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THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE April 23, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 7:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 7:10
p.m.
Present: Micheál O‘Leary, Mayor
Christopher Armenta, Councilmember
Jeffrey Cooper, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
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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 Tyson Brazil.
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Presentations
Item P-1
Presentations from Public Officials and Others to Departing
Councilmember Christopher Armenta
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read a
certificate of commendation to Councilmember Armenta from
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein.
John Nachbar, City Manager, presented a plaque to outgoing
Councilmember Armenta.
Councilmember Armenta thanked everyone; congratulated new
and returning Councilmembers; acknowledged the efforts of
Scott Malsin and Stephen Murray; discussed his years as an
elected official in the City and his decision not to run April 23, 2012
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for Councilmember again; and he thanked the City Manager,
City staff, the community, activists and his family.
Councilmembers thanked outgoing Councilmember Armenta for
his service to the City.
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Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER ARMENTA, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF PAUL PITTI AND
CHET MALANOVSKY.
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Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor O’Leary invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Matthew Hetz, Culver City Symphony Orchestra, discussed
financial difficulties resulting from increased rental fees
for Veterans Auditorium; requested that the City closely
review how rent increases affect arts in the City;
announced their next concert on May 12 at Veterans
Auditorium; reported attending the open house for the
refurbished auditorium; and noted their intent to ensure
that classical and symphonic music is performed in the
City.
Jim Lamb, Ballona Creek Renaissance, discussed the Culver
City Green Space Plan; encouraging enjoyment of the open
space in the City; funded improvements; and he invited
everyone to attend public workshops on April 28 and May 9
at the Veterans Memorial Complex.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read a
written card from Berryman expressing thanks to the City
for the new McLaughlin traffic light.
April 23, 2012
3
Mayor O’Leary reported attending Earth Day at the Star Eco
Station and accepting a plaque to the City in thanks for
recycling efforts.
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Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
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Action Items
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 10, 2012 and Stating the
Results of Such Election in Accordance with the City Charter
Mayor O’Leary invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Karlo Silbiger congratulated elected Councilmembers and
expressed gratitude to Councilmember Armenta for his service to
the City.
Gary Silbiger thanked Councilmember Armenta for his service and
congratulated elected Councilmembers.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, presented a
summary of the material of record.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER ARMENTA, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A
RESOLUTION RECITING THE FACT OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
HELD ON TUESDAY, APRIL 10, 2012 AND STATING THE RESULTS OF
SUCH ELECTION.
Councilmember Armenta exited the dais at this time.
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Joint Action Items April 23, 2012
4
Item JA-1
CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY/SUCCESSOR
AGENCY/FINANCING AUTHORITY JOINT AGENDA ITEM: (1)
Administration of the Oath of Office to the Councilmembers-
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, read a written
comment from Steve Souter; explained procedures; and
administered the oath of office to reelected and newly elected
Councilmembers.
Mayor O’Leary read the policy indicating that the most senior
person is meant to serve as Vice Mayor but noted that
Councilmember Cooper would likely be chosen if Councilmember
Malsin were still on the Council.
Councilmember Cooper nominated Councilmember Weissman to serve
as Mayor of Culver City. Councilmember Clarke seconded the
motion.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells indicated that she was prepared to
nominate Councilmember Cooper but that she would respect his
nomination of Councilmember Weissman.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ELECT
COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AS MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CULVER CITY.
Mayor Weissman discussed the City policy and opened
nominations.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells nominated Councilmember Cooper to
serve as Vice Mayor of Culver City. Councilmember Clarke
seconded the motion.
Hearing no further nominations, Mayor Weissman announced the
closure of nominations.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ELECT
COUNCILMEMBER COOPER AS VICE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF CULVER CITY. April 23, 2012
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Councilmember Sahli-Wells thanked voters for electing her;
vowed to be diligent in her duties; encouraged public
participation; she congratulated reelected and newly elected
Councilmembers; she expressed regret at the low voter turnout;
wanted to work toward more diversity in the City; discussed
areas to improve in the City; the L.A. League of Conservation
Voters; and she thanked her campaign managers, her husband and
children, volunteers and others.
Councilmember Clarke thanked those who supported him in his
efforts to become a Councilmember; saluted outgoing
Councilmembers; thanked fellow Councilmembers; and felt the
City Council would work well together to tackle tough issues.
Councilmember O’Leary thanked his family and his campaign team;
congratulated the new Councilmembers; and was looking forward
to working with the City Council.
Mayor Weissman thanked his wife, children, voters, and those
who supported him and he discussed the work of the City Council
and challenges ahead but felt confident that they would work
well together on behalf of the City.
Vice Mayor Cooper welcomed his four colleagues and quoted
Shimon Peres on a recent visit he made to Culver City.
Councilmembers received their pins.
Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh, West LA College, congratulated the
Councilmembers; thanked the City Council, John Nachbar, Charles
Herbertson and Art Ida for their support; he discussed
accomplishments during his time at the College; and he invited
everyone to attend the Open House on May 19.
Vice Mayor Cooper thanked Mr. Abu-Ghazaleh for his efforts to
work with the City.
Jim Shanman congratulated the Councilmembers and as a member of
the Bicycle Coalition was looking forward to working with the
City.
Dr. Suzanne DeBenneditis congratulated Councilmembers; thanked
them for their service; thanked former Councilmember Armenta
for restoring civility to the City Council; discussed
collaboration and community involvement; provided suggestions
on important ways to help the City; proposed establishing April 23, 2012
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various committees to lessen demands on Councilmembers’ time;
she invited the City Manager to evaluate the costs and benefits
of an engaged electorate serving on committees; she called on
residents to work together; and she presented the City Council
with roses from her garden.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE MAYOR AND VICE
MAYOR SERVE AS THE CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR OF THE HOUSING
AUTHORITY, PARKING AUTHORITY, SUCCESSOR AGENCY, AND FINANCING
AUTHORITY, RESPECTIVELY.
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Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
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Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember O’Leary
• Congratulated Jeff Muir and the Finance Department on
their budget and presentation
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Adjournment
There being no further business, at 8:40 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting in memory of Paul Pitti and
Chet Malanovsky, to a meeting on Monday, May 7, 2012 at
7:00 p.m.
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April 23, 2012
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Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City,California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
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THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE May 7, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 5:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 5:00
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
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Closed Session
At 5:01 PM 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(b)(1)
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation – 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c)
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: Brian Fitzpatrick v. City of Culver City et al.
Case No. CV 11-6616-JFW (CWx)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
CS-4 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 6000 Sepulveda Boulevard (Westfield Culver City)
Agency Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director; Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator; Murray Kane, City Special
Counsel May 7, 2012
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Other Parties Negotiators: Westfield Corporation
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
CS-5 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 5722 Bankfield Avenue and 5649 Selmarine Drive
City Negotiators: City Manager John Nachbar; Director of
Public Works/City Engineer Charles Herbertson
Other Parties’ Negotiators: XXXXX
Under Negotiation: Both Terms and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
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Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:03 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
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Closed Session Report
Mayor Weissman indicated 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 Frank Campagna.
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Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation to the City Council from the Culver City Great
Parks Association Regarding Baseball Hall of Fame Member
Gary Edmund Carter
May 7, 2012
3
Charles Deen provided a presentation on Gary Edmund Carter
noting that he was born in Culver City and played on the
Mets.
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Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Mayor Weissman requested that the meeting be adjourned in
memory of Zach Solomon.
Councilmember Clarke requested that the meeting be
adjourned in memory of Dr. Susan Kinder Haake.
Councilmember O’Leary asked that the meeting be adjourned
in memory of Paul Dawson, Francisco Sanes, Joseph Butler,
Michael Benasa, Robert Pitt, Clifford Valke II, and William
Timothy Dicks, Culver City natives killed in the line of
duty in the Vietnam and the Iraq wars.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS ADJOURNED
THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF ZACH SOLOMON, DR. SUSAN
KINDER-HAAKE, PAUL DAWSON, FRANCISCO SANES, JOSEPH BUTLER,
MICHAEL BENASA, ROBERT PITT, CLIFFORD VALKE II, AND WILLIAM
TIMOTHY DICKS.
Mayor Weissman announced the Cruising Back to the 50s Culver
City Car Show on May 12 on Culver and Washington Boulevards;
performances by 2012 performing arts grant recipients including
Heidi Duckler Dance Theatre at Washing Day Coin Laundry on May
10, he Definiens Project on May 12 at the Julian Dixon Library,
and the Culver City Symphony Orchestra at Veterans Auditorium
on May 12; SpeakEasy in Council Chambers on May 18; and he
indicated that the Cultural Affairs Foundation had an ongoing
program to raise funds to support cultural programming in the
City.
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Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council: May 7, 2012
4
John Cohn, Culver City Exchange Club, discussed the Culver
City Car Show and restricted parking on surrounding
streets; thanked the City for their support; and invited
Councilmembers to attend.
Councilmembers indicated that they had not received their
official invitations.
Paul Ehrlich discussed the budget; past practices and use
of reserve funds; offsetting expenditures; the City budget
committee; citizen input; the budget process; contingency
planning; financial goals and priorities; concern with
maintenance costs; parking meters; ads on City buses;
concern with follow-up; and he wanted to see major changes
in the budget process.
Mayor Weissman indicated that meters would be placed on
Washington and Sepulveda in the next few weeks.
Cary Anderson expressed concern with parking for the Culver
City Car Show; procedures for this year vs. past practices;
notification; double speak; and the lack of enforcement.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding the parking plan; what was done last year;
enforcement; and parking restrictions.
John Cohn, Culver City Exchange Club, indicated that they
direct everyone to the parking structures; he discussed
public announcements and Exchange Club volunteers; and
clarification that there is no street parking.
Discussion ensued between staff, the City Council and Mr.
Cohen regarding positioning of the volunteers; the ability
to communicate issues; enforcement of the agreement;
participation of City staff; compliance; adequate notice;
and continued enforcement efforts.
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Receipt of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
May 7, 2012
5
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Consent Calendar
Item C-1
Meeting Minutes
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE
REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 12, 2012, THE REGULAR MEETING OF
MARCH 26, 2012, AND THE REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 2, 2012.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: COOPER, O’LEARY, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: CLARKE, SAHLI-WELLS
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Item C-2
Cash Disbursements
Councilmember O’Leary requested that he receive electronic
copies of the report form now on and other Councilmembers
agreed to receive reports electronically as well.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells indicated that she would abstain
from voting on the item as she had unanswered questions.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS
FROM MARCH 17, 2012 – APRIL 27, 2012. THE MOTION CARRIED BY
THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: COOPER, O’LEARY, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: CLARKE, SAHLI-WELLS
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MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-3, C-4, C-5 AND C-8. May 7, 2012
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Item C-3
(1) Authorization to File an Application for Funds Made
Available Through the US Department of Justice, Edward
Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program Funds
FY 2012
Councilmember O’Leary requested clarification regarding the
formula used for the JAG fund.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AUTHORIZE THE FILING OF AN APPLICATION WITH THE US
DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, BUREAU OF JUSTICE ASSISTANCE, EDWARD
BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) PROGRAM FUNDS
FY 2012; 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-4
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by American Seating
Company (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
Installation of Fixed Seats in the Veterans Memorial
Building Auditorium (P-876)
Councilmember O’Leary commended American Seating Company
for their work on the Veterans Memorial building.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY AMERICAN SEATING COMPANY
FOR THE INSTALLATION OF FIXED SEATS IN THE VETERANS
MEMORIAL BUILDING AUDITORIUM; AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
EXECUTE THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY AND May 7, 2012
7
SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY RECORDER’S OFFICE FOR
RECORDATION; AND
3) AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF $6,666.54 IN RETENTION FUNDS TO
AMERICAN SEATING FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY-
FIVE DAY LIEN PERIOD.
Item C-5
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Eagle Pump Services, (2)
Authorization to File a Notice of Completion for the Culver
City Park Booster Pump Replacement Project (P-922)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY EAGLE PUMP SERVICES FOR THE
CULVER CITY BOOSTER PUMP REPLACEMENT PROJECT, P-922; AND
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
EXECUTE THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY AND
SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY RECORDER’S OFFICE.
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Item C-8
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of Professional Services Agreement with NBS
Government Finance Group dba NBS for (1) Preparation of the
Annual Sewer User Service Charges and (2) Update to the
Sewer User Service Charges
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1.) APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH NBS
GOVERNMENT FINANCE GROUP DBA NBS FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE
ANNUAL SEWER USER SERVICE CHARGES FOR AN AMOUNT NOT TO
EXCEED $15,500, INCLUDING EXPENSES WITH UP TO FOUR
ADDITIONAL ONE-YEAR EXTENSIONS SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF
THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER; AND,
2.) APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH NBS
GOVERNMENT FINANCE GROUP DBA NBS FOR THE RATE ANALYSIS OF
THE SEWER USER SERVICE CHARGES, IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$26,700; AND
May 7, 2012
8
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.
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Item C-6
Award of a Construction Contract to All American Asphalt as
the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder for the
Sherbourne Drive, South of Washington Boulevard Street
Resurfacing Project, P-955, CDBG Project No. 601392-11
Councilmember Sahli-Wells received clarification regarding
change orders.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL:
1) AWARD A CONTRACT TO ALL AMERICAN ASPHALT AS THE LOWEST
RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER FOR THE SHERBOURNE DRIVE
STREET RESURFACING PROJECT, P-955, IN THE AMOUNT OF
$87,500.00; AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $13,000,
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.
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Item C-7
Approval of Final Plans and Specifications and
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for the
Jefferson Boulevard Pedestrian and Bicycle Access
Improvements Project at Hetzler Road, P-956
Mayor Weissman invited public input. May 7, 2012
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The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Stephen Murray provided a presentation regarding safe
access to the park; crossing safety; a raised landscape
median; improvements to the design; the 20% contingency;
and costs.
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director, acknowledged the
work done by Mr. Murray; discussed research and similar
concerns; jurisdiction of the City of Los Angeles;
discussions regarding potential changes; extending the bike
lane to Higuera; building a ramp at the bridge; and
terminating the bike lane at Holdridge.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding the plan by Alta Planning; Metro access at
Jefferson; whether Los Angeles plans to extend the bike
lane past Higuera; gap closure; the positive working
relationship with the LA DOT staff; willingness of Los
Angeles to change the design; a suggestion to engage in
dialogue with Herb Wesson; funding for ramps for the
Higuera bridge; the parking lot; and possible meters on
Jefferson Boulevard.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL: APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND
AUTHORIZE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF THE JEFFERSON BOULEVARD PEDESTRIAN AND
BICYCLE ACCESS IMPROVEMENTS AT HETZLER ROAD, P-956.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Joint Action Items
Item JA-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING May 7, 2012
10
AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM: Presentation of the City Manager’s/
Executive Director’s Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
Jeff Muir, Chief Financial Officer, introduced the presentation
for the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2012-2013; discussed
the upcoming schedule of meetings; and provided a summary of
the material of record.
John Nachbar, City Manager, discussed previous efforts to
reduce the budget; expenditure reductions; the structural
deficit; personnel reductions; renegotiation of employee
contracts; concern that further cuts would affect services;
dramatic impacts to service levels; the need to increase
revenue; a tax increase; utilizing a public opinion research
firm; and he requested City Council input.
Mayor Weissman discussed previous consideration of the matter;
acknowledgement of underestimating the structural deficit;
resident input; previous cuts; concern with effects to the
quality of life in the City; and negotiations with bargaining
groups.
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marla Koosed reported submitting a letter to the City Council,
and she recommended delaying the reassignments until the
Cultural Affairs Commission could meet as a body, and in their
respective subcommittees and ad hoc subcommittees to make
recommendations to the City Council.
Paul Ehrlich felt that preventative maintenance was radically
understated; that the deficit is much higher than shown; and
that a budget committee was desperately needed.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council regarding
appreciation for public input and the importance of community
input; support for agendizing establishment of a budget
committee; the process; eliminated positions; maintaining
levels of service; accessibility of Councilmembers; levels of
service in Los Angeles; truly addressing the deficit; GASB45;
structural deficits; the initiative of the City to fund before
being mandated to; the dissolution of the Redevelopment Agency;
the remaining City reserve; concern that many California cities
will go bankrupt; potential tax increases; level of services May 7, 2012
11
expected by residents; new sources of revenue; including a
sunset clause with any sales tax increase; public/private
partnerships; private philanthropy and civic involvement;
support for a City Council budget subcommittee; reinstating the
Town Hall concept; creating a timetable for moving forward; and
location of the budget information on the City website.
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Action Items
Item A-1
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 15.01, Benefit
Assessment District, of the Culver City Municipal Code by
Amending Sections 15.01.025 Through 15.01.105 and Adding a New
Section 15.01.110 Relating to Benefit Assessment Districts
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
A discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding corrections and typos; clarification regarding
notification and posting of notices; a suggestion to post
notice on the City website; legal requirements; policy
requirements; the annual inflation factor; and a request
regarding personal pronouns.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 15.01, BENEFIT
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT, OF THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE BY
AMENDING SECTIONS 15.01.025 THROUGH 15.01.105 AND ADDING A NEW
SECTION 15.01.110 RELATING TO BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, noted that the
ordinance would be introduced as presented.
o0o
Item A-2
(1) Adoption of Resolutions and/or Motions Appointing City
Council Members to various Outside Agency Boards, City Council
Subcommittees and Other Related Bodies; and (2) Creation/
Dissolution of Certain Subcommittees May 7, 2012
12
A discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding legal requirements and alternates.
At this time, the following motions were made:
Item 1
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R034
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R034 APPOINTING A MEMBER AND AN ALTERNATE
MEMBER TO THE CITY SELECTION COMMITTEE OF THE LOS ANGELES
DIVISION OF THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES AND TO THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY AND
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R034.
[Mayor Weissman was appointed Member and Councilmember O’Leary
was appointed as Alternate Member.]
o0o
Item 2
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R033
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R033 APPOINTING A DELEGATE AND ALTERNATE
DELEGATE TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DIVISION OF THE LEAGUE OF
CALIFORNIA CITIES AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R033.
[Councilmember O’Leary was appointed as Delegate and
Councilmember Clarke was appointed as Alternate Delegate.]
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Item 3
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R028
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R028 APPOINTING A MEMBER AND AN ALTERNATE May 7, 2012
13
MEMBER TO THE CITY SELECTION COMMITTEE OF LOS ANGELES –
WESTERN REGION AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R028.
[Councilmember O’Leary was appointed as Member and
Councilmember Clarke was appointed as Alternate Member.]
