff's recommendation, the resolution was approved unanimously
5-0. (Director of Public Works)
11. RESOLUTION 19007 APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
1998/99 SPREAD OF ASSESSMENTS FOR CITY OPEN SPACE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT 10,
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 3
DECLARING THE INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS AND SETTING JUNE 23, 1998
AT 6:00 P.M. AND JULY 14, 1998 AT 6:00 P.M. AS THE DATES AND TIMES FOR THE PUBLIC
HEARINGS - Based on the advice of the City Attorney, this item has been separated
due to conflict of interest concerns since two Councilmembers own property
subject to the proposed assessment in this district. Per staff's reconunendation,
the resolution was approved 3-0-0-2 (Moot and Salas abstaining). (Director of
Public Works)
Because their homes were located within the District, both Councilmember Moot and
Councilmember Salas abstained from voting on the item.
12. RESOLUTION 19008 APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR
1998/99 SPREAD OF ASSESSMENTS FOR EASTLAKE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT 1, DECLARING THE
INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS AND SETTING JUNE 23, 1998 AT 6:00 P.M.
AND JULY 14, 1998 AT 6:00 P.M. AS THE DATES AND TIMES FOR THE PUBLIC HEARINGS -
Based on the advice of the City Attorney, the item has been separated due to
conflict of interest concerns since a Councilmember owns property subject to the
proposed assessment in this district. Per staff's recommendation, the resolution
was approved 4-0-0-1 (Padilla abstaining). (Director of Public Works)
Because his home was located within the District, Councilmember Padilla abstained
from voting on the item.
13.A. RESOLUTION 19009 APPROVING FINAL MAP OF TRACT NUMBER 98-02, EASTLAKE
SOUTH GREENS, UNIT 16, ACCEPTING ON BEHALF OF THE PUBLIC THE PUBLIC STREETS
EASEMENTS DEDICATED ON SAID MAP, REJECTING ON BEHALF OF THE CITY THE OPEN SPACE
LOTS GRANTED ON SAID MAP, ACCEPTING THE EASEMENTS GRANTED ON SAID MAP WITHIN SAID
SUBDIVISION, AND APPROVING THE SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE
COMPLETION OF IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED BY SAID SUBDIVISION AND AUTHORIZING THE Fd%YOR
TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT - On July 18, 1989, Council approved the Tentative
Subdivision Map for Tract 88-3, Eastlake South Greens; and On February 10, 1998,
Council approved the Tentative Subdivision Map for Tract 98-02 for Eastlake South
Greens, Unit 16. The two resolutions contain conditions of approval applicable
to Eastlake South Greens, Unit 16. Per staff's recommendation, the resolutions
were approved unanimously 5-0. (Director of Public Works)
B. RESOLUTION 19010 APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT
FOR TRACT 98-02, EASTLAKE SOUTH GREENS, UNIT 16, REQUIRING DEVELOPER TO COMPLY
WITH CERTAIN UNFULFILLED CONDITIONS OF RESOLUTIONS NUMBER 15200 AND 18887 AND
AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE SAME
14.A. RESOLUTION 19011 APPROVING FINAL MAP OF TRACK NUMBER 98-03, EASTLAKE
SOUTH GREENS, UNIT 10, ACCEPTING ON BEHALF OF THE PUBLIC THE PUBLIC STREETS
DEDICATED ON SAID MAP, REJECTING ON BEHALF OF THE CITY THE OPEN SPACE LOTS
GRANTED ON SAID MAP, ACCEPTING THE EASEMENTS GRANTED ON SAID MAP WITHIN SAID
SUBDIVISION, AND APPROVING THE SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE
COMPLETION OF IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED BY SAID SUBDIVISION AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR
TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT - On July 18, 1989, Council approved the Tentative
Subdivision Map for Tract 88-3, Eastlake South Greens; and on February 10, 1998,
Council approved the Tentative Subdivision Map for Tract 98-03 for Eastlake South
Greens, Unit 10. The two resolutions contain conditions of approval applicable
to Eastlake South Greens, Unit 10. Per staff's recommendation, the resolutions
were approved unanimously 5-0. (Director of Public Works)
B. RESOLUTION 19012 APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT
FOR TRACT 98-03, EASTLAKE SOUTH GREENS, UNIT 10, REQUIRING DEVELOPER TO COMPLY
WITH CERTAIN UNFULFILLED CONDITIONS OF RESOLUTIONS NUMBER 15200 AND 18888 AND
AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE SAME
* * * END OF CONSENT CALENDAR * * ,
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 4
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
· Greg Campbell, 531 Flower Street, Chula Vista, 91910, representing Mrs.
