1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE November 25, 2013
CITY COUNCIL 6:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
6:30 p.m.
Present: Jeffrey Cooper, Mayor
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
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Closed Session
At 6:30 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following item:
CS-1 Conference with Existing Litigation
Re: City of Culver City, etc., et al. v. Ana Matosantos, etc.,
et al.
Case No. 34-2013-80001446
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
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Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:05
p.m. with all Councilmembers present.
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November 25, 2013
2
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
Councilmembers Clarke and Weissman joined the Closed Session at
6:40 p.m.
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from
closed session.
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Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Los Angeles City
Councilmember Mike Bonin.
Councilmember Bonin indicated a willingness to work with
Culver City on issues of common interest.
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Presentation
Item P-1
Presentation of a Commendation to the Culver City Garden
Club in Celebration of its 60th Anniversary
Mayor Cooper presented the commendation.
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Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Clarke thanked Larry Kaufman for the reminder
that November 16-23 was National Hunger and Homeless Awareness
Week; he commended the Homelessness Committee for their work;
and he recognized audience member Essence Lynn Wilson,
granddaughter of Annie Wilson of the Blair Hills Neighborhood
Association.
Councilmember O’Leary reported distributing Expo Board
presentations to the City Council; he discussed ridership
numbers; and the Washington National property.
November 25, 2013
3
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF ALEXIS BIRDSHAE,
AMY SHILTON; AND DR. JAY GORDON.
Mayor Cooper reported on a recent meeting of the Westside
Council of Governments hosted by Culver City at the Kirk
Douglas Theatre.
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Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Jim Lissner expressed concern with a 40% increase in red
light camera ticketing; discussed an article in the Los
Angeles Times on red light camera tickets; he distributed a
handout tracking ticketing at cameras in town; he discussed
an increase in ticketing at certain locations and noted that
ticketing in other cities had not increased; he expressed
concern with quotas and fake red light tickets; and he
requested support for state legislation to make notices on
all tickets in English and in Spanish.
Councilmember O’Leary discussed Fines and Forfeitures in
Item C-4 noting that increases to the number of red light
camera citations could be attributed to construction in the
previous year that resulted in closures.
Elena Sweda Neff, Food Forward, discussed their mission;
noted that they were looking to expand to private
properties; discussed the amendment to allow gardening in
City parkways; and she provided statistics on food
distributed by Food Forward.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE. November 25, 2013
4
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Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY
AGENDA ITEM: Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 2, 2013 – NOVEMBER
15, 2013.
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Item JC-2
JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Approval
of a Contract with Comet Electric Inc. in an Amount Not-to-
Exceed $69,747.29 (with an Additional $6,974.73 in Contingency
Funding) for the Lighting Upgrade Project at the Watseka
Parking Structure as Part of the City’s Energy Efficiency and
Conservation Block Grant Administered by the Department of
Energy
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD:
1. APPROVE A CONTRACT WITH COMET ELECTRIC INC. IN THE AMOUNT
OF $69,747.29 FOR THE LIGHTING UPGRADE PROJECT AT THE
WATSEKA PARKING STRUCTURE; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $6,974.73; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY/SUCCESSOR AGENCY GENERAL
COUNSEL TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE
SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY.
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November 25, 2013
5
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1, C-3, AND C-5.
Item C-1
Meeting Minutes
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, indicated
that he would incorporate slight corrections to the minutes
submitted by Councilmember Clarke and by Vice Mayor Sahli-
Wells provided that they reflect what is in the record.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR
MEETINGS OF OCTOBER 28, 2013 AND NOVEMBER 12, 2013.
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Item C-3
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Title 17, Zoning, of the
Culver City Municipal Code (CCMC), Section 17.320.025 to Amend
the Alternative Parking Provisions and Create “Parking
Districts” Within the Hayden Tract and Smiley Blackwelder
Industrial Areas (Zoning Code Amendment, ZCA P-2013126)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING
TITLE 17, ZONING (THE “ZONING CODE”), OF THE CULVER CITY
MUNICIPAL CODE (CCMC), SECTION 17.320.025 TO AMEND THE
ALTERNATIVE PARKING PROVISIONS AND CREATE “PARKING DISTRICTS”
WITHIN THE HAYDEN TRACT AND SMILEY BLACKWELDER INDUSTRIAL AREAS
(ZONING CODE AMENDMENT, ZCA P-2013126).