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Item 4
City Legislative Subcommittee - League of California Cities/LA
Division
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE TO THE CITY
LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE – LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES/LA
DIVISION.
o0o
Item 5
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R030
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R030 APPOINTING SPECIFIC REPRESENTATIVES
TO THE INDEPENDENT CITIES RISK MANAGEMENT AUTHORITY AND
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R030.
[Vice Mayor Cooper was appointed as Member; Serena Wright,
Human Resources Director was appointed as Alternate Member;
and Rachelle Adkins was appointed as Substitute Alternate to
the Independent Cities Risk Management Authority’s Governing
Board.]
o0o
Item 6
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R031
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R031 APPOINTING ALTERNATE DIRECTORS TO LOS
ANGELES COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT NO. 5, AND RESCINDING May 7, 2012
14
RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R031.
[Mayor Weissman was appointed as Ex Officio Director and
Councilmember Sahli-Wells was appointed as Alternate
Director.]
o0o
Item 7
Adopt Resolution No. 2012-R032
A discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
alternate representatives; clarification that if two
Councilmembers attend the meeting only one may vote; whether
two alternates may be appointed; providing an opportunity for
additional Councilmembers to participate; and caution
regarding Brown Act issues if three or more members attend.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R032 APPOINTING AN OFFICIAL REPRESENTATIVE
AND ALTERNATE REPRESENTATIVE TO THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (SCAG), AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION
NO. 2011-R032.
[Mayor Weissman was appointed as Official Representative and
Councilmember Sahli-Wells was appointed as Alternate
Representative.]
o0o
Item 8
Westside Cities Council of Governments
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
VICE MAYOR COOPER AS REPRESENTATIVE TO THE GOVERNING
BOARD; AND COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AS THE ALTERNATE TO THE
WESTSIDE CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS.
o0o
Item 9
Interagency Communications Interoperability System (ICIS) May 7, 2012
15
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AS LIAISON TO ICIS.
o0o
Item 10
Exposition Metro Line Construction Authority/Agency Metro
Subcommittee
Councilmember O’Leary encouraged the alternate to attend all
meetings.
Mayor Weissman noted that staff recommended not appointing to
the Agency Metro Subcommittee due to the dissolution of the
Redevelopment Agency.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AS DELEGATE AND COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AS ALTERNATE DELEGATE TO THE EXPOSITION METRO LINE
CONSTRUCTION AUTHORITY BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
o0o
Item 11
Southern California Cities Joint Powers Consortium
A discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding the recommendation to dissolve the consortium.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AS DIRECTOR AND COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AS
ALTERNATE DIRECTOR TO THE SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CITIES JOINT
POWERS CONSORTIUM UNTIL DISSOLUTION OCCURS WITH DIRECTION TO
STAFF TO CONTACT THE OTHER MEMBERS OF THE CONSORTIUM TO
INSTITUTE THE DISSOLUTION.
o0o
Item 12
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Area Advisory May 7, 2012
16
Subcommittee
The City Council took no action to appoint Councilmembers to
the subcommittee in order to allow appointed citizens to act
as City representatives.
o0o
1-B. Appointments to City Council Subcommittees Requiring
Adoption of a Motion
A discussion ensued regarding frequency of meetings; the
purpose served; the budget subcommittee; establishing an ad
hoc subcommittee; and the function of the audit subcommittee.
Items 13-15
(13) Joint Finance and Judiciary Subcommittee; (14)
Treasurer’s Investment Subcommittee; and (15) Audit, Financial
Planning, Budget and Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
THE MOTION APPOINTING VICE MAYOR COOPER AND COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AS MEMBERS OF THE JUDICIARY AND FINANCE SUBCOMMITTEE
AND MEMBERS OF THE AUDIT, FINANCIAL PLANNING, AND BUDGET
SUBCOMMITTEE; THE CITY TREASURER’S INVESTMENT SUBCOMMITTEE AND
THE NEWLY CREATED AD HOC BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 16
Joint Council/Agency Economic Development Subcommittee
Mayor Weissman observed that the committee would no longer be
joint as a result of the elimination of the Redevelopment
Agency and he noted that economic development would continue.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE TO THE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 17 May 7, 2012
17
Joint Culver City Unified School District/City Council Liaison
Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARYAND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS AND VICE MAYOR COOPER TO THE CULVER
CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT/CITY COUNCIL LIAISON
SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 18
Animal Control Subcommittee
Mayor Weissman reported that the recommendation was to
dissolve the committee as it was no longer necessary.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells objected to the dissolution and
asked to serve.
A discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the purpose of the subcommittee; fulfillment of the purpose;
the budget process; the status of the program; and agreement
to dissolve the subcommittee if the Animal Services program is
a programmed budget item and no longer a pilot program.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
DISSOLVE THE ANIMAL CONTROL SUBCOMMITTEE IF IT IS DETERMINED
THAT THE ANIMAL SERVICES PROGRAM IS A PROGRAMMED BUDGET ITEM
AND NO LONGER A PILOT PROGRAM.
[Note from the City Clerk - Through adoption of the City
Council Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2012/2013, the City
Council determined that the Animal Services Program is a
programmed budget item and is no longer a pilot program.
Therefore, this subcommittee is dissolved.]
o0o
Item 19
Los Angeles Airport Expansion Traffic Impact Subcommittee
Mayor Weissman reported that the staff recommendation was to May 7, 2012
18
dissolve the subcommittee and hearing no objection the Los
Angeles Airport Expansion Traffic Impact Subcommittee was
dissolved.
o0o
Item 20
Sustainability Subcommittee
Councilmember Sahli-Wells suggested that there be
asustainability committee open to the community.
Discussion ensued regarding creating an ad hoc subcommittee
and the workplan.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS AND VICE MAYOR COOPER TO THE
SUSTAINABILITY SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 21
Regional Development and Traffic Mitigation Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN TO THE
REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRAFFIC MITIGATION SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 22
Regional Oil Operations Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINT
MAYOR WEISSMAN AND COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS TO THE REGIONAL
OIL OPERATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE.
o0o
Item 23
May 7, 2012
19
Youth Advisory Subcommittee
Discussion between staff and Councilmembers ensued regarding
purpose of the subcommittee; frequency of meetings; and the
recommendation to dissolve the subcommittee and reconstitute
the committee if needed in order to clearly comply with the
Brown Act.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
DISSOLVE THE YOUTH ADVISORY SUBCOMMITTEE AND RECONSTITUTE IT
IF NEEDED IN THE FUTURE.
o0o
Item 24
Affordable Housing Subcommittee
A discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding whether
the subcommittee should be dissolved due to actions by
Sacramento; City Council support of affordable housing;
available funding; and Regional Housing Needs Assessment
requirements.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
DISSOLVE THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING SUBCOMMITTEE AND RECONSTITUTE
IT IF NEEDED IN THE FUTURE.
o0o
1-B2. APPOINTMENTS TO REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD ONLY
SUBCOMMITTEES REQUIRING ADOPTION OF A MOTION
Item 25
Mayor Weissman observed that the Items 25-28 were all
Redevelopment Agency ad hoc subcommittees.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council regarding
Washington/National; the TOD site; the platform site and the
former Spartan Roofing Supply site; the letter of commitment;
and, hearing no objection, it was agreed that the City Council
handle the items.
Ad Hoc Washington/National Subcommittee May 7, 2012
20
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
HANDLE WASHINGTON/NATIONAL SUBCOMMITTEE ISSUES.
o0o
Item 26
Ad Hoc Hayden Tract Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
HANDLE AD HOC HAYDEN TRACT SUBCOMMITTEE ISSUES.
o0o
Item 27
Ad Hoc Sepulveda Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL HANDLE
AD HOC SEPULVEDA SUBCOMMITTEE ISSUES.
o0o
Item 28
Ad Hoc West Washington Boulevard Subcommittee
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE FULL CITY COUNCIL
HANDLE AD HOC WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD SUBCOMMITTEE ISSUES.
o0o
Councilmember O’Leary discussed the Culver City Unified School
District City Council Liaison subcommittee noting urgent items
coming before the City Council and the school, and he
encouraged moving forward with a meeting as soon as possible
regarding the MOU.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
changes at the school district; the joint use agreement; staff
work to complete the process; subcommittee input; and the
timetable for action. May 7, 2012
21
Councilmember Clarke suggested creating a Legislation and
Grants subcommittee to express the views of the City to elected
officials and to be proactive in pursuing grants.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council regarding
an ad hoc subcommittee vs. a standing subcommittee; regular
meetings between a City Councilmember or two and staff; updates
to the City Council; a suggestion to create an ad hoc committee
that can work to justify whether a standing committee is
warranted; financial implications; public input; keeping the
process open; resident volunteers with grant writing
experience; clarifying the purpose of the committee; the
process; length of time for the ad hoc committee to accomplish
the task; clarification that any subcommittee ideas go before
the City Council and are fully vetted with public
participation; and agreement to establish an ad hoc committee
with Councilmembers Clarke and Sahli-Wells to evaluate
legislation for 120 days.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Vice Mayor Cooper
• Expressed support for Town Hall meetings
• Received City Council consensus that Public Works
investigate putting in a pedestrian crossing on Sawtelle
between Braddock and Sepulveda
• Received City Council consensus to consider naming the
Senior Center in honor of Albert and Ursula Vera noting
that the requirement for the honorees to be deceased for
12 months had been met
• Requested City Council consensus to consider tightening up
the language in the Charter regarding term limits May 7, 2012
22
A discussion ensued between staff and City Councilmembers
regarding regularly scheduled Charter review; costs to conduct
a review; reviewing specific parts of the Charter; origin of
the term limits; a citizen initiated action vs. a City Council
initiated action; a suggestion to affect a policy to address
the issue with Charter review to come at the scheduled time;
clarification that changes can only be made to Charter
provisions by a vote of the public; and City Council consensus
to discuss the item.
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Thanked Dan Hernandez for his work on the Laker Viewing
Party at the Senior Center on May 4
Items from Councilmember Sahli-Wells
• Thanked the Fox Hills Neighborhood Association for the
mugs given to the City Council and she encouraged using
them rather than disposable cups
• Discussed the Kids Bike Safety Festival on May 6 at El
Marino organized by Jim Shanman; thanked John Rivera for
his work on safety exercises; reported participation by
the Culver City Police Department; discussed the safety
pledge; bicycle safety; and the Expo Safety Team
Items from Mayor Weissman
• Received consensus to discuss development of a strategy
for the City to recoup costs such as property taxes or
costs related to providing emergency services, for certain
enterprises in the City such as non-profits and schools
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reviewed the
proposed City Council meeting schedule for May and June.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:07 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting in memory Zach Solomon, Dr. Susan
Kinder-Haake, Paul Dawson, Francisco Sanes, Joseph Butler,
Michael Benasa, Robert Pitt, Clifford Valke II, and William May 7, 2012
23
Timothy Dicks, to a meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012 at 7:00
p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City,
California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE May 14, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 5:30
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:31 PM, the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: Lisa Lujan v. City of Culver City et al.
Case No. BC465942
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9300 and 9400 Culver Blvd. and 9099 Washington Blvd.
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director and Murray Kane,
City Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: The Culver Hotel/Century Wilshire
Inc.
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms, including use
restrictions, development obligations and other monetary
related considerations
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
CS-3 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9290 Culver Boulevard and 9099 Washington Boulevard May 14, 2012
2
City Negotiators: John M. Nachbar, City Manager, Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator and Murray Kane, City
Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: Trader Joe’s
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms, including use
restrictions, development obligations and other monetary
related considerations
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
CS-4 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9300 Culver Boulevard.
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director; Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator; Murray Kane, City
Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: Combined Properties Inc./Hudson
Pacific Properties Inc.
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms, including use
restrictions, development obligations and other monetary
related considerations
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
CS-5 Conference with Labor Negotiators
City designated representatives: City Attorney Carol Schwab
and Human Resources Director Serena Wright
Employee Organization: City Manager
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
o0o
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:04 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Closed Session Report
Mayor Weissman indicated nothing to report from closed
session except that item CS-1 was pulled prior to going
into closed session.
May 14, 2012
3
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by John Cohn.
o0o
Presentations
Shelly Wolfberg, Assistant to the City Manager, reported
that item P-1 would be deferred until a representative
could be present; that item P-2 would be pulled as the
individual could not be present and recognition would be
given via the Transportation Department, and that item P-4
would be rescheduled for later in the summer.
o0o
Item P-1
Presentation to the City Council from the Los Angeles
County Assessor's Office
The item was deferred until a representative could be
present.
o0o
Item P-2
Presentation of a Commendation to Transit Operator Manuel
Flores, 2011 Earl Barr Culver City Bus Operator of the Year
This item was pulled.
o0o
Item P-3
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating May as Older Americans
Month
Councilmember Clarke presented the proclamation.
May 14, 2012
4
Kay Heineman, Culver City Senior Center Association,
thanked the City for the recognition and invited everyone
to come to the Senior Center.
o0o
Item P-4
Presentation to the City Council from Southern California
Edison Related to the City's Participation in the Energy
Leadership Program
This item was to be rescheduled later in the summer.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Sahli-Wells thanked the Fox Hills
Neighborhood Association for the gift of mugs so that the
City Council could be waste-free, and she reported
attending the Educational Foundation fundraiser and thanked
them for their efforts.
Councilmember Clarke reported on the many activities over
the weekend including the Education Foundation event; the
Fire Fighter breakfast; the Car Show; the Culver City
Symphony Orchestra performance at Veterans Auditorium; he
discussed increased fees; and he encouraged support of the
Culver City Symphony Orchestra.
Councilmember O’Leary commented on Councilmember Clarke’s
Caribbean dancing at the Sheroes event, and reported a
request of certificates of recognition for Culver City Girl
Scouts.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
May 14, 2012
5
Seth Horowitz, Culver Hotel, reported that the hotel was
graded a 4-star hotel by Expedia and was rated #1 by Trip
Advisor.
John Cohn, The Exchange Club, thanked the Culver Hotel for
their help with the Car Show; reported distributing Car
Show posters to Councilmembers; and discussed the success
of the event.
Cary Anderson reported having a car in the Car Show;
discussed the Car Show violation of the Special Event
permit due to their lack of public notification in the
local paper; noticing regarding parking; past violations;
and the failure of the City to follow up despite his
notifications.
A discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding
support for the event; challenges of parking downtown; the
lack of signage and notification; concern regarding
adherence to agreements; new permit parking in the downtown
area; the conditions of approval; the review meeting; the
Committee on Permits and Licenses; achievable conditions;
creating a checklist and schedule of things to be done for
the Car Show; and concern that the same issues occur each
year.
Ken Spiker pointed out that the franchise towing company
for the Police Department had not gone out to a public bid
in over 20 years; the City is behind the curve in the
franchise fee and in release fees; he discussed practices
of surrounding cities; and he requested the matter be
investigated.
A discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding the process for the towing contract; Police
Department jurisdiction over the matter; whether there is a
towing franchise in the City; a request for additional
information; a request that all areas where the City can
gain revenue be examined in all departments; and
clarification that the City does in fact charge a release
fee.
Terry Avila and Ruth Hollensteiner, La Playa Cooperative
Nursery School, provided background on the school and
welcomed the new City Councilmembers with a gift from the
children.
May 14, 2012
6
Councilmember Sahli-Wells expressed appreciation for the
school.
Florina Rodov, Innovotory School for Professional Youth (I
SPY), discussed the Charter school; reported petitioning
the School District; requested community support and the
support of the City; reported that students would be
looking for professional community mentors and internships;
pointed out that a free school did not exist that addresses
the needs of child professionals; and reported a public
hearing at the School Board on May 22.
Jessica Jacobs presented a video providing information on
the school.
A discussion ensued between staff and the City Council
regarding previous consensus that staff develop a strategy
for addressing schools or non-profits that seek to expand
or come into the City; The Help Group; The Willows School;
whether a moratorium should be instituted; and when a
policy might come forward.
Shelly Wolfberg, Assistant to the City Manager, read
comments submitted by:
Jeremy Owen on behalf of Sofie
o0o
Receipt of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O‘LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT ITEMS C-1
THROUGH C-13.
Item C-1
(1) Acceptance of Grant Funds in the Amount of $182,182
from the Los Angeles County Department of Community and May 14, 2012
7
Senior Services – Area Agency on Aging (AAA) to Fund the
Culver City Senior Nutrition Program in Fiscal Year
2012/2013; and (2) Approval of a Grant Agreement with the
Los Angeles County Department of Community and Senior
Services for a Four Year Cycle Commencing July 1, 2012 and
Ending June 30, 2016
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT GRANT FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $182,182 AWARDED BY
THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND SENIOR
SERVICES – AREA AGENCY ON AGING (AAA) TO FUND THE CULVER
CITY SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM IN FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013;
AND,
2) APPROVE A SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM GRANT AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF
COMMUNITY AND SENIOR SERVICES FOR A FOUR YEAR CYCLE
COMMENCING JULY 1, 2012 AND ENDING JUNE 30, 2016; 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
Item C-2
Adoption of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 15.01, Benefit
Assessment District, of the Culver City Municipal Code by
Amending Sections 15.01.025 Through 15.01.105 and Adding a
New Section 15.01.110 Relating to Benefit Assessment
Districts
Councilmember O’Leary provided corrections to typographical
errors; received clarification regarding language in the
document; and questioned the location where the ordinance
would be posted.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER
15.01, BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT, OF THE CULVER CITY
MUNICIPAL CODE BY AMENDING SECTIONS 15.01.025 THROUGH
15.01.105 AND ADDING A NEW SECTION 15.01.110 RELATING TO
BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS.
