1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY,
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE March 10, 2014
CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY 3:00 p.m.
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, HOUSING AUTHORITY AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council, Successor
Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency, Housing
Authority, and Parking Authority to order at 3:03 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember*
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
*Councilmember O’Leary arrived at 3:19 p.m.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
March 10, 2014
2
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/
SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Study Session – Presentation of
Current and Proposed Work Plans for City Departments
John Nachbar, City Manager, clarified the purpose of the
presentation and discussed scheduling.
Chris Sellers, Fire Chief, discussed highlights for 2013-
2014 and presented an overview of the 2014-2015 Fire
Department Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
resurrecting programs lost through previous budget cuts;
Fire Station #2; the training facility; funding
opportunities; the Los Angeles Area Fire Chiefs’
Association; regional training sites; satellite training
sites; the grant process; alternate funding sources;
Emergency Management Plans; and hazardous material
inspections.
* Councilmember O’Leary joined the meeting at 3:19 p.m.
Mike Bowden, Fire Marshal, discussed City businesses and
hazardous materials; contact information; the pre-fire plan
for each business; the California Environmental Reporting
System; additional training for inspectors; and operating
within the existing budget.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and
Councilmembers regarding CERT training; lessons learned from
issues with the Los Angeles Fire Department; the work plan;
appreciation to staff for the new process; training tower
replacement; the Fire Prevention Volunteer Program;
internships; the oil drilling ordinance; training; hazardous
materials stored in Culver City; Emergency Vehicle
Technician Certification; items removed from last year’s
work plan; the Employee Operations Procedure Handbook;
changes to wording to indicate progress on tasks; the user
friendly Emergency Preparedness webpage; community outreach;
Smart 911; the Elected Officials Guide to Emergency
Management; a priority list from the Fire Department;
identifying those businesses that use the most hazardous
materials; and monitoring. March 10, 2014
3
Don Pederson, Police Chief, discussed highlights for 2013-
2014 and presented an overview of the 2014-2015 Police
Department Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
AB 109; Megan’s Law; parking control strategies; committee
meetings; AutoChalk; special permit districts; parking
enforcement upgrades; joint jurisdictional issues around
MetroRail; in-car camera systems; School District
partnerships; the school resource officer position; juvenile
diversion; investigating whether certain programs can be
reinstated; the parking enforcement workshop; the Citizen’s
Police Academy; community outreach; CicLAvia; the bike rack
in front of the Police Station; cycling events; rules of the
road; bicycle enforcement; the proposed smart phone app.;
programs in other cities; social media; Smart 911; password
retrieval; goals and milestones; the strategic plan;
increasing efficiencies and encouraging teamwork; budget
issues; organizational culture and values; license plate
scanners; effective implementation; setting priorities; City
Council feedback; recruitment; online reporting; signature
requirements; the Budget Manager; grants and grants
administration; ongoing maintenance; red light cameras;
analyzing types of accidents; actions of other cities;
public resistance; monthly reports; street sweeping; moving
parking enforcement out of the police department; the Walker
Parking Study; parking meter installations;
interdepartmental cooperation; insurance data; 911 emergency
dispatch; mandatory overtime; Coffee with a Cop; and the
impact of developments on the safety of the community.
Jeff Muir, Chief Financial Officer, discussed highlights for
2013-2014 and presented an overview of the 2014-2015 Finance
Department Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
auditing of business taxes; home businesses; Muni Services;
the Business Tax Inspector; confusion with the business tax
bill; auditing focus; higher dollar tax payers; outsourcing
of payment processing; and appreciation to staff for their
hard work.
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
March 10, 2014
4
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 5:00 p.m., the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Housing Authority, and Parking Authority adjourned
their meeting to the Regular Meeting of Monday, March 10, 2014
at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and Secretary of the
Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE March 10, 2014
CITY COUNCIL 5:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
5:00 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:00 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (3 items)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation – 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4)
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: City of Culver City, et al. v. Michael Cohen, et al.
Case No. 34-2013-80001719
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
CS-4 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: Juanita Alamillo v. Culver City
Case No. SC116196
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
o0o March 10, 2014
2
Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:12 p.m.
with all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Kristin Bell.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from closed
session.
o0o
Presentation
Item P-1
Presentation of Certificates of Recognition to Participants in
the Los Angeles Marathon from the City's Sister City of Kaizuka,
Japan
Marla Wolkowitz, Culver City Sister City Committee, Inc.
thanked the City for helping celebrate the 50
th
anniversary of
the sister city relationship with Uruapan, Mexico; she
announced upcoming anniversaries with other cities; and
discussed various marathons.
Matt Seeberger, Exchange Marathon Chairman, thanked the City
for its assistance and introduced marathon participants who
thanked the City for their support, encouraged everyone to
visit Kaizuka, and presented gifts to the City Council.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells presented certificates of recognition
to the runners.
Mayor Cooper presented the runners with gifts.
o0o
March 10, 2014
3
Community Announcements by City Councilmembers/Information
Items from Staff
Mayor Cooper reported making the opening remarks at the Youth
and Government meeting; discussed the proposed fracking ban
proposed by the City of Los Angeles; and received City Council
consensus to agendize a discussion of a moratorium and ban on
fracking for consideration at the meeting of March 24, 2014.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
the draft drilling ordinance; the draft timeline; options;
actions of the City of Los Angeles; the specific plan; the
discussion draft; public comment; industry comment;
regulations to protect the health and safety of residents;
proposals by the Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources
(DOGGR); the effectiveness of working regionally; outreach;
and enhanced power by working as a joint coalition.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells announced the Annual Fundraiser for the
Youth Health Center on March 15; Casino Night at the High
School on March 15; discussed the work of the Sustainability
Subcommittee on the Parkway Ordinance and announced an
informational meeting on March 20 at City Hall; asked about
the availability of staff to make presentations at
Neighborhood Association meetings; and the Parkway survey on
the City website.
Councilmember O’Leary received clarification regarding
responsibility for sinkholes in the parkway after tree
plantings.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells announced the next meeting of the
Community Advisory Panel on March 27 at the Kenneth Hahn
Recreation Center.
Councilmember O’Leary wished everyone a happy and safe St.
Patrick’s Day; reported missing the Expo. Board meeting but
attending the Joint Policy Committee meeting of Southern
California Association of Governments; discussed water issues;
fixing water problems outside of the state; a 1968 law
prohibiting California from importing water; and his
appointment to the Commission on Alcohol and Other Drugs.
Mayor Cooper commended Councilmember O’Leary for his
leadership and for pointing out water issues in many northern
states.
March 10, 2014
4
Councilmember Weissman discussed the many achievements of Red
Betts in the City and requested that the meeting be adjourned
in his memory.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Alan Corlin discussed the Community Benefits Program for
developers; a project in process on Washington Boulevard;
mitigated negative declarations; tandem parking; community
benefits vs. density tradeoffs; rents and profits collected
from additional dwellings; his perspective as a former
Councilmember; and he requested consideration of revisiting
the allowable maximum density per acre in Culver City, the
Community Benefits Program, and the granting of mitigated
negative declarations based on incremental increases being
below a particular threshold of a project and not taking into
consideration the area as a whole.
Jennifer Mulder, Vox Femina, thanked the City for their
support; announced their upcoming Performing Arts Grant
supported free concert at the Culver City Presbyterian Church
on March 16.
Mark Hensley discussed energy efficiency in Culver City;
suggested instituting a program called CCHERP or the Culver
City Home Energy Retrofit Program sponsored by the Energy
Network, Energy Upgrade California, Southern California Edison
and the Gas Company; he discussed education; other
participating cities; he asked to be placed on a future agenda
so that the developer could make a presentation; and noted
that he had already been working with the City.
Mayor Cooper encouraged Mr. Hensley to provide staff with
information and make a presentation to the Sustainability
Subcommittee.
Dr. Janet Hoult discussed Arbor Day and the Urban Forest.
Charles Hoult discussed an article in Culver City Life; the
long term plan of the City; the tree survey project; resident March 10, 2014
5
input; notification; the survey process; and acceptable tree
species.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the study to develop a sustainability plan for the urban
forest; the RFP process; the evaluation stage to select a
consultant; community outreach; public meetings and input; and
the notification list.
Kevin Klowden asserted that Coral trees were difficult to
maintain; he thanked Councilmember O‘Leary for his work
regarding water issues; requested transparency regarding 4545
Sepulveda; expressed concern with long-term environmental
costs when compressors are removed; and the decision-making
process of the property owner.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
4545 Sepulveda Boulevard; alleviating safety concerns; whether
the property would continue as an ice rink; the specific use
variance; existing regulations; and the focus of the City to
abate a public safety hazard.
Tamara Coffin discussed the actions of Mr. Karagozian, and
expressed concern with a lack of communication or compromise
and the loss of revenue to surrounding businesses.
J.E. Brockm expressed support for a collaboration with Los
Angeles for a moratorium on fracking; asserted that SB4 would
not protect the City; discussed cooperation by the oil
company; water usage; ground water; regulating earthquakes;
injection wells; the United States Geological Survey;
accidents that accompany fracking; hydrogen sulfide; the Air
Quality Management District; she urged everyone to attend a
Community Advisory Panel meeting; and she asserted that
regulations would not protect the City, and that a moratorium
was necessary.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells encouraged anyone who smelled odors or
sees a car emitting significant pollution to call 1-800-CUT-
SMOG.
Josetta Sbeglia spoke representing the Culver City Arts
District; discussed growth of the district; other businesses
in the arts district; she requested support from the City
Council for a Summer Solstice Event on June 21; discussed Make
Music L.A.; provided posters and postcards to the City; and March 10, 2014
6
noted that entertainment would be provided on private
property.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF RED BETTS.
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR FEBRUARY 15, 2014 – FEBRUARY 28, 2014.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
ITEMS C-2, C-3 (EXCLUDING THE NICKERSON COMPANY), C-4 AND C-5.
Item C-2
(Out of Order)
Approval of a Purchase and Sale Agreement with Asher Harel
Regarding City-Owned Property Located at 10745 Cranks Road
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT TO SELL THE 10745
CRANKS ROAD PROPERTY TO ASHER HAREL IN THE AMOUNT OF $900,000;
AND,
March 10, 2014
7
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE TO PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-3
Approval of Professional Services Agreements with APA
Engineering, Inc., APD Consultants, Inc., CivilSource Inc.,
Dudek, Interwest Consulting Group, KOA Corporation, Project
Partners, RTI Consulting, Inc., and The Nickerson Company for
General Public Works Inspection Services
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH APA
ENGINEERING, INC., APD CONSULTANTS, INC., CIVILSOURCE INC.,
DUDEK, INTERWEST CONSULTING GROUP, KOA CORPORATION, PROJECT
PARTNERS, AND RTI CONSULTING, INC., FOR GENERAL PUBLIC WORKS
INSPECTION SERVICES IN AN AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $500,000 AND
EXPIRING ON JUNE 30, 2017; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-4
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment Agreement
with Time Warner Cable for Use of the Public Rights-of-
Way on Selmaraine Drive and in an Alley West of Sepulveda
Boulevard and South of Slauson Avenue
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT WITH
TIME WARNER CABLE; AND
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND, March 10, 2014
8
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF
OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-5
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment Agreement
with Zayo Group for Use of the Public Rights-of-Way on Hannum
Avenue and Bristol Parkway
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT WITH
ZAYO GROUP;
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF
OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-1
(Out of Sequence)
Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Clarke referenced an article in California Cities
about cities that are moving away from written, printed minutes.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding the
usefulness of printed meeting minutes and the need for further
research and discussion of the matter.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE
MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 2014.
o0o
March 10, 2014
9
Item C-3
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of Professional Services Agreements with APA
Engineering, Inc., APD Consultants, Inc., CivilSource Inc.,
Dudek, Interwest Consulting Group, KOA Corporation, Project
Partners, RTI Consulting, Inc., and The Nickerson Company for
General Public Works Inspection Services
Councilmember O’Leary discussed the RFP process.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding the
nature of the process and advantages of having multiple
companies to choose from.