Alma Rita Smith, a 93 year old retired school teacher, stated that he has been
taking care of her property. Last week she received a notice in the mail to
remove the graffiti from her wall. He talked to Code Enforcement and was told
that if they didn't either paint over the graffiti or remove the wall, the matter
would be turn over to the City Attorney. He felt her constitutional rights have
been violated since it was her property not the City's. In fining her for
graffiti that gang members did, he did not feel it was right. Because she felt
threatened by the City, he tore her wall down. He felt this whole thing was
wrong.
Mayor Horton stated that under our ordinance, it is the owner's responsibility
to remove graffiti. If there are some unusual circumstances where one cannot
correct the situation, the City would then provide assistance.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND RELATED RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
15. PUBLIC HEARING PCM 98-10; REQUEST TO AMEND THE GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN,
SITE UTILIZATION PLAN AND LAND USE MAp FOR RANCHO DEL REY SPECIFIC PLANNING AREA
(SPA) III IN ORDER TO CHANGE DESIGNATION ON SUBJECT PARCEL FROM CPF (COMMUNITY
PURPOSE FACILITY) TO OS-3 (OPEN SPACE) TO ALLOW THE PRIMARY USE OF THE SITE TO
BE USED FOR A "FOR-PROFIT" DAY CARE - RANCHO DEL REY INVESTORS, L.P. - The
proposal is to amend the Rancho del Rey SPA III Plan in order to change the
designation of the 1.8 acre project site from CPF to 0S-3. The Project Site is
located northeast of the intersection of Paseo Ladera and Paseo Entrada, one
block north of Telegraph Canyon Road. The current CPF Land Use Designation
allows the site to be used only for "non profit" Community Purpose Facilities
which are ancillary to another permitted use (i.e. church). Therefore, the
applicant is now requesting an amendment to the SPA III Plan in order to change
the land use designation from CPF to OS-3. At the present time, the applicant
wishes to market the site for a "for profit" day care facility as the primary use
on the site. Per staff's recommendation, Council placed the ordinance on first
reading and approved the resolution 4-0-0-1 (Moot abstaining). (Director of
Planning)
ORDINANCE 2733 AMENDING THE RANCHO DEL REY SECTIONAL PLANNING AREA III
PLAN BY CHANGING THE LAND USE DESIGNATION FROM CPF (COMMUNITY PURPOSE FACILITY)
TO OS-3 (OPEN SPACE) ON A 1.8 ACRE PARCEL LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF
PASEO LADERA AND PASEO ENTRADA (first reading)
RESOLUTION 19013 APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO THE RANCHO DEL REY SECTIONAL
PLANNING AREA (SPA) PLAN GENERAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND SITE UTILIZATION PLAN IN
ORDER TO CHANGE THE DESIGNATION FROM CPF (COMMUNITy PURPOSE FACILITY) TO OS-3
(OPEN SPACE) ON A 1.8 ACRE PARCEL LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF PASEO LADERA
AND PASEO ENTRADA
Councilmember Moot indicated that he would be abstaining on the item since it
involved Rancho del Rey. Mr. Moot step down from the dais.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was declared
open. There being no one indicating a desire to address the Council, the public
hearing was closed.
