HomeMy WebLinkAboutcc min 2008/12/09MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA
December 9, 2008
6:00 P.M.
A Regulaz Meeting of the City Council of the City of Chula Vista was called to order at 6:05
p.m. in the Council Chambers, located in City Hall, 276 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, California.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmembers Bensoussan, Castaneda, McCann, Ramirez, and Mayor
Cox
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT: Interim City Manager Tulloch, Interim City Attorney Miesfeld, City Clerk
Noms, and Deputy City Clerk Bennett
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG AND MOMENT OF SILENCE
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
• OATH OF OFFICE
Christopher Shilling to the Board of Ethics
City Clerk Norris administered the oath of office to Mr. Shilling, and Councilmember Castaneda
presented him with a certificate of appointment.
• INTRODUCTION BY REDEVELOPMENT & HOUSING ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
ERIC CROCKETT, OF EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH, LEILANI HINES,
PRINCIPAL PROJECT COORDINATOR
Redevelopment & Housing Assistant Director Crockett introduced employee of the month,
Leilani Hines. Mayor Cox read the proclamation and Councilmember McCann presented it to
Leilani.
• INTRODUCTION BY RECREATION DIRECTOR BUCK MARTIN OF ISRAEL
GARZA, CHAIR OF THE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION AND
PRESIDENT OF THE CHULA VISTA YOUTH SPORTS COUNCIL, AND PAUL
ARRIOLA, CHULA VISTA RESIDENT, WHO WAS SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE
ON THE UNDER 14'S U.S. NATIONAL SOCCER TEAM
Recreation Director Martin introduced Israel Garza, who recognized Paul Arriola as the only San
Diego resident selected to participate on the under-14 U.S. National soccer team. He also
introduced Paul's parents, his head coach, and fellow team members present at the meeting. Mr.
Martin then presented Paul with a token of appreciation on behalf of the City.
Page 1 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (Continued)
RECOGNITION BY CONSERVATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
DIRECTOR MICHAEL MEACHAM OF KOHL'S DEPARTMENT STORE AND
HOME DEPOT FOR THEIR DONATIONS TO THE CITY'S ENVIRONMENTAL
PROGRAMS
Environmental Services Director Meacham recognized Kohl's department store for its
contributions to the City and for its volunteer efforts. He then introduced Kohl's representative,
Ana Fajazdo and her son, Jose Fajardo.
Director Meacham also recognized Home Depot for its partnership with the City, and for its
work with composting and recycling workshops. He further stated that Home Depot had
volunteered to fund costs for the holiday lighting at City Hall. He then recognized and
introduced Chula Vista Home Depot's Store Manager, Janet Wheeler.
PRESENTATION BY CITY STAFF ON THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE
CHULA VISTA/SDG&E LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP, WHICH
PROVIDES ENERGY EFFICIENCY SERVICES TO LOCAL RESIDENTS,
BUSINESSES AND CITY OPERATIONS AND HELPS LOWER MONTHLY
UTILITY COSTS
Director Meacham presented the SDG&E/CPUC Partnership Program, and recognized City
departments that contributed to these efforts. Director of Engineering Hopkins presented the
Municipal Facilities improvements component of the program.
Deputy Building Official El Khazen presented the Sustainable Communities Outreach portion of
the program. Building Inspector McGuire further explained the program's goal of educating the
public on energy conservation, including rebate programs.
Economic Development Manager Stone presented the Redevelopment and Economic
Development component of the program.
Environmental Resource Manager Reed presented the Community Energy Efficiency portion of
the program. He then introduced Risa Baron, Program Supervisor, Local Government
Partnership Program, who thanked the City for its leadership, stating that the City's program was
recognized by the California Public Utilities Commission as a model partnership.
Councilmember Ramirez suggested further outreach by City staff and SDG&E, on programs for
local businesses.
PRESENTATION BY THE FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION TO
PROVIDE INFORMATION REGARDING THE DIGITAL TV TRANSITION
SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 17, 2009
Bill Zeazs, District Director, San Diego Office for the Federal Communications Commission,
provided information regazding the digital television transition scheduled for February 17, 2009.
Contact information about the transition can be found at www.DTV.gov, or by phone at 1-888-
CALL-FCC.