Councilmember Weissman recused himself from the item and exited
the dais.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE NICKERSON
COMPANY FOR GENERAL PUBLIC WORKS INSPECTION SERVICES IN AN
AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $500,000 AND EXPIRING ON JUNE 30, 2017; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
March 10, 2014
10
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
(1) Approval of Assignment of All Rights, Interests and
Obligations Related to Certain Parking Facilities from the
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency to
the City of Culver City; and, (2) Adoption by the Successor
Agency of a Resolution Approving Revisions to the Long Range
Property Management Plan Submitted to the State Department of
Finance and Making a Finding that Assignment of Successor
Agency Obligations to the City is Consistent with the
Intentions of State Assembly Bill ABx1 26 as Amended by AB
1484
Glenn Heald, Management Analyst, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
direct costs to the City; compensation agreements; tax
liabilities; benefits vs. costs; retention of the parking
structures and lots; consideration of parking related issues;
the disposition and development of projects that have been
pending; the significance of the item; and the conditional
approval.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson discussed the Walker Parking Study; kicking the
can down the road; lost opportunities; taking advantage of the
parking study; procrastination; and he asked the City to take
advantage of opportunities.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ACCEPT
ASSIGNMENT OF ALL OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY'S RIGHTS, TITLE,
INTEREST, POWERS, PRIVILEGES AND OTHER INCIDENCES OF OWNERSHIP
IN AND TO ALL DISPOSITION AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT(S) AND
PARKING AGREEMENTS ENCUMBERING THE SIX PARKING FACILITIES
PROPOSED FOR RECLASSIFICATION AS “PROPERTIES TO BE RETAINED TO
FULFILL ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATIONS” AS IDENTIFIED HEREIN, AND
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO TAKE ALL NECESSARY,
REASONABLE AND APPROPRIATE ACTIONS TO IMPLEMENT THE TRANSFER
OF ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE March 10, 2014
11
CITY, AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY CLERK TO EXECUTE CERTIFICATES OF
ACCEPTANCE.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
(1) Receipt and Filing of the Preliminary Fiber Network Design
and Business Plan Framework, and (2) Discussion of Fiber
Feasibility Plan Executive Summary and Direction to the City
Manager as Deemed Appropriate
Michele Williams, Chief Information Officer, provided a
presentation on the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
engagement of the business community; reduced fees from ISPs
if the City builds the infrastructure; incorporating the needs
of schools into the plan; the timeframe; the service provider;
Culver Studios; partnerships; and smaller businesses vs.
Larger businesses.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson asked that previous City Council approval of
WiFi for the entire City be realized; he discussed cable
internet; and serving residents and businesses.
Paul Ehrlich provided a broad overview of an email he had sent
to Councilmembers with questions and comments; discussed the
notification process for the meeting; concern with not getting
a return on money invested in Phase 1 and 2; Phase 3 and 4;
covering the entire City; timing of the bills; he suggested
involving larger businesses; establishing a Board of Directors
consisting of the City and IT experts at large businesses;
discussed the potential contribution of larger businesses;
lowering costs; Wilshire One; other co-locations; proximity;
and looking at other models.
CCUSD Board Member Steve Levin discussed interest by the
School District; working with the City on the schedule and the March 10, 2014
12
fiber optic network; a suggestion to work together earlier in
the process; and Common Core.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells clarified that it was early in the
process, and she questioned whether the School District would
be willing to participate financially.
CCUSD Board Member Sue Robins discussed partnerships between
the School District, the City and the business community;
preparing youth for jobs in the City; and she asked that the
School District be included in an earlier phase and considered
in the planning.
Steven Rose, President/CEO of the Culver City Chamber of
Commerce, indicated that the item was a result of economic
development outreach in the City; discussed challenges to
redevelop areas; the reason for targeting smaller businesses;
buildings with multiple businesses; and creating “Silicon
Hills.”
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
support for further discussion with anyone interested in
joining the enterprise; Common Core; openness of the process;
the need of the community; the return on investment; involving
the School District; building a system capable of growth; home
businesses; the importance of providing service to libraries
and City facilities; companies already providing fiber in the
City; concern with potential price undercutting; different
models; including public benefits in the economic analysis;
marketing to attract new businesses; discerning demand and
interest in the five target areas; the human component; next
steps in the process; existing infrastructure; price
estimates; providing service to target businesses vs. the
entire City; the competitive arena; political implications;
the break-even point; conservative estimates; indirect
revenues; responsibility of the business owners to connect to
the tap; cost sharing; monthly fees; operational aspects of
the project; maintaining the network and running the business;
the potential need for contracted assistance; and incumbent
carriers.
o0o
Item A-2
Discussion of Event Sponsorship Policy and Direction to the
City Manager March 10, 2014
13
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson discussed differing rules for different events;
violations; the Committee on Permits and Licenses; penalties
for non-compliance; the involvement of the Mayor with a group
that has violated the rules; and a request that rules and
regulations be attached to the conditions of events.
Seth Horowitz, Culver Hotel, discussed confusion with
receiving information on the item; questioned why a
presentation had not been made; expressed concern with impacts
to the downtown area; noted the importance of the item;
discussed the proposed expansion of Town Plaza; and community,
business and residential benefits of events taking place
around the City.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
holding the item to be included as part of the planned
discussion on specific sponsorships for March 24, 2014 to
allow time for the Downtown Business Association (DBA) and
others to analyze the item.
Steven Rose, President and CEO of the Culver City Chamber of
Commerce, suggested as part of application requirements that
any organization requesting sponsorship provide their non-
profit status from the Internal Revenue Service, a copy of
their current liability insurance, a copy of their IRS filing,
and their business license.
Eric Sims, Downtown Business Association (DBA), echoed the
comments of Mr. Rose noting the importance of accountability
and consideration of track record; he requested additional
time to consider the report; he noted the importance of dialog
with staff regarding pros and cons of events and impacts to
business in the area; he requested that the downtown
businesses be included as part of any plan involving
programming events in the area; he asserted that the more that
the DBA is involved in the events, the more successful events
can be; and that DBA involvement be formalized in the
discussion.
Councilmembers Weissman received clarification that the City
did not limit sponsorships to non-profits. March 10, 2014
14
The City Council agreed to defer the item for consideration on
March 24, 2014.
o0o
Item A-3
Adopt a Resolution approving a Joint Application with the City
of Los Angeles and CicLAvia for Grant Funds through Los
Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Open
Streets Program for the CicLAvia Culver City Event
Councilmember O’Leary recused himself from consideration of
the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A
JOINT APPLICATION WITH THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES AND CICLAVIA
FOR GRANT FUNDS THROUGH LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY’S OPEN STREETS PROGRAM FOR THE
CICLAVIA CULVER CITY EVENT. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
RECUSED: O’LEARY
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
Items from Councilmembers
Items from Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells
• Reported on her visit to Washington D.C. where she spoke
at the National Bike Summit regarding Political Activity
and Bike Advocacy; she discussed growing bike share
programs; Capital Bike Share; and learning from existing
programs March 10, 2014
15
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:38 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of Red Betts to Monday, March 24,
2014 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY,
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE March 18, 2014
CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY 4:00 p.m.
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells called the meeting of the City Council,
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency,
Housing Authority and Parking Authority to order at 4:01 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor*
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
*Mayor Cooper arrived at 4:43 p.m.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
Councilmember O’Leary led the Pledge of Allegiance.
o0o
March 18, 2014
2
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/
SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Study Session – Presentation of
Current and Proposed Work Plans for City Departments
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director, provided
highlights for 2013-2014 and a summary of the 2014-2015
Public Works Department Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
parking; renegotiation of the street sweeping contract;
adding an art element to the bicycle racks; funding sources;
the Active Transportation Program; relocation of the
Southern California Edison transition poles; assistance of
the City Attorney’s Office; the GIS map book; assistance
from the IT Department; funding sources; updating the
Municipal Code for Right-of-Way Management; the Urban Forest
Management Plan; public input; recommendations; funding; the
need to start the process; cost effective action; the work
plan; milestones and goals; storm water funding; use of a
consultant; actions of other cities and available
information; cost per household; water conservation and
enforcement; voluntary compliance; complaints; code
enforcement; staffing; typographical errors; completion
dates and prioritization; making the schedule for
resurfacing and tree trimming available to the public; the
pavement management program; changing conditions; street
sweeping hours; electric charging stations; the San Diego
program; public/private partnerships; grants and upfront
costs.
* Mayor Cooper joined the meeting at 4:43 p.m.
Discussion continued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding a suggestion to create a City Council Parking
Subcommittee; the staff Traffic Committee; whether Public
Works has a wish list of items to pursue if money became
available; infrastructure funding; storm water funding;
assessment districts; addressing deferred maintenance;
consolidation of sewer pump stations; the Enhanced Watershed
Management Plan; the Culver City Municipal Code Subdivisions
Ordinance; the Taggers Program; the Annual Creek Clean Up;
Storm Water Public Outreach and Facilities Inspection; mat
cleaning at restaurants; accountability; tying approval of March 18, 2014
3
restaurants to proper cleaning procedures; education;
involving schools and students in the water conservation
process; working with the Sustainability Subcommittee; the
Star Eco Station Children’s Earth Festival; appreciation for
projects moving forward; updates to the Bicycle and
Pedestrian Master Plan; grant funding; revising the
Municipal Code to incorporate bicycle infrastructure in
development plans; parking districts; the State Subdivision
Map Act; hard copy maps vs. computer maps; owning rather
than renting street lights; completing the system vs.
upgrading the system; the Asset Management Program; handheld
devices for the tagger program; repeat offenders;
coordination with the Police Department; problem locations;
responsibility for maintaining different areas; penalties
for tagging; the Green Halo program; waste diversion; Cal
Recycle; household hazardous materials; education and
outreach; making it more convenient to get rid of waste;
separate containers for hazardous materials; concern with
mixing hazardous materials; the environmental education
program; targeted outreach; coordination with Earth month;
cable broadcasting of presentations; Coastal Clean Up Day;
the Environmental Education Program; the School Board
Sustainability Committee; AB341 business recycling; work
with the Chamber of Commerce; storm water mandates; the West
LA College project to collect storm water; the Green Street
Policy; permeable pavement; maintenance for Baldwin Avenue
rain parkways; eliminating the grass at City Hall; summer
concert seating; event waste recycling at Fiesta La Ballona;
the actions of Vancouver and partnering with cell companies
for EV charging stations; lighting under Ballona Creek
bridges; odors coming from the storm drains; improper mat
cleaning; illegally discharged sump pumps; the Farmers
Market; the installation of curtains on the storm drain at
Cardiff and a request for installation at additional sites;
circumventing the pooling; and issues on Jefferson
Boulevard.
Councilmember Weissman reported receipt of a letter from the
Department of Finance approving the Agency’s use or
disposition of all properties listed on the Long Range
Property Management Plan that will provide the City with the
ability to move forward with all projects
John Nachbar, City Manager, expressed appreciation to
Councilmember Weissman for his efforts.