ORDINANCE 2733 WAS PLACED ON FIRST READING AND RESOLUTION 19013 OFFERED BY
COUNCILMEMBER RINDONE, headings read, texts waived, passed and approved 4-0-0-1
(Moot abstaining).
16. PUBLIC HEARING PCS 98-07/PCM 98-33; REQUEST FOR A TENTATIVE SUBDIVISION
MAP WITH 28 SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED UNITS AND AN AMENDMENT TO THE RANCHERO
SECTIONAL PLANNING AREA PLAN TO ALLOW A REDUCTION IN CURRENT DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS FOR A PROJECT LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF EAST "J" STREET BETWEEN
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 5
RIVER ASH DRIVEAND THE PRESENT TERMINUS OF WILD OAK DRIVE AT PASEO LADERA WITHIN
THE PC ZONE - WESTERN PACIFIC HOUSING - The proposal is to: (1) Subdivide a
parcel consisting of 5.25 gross acres into lots ranging in size from
approximately 5,000 square feet to 8,300 square feet; and (2) Amend the
development standards contained in the Ranchero Sectional Planning Area (SPA)
Plan to allow a reduction in minimum lot sizes and set back requirements. Per
staff's recommendation, Council approved the project in accordance with the
Planning Commission's recommendations, and set the time and place for the Public
Hearing for 6:00 p.m. July 14, 1998. (Director of Planning)
A. RESOLUTION 19014 ADOPTING NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND GRANTING APPROVAL OF
A TENTATIVE MAP TO ALLOW THE SUBDIVISION OF 5.25 GROSS ACRES INTO 28 SINGLE
FAMILY LOTS RANGING IN SIZE FROM 5,000 TO 8,300 SQUARE FEET ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF
EAST "J" STREET BETWEEN RIVER ASH DRIVE AND THE CURRENT TERMINUS OF WILD OAK ROAD
OFF PASEO LADERA
B. RESOLUTION 19015 APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE RANCHERO SECTIONAL
pLANNING AREA (SPA) PLAN IN ORDER TO CHANGE THE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS APPLICABLE
TO SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED RESIDENTIAL LOTS FOR LOTS 1 THRU 28 AS SHOWN ON TRACT
MAP PCS 98-07
C. RESOLUTION 19016 DECLARING THE INTENT TO INCREASE THE OPEN SPACE DISTRICT
NUMBER 10 ASSESSMENT ON SUBDIVISION TRACT 98-07, BELLA NEVONA, AND SETTING THE
TIME AND PLACE FOR THE PUBLIC HEARING
Jeff Steichen, Associate Planner, presented the staff report.
Councilmember Moot asked since two councilmembers lived in District 10, shouldn't
the assessment issue be bifurcated and voted on separately.
Ann Moore, Assistant City Attorney, responded that if two of the councilmembers
live within the assessment district, it would be better to bifurcate that issue
and have the two councilmembers not vote. However, they could vote on the other
portion.
This being the time and place as advertised, the public hearing was opened.
Expressing Opposition to the project were:
· Jesus Rodriguez, 957 Wild Oak Road, Chula Vista, 91910.
· Teri Rodriguez, 957 Wild Oak Road, Chula Vista, 91910.
Representing the developer were:
· Ryan Green, 2385 Camino Vida Roble, No 107, Carlsbad, 92009, representing
Western Pacific Housing. He was present to respond to any questions that Council
may have about the site.
· Craig Beam, 600 W. Broadway, Ste 2600, San Diego, representing Western
Pacific Housing. He stated that this permit, a low impact Habitat Conservation
Plan, is exceedingly rare and is the first one issued in the United States. The
standards for obtaining this in terms of the lack of impact which the Service
will allow to happen is extremely rare.