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Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Culver City Municipal Code
Sections 7.03.305.A.1 and 7.03.305.B.1 Relating to Parking
Violations in Preferential Parking Zones
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING
CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 7.03.305.A.1 AND November 25, 2013
6
7.03.305.B.1 RELATING TO PARKING VIOLATIONS IN PREFERENTIAL
PARKING ZONES.
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Item C-4
(Out of Sequence)
Receipt and Filing of Fiscal Year 2012/2013 General Fund
Preliminary Year End Report
Responding to inquiry, Chief Financial Officer/City Treasurer
Jeff Muir provided a Powerpoint presentation on the 2012-2013
General Fund Preliminary Year End Report; he discussed
Measure Y funds; and he discussed opengov.com which provides
a transparency tool that allows for easy access to the City’s
finances.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the predicted deficit for 2012-2013; trends going forward;
the Utility Users Tax; decreased attendance at the movie
theatres; areas of concern; changing technology; timing
issues; updates to opengov.com; the impacts of changes at
Sony on the City; tools for transparency; positive changes in
the Finance Department; the demise of redevelopment; the
State Department of Finance; and kudos to staff.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013 GENERAL FUND PRELIMINARY
YEAR-END REPORT.
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Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding Between the City and
the Culver City Downtown Business Association (DBA) for
City-Sponsored DBA Events for Calendar Years 2013 and 2014
Councilmember Weissman recused himself from consideration of
the item and exited the dais.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
November 25, 2013
7
1. APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF
CULVER CITY AND THE CULVER CITY DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION
DESIGNATING THE CITED EVENT(S) AS CITY-SPONSORED EVENTS FOR
CALENDAR YEARS 2013 AND 2014; 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
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
Councilmember Weissman returned to the dais.
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Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
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Action Item
Item A-1
(1) Discussion of the Culver City Summer Concert Series and
(2) (If Desired) Provide Direction Related Thereto
Shelley Wolfberg, Assistant to the City Manager, provided a
summary of the material of record.
Mayor Cooper received clarification regarding the number of
concerts produced for the money available.
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marla Koosed questioned whether the event served the efforts
of the Downtown Business Association, the newly created Arts November 25, 2013
8
District or the efforts of the Economic Development
Department; why the contract is not subject to the RFP
process; whether the decision to have an RFP would yield a
different result; whether changing the time or date of the
concert could improve efforts to illuminate certain business
districts; and she noted that the Cultural Affairs
Commission was not able to have input on any decisions
related to the festival.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the last time the item went out for RFP; expressions of
interest; the amount of money available for the series; the
Cultural Trust Fund; reductions to the budget; support for
local businesses and the work of Mr. Mandel; changes to
reporting methods; clarification regarding Sony funding; in-
kind contributions; negotiations with Mr. Mandel; the number
of concerts for the money; the total contribution from the
City; the involvement of the Cultural Affairs Commission;
the dissolution of the Redevelopment Agency; the conduct of
cultural activities in the City; including the Commissions
in the budget process; the Thursday evening schedule;
marketing; reduced attendance; staff availability on
Thursdays vs. Sundays; and competition for funding.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
DIRECT STAFF TO ENTER INTO NEGOTIATIONS WITH BOULEVARD MUSIC
TO HOLD A 2014 CONCERT SERIES WITHIN THE AVAILABLE FUNDING
PROVIDED IN THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPTED BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR
2013/2014.
There was also City Council consensus to direct the Cultural
Affairs Commission to review a Request for Proposals process
to be potentially used for the selection of a producer for
the 2015 Music Festival and to report any recommendations
thereon to the City Council.
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Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No speakers came forward and no cards were received.
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November 25, 2013
9
Items from the City Council
Items from Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells
• Reported hearing concern regarding the closure of the
ice arena
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the status of the ice rink; private property and City input
into the decision; the historic nature of the building; an
upcoming meeting regarding the ice rink; and the process for
nominating a building for historic status.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 8:28 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of Alexis Birdshae, Amy
Shilton, and Dr. Jay Gordon to Monday, December 9, 2013 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
REGULAR MEETING OF THE December 9, 2013
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
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Closed Session
At 6:00 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 10745 Cranks Road
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Charles
Herbertson, Public Works Director/City Engineer; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director; Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator; and Dannie Cavanaugh with
Cavanaugh Realtors
Other Parties Negotiators: Michael Myers M.D. and Pamela M.