March 18, 2014
4
Art Ida, Transportation Director, provided highlights for
2013-2014 and a summary of the 2014-2015 Public Works
Department Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the previously discussed downtown shuttle program; the
Washington/National project; encouraging bus ridership; the
existing system; developing a plan to address the loss of
the parking lot; monitoring parking lot use; providing
adequate public notice before lot closure; outreach to the
business community around the TOD; Culver City buses vs.
other buses; the incentive program; developing a team
concept; Culver City named the Number 1 Municipal Fleet in
the nation; targeting the younger generation; social media;
the importance of communication; making the buses easier to
use; maps; the website; overlap between transit and active
transportation; the transportation system as a whole;
actions of Metro to include cycling and walking; the first
and last mile; natural gas; Zero Emission Vehicles; unproven
technology; offering fueling to other agencies; logistics;
reducing costs for personnel issues; the Sony/Expo shuttle
for employees; public private partnerships; museums; pedi-
cabs; adequate demand; spatial issues; rider incentives;
free fare days; application for awards; bus schedules;
traffic delays; communicating delays to riders; employee
tardy issues and effects on riders; employee parking;
opportunities for a marketing plan; ridership levels; and
school field trips.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 6:50 p.m., the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Housing Authority, and Parking Authority adjourned
their meeting to Monday, March 24, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
March 18, 2014
5
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and Secretary of the
Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY,
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE March 24, 2014
CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY 4:00 p.m.
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council, Successor
Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency, Housing
Authority, and Parking Authority to order at 4:07 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
March 24, 2014
2
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/
SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Study Session – Presentation of
Current and Proposed Work Plans for City Departments
Dan Hernandez, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director, provided department highlights for 2013-2014 and a
summary of the proposed Parks, Recreation and Community
Services Department 2014-2015 Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
initiating a separate fee structure for field trips;
increased entry fees for amusement parks; financial
assistance; clarification that camp fees are revenue
neutral; the Teen Center sponsorship program; outreach;
sponsorship input before creating programs; staff time for
Fiesta La Ballona; effects to other programming; the Fiesta
La Ballona Committee; Party in the Park; periodic
assessments; the scrolling marquee at the Veterans Memorial
Building; stage lighting; improving the sound system; the
Community Cultural Plan; family swim vs. groups generating
revenue; drop-in swim; balance; elementary school
competitions; partnerships with the school district; youth
sports programs; subsidies; staffing; re-landscaping the
downtown business district; maintenance cutbacks; soccer in
Tellefson Park; dedicated facilities; specific use fields;
field conditions; park lighting; special events and parking
issues; additional parks in the City; underserved areas;
revamping the General Plan in the future; LA County tax
default sales; community gardens; open space; passive use;
adding expansion of parks and open space as part of the
long-term plan; long range wish list items; institution of
Wi-Fi at Vets in this Fiscal Year; fee changes; long-term
users; the resident discount policy; using Vets as an
emergency shelter; City readiness for emergencies;
recreation classes; Culver City Living; using banners to
announce registration dates; outreach; class attendance;
social media; interns; the fire arts class; playground
improvements; the skate park; scooters; different
demographics; the Senior Nutrition Program; kitchen use;
cooking classes; a stand-alone fee for the kitchen;
internships; unused Caltrans land; the landscape contractor;
issues with over-aggressive trimming; the increase in
filming permit fees; balancing park programming with March 24, 2014
3
filming; building a sports facility at Culver City Park; the
popularity of soccer; actual soccer demand; long-range park
planning; artificial turf; AYSO; school district
partnerships; maintenance; biofiltration pits; adult
softball; and the new scoreboard.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Booker Pearson, Upward Bound House, discussed the work of
the organization and asked that the money for the Rental
Assistance Program be reprogrammed to cover administrative
costs for Upward Bound.
Councilmember O’Leary received an update from Mr. Pearson on
a family that he had recommended to seek help from Upward
Bound and he indicated support for Mr. Pearson’s request.
Keith Jones discussed previous approval to extend the median
strip on West Washington Boulevard down to the area near
Costco; he asked that the project be included in the Area
Improvement Plan; and he discussed identifying the area as
Culver City, and safety issues.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 5:42 p.m., the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Housing Authority, and Parking Authority adjourned
their meeting to Thursday, March 27, 2014 at 3:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California March 24, 2014
4
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and Secretary of the
Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California and CHAIR of the Successor
Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY,
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
ADJOUNRED SPECIAL MEETING OF THE March 27, 2014
CITY COUNCIL, SUCCESSOR AGENCY 3:00 p.m.
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the Adjourned Special Meeting of the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Housing Authority, and Parking Authority to order at
3:06 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
March 27, 2014
2
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/
SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Study Session – Presentation of
Current and Proposed Work Plans for City Departments
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, provided
department highlights for 2013-2014 and a summary of the
proposed Community Development Department 2014-2015 Work
Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
priority projects; outsourcing the plan approval process;
the development permitting process; plan review; staffing
needs; the timeline; inspectors; the internal work plan;
work flow; pass through costs; the fee schedule;
accomplishing the workload; fluctuating development;
advancing funds for outsourced work; impacts of the multiple
projects on the City; communication with the City of Los
Angeles; the cluster of development at Washington/National;
a request to agendize a discussion of longer construction
hours vs. a diminished length of development; diminishing
traffic impacts and safety issues; the concrete pour;
seasonal hours; public input; noise issues; different types
of work; notification to adjacent residents; the Westfield
DDA; the OPA; the sign agreement; the City’s ability to
review the signs; onsite services; the Media Lounge; the
Sign Code; legal issues; restrictions on advertising; media
and entertainment connected to Culver City; prohibited
items; Housing Program implementation; the Rental Assistance
Program; casualties of redevelopment; State Senator Mitchell
and Congresswoman Bass; funding in the short term; building
affordable housing; eventual funding of programs; support
for maintaining current programs; the Regional Housing Needs
Assessment; matching available resources; building
affordable units; exploration of incentive zoning for
affordable units; amendments to the zoning ordinance; the
candidates forum; good faith efforts; signage in the City;
the zoning ordinance; seasonal signage; banners; new
businesses; the public right-of-way; City signage;
clarification that wares are not allowed on the public way;
sidewalk sales; special event permits; real estate signs;
code enforcement; record retention; acquiring Media Park;
the Culver City lease; enforcement issues; increasing the March 27, 2014
3
frequency of City Council meetings; Successor Agency
meetings; special meetings; discretionary decisions;
vacating alleys; maintenance; the Washington/Centinela
project; the Upward Bound request to reprogram Rental
Assistance monies; SB341; legal issues; limitations;
administrative costs; Culver Village; creating an economic
development corporation; the Arts District; the Public Art
Ordinance; the Cultural Affairs Commission; objectives of
the district; streetscaping; the Art Fund; communication; a
suggestion to create an online interactive map with upcoming
developments and a timeline; parklets; Community Development
Block Grants; the youth representative; follow up and
updates to the CDBG process; increased development; seeing
the big picture for the community in the next ten years; the
General Plan; building active transportation into all
development; the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan; the
Municipal Code; bicycle parking requirements for
developments; electric car charging; the Metro Pass Program;
affordable housing; City records; searchable pdfs vs. scans;
tags; summer internships; Pacific Theatres; the DDA; the
Town Plaza Expansion; the General Design Review Committee;
staff review; utilization of the bond proceeds; having the
capacity to process what needs to be done; project review;
design issues; discretionary projects; preserving the
housing program; Parcel B vs. Washington/National; the
entitlement portion; the dissolution of redevelopment; the
title transfer; plan preparation; prioritization; the
original entitlement and environmental review for Parcel B;
trip generation; maximizing parking beneath Town Plaza;
consistency; concern with undermining the other projects;
Culver Studios; agendizing a discussion of creating an
entrance on Culver Boulevard; public input; the Culver
Hotel; the Walker Parking Study; the Market Hall; potential
parking and traffic impacts that a larger tenant could
produce; due diligence; making the public feel welcome;
accessing the train station during development; Hayden Tract
parking; property values; Brotman and the Sons of Norway;
Upward Bound and helping homeless families; a signage
ordinance and properties abutting the freeway; incentive
zoning for affordable housing; parking structure management;
potential increases in funding to the Art Fund; creating
gateway art into Culver City on main thoroughfares;
Washington Boulevard; median improvements to the City
boundary; the Area Improvement Plan; Tilden Terrace leasing;
the project timelines; and the Jazz Bakery project.
March 27, 2014
4
Serena Wright, Human Resources Director, provided department
highlights for 2013-2014 and a summary of the proposed Human
Resources Department 2014-2015 Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
internships; the City Council/School Board Liaison
Committee; diversity; outreach to veterans; Ban the Box
legislation; Commission applications; emergency services;
the salary survey; and openness of the Employees Association
to a multi-year contract.
Michele Williams, Chief Information Officer, provided
department highlights for 2013-2014 and a summary of the
proposed Information Technology Department 2014-2015 Work
Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
website redesign; community input; graphic services;
communication; notification; legal requirements notices;
Client Resource Management; water restrictions and
reporting; the graffiti reporting app; designing
applications for iPhones and iPads; locations based
information; Go Requests; online permitting; data
conversion; City-wide Wi-Fi; a database system for parking
permits and enforcement; reaching out to departments to work
toward additional effectiveness; departments with separate
IT functions; and software and new technology.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, provided department highlights
for 2013-2014 and a summary of the proposed City Attorney’s
Office 2014-2015 Work Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
massage parlors; requests for additional information;
document retention and retrieval for litigation; hydraulic
fracking; campaign finance; creating a subcommittee;
creating timelines; priorities; litigation reports; City
Council Policies and Administrative Procedures; revising the
Landlord Tenant Mediation Board guidelines; the sign
ordinance; review of the City Charter; changes at Santa
Monica Airport; a resident request to form a committee;
expanding the purview of the LAX Advisory Committee; over
flights; monitoring of Santa Monica Airport; representation
at meetings; City Council direction; petitioning the City of
Santa Monica to protect the airspace; the Westside Council
of Governments; the use of consultants and specialists; and
transactional work vs. special issues. March 27, 2014
5
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, discussed
the 2014-2015 Work Plan for the City Clerk’s Office,
mentioned the dissolution of redevelopment; staffing; praise
for the work of Jeremy Green and Yohana Coronel; and public
notification.
John Nachbar, City Manager, also provided background on the
subject of Cultural Affairs programming and staffing and
requested the City Council provide input on the subject.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
election procedures; location of employees in the City
Clerk’s Office; conducting a space needs analysis at City
Hall; Cultural Affairs; forming an economic development
corporation; the Otis Study; arts and culture as economic
generators; ancillary industries; conducting an economic
analysis; the economic development component; City
notifications and passwords; the email voter pamphlet; the
County program; and passport services.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Karim Sahli discussed notification; the ice rink; the
possible changes at the Culver Studios; classifying issues;
ensuring that everyone is aware about certain items;
community involvement; conspiracy theories; Fox Hills Mall
signage; social media; creating a Community Manager; Reddit;
and monitoring what is going on online.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and
Councilmembers regarding voting machines; appreciation for
staff efforts to be more transparent and communicative;
legal issues; and conjecture and rumor.
Staff and Councilmembers wished Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells a
Happy Birthday.
o0o
Adjournment
March 27, 2014
6
There being no further business, at 6:54 p.m., the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Housing Authority, and Parking Authority adjourned
their meeting to Monday, April 21, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and Secretary of the
Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California
and CHAIR of the Successor Agency,
Housing Authority, and
Parking Authority 1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE April 9, 2014
CITY COUNCIL 3:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
3:00 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Gerald Sallus congratulated the two winners in the recent
election, and he announced a General Membership meeting of the
Culver City Historical Society on April 16, 2014.
o0o
Closed Session
At 3:02 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following item:
CS-1 Public Employee Appointment
Title: Chief of Police (Interim)
Pursuant to Government Code Section
o0o April 9, 2014
2
Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 3:04 p.m.
with all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper reported that the City Council had decided to
offer the position of Interim Police Chief to Scott Bixby, who
accepted.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
SCOTT BIXBY AS INTERIM POLICE CHIEF.