· Mark Dodero, biologist from RECON, stated he had performed the original
biological survey in September 1997 and found a pair of California gnatcatchers
on the site. In addition to doing a biological survey, he did vegetation mapping
of the site. It was determined that this particular site was not a coastal sage
scrub habitat, because of the dominance of a desert species brittle bush. At the
request of the applicant, he wrote a Habitat Conservation Plan and presented it
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 6
to the Fish and Wildlife Service. The Service concurred that the vegetation on
site was not coastal sage scrub and issued a permit for "take" of the
gnatcatchers on site based on these basic guidelines. The Habitat Conservation
Plan was qualified as a low effect Habitat Conservation Plan, because there were
minor or negligible effects on federally listed species and minor or negligible
effects on other environmental resources as well as no significant cumulative
effects as an implementation of this project. The Fish and Wildlife concurred
with the vegetation mapping and the analysis that was done and issued a permit
on May 6 for the Habitat Conservation Plan.
Councilmember Rindone asked who made the selection of land and why was the land
that was designated for mitigation so far away.
Mr. Dodero responded that the applicant made the land selection which was
acceptable to Fish and Wildlife. It was in an approved mitigation area which was
an approved site for the Fish and Wildlife to accept mitigation since there was
a mitigation bank set up in that area. It was easy for the applicant to purchase
land as far as mitigation for impacts.
Since there was no one else indicating a desire to address the Council, the
public hearing was declared closed.
Councilmember Moot asked: (1) wasn't this project originally in part Of the
Rancho del Rey SPA; (2) was it always zoned residential; and (3) how many units
was it originally zoned for.
Robert Leiter, Planning Director, responded that it was actually part of the
Ranchero Specific Plan which was separate from the Rancho del Rey Plan. It was
always zoned residential, and it was designated as part of the overall project
with a total of 415 dwelling units. They were to be allocated over the various
parcels of the project as they developed. With the previous development, we were
down to 37 units that were totally available for this parcel and another parcel
on the other side of "J" Street.
Councilmember Moot stated it was his understanding that a "no project
alternative" might raise some constitutional "taking" issues in light of its
previous zoning. In other words, if we were to zone it "open space", then we
could be liable to the property owner under the Fifth Amendment for a "taking"
that we would have to provide compensation for.
Ms. Moore responded that to rezone the property to open space could expose the
City to that type of litigation.
Councilmember Moot stated that historically in planning for the Otay Ranch, we
have tried to move away from cul-de-sacs because they don't create the type of
neighborhoods we are trying to move towards. Also they have some issues
regarding public safety and accessing. Assuming the number of homes are equal
between the two plans, what would be the planning pros and cons of the cul-de-sac
versus a through street.
Mr. Leiter stated that the advantage of a through street is improved pedestrian
and vehicular traffic through the overall project area. What was viewed as the
specific circumstance here was the existence of a cul-de-sac in the existing
neighborhood. Staff felt that if we were Starting from scratch, we would
definitely be advocating a through street solution. But given the effort in
trying to minimize impacts on the adjoining neighborhood, staff felt in this case
the dual cul-de-sac solution was acceptable.
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 7
Councilmember Salas felt that the alternative plan with a through street was
originally what was proposed and the compromise was the cul-de-sac. She asked
if going with the cul-de-sac, did it create an additional lot. With a through
street there would have been 27 lots, but we ended up with 28 lots. She asked
which design would slow down traffic the most and which would be more beneficial
to the community.
Mr. Leiter responded that the original proposal was for 29 lots. Staff had
recommended reducing two lots to make the lot sizes more consistent with some of
the surrounding properties. The Planning Commission reviewed an application by
the applicant with 28 lots with the dual cul-de-sacs and felt that was a good
compromise with regard to the neighborhood concerns. So, the Commission tried
to weigh the pros and cons of that and came up with the 28 lots as a compromise.