Page 2 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
CONSENT CALENDAR
(Items 1-13)
Mayor Cox announced that Items 1B and 9 would be pulled from the Consent Calendar and
voted on separately.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
A. Letter of resignation from Kevin O'Neill, member of the Growth Management
Oversight Commission.
Staff recommendation: Council accept the resignation and direct the City Clerk to
post the vacancy in accordance with Maddy Act requirements.
B. This item was removed from the Consent Calendar, and considered sepazately.
2. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-274, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING A $500 DONATION FROM KOHL'S
DEPARTMENT STORES AND APPROPRIATING THE FUNDS TO THE
CONSERVATION & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT'S FISCAL
YEAR 2009 BUDGET (4/STHS VOTE REQUIRED)
In May 2008, employees from the Kohl's Department Store participated in a community
tree planting event as part of the City's Urban Shade Tree Project. The project is
administered by the Public Works and Conservation & Environmental Services
Departments, and is a community-based program to expand the number of shade trees
along public rights-of--way. As a result of the employees' participation, Kohl's
Department Store has subsequently donated $500 to help support the environmental
program. (Conservation & Environmental Services Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
3. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-275, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING AN ADDENDUM TO THE LOCAL
GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH SAN DIEGO GAS &
ELECTRIC TO CONTINUE THEIR FUNDING OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY
PROGRAMS, AND APPROPRIATING $551,808 TO THE ENERGY
CONSERVATION FUND TO PROVIDE BRIDGE FUNDING FOR THE
PARTNERSHIP THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 2009 (4/STHS VOTE REQUIRED)
The Local Government partnership between the City of Chula Vista and San Diego Gas
& Electric (SDG&E) provides funding for energy efficiency services to local residents,
businesses and City operations that reduce the amount of electricity and natural gas
consumed and lower monthly utility costs. The contract addendum would provide
"bridge funding" for the Partnership until the California Public Utilities Commission
formally approves the proposed 2009-2011 Chula Vista/SDG&E Energy Efficiency
Partnership Program (anticipated in June 2009). Approval of the addendum would allow
the City to continue its efforts to expand energy efficiency opportunities in the
community and at municipal facilities. (Conservation & Environmental Services
Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
Page 3 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
4. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-276, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA AWARDING A SERVICE CONTRACT TO KEENOLOGY
CORPORATION DBA CIPPLANNER CORPORATION FOR THE PURCHASE AND
IMPLEMENTATION OF A CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP)
PLANNING AND BUDGETING SOFTWARE SYSTEM, AMENDING THE FISCAL
YEAR 2008/2009 CIP PROGRAM, AND APPROPRIATING $120,000 FROM THE
AVAILABLE FUND BALANCE OF VARIOUS ELIGIBLE FUNDING SOURCES TO
THE "CIP MANAGEMENT EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE PURCHASE" (OP208)
PROJECT (4/STHS VOTE REQUIRED)
The existing Capital Improvement Budget program was developed in-house
approximately 18 years ago using technology developed that is now considered obsolete
and does not allow for multiple users to enter data simultaneously, is very labor intense,
is no longer supported and cannot be enhanced to fully integrate with the City IFAS or
GIS systems. After exploring various alternatives, staff is recommending the purchase of
an off-the shelf system used by other public agencies and recommended by the
Government Finance Officer Association for Capital Improvement Budget development
and project management. (City Engineer/Engineering Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-277, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING A PETITION AND DECLARING ITS
INTENTION TO INITIATE PROCEEDINGS TO CONSIDER THE FORMATION OF
AN ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR GLENHAVEN WAY FOR THE PURPOSE OF
FINANCING THE CONSTRUCTION OF STREET IMPROVEMENTS
Residential properties along Glenhaven Way, Elm Avenue and Amy Way west of First
Avenue aze currently without curbs, gutters and sidewalks and the street is deteriorating.
The City has received a petition signed by 27 of the 37 residents of this neighborhood
requesting that special assessment district proceedings be commenced for the purpose of
financing the construction of these improvements. (City Engineer/Engineering Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolutions.