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
None.
o0o
Community Announcements by City Councilmembers/Information
Items from Staff
None.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
None.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
April 9, 2014
3
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson thanked Police Chief Don Pedersen for his
service; suggested that parking enforcement be made separate
from the Police Department; expressed concern with special
favors;
wanted to see more emphasis placed on parking enforcement; and
he discussed parking permits.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding assertions
of dishonesty, and the suggestion that parking enforcement is
not taken seriously.
o0o
Items from Councilmembers
Items from Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells
• Thanked Chief Pedersen for his service and
accomplishments
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Thanked Chief Pedersen for his service and received
clarification that a formal presentation would be made at
a later date
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 3:13 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting to Monday, April 21, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
April 9, 2014
4
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE April 21, 2014
CITY COUNCIL 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
5:33 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember*
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
*Councilmember O’Leary arrived at 5:35 p.m.
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:34 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
CS-2 Public Employee Appointment
Title: Chief of Police
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957
CS-3 Public Employee Evaluation
Title: Interim Chief of Police
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957
CS-4 Public Employee Appointment
Title: Fire Chief
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957
o0o April 21, 2014
2
Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:12 p.m.
with all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Don Pedersen.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from closed
session.
o0o
Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation of a Commendation to Donald Pedersen on the
Occasion of His Retirement as Chief of Police
Councilmembers thanked Mr. Pedersen for his service and
congratulated him on his new position.
Donald Pedersen thanked the City for the honor of serving as
Police Chief; commended staff for their dedication; and
reported that crime in the City was down 30%.
Mayor Cooper presented the Commendation.
o0o
Item P-2
Presentation of Commendation to Max Paetzold for his Years of
Service to the City
Councilmember Weissman presented the Commendation.
Max Paetzold thanked the City for the Commendation.
April 21, 2014
3
o0o
Item P-3
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating the Month of May as
Historic Preservation Month
Councilmember Clarke presented the Proclamation.
Michelle Bernardin, Historical Society President and Cultural
Affairs Commissioner, thanked everyone for their support and
the City for the Proclamation.
o0o
Item P-4
Presentation of a Proclamation in Honor of April as DMV/Donate
Life California Month
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells presented the Proclamation.
Dr. Mason Sommers, One Legacy, reported that Culver City would
be getting a Donate Life Ambassador and the Culver City
location of the State Department of Motor Vehicles would be
added to their catalog of DMVs, and he introduced Rachel
Greenberg and Donna Hoch whose family members donated organs
and tissue to save lives.
Mayor Cooper thanked Donate Life representatives for coming to
the meeting.
o0o
Community Announcements by City Councilmembers/Information
Items from Staff
Interim Police Chief Scott Bixby introduced new Culver City
Police Officers Sam Hawkins and Nikki Cavazos.
Councilmember Clarke announced a tree planting in front of
Tito’s Tacos in honor of Arbor Day on April 22, and he
reported that Culver City had been awarded a plaque on
Children’s Earth Day at the Star Eco Station on April 6.
April 21, 2014
4
Councilmember O’Leary distributed Expo project updates to the
City Council noting that the signage issue had not been
resolved yet.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells invited everyone to attend the Honorary
Service Awards for Volunteers in Culver City Schools on April
27, and the meeting at the Kenneth Hahn Park Community Room on
April 24 for the Five Year Review of the Community Standards
District regulating the Inglewood Oil Field.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF UGO PASCARELLA.
Mayor Cooper announced a performance of the Culver City
Symphony Orchestra on April 26 at Veterans Auditorium, and the
L.A. Modernism Show on April 26-27.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Michelle Isenberg, Public Art Advisor, reported writing the
Art in Public Places Ordinance in 1988, and she requested the
establishment of a City Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy
Department funded by the General Fund with two full-time staff
to begin operating in fiscal year 2014-2015 allocating funds
from the Cultural Trust Fund to conduct a study establishing a
baseline knowledge of the arts and culture in Culver City
pointing to areas of economic opportunity.
Dr. Janet Hoult announced an Ice Cream Social by the Culver
City Women’s Club on April 26 at the Culver Palms Methodist
Church.
Grace Elliott announced the completion of the Fourth Walk with
a Doc; provided background on the event; and encouraged
everyone to participate.
Jeffrey Penso, M.D. thanked Grace Elliot for her work on Walk
with a Doc; indicated that Walk with a Doc is a national event
sponsored by the California Medical Association Foundation and April 21, 2014
5
the L.A. County Medical Foundation; and he invited everyone to
attend on the third Saturday at each month at Veterans Park.
Matthew Hetz, Culver City Symphony Orchestra, invited everyone
to their next concert on April 26 at Veterans Auditorium.
Sami Shanman, Fifth Grade Safety Patrol at El Marino Language
School, invited everyone to attend Fiesta Bicicleta, a bike
safety event on May 10 to celebrate National Bike to School
month.
Councilmember O’Leary received clarification from the speaker
regarding the Fifth Grade Safety Patrol.
Michael Cousineau suggested an ordinance restricting the use
and sale of e-cigarettes in Culver City.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding consensus
to consider e-cigarettes on the same agenda as the smoking in
multi-family dwellings item.
Seth Horowitz, General Manager of the Culver Hotel, read and
distributed a letter he wrote to the City Council and City
Manager regarding a rise in the visibility of the City;
additional development coming in the City; the Culver Hotel;
the need for a vibrant and active arts and cultural community;
and he requested support for establishing a City Arts,
Culture, and Creative Economic Department.
Danielle Brazell, Arts for L.A., discussed her organization;
the City’s strategic use of resources through redevelopment;
reimaging reinvesting in arts and culture in the City; the
return on investment; leadership; and she offered herself as a
resource.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manger/City Clerk, reported the
receipt of additional correspondence before 4:00 p.m. and
additional correspondence placed on the dais by staff.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
April 21, 2014
6
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-2
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of Respective City Council and Successor Agency Board
Resolutions Approving (1) the Transfer and Acceptance of Real
Property (Assessor’s Parcel No. 4206-029-935) (at Town Plaza)
from the Successor Agency to the City of Culver City for
Governmental Use Pursuant to the Long Range Property Management
Plan; (2) the Grant Deed; and (3) Related Actions
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
the Resolution had been updated and he requested that the motion
include the updated Resolution.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION APPROVING (1) THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY
(ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO. 4206-029-935) FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO THE CITY OF CULVER
CITY FOR GOVERNMENTAL USE PURSUANT TO THE LONG RANGE PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT PLAN APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
ON MARCH 18, 2014; (2) THE GRANT DEED TO EFFECTUATE THE
DISPOSITION OF SAID PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED ACTIONS.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
ITEMS C-2, C-3, C-4, C-6 AND C-7.
Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of an Amendment to an Existing Professional Services
Agreement with Kosmont & Associates, Inc. to Provide
Real Estate, Economic Development, and Financial Analysis
Assistance Related to Dissolution of the Former Culver City
Redevelopment Agency
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: April 21, 2014
7
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO AN EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH KOSMONT & ASSOCIATES, INC. INCREASING THE NOT-TO-
EXCEED AMOUNT BY $15,050 (FROM $29,950 TO $45,000) FOR
ASSISTANCE RELATED TO DISSOLUTION OF THE FORMER CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY (FORMER CCRA); AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-3
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with Power Source
Systems, Inc. for the Repair of the Palm Tree Surround Lighting
Located along Washington Boulevard between National Boulevard
and Fairfax Avenue in an Amount Not-To-Exceed $32,000.00
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read a comment submitted by:
Dean Gebroe
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH POWER SOURCE
SYSTEMS, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $32,000.00 FOR THE REPAIR OF THE
WASHINGTON BOULEVARD PALM TREE SURROUND LIGHTING; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-4
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by All American Asphalt; (2)
Authorization to File a Notice of Completion; and (3)
Authorization to Release the Retention Payment after the
Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period for the 2013 Pavement
Overlay Project, PZ-863, PZ-903 April 21, 2014
8
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, ALL AMERICAN
ASPHALT, FOR THE 2013 PAVEMENT OVERLAY PROJECT, PZ-863, PZ-903;
AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO EXECUTE
THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
RECORDER’S OFFICE FOR RECORDATION; AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF RETENTION FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF
$60,868 TO ALL AMERICAN ASPHALT UPON EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY-
FIVE DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-6
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of Resolutions Approving Encroachment Agreements with
Time Warner Cable for Use of the Public Rights-of-Way on
Buckingham Parkway and Jefferson Boulevard
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT THE RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE TWO ENCROACHMENT
AGREEMENTS WITH TIME WARNER CABLE; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-7
Approval of a Purchase Order with UTC F & S for MobileView
Camera Surveillance Hardware, Software, and Accessories for Six
New Buses in an Amount Not-To-Exceed $56,310
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER WITH UTC F&S FOR A MOBILEVIEW
SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM THAT INCLUDES HARDWARE, SOFTWARE, AND April 21, 2014
9
ACCESSORIES FOR SIX NEW BUSES IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$56,310, AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO EXECUTE THE PURCHASE
ORDER ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item JC-1
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of Respective City Council and Successor Agency Board
Resolutions Approving (1) the Transfer and Acceptance of Certain
Real Properties from the Successor Agency to the City of Culver
City for Use to Fulfill Contractual Enforceable Obligations
Pursuant to the State Department of Finance Approved Long Range
Property Management Plan; (2) the Related Grant Deeds; and (3)
Other Related Actions
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, provided a
summary of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
Parcel B; the public process; the disposition of 9300 Culver
Boulevard; effectuating the long-standing use of the property
for parking purposes; and required use.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING (1) THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY (3844-3848 & 3864 WATSEKA AVENUE; ASSESSOR’S
PARCEL NOS. 4207-001-900, 4207-001-901, 4207-001-902, 4207-001-
903, AND 4207-001-904) FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER
CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO THE CITY OF CULVER CITY FOR USE TO
FULFILL CONTRACTUAL ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE LONG
RANGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLAN APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE ON MARCH 18, 2014: (2) THE GRANT DEED TO
EFFECTUATE THE DISPOSITION OF SAID PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED
ACTIONS.
2) ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING (1) THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY (3757 ROBERTSON BOULEVARD; ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NOS.
4206-033-932, 4206-033-934, AND 4206-033-935) FROM THE SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO THE CITY OF
CULVER CITY FOR USE TO FULFILL CONTRACTUAL ENFORCEABLE
OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE LONG RANGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLAN April 21, 2014
10
APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE ON MARCH 18,
2014; (2) THE GRANT DEED TO EFFECTUATE THE DISPOSITION OF SAID
PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED ACTIONS.
3) ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE (1) ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY (3825 CANFIELD AVENUE; ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO. 4206-
030-901) FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO THE CITY OF CULVER CITY FOR USE TO
FULFILL CONTRACTUAL ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE LONG
RANGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLAN APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE ON MARCH 18, 2014; (2) THE GRANT DEED TO
EFFECTUATE THE DISPOSITION OF SAID PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED
ACTIONS.
4) ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE (1) ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY (9099 WASHINGTON BOULEVARD; ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO.
4206-029-932) FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO THE CITY OF CULVER CITY FOR USE TO
FULFILL CONTRACTUAL ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE LONG
RANGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PLAN APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE ON MARCH 18, 2014; (2) THE GRANT DEED TO
EFFECTUATE THE DISPOSITION OF SAID PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED
ACTIONS.
5) ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING (1) THE ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY (9415- 9425 VENICE BOULEVARD; ASSESSOR’S PARCEL
NOS. 4313-019-900, 4313-019-901, 4313-019-902, AND 4313-019-903)
FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY TO THE CITY OF CULVER CITY FOR USE TO FULFILL CONTRACTUAL
ENFORCEABLE OBLIGATIONS PURSUANT TO THE LONG RANGE PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT PLAN APPROVED BY THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE
ON MARCH 18, 2014; (2) THE GRANT DEED TO EFFECTUATE THE
DISPOSITION OF SAID PROPERTY; AND (3) RELATED ACTIONS.
o0o
Item C-1
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution (a) Approving Culver City’s
Participation in the Los Angeles Urban County Community
Development Block Grant Fund Program for Fiscal Years 2014/2015
Through 2017/2018 and (b) the Related Cooperation Agreement
Councilmember Clarke received clarification on a County
condition regarding Civil Rights demonstrations; the Cooperation
Agreement; and funding conditions. April 21, 2014
11
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells received clarification regarding the
Senior Center loan; affordable housing funding crises;
continuing the Rental Assistance Program and homeless programs;
and census tracts.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT THE PROPOSED RESOLUTION APPROVING (A) CULVER CITY’S
PARTICIPATION IN THE LOS ANGELES URBAN COUNTY COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM FOR FISCAL YEARS 2014-
2015 THROUGH 2017-2018 AND (B) THE RELATED COOPERATION
AGREEMENT; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS.
o0o
Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Authorize Solicitation of Proposals for (1) Final Design of the
New Bankfield Sewer Pump Station Located at 5722 Bankfield
Avenue; (2) Final Design of Diversion Sewer Pipes to Abandon the
Bristol, Fox Hills, Mesmer, and Overland Sewer Pump Stations;
and (3) a Feasibility Study Regarding the Conversion of the
Mesmer Sewer Pump Station to Storm Water Quality Purposes
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding back-up
pumps; combining into one sewer pump station; redundant force
mains; and secondary and back-up systems.
Councilmember O’Leary received clarification regarding the date
of construction for one of the pump stations; upgrade plans;
permits required for the new station; easements; the diversion
project; private property owners; plans for different routes;
changing the Memser Station; creating a filtration system for
storm water; run off issues; and Ballona Creek.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: AUTHORIZE
THE SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR (A) FINAL DESIGN OF THE NEW
BANKFIELD SEWER PUMP STATION LOCATED AT 5722 BANKFIELD AVENUE;
(B) FINAL DESIGN OF DIVERSION SEWER PIPES TO ABANDON THE
BRISTOL, FOX HILLS, MESMER, AND OVERLAND SEWER PUMP STATIONS; April 21, 2014
12
AND (C) A FEASIBILITY STUDY REGARDING THE CONVERSION OF THE
MESMER SEWER PUMP STATION TO STORM WATER QUALITY PURPOSES.
o0o
Item C-8
(Out of Sequence)
Award of a Construction Contract to Malibu Pacific
Tennis Courts, Inc., as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible
Bidder in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $50,000 ($39,800 Base Bid Plus
$10,200 in Change Order Authority) for the Citywide Bicycle
Parking Project, PF-001
Councilmember Clarke wanted to see more artistic elements
included, and he received clarification regarding the amount of
bicycle parking included.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
locations for bicycle parking; money allocated; requests for
rack placement; parental requests for bicycle parking at Linwood
E. Howe Elementary School; and the ability of residents to make
requests for bicycle racks.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO MALIBU PACIFIC TENNIS COURTS
INC. AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, FOR THE
CITYWIDE BIKE RACK PARKING PROJECT, PF-001 IN THE AMOUNT OF
$50,000 ($39,800 BASE BID PLUS $10,200 IN CHANGE ORDER
AUTHORITY); AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
CHANGE ORDERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $10,200, IF NECESSARY;
AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
4) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
April 21, 2014
13
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
Introduction of an Ordinance 1) Amending the Culver City
Zoning Map, as referenced in Title 17, Zoning, of the Culver
City Municipal Code, Section 17.200.015, to Rezone the
Project Site from Commercial Neighborhood (CN) to Open Space
(OS) (ZCMA P-2014018); and 2) Approving a Comprehensive Plan
(CP P-2013176) to Allow the Conversion of the Armory Building
into the Wende Museum, and to Allow the Continued Use of the
Am Vets Post 2 Facility Located at 10808 Culver Boulevard
and 10858 Culver Boulevard, Respectively
Joshua Williams, Associate Planner, provided a summary of the
material of record.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Justin Jampol, Ph.D., Wende Museum, thanked the City for their
support and provided a presentation on the museum.
Cary Anderson expressed support for the project, discussed the
parking study for the project; employee parking spaces; and he
asked that the museum have designated parking spaces.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
previous consideration of the item by the Planning Commission
and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission;
parking concerns; events; egress on to Coombs and concern with
traffic in the neighborhood; evaluating operations after 12-
months; the Am Vets use; special events at the museum;
communication; special permits; the Special Event Ordinance; April 21, 2014
14
who gets priority; adding a condition that a common calendar
be kept and coordinated between various uses; the Master
Calendar concept; the Scout Hut; living next to a multi-use
park; the parking study; the limited size and hours of
operation; average daily number of visitors; responsibility
for the calendar; current location and usage; looking at
limited egress for special events after six-months; display of
the Berlin Wall pieces; landscaping; seismic retrofitting; the
signage plan; collaborating with Vets; and fiscal impact.
Keith Jeffreys, Am Vets Post 2 and United States Veterans
Artists Alliance, thanked staff for their work and discussed
working with the Wende Museum.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding communication; the surrounding community;
transportation; outreach; and museum users.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
INTRODUCE A PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CULVER CITY ZONING
MAP, AS REFERENCED IN TITLE 17, ZONING, OF THE CULVER CITY
MUNICIPAL CODE, SECTION 17.200.015, TO REZONE THE PROJECT SITE
FROM COMMERCIAL NEIGHBORHOOD TO OPEN SPACE (ZONING CODE MAP
AMENDMENT, ZCMA-P2014018) AND APPROVING THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
FOR THE WENDE MUSEUM AND AM VETS POST 2 (CP P-2013176) WITH AN
ADDED CONDITION OF APPROVAL. (NOTE: Such Ordinance included
the addition of a condition that a common “Master Calendar” be
kept and coordinated by the City for the various events held
at the Museum.)
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, indicated that
with the permission of the City Council, the second reading of
the item would be placed on the April 28, 2014 agenda.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of City Sponsorship for the 48
th
Annual 4th of
July Fireworks Show Charitable Fundraising Event Produced by
the Exchange Club of Culver City, a Non-Profit Organization
Proposed to Be Held on the Campus of West Los Angeles College
Mayor Cooper invited public participation. April 21, 2014
15
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
John Cohn, Exchange Club, discussed the cancellation of the
event last year; logistics; the offer from West LA College to
accommodate the event; increased costs; policing; interagency
cooperation; new and unusual challenges; and he requested
support from the City for the event.
Michelle Ford discussed the 4
th
of July fireworks show and
requested support for the event.
Discussion ensued between staff, Councilmembers and Mr. Cohn
regarding financial responsibility for additional services;
involvement of the County; City resources; clarification that
responsibility for certain costs had not been determined;
money raised vs. expenses; and requesting a budget at the time
that a contribution is decided upon.
Earl Eskridge reported that after the show, costs, expenses
and profit made would be provided to the City; he indicated
that all money made would be given back to the community; he
clarified that the Exchange Club is a non-profit organization;
stated that the event was created almost 50 years ago;
discussed use of money contributed by the City; and he urged
the City Council to keep the event going.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding promoting patriotism; use of the money contributed
by the City; in-kind services; involvement of the County
Sheriff’s office; and appreciation to West LA College for
offering to host the event.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINE TO PROVIDE $24,000 IN DIRECT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
AND AN UNSPECIFIED AMOUNT OF IN-KIND STAFF SUPPORT TO THE
EXCHANGE CLUB OF CULVER CITY CHARITABLE FOUNDATION, INC. FOR
ITS 4TH OF JULY EVENT ON FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2014 AT WLAC; AND,
2. (IF AT LEAST $1,000 IN SUPPORT IS PROVIDED) DESIGNATE THE
4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS SHOW AS A CITY-SPONSORED EVENT.
o0o
April 21, 2014
16
Item A-2
Consideration of City Sponsorship for the First Annual Culver
City Arts District Summer Solstice Event in Culver City
Elaine Warner, Senior Management Analyst, provided a summary
of the material of record.
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
There were no cards submitted and no speakers came forward.
Councilmember Clarke received clarification that if the event
did well it could become an annual event.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A) SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT FEE WAIVERS IN AN AMOUNT
NOT-TO-EXCEED $750 AND B) $1,340 OF IN-KIND STAFF TIME FOR
ASSISTANCE IN PRODUCING THE FIRST ANNUAL CULVER CITY ARTS
DISTRICT SUMMER SOLSTICE EVENT, AND;
2. DESIGNATE THE CULVER CITY ARTS DISTRICT SUMMER SOLSTICE AS
A CITY-SPONSORED EVENT.
o0o
Item A-3
(1) Consideration of the City Council’s Position on Measure
CC, the Culver City Unified School District’s Proposed Bond
Issuance, Which Appears on the June 3, 2014 Ballot and (2)
Adoption of a Resolution Related Thereto
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read a comment
submitted by:
Dr. Janet Hoult
Cary Anderson discussed a mailer in support of Measure CC
containing images of the Natatorium.
Stephen Murray questioned the appropriateness of a City
endorsement of the measure; the amount of most bonds; size of April 21, 2014
17
the school district; property values vs. wage increases;
concern with costs; increases to costs to fill a budget;
management of the schools; and he asked that the City Council
defer endorsement of the measure.
Kathy Paspalis, Member of the CCUSD Board of Education and Co-
Chair of the Bond Committee, discussed the quality of schools
in the City, and she thanked the City Council for their
support of the measure.
Sue Robins, Member of the CCUSD Board of Education, requested
support for the school bond.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
public outreach; allowing the people of Culver City to decide;
and support for the measure.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION TO SUPPORT MEASURE CC.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
a certified copy would be sent to the Superintendent’s Office.
o0o
Item A-4
Receive and File the Culver City Fire Department’s 5-Year
Community-Driven Strategic Plan
David White, Assistant Fire Chief, presented the Fire
Department’s Community Driven Five Year Strategic Plan.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
increased transport outside of Culver City; billing and
collection; the former Brotman Medical Center; concurrent
runs; use of outside ambulance companies; non-licensed
ambulance companies; the Department of Health Services; inter-
facility transfers; convalescent homes; the final version of
the report; the importance of excellent service to residents;
accredited status; the increase in use; average length of time
for an ambulance run; overcrowded hospitals; wall time; and
community comments.
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
April 21, 2014
18
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson discussed Southern California Hospital; general
transport; the strategic planning committee; and he asked that
getting a third ambulance be made a priority.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE CULVER CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT’S 2014 FIVE-YEAR
STRATEGIC PLAN.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
Items from Councilmembers
Items from Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells
• Submitted a case study on The Relationship Between
Broadband and Economic Development to the City Manager
that she had received at the National League of Cities
Conference
• Provided information from a workshop called Los Angeles
Alliance for Community Health and Aging at the California
Endowment to be forwarded to Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Director Dan Hernandez
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Reported that he would be attending the League of
California Cities Legislative Lobby Day on April 23 in
Sacramento and indicated willingness to speak about any
issues the City was interested in having him talk about
with the State Senator or Assemblyman
• Commended the Mayor on a successful year
o0o April 21, 2014
19
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:44 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of Ugo Pascarella to Monday,
April 28, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF April 28, 2014
THE CITY COUNCIL 6:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order
at 6:00 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 6:00 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session
to discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation - 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4)
CS-2 Conference Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from
closed session.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 7:07 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting to Monday, April 28, 2014 at
7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California 1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD,
HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD,
FINANCING AUTHORITY BOARD, AND
PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD
MEETING OF THE (REGULAR) April 28, 2014
CITY COUNCIL, (REGULAR) SUCCESSOR AGENCY 7:00 p.m.