The dual cul-de-sacs definitely minimize the impacts on the existing residents
on the existing cul-de-sac. This is a relatively small project and the impacts
on "J" Street would not be significant.
Councilmember Salas stated that if there was any way that we could reduce the
number of units further, she would like to see that happen.
Councilmember Padilla stated he was trying to understand what the particular
concerns were, but he did not feel that the record contained any evidence that
we are doing any kind of significant damage requiring anything other than the
assessments that we have made. The applicant has obtained an incidental "take"
permit. In looking at the history and the zoning of the lot, its clear that we
have had the current zoning with initially a requirement for the completion of
a through surface street, and the resulting cul-de-sac proposal appears to have
come out of discussions between the residents in the area and the applicant. He
felt that the record reflected a lot of effort on their part to address those
concerns. He further felt this was a situation where the applicant has put forth
a reasonable plan, has addressed the environmental concerns to the extent that
they can be addressed, has the appropriate permitting, and has worked diligently
to communicate with the residents who are really impacted in the area. Based on
that, he was prepared to move forward with the resolutions.
Councilmember Rindone stated there were two issues before us. One was removed
which was the side lot issue of 10 feet and 3 feet versus 5 feet and 5 feet; an
issue which he felt was very important. The other issue is whether this is a "no
project" or to have a project which was decided a long time ago when the mapping
was done. The more cul-de-sacs you create, the more potential problems you have.
He was willing to go along with the dual cul-de-sacs, because he felt it was part
of the compromise to the community to reduce the impacts of the traffic. Part
of what he wanted to emphasize and a lesson to be learned is that as we plan and
do the Otay Ranch, lets not make assumptions before there is build out if there
is going to be portions of different specific planning areas so there is not a
misconception. Also, look at the quality because what is really important is
insuring that we balance the rights between those who are interested in
developing and those who are interested in having no projects surrounding the
residents. He hoped that we have a workshop soon to discuss the standards and
policy issues that we will have to face as the Otay Ranch comes through, because
that standard will be very important for staff to base a lot of their
recommendations when they work with developers so that what is built in the Otay
Ranch is built with quality.
Councilmember Moot asked the applicant to comment on the difference between the
dual cul-de-sac as opposed to a through street layout and how that affects site
utilization and the amount of usable space for the houses that are built.
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 8
Mr. Green responded that with dual cul-de-sacs, you are going to have more pie
shaped lots where the house will be recessed further back to achieve the 10/3
side yard. Now, in a couple of cases, we are going to have an average of 20 feet
in depth where with a through street, we would have 30 feet.
Councilmember Moot stated he brought this up more for the benefit of the people
in the neighborhood, because sometimes there is a misconception that the number
of houses equal density equal crowding. Moving away from cul-de-sacs allows in
many cases greater site utilization which can allow for bigger back yards which
can allow for more usable property. We need to move away from the cul-de-sac
planning.
Councilmember Salas stated that previously she asked if there was a possibility
of reducing the number of lots. She wanted to know if this was something she
could get some support on with other members of the Council.
Scott Sands, Director of Development, Western Pacific Housing, stated that he
appreciated the input and they have been very sensitive to the community's
response. That is why in a very short period, they did a complete redesign of
their tentative map at great expense because they heard very clearly the desire
to minimize their impacts. Because of the off-site mitigation, the extensive
Habitat Conservation Plan requirements, the amount of site development on East
"J", the impacts on a small project with off-site mitigation, he felt that 28
units was the best that they could do. They would not be supportive if they were
asked to amend their application to 27. He further stated that the project is
borderline right now. Going from 29 to 28 units with a dual cul-de-sac has
created more storm drain systems and more sewer systems than on a through street.
Economically the total would be very significant on a small project to lose one
more lot. The cul-de-sac actually added to the cost of the project.