6.A. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-278, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ORDERING THE MAKING OF AMENDED
REASSESSMENTS WITHIN REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2001-1 PURSUANT
TO PART 10 OF DIVISION 10 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND
DIRECTING ACTIONS WITH RESPECT THERETO
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-279, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA PRELIMINARILY APPROVING AMENDED
REASSESSMENTS WITHIN REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2001-1, ORDERING
THE PUBLIC HEARING, AND DIRECTING ACTIONS WITH RESPECT THERETO
Page 4 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
C. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-280, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ORDERING THE MAKING OF AN AMENDED
REASSESSMENT WITHIN REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2001-2 PURSUANT
TO PART 10 OF DIVISION 10 OF THE STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND
DIRECTING ACTIONS WITH RESPECT THERETO
D. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-281, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA PRELIMINARILY APPROVING AMENDED
REASSESSMENTS WITHIN REASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 2001-2, ORDERING
THE PUBLIC HEARING, AND DIRECTING ACTIONS WITH RESPECT THERETO
In the past, the City has formed assessment districts to provide funding for infrastructure
under the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913, which requires that when a parcel of land
upon which there is an unpaid assessment splits, the original assessment must be
segregated and apportioned. Apportionments aze required for parcels that are
reconfigured and/or subdivided in order to redistribute the assessment lien to the newly
created parcels. At this time, there aze a number of outstanding apportionments which
require that the assessment liens be apportioned to the newly created parcels. A public
heazing will take place on January 6, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. (City Engineer/Engineering
Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolutions.
REPORT REGARDING DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES, PARK ACQUISITION
AND DEVELOPMENT FEE, AND TRUNK SEWER CAPITAL RESERVE FUND
FEES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2008
State Government Code Section 66000 requires that local agencies assessing
Development Impact Fees (DIF) and sewer capacity charges make available specified
financial data to the public each fiscal yeaz. These reports satisfy that requirement and
have been available in the City Clerk's office for public review since November 24,
2008. A report has also been included on the Parkland Acquisition and Development
(PAD) fees for ease of reference and convenience -to the public. (Deputy City Manager,
Finance Director, Engineering Director)
Staff recommendation: Council accept the report.
RESOLUTION NO. 2008-282, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA AWARDING ATWO-YEAR PURCHASE AGREEMENT
TO BAKER & TAYLOR, WITH SIX ONE-YEAR RENEWAL OPTIONS FOR THE
PURCHASE OF LIBRARY BOOKS AND AUDIO-VISUAL MATERIALS
On September 5, 2008 the City's Purchasing Agent issued specifications to select a
primary and possibly secondazy supplier of library books and audio-visual materials for a
contracted two-yeaz period ending December 31, 2010. Four vendors, representing major
book suppliers in the public library and educational marketplace, responded. Adoption of
the resolution approves the awarding of the purchase agreement to Baker & Taylor.
(Librazy Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
Page 5 - Counci] Minutes December 9, 2008
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
9. This item was removed from the Consent Calendar, and considered sepazately.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-284, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $5,223 FROM THE BUREAU OF JUSTICE
ASSISTANCE AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE GRANT
FUND FOR THE BULLETPROOF VEST PARTNERSHIP (4/STHS VOTE
REQUIRED)
The Police Department was recently notified by the Bureau of Justice Assistance of
approved funding for the Bulletproof Vest Partnership (BVP). The BVP funding will pay
for 50% of the cost of bulletproof vests for police officers. Matching funds aze already
included in the Police budget. (Police Chief)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
11. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-285, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $150,000 FROM THE GOVERNOR'S
OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS
THEREFOR, WAIVING THE CONSULTANT SELECTION PROCESS AND
APPROVING THE CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT WITH SOUTH BAY
COMMUNITY SERVICES TO PROVIDE SERVICES FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
CASES (4/STHS VOTE REQUIRED)
The Police Department and South Bay Community Services have been working in
partnership for the past eleven yeazs providing domestic violence services to the
community. Adoption of the resolution will accept a grant from the Governor's Office of
Emergency Services for Domestic Violence Response Team services and approve a
contractual agreement with South Bay Community Services to provide said services.