May 14, 2012
8
o0o
Item C-3
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for
the Levy and Collection of Annual Assessments for the
Higuera Street Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance
District and Ordering the Preparation of the
Engineer’s Report Thereon for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
Councilmember Sahli-Wells received clarification that the
assessment district was perpetual in order to maintain
landscaping; clarification regarding resident fees;
clarification that more detailed information would be
available in the engineer’s report when the item returns,
clarification that the same applied to items C-5, C-6, C-7
and C-12; and clarification regarding costs of preparing
the engineer’s reports.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE HIGUERA STREET LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING
MAINTENANCE DISTRICT AND ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ENGINEER’S REPORT THEREON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-4
Award of a Construction Contract to Pavement Coatings Co.
as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder for the
2012 Residential Slurry Seal Program, P-863
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding
procedures to encourage contractors to bring projects in
under budget and early.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO PAVEMENT COATINGS CO.,
AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN THE
AMOUNT OF $359,550 FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF 2012 RESIDENTIAL
SLURRY SEAL PROGRAM, P-863; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS TO PAVEMENT COATINGS CO.’S May 14, 2012
9
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF $71,450;
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
Item C-5
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for the Levy
and Collection of Annual Assessments for the Albright Avenue
Streetlight Assessment District and Ordering the Preparation of
the Engineer’s Report Thereon for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding the
language for the fiscal analysis of item C-5 vs. items C-6
and C-7.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE ALBRIGHT AVENUE STREETLIGHT ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT AND ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE ENGINEER’S
REPORT THEREON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-6
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for the
Levy and Collection of Annual Assessments for the Landscape
Maintenance District Number 1 and Ordering the Preparation
of the Engineers Report Thereon for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT NUMBER 1 AND ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ENGINEER’S REPORT THEREON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-7
May 14, 2012
10
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for the
Levy and Collection of Annual Assessments for the Sewer
User’s Service Charge and Ordering the Preparation of the
Engineer’s Report Thereon for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding a
statement regarding cost effectiveness from 1980 and
revenue anticipation notes.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE SEWER USER’S SERVICE CHARGE AND
ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE ENGINEER’S REPORT THEREON
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-8
Award of a Construction Contract to California Professional
Engineering, as the Lowest Responsive and Responsible
Bidder, for the Construction of the Sepulveda Boulevard
Widening Project (Phase II), Street Lighting Upgrade, P-881
Councilmember Sahli-Wells received clarification that the
newer lights were more energy efficient.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEERING, AS THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE
BIDDER, IN THE AMOUNT OF $232,600 FOR THE SEPULVEDA
BOULEVARD WIDENING PROJECT (PHASE II), STREET LIGHTING
UPGRADE, P881; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS TO CALIFORNIA PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEERING’S CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR A NOT-TO-
EXCEED AMOUNT OF $46,400; 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 May 14, 2012
11
Item C-9
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Damon 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 Veterans
Memorial Building Renovations Project, P-876
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, DAMON INC.,
FOR THE WORK PERFORMED FOR THE VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING
RENOVATIONS PROJECT, P-876, 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 $21,205.88 IN RETENTION FUNDS
TO DAMON INC., FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY-FIVE
DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-10
Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing Staff to Submit
Applications through June 30, 2013 for Grant Funding
Associated with the Purchase of Alternative Fuel Vehicles
and Other Emission Control Technologies
Vice Mayor Cooper received clarification that Culver City
had been recognized as a leader in alternative fuels.
Paul Condran, Equipment Maintenance Manager, reported that
the Culver City Equipment Maintenance and Fleet Services
Division had been named fifth in the country and he
provided an overview of the program.
Councilmembers commended the department for their work and
discussed the new buses.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
SUBMITTAL OF GRANT APPLICATIONS AND ACCEPTANCE OF SUCH
APPROVED FUNDING MADE AVAILABLE BY THE AQMD AND THE May 14, 2012
12
MSRC THROUGH JUNE 30, 2013 FOR THE PURCHASE OF ALTERNATIVE
FUEL VEHICLES AND OTHER EMISSION CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES.
o0o
Item C-11
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for the
Levy and Collection of Annual Assessments for the West
Washington Benefit Assessment District Number One and
Ordering the Preparation of the Engineer’s Report Thereon
for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE WEST WASHINGTON BENEFIT ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT NUMBER ONE AND ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ENGINEER’S REPORT THEREON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-12
Adoption of a Resolution Initiating Proceedings for the
Levy and Collection of Annual Assessments for the West
Washington Benefit Assessment District Number Two and
Ordering the Preparation of the Engineer’s Report Thereon
for Fiscal Year 2012/2013
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION INITIATING
PROCEEDINGS FOR THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS
FOR THE WEST WASHINGTON BENEFIT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NUMBER TWO
AND ORDERING THE PREPARATION OF THE ENGINEER’S REPORT THEREON
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
o0o
Item C-13
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with The
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for Transit Bus Tire Leasing
for Five Years
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
May 14, 2012
13
1. APPROVE A NEW FIVE (5) YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH THE GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER COMPANY FOR
LEASED TIRE SERVICES; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SUCH DOCUMENTS
ON BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
Adoption of a Resolution to Vacate a Portion of Ocean Drive
From the East Side of Overland Avenue Extending Approximately
110 feet East to its Easterly Terminus
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director, provided a summary
of the material of record.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC
HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
There was no response.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE
PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council regarding
whether there are any plans to change the property; use of the
property; maintaining the City easement; clarification that the
Redevelopment Agency built the lot back in the 1970s; use of
the lot by other than tenants of 5000 Overland; a request to
confirm that the parking lot meets current codes before May 14, 2012
14
vacating; anticipated costs to the City; and updating Google
maps.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A
RESOLUTION VACATING A PORTION OF OCEAN DRIVE FROM THE EAST
SIDE OF OVERLAND AVENUE EXTENDING APPROXIMATELY 110 FEET EAST
TO ITS EASTERLY TERMINUS.
o0o
Item PH-2
Adoption of a Resolution 1) Establishing and Amending Various
Fees and Charges for Services Provided by the City and 2)
Rescinding Prior Fee Resolution No. 2011-R027 and Portions of
Resolution Nos. 2000-R074, 2003-R023 and 2009-R052
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED IN RESPONSE TO THE PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICES.
Nick Kimball, Senior Management Analyst, provided a summary
of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding cost recovery amounts by department; proposed
revenue; and estimated subsidies.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE
PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the public addressed the City
Council:
Goren Eriksson, Chamber of Commerce, addressed increased
fees; the business tax certificate and other business fees;
gross revenue business taxes; and how the total cost of
doing business in Culver City compares to Los Angeles.
Alan Levy, La Ballona Valley Bromeliad Society, expressed
concern with fee increases to use the facility; drawing May 14, 2012
15
visitors to the City; free entertainment for local
residents; and he noted that the money raised stayed within
Culver City.
Donald Mizumi, La Ballona Valley Bromeliad Society, noted
that they are a non-profit and consider themselves Culver
City-based; he discussed attendance for their free annual
show and sale; expressed concern with increased fees;
discussed the transition fee; he noted that they would be
losing money with increased fees; he observed that the City
was conscious of the environment; discussed civic events to
enrich residents; and he requested City Council
consideration of the fee hikes which could force them to
find a different venue.
Matthew Hetz, Culver City Symphony Orchestra, noted that
orchestras did not make money but did enrich the community;
discussed family events and classical music; expressed
concern with increased fees; and discussed upcoming
concerts.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and the City Council regarding
the subsidy for PRCS programming; the five-year phase in; when
the new fee schedule kicks in; clarification that Veterans
Auditorium is not included in the subsidy; business fees;
facility use fees; reasons for increased fees; vehicle impound
fees; development related fees; fire inspection revenue;
business inspections; advantages for small businesses;
preferential parking districts; developer commitments and
mitigations; a suggestion to create a price structure for
residents and a price structure for businesses; charging market
rates at Veterans Auditorium; clarification regarding
subsidies; fees for adult softball groups vs. AYSO fees; cost
recovery; the 2007 fee study; clarification that there is not
an official police department sanctioned towing company;
competitiveness of fees; revenue generating sources; fees for
Veterans Park; the oil wells and permits; the moratorium; the
new oil drilling ordinance; revisions to the oil permit fee
structure; free calculations; environmental impacts; evaluating
all potential avenues for revenue; additional training of Fire
Department personnel to be able to respond; indirect costs; how
fees and cost recovery goals relate to other cities; community
input into setting cost recovery goals; policy decisions May 14, 2012
16
established by the City Council; concern with remaining a full
service City; issues of equity; supporting and protecting non-
profit organizations providing a public benefit; City Council
direction; the phased in Veterans Auditorium fee increases;
examining City sponsorship; grandfathering groups with regular
events at the auditorium; grant funding; regular users and
annual users; addressing lack of documentation; determining
whether groups are designated as Culver City groups;
clarification regarding ministerial projects; water monitoring;
visitor permits; incentives for zero or low waste events; a
request to postpone fees to allow time for additional public
input as well as more time for consideration; individual
requests for blue curbs painted in front of residences;
criteria to receive a placard; acute vs. chronic conditions;
annual review; the 2012-2013 budget; fee implementation; fair
and equitable treatment of long term users; concern with
driving non-profits out of the City; balancing costs; approving
the fee structure as part of the budget; the date of
effectiveness; and a request to consider fees as an action
item.
Vice Mayor Cooper proposed returning with a discussion of a
policy for long-term users of the facilities.
Further discussion between Councilmembers and staff ensued
regarding voluntary cat license fees; establishing benefits
related to licensing and a penalty for not licensing; the
amount of subsidy for the animal control program; the fee for
storing, selling and displaying explosives; the open flame
burning fee; smoke inhalation; compliance; neighbor to neighbor
disputes; and rounding numbers to even dollar amounts.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A
RESOLUTION 1) ESTABLISHING AND AMENDING VARIOUS FEES AND
CHARGES FOR SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE CITY; AND 2) RESCINDING
PRIOR FEE RESOLUTION NO. 2011-R027 AND PORTIONS OF RESOLUTION
NOS. 2000-R074, 2003-R023 AND 2009-R052 WITH A REQUEST THAT
STAFF REPORT BACK AT ITS EARLIEST OPPORTUNITY FOR A DISCUSSION
OF A POLICY REGARDING FEES FOR LONG-TERM FACILITIES USERS.
o0o
Councilmember O’Leary discussed Culver City residents killed in
action in the Vietnam and Iraq wars.
May 14, 2012
17
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS ADJOURNED,
THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF WILLIAM KRAWLICK, JACK
GORTON, MICHAEL MINCO, TED MILLS, JIMMY PHILLIPS, LAWRENCE
COVER, GORDON BYRON BLACKWOOD, WILLIAM BAYLES CAUTHORNE,
WILLIAM TIMOTHY DIX, ERIC SCOTT MOUNSEY, AND GEORGE PEYTON.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Approval of an Amendment to Exhibit “B” of the Employment
Agreement of the City Manager Clarifying and Implementing the
Residency Incentive
Mayor Weissman reported that an updated agenda item had been
prepared.
Councilmember O’Leary corrected a typographical error on the
agenda report.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson questioned whether the updated agenda item had
been posted online; discussed the base salary of the City
Manager; the residential incentive; and he was pleased that the
City Manager would not have to commute and would gain a vested
interest in the City.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE AMENDMENT TO EXHIBIT “B” OF THE EMPLOYMENT
AGREEMENT CLARIFYING AND IMPLEMENTING THE RESIDENCY INCENTIVE;
AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY
DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF
THE CITY.
May 14, 2012
18
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Egon Monostory discussed the staff report for item PH-1
regarding the parking lot on Ocean Drive; the fact that the
Planning Commission did not allow the conversion of that
portion of Ocean Drive to a parking lot; confusing language;
concern with a cover up of a bootleg private parking lot on
City property; lost revenue to the City; and he suggested that
the City keep the property and charge for the parking.
Mayor Weissman clarified that the City did not own the property
but rather the City had an easement that was vacated, no title
was given up, and he reported that the parking lot was
originally built by the Redevelopment Agency in the 1970s.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Sahli-Wells
• Discussed the letter read earlier in the meeting regarding
a woman who had been attacked noting that the Police Chief
indicated that he would get back to her with additional
information and she questioned what City resources were
available for victims of sexual assault
A discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
additional information to come back to the City Council;
whether the crime occurred within the City; the article in the
Culver City Crossroads; and jurisdiction of the Culver City
Police Department.
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Reported visiting bike friendly Long Beach with
Councilmember Sahli-Wells to observe their forward
thinking bike plan; discussed their funding; their
incorporation of the bike plan into the downtown bike
community as an integral part of maximizing revenue and May 14, 2012
19
patronage; and he encouraged downtown businesses to visit
Long Beach to observe what they are doing
Egon Monostory discussed elderly personal injury victims
injured by uneven Culver City sidewalks; intimidation; a Culver
City settlement; the general release; and he requested that the
City make changes to the agreement so his wife could sign it
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:16 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting in memory of William Krawlick,
Jack Gorton, Michael Minco, Ted Mills, Jimmy Phillips, Lawrence
Cover, Gordon Byron Blackwood, William Bayles Cauthorne,
William Timothy Dix, Eric Scott Mounsey, and George Peyton to a
meeting on Monday, May 21, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City,California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE May 21, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 5:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The special meeting of the City Council was called to order at
5:00 p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:01 PM 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 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c)
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
No one came forward.
o0o
May 21, 2012
2
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 6:10 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, June 4, 2012 at
7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE June 23, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 10:00 a.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The special meeting of the City Council was called to order at
10:10 a.m. at the multi-purpose room of El Rincon Elementary
School
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
(Mr. O’Leary joined the meeting at 10:15 a.m.)
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was performed.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
None.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
No one came forward.
June 23, 2012
2
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Second of Five Planned Community Dialogues on the City’s
Finances
Mayor Weissman requested City Manager Nachbar begin the
presentation.
City Manager Nachbar mentioned the purpose of this morning’s
Special Meeting was to provide members of the public to receive
a presentation from Chief Financial Officer Jeff Muir regarding
the current state of the City’s finances and to provide the
second (of five) planned opportunities for the City Council to
receive input from the community.
Chief Financial Officer Muir began his PowerPoint presentation
where he addressed: Mr. Muir began his PowerPoint presentation
and noted that a summary of the presentation is available on
the City’s website and hard copies were available for the
audience.
Mr. Muir’s presentation focused on the revenues and
expenditures in the General Fund. He touched on the major
decreases in the revenues in the General Fund. Also, certain
areas of expenditures have increased – especially fuel costs,
medical costs, and pension costs. The City has taken
significant steps to reduce expenditures. There was an overall
decrease in staffing of 12%. $1 million in other costs were
reduced. Approximately $6 million in costs were reduced in the
General Fund. These reductions included collaboration with
bargaining units to implement cost reductions and
implementation of the cafeteria plan with an inflation cap. A
second tier of benefits was initiated for new employees.
He continued by mentioning the support of Proposition 22 –
which was meant to protect local funds from being raided by the
State and thereby maintain service levels to the public.
He commented on the former Culver City Redevelopment Agency and
the elimination thereof by the State and the significant
impacts this has had on the City.
June 23, 2012
3
Mr. Muir further clarified the City had a total number of
positions eliminated of 78 over the past 4 years. The
elimination of the Culver City Redevelopment Agency wiped out
the progress the City had made. $7 million in reserves have
been used to date, with an additional $5 million proposed to be
used in FY 2012/2013.
He presented the projection of the City’s general fund over the
next 5 years. Unless revenues were increased or expenditures
decreased, or some combination of both, the City’s emergency
reserves will be gone by 2017. The general fund’s
infrastructure investment is $500, 000, where $2 - $3 million
are needed to upkeep infrastructure. He provided a sample of
what cuts of $7 million could look like. He presented
suggestions from various departments including: Police, Fire,
Parks, Recreation, and Community Services, Community
Development, and Administration.
Mr. Muir also discussed various options for raising revenues.
He discussed various alternatives and then gave examples of the
impacts of a sales tax.
Upon conclusion of the presentation, Mayor Weissman invited
those in the audience to share their thoughts with the City
Council. Discussion involved the potential amount of any sales
tax increase, the rapid response time of the City’s Fire
Department, the need for additional efficiencies at City Hall
and in all City Departments, the idea of a sunset for the
proposed tax, need to revisit the City’s fee structure, the
results of the community survey, the City’s emergency
reserves, the need to restore the reserves, the actual size of
the deficit when unfunded maintenance and repairs were
included, any impacts on Culver City of the soon to arrive
Metro Line, the plans for a unique development at the
Washington/National site, promoting economic growth in the
City, clarification that if a sales tax of $0.05 is approved by
voters that this would maintain City services at the current
level.
Mayor Weissman thanked all of those who took time on a Saturday
to attend this meeting.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
June 23, 2012
4
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
No one came forward.
o0o
Items from the City Council
None of the Council Members offered any comments.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 12:13 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, June 25,
2012 at 7:00 p.m. to be held at the Veterans Memorial Building.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE June 25, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 7:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 7:00
p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Building’s Rotunda Room.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was performed.
o0o
Presentations
Item P-1
Selection of the Winners of the Raffle Held for the Opening of the
Culver City Exposition Light Rail Station on June 20, 2012.
Mayor Weissman announced this item would be postponed so
that the presentation could be done in the City Council
Chambers.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
No announcements were made at this time. June 25, 2012
2
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Alex Chironis made a comment on the parking near his
property located at Washington and McLaughlin.
Goran Eriksson – Chair of the Chamber of Commerce noted
that on July 1 a new law would take effect that requires
businesses to recycle.
Stella Davis – Baldwin Hills area resident. Urged Culver
City to put a ban on fracking.
Paul Ehrlich – Commented on the City’s budget. Asked what
is the cost of the election and the hiring of a consultant.
He also asked about the costs of studying the options to
fracking. He estimated the costs at $500,000.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
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 O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE 2, 2012 – JUNE 15, 2012.
o0o June 25, 2012
3
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-4.
Item C-1
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Downtown
Business Association for Maintenance Services in Downtown
Culver City for Fiscal Year 2012/2013.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE DOWNTOWN
BUSINESS ASSOCIATION FOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN DOWNTOWN
CULVER CITY AT A COST NOT TO EXCEED $54,540 FOR FISCAL YEAR
2012/2013;
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-2
1) Adoption of a Resolution Granting a Fireworks Permit
Jointly to the Culver City Exchange Club and Pyro
Spectaculars to Conduct the Annual Fireworks Display
Sponsored by the City of Culver City and the Culver City
Exchange Club to be held on July 4, 2012; and 2) Approval
of a License Agreement Authorizing the Culver City Exchange
Club’s Use of the City’s GEM Car for the Fourth of July
Event.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ADOPT A RESOLUTION GRANTING A PERMIT JOINTLY TO THE
CULVER CITY EXCHANGE CLUB AND PYRO SPECTACULARS TO CONDUCT
THE ANNUAL FIREWORKS DISPLAY SPONSORED BY THE CITY OF
CULVER CITY AND EXCHANGE CLUB TO BE HELD ON JULY 4, 2012;
June 25, 2012
4
2) APPROVE A LICENSE AGREEMENT AUTHORIZING THE EXCHANGE
CLUB’S USE OF THE CITY’S GEM CAR AT THE FOURTH OF JULY
EVENT;
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.
Item C-3
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Sequel Contractors,
Inc.; (2) Authorization to File a Notice of Completion; (3)
Approval of a Related Construction Contract Amendment; and
(4) Authorization to Release the Retention Payment upon
Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period, for the Baldwin
Avenue Streetlight Improvement and Rain Garden Project, P-
428
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY SEQUEL CONTRACTORS, INC.