Mayor Horton felt she was the lone councilmember who actually supported cul-de-
sac designs. Some people choose homes on cul-de-sacs because of the privacy it
allows. It is a lifestyle choice. She felt that Council needed to take into
consideration the variety of life styles and the desires of the homeowners. She
would support the cul-de-sac design; it was the design preferred by the residents
in the area, and their lifestyle should be protected.
RESOLUTIONS 19014 and 19015 OFFERED BY MAYOR HORTON, headings read, texts waived,
passed and approved unanimously 5-0.
RESOLUTION 19016 OFFERED BY MAYOR HORTON, heading read, text waived, passed and
approved 3-0-0-2 (Moot and salas abstaining).
Councilmember Rindone requested staff come back with a proposed date for a
workshop on some of the planning issues for the Otay Ranch.
David Rowlands, City Manager, responded that this is being planned for in July.
BOARD ~34D COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS
None submitted.
ACTION ITEMS
17. RESOLUTION 19017 APPROVING PARTICIPATION IN TME STATE OF CALIFORNIA
PROCUREMENT CARD PROGRAM (CAL-CARD) - The City has an opportunity to improve the
way it does business through participation in the State of California procurement
card program. The CAL-Card program streamlines current procurement methods,
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 9
responsibly manages expenses, and reduces operating costs. This program offers
the City effective control and monitoring of acquisitions while reducing the time
and paperwork associated with traditional small dollar transactions. Staff
recommends approval of the resolution. (Director of Finance)
Staff report presented by John Coggins, Purchasing Agent.
Councilmember Moot asked what were the savings.
Mr. Coggins stated it is hard to quantify. The State of California did quantify
cost savings they had realized from a pilot program. They estimated the cost of
a purchase order being anywhere from $50 to $150 to process. Because we would
be targeting small dollar purchases (currently purchases under $2500 account for
about 80% of the orders that are issued), it only accounts for 7% of the total
value of all purchase orders in the City. These are small dollar orders that we
are spending a lot of time on to get through the system that we could be
concentrating on the higher dollar orders. That is one of the benefits of the
system. Initially only about a half dozen cards will be issued.
Councilmember Rindone asked how will this process insure that the item is even
received by the City.
Robert Powell, Finance Director, stated that currently under the petty cash
process, an employee may spend their own cash for the purchase of a small dollar
item; there isn't any real control that says that the City received that item.
It is signed off by the Department Head or other person authorized to sign off
on petty cash expenditure receipts. But the fact that the item ever made it into
the office, there is no check on that small of a dollar item. The controls On
the Procurement Card will be no better or worse on that.
Councilmember Rindone asked how do we know that the same person isn't buying
continuously from a friend who happens to have a certain store and funnels a lot
of City business into that small business in the community. How do we safeguard
against that.
Mr. Coggins replied it would be through the management reports. The approving
authority would be looking at the statements as they come through for their
individual employees. He would get reports for all purchases made city-wide as
well as the Accounts Payable Section. So we would have two separate areas
looking at all city-wide purchases made with the Procurement Cards.
Councilmember Rindone suggested that we do this for a trial period of six months
and have a report come back.
David Rowlands, City Manager, stated this is probably the most controlled process
you can have. There is an audit trail. There are no cash transactions. One of
the fears he has is that there is a lot of cash that goes out in the City. This
is a fail-safe system. There is review. There is documentation. That is why
he feels very firmly that this is the only way to go across the board in the
City. You are protected. There is an audit trail that is very clean.
Mayor Horton agreed and supported the recommendation of Resolution 19017 as long
as she was not getting one of the cards. She understood Mr. Rindone's concerns.
However, she did not think there needed to be a trail period, but suggested that
staff come back with a report within six months as to how the program was
working. She could see how the accounting would be more documented and a safer
environment within the departments.
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 10
Councilmember Padilia felt that clearly for auditing purposes this was much
cleaner. It does save some processing costs. He supported it and agreed that
staff should come back within a few months with a progress report.
Councilmember Rindone added to the motion that the City Manager come back within
120 days from the date the program is instituted with a report.