Rieder; J. S. Creations, Inc.; Domyan Properties; A. J. Khair
Construction; Henry and Thao Sebata; Fortune Weavers, Inc.; EPI
Investment Realty Inc.; and Matthew Colon
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
December 9, 2013
2
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
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Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:05
p.m. with all Councilmembers present.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from
closed session.
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Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Cary Anderson.
o0o
Presentation
Item P-1
Presentation of a Commendation to Merry Lepper, "First
American Woman to Complete a Marathon" (the Western
Hemisphere Marathon in Culver City)
Mayor Cooper presented the proclamation.
Merry Lepper thanked the City for the honor and provided
background on herself.
Councilmember O’Leary received clarification regarding
training for the event.
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December 9, 2013
3
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Chief Don Pederson introduced the four newest members of the
Culver City Police Department.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF DAVID SMITH.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells announced that the plastic bag ban would
be taking effect on December 28, 2013; discussed statistics on
the number of bags that would be saved; outreach; reusable
bags; she thanked partner organizations in the bag ban; and she
received consensus to agendize a discussion to consider
changing the name of Washington Place to Nelson Mandela Place.
Mayor Cooper thanked Parks, Recreation and Community Services
staff and Commissioners for their work on a draft anti-bullying
policy and he commended them for their public forum on the
subject.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Denise Renteria announced a ceremony to commemorate the 50
th
Anniversary of the failure of the Baldwin Hills Reservoir on
December 14.
Michelle Weiner, Transition Culver City, thanked the City
Council and staff for passing the plastic bag ban and noted
that they were sewing reusable plastic bags.
Disa Lindgren thanked the City Council, staff, merchants and
businesses for their support of the plastic bag ban.
Rich Waters encouraged the City to continue to take down
diseased ficus trees and replant new trees, and he offered
his services as an arborist with the Tree People.
December 9, 2013
4
Mayor Cooper observed that certain trees were already
transitioning.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY
AGENDA ITEM: Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE
CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR NOVEMBER 16, 2013 – NOVEMBER 29,
2013.
o0o
Item JC-2
JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA ITEM (FOUR-
FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT): Approval of an Amendment to an
Existing Agreement with Modern Parking, Inc. for Parking
Management Services at the Cardiff, Ince, and Watseka Parking
Structures and the Venice and Virginia Parking Lots
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD:
1. APPROVE A TRI-PARTY SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MODERN
PARKING, INC. FOR PARKING MANAGEMENT SERVICES AT THE
CARDIFF, INCE, AND WATSEKA PARKING STRUCTURES AND THE VENICE
AND VIRGINIA PARKING LOTS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$802,575 FOR THE FIRST YEAR; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY/SUCCESSOR AGENCY GENERAL
COUNSEL TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
December 9, 2013
5
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE
SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY AND THE SUCCESSOR
AGENCY; AND,
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXTEND
THE AGREEMENT BY ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR IN THE AMOUNT OF
$831,312 IF OWNERSHIP OF THE PARKING FACILITIES REMAINS
UNDETERMINED.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-5 AND C-7.
Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of an Agreement with RSM Services Corporation for the
Purchase of the Ridecheck Plus System in an Amount Not-to-
Exceed $109,580
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF RIDECHECK PLUS FROM RSM SERVICES
CORPORATION IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $109,580; 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.
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Item C-7
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Reciprocal Agreement for Mutual Support for
Transportation Services Known as the California Transit Mutual
Assistance Compact (TransMAC)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
December 9, 2013
6
1. APPROVE A RECIPROCAL AGREEMENT FOR MUTUAL SUPPORT FOR
TRANSPORTATION SERVICES KNOWN AS THE CALIFORNIA TRANSIT
MUTUAL ASSISTANCE COMPACT (TRANSMAC);
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.
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Item C-1
Allocation of Funds for the 2014 Performing Arts Grant
Program as Recommended by the Cultural Affairs Commission
Councilmember Clarke noted the uniqueness of the City and
highlighted work to promote Culver City as a cultural center.
Susan Obrow, Special Events Coordinator, provided a report on
the 2014 Performing Arts Grant Program.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ALLOCATE FUNDS FOR THE 2014 PERFORMING
ARTS GRANT PROGRAM AS RECOMMENDED BY THE CULTURAL AFFAIRS
COMMISSION AND AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT.