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, (REGULAR) CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY,
(SPECIAL) FINANCING AUTHORITY AND
(SPECIAL) PARKING AUTHORITY
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor/Chair Cooper called the meeting of the City Council,
Financing Authority, Housing Authority, Parking Authority, and
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency to
order at 7:06 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor/Chair
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor and Vice Chair
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember/Board Member
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember/Board Member
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember/Board Member
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City
Manager/Executive Director, and the Pledge of Allegiance was
led by Bill Wynn.
o0o April 28, 2014
2
Community Announcements by City Councilmembers/Information
Items from Staff
Mayor Cooper announced the 11
th
Annual Car show on May 10th.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Rebecca Rona Tuttle congratulated Meghan Sahli-Wells on her
upcoming appointment as Mayor; she discussed fracking; read
her letter to the editor of the Los Angeles Times; and she
invited everyone to attend a meeting of the Sierra Club
Fracking Committee on May 1 at the Culver City Teen Center.
Dr. Janet Hoult read a poem distributed to Councilmembers on
the new Council year.
Simon Hannah, The Actors Gang, welcomed the new Mayor; urged
the City Council to support the arts in the upcoming fiscal
year; expressed support for the proposal submitted by the
Cultural Affairs Commission; discussed a letter submitted by
the Actors Gang to the City Council; encouraged the City
Council to establish a City Arts, Culture and Creative
Economy Department employing two full time staff members
with funds allocated from the Cultural Trust Fund to study
options and opportunities in the Arts and Culture sector in
the City; discussed developments in the last decade, and
hoped that further strategic approaches to the arts could
benefit the local economy, residents, and establish a future
for the City as a cultural destination.
Justin Jampol, Ph.D., Wende Museum, expressed support for
Cultural Affairs in the City and thanked the City for their
support.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
April 28, 2014
3
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells reported that Culver City had
submitted comments for the five year review of the Community
Standards District that regulates the Inglewood Oil Field
noting that they would be available on the City website
starting April 29th, and she thanked staff for their hard
work on the document.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, expressed appreciation to the
Oil Drilling Subcommittee for their help and to
participating neighborhood organizations and community
members.
o0o
Consent Calendar
Item C-1
Adoption of an Ordinance 1) Amending the Culver City Zoning
Map, as Referenced in Title 17, Zoning, of the Culver City
Municipal Code, Section 17.200.015, to Rezone the Project
Site from Commercial Neighborhood (CN) to Open Space (OS)
(ZCMA P-2014018); and 2) Approving a Comprehensive Plan (CP
P-2013176) to Allow the Conversion of the Armory Building
into the Wende Museum, and to Allow the Continued Use of the
Am Vets Post 2 Facility Located at 10808 Culver Boulevard
and 10858 Culver Boulevard, Respectively
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPT AN ORDINANCE:
1) AMENDING THE CULVER CITY ZONING MAP, AS REFERENCED IN
TITLE 17, ZONING, OF THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, SECTION
17.200.015, TO REZONE THE PROJECT SITE FROM COMMERCIAL
NEIGHBORHOOD (CN) TO OPEN SPACE (OS) (ZCMA P-2014018); AND
2) APPROVING A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (CP P-2013176) TO ALLOW
THE CONVERSION OF THE ARMORY BUILDING INTO THE WENDE MUSEUM,
AND TO ALLOW THE CONTINUED USE OF THE AM VETS POST 2
FACILITY LOCATED AT 10808 CULVER BOULEVARD AND 10858 CULVER
BOULEVARD, RESPECTIVELY.
April 28, 2014
4
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL,
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR MARCH 15, 2014 – APRIL 18, 2014.
o0o
Action Item
Item A-1
Adoption of a Resolution of the City Council of the City of
Culver City, California, Reciting the Fact of the General
Municipal Election Held on April 8, 2014 and Stating the
Results of Such Election in Accordance with the City Charter
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, discussed
the election; the process; turnout; and he thanked the
Canvassing Board.
Councilmember O’Leary expressed appreciation for democracy
at work.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
SAHLI-WELLS, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CULVER
CITY, CALIFORNIA, RECITING THE FACT OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL
ELECTION HELD ON APRIL 8, 2014 AND STATING THE RESULTS OF
SUCH ELECTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CITY CHARTER.
o0o
April 28, 2014
5
Joint Action Items
Item JC-1
CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/SUCCESSOR
AGENCY/FINANCING AUTHORITY JOINT AGENDA ITEM:
(1) Administration of the Oath of Office to the Council
Members-Elect; (2) Election of Mayor and Vice Mayor; and (3)
Confirmation by the Housing Authority/Parking Authority/
Successor Agency/Financing Authority that the Mayor and Vice
Mayor of the City Shall Serve as Chair and Vice Chair of
these Bodies, Respectively
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, discussed
procedures and administered the oath of office to re-elected
Councilmembers Jeff Cooper and Jim B. Clarke.
Mayor Cooper opened the nominations for Mayor.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPOINT MEGHAN SAHLI-WELLS TO SERVE AS MAYOR OF CULVER CITY
FOR 2014-2015.
Mayor Sahli-Wells took the chair. Mayor Sahli-Wells opened
the nominations for Vice Mayor.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPOINT MICHEÁL O’LEARY TO SERVE AS VICE MAYOR OF CULVER
CITY FOR 2014-2015.
The Mayor and Vice Mayor received their pins.
Mayor Sahli- Wells congratulated Councilmembers Cooper and
Clarke on their re-election; discussed the functions of the
Mayor; thanked former Mayor Cooper for his service in the past
year; she challenged residents to make Culver City the best
City in which to raise children in the United States; thanked
staff for their hard work; discussed the environment; putting
people before machines; cyclists in the City; the importance of
supporting the arts; finding funding to create affordable
housing; coming development in the City; clear communication; April 28, 2014
6
and she thanked her High School Government teacher and her
family.
Councilmember Cooper expressed appreciation to everyone for
their support over the past year; thanked staff and his fellow
Councilmembers for their hard work; and he wished the new Mayor
luck in the next year.
Councilmember Clarke thanked everyone for their support of his
re-election; wished Mayor Sahli-Wells luck in the new year;
thanked staff for their hard work; expressed concern with low
voter turnout; suggested an all-mail ballot as a way of
increasing voter participation; discussed walking the
precincts; resident concerns; suggested creating an ad hoc City
Council committee to tackle parking and traffic issues; and he
discussed the upcoming Centennial.
Councilmember Weissman congratulated his fellow Councilmembers
on their re-election and appointments; expressed appreciation
for the way City Council business is conducted; thanked former
Mayor Cooper; and wished Mayor Sahli-Wells the best for the
next year.
Vice Mayor O’Leary echoed comments made by previous speakers
and discussed the upcoming increase in development.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE MAYOR AND VICE
MAYOR SERVE AS CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR OF THE FINANCING
AUTHORITY, HOUSING AUTHORITY, PARKING AUTHORITY, AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF CULVER CITY.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
None.
o0o
Adjournment
April 28, 2014
7
There being no further business, at 8:02 p.m., the City
Council, Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency, Financing Authority, Housing Authority, and Parking
Authority adjourned their meeting to Monday, May 12, 2014 at
7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council and Secretary of the
Successor Agency, Financing Authority, Housing Authority,
and Parking Authority
Culver City, California
MEGHAN SAHLI-WELLS
MAYOR of Culver City, California and Chair of the Successor
Agency, Financing Authority, Housing Authority, and Parking
Authority
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE March 24, 2014
CITY COUNCIL 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
5:43 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:43 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – 2 Matters
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 8511 Warner Drive
Agency Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager/Executive
Director; Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director/
Assistant Executive Director; Todd Tipton, Economic Development
Manager; Murray Kane, City Special Counsel/Successor Agency
Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: Samitaur Constructs
Under Negotiation: Price, terms of payment or both, including
use restrictions, development obligations and other monetary
related considerations
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
March 24, 2014
2
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: City of Culver City, et al. v. Michael Cohen, et al.
Case No. 34-2013-80001719
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
o0o
Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:16 p.m.
with all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Tom Salter.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from closed
session.
o0o
Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation of a Commendation to Miranda Nicole Myers on
Earning the Girl Scout Gold Award, the Highest Achievement in
Girl Scouting
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells presented the Commendation.
o0o
Presentation of Certificates of Recognition to the Culver City
High School Girls Basketball Team in Honor of their
Accomplishments at the California Interscholastic Federation
(CIF) Playoffs
Mayor Cooper discussed the accomplishments of the Culver City
High School Girls Basketball Team.
March 24, 2014
3
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells presented the Certificates of
Recognition.
o0o
Community Announcements by City Councilmembers/Information
Items from Staff
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells distributed brochures regarding a
proposed Metro fare increase noting that public input was
requested with a meeting on March 29; announced a public
meeting on Express Lanes at Union Station on March 31;
distributed letters to Councilmembers to sign from the Center
for Biological Diversity in opposition to fracking; reported
attending an SB535 workshop on environmental justice; and she
reminded everyone to vote on April 8, 2014.
Councilmember O’Leary reported a workshop meeting of the
Watershed Advisory Council to discuss the Bay Restoration
Plan; and he invited everyone to attend meetings of the Santa
Monica Bay Restoration Commission on the third Wednesday of
the month at the Marina Del Rey Yacht Club.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF VIRGINIA KUECHLE,
MOTHER OF LONG TIME PLANNING COMMISSIONER JOHN KUECHLE.
MOVED BY MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND
UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS ADJOURNED THAT
IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF GARY SILMAN.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Rebecca Rona-Tuttle thanked the City Council for the Parkway
Ordinance workshop and discussed possible changes.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells indicated that an online survey was
available; discussed public outreach; and more sustainable
parkways. March 24, 2014
4
Dr. Jay Shery discussed the history and goals of the Exchange
Club; the annual 4
th
of July fireworks show; and an alternate
location for this year.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
agendizing a discussion of the event and location.
Donna Le Blanc, Rancho Higuera Neighborhood Association,
discussed traffic issues in the neighborhood and vagrants in
the area.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
Parcel B; alternative entrances; and Beats by Dr. Dre.
Larry Kornofsky expressed concern with a high-tension electric
line above a high-pressure gas line between Northgate Street
and the College.
Mike Delgado expressed concern with issues connected to the
Crossroads development; discussed a recent event at Blaze
Pizza; the ratio of retail to business; Conditions of
Approval; the right-turn only restriction; and he requested
help from the City to address the situation.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding the lack of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR);
clarification that the property has been operating without a
permit for over a year; the parking study; valet parking;
identifying and documenting current conditions; permit parking
vs. 24/7; the right turn restriction; the Conditions of
Approval; the driveway; and better communication with
residents.
Michelle Mayans, Ask 2 Know, invited everyone to the West LA
College Open House and she distributed fliers to
Councilmembers.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, referenced
acceptance of items received by the City Clerk’s Office before
4:00 p.m. on items A-1 and A-2, and items received during the
Special Meeting from the Chamber of Commerce.
March 24, 2014
5
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR MARCH 1, 2014 – MARCH 14, 2014.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
ITEMS C-1, C-2 AND C-3.