(Police Chief)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
12. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-286, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $236,902 FROM THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE
OF TRAFFIC SAFETY AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE
GRANT FUND FOR THE SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT PROGRAM (4/STHS VOTE
REQUIRED)
The Police Department has received funding from the California OfI-ice of Traffic Safety
for the Sobriety Checkpoint Program. The goal of this program is to reduce the number
of victims killed and injured in alcohol-involved crashes. (Police Chief)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
Page 6 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
CONSENT CALENDAR (Continued)
13. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-287, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA ACCEPTING $49,913 FROM THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE
OF TRAFFIC SAFETY AND APPROPRIATING SAID FUNDS TO THE POLICE
GRANT FUND FOR THE CLICK-IT OR TICKET PROGRAM (4/STHS VOTE
REQUIRED)
The California Office of Traffic Safety has awazded $49,913 to the Police Department for
the Click-It or Ticket Program. The goal of the California Click-It or Ticket project is to
increase seat belt use statewide to 96% by September 8, 2009. (Police Chief)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
ACTION: Mayor Cox moved to approve staffs recommendations and offered Consent
Calendaz Items lA, 2 through 8, and 10 through 13, headings read, text waived.
Councilmember McCann seconded the motion and it carried 5-0.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Bensoussan stated that she would be abstaining from voting on Item 1B, and
Item 9, due to a potentia] conflict of interest with property ownership.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
B. Letter of resignation from Pamela Bensoussan, member of the Planning
Commission.
Staff recommendation: Council accept the resignation and direct the City Clerk to
post the vacancy in accordance with Maddy Act requirements.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 2008-283, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CHULA VISTA APPROVING A MILLS ACT CONTRACT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA AND THE OWNERS OF THE HISTORIC SITE
LOCATED AT 201 "I" STREET AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO SIGN SAID
AGREEMENT
In accordance with Council Policy #454-01, staff has prepazed a contract for the owners
of 201 "I" Street (Historic Site #74), who have requested to participate in the Mills Act
program. Upon authorization by the City Council, the City will enter into the agreement,
which will then be forwarded to the County Assessor's office for recordation, making the
property eligible for tax credit in the next assessed tax yeaz. (Planning & Building
Director)
Staff recommendation: Council adopt the resolution.
ACTION: Mayor Cox moved to approve staffs recommendations, and offered Consent
Calendaz Items 1B and 9, headings read, text waived. Councilmember McCann
seconded the motion and it carried 4-0-1, with Councilmember Bensoussan
abstaining.
Page 7 - Counci] Minutes
December 9, 2008
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Steve Eastis, Chula Vista resident, representing the Third Avenue Village Association, thanked
the City for its part in the well-run Starlight Yule Pazade.
Theresa Acerro, Chula Vista resident, representing the Southwest Chula Vista Civic Association,
spoke in opposition to the proposed MMC peaker power plant.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
14. CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSING CERTAIN DELINQUENT SOLID
WASTE SERVICE CHARGES AS RECORDED LIENS UPON THE RESPECTIVE
PARCELS OF LAND AND PLACEMENT OF DELINQUENT CHARGES ON THE
NEXT REGULAR TAX BILL FOR COLLECTION
Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 8.24 allows delinquent solid waste service chazges
to be assessed as recorded liens upon the affected properties and ultimately placed on the
property tax bills for collection. (Finance Director)
Notice of the heazing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the heazing was held
on the date and at the time specified in the notice.
Mayor Cox opened the public hearing. There being no members of the public who wished to
speak, Mayor Cox then closed the public heazing.
ACTION: Councilmember McCann moved to adopt the following Resolution No. 2008-288,
heading read, text waived:
RESOLUTION NO. 2008-288, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ASSESSING CERTAIN DELINQUENT SOLID
WASTE SERVICE CHARGES AS RECORDED LIENS UPON THE
RESPECTIVE PARCELS OF LAND AND APPROVING PLACEMENT OF
DELINQUENT CHARGES ON THE NEXT REGULAR TAX BILL
Councilmember Ramirez seconded the motion and it carried 5-0.
15. CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT OF CERTAIN DELINQUENT
SEWER SERVICE CHARGES AS RECORDED LIENS UPON THE RESPECTIVE
OWNER OCCUPIED PARCELS OF LAND AND PLACEMENT OF DELINQUENT
CHARGES ON THE NEXT REGULAR TAX BILL FOR COLLECTION
Chula Vista Municipal Code Section 13.14.150 allows delinquent sewer service chazges
to be assessed as recorded liens upon the affected owner occupied properties and
ultimately placed on the property tax bills for collection. (Finance Director)
Notice of the hearing was given in accordance with legal requirements, and the hearing was held
on the date and at the time specified in the notice.
Mayor Cox opened the public hearing. There being no members of the public who wished to
speak, Mayor Cox closed the public hearing.
Page 8 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
PUBLIC HEARINGS (Continued)
ACTION: Councilmember McCann moved to adopt the following Resolution No. 2008-289,
heading read, text waived:
RESOLUTION NO. 2008-289, RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF CHULA VISTA ASSESSING CERTAIN DELINQUENT
SEWER SERVICE CHARGES AS RECORDED LIENS UPON THE
RESPECTIVE OWNER OCCUPIED PARCELS OF LAND AND APPROVING
PLACEMENT OF DELINQUENT CHARGES ON THE NEXT REGULAR
TAX BILL
Councilmember Castaneda seconded the motion and it carried 5-0.
ACTION ITEM
Prior to addressing Item 16, Mayor Cox announced receipt by the City, of a recently secured
$250,000 challenge grant for the Chula Vista Nature Center, and explained how the grant
worked. To that end, Mayor Cox announced that the City had just received a $2,500 check
donation from Henry's Marketplace that would be partially matched by an anonymous donor,
and the remaining balance by the SEMPRA Foundation.
Councilmember McCann stated that he would commit $1,000 to the Friends of the Nature
Center, and he encouraged donations by the community of any sum.
16. REPORT AND CONSIDERATION OF THE INTERIM CITY MANAGER'S
PROPOSED BUDGET REDUCTIONS
Presentation of the Interim City Manager's proposed budget reductions for the 2008/2009
and 2009/2010 budgets. (Interim City Manager)
Interim City Manager Tulloch introduced the item and gave a brief recap of prior budget
workshops. He stated that the budget would also be discussed at the December 16, 2008 Council
Meeting to address the early retirement program, refinancing and Redevelopment Agency debts,
and revenue forum, with the goal of trying to reach closure by January 6, 2009. Additionally, by
prior request of the Council, he stated that the December 16th meeting would include discussion
with the Council, staff, and the public, on alternatives for revenue enhancements.
Department Directors then provided the Council with responses to Council questions and
directives from the December 4, 2008 Council Workshop.
With respect to passport services, Councilmember McCann stated that the service had resulted in
a net positive in revenues for the City, and he recommended that the program be monitored
through June 30, 2009, with ongoing monitoring thereafter, to look at any drop off points. He
stated that it did not make sense to remove arevenue-generating program.
Councilmember Castaneda stated that passport services was not a core City function, and he
spoke of the need to see what City resources were being expended to run the service, and that the
program be re-assessed on a quarterly basis.
Page 9 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
ACTION ITEM (Continued)
With respect to park reservations, Councilmember Castaneda asked staff for empirical data based
upon the number of pazk shelters, usage, and program costs, to determine whether or not park
reservation fees could be moderately increased in order to retain the services.
Regazding street lighting, Councilmember McCann requested that staff look at converting those
traffic light signals that were not already equipped with LED lighting. Further discussion ensued
between the Council and staff about dimming azea street lights as a cost savings measure.
Interim City Manager Tulloch responded that since at least three Councilmembers spoke in
opposition to the proposal, that staff would not pursue dimming or cutting any street lighting.
With respect to Pazkway Pool, Councilmember McCann suggested the installation of solaz
panels to reduce heating costs. He also encouraged reducing the pool water temperature for
further cost savings, and suggested that staff contact other cities to see what they were doing.
With respect to Police Department alarm fees, Councilmember Castaneda requested that staff
meet with the Public Safety Committee to discuss what was brought before the Council on the
matter of alarm fees/false alarms at a prior Council meeting, and to further discuss details about
the issue.