FOR THE BALDWIN AVENUE STREET IMPROVEMENT AND RAIN GARDEN
PROJECT, P-428;
2) APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT WITH SEQUEL
CONTRACTORS, INC., TO INCREASE THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AN
ADDITIONAL $ 16,307.28 FOR THE BALDWIN AVENUE STREET
IMPROVEMENT AND RAIN GARDEN PROJECT, P-428;
3) 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,
4) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE $18,723.24 IN
RETENTION TO SEQUEL CONTRACTORS, INC. AFTER THE EXPIRATION
OF THE 35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-4
Approval of Final Plans and Specifications and
Authorization to Publish a Notice Inviting Bids for the
Linwood E. Howe Safe Routes to School Project, P-941. June 25, 2012
5
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE THE FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE
LINWOOD E. HOWE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PROJECT, P-941; AND,
2) AUTHORIZE PUBLICATION OF A NOTICE INVITING BIDS FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF THE LINWOOD E. HOWE SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL
PROJECT, P-941.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
PUBLIC HEARING Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the
Assessment and Ordering the Levy for the Albright Avenue
Street Lighting Assessment District - Fiscal Year 2012/2013
Mayor Weissman summarized the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE
PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
No one came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A June 25, 2012
6
RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR
THE ALBRIGHT AVENUE STREET LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT -
FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
Item PH-2
PUBLIC HEARING - Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the
Assessment and Ordering the Levy for the Higuera Street
Landscape and Lighting Assessment District - Fiscal Year
2012/2013.
Mayor Weissman summarized the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
No one came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE
CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S
REPORT AND AFFIRMING THE EXISTING ASSESSMENT LEVY FOR
HIGUERA STREET LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT -
FISCAL YEAR 2012-2013.
Item PH-3
PUBLIC HEARING - Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the
Assessment and Ordering the Levy for Landscaping
Maintenance District No. 1 - Fiscal Year 2012/2013.
Mayor Weissman summarized the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE June 25, 2012
7
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
No one came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPT THE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S REPORT AND
ASSESSMENT LEVY FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT #1 FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
(Note from the City Clerk – Important additional
information on this item PH-3 appears later in these
minutes)
Joint Action Items
Item J-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY/SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA ITEM:
(1) Adoption of a City Council Resolution Approving the
Transfer of Housing Assets and Obligations From the City to
the Culver City Housing Authority to Implement the Housing
Projects and Programs Identified in the City-Culver City
Housing Authority Cooperation Agreement; (2) Adoption of a
Resolution by the Culver City Housing Authority Accepting
the Transfer of Housing Assets and Obligations from the
City; (3) Adoption of a Resolution of the Successor Agency
to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Effectuating the
Transfer of Housing Assets and Obligations to the Culver
City Housing Authority Pursuant to AB 1X 26; and (4)
Adoption of a Culver City Housing Authority Resolution
Accepting the Transfer of Housing Assets and Obligations
from the Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment June 25, 2012
8
Agency; and Housing Authority Approval of a Related Budget
Amendment.
Mayor Weissman summarized the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE FOLLOWING ACTIONS
BE TAKEN:
FOR THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE
TRANSFER OF THE HOUSING ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS FROM THE
CITY TO THE AUTHORITY TO IMPLEMENT THE HOUSING PROJECTS AND
PROGRAMS IDENTIFIED IN THE CITY-CULVER CITY HOUSING
AUTHORITY COOPERATION AGREEMENT.
FOR THE HOUSING AUTHORITY BOARD: ADOPT A RESOLUTION
ACCEPTING THE TRANSFER OF HOUSING ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS
FROM THE CITY; ADOPT A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE TRANSFER OF
HOUSING ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS FROM THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY;
AND APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING $150,000 FROM
AVAILABLE FUND BALANCE TO ACCOUNT 4767100.619800 TO COVER
EXISTING LEGAL AND FINANCIAL EXPENSES (A BUDGET AMENDMENT
REQUIRES A FOUR-FIFTHS VOTE).
FOR THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY: ADOPT A RESOLUTION EFFECTUATING
THE TRANSFER OF HOUSING ASSETS AND OBLIGATIONS FROM THE
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE AUTHORITY PURSUANT TO AB 1X 26
At this time, Nancy Wileman addressed the City Council
regarding Item PH-3. Ms. Wileman indicated she received
notice of the Public Hearing that indicated the place of
the public hearing was at the City Council Chambers.
Assistant City Manager/City Clerk Martin Cole recommended
the City Council consider a motion to re-open the Public
Hearing for Item PH-3 and, in the case notice was
incorrect, that staff would return to the City Council at a
later date to correct any mistake.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
REOPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR ITEM PH-3.
Item PH-3
(Public Hearing Reopened)
June 25, 2012
9
PUBLIC HEARING - Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the
Assessment and Ordering the Levy for Landscaping
Maintenance District No. 1 - Fiscal Year 2012/2013.
Nancy Wileman addressed the City Council and requested the
pine trees be removed.
Discussion ensued between the City Council and staff
regarding trees and their impacts on the fence; the cost to
the district of the removal of the trees; and the fact that
such removal of trees would be a charge to the assessment
district in fiscal year 2013/2014.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
THE RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S REPORT AND
ASSESSMENT LEVY FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT #1 FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013.
Action Items
Item A-1
Appointments and/or Reappointments to the Planning Commission,
Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission, Civil
Service Commission, Cultural Affairs Commission, Disability
Advisory Committee, Los Angeles Airport Advisory Committee;
Committee on Homelessness; Advisory Committee on Redevelopment
and the Landlord-Tenant Mediation Board.
Mayor Weissman summarized the item.
The following persons addressed the City Council regarding the
appointments to the Planning Commission:
David Voncannon
Kevin Lachoff
Cliff Moser
Steven Murray
After discussion, the City Council tentatively appointed Kevin June 25, 2012
10
Lachoff to the Planning Commission.
After brief discussion, the City Council tentatively re-
appointed Rick Hudson to the Parks, Recreation, and Community
Services Commission.
The following persons addressed the City Council regarding the
appointments to the Civil Service Commission:
Miguel Ramirez
After brief discussion, the City Council tentatively re-
appointed Richard Ochoa to the Civil Service Commission.
The City Council then considered appointments to the Cultural
Affairs Commission. The following persons addressed the City
Council:
Regina Klein
John B. Williams
David H. Young
After discussion, the City Council tentatively appointed
Regina Klein to the Cultural Affairs Commission.
Marla Koosed, Vice Chair of the Cultural Affairs Commission,
suggested that any unsuccessful candidates could perhaps work
on the Cultural Affairs Foundation.
The City Council then considered appointments to the
Disability Advisory Committee. The following persons
addressed the City Council:
Alex Lee
Jay Shery
Barbara Effros Schwartz
Rhonda Wolf addressed the City Council indicating that she
would like to be considered for appointment to the Disability
Advisory Committee.
After discussion, the City Council tentatively
appointed/reappointed Barbara Effros-Schwartz,
Alexander Lee, Robert Montgomery, and Rhonda Wolf to the
Disability Advisory Committee.
The City Council then considered appointments to the Committee June 25, 2012
11
on Homelessness.
After brief discussion the City Council tentatively appointed
Ira Diamond and Deborah Wallace to the Committee on
Homelessness.
The City Council then considered appointments to the
Landlord/Tenant Mediation Board.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells suggested consideration of expansion
of the Landlord/Tenant Mediation Board’s duties.
After discussion, the City Council appointed Seth Lennon
Weiner to the Landlord/Tenant Mediation Board.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL MAKE
THE FOLLOWING APPOINTMENTS/REAPPOINTMENTS:
Kevin Lachoff to the Planning Commission;
Rick Hudson to the Parks, Recreation, and Community Services
Commission;
Scott Ochoa to the Civil Service Commission;
Regina Klein to the Cultural Affairs Commission;
Barbara Effros-Schwartz, Alexander Lee, Robert Montgomery, and
Rhonda Wolf to the Disability Advisory Committee;
Ira Diamond and Deborah Wallace to the Committee on
Homelessness; and
Seth Lennon Weiner to the Landlord/Tenant Mediation Board.
o0o
At 9:04 p.m., Mayor Weissman declared a short recess.
At 9:14 p.m., Mayor Weissman reconvened the City Council
with all members present.
Item A-2
SECOND OF FIVE PLANNED COMMUNITY DIALOGUES ON CITY FINANCES
- A Presentation from the City Manager and Chief Financial
Officer on the State of City Finances and Acceptance of
Public Input and Comment.
Chief Financial Officer Muir began his PowerPoint presentation
and noted that a summary of the presentation is available on June 25, 2012
12
the City’s website and hard copies were available for the
audience.
Mr. Muir’s presentation focused on the revenues and
expenditures in the General Fund. He touched on the major
decreases in the revenues in the General Fund. Also, certain
areas of expenditures have increased – especially fuel costs,
medical costs, and pension costs. The City has taken
significant steps to reduce expenditures. There was an overall
decrease in staffing of 12%. $1 million in other costs were
reduced. Approximately $6 million in costs were reduced in the
General Fund. These reductions included collaboration with
bargaining units to implement cost reductions and
implementation of the cafeteria plan with an inflation cap. A
second tier of benefits was initiated for new employees.
He continued by mentioning the support of Proposition 22 –
which was meant to protect local funds from being raided by the
State and thereby maintain service levels to the public.
Discussion ensued between members of the public, the City
Council, and staff regarding naming rights; use of
volunteers; Los Angeles increased parking ticket fees and
Code enforcement fees; noting that implementation of the
proposed tax would be an impact of $0.05 on a $10.00
purchase; the results of the community survey; competition
with other sales tax measures on the ballot; the need for
the City to continue to seek ways to be more efficient.
Items from the City Council
Items from Council Member Sahli-Wells
Mentioned that Solar Power was being considered for other
locations in the City.
Items from Council Member O’Leary
There will be a Hazardous Waste Round-up on June 30.
o0o
June 25, 2012
13
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:27 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, July 9,
2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council, City of Culver City
Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE July 09, 2012
CITY COUNCIL 6:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The regular meeting of the City Council was called to order at
6:02 p.m. at the Cafetorium in Linwood E. Howe Elementary
School.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 6:03 PM, the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following item:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation – Two Cases
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c)
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:02 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Closed Session Report
Mayor Weissman indicated nothing to report from closed
session.
o0o June 23, 2012
2
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was performed by Desmond Burns.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Clarke reported on Holly Mitchell’s Christmas in
July event occurring on Saturday, July 14, 2012.
Mayor Weissman noted that the Culver City Boulevard Music
Festival would begin its concerts on Thursday July 12th at
7pm.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Linda V. Firth spoke about the Expo Line noise, which has
affected the quality of her life and the value of her home
negatively; mentioned contacting Supervisor Ridley-Thomas and
her plan to contact Karen Bass and Holly Mitchell regarding
noise reduction measures.
Council Member O’Leary invited Ms. Firth to attend the next
Expo Board meeting and asked staff about sound testing. A
discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Staff with Public
Works Director Charles Herbertson, who confirmed that the City
would do its own independent sound levels analysis and look at
construction of sound walls to make sure that they are
compliant.
Ed Firth spoke about the need to extend the sound wall,
explaining that there is no wall from Fay to Robertson and
that the noise resonates through the park.
Management Analyst/Deputy City Clerk Pro Tempore Jeremy Green
read into the record a statement by Marta Zaragoza.
June 23, 2012
3
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY
AGENDA ITEM: Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE
16, 2012 – JUNE 29, 2012 BE APPROVED.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Introduction of an Ordinance Adding a New Chapter 15.12,
Community Facilities District Financing, to the Culver City
Municipal Code.
City Manager Nachbar requested that this item be deferred to
provide more opportunities for review by the public. Mayor
Weissman requested that the item be brought back in the near
future. The City Council concurred with this request and no
further action was taken.
Item A-2
FOURTH OF FIVE PLANNED COMMUNITY DIALOGUES ON CITY FINANCES -
A Presentation from the City Manager and Chief Financial
Officer on the State of City Finances and Acceptance of Public
Input and Comment.
Chief Financial Officer Muir began his PowerPoint presentation
and noted that a summary of the presentation is available on
the City’s website and hard copies were available for the
audience.
Mr. Muir’s presentation focused on the revenues and
expenditures in the General Fund. He touched on the major
decreases in the revenues in the General Fund. Also, certain
areas of expenditures have increased – especially fuel costs, June 23, 2012
4
medical costs, and pension costs. The City has taken
significant steps to reduce expenditures. There was an overall
decrease in staffing of 12%. $1 million in other costs were
reduced. Approximately $6 million in costs were reduced in the
General Fund. These reductions included collaboration with
bargaining units to implement cost reductions and
implementation of the cafeteria plan with an inflation cap. A
second tier of benefits was initiated for new employees.
He continued by mentioning the support of Proposition 22 –
which was meant to protect local funds from being raided by the
State and thereby maintain service levels to the public.
He commented on the former Culver City Redevelopment Agency and
the elimination thereof by the State and the significant
impacts this has had on the City.
Mr. Muir further clarified the City had a total number of
positions eliminated of 78 over the past 4 years. The
elimination of the Culver City Redevelopment Agency wiped out
the progress the City had made. $7 million in reserves have
been used to date, with an additional $5 million proposed to be
used in FY 2012/2013.
He presented the projection of the City’s general fund over the
next 5 years. Unless revenues were increased or expenditures
decreased, or some combination of both, the City’s emergency
reserves will be gone by 2017. The general fund’s
infrastructure investment is $500,000, where $2 - $3 million is
needed to upkeep infrastructure. He provided a sample of what
cuts of $7 million could look like. He presented suggestions
from various departments including: Police, Fire, Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services, Community Development, and
Administration.
Mr. Muir also discussed various options for raising revenues.
He discussed various alternatives and then gave examples of the
impacts of a sales tax.
Upon conclusion of the presentation, Mayor Weissman invited
those in the audience to share their thoughts with the City
Council. Discussion involved other ways that the City could
save money; corporate sponsorships, creating private/public
partnerships, reduction of outside contractors; that the
invocation wastes time; use of volunteers; additional ways to
reduce expenses for maintenance; the state of flux that the
City is in regarding planned development; Fire Department June 23, 2012
5
manpower, which has been the same since the 1970s; support for
a .5% versus a .75% sales tax increase; the suggestion of
increasing the sales tax by 1.0%; the sunsetting of any tax;
increases of revenues; avoiding loss of level of service;
clarification that if a sales tax of $0.05 is approved by
voters that this would maintain City services at the current
level.
Mayor Weissman thanked all of those who took the time to
attend this meeting.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED TO RECEIVE AND FILE THE
PRESENTATION AND PUBLIC INPUT AND COMMENTS.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
No one came forward.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Sahli-Wells
• Thanked all those who attended the meeting and
especially staff members who are also residents;
mentioned that staff is working to get grants to
continue work at the City.
Items from Vice Mayor Cooper
• Requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory Richard
Kitabayashi who died in a traffic accident and the need
for additional traffic mitigation in Sunkist Park.
A discussion ensued between staff and City Councilmembers
regarding various traffic mediations in Sunkist Park at Blanco;
a potential traffic signal midway between the bridge and
Sepulveda, the traffic study from 1997; and City Council
consensus to discuss the item at a future meeting.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS June 23, 2012
6
ADJOURNED THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF RICHARD
KITABAYASHI.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:16 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of Richard Kitabayashi to a
meeting on Monday, July 16, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE September 10, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 6:00 p.m.
CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 6:00
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 6:00 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(b)(1)
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation – 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c)
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: City of Culver City, et al. v. Ugo Pascarella, et al.
Case No. SC115351
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:03 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
September 10, 2012
2
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by Martin Cole, Assistant City
Manager/City Clerk and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by
Booker Pearson.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Weissman indicated nothing to report from closed
session.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS ADJOURNED
THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF THE VICTIMS OF 9/11.
Councilmember Clarke announced a memorial service on Tuesday,
September 11 in front of City Hall at 6:45 a.m.
Councilmember O’Leary reported attending the League of
California Cities conference.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells wished her son Lucien a Happy
Birthday; announced Coastal Cleanup Day on September 15 at
Ballona Creek; invited everyone to join the Culver City Bicycle
Coalition clean up site at the bike path by Duquesne; reported
that she would be serving on a panel for the first Women’s
Bicycling Summit in Long Beach on September 13; she noted that
WestDoc was underway at the Culver Hotel; and she announced a
Police Department Open House on September 15.
Vice Mayor Cooper encouraged everyone to attend the memorial
for 9/11 victims in the City Hall Courtyard, and he noted how
much the world had changed since then.
Mayor Weissman added that the memorial was also an opportunity
to honor those serving in the armed services in the aftermath
of 9/11, and he announced the Culver City Historical Society
celebration of the 95
th
anniversary of the founding of the City September 10, 2012
3
with Meet Me in Culver City on September 23 at the Culver Hotel
hosted by Margaret O’Brien.
Vice Mayor Cooper announced EarthFest L.A. at West Los Angeles
College on September 15.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marta Zaragoza encouraged continued support for the fight
to mitigate issues created by Expo, MTA, and the
Construction Authority; she expressed concern with
Councilmember statements regarding Expo issues; she
discussed serving as a representative vs. serving as an
alternate; Culver City Police Department response to noise
complaints; and permit parking enforcement.
Susan Elaine Wheeler discussed labeling and Genetically
Engineered Foods (GMOs), and she requested City Council
support for Proposition 37.
Ken Ruben thanked Art Ida for his tour of the transit yard
and for a ride on one of the new buses; he requested a bus
bench and a crosswalk to reduce jaywalking near the Expo
station; he discussed noise issues and grants for street
furniture; and he reported that Metro would take over from
Expo on November 19.
Booker Pearson, Upward Bound House, thanked the City
Council for their extension of the rental assistance
program.
Jerri Speed requested support for Proposition 37 requiring
labeling of food if it contains genetically engineered
ingredients.
Larry Brownstein expressed support for Proposition 37, the
California Right to Know Genetically Engineered Food Act,
and he requested that the City Council add it to the agenda
for consideration of support at the next City Council
meeting. September 10, 2012
4
David Church, Culver City Chamber of Commerce, thanked the
Sanitation Division for proactively working to implement
Assembly Bill 341, a new piece of legislation requiring
mandatory recycling for commercial businesses.
Bambi Njamfa, Food and Water Watch, expressed support for
the passage of Proposition 37 and invited the community to
the free screening of Gasland on September 15 at West Los
Angeles College as part of EarthFest.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
This item was considered at the end of the City Council
meeting.
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 COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR AUGUST 4, 2012 – AUGUST 31, 2012.
o0o
Consent Calendar
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that a correction requested by Councilmember Sahli-Wells
had been made to the meeting minutes.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells indicated that she would have to
abstain from voting on the minutes of August 13, 2012 due
to her absence from that meeting.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL September 10, 2012
5
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM C-1 WITHOUT THE MINUTES OF
AUGUST 13, 2012 INCLUDED, AND ITEMS C-2 THROUGH C-5.