Item C-1
Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional Services
Agreement with Eagle Pump Services, Inc. in an Amount Not-to-
Exceed $10,000
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH EAGLE PUMP SERVICES, INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $10,000.00 (FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $40,000);
AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
March 24, 2014
6
Item C-2
(1) Rejection of a Bid Submitted by SOPAC General Engineering
and (2) Award of a Construction Contract to FS Construction in
an Amount Not-to-Exceed $59,225 ($52,225 Base Bid Plus $7,000 in
Change Order Authority) for the CDBG Sidewalk & Curb Repair
Project, P-428, CDBG Project No. 601542-13
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) REJECT THE BID SUBMITTED BY SOPAC GENERAL ENGINEERING AS NON-
RESPONSIVE; AND,
2) AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO FS CONSTRUCTION FOR THE CDBG
SIDEWALK & CURB REPAIR PROJECT, P-428, CDBG PROJECT NO. 601542-
13, IN THE AMOUNT OF $59,225 ($52,225 BASE BID PLUS $7,000 IN
CHANGE ORDER AUTHORITY); AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
CHANGE ORDERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $7,000, IF NECESSARY;
AND,
4) AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
5) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-3
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by STL Landscape, Inc.; (2)
Authorization to File a Notice of Completion; and (3)
Authorization to Release the Retention Payment after the
Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period for the Culver City
Demonstration Rain Gardens Project, P-497
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, STL LANDSCAPE,
INC., FOR THE CULVER CITY DEMONSTRATION RAIN GARDENS PROJECT, P-
497; AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO EXECUTE
THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
RECORDER’S OFFICE FOR RECORDATION; AND, March 24, 2014
7
3) AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF RETENTION FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF
$15,802 TO STL LANDSCAPE, INC. UPON EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY-
FIVE DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
notification for item A-2; speakers present for the item;
outreach for the item; the ice rink issue; urgency of the
item; clarification that the item is for discussion purposes
to provide direction to staff and that there will be more
opportunities to provide input on the item; and notification
to business license holders of apartment complexes.
o0o
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD AGENDA ITEM:(1)
Consideration of the Amount of In-Kind Assistance for and
Possible City Sponsorship of The Los Angeles Modernism Show,
The Culver City Car Show, the Culver City Train For Autism 5K
and 10K Run, IndieCade: International Festival of Independent
Games, and the Crush Cancer Event; (2) Approval of Street
Closures Where Applicable; and (3) Approval of Related License
Agreements
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Tim Bomba, Train for Autism, thanked the City Council for
their consideration.
Stephanie Barish, IndieCade, thanked the City Council for past
support; discussed the growth of the event; and the success of
their relocation to Culver City.
Dr. Jay Shery, The Culver City Exchange Club, thanked the City
for past support discussed the growth of the event; clarified March 24, 2014
8
a request in their permit; discussed food trucks vs. local
restaurants; and support of the Downtown Business Association.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
qualifications and requirements; looking at criteria for
first-time events; established, well-supported events; the
increase in the sponsorship request for the Car Show;
additional staff time; requests from previous years; the staff
recommendation; the amount paid by the City last year from the
General Fund; concern with the dollar cap for the Car Show;
actual costs in hours; efficiency with time; overtime; the
difficulty of providing a cap; increased attendance; increases
to event revenue; projected income; expense liability; money
earned by the Exchange Club; admission charges; vendor and
exhibitor charges; analysis to ensure that the cost does not
fall on the City’s shoulders; donations to offset costs;
fencing; safety; and sales tax revenues.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers, staff and Stephanie
Barish regarding clarification on tasks requested to be
completed by IndieCade; the partnership; infrastructure; hotel
accommodations for sponsors; advertising on City buses; venues
for the awards dinner; benefits to the City; and TOT benefits.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the cap on the Car Show expenses; a suggestion to
authorize the waiver of the soft costs with the Car Show
billed for 100% of the hard costs without a cap; adding the
$3,000 that was given last year to the amount requested this
year; keeping the contribution consistent with the previous
year; and agreement to waive soft costs and provide $3,000 in
direct staff costs to The Car Show.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD:
1. DETERMINED THE FOLLOWING LEVELS OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO
PROVIDE FOR THE FOLLOWING 2014 EVENTS: LA MODERNISM SHOW
($1,900 - $1,100 in parking stall rental fees and $800 in in-
kind staff time), CULVER CITY CAR SHOW ($11,500 - $8,500 in
in-kind costs including property rental fee waivers, up to a
$3,000 credit toward hard costs), TRAIN 4 AUTISM CULVER CITY
RUN/WALK ($2,680 - $595 rental fees, $40 sanitation bin fee,
and $2,045 in in-kind staff time), INDIECADE FESTIVAL ($13,360
- $7,475 in property rental fee waivers, $3,500 in in-kind
staff time, $1,615 in in-kind equipment fee waivers, and $770 March 24, 2014
9
in permit fee waivers), AND CRUSH CANCER ($1,875 - $500 in
property rental fee waivers, $1,000 in in-kind staff time,
$300 in in-kind equipment rental, and $75 in permit fee
waivers); AND,
2. DESIGNATED THE FOLLOWING 2014 EVENTS AS A CITY SPONSORED
EVENTS: LA MODERNISM SHOW, CULVER CITY CAR SHOW, TRAIN 4
AUTISM CULVER CITY RUN/WALK, INDIECADE FESTIVAL, AND CRUSH
CANCER; AND,
3. APPROVE LICENSE AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY AND EACH OF THE
FOLLOWING EVENT ORGANIZERS FOR THE USE OF CITY PUBLIC RIGHTS-
OF-WAY, PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT AND IN-KIND STAFF TIME FOR THEIR
RESPECTIVE EVENTS: DOLPHIN PROMOTIONS, THE EXCHANGE CLUB,
TRAIN 4 AUTISM, CREATIVE MEDIA COLLABORATIVE, AND CROSSTOWN
DOGFIT; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
5. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Update on Recent Developments and Discussion of Options
Regarding Hydraulic Fracturing and other Well Stimulation
Operations in the Culver City portion of the Inglewood Oil
Field
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, provided a presentation on the
material of record.
Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Rebecca Rona-Tuttle suggested that the City determine how much
money to set aside for legal costs; determine how many dollars
to pay residents if they sue the City; obligate the oil
company to fund a bond equal to the amount to compensate
residents for potential losses related to fracking; she March 24, 2014
10
discussed County property taxes and declining property values;
protection for property owners; and work for a ban throughout
the County.
Christopher Patrick King urged the City Council to move
forward on a fracking ban in Culver City; he felt that
Sacramento could not be relied upon to protect them; and he
suggested enacting a local ordinance to ban fracking.
Rick Tuttle discussed the actions of other cities to ban
fracking; suggested that Culver City contact other cities for
information; and he discussed money set aside for legal costs.
Adrian Martinez, Earth Justice, discussed assertions by the
oil industry that cities cannot protect residents; constraints
of the law; local and national efforts to protect residents;
and he offered legal support.
David Haake, Sierra Club, reported that the Sierra Club had
called for a moratorium on fracking; pledged his support for
the City’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of fracking in
urban environments; discussed losing family members to cancer;
expressed concern with increased exposure to cancer causing
materials; threatened lawsuits; and he encouraged to the City
to move forward to protect the residents.
Ellie Partovi discussed fumes in her area, and she asked that
a water and air quality study be conducted.
Larry Kornarsky discussed science and earthquakes; expressed
appreciation to the City Council for their efforts; expressed
concern with the frequent presence of oil company workers in
the City; and he requested monitoring of their actions.
Gary Gless, Citizens Coalition for a Safe Community, asserted
that fracking was currently in process in the City; discussed
ground lift; bungalows condemned in the schoolyard; increased
incidences of cancer in the area; decreased property values;
and he asked the City Council to ban the process.
Khin Khin Ghi discussed the lack of information from the oil
industry; chemicals used in fracking; lead, mercury and radon
running off into Ballona Creek; the link between fracking and
earthquakes; and she encouraged the City to prohibit drilling
and fracking in Culver City.
March 24, 2014
11
Stephen Murray, Baldwin Hills Oil Watch, reported that 30% of
the oil field lies below Culver City; discussed Division of
Oil Gas and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR) regulation; a
proposed charter amendment; and he wanted to see the City
offer a comprehensive solution addressing fracking as well as
the expansion of oil extraction in the City.
Carlene Brown discussed what it means to be a Transition City;
commended Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells for her work toward a
sustainable community; expressed appreciation for the support
offered by Earth Justice; and support for Christopher Patrick
King.
David Bromberg, Democratic Club, reported that the Club was
opposed to extreme well stimulation techniques in Culver City
and the surrounding areas; was open to a local or state
solution to secure long and short-term health, safety, and
property; and encouraged the City Council to protect the
health and safety of the community.
Suzanne De Benedittis, Citizens Coalition for a Safe
Community, distributed information to the City Council and
questioned whether a lawsuit or a devastating earthquake would
be more expensive; thanked the City for their work to deal
with hazards associated with the oil field; discussed tactics
of the oil industry; climate change; lax regulators; odors in
her area; the Air Quality Management District; health issues
of her neighbors; insurance bonds; inclusion of a probable
cause agreement; and she expressed concern regarding high
intensity power lines above the gas pipe lines.
Brenna Norton, Food and Water Watch, discussed dangers to
health and property; toxic chemicals being used in LA County;
the prohibition of fracking; threats and lawsuits; actions of
other cities; legal precedents; zoning; and she offered free
legal advice from Food and Water Watch as well as other
communities that have been through the process.
Donna Kent, Downtown Neighborhood Association, thanked the
City Council for their work to protect residents; she asked
the City Council to ban fracking; discussed her work doing
orthopedic clinical research with pharmaceutical and
biological companies; manipulated data; and damage to the
foundation of her home.
J.E. Brockman suggested figuring out how to deal with a
lawsuit; discussed issues caused by fracking; prime fracking March 24, 2014
12
areas; the percentage of residents that signed leases for oil
extraction rights; those who refused to sign; and she
expressed appreciation to the City Council for their work.
Daryl Gale provided background on herself and asked the City
Council to ban or put a moratorium on fracking.
Paul Ferrazzi, Citizens Coalition for Safe Community,
discussed the two-year moratorium; attendance of CAP meetings
by the City representative; the EIR for the PXP plan; well
permitting; the discretionary process; EIRs for injection
wells; the transition from discretionary authority to
ministerial authority; the supporting motion; and efforts to
affect changes to the municipal code to prevent drilling in
Culver City.
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read comments submitted by:
Alicia Teichman
Michael Hersh
Deborah Myers
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
costs to the City for the moratorium; legal costs for the CSD
litigation; costs for Aspen Environmental; legal consultants
for the draft oil drilling ordinance; the current bond for the
oil companies and the likelihood of an increase; industry
standards; protective environmental bonds; moratorium vs. ban;
impacts to current operations; the number of active wells in
the Culver City portion of the oil field; maintenance;
deepening or re-drilling; enacting a moratorium on new
activity vs. current operations; existing wells vs. new wells;
language in the Los Angeles motion; drafting of the municipal
code ordinance; the decision on vested rights; discretionary
action issues; public input; the technical ordinance; the
discussion draft; the CSD and settlement agreement; concern
with losing current protections if the City is sued and loses;
submission of additional applications; the Los Angeles
resolution; working with the City of Los Angeles; the Los
Angeles ordinance; following the lead of Los Angeles; letters
of support from State Senator Holly Mitchell and the Center
for Biological Diversity; appreciation to Mayor Cooper, staff
and to the community for their efforts; effects of oil
drilling; current issues; health issues and property damage;
past issues in the City with leaks, fumes and fires; whether
fracking is good for the City; changes to the process over the March 24, 2014
13
years; the oil company’s fracking study; the industry
standard; and studying a land use moratorium.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells moved that the City Attorney follow in
the footsteps of Los Angeles and study a land use moratorium
to be brought back for a City Council vote, with a zoning
ordinance to place a defensible moratorium on hydraulic
fracturing, acidization, and gravel packing.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the length of the process; the current agreement
that the oil company not ask for any new permits while the
study is in process; ensuring that protections stay in place;
clarification on the actions of Los Angeles; Bonin/Koretz; the
zoning element; the importance of building a coalition;
appreciation for the work of State Senator Holly Mitchell;
getting Inglewood on board; residents that abut the Inglewood
Oil Field; support for the language proposed by the Vice
Mayor; letting Los Angeles lead the way; the Los Angeles
timeline; the importance of strong, defensible language;
working with other cities; appreciation to those groups that
have offered assistance; the actions of Carson; eminent
danger; Occidental Petroleum; the likelihood of getting
another moratorium; the 2009 moratorium; additional technical
information; public concerns regarding health and subsidence;
different circumstances; the length of time for the Los
Angeles process; the importance of a coalition; and whether it
matters who goes first.