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Item C-2
FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT - (1) Award of a Contract to PTM
General Engineering Services, Inc., as the Lowest Responsive
and Responsible Bidder, in the Amount of $376,421 (with
Additional Change Order Authority in the Amount of $41,913)
for the Construction of Linwood E. Howe Safe Routes to School
Project, PZ-941, State Funded Project SR2SL 5240(028); and
(2) Approval of a Budget Amendment Related Thereto
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells indicated that she would need to recuse
herself from consideration of the Irving and Farragut
intersection and she reported discussion with the Public Works
Director about the Ince and Lucerne intersection that would be
addressed in the future.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
contingency funds; unused funds; and the Braddock and Lincoln December 9, 2013
7
intersection.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING FROM THE SPECIAL
GAS TAX FUND (FUND 418) AN AMOUNT OF $22,059; AND
2) AWARD A CONTRACT TO PTM GENERAL ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC.,
AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, FOR THE
LINWOOD E. HOWE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PROJECT, PZ-941, IN THE
AMOUNT OF $376,421, BASED ON ITS BASE BID; AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
CHANGE ORDERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $41,913 (10%) FOR UNEXPECTED
ADDITIONAL COSTS; 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.
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Item C-3
(1) Approval of Final Plans and Specifications; and (2)
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids, for
Construction of the Sawtelle Boulevard/Hayter Avenue/Blanco
Way Traffic Signal Project (PL-002)
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Alison Pryharski discussed notification; expressed concern
with the design of the intersection; ingress and egress for
her driveway; removal of street parking; and quality of life
in the area.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
notification procedures; budget issues; timing; taking an
incremental approach; traffic signal placement; allowing
those residents who weighed in the first time to be included
in the process; and a suggestion to continue the matter for
additional consideration. December 9, 2013
8
Chip Netzel expressed support for allowing those residents
who weighed in the first time to be included in the process,
and for the suggestion to continue the matter for additional
consideration.
Bernie Bronstein discussed original implementation of the
stop sign; increased safety; traffic backup; and he expressed
support for the project with a recommendation to mitigate
light intrusion from the signal.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the proposed configuration; neighborhood input;
driveway access; traffic patterns; left turn pockets; loop
detection; speed of traffic; the gap between the two phases;
timing; notification; revisiting the issue; addressing
speeding; volume of cars; congestion; status of the light
when there is no traffic; outreach to the school; the belief
that a light is superior to a stop sign; liability; and
ensuring that the neighborhood and community are included in
the process.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE SAWTELLE
BOULEVARD/HAYTER AVENUE/BLANCO WAY TRAFFIC SIGNAL; AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR
ITS CONSTRUCTION.
{Note from the City Clerk: As indicated later in these
minutes, the City Council did not take action on this Item C-
3 and directed the City Manager to provide additional
opportunity for public input on this subject and return to
the City Council at a later date.}
o0o
Item C-4
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Unique Performance
Construction, Inc.; (2) Authorization to File a Notice of
Completion; and (3) Authorization to Release the Retention
Payment upon Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period, for the
Washington Place Streetlight Improvement Project, Phase II,
PZ-684.
December 9, 2013
9
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY UNIQUE PERFORMANCE
CONSTRUCTION, INC. FOR THE WASHINGTON PLACE STREETLIGHT
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT, PHASE II, PZ-684;
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; AND
3) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE $7,400.35 IN
RETENTION TO UNIQUE PERFORMANCE CONSTRUCTION, INC. AFTER THE
EXPIRATION OF THE 35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-6
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Between the City of Culver City and the Culver City Senior
Citizens Association
This item was pulled for consideration at a later date.