Item C-1
Meeting Minutes
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR
MEETING OF JUNE 11, 2012, SPECIAL MEETING OF JUNE 18, 2012,
SPECIAL MEETING OF JULY 2, 2012, SPECIAL MEETING OF JULY
16, 2012, REGULAR MEETING OF JULY 23, 2012, AND SPECIAL
MEETING OF AUGUST 6, 2012.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE
REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 13, 2012. THE MOTION CARRIED BY
THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O’LEARY, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: SAHLI-WELLS
o0o
Item C-2
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by J.D.C. 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 Ballona Creek
Rain Garden Project, P-497
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY J.D.C., INC. FOR THE
BALLONA CREEK RAIN GARDEN 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; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE $15,588.32 IN
RETENTION FUNDS TO J.D.C, INC. AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE
35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
September 10, 2012
6
Item C-3
1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Pacific Hydrotech
Corporation; 2) Authorization to File the Notice of
Completion; and 3) Authorization to Release Retention Funds
after the Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period, for the
Construction of the Braddock Pump Station Upgrade Project,
P-873
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK BY THE CONTRACTOR PACIFIC HYDROTECH
CORPORATION FOR THE BRADDOCK PUMP STATION UPGRADE PROJECT,
PROJECT P-873; 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 $111,804.42 IN RETENTION FUNDS
TO PACIFIC HYDROTECH CORPORATION AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF
THE 35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
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 Sherbourne
Drive Street Resurfacing Project, P-955, CDBG #601392-11
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY ALL AMERICAN ASPHALT FOR
THE SHERBOURNE DRIVE STREET RESURFACING PROJECT, P-955,
CDBG #601392-11; 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; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE $6,078.40 IN
RETENTION FUNDS TO ALL AMERICAN AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF THE
35-DAY LIEN PERIOD. September 10, 2012
7
o0o
Item C-5
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment
Agreement with Time Warner Cable for Use of the Public
Rights-of-Way on Cardiff Avenue and Culver Boulevard
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,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-6
Approval of a Parking License Agreement with Century
Wilshire Incorporated for the Culver Hotel’s Use of Parking
Spaces at Certain City-Owned Parking Facilities
This item was pulled and no action was taken by the City
Council on this item.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Section 17.230.015,
Table 2-8 and Section 17.610.010 of the Culver City Zoning
Code to Allow for the Expansion of Existing Private Schools
Located in the Industrial General (IG) Zone, Subject to September 10, 2012
8
Approval of a Modification to an Existing Conditional Use
Permit (Zoning Code Amendment ZCA P-011154)
Thomas Gorham, Planning Manager, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Mark Armbruster thanked the Planning Commission for their
support, expressed support for the staff recommendation, and
indicated that he was present to answer any questions.
Lisa Rosenstein, Willows Community School, expressed
appreciation to the City for their assistance and hard work.
Carlene Brown, Culver City Progress blog, shared several
quotes; discussed the Willows Community School and Fiesta La
Ballona; and she requested support of the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, stated that
the record would indicate that all public comment would be
contained within the confines of the public hearing.
Cary Anderson discussed public vs. private schools; CUPs;
penalties for CUP violations; the turnover of public schools
to private schools; and consideration of whether actions are
good for the community and whether the community is protected.
Mayor Weissman pointed out economic components to the item.
Jeremy Green, read a comment card submitted by:
Zoenda McIntosh
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER September 10, 2012
9
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, indicated
that emailed comments received earlier in the day were
provided to the City Council and would become part of the
public record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the opportunity cost; participation in community
activities; appreciation to the Planning Commission for
their work; the introduction of a master plan; the 3.5 acre
limitation; the ability of the other two schools to expand
and concern that they will now want to expand to the 3.5
acre maximum; authority of the Planning Commission; zoning
code language; spot zoning; clarification that any
expansion has to go through a public hearing; sensitive
receptors; concern with affects to adjacent industrial and
commercial development; economic impacts to the City;
protecting the City’s future economic viability; support
for the school; the economic study; the loss of
redevelopment; creating a tool to address the potential
expansion by the other schools; and clarification that
expansion is not allowed in the IG zone.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINE THAT NO ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
IS NEEDED BASED ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION’S ADOPTION OF A
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FINDING THAT ZONING CODE
AMENDMENT, PLANNING COMMISSION ZCA RESOLUTION NO. 2012-
P005, WILL NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE IMPACT ON THE
ENVIRONMENT; AND,
2. INTRODUCE THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION
17.230.015, TABLE 2-8 (ALLOWED USES AND PERMIT
REQUIREMENTS) AND SECTION 17.610.010 (NONCONFORMING USES),
TO ALLOW FOR THE MODIFICATION AND/OR EXPANSION OF
NONCONFORMING PRIVATE SCHOOL USES IN THE INDUSTRIAL GENERAL
ZONE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF A MODIFICATION OF AN EXISTING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT.
o0o
Item PH-2
September 10, 2012
10
Consideration of an Appeal of Planning Commission Denial of
Conditional Use Permit Modification (CUP/M 2011-175) to Allow
the Addition of 200 Students to The Help Group Private School
Facility at 12095-12101 Washington Boulevard
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE AND
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED.
Thomas Gorham, Planning Manager, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff
regarding the wall and the City of Los Angeles;
clarification that the study was done on the entire
project, not just on the incremental increase; incremental
development; whether the City is receiving a fair share of
revenue; the voluntary contribution; property and business
taxes; clarification that the taxpayers would not be
subsidizing the expansion of the Help Group; a modification
to limit expansion beyond the current campus; the approved
site plan; and the medical building.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Dr. Barbara Firestone, The Help Group, discussed the
establishment of the school in 1999; the need to expand
programs and services; the challenges of autism; their work
with the City and the state; bond funding; their
demonstrated commitment to the City and neighbors; access
to educational opportunity; and publicly funded tuition.
Susan Osborne discussed her experiences with Village Glen
West.
Ben Reznik, of Jeffer, Mangels, Butler and Mitchell,
discussed the condition dealing with the number of staff
and he thanked the City for their efforts.
September 10, 2012
11
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Mr. Reznik
regarding the specific definition of future plans for the
site; concern with flexibility to the number of staff; Help
Group intent not to trigger any impacts; traffic studies
and parking capacity; the new location for Silver Lining;
the way that staff is counted; the definition of full-time
equivalent staff; impacts; trip generation; and substitute
language.
Carlene Brown discussed the Silver Lining resale store; a
clip of the Help Group graduation ceremony; sensitivity to
neighbors complaints; and mutual benefits.
Larry Green requested that the City Council uphold the
denial and he expressed concern with increased traffic and
parking in the neighborhood.
Wally Marks expressed support for the project and urged
approval of the Help Group request noting that concerns had
been addressed.
Cary Anderson indicated that he could see both sides of the
issue; he asked about staff parking on campus; discussed
the cost of the wall; whether additional students would be
new students or students from other campuses; and the
original intent of the Help Group when opened in 1999.
Doris Green expressed opposition to the expansion of The
Help Group due to parking and traffic issues; she discussed
the number of buses and taxis on site; and she expressed
concern with the size of the yard.
Mayor Weissman received clarification that a condition
could be added that the Help Group discourage parents from
parking in the neighborhood.
Michelle Krupkin expressed support for the Planning
Commission denial of the CUP; she expressed concern that
the traffic report did not fully address certain issues in
the neighborhood; she discussed use of a private road on
the property; safety issues; the existing parking
structure; the number of buses and taxis; staging areas;
concern with taxis and cars blocking driveways; noise
issues; and the number of parking spaces available for
staff.
Vice Mayor Cooper exited the dais. September 10, 2012
12
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read a written comment
submitted by:
Marta Zaragoza
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
ABSTAIN: NONE
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that correspondence received earlier in the day had been
distributed to Councilmembers and would become part of the
official record.
Vice Mayor Cooper returned to the dais.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the original 1999 approvals; the original intent
of The Help Group; Help Group purchase of the property;
Planning Commission denial of the project; sound levels in
the playground; noise studies; working with Los Angeles to
address issues; concentrating on the number of students
rather than the number of staff; the voluntary
contribution; decals for staff cars to discourage
neighborhood parking; support from state and county
officials for The Help Group; adding a condition to address
noise issues; length of the process; due diligence; support
for the process; improvements to the area; traffic
mitigations; support for adding 250 students; monitoring
and enforcement; concern with driveways and safe access; an
assertion that estimated traffic is more than will actually
be present; and whether there is a history of accidents in
the area.
Discussion ensued between the City Council and Ben Reznik
regarding the original intent of The Help Group to expand
and make use of the medical building when the need arose
and funding became available; how the proposed number of
staff was arrived at; full time equivalent language;
clarification that staff could be as many as 230; the
reduction of the expansion from 250 students to 200 September 10, 2012
13
students; playground noise exemptions; and clarification
that the new students will play on a rooftop playground.
Additional discussion ensued between Councilmembers and
staff regarding adding 250 students rather than 200;
impacts to emergency services; clarification that the
traffic study considered 600 students; base traffic;
conditions of approval; adding a condition that any
additional mitigation would be paid for by The Help Group;
suggested language to address the number of staff; concern
with repeated studies and updates; setting a cap on
staffing levels; having The Help Group take affirmative
steps to prohibit parking on the adjacent residential
streets; adequate parking in the structure to accommodate
staff and parents.
Councilmember O’Leary moved to grant the appeal. Vice Mayor
Cooper seconded the motion and the discussion continued.
Further discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Help
Group staff regarding the number of taxis and buses; hours
when taxis and buses are dropping off and picking up; the
three public parking spots on Grandview; turning radius of
the bus and visibility; provided parent parking; and
placing a hard cap on adding 200 students.
Dr. Susan Berman, The Help Group, indicated that they would
appreciate the ability to expand as the need continues to
rise.
Additional discussion ensued between Councilmembers and
staff regarding expanding to the originally requested 250
students; a suggestion that if the expansion to the 600
level is successful that the opportunity to add 50
additional students be allowed; including additional
language in Condition 53 that would enable The Help Group
to submit a request to increase the number by going through
a similar analysis; evaluating impacts to the number of
students; the importance of agreeing upon a cap; the CUP
process; and concern that the information for the agenda
item was based on the 200 student cap.
Ben Reznik indicated that the school would be satisfied
with the 600-student cap, the CPI flexibility and voluntary
payment, and he suggested that The Help Group could take
back their statement that they would never expand beyond September 10, 2012
14
600 students and return for additional consideration if
there is a need for 50 more students.
Further discussion ensued between staff and the City
Council regarding concern with changing consideration of
the item to 650 students; removal of Condition 59; and
agreement to cap staffing levels to 230 with additional
modifications regarding noise and parking.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
2.A ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA), FINDING THE
PROJECT WILL HAVE LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS ON THE
ENVIRONMENT; AND
2.B. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R______, GRANTING THE APPEAL
AND (I) REVERSING THE PLANNING COMMISSION’S DENIAL OF THE
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT MODIFICATION FOR THE INCREASE IN
ENROLLMENT OF THE HELP GROUP SCHOOL AND (II) APPROVING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT MODIFICATION CUP/M 2011-175.
o0o
Recess
At 9:58 p.m. the City Council took a brief recess.
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 10:03 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Item PH-3
Consideration of Appeal of Planning Commission Approval of an
Administrative Site Plan Review to Allow the Development of a
One-Story Retail Building with 2,500 Square Feet of Floor Area
and 12 On-Site Parking Spaces Located at 4436 Sepulveda
Boulevard
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER September 10, 2012
15
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND
FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION.
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, provided a
summary of the material of record.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that correspondence received earlier in the day had been
distributed to Councilmembers and would become part of the
official record.
Mayor Weissman explained procedures for the hearing.
Rob Katherman, 7-11, provided background on the project and
the process; discussed the architecture element; he indicated
agreement to the conditions and to pay for additional
improvements required as the result of scheduled reviews; he
acknowledged a suggestion for a speed hump installation;
agreed to post signage for a 24-hour hotline during
construction and for normal operation; reported submission of
a petition in support of the project; and he noted potential
traffic concerns.
Robert Kahn, RK Engineering Group, Traffic Consultants,
provided background on the company; discussed work with staff;
traffic studies and the lack of a significant impact from a
traffic standpoint; the gap study; mitigation measures for the
project; and he indicated that there would be a follow-up
evaluation at 6 months and one year with any adverse traffic
impacts mitigated at that time.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding the proposed speed hump and previous traffic studies
conducted for 7-11 stores.
Fahwad Ursani, 7-11 Franchisee, indicated that he operated a
7-11 at Sepulveda and Berryman and he discussed their
participation in community service events.
September 10, 2012
16
Aaron Swerdlow, Equitas Engineering, discussed the nature and
challenges of corner projects; appropriate tenants; the
uniqueness of the property; the pedestrian gap study; the
current project; the efforts of staff; maximizing the
potential of the property and improving the area; adherence to
zoning; and he urged approval of the project.
David Schwartz, appellant, provided a Powerpoint presentation;
reported attending many meetings opposing the development;
expressed concern with increased risk to the City based on
insufficient discovery, testing and evaluation; discussed the
proximity of other 7-11s; expressed concern with traffic in
the area; he discussed nearby schools; access to other
businesses in the alley; accident data for nearby
intersections; Taco Bell; concern with inadequate traffic
studies; he read excerpts from the Planning Commission
hearing; discussed the Planning Commission resolution; and he
expressed opposition to the project.
Richard Rownak discussed the accuracy of the traffic and
pedestrian studies; expressed concern for the safety of the
area students; he noted that problems with the project were
compounded by existing circumstances; discussed the bus stop
in front of the business; he requested that the City Council
not allow a development that would generate a high volume of
business at that location; discussed residential input
regarding alley access; concern with access to the property;
delivery trucks; required sight lines; attempts to get a copy
of the traffic study; concern with cut-through traffic in the
neighborhood; improvements to the Sepulveda corridor; the
formula for generating the number of visits per hour; and he
requested that the City Council reject the project.
Alexandra K. Mells asserted that information submitted in the
traffic study was inaccurate; expressed concern with a
potential lawsuit against the City; discussed the standard for
legal lawsuits regarding negligence; and she requested valid,
efficient traffic studies.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the appellants
regarding what business would be appropriate for the parcel.
Marcello Cavallero discussed his previous experiences living
next to a 7-11; recent observations at the Sepulveda and
Berryman 7-11; pro-social and anti-social places; he expressed
concern with undesirable individuals congregating at the 7-11;
children passing the store on the way to school; and proximity September 10, 2012
17
to the school and availability of alcohol and cigarettes.
P. Chris Grossman discussed the abandoned gas station noting
that the 7-11 has been the only proposed development for many
years; he asserted that the development would make no
statistical difference to the traffic in the area; he
discussed the dead-end alley adjacent to the proposed
development; he expressed support for the project; discussed
potential property and sales tax revenue to the City; felt
that the project would increase property values as the vacant
lot would be gone; and he felt that if the project were not
built there would be many more years of an empty lot.
Tom Oliva expressed opposition to the project due to concerns
with safety and increased traffic in the area.
Cary Anderson discussed the petition; the proposed flower
shop; he noted that there were 25 7-11s within 3.6 miles; he
discussed allowable amounts of panhandling and legal
obligations; what the owner is willing to put in writing;
graffiti; whether fresh fruit would actually be available and
who would enforce that; the agreement not to have vending
machines; and community service events.
Barbara Effros Schwartz expressed concern with adding to an
already chaotic corner; discussed cars lined up around the
corner for the Taco Bell; density; the moveable bus stop;
proximity to the YMCA and nursing home; City planning and
development; and the Sepulveda corridor.
Helen Pinkston discussed things that influence a community;
alley access; traffic; she asserted that Sepulveda is a major
highway and Braddock is a small street; she discussed
environmental impacts; she expressed hope that the total
impact of the project is considered; and she read a letter
from a neighbor expressing concern that this development would
preclude development of a better project on the site.
Diana Aceves expressed support for the development.
Mark Trapnell expressed disappointment in another 7-11
approved for the community; concern with proximity to schools
and increased trash; questioned what provisions were in place
and who would be accountable if there is an accident or
traffic is worsened; and he felt that small businesses made
the City unique.
September 10, 2012
18
Steve Rose, Chamber of Commerce, reported that 7-11 is a
member of the Chamber of Commerce; provided a brief history of
the area; asserted that franchisees were small business
owners; discussed the civic involvement of Mr. Ursani; and
expressed support for the development.
Marie Malahi indicated that her property abutted the proposed
development; discussed access to her property; accuracy of the
traffic study; Braddock; Taco Bell deliveries; existing
issues; and she submitted a list of mitigations if the project
is to go forward.
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read written comments
submitted by:
Nicole Sims
Kate Agosta
Carole Myers
Robert Ishida
Discussion between staff and the City Council ensued regarding
use of the property; accuracy of the traffic study; and the
level of increase based on the project.
Alexandra Mells clarified that there are no driveways out onto
Elenda.
Discussion continued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the pedestrian count; school-aged pedestrians;
clarification regarding a typo in the appendix; Exhibit B;
bicycles and pedestrians; pedestrians in the gap study; the
Taco Bell driveway; legal non-conforming use; cut-through
traffic in the alley; driveways on Elenda between Barman and
Lindblade; and pedestrians and California Law.
Rob Katherman, 7-11, discussed delivery schedules; evaluation
of the operation after 6 months to a year; alcohol and tobacco
sales; the speed hump at the Braddock exit; the petition; and
he clarified that the use is approved by the code and by the
Planning Commission.
Vice Mayor Cooper received clarification regarding delivery
times.
David Schwartz, appellant, took issue with comments by the
Traffic Engineer regarding the Taco Bell alley and discussed
addressing current conditions before adding another business September 10, 2012
19
that would cause additional issues.
Alexandra Mells expressed concern with the typographical error
in the appendix, questioning how many more errors there were,
and she requested that the traffic study be done again
correctly.