Councilmember O’Leary proposed a substitute motion that the
City Council follow Los Angeles due to their greater
resources, and once Los Angeles has acted, that the item
return to the Culver City City Council for consideration.
Councilmember Weissman seconded the motion.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells amended her motion to direct staff to
monitor the actions of Los Angeles if they act, return the
item for consideration by the Culver City City Council while
Culver City progresses with their own proposed moratorium so
that there is a draft in place, or, if Los Angeles does not
act or pass the measure, the item returns to the Culver City
City Council.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the desire for unanimity; clarification that actions
would be taken while waiting for the City of Los Angeles;
writing a defendable moratorium; taking the time to work with March 24, 2014
14
other organizations; moving forward once the document is
ready; the vote of the Los Angeles City Council; concern with
going out in front of Los Angeles; clarification that other
cities have successfully done this; concern that if Los
Angeles doesn’t pass it, Culver City will not pass it; staff
monitoring of the progress of the agenda item; the need to
make the legal findings to justify any moratorium; support for
bringing the item back once the actions of Los Angeles are
known with ongoing work on Culver City’s oil drilling
ordinance in the meantime; clarification that there is no
commitment from the Los Angeles City Attorney that they are
going to act; outreach to the City of Los Angeles; putting
pressure on the County; a suggestion to return in May with the
initiation of the specific plan with an update on the status
of the City of Los Angeles; divergent opinions; drafting the
Culver City moratorium independently of what Los Angeles does;
mirroring actions of Los Angeles; collaboration; involving the
Oil Drilling Subcommittee; contacts with elected officials;
and ensuring that the City Council has a chance to discuss the
item.
Councilmember O’Leary amended his substitute motion and
proposed that the City move forward but follow the City of Los
Angeles if they are moving through a normal process so Culver
City is ready to act.
Councilmember Weissman felt it important to ensure that the
City had a meeting to consider the motion before voting on it.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells amended her original motion to direct
the City Attorney to draft a zoning ordinance to place a
defensible moratorium on hydraulic fracking, acidization and
gravel packing, while at the same time following other cities
and other organizations to create a strong ordinance, and
choose the opportune time to vote on it.
Councilmember Weissman suggested that the City would want to
craft language to be consistent with protective language that
exists elsewhere, which meant waiting.
Discussion continued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the need for discussion of the item after the
actions of Los Angeles become clear.
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE PROVIDED A SUBSTITUTE MOTION THAT THE
CITY COUNCIL:
March 24, 2014
15
1. MOVE FORWARD WITH THE OIL DRILLING ORDINANCE, AND;
2. CREATE A DRAFT OF AN ORDINANCE FOR A MORATORIUM WHICH IS
REVIEWED BY THE OIL DRILLING SUBCOMMITTEE, AND;
3. COMPARE WHAT CULVER CITY COMES UP WITH TO THE CITY OF LOS
ANGELES AND OTHER JURISDICTIONS, AND:
4. MAKE ANY ADJUSTMENTS RECOMMENDED AS A RESULT OF THAT REVIEW
AND HAVE IT REVIEWED BY THE OIL DRILLING SUBCOMMITTEE, AND;
5. BRING THE END RESULT BACK TO THE CITY COUNCIL FOR A VOTE.
VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS SECONDED THE SUBSTITUTE MOTION THAT
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, clarified that
with the passage of the Substitution Motion, all other motions
had died.
o0o
Item A-2
Discussion of Draft Ordinance Regulating Smoking in Multi-Unit
Housing and Direction to Staff
Heather Baker, Assistant City Attorney, provided a summary of
the material of record.
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Alex Comisar, California Apartment Association, reiterated the
position of that organization noting that they felt that
smoking should be a self-regulating issue between tenants and
landlords; he added that if an ordinance is pursued they
wanted to see City enforcement; he discussed liability issues;
the difficulty of having landlords responsible for
enforcement; applying the ordinance to anything being smoked;
he suggested that there be a grandfather period to allow
leases to expire; felt that the issue would work itself out
and that legislative policy was not necessary; and that
members of the Association should not have to enforce a policy
that prohibits smoking on a municipal level. March 24, 2014
16
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding e-cigarettes; self-regulation; enforcement; medical
marijuana; the difficulty of getting problem tenants out;
patios; migrating smoke; policies for common areas; the trend
toward non-smoking buildings; property values; grandfathering;
and expiring leases.
Linda Thomas discussed her experiences with a smoking parent;
concern with endangering children; the American Cancer Society
tests of children in apartments and homes; the difficulty of
finding non-smoking apartments; and she asked the City Council
to protect residents.
Ben Bregman expressed support for regulations to restrict
smoking in multi-unit buildings; he discussed disputes between
residents; designated smoking areas on the property; health
issues; and the authority of the Board of the Homeowners
Association.
Joshua Brindle, Coalition for Smoke Free Living in Culver
City, discussed his father’s cancer experience; secondhand
smoke; information provided to the City Council on the number
of residents who want to live in a smoke free environment;
travelling smoke; he pointed out that voluntary policies could
be changed by a new landlord but City policy would be harder
to change with new ownership; he expressed support for a City-
wide solution; discussed the need for additional protection;
and he noted that the urgency is there not to have the issue
put off any longer.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding single-family residences; renters vs. owners;
condominiums; proximity; common walls; protecting children
from the smoke of their parents in single family homes;
enforcement; nuisance laws; designated areas; smaller
complexes; taking away choice; putting the needs of some
people over others; and separating smokers from those who do
not smoke.
Adam Lane, Coalition for Smoke Free Living in Culver City,
discussed his experiences; empowering tenants and landlords;
and taking a stand against secondhand smoke.
Discussion ensued between staff, Councilmembers and the
speaker regarding whether the landlord designated the unit in
his building as smoke-free; the size of the apartment March 24, 2014
17
building; discrimination against renters based on smoking; and
protected classes.
Angela de Dios, Coalition for Smoke Free Living in Culver
City, discussed her experiences with smoking neighbors; she
expressed concern with the health of her family; and she asked
the City Council to protect residents.
Jesse Hill, Assistant Manager of The Meadows Apartments,
discussed the issue of smoking in apartment complexes;
requested that if smoking is banned the City Council clarify
the definition of smoking, implementation policies, and the
enforcement strategy, the time be allowed to bring leases into
compliance, and that self-regulation be the method of
enforcement.
Discussion ensued between staff, Councilmembers and the
speaker regarding current methods to resolve issues; smoking
stations throughout the property; current applications; lease
issues; evicting problem tenants based on smoking alone; fines
and penalties; liability; language in the discussion draft to
protect the landlord; compliance; lease terms; implementation;
private enforcement mechanisms and City enforcement; and
grouping smokers into one building.
Stephen Murray discussed his experience as a contractor; air
infiltration; airtight buildings; code required air changes;
mechanical and electrical filters; balconies and patios; air
movement; he felt that smoking should be a nuisance so that
people would have a right to complain and take action;
discussed chemical sensitivities; problems with subdividing;
and support for segregating stand-alone structures.
Rich Kissel echoed comments made by Alex Comisar and Jesse
Hill; discussed converting apartments to non-smoking units;
the California Association of Realtors Residential Lease form;
available options; differences between Los Angeles leases and
Culver City leases; conversions; the trend towards more non-
smoking units; and the preference for implementation on a
voluntary basis.
Councilmember Weissman received clarification that that once
the lease becomes month-to-month the terms can be changed.
Steve Rose, President and CEO of the Culver City Chamber of
Commerce, echoed the comments of Alex Comisar, Jesse Hill and
Rich Kissel, and he discussed notification procedures. March 24, 2014
18
Councilmember Clarke received clarification that the Chamber
of Commerce agreed with conditions suggested by Jesse Hill.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
evidence of the trend toward non-smoking units; the intrusive
nature of smoke; concerns with over-regulation; which rights
take precedent; the scope of the ordinance; single family
homes; support for a smoking ban for both new and existing
condos; cities that ban a certain percentage of units;
detached buildings; allowing an 80% ban for those complexes
with detached buildings; the 12-month phase in; landlord
protections; e-cigarettes; medical marijuana; common areas;
designated smoking areas; self-enforcement; eviction; small
claims court; hybrid cities; complaint based enforcement;
education; establishing a strong statement that secondhand
smoke is a health hazard; a suggestion that public area
guidelines include e-cigarettes and medical marijuana;
establish guidelines to give direction; wind direction; a
suggestion to have large projects consider smoking buildings;
small apartments; having enforcement start with the landlord
and the HOA Board; education regarding secondhand smoke for
single family homes; a suggestion to have buildings establish
a policy submitted to the City with a two-year review; a
suggestion to have a 15-month implementation period;
guidelines vs. an ordinance; monitoring; clarification that
guidelines are not enforceable; the fiscal analysis; the
current smoking ordinance; pets; clarification that small
claims court is a private action; disclosure during buying and
selling; ownership issues with condominiums; existing units;
the phase-in plan; grandfathering; locations where smoking is
prohibited; balconies and patios; buffer zones; the Santa
Monica ordinance; outreach; advantages to apartment owners of
having units be smoke-free; having the Homeowner Associations
handle enforcement; controlling smoking in multi-family units;
placing responsibility on the landlords rather than having the
City place a policy on them; state law; options in the staff
report; differing positions of Councilmembers; clarification
on noticing procedures; including a survey with the
notification; and agreement to bring the item back for
additional consideration.
o0o
Item A-3
March 24, 2014
19
(1) Appointment to the Parks, Recreation and Community
Services Commission; and (2) Provide Direction to the City
Manager Related to Vacancies on the Committee on Homelessness,
Landlord-Tenant Mediation Board, and the Fiesta La Ballona
Committee
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
inadequate response; waiting for the next cycle; individual
outreach; late applications; interested parties; community
involvement; the request by the Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commission for an additional Commissioner;
qualifications; precedent; and the importance of having a
choice.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT SCOTT ZEIDMAN TO FILL
VACANT OFFICE NO. 2 OF THE PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY
SERVICES COMMISSION FOR THE UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING ON JUNE 30,
2015. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING MOTION:
AYES: COOPER, CLARKE, WEISSMAN
NOES: O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding another position to be filled on the Parks
Recreation and Community Services Commission; late applicants;
and partial terms.
o0o
Item A-4
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM: FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE REQUIRED - (1)
Approval of an Agreement with AHBE Landscape Architects in an
Amount Not-to-Exceed $140,000 for the Development of a
Streetscape Plan for the Washington National Transit
Oriented Development District; and (2) Approval of a Budget
Amendment Related Thereto
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
two cards had been received in support of the motion.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
March 24, 2014
20
1. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING $140,000 FROM
GENERAL FUND RESERVES INTO ACCOUNT 10150120.619800 (ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT – OTHER CONTRACTUAL SERVICES - A BUDGET AMENDMENT
REQUIRES A 4/5THS VOTE); AND,
2. APPROVE AN AGREEMENT WITH AHBE LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS IN AN
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $140,000 FOR THE PREPARATION OF A
WASHINGTON NATIONAL TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
STREETSCAPE PLAN; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
o0o
Items from Councilmembers
None.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 12:46 a.m., Tuesday, March
25, 2014 the City Council adjourned its meeting in memory of
Virginia Kuechle and Gary Silman to Monday, April 21, 2014 at
7:00 p.m.
o0o
March 24, 2014
21
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
JEFFREY COOPER
MAYOR of Culver City, California