Norma Turner, Chula Vista resident, provided the Council with a letter dated December 9, 2008,
that addressed costs associated with overtime pay in the Fire Deparhnent, and she recommended
a trade system for fire personnel requesting days off. She also suggested consideration by the
Council of utilizing volunteer services for parks reservations and pazking meter monitoring, and
she spoke in opposition to eliminating the Volunteer Coordinator position.
Israel Garza, Chula Vista resident, spoke about the important role of parks and recreation in the
community, and he urged the Council not to cut programs to the point of negative returns and
risking public safety and quality of life. He suggested Council consideration of a temporary sales
tax increase to address budget issues.
Isabelle Espino, Chula Vista resident, spoke in opposition to the closure of the Eastlake Library.
Peter Watry, Chula Vista resident, suggested that the Council cut the fat before cutting the
muscle, which he defined as budget items that did not serve the citizens, including overtime pay
for firefighters, false alarm calls for the Police Department, and scheduled pay raises for Police
and Fire personnel.
Theresa Acerro, Chula Vista resident, spoke in favor of eliminating the Mayor's Chief of Staff
position, and she suggested that salary savings from the position be utilized to keep Pazkway
Pool open. She spoke in favor of eliminating caz allowances, and suggested that the
Councilmembers pay their shaze of the CalPers pension fund and reject salary increases. She
spoke in opposition to the Council decision to fill the Planning Director and Fire Chief positions,
stating that the salary savings would have been sufficient to keep the Eastlake Librazy or Nature
Center open, or keep the STRETCH and DASH programs. She spoke in opposition to a sales tax
increase until changes occurred with the way the City did business.
Page ] 0 - Counci] Minutes December 9, 2008
ACTION ITEM (Continued)
Patricia Aguilar, Chula Vista resident, spoke in support of a half-cent sales tax increase on a
temporary basis, with a sunset clause. She also suggested implementation of user fees, and
consideration by the City's employee bargaining groups to reduce, eliminate or postpone cost of
living increases.
Mitch Thompson, Chula Vista resident, asked the City's employee bargaining groups to come
back to the table to assist with addressing budget issues. With respect to matching funds by
donors for the Nature Center, he suggested implementation of some form of a conditional grant
prior to tax time. He also suggested for the long term, advertising of the Nature Center challenge
grant via Laidlaw Waste billing services, or alternative marketing. He spoke in support of
retaining passport services, and suggested formation of a citizen's task force to institutionalize
creative ways of revenue generating ideas.
Steven Pavka, Chula Vista resident, spoke in support of a sales tax increase, and spoke in
opposition to any towing fee increases. He also spoke in support of retaining the Chula Vista
Nature Center.
At 10:27 p.m., Mayor Cox announced a recess of the City Council Meeting. The meeting
reconvened at 10:48 p.m. with all members present.
Interim City Manager Tulloch informed the Council that it was staffs intent to further address
the budget at the December 16, 2008 Council Meeting on revenue generating ideas, and public
input, with the objective for the Council to reach a decision on budget reductions at the Januazy
6, 2009 Council meeting.
Director of Budget and Analysis Van Eenoo clazified a comment by one of the speakers
regazding bazgaining groups, stating that all four of the City's bazgaining groups had agreed to
come to the table.
Discussion ensued between the Council and staff regazding clazification of overtime pay for
firefighters.
Councilmember Castaneda asked staff for a timeline on a report to the Council on the feasibility
of an incremental repayment of City debt from the Redevelopment Agency. Interim City
Manager Tulloch responded that staff would provide a report to the Council on the matter prior
to the Council Meeting of December 16, 2008.
Councilmember Ramirez requested to reserve his right to re-consider whether or not to cut street
lights in portions of the City.
Mayor Cox proposed potential savings in the Office of the Mayor and Council budget in the
amount of approximately $468,000, which included elimination of the Chief of Staff position,
effective July 1, 2009. She also recommended consideration by the Council to look at reductions
in support staff to assist with cost reductions. Further discussion ensued between
Councilmember Castaneda and Mayor Cox regarding the Mayor and Council budget. To that
end, Councilmember Castaneda suggested he and Councilmember Ramirez come back with
suggestions on the Mayor's proposal in Januazy 2009.