Richard Rownak expressed concern with inaccuracies in the
traffic study; discussed alternate projects; consequences for
actions taken; and he urged the City Council to deny the
project.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the traffic study; levels of service; perception; the gap
study; accident history; whether the Taco Bell was analyzed;
Taco Bell traffic issues; history of the Taco Bell property;
ingress on to the property; alley access; legal repercussions;
physical design recommendations; circulation on the Taco Bell
site; a better use for the property; uniqueness of the
property; limitations to usages; the importance of reducing
costs and adding revenue; a reminder that the lot was vacant
for 14 years; how to make the project work for the
neighborhood; mitigations; evaluation after 6-12 months;
installing a barrier to prevent left turns onto the property
from Sepulveda Boulevard; making an entrance only on Braddock;
the importance of revitalizing the corner; placing trust in
the Traffic Engineer; concern with accepting the project if
the alley has not been considered; concern with the gap study
and typos; acknowledgement that the developers want to move
forward and the site needs to be developed; cumulative impact;
concern with the best interests of the health and safety of
residents; length of the report; required findings; the
grading of intersections; the design and layout of the
proposed project; concern with a statement regarding
conducting a gap study to placate residents; previous 7-11s
considered by the City Council; an observation that concerns
have not transpired with the other new 7-11s that have opened
in the City; the true traffic impacts; the proposed follow-up
study; paying for mitigations to address impacts; design of
the project; concerns with opportunistic children and food
choices; conclusively proving impacts for specific businesses;
daily variations; police department data; maintenance issues September 10, 2012
20
with median barriers; requiring the developer to maintain a
median; addressing issues with the owner of Taco Bell; and
whether to make Braddock an entrance only access.
Aaron Swerdlow, Equitas Engineering, expressed concern with
restricting access; noted the importance of relying on the
traffic studies; and agreed to remediate impacts at their
cost.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding staff agreement to look at options regarding the
alley and request additional traffic enforcement; what
mitigations can be implemented; a request for neighborhood
consideration in the future and not to implement this type of
use in the future; restrictions in place in the downtown area;
placing conditions for speed humps and the 24-hour hotline
number; Condition 72; and adding maintenance to the
conditions.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2012-R____ DENYING THE APPEAL AND
AFFIRMING THE PLANNING COMMISSION’S APPROVAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE
SITE PLAN REVIEW, ASPR P-2011127, FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A
2,500 SQUARE FOOT CONVENIENCE STORE AT 4436 SEPULVEDA
BOULEVARD WITH THE ADDITIONAL ALTERNATE CONDITION 72 AS
AMENDED TO REQUIRE A 6-MONTH AND 12-MONTH STUDY AFTER
OPERATION TO DETERMINE ANY MITIGATION TO ADDRESS ISSUES IN THE
NEIGHBORHOOD INCLUDING MAINTENANCE OF ANY NECESSARY MITIGATION
MEASURES AND A SEPARATE CONDITION TO REQUIRE THE INSTALLATION
OF A SPEED HUMP IN THE DRIVEWAY ON THE BRADDOCK SIDE OF THE
PROPERTY AND A 24-HOUR HOTLINE.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND
FILE ALL CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED FOR ALL BODIES MEETING THIS
EVENING.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued) September 10, 2012
21
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Philip Eriksson reported that after 17-19 hours of being
awake, humans have reduced cognitive capacity equivalent to a
blood alcohol level of .05% and he encouraged everyone to
drive home safely.
Cary Anderson discussed conditions of approval and expressed
concern with enforcement noting that it is not the
responsibility of the citizens to make sure that conditions
are abided by.
Councilmember O’Leary noted the importance of residential
input.
Angela Campbell expressed disappointment with the approval of
the 7-11 project; agreed with the entrance only proposal for
the 7-11; discussed the difficulty of accessing her property;
noted that the project would hugely impact their lives; she
added that the traffic study was taken on an atypical day; and
she discussed the frequency of near miss accidents.
o0o
Items from the City Council
None. September 10, 2012
22
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 1:00 a.m. on Tuesday,
September 11, the City Council adjourned its meeting in memory
of the victims of 9/11 to a meeting on Monday, September 24,
2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
City of Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE September 24, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 6:00 p.m.
CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 6:00
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, 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(c)
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (3 items)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b)(1)
CS-3 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 10808 Culver Boulevard (Former Armory Site)
City Negotiators: City Manager John Nachbar, Assistant City
Manager Martin Cole
Other Parties’ Negotiators: The Wende Museum
Under Negotiation: Both Terms and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
o0o
September 24, 2012
2
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its 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 David VonCannon.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Weissman indicated there was nothing to report from
closed session and that he had to recuse himself from one
item.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Elena Sweda Neff, Culver City Representative for the Los
Angeles County West Vector Control Board, provided an update on
the West Nile Virus; thanked staff and Councilmembers for their
efforts; discussed standing water in storm drains; and noted
that weekly updates were available.
Bob Saviskas, Executive Director of the Los Angeles County West
Vector Control District, reported that an asymptomatic blood
donor had tested positive for West Nile virus; discussed the
infection of crows; the number of infected birds; preventative
measures; service requests; website updates; and treatment
options.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding clarification that mosquito fish are available at no
cost to residents; improvements in the number of cases in the
area; reminders to use insect repellant during night time
hours; clarification that the insects are genetically
programmed to bite at dawn and dusk, incidences are waning, and
mosquito breeding areas are often man-made; key indicators; the
importance of taking proper precautions to eliminate the September 24, 2012
3
environment that encourages breeding; symptoms; and he provided
contact information for those wishing to learn more.
Mayor Weissman announced the IndieCade Festival on October 6-7
in downtown Culver City.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells thanked volunteers who participated
in California Coastal Clean-Up Day on September 15 and she
discussed participation by the Public Works Department; she
announced a community meeting on the Culver City Green Space
Plan on September 27 in the Garden Room at Veterans Auditorium;
she indicated that she would be participating in the Hollywood
for Habitat for Humanity Build-a-thon at Sony Studios; and she
announced a tentative date for the Affordable Housing Summit on
November 17.
Councilmember Clarke reported attending the employee
appreciation picnic, the Culver City Historical Society event
at the Culver Hotel, and the Police Department Open House.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, discussed the
schedule of City Council meetings for the balance of the year
and requested City Council concurrence in meeting on October 1,
October 8, October 22, November 12, and December 10. No
objection was raised.
Mayor Weissman reported that WiFi and Time Warner were not
currently working in Council Chambers.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
JJ Hoffman, Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition, discussed
their mission; indicated that they wanted to hold the
second Tour de Taste fundraiser on December 2; she hoped
for additional support from downtown businesses; and she
requested help with keeping costs down.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding submitting the request in writing to staff and a
suggestion to invite Culver City businesses to CycLAvia to September 24, 2012
4
help them understand how the event would be a benefit to
them.
David VonCannon reported that the Tellefson community would
be holding a community meeting on October 2 at the King
Fahad Mosque to discuss Measure Y, and he provided an
update on Tilden Terrace.
Cary Anderson reported a dead bird outside the Fire
Department; he noted that birds that die on the weekend are
not tested for West Nile virus; he reported numerous
instances of violations of Condition 92 in the conditions
of approval for the 4043 Irving Place project; and he
requested enforcement of the condition.
Leslie Adler, Culver City Education Foundation, discussed
the All for One campaign.
Joshua Brindle, the Coalition for Smoke Free Living in
Culver City, reported assessing the status of tobacco
control policy in the City; discussed work with the
American Lung Association; resident concerns; multi-unit
housing; the extent of public support; policies of other
cities; information distributed to Councilmembers; and the
multi-unit matrix.
Angela de Dios, Coalition for Smoke Free Living, discussed
her experiences with second-hand smoke and she asked that
the City Council support the Coalition for Smoke Free
Living in Culver City as she felt residents had the right
to breathe smoke-free air in their own homes.
Trevor Yang, Coalition for Smoke Free Living, discussed the
campaign to regulate second hand smoke in multi-unit
housing; his experiences with second hand smoke in his
apartment; and he asked that the City support the
coalition.
Sherwood Kingsley, the Coalition for Smoke Free Living in
Culver City; asked that the City Council pass an ordinance
to prohibit smoking in multi-unit dwellings in Culver City;
he noted that second hand smoke travels easily to different
units and there is no safe level of exposure; he discussed
tobacco smoke residue on walls and ceilings; and he
indicated that the ordinance would benefit residents.
September 24, 2012
5
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
Mayor Weissman received clarification that Action Items A-2
and A-5 would be postponed to a future meeting, and he
encouraged anyone interested in receiving notice on when
the items would be coming back to leave information with
Management Analyst Jeremy Green.
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 COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE
CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR SEPTEMBER 1, 2012 – SEPTEMBER 14, 2012.
o0o
Item JC-2
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD AGENDA ITEM:
Adoption of Respective Resolutions Authorizing the
Processing of Documentation Reflecting the Successor
Agency’s Ownership of Former Culver City Redevelopment
Agency Owned Real Property
Murray Kane, City Special Counsel, noted that the second
paragraph of discussion indicated that decisions of the
Department of Finance are final assuming that they comply
with applicable law and are also subject to judicial
review.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
September 24, 2012
6
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PROCESSING OF
DOCUMENTATION REFLECTING OWNERSHIP OF REAL PROPERTY BY THE
SUCCESSOR AGENCY; AND
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY AND CITY SPECIAL COUNSEL TO
REVIEW/PREPARE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-5.
Item C-1
Approval of a Real and Personal Property Transfer
Agreement, Bill of Sale, and Termination of Lease Agreement
with Time Warner Cable Related to the Antenna Tower and
Appurtenances Located in Culver City Park
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY TRANSFER AGREEMENT,
BILL OF SALE, AND TERMINATION OF LEASE AGREEMENT 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-2
Award of a Construction Contract to Icon West Inc., as the
Lowest Responsive and Responsible Bidder, for the
Construction of the Transfer Station Wall Repair Project,
P-948
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: September 24, 2012
7
1. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ICON WEST, INC., AS THE
LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, IN THE AMOUNT OF
$71,740 FOR THE TRANSFER STATION WALL REPAIR PROJECT, P-
948; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF
$15,000; 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
Item C-3
Approval of a License Agreement with Willy Bietak
Productions for the Use of Parcel B for an Ice Skating Rink
at 9300 Culver Boulevard (Parcel B)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH WILLY BIETAK
PRODUCTIONS INC. TO OPERATE AN ICE SKATING RINK AT PARCEL
B; 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 an Ordinance Amending Section 17.230.015, Table
2-8 and Section 17.610.010 of the Culver City Zoning Code
to Allow for the Expansion of Existing Private Schools
Located in the Industrial General (IG) Zone, Subject to
Approval of a Modification to an Existing Conditional
Use Permit (Zoning Code Amendment ZCA P-2011154)
September 24, 2012
8
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE
AMENDING TITLE 17, ZONING, OF THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL
CODE, SECTION 17.230.015, TABLE 2-8 (ALLOWED USES AND
PERMIT REQUIREMENTS) AND SECTION 17.610.010 (NONCONFORMING
USES), TO ALLOW FOR THE MODIFICATION AND/OR EXPANSION OF
NONCONFORMING PRIVATE SCHOOL USES IN THE INDUSTRIAL GENERAL
ZONE SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF A MODIFICATION TO AN EXISTING
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (ZONING CODE AMENDMENT ZCA P-
2011154).
o0o
Item C-5
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Amendment to the Los
Angeles Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime
Task Force Joint Powers Agreement
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN
AMENDMENT TO THE LOS ANGELES INTERAGENCY METROPOLITAN
POLICE APPREHENSION CRIME TASK FORCE JOINT POWERS
AGREEMENT.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of Whether to Place an Item on a Future City
Council Meeting Agenda Related to a Request for a Fee
Waiver for a Contemplated Variance Application by Mr. David
Baker, Property Owner of 4272 Jackson Avenue
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, provided a
summary of the material of record noting that the question to
consider is whether the City Council would like to hear a full
discussion of the fee waiver request.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the way the fee is calculated; studying the
applicability of the current fee; clarification that September 24, 2012
9
variances are highly uncommon; the complexity and staff
intensiveness of variance applications; initiating a study
to review variance fees; whether a different class of fee
is warranted for a single family residence; the original
fee study; costs for staff time; actual costs; additional
construction after purchase; whether the variance fee is
accurate; basing the fee strictly on estimated staff hours;
difficulty of coming up with an accurate estimate; having a
fee structure that encourages compliance; and fee waiver
vs. fee reduction.
The City Council directed the City Manager to cause a study
to be made of whether a separate category of variance fees
for cases similar to the subject of this evening’s
discussion was warranted and to return a report to the City
Council at a future City Council meeting on this subject.
o0o
Item A-2
Consideration of the Installation of Shared Lane Markings
(“Sharrows”) in the Sepulveda AIP Along Sepulveda Boulevard
from Culver Boulevard to the City-limit Line South of Franklin
Avenue
John Nachbar, City Manager, requested that the item be
postponed to a future meeting to allow time to expand notice
requirements. The City Council concurred with the request and
took no action on this item at this time.
o0o
Item A-3
Consideration of a Pending Vacancy on the Cultural Affairs
Commission and Direction to the City Manager Related Thereto
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
confirmation that options presented are legal; appreciation
to Commissioner Musicant for her service; the importance of
the arts in the community; confirmation that the remaining
candidates from last June are still interested.
September 24, 2012
10
The City Council concurred to bring back the two applicants
from June for consideration at a future City Council Meeting.
o0o
Item A-4
Adoption of a Resolution Adding a Civil Penalty for the
Misuse of Disabled Placard Parking Citation under
California Vehicle Code Section 22511.56 to the City’s
Civil Penalty Bail Schedule for Parking Violations; and
Rescinding Resolution 2010-R083
Dave Tankenson, Police Captain, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the current parking enforcement situation; what
enforcement efforts would be made; clarification that the
resolution allows parking enforcement and community service
officers to take action and issue a citation without having
to call in a sworn officer from the field; what portion of
the fine goes to the City; maximum fines for misdemeanors;
the League of California Cities’ pursuit of accurate
recovery costs; fines adjusted by judges; the portion of
the monies allocated to cities; and criteria to determine
the violation.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPT A RESOLUTION ADDING A CIVIL PENALTY FOR THE MISUSE OF
A DISABLED PLACARD PARKING CITATION UNDER CALIFORNIA
VEHICLE CODE SECTION 22511.56 TO THE CITY’S CIVIL PENALTY
BAIL SCHEDULE FOR PARKING VIOLATIONS, AND RESCINDING
RESOLUTION 2010-R083.
o0o
Item A-5
(1) Introduction of an Ordinance to Amend Culver City
Municipal Code Section 7.03.525 Regarding the Prohibition
of Parking at Expired or Inoperable Parking Meters, and (2)
Approval of the Use of Adhesive Stickers on City Parking
Meters to Give Notice That Parking at an Inoperable Meter
is Prohibited September 24, 2012
11
John Nachbar, City Manager, requested that the item be
postponed to a future meeting to allow time for the Police
Department to conduct additional review and analysis.
The City Council concurred with the request and took no action
on this item at this time.
o0o
Item A-6
Introduction of an Ordinance Adding a Subchapter Entitled
“Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone” to Chapter 9.02 of
Title 9 of the Culver City Municipal Code to Designate
Certain Properties in the Culver Crest Area a Very High
Fire Hazard Severity Zone Based on the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection’s
Recommendations
Mike Bowden, Culver City Fire Marshal, provided a summary
of the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding CalFire criteria to determine Fire Hazard
Severity Zones; what constitutes fuel; topography; impacts
to property owners; whether the designation has anything to
do with the nearby oil drilling operations; costs to the
property owner; clarification that the action is a state
mandate; insurance costs; average costs to homeowners to
clear brush; and brush clearance for wells.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE ADDING A SUBCHAPTER ENTITLED VERY
HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES TO CHAPTER 9.02 OF TITLE 9
OF THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, TO DESIGNATE CERTAIN
PROPERTIES IN THE CULVER CREST AREA A VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD
SEVERITY ZONE (VHFHSZ) BASED ON THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT
OF FORESTRY AND FIRE PROTECTION’S RECOMMENDATIONS, AND
WAIVE FURTHER READING.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued) September 24, 2012
12
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Sahli-Wells
• Noted previous requests for City Council support for
Ballot Initiative 37 and asked about City Council
policy regarding support for ballot measures with
local concerns
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding support for discussion of measures with City
impacts; policy regarding legislative agenda; past
practices; and City Council discretion.
The City Council concurred and directed the City Manager to
place a general policy discussion on a future City Council
agenda for full discussion by the City Council prior to the
Novemeber 5, 2012 election.
• Discussed the Coalition for Smoke Free Living and
requested an agendized discussion on creating policy
for an ordinance for multi-family housing
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding whether there is an existing subcommittee to vet
the issues before the item comes to the City Council;
information provided by the Coalition; actions by previous
City Councils.
The City Council agreed that staff provide additional
information on this subject and the City Council could
direct the City Manager at a future City Council meeting to
place the issue on a future agenda after having reviewed
the materials.
Items from Vice Mayor Cooper September 24, 2012
13
• Discussed the possibility of naming a City building
after Albert and Ursula Vera; reported on
conversations with the Vera family; and requested
agendizing a discussion of renaming Bush Way to Vera
Way
A discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the City policy for naming.
The City Council concurred to consider this item at a
future City Council meeting in accordance with existing
City Council policy on the subject.
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Asked about the scheduled meeting for the Committee on
Homelessness
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:08 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, October 1, 2012
at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
City of Culver City,
California
September 24, 2012
14
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE October 1, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 7:00 p.m.
CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 7:01
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mim Shapiro.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
None.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN
THIS MEETING IS ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY
OF RICHARD HEINEMAN, JIM MCDEMUS AND BOB WASSETHEUR.
o0o
Presentations October 1, 2012
2
Item P-1
Presentation of a Proclamation Designating October 3, 2012
as Walk to School Day
Councilmember Sahli-Wells presented the proclamation.
Representatives announced locations where students, parents
and staff would be meeting for International Walk to School
Day on October 3.
Councilmember O’Leary asked residents to be careful of
students walking to school and to be sensitive to planned
activities for that day.
o0o
The following item was considered out of order.
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND
FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Sahli-Wells reported on a community meeting by
the Green Space Advisory Committee on September 27; attending
the Build-a-thon at Sony Studios for Habitat for Humanity for
units going in on Globe Avenue; she discussed the unveiling of
the Rainbow sculpture; reported that IndieCade would take place
October 5-7; and she announced CycLAvia on October 7 happening
all around Los Angeles.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Comment [mrc1]: May need to delete
this. October 1, 2012
3
Barbara Honig, Culver City Sister Cities Committee,
reported that December 2012 marked the 50
th
anniversary of
the formation of the Culver City Sister City Committee; she
discussed activities to honor the cities with a two-part
program on January 12; and she asked that the City co-
sponsor the event.
Mayor Weissman requested a letter detailing the request for
sponsorship and he indicated that once the information was
received, the City Council could agendize the issue for
discussion.
David VonCannon announced a community meeting to discuss
Measure Y at the King Fahad Mosque open to all residents on
October 2, and a meeting at the Four-Square Church on
October 9 on the formation of a Tellefson Park Community
Watch committee.