Kay Heineman, Culver City Senior Center Association, expressed
appreciation for work on the creation of the MOU that she felt
would benefit both the City and the Association and she hoped
that the item would be approved.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS JC-2, C-1, C-2 WITH THE
EXCLUSION OF THE INTERSECTION OF IRVINE AND FARRAGUT, C-3,
AND C-4.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells recused herself and exited the dais.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM C-2
INCLUDING THE INTERSECTION OF FARRAGUT AND IRVING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE December 9, 2013
10
RECUSED: SAHLI-WELLS
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells returned to the dais.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearing
Item PH-1
(1) Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Business
Improvement District Advisory Board’s Annual Report and the
Levy of the Downtown Culver City Business Improvement
District Assessment for 2014; and (2) Appointment of Members
to the Business Improvement District (BID) Advisory Board
for Calendar Year 2014
Councilmember Weissman recused himself and exited the dais.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that the resolution of intention that included the notice of
public hearing had been published in the Culver City News on
November 28, 2013 and mailed to all affected businesses.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF POSTING AND PUBLIC NOTICE. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that no formal written protest had been received.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
SAHLI-WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: December 9, 2013
11
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson discussed the BID renewal process; additional
monies available; the 18-month pilot program; the practices
of Old Town Pasadena; the Downtown Business Association;
repairs needed to the downtown area; employee parking
intrusion into residential neighborhoods; parking turnover;
and free parking.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
SAHLI-WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT ADVISORY BOARD’S ANNUAL REPORT AND THE LEVY OF THE
DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
ASSESSMENT FOR 2014; AND,
2. APPOINT MEMBERS TO THE BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT
ADVISORY BOARD. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
Councilmember Weissman returned to the dais.
o0o
Joint Action Item
Item JA-1 December 9, 2013
12
JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
Consideration of a Financial Assistance Sponsorship of the
“Taste of the Nation” Charitable Fundraising Event Produced
by the Non-Profit Organization Share our Strength
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
There was no response.
Councilmember Weissman received clarification regarding
establishing protocol for sponsorships.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINED TO PROVIDE IN-KIND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO
SHARE OUR STRENGTH FOR ITS TASTE OF THE NATION EVENT ON
SUNDAY, JUNE 1, 2014 AT MEDIA PARK AS REQUESTED; AND,
2. DESIGNATED THE TASTE OF THE NATION EVENT AS A CITY-
SPONSORED EVENT.
o0o
Item JA-2
JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA ITEM
(FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT): (1) City Council Approval of
a Budget Amendment and Transfer from the City’s General Fund
to the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment
Agency; (2) Housing Authority Approval of a Budget Amendment
and Transfer from the Housing Authority to the Successor
Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency; and (3)
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency
Board Approval of a Budget Amendment and Distribution of
$2,724,618 to the Los Angeles County Auditor-Controller to
Satisfy the Other Funds and Accounts Due Diligence Review
and Become Eligible to Receive a Finding of Completion from
the California Department of Finance in Satisfaction of the
Requirements of the California Health and Safety Code
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
There was no response.
December 9, 2013
13
Councilmembers and staff thanked everyone involved for their
work on the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT AND TRANSFER FROM THE CITY’S
GENERAL FUND TO THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY IN THE AMOUNT OF
$1,462,118 (10116100.952550) AND APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT
AND TRANSFER TO THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY IN THE AMOUNT OF
$1,262,500 (47616100.952550).
o0o
Action Item
Item A-1
Discussion of Proposed Modifications to Annual Budget
Process
Jeff Muir, Chief Financial Officer, provided a summary of
the material of record.
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding the
availability of input from Boards, Commissions and
Committees.
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marla Koosed spoke as a private citizen and discussed the
annual budget process; written recommendations from
Commissions, Boards, and Committees; budget workplan
recommendations; and timing.
Gary Silbiger discussed the proposed timelines; public
input; providing easily understandable information; and
holding public forums.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
timing of the process; addressing specific items unique to
the Cultural Affairs Commission; appreciation to staff for
the changes; and a suggestion to utilize a two-year budget
process.
December 9, 2013
14
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No speakers came forward and no cards were received.
o0o
Items from the City Council
None.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 8:56 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of David Smith to Monday,
December 16, 2013 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
REGULAR MEETING OF THE December 16, 2013
CITY COUNCIL 6:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Cooper called the meeting of the City Council to order at
6:30 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 6:30 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 11304 Segrell Way (Former Fire Station No. 3)
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Charles
Herbertson, Public Works Director/City Engineer, Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator, Anthony Davis and Jeffrey
Lemen with Keller-Williams Realty
Other Parties Negotiators: Kalnel Gardens LLC; Building Legacy
Partners, LLC; Thomas James Capital Inc.; EPI Investment Realty
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
December 16, 2013
2
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: City of Inglewood, etc., et al. v. City of Los Angeles,
etc., et al.