Page 11 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
ACTION ITEM (Continued)
Councilmember Bensoussan requested that staff look at the possibility of discontinuing the
Chula Vista Redevelopment Corporation and Redevelopment Advisory Committee functions.
Interim City Manager Tulloch responded that staff would provide information to the Council at
its December 16, 2008 meeting related to associated costs and the process to undo the structure.
Councilmember Ramirez spoke regarding the Mayor/Council budget, and he suggested the
formation of a Council Subcommittee comprised of the Mayor and Councilmember Castaneda,
or he and the Mayor, to conduct a detailed discussion on the matter, and to come back to the
Council with proposed recommendations at the Council meeting of December 16, 2008.
OTHER BUSINESS
17. INTERIM CITY MANAGER'S REPORTS
There were none.
18. MAYOR'S REPORTS
Appointment of Deputy Mayor
ACTION: Mayor Cox moved to appoint Councilmember Castaneda as Deputy Mayor.
Councilmember Bensoussan seconded the motion.
Councilmember Castaneda responded, declining the position, and recommended the appointment
of Councilmember McCann as Deputy Mayor.
ACTION: Councilmember Castaneda moved to appoint Councilmember McCann as Deputy
Mayor. Mayor Cox seconded the motion and it carried 5-0.
Mayor Cox spoke about the recent visit by Governor Schwazzenegger to San Diego, and the
extraordinary amount of work being done between Senators Ducheny, Feinstein, and Boxer,
regazding the second border crossing at Otay. Mayor Cox reported that Otay 2 would be a
predominantly commercial border crossing, connecting with SR-125, with proposed project
completion in 2014.
19. COUNCILMEMBERS' COMMENTS
Deputy Mayor McCann thanked the Third Avenue Village Association (TAVA) on the recent
Stazlight Yule Pazade, and the Christmas tree lighting event. He thanked everyone for
participating in the budget process.
Councilmember Castaneda thanked TAVA and City staff on success of the Stazlight Yule
Parade.
Page 12 - Counci] Minutes December 9, 2008
COUNCILMEMBERS' COMMENTS (Continued)
Councilmember Ramirez thanked staff for their work and efforts regarding the budget, and stated
that the Council would work just as hazd to seek solutions to the budget and move forwazd in a
productive manner. He reported that his recent Public Office Hours meeting addressed the
Broadway business corridor, stating that more work would be forthcoming to assist small
businesses.
Councilmember Bensoussan thanked the Council and staff for assisting with her transition as
Councilmember, and stated that she looked forward to meeting with department heads.
Mayor Cox recessed the meeting to Closed Session at 11:36 p.m.
CLOSED SESSION
20. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL REGARDING EXISTING LITIGATION
PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(a):
A. Spatafore v. City of Chula Vista, et al., United States District Court, Case No.
07CV 1887 BEN LSP; and
B. DJ Allen v. City of Chula Vista, et al., San Diego Superior Court, Case No. 37-
2008 00069534-CU-PO-SC.
No reportable action was taken on these items.
21. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT
CODE 54957.6
A. Agency designated representatives: Scott Tulloch, Mazcia Raskin, Bart Miesfeld,
Rod Betts, Maria Kachadoorian, Edward Van Eenoo, Leah Browder
B. Employee organizations: CVEA, IAFF, POA, WCE, and Unrepresented Groups
No reportable action was taken on these items.
22. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54957:
Title: City Manager
ACTION: Deputy Mayor McCann moved to appoint James Sandoval as City Manager,
pending negotiation and execution of an employment contract. Councilmember
Ramirez seconded the motion and it carried 4-1, with Mayor Cox opposed.
Page 13 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008
CLOSED SESSION (Continued)
23. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE APPOINTMENT PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54957:
Title: City Attorney
ACTION: Councilmember Castaneda moved to appoint Bart Miesfeld as City Attorney, and
to authorize the Mayor to execute an employment contract. Deputy Mayor
McCann seconded the motion and it carried 5-0.
ADJOURNMENT
At 2:10 a.m., Mayor Cox adjourned the meeting to the Regular Meeting of December 16, 2008,
in the Council Chambers.
Lorraine Bennett, CMC, Deputy City Clerk
Page 14 -Council Minutes December 9, 2008