Lynne Bronstein announced the publication of a new book
called Alternate Lanes covering alternative methods of
transportation in Los Angeles.
Dr. Tom Williams reported issues with the Division of Oil,
Gas and Geothermal Resources and indicated that the Sierra
Club and Natural Resources Defense Council were available
to help come up with a model ordinance to address the
issues.
May Frances invited everyone to attend IndieCade from
October 5-7.
Cary Anderson discussed parking issues connected to the
4043 Irving Place project.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding parking conditions connected with the 4043
project; strengthening language; mandating conditions of
approval; discussions between staff and the developer;
creating parking districts, district-wide parking
standards, and uniform parking restrictions; and a
suggestion was made to have the contractor talk to his
employees.
o0o
Consent Calendar
October 1, 2012
4
Item C-1
Adoption of an Ordinance Adding a Subchapter entitled Very
High Fire Hazard Severity Zone to Chapter 9.02 of Title 9
of the Culver City Municipal Code, to Designate Certain
Properties in the Culver Crest Area a Very High Fire Hazard
Zone (VHFHSZ)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Wena Dells expressed surprise at receiving a letter
indicating her house is in an area that is now considered a
VHFHSZ; she discussed the history of fires in the area; and
she expressed support for building requirements indicated
in the letter.
Discussion between staff and Councilmembers ensued
regarding the state mandate; field models to predict fire
behavior; flying embers and the ability of a fire to
spread; brush in the neighborhood; homeowner appeals to
CalFire for reevaluation and designation; hazard issues vs.
risk management issues; efforts to make the community
safer; developing the brush area; changes for homeowners
due to the designation; clarification that insurance
companies are not supposed to take the designation into
consideration when assessing insurance rates; the intent to
mitigate a hazard; CalFire survey methods; and
clarification that CalFire evaluates areas all over the
state.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPT AN ORDINANCE ADDING A SUBCHAPTER ENTITLED VERY HIGH
FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES TO CHAPTER 9.02 OF TITLE 9 OF
THE CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, TO DESIGNATE CERTAIN
PROPERTIES IN THE CULVER CREST AREA A VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD
ZONE (VHFHSZ).
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
October 1, 2012
5
Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of the Creation of a Citizens Committee on
the Subject of Fracking
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, provided a
summary of the material of record
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Rebecca Rona Tuttle requested support for the establishment
of the Committee and she discussed hydraulic fracking and
associated issues.
Khin Khin Gee, Culver Crest Neighborhood Association,
expressed support for the establishment of a committee;
discussed residents with expertise in legal research and
medicine already working to inform each other about risks
associated with fracking; and discussed affects to the
health of residents.
Rebecca Hailey expressed support for the formation of a
committee; she requested that all committee members
disclose any affiliations with groups with interests in oil
drilling; and she felt a committee could help provide
clarity with decision-making.
Stephen Murray, Baldwin Hills Oil Watch, felt that the
scope of the committee appeared to be too limited and that
the water injection walls should be addressed; discussed
potential radioactive material displaced with regular oil
operations; the oil and gas code; addressing the sources of
the activity demand; suggested establishing a committee for
all heavy industry activities as well as a sustainability
committee; and he felt other oil operation activities
should be included for committee consideration.
Deborah Antoinese discussed the Viking Hikings; New York
Governor Cuomo’s decision to hold off on fracking due to
health impacts; either approving fracking or banning it;
and she expressed support for the formation of a committee.
October 1, 2012
6
Mim Shapiro discussed her experiences in Blair Hills;
fracking; she expressed support for the formation of the
Committee; and offered to serve.
Dr. Tom Williams, The Sierra Club, offered assistance;
discussed the Ross Dress for Less explosion; the St. James
Oil Company; the Air Quality Management District
presentation on October 5; the importance of protecting
residents; and he expressed support for the committee.
Paul Ferrazzi, Citizens Coalition for a Safe Community,
discussed the northwest extension of the PXP plan; plans to
drill under Ballona Creek; horizontally drilled wells; the
Environmental Impact Report; plans to drill 100 wells by
2028; reserves under Culver City; wells under residential
homes; the scope of the resolution; oil and gas extraction
ordinances; and he volunteered to serve on the committee.
Gary Silbiger expressed support for establishing a
committee to discuss all oil issues rather than just
fracking issues.
Dr. Suzanne De Benedittis echoed the comments of previous
speakers; volunteered to serve on the committee; discussed
health issues; work already being done by citizen groups;
she felt that the committee would give the work of the
citizen volunteers more clout; and she discussed Mark
Ridley Thomas’ Empowerment Councils.
Goren Ericksson noted that fracking was one technology
among many being used; he opposed formation of a fracking
committee; he felt that fracking was an issue best left to
City Council consideration; he did not want another layer
between residents and the City Council; he felt the focus
of a fracking committee was too narrow; and he questioned
the value of a committee comprised of people with the same
viewpoint.
Barry Silver expressed support for the formation of the
committee; felt a committee could assist the City Council
in obtaining key information; and he offered to serve on
the committee.
Jane Brockman expressed support for the formation of the
committee.
October 1, 2012
7
Michelle Weiner, Transition Culver City, expressed support
for the committee and for the expansion of the purview of
the committee.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff
regarding whether expanding the purview of the committee
would require re-agendizing the item; appreciation to all
who came out to speak; the proposed oil drilling ordinance;
the need for awareness of existing legislation; staff cuts
and the current workload; information helpful to the City;
the committee as a public forum; community outreach; public
interest on the issue; expanding the topic; oil drilling
vs. fracking; clarification that hydraulic fracturing is
not the same as fracking; concern with the purpose of the
committee; creating a fair and unbiased committee; the
number of committee members; Brown Act requirements;
meeting format; differences between the committee and
groups like the Democratic Club or the Chamber of Commerce;
concern with structure and restrictions; creation of an
advisory committee; concern that only the two
Councilmembers on the committee would receive information
from the public; concern that information received would be
filtered; the three minute speaking limit; clarification
that at present there is a two-member ad hoc committee; the
ability of the public to speak at committee meetings vs. at
City Council meetings; the committee as more active and
participatory; whether committee members would have to file
financial disclosure forms; choosing who can serve on the
committee; maintaining the status quo; clarification that
the Dog Park group was not a City committee; the work of
the City and consultants; whether a citizens committee
would improve the quality or nature of the discussion; the
spirit of the Brown Act; acknowledgement of legal
considerations; addressing issues as a community;
consultants and costs to the City; a belief that those
interested in serving know about the Brown Act;
establishing a committee outside of the City umbrella; the
ability to communicate with the City Council; a feeling
that now is not the time for a committee; the ultimate test
of transparency and openness; wordsmithing of the
ordinance; a feeling that the issue is too important and
that Councilmembers, consultants and the legal team need to
see all the information; having an advisory group to the ad
hoc subcommittee; and public notification.
Paul Ferrazzi requested information on the maximum file
size capability for City Councilmember email systems. October 1, 2012
8
Dr. Suzanne De Benedittis discussed neighborhood councils
in Los Angeles which would have obviated concerns raised by
City Councilmembers, and she hoped that the City Council
would rethink and revisit the issue as expert witnesses
would be more agreeable to participate in a City sanctioned
committee.
Councilmember Clarke reported that the neighborhood
councils in Los Angeles required members to file financial
disclosure forms.
The City Council took no action on this item.
o0o
Item A-2
Discussion about City Council Positions on Ballot Measures
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Goren Ericksson felt that a City should be very restrictive
with taking stands on propositions, and that positions taken
should be limited to propositions that have a direct impact on
the City and its operation vs. effects on citizens.
Councilmember Clarke suggested that the City Council take a
position on ballot propositions that have a direct impact on
the City Council’s subject matter jurisdiction; he proposed
that such positions would require a super majority vote by the
City Council; he suggested that for all other valid
propositions, time could be set aside for individual
Councilmembers to make individual statements of support or
opposition; he suggested that consideration of official City
positions could be agendized with enough time prior to the
election for careful consideration but not before positions
have been certified and published; and he felt that no
official City funds or resources should be used in promoting
City positions.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
determining direct impacts; subject matter jurisdiction;
municipal affairs; the process; concern with taking away the October 1, 2012
9
ability to make an exception; issues affecting the civil
rights of residents; concern with politically divisive
propositions; work of the League of California cities;
endorsement of items as individual Councilmembers; the GMO
labeling initiative; actions of other City Councils and other
city officials that have taken positions; Measure Y;
maintaining a local focus; a suggestion to have staff bring
forward a list of propositions that could affect the City;
holding a Proposition night; staff suggestions for criteria to
assist the City Council; the guidelines proposed by
Councilmember Clarke; concern with taking time from local
issues to consider Propositions; Proposition 30; concern with
compromising Measure Y by expressing support for Proposition
30; agreement that Councilmembers would bring forth
propositions that they would like agendized for discussion;
and concern that the position of Councilmember could become
political.
The City Council took no action on this item.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Paul Ferrazzi announced the annual PXP community meeting on
October 15 at Knox Presbyterian Church, and he indicated that
PXP would be posting the hydraulic fracturing study on their
website on October 10, noting that many environmental non-
profits would work to analyze the report and make comment.
o0o
Items from the Staff
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, reported that staff would submit
comments on October 10 regarding the draft EIR for the LAX
Specific Plan Advisory Committee, and she indicated that a link
to the draft EIR would be posted on October 2.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding a
request that the three Culver City delegates be kept advised on
the item; whether the item would come before the City Council;
and the complexity of the EIR. October 1, 2012
10
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Asked about comments on the PXP Oil Drilling plan
Items from Vice Mayor Cooper
• Reported attending a meeting of the Westside Council
of Governments where he requested support for a ban on
fracking
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:48 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting in memory of Richard Heineman, Jim
McDemus and Bob Wassetheur to a meeting on Monday, October 8,
2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
City of Culver City, California
October 1, 2012
11
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE October 8, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 5:30 p.m.
CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 5:30
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:30 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Re: City of El Segundo, et al. v. City of Los Angeles, et al.
Case No. RIC 426822
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
CS-2 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b)(1)
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation – 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c)
CS-4 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9480 Culver Boulevard (Town Plaza)
City Negotiator: John Nachbar, City Manager; Martin R. Cole,
Assistant City Manager
Other Parties Negotiators: Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition October 8, 2012
2
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms of Payment
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
CS-5 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9070 Venice Boulevard (Media Park)
Agency Negotiator: John Nachbar, City Manager; Martin R. Cole,
Assistant City Manager
Other Parties Negotiators: Share Our Strength
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms of Payment
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:02 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Weissman 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 Robert Montgomery.
o0o
Presentations
Item P-2
(Out of Sequence)
A Commendation to Dave Rabb Children’s Fitness Center in
Recognition of their Contributions to the Disabled Community
in Culver City
Vice Mayor Cooper presented the commendation.
o0o
October 8, 2012
3
Item P-1
A Proclamation Designating October as Disability Awareness
Month
Councilmember O’Leary presented the proclamation.
Dr. Jay Sherry expressed gratitude for the proclamation and
announced upcoming events in recognition of Disability
Awareness Month.
o0o
Item P-3
A Commendation to Mayra Fornos for her Contributions to the
Disabled Community in Culver City
Mayor Weissman presented the commendation.
Mayra Fornos thanked the City for the honor.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Clarke thanked Captain Tankenson for quickly
addressing the issue of oversized trucks parking on Hannum
Avenue in Fox Hills, and he announced the creation of a
community calendar at americantowns.com/ca/culvercity that can
be reached from a link on the Culver City website.
Vice Mayor Cooper thanked Stephanie Barish for another
successful IndieCade event in downtown Culver City.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells reported attending CycLAvia on
October 7; she announced groundbreaking for The Help Group on
October 11 and the Culver City Cultural Affairs Foundation
fundraiser on October 12; she reported that PXP would release
their fracking study online on October 10 with a presentation
about it on October 15 at the Knox Presbyterian Church; and she
announced the Culver City Education Foundation fundraiser on
October 20.
Mayor Weissman announced the Community Walk regarding Measure Y
on October 13 starting in Veterans Park. October 8, 2012
4
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, announced that
sample ballots were now available for the upcoming election on
November 6; he indicated that information about the election
and Measure Y were available on the City website; and he
clarified that the last day to register to vote and/or file for
an absentee ballot is October 22 with additional information
available through the City website.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
David VonCannon announced an organizational meeting for the
Tellefson Neighborhood Association on October 9 at Quest
Church.
Councilmember Clarke noted that information for all of the
previously mentioned events could be found on the community
calendar.
Rebecca Rona invited everyone to attend a presentation by
PXP at Knox Presbyterian Church on October 15 regarding the
release of the findings of the long awaited fracking study;
she discussed fracking and expressed hope that the City
would eventually ban it; she expressed concern that the
study was not conducted by an impartial party; and she
indicated that the study would be released on PXP’s website
on October 10.
Karlo Silbiger, Culver City School Board, addressed concerns
raised at the previous City Council meeting regarding
establishing a fracking committee; he discussed the benefits
of such a committee; and expressed support for the creation
of a fracking committee.
Rich Waters discussed a fungus spreading through the ficus
trees in the City and he expressed concern regarding delays
to an ordinance coming before the City Council regarding
removal of the diseased trees.
October 8, 2012
5
John Nachbar, City Manager, indicated that he would
investigate the matter and contact Mr. Waters with
additional information.
Rick Tuttle invited everyone to attend the PXP presentation
at Knox Presbyterian Church on October 15; he reported that
Governor Cuomo of New York had pulled back from his decision
to encourage fracking; and he discussed drilling induced
earthquakes.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, 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 COOPER
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CASH
DISBURSEMENTS FOR SEPTEMBER 15, 2012 – SEPTEMBER 28, 2012.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-3, C-5 AND C-6.
Item C-3
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Approval of a Standard Offer, Agreement and Escrow
Instructions for the Purchase of Real Estate for the Property
Located at 5718-5722 Bankfield Avenue for a Purchase Price October 8, 2012
6
of $1.4 Million; and (2) Approval of a Budget Amendment
Related Thereto
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A STANDARD OFFER, AGREEMENT AND ESCROW
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF REAL ESTATE FOR THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5718-5722 BANKFIELD AVENUE FOR A
PURCHASE PRICE OF $1.4 MILLION; 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; AND,
4. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING $250,000 FROM
THE SANITATION ENTERPRISE FUND AND $1,160,000 FROM THE SEWER
ENTERPRISE FUND FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY.
o0o
Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment Agreement
with XO Communications for Use of the Public Right-of-Way
Along Adams Boulevard, Washington Boulevard and La Cienega
Boulevard
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT
WITH XO COMMUNICATIONS; 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
October 8, 2012
7
Item C-6
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment Agreement
with Time Warner Cable for Use of the Public Rights-of-Way
on Green Valley Circle
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT
WITH TIME WARNER CABLE FOR USE OF THE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY
ON GREEN VALLEY CIRCLE; AND,
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)
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with
California Claims Management Services (CCMS) to Provide
Workers Compensation Administration Services
Councilmember Sahli-Wells received clarification regarding
fiscal advantages to using outside firms to settle workers
compensation claims rather than in-house legal staff;
measures put in place to reduce workplace injuries; the
average number of claims; length of time to settle claims;
and tracking the amount of claims filed and money allotted
to the company processing the claims.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CALIFORNIA
CLAIMS MANAGEMENT SERVICES TO CONTINUE TO PROVIDE WORKERS
COMPENSATION ADMINISTRATION SERVICES FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED
AMOUNT OF $288,000 PER YEAR FOR EACH YEAR OF THE AGREEMENT;
AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
October 8, 2012
8
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
Amendment to the Existing Professional Services Agreement
with Haynes Building Services to Continue Providing Citywide
Janitorial Services
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Rich Waters discussed usage of tables at the Senior Center;
supervision; the contract; and donated tables.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
responsibility for care of tables during set up and take
down; direction to the contractors and their responsiveness;
clarification that there are signs of significant wear on
the tables but they do not pose any danger; the Haynes
tables; the new tables; outdated tables; and the weight of
various tables.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH HAYNES BUILDING SERVICES TO PROVIDE
CITYWIDE JANITORIAL SERVICES IN THE AMOUNT OF $522,692.40,
PLUS THE COST TO PROVIDE EVENT SERVICE WORKERS AT $17.41/
HOUR, FOR THE INITIAL THREE YEARS OF THE PROPOSED AGREEMENT;
AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE EXTENSION OF THE AGREEMENT FOR AN
ADDITIONAL TWO YEARS AT THE DISCRETION OF THE DIRECTOR OF
PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER AND THE DIRECTOR OF PARKS,
RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES AT AN AGREED UPON AMOUNT
BASED ON THE CONSUMER PRICE INDEX; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND
October 8, 2012
9
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-4
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional
Services Agreement with Barry Kurtz to Support the Traffic
Engineering Section of the Public Works Department
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding the
City policy with respect to expansion of an existing
project.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
what is considered within the traffic study; disagreements
between the Planning Commission and the City; the municipal
ordinance; project analysis; impact of the project; findings
required under the Conditional Use Permit; consideration of
the entire project rather than incremental increases;
clarification that the item under consideration is the
traffic consultant contract rather than policies for traffic
studies; defining projects; and existing conditions and
related projects.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BARRY KURTZ TO PROVIDE PART-TIME
SUPPORT FOR THE TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SECTION ON PUBLIC AND
PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS, WITH AN AGGREGATE NOT-TO-
EXCEED AMOUNT OF $47,000; 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
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made. October 8, 2012
10
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of Appointment of a New Commissioner to the
Cultural Affairs Commission
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, provided a
summary of the material of record.
John B. Williams indicated a willingness to serve on the
Commission and he discussed his experience and qualifications.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
APPOINT JOHN B. WILLIAMS TO FILL SEAT NUMBER TWO ON THE
CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION FOR THE PERIOD OF NOVEMBER 1,
2012 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2013.
o0o
Item A-2
(1) Consideration of the Formation of a Finance Advisory
Committee and (2) Adoption of a Resolution Establishing Such
Committee and Approving Its Bylaws
Jeff Muir, Chief Financial Officer, presented the material of
record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the experiences of other cities.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Crystal Alexander discussed the City’s public finance advisory
committee in the 1980s; the track record of the City; the
utility users tax; the hotel tax; the proposed sales tax
increase; success of the committee; the basic bylaws;
Councilmember intent; duties of the committee; and she
suggested study items for the City’s outside auditors as well
as adding an item to include other topics determined by the
City Council to add flexibility. October 8, 2012
11
David VonCannon expressed concern with education and background
requirements to serve on the committee; impacts to staff time;
outcome vs. effort; time required for volunteers who would
serve; and he suggested rethinking whether the committee should
be formed.