RESOLUTION 19017 OFFERED BY MAYOR MORTON, heading read, text waived, passed and
approved unanimously 5-0 with staff bringing a progress report back to Council
120 days from the date the program is instituted.
18. RESOLUTION 19018 APPROVING THE INDUSTRIAL LAND TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS
AND DIRECTING STAFF TO IMPLEMENT - On October 9, 1997, staff presented a report
regarding the lack of adequate industrially zoned land in Chula Vista at a joint
Planning Commission/City Council Workshop. The report addressed the decreasing
supply of "deliverable" industrial acreage and the increasing industrial demand
both in the City and County-wide. Public testimony was received. The Planning
Commission and Council requested that the Economic Development Commission (EDC)
establish a Task Force to review the issues discussed at the workshop and that
staff and the EDC return to Council with specific recommendations. An Industrial
Land Task Force was formed, composed of the EDC Chair, the Planning Commission
Chair, the Mayor, and five EDC Commissioners. Staff recommends approval of the
resolution. (Director of Community Development)
MSUC (Rorton/Moot) to continue the item to June 23, 1998.
19. RESOLUTION 19019 APPROVING THE HIRING OF A TEMPORARY EXPERT PROFESSIONAL
AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS On March 31, 1998, Council waived the consultant
selection process and authorized staff to negotiate contracts with various
engineering consultants for plan review services. Staff negotiation with several
companies reached an impasse due either to consultants' expensive wage rates or
their insistence on revising our standard two part agreement pertaining to the
hold harmless clause. Staff recommends Council approve the resolution
authorizing staff to offer the existing Temporary Expert Professional Position
to Donna Snider at $55.00 per hour, and appropriate $20,000 to account 1401-5201
based On receipts received from developer deposits. (Director of Public Works)
4/5th's vote required.
Staff had no additional comments.
Mayor Horton added that she felt that not only within this department, but within
other departments we need to make sure that we have the staff available to
accommodate the needs of the City. She is assuming that we are moving forward
in that direction. She felt we needed to make sure that we can adequately handle
what is coming across the counters in all the departments.
RESOLUTION 19019 OFFERED BY MAYOR MORTON, heading read, text waived, passed and
approved unanimously 5-0.
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
(No items were pulled)
Minutes
May 26, 1998
Page 11
OTHER BUSINESS
20. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT(S)
City Manager announced that on July 16, there will be a workshop on the Library
Master Plan. In response to Mr. Rindone's comments on the planning standards,
we will try to have that on a light agenda in July. He also reminded Council
that on June 9th will be the budget presentation by staff. Budget workshops will
be scheduled for June 11, 17, and 18. Adoption of the budget will occur on June
23.
21. MAYOR'S REPORT(S) - none
22. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Salas
Councilmember Salas presented a Resolution
Protectionist Milk Marketing Regulations.
MSUC (Salas/Horton) to approve the Resolution.
urging repeal of California's
Councilmember Rindone
Councilmember Rindone stated that East "j" Street used to be a cul-de-sac until
it was punched through. He has observed that the bus route goes across River
Ash, Blackman, and then back up Paseo Ladero which is ridiculous. He referred
this to staff to look at routing the bus straight out East "J" Street now that
the street is punched through.
Councilmember Rindone stated he had received a copy of a letter which was about
an item that was brought up at the City Council meeting last week regarding the
MTDB land and negotiations. (Item was on the Redevelopment Agency agenda dealing
with a Special Use Permit for the establishment of the San Diego County South Bay
Health & Human Services Agency Family Resource Center at 675 Oxford Street). He
referred this to staff to work with MTDB regarding this, and he will have MTDB
staff work with the City, so that we can get this resolved in a relatively short
period of time to everyone's benefit.
The meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
ADJOURNMENT
Res ectfull~_u~b~
~ Authelet, CMC/AAE
City Clerk