Case No. BS143328
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
o0o
Reconvene
Mayor Cooper reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:20
p.m. with all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Cooper indicated there was nothing to report from
closed session.
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Assistant Fire Chief
David White.
o0o
Presentation
Item P-1
Presentation of a Plaque from the American Public Works
Association Related to the City's Jefferson Boulevard
Pedestrian and Bicycle Access Improvements Project at
Hetzler Road
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director/City Engineer,
presented the award to the City Council noting that it was
the second award for the project.
December 16, 2013
3
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Clarke recognized Aris Anagnos, the owner of the
Westside Peace Center, on his 90
th
birthday; he congratulated
Raintree resident Sandy Segal who was honored by the Culver
City Unified School District Board when they renamed the Culver
City Youth Health Center after her for her work; he
congratulated Culver City High School Linebacker Remy Gordy on
being named Co-Defensive Player of the Year for the Ocean
League; and Culver City Coach Jahmal Wright on being named
Coach of the Year.
Councilmember O’Leary wished everyone Happy Holidays, and he
requested discussion of a letter received from the Culver City
Disability Advisory Committee regarding being a host town for
the Special Olympics in 2015.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding a request
for additional information on the event; the intent of the
organizers to have multiple host cities; the number of
participants; timing of the decision on whether to participate;
and agreement to agendize a discussion of the item once
additional information is available.
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells reported on the School Board Council
Liaison Committee meeting earlier in the day; she discussed the
Community Schools Partnership; and Coffee with a Cop.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
August Worchell reported an issue with leaf blowers and
construction in his neighborhood and asked for guidance.
Discussion ensued between staff, Councilmembers, and the
speaker regarding parameters for hours of operation and December 16, 2013
4
emissions; the foundational basis of the ordinance; and
enforcement.
Kay Heineman, Culver City Senior Center, thanked Mayor
Cooper and Councilmember Clarke for attending the holiday
celebration and introduced Culver City Senior of the Year
Marial Rosario Moore.
Marial Rosario Moore thanked the City for the honor.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that one piece of correspondence would be received and filed
as a result of the motion.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney discussed leaf blower
regulations.
o0o
Consent Calendar
Item C-1
Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional Services
Agreement with VCA Code Group in an Amount Not-To-Exceed
$85,000 (for a Total Revised Not-To-Exceed Amount of $180,000)
for Building Inspection Services
Councilmember O’Leary pointed out that the item was for an
increase in monies to conduct inspections noting that revenues
were on track to outpace those of the previous year.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE
A THIRD AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH VCA CODE GROUP FOR AS-NEEDED BUILDING INSPECTION
SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $85,000 (FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED
AMOUNT $180,000).
December 16, 2013
5
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Action Item
Item A-1
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Application for Grant
Funds in the Amount of $791,000 from the Baldwin Hills
Conservancy for Proposition 84 Funding for Hetzler Road
Pedestrian Trail Improvements
Mayor Cooper invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Chris Paine expressed support for the item; discussed issues
created by the popularity of the park; requested that the
City keep an eye on the project; discussed enforcement; the
importance of setting a proper precedent; and the importance
of making the trail visually pleasing.
Alfonzo Wilson thanked the City for their responsiveness; he
asked that the Police Department and Park Rangers work
together on enforcement; he discussed funding; and he asked
whether the City would be working with Los Angeles on the
project.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the border with Los Angeles; agencies involved in the
project; aesthetics; resident opportunity for comment on
path design; concern with slowing down the project; plans
for the project; cooperation between agencies;
acknowledgement of the issues with pedestrian traffic;
research and due diligence; enforcement; separate access;
and signage.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FROM December 16, 2013
6
THE BALDWIN HILLS CONSERVANCY FOR PROPOSITION 84 FUNDING FOR
HETZLER ROAD PEDESTRIAN TRAIL IMPROVEMENTS.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Cooper invited public comment.
No speakers came forward and no cards were received.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Vice Mayor Sahli-Wells
• Thanked staff for their hard work over the past year
o0o
Recess
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, indicated
that all cards for public comment had been received and no
additional cards were anticipated when the City Council
returned from Closed Session to adjourn the meeting.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION.
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7
o0o
Adjournment
Upon return from closed session, there being no further
business, at 9:15 p.m., the City Council adjourned its meeting
to Monday, January 13, 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