Stephen Murray discussed what he felt the function of the
committee should be.
Steve Reitzfeldt reported requesting the committee for the past
ten years; discussed volunteering in the City; the requested
qualifications; and he wanted to see the focus of the committee
broadened to allow flexibility in the mission of the committee.
Gary Silbiger suggested changes to the staff report; discussed
successful resident based committees; the composition of and
number of members on the committee; the selection process;
duties of the committee; required expertise; he noted that
Councilmembers were rarely members of such committees but could
be non-voting members and act as liaisons to the committee; and
he felt the proposal was top heavy with business
representatives.
Seth Horowitz, The Culver Hotel, discussed the demise of the
redevelopment agency and management of incoming taxes, and he
suggested areas for the committee to focus on.
Goran Eriksson, Culver City Chamber of Commerce, noted that an
integral part of support for Measure Y was the establishment of
the Financial Advisory Committee; he expressed concern with the
effectiveness of the committee with such a narrow focus;
encouraged the City Council to expand the function of the
committee; discussed the active nature of members of the
Chamber; and expressed support for the establishment of the
committee.
Karlo Silbiger thanked those who encouraged the establishment
of the committee; noted that establishment of the committee was
part of the language of the School Board approval of Measure Y;
he discussed the School District Budget Advisory Committee; the
importance of giving direction to the committee; scope of work
for the committee; and he expressed concern with having
Councilmembers serve on the committee as he felt that would
give them too much authority.
October 8, 2012
12
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
transparency; the message that money raised by Measure Y would
be spent responsibly; building confidence and communication in
the community; the budget process; adding to the duties
suggested in the report; addressing the issue of economic
development; outreach and education; the bylaws; the labor
representative; separation between departments and the
committee; best practices; ways that Los Angeles County has
worked to save money; flexibility with the number of committee
members; concerns with staff time; the importance of the
committee; the number of qualified applicants; resident support
of Measure Y; Measure Y revenues and expenses; balance between
business and residents in the membership; dissolution of the
Treasurer’s Investment Subcommittee; the current Economic
Development subcommittee; the focus on Measure Y in the
creation of the committee; economic impacts to Culver City
should Measure Y not pass; the most business-friendly cities in
the region; and getting committee members up to speed.
Responding to inquiry from Vice Mayor Cooper, Crystal Alexander
provided information regarding the previous Financial Advisory
Committee.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the purpose of the previous Financial Advisory
Committee; whether Councilmembers should serve on the
committee; representatives from management groups; reinforcing
the credibility of the City; formation of the committee and
staffing; scope of duties and responsibility; the importance of
a free flow of ideas; staff time necessary to support the
committee; providing an avenue of appeal for the committee
through the City Council; providing necessary information to
the committee to fulfill their functions; the importance of
regular meetings; the number of members and composition of the
committee; qualifications and training; structuring the
committee; the ability of any member of the public to ask staff
any question they like; establishing a system for providing
information to the committee; focusing on Measure Y; whether a
school district representative should be included; maintaining
the focus of the committee; assessing how Measure Y is
performing; measuring the productivity of the committee;
creating a specific focus; how long it will take for Measure Y
money to come in; work of the committee before money comes in;
whether the committee should formulate their charge and
direction; understanding the dynamic of the City; whether to
broaden the focus of the committee or keep it specific to
Measure Y; adding or removing duties and responsibilities as October 8, 2012
13
circumstances dictate; resolving the issue of time consuming
requests to staff; consensus of the committee when requesting
staff information; consensus of the City Council that
Councilmembers not serve on the committee; the level of
interest from the public and qualified candidates; specifying
the minimum number of each type of representative on the
committee; and when the item would return to the City Council.
The City Council requested this item return at a future City
Council meeting to provide staff with additional time to
revise the proposed bylaws consistent with tonight’s
discussion.
o0o
Item A-3
Consideration of Comments on the Los Angeles World Airport
Draft Environmental Impact Report for the Specific Plan
Amendment Study Related to Proposed Expansion at Los Angeles
International Airport (LAX)
Councilmember Clarke indicated a need to recuse himself from
the item and he exited the dais.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, provided a summary of the material
of record.
Barbara Lichtman, City Special Counsel, provided a summary of
comments relative to the concerns of Culver City.
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Attorney/City Clerk, indicated that
June Lehrman had submitted a card but was no longer present and
she had also submitted an e-mail that had been received and
filed as part of the item.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
comments provided to the draft EIR; the state mandate to reduce
greenhouse emissions; proximity of Culver City to the airport;
noise, overflight and air quality; altitude of the aircraft;
concern with the capacity enhancing potential and impacts; and
appreciation that the City can submit comments under the
California Environmental Quality Act.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER October 8, 2012
14
SAHLI-WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY
AND CITY SPECIAL COUNSEL TO SUBMIT COMMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE
CITY, CONSISTENT WITH THE CITY COUNCIL’S CONCERNS AS EXPRESSED
THIS EVENING. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: COOPER, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSTAIN: CLARKE
Councilmember Clarke returned to the dais.
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Stephen Murray received clarification regarding the website
mentioned earlier in the evening listing Culver City events
(americantowns.com/ca/culvercity).
Discussion ensued regarding the community calendar on the City
website and the belief that the americantowns website provides
more flexibility with listing events.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Requested a way to find information regarding economic
development related to hosting events such as IndieCade
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding a survey
created to measure the impacts of the Car Show on local
business, and a suggestion that as part of granting City
sponsorships, each event conduct an exit survey with data to
be shared with the City.
• Encouraged people to visit the community calendar site
americantowns.com/ca/culvercity
Items from Councilmember Sahli-Wells October 8, 2012
15
• Received an update on the status of the Clean Air
Resolution
Assistant City Manager/City Clerk Martin Cole responded
the item was scheduled for City Council consideration
on October 22, 2012.
• Questioned the time frame for the plastic bag ban
Items from Mayor Weissman
• Discussed a new 100% recyclable plastic bag
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:13 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, October
22, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council, City of Culver City,
California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE October 22, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 5:00 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 5:00
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember
Meghan Sahli-Wells, 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 Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9300 and 9400 Culver Blvd. and 9099 Washington Blvd.
City Negotiators: John M. Nachbar, City Manager; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director and Murray Kane,
City Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: The Culver Hotel/Century Wilshire
Inc.
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
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 10808 Culver Boulevard (Former Armory Site)
City Negotiators: City Manager John Nachbar, Assistant City
Manager Martin Cole
Other Parties’ Negotiators: The Wende Museum
Under Negotiation: Both Terms and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 October 22, 2012
2
CS-3 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 5640 Sepulveda Blvd.
City Negotiator: John M. Nachbar, City Manager; Sol
Blumenfeld, Community Development Director; Todd Tipton,
Economic Development Administrator; and Murray Kane, City
Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: CFT Development LLC, BevMo!
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:03 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Weissman 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 Barbara Honig.
o0o
Presentations
Item P-1
Tatsuo Fujiwara, Mayor of Kaizuka, Japan and the Culver City
Sister City Committee
Marla Wolkowitz, Culver City Sister City Committee,
introduced Chair Kathleen McCann.
Kathleen McCann discussed the Japanese earthquake and
tsunami in March 2011 and resulting damages; support October 22, 2012
3
provided by Culver City; and a grant provided by Kaiser
Permanente Benefits Group to help with recovery and relief.
Tatsuo Fujiwara, Mayor of Kaizuka, speaking through an
interpreter, thanked the City Council for their support;
expressed appreciation for the partnership between the
cities; discussed risk management and emergency
preparedness; damage from the earthquake and tsunami; and
recovery efforts.
Mayor Weissman thanked those who assisted in the
fundraising and Kaiser for the grant; he presented a
certificate of appreciation to Mayor Fujiwara and a City
Seal to Mayor Fujiwara and to Mr. Matsutami; he received
framed artwork on behalf of the City; and he invited Sister
City members to participate in a group photo.
Marla Wolkowitz, Culver City Sister City Committee,
announced a dinner to recognize the Mayor Fujiwara and his
associate; she discussed money raised by Culver City; West
City Unity Church; Jane Leonard; Essential Chocolate; and
the City’s response.
Additional discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the
speakers regarding the status of recovery efforts.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells recognized the work of the Public
Works Department and discussed participation of the Culver
City Bicycle Coalition.
Recipients thanked the City for the honor.
o0o
Item P-2
Certificates of Recognition to the Participants in the 2012
Culver City Coastal Cleanup Day
Councilmembers presented certificates of recognition to
participants in the 2012 Culver City Coastal Cleanup Day.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
October 22, 2012
4
John Nachbar, City Manager, discussed a recent disaster
preparedness drill.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
October 22 was the last day to register to vote.
Councilmember Clarke discussed the recent meeting of the
community standards district; the meeting regarding the
fracking study; the recent Culver City Historical Society
meeting; and the Sip for Schools benefit for Culver City
Schools.
Councilmember O’Leary discussed Neighbors for Smart Rail
who object to Phase 2 of the Exposition Light Rail
continuing into Santa Monica.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells reported the 40
th
anniversary of
the Clean Water Act noting that fracking was exempted from
the Clean Water Act; thanked Parks, Recreation and
Community Services Commissioners and staff for the Parks
Tour she attended on October 14; and she discussed grants
to improve the parks.
Mayor Weissman announced performances by Culver City
Performing Arts grant recipients Invertigo Dance Theatre on
October 28 at Brasil Brasil Dance Center, and needtheater
on October 23-24 at the Ivy Substation.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Judith Martin Straw discussed walking to school vs. driving
to school; senior volunteers; and the Safe Routes to School
grant.
Steven Rose announced a special screening of the new James
Bond movie at the Sony Studios Cary Grant Theatre on
November 14.
October 22, 2012
5
Matthew Hetz expressed support for the Expo Line, and
announced a concert by the Culver City Symphony Orchestra
on November 16 at Veterans Auditorium.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Mr. Hetz
regarding clarification that children were welcome to
attend the concert and an upcoming Culver City Symphony
Orchestra fundraiser on October 27 at Room and Board.
Stephen Murray shared information on Proposition 37 and
expressed support for the measure.
Councilmember O’Leary encouraged interested parties to
attend a meeting of the Baldwin Hills Conservancy on
October 26 with consideration of a resolution authorizing a
grant from Prop 40 funds for trail and pedestrian access
improvements along Hetzler Road at the Baldwin Hills Scenic
Overlook.
Mayor Weissman clarified that the Gateway dedication would
be after the meeting on October 26.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER
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 O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR SEPTEMBER 29, 2012 – OCTOBER
12, 2012.
o0o
Consent Calendar October 22, 2012
6
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-2 AND C-4.
Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by FS Construction
Company; (2) Authorization to File a Notice of Completion;
(3) Authorization to Release the Retention Payment after
the Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period; for the Robertson
Boulevard Pedestrian/Transit Connection Improvements
Project, P-943
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, FS
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, FOR THE ROBERTSON BOULEVARD
PEDESTRIAN/TRANSIT CONNECTION IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, P-943;
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;
3) AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF RETENTION FUNDS TO FS
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY IN THE AMOUNT OF $10,730 UPON
EXPIRATION OF THE THIRTY-FIVE DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-4
(Out of Sequence)
1) Acceptance of Work Performed by CelPlan Inc., for the
Jail Surveillance System Upgrade Project in the Police
Department; 2) Authorization to File Notice of Completion
of the Project; and 3) Authorization to Release Retention
Funds after the Expiration of the 35-day Lien Period
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY CELPLAN, INC. FOR THE JAIL
SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM UPGRADE IN THE POLICE DEPARTMENT; AND,
October 22, 2012
7
2. AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF OF POLICE TO EXECUTE THE NOTICE OF
COMPLETION AND SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
RECORDER’S OFFICE; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF $6,464.24 IN RETENTION FUNDS TO
CELPLAN, INC. FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE 35-DAY LIEN
PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-1
(Out of Sequence)
1) Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Application for
Grant Funds from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and
Open Space District Excess Funds Grant Program in the
Amount of $250,000 for the Syd Kronenthal Park Playground
Rehabilitation Project; and, 2) Approval of a Budget
Amendment to Appropriate the Funding for this Project Upon
Receipt of the Fully Executed Grant Agreement
Councilmember Sahli-Wells thanked those involved for their
work on the grants.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE APPLICATION FOR GRANT
FUNDS FROM THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGIONAL PARK AND OPEN
SPACE DISTRICT EXCESS FUNDS GRANT PROGRAM IN THE AMOUNT OF
$250,000 FOR THE SYD KRONENTHAL PARK PLAYGROUND
REHABILITATION PROJECT; AND,
2. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO APPROPRIATE THE FUNDING
FOR THIS PROJECT UPON RECEIPT OF THE FULLY EXECUTED GRANT
AGREEMENT.
o0o
Item C-3
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by ACCO Engineered
Systems; (2) Authorization to File a Notice of Completion;
and (3) Authorization to Release the Retention Payment
after Expiration of the 35-day Lien Period for the Veterans
Memorial West Wing HVAC Replacement Project, P-132 October 22, 2012
8
Councilmember Sahli-Wells discussed the new system vs. the
old system; feedback from staff and patrons; and the west
wing.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, ACCO
ENGINEERED SYSTEMS, FOR THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL BUILDING
WEST WING HVAC PROJECT, P-132; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
EXECUTE THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS
ANGELES RECORDER’S OFFICE FOR RECORDATION; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF $7,671.73 IN RETENTION FUNDS TO
ACCO ENGINEERED SYSTEMS FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE 35-
DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of the Concept of Participating in a Westside
Cities Council of Government Bike Share Program, Including
Allowing Sponsorship in the Public Right-of-Way
Helen Kerstein, Management Analyst, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the regional approach vs. policies of individual
cities; sponsorship; City boundaries and the importance of
doing the program as a region; efforts to come up with a
compatible system; Los Angeles; competition and
compatibility; participating as part of the Westside
Council of Governments; actions of other area cities;
sponsorships; the billboard ordinance; advertising; October 22, 2012
9
ensuring that the ads pay for bike infrastructure; the
regional nature of the issue; identifying areas where
signage is appropriate; bringing the sign ordinance back
for discussion purposes; the public right-of-way; capital
costs; ongoing operating and maintenance costs;
sponsorships; positive feedback from residents; being ready
when the Council of Governments is ready to move forward;
classifying the kiosk as a bus stop use; creation of a
shuttle; participation zones; bus stop advertising; concern
with having to allow billboards in the right-of-way; first
amendment issues; bus transportation; signage; Bike Nation;
single vs. multiple sponsorships.
The City Council directed staff to investigate the
billboard ordinance, single sponsorship with consideration
of other advertising options, and to pursue conversation
with the Westside Council of Governments on a regional
approach.
o0o
Item A-2
Consideration of a Resolution in Support of Reducing
Greenhouse Gas Pollution Under the Clean Air Act
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Goren Eriksson expressed support for the environment;
referenced a previous discussion by the City Council
indicating that the City Council would only take positions
that directly impact the City and operations; he discussed
subject matter jurisdiction; and the primary responsibility
and focus of the City Council.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff
regarding resolutions vs. propositions; legislative policy;
support for becoming a Clean Air city; actions of other
cities; past practices; and reaffirming what is currently
done in Culver City.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
October 22, 2012
10
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF REDUCING GREENHOUSE GAS
POLLUTION UNDER THE CLEAN AIR ACT; AND,
2. DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO SEND A COPY OF THIS
RESOLUTION TO ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY ADMINISTRATOR
LISA P. JACKSON AND PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA.
o0o
Item A-3
(1) Consideration of the Formation of a Finance Advisory
Committee and (2) Adoption of a Resolution Establishing
Such Committee and Approving Its Bylaws
Mayor Weissman invited public comments.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Goren Eriksson, Chamber of Commerce, expressed appreciation
to staff for expediting the matter.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read a
comment submitted by:
Paul Ehrlich
Councilmember Clarke proposed an amendment regarding
selection of committee members and rotating members each
year.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding the length of the suggested rotation; allowing
the associations to select the individual with City Council
ratification; the number of people serving on the
committee; success of the Advisory Committee on
Redevelopment; allowing flexibility; establishing a quorum;
staff time; approved tasks and duties; labor and
departmental representatives; the level of public interest
in participating; bargaining units; the bylaws; appointment
vs. ratification; the process for resident appointments vs.
employee association appointments; and consecutive terms.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL: October 22, 2012
11
ADOPT A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE COMMITTEE WITH UP TO
NINE MEMBERS AND APPROVING ITS BYLAWS, WITH THE AMENDMENT
UNDER SECTION 2AC THAT THE CULVER CITY EMPLOYEE
ASSOCIATION, THE FIRE FIGHTER GROUP, POLICE OFFICER
ASSOCIATION, AND THE THREE MANAGEMENT GROUPS ARE
RESPONSIBLE FOR CHOOSING A PERSON TO PUT FORWARD FOR A TWO-
YEAR TERM TO BE RATIFIED BY THE CITY COUNCIL WITH THE
UNDERSTANDING THAT IT IS A ROTATING POSITION WITH EACH
BARGAINING UNIT TO GET A CHANCE TO SERVE.
o0o
Item A-4
Consideration of 1) Financial Assistance for Taste of the
Nation 2013; 2) Designation of the Event as City-Sponsored;
and 3) Approval of a License Agreement with Share Our
Strength Related to the Event
Mayor Weissman invited public comments.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read a
written comment submitted by:
Gary Silbiger
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding parking
and the financial implications of a sponsorship.
Judy Walker, Share Our Strength, discussed parking for
volunteers; attendee parking; valet parking; and
distinguishing between patrons of Trader Joe’s and
attendees.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and the speaker
regarding the availability of Parcel B; alternate plans;
and renting parking at Culver Studios.
Additional discussion ensued between Councilmembers
regarding the food culture in Culver City; support for the
event; designation of an amount for in-kind services; the
IndieCade sponsorship; reduced support; clarification
regarding parking; the number of volunteers needed;
implications to the City and downtown businesses; and October 22, 2012
12
length of time necessary for volunteer parking.
Judy Walker requested guidance from staff regarding parking
issues; questioned when the status of Parcel B would be
known; and she discussed metered parking.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding City Council support for approval of the item
with the removal of references to parking arrangements; the
timeframe for the receipt of information regarding Parcel
B; and actual costs for parking.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DESIGNATE TASTE OF THE NATION AS A CITY-SPONSORED EVENT;
2. APPROVE A LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH SHARE OUR STRENGTH
RELATED TO THE USE OF MEDIA PARK FOR THE EVENT WITH THE
REMOVAL OF REFERENCES TO PARKING ARRANGEMENTS; 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; AND
5. DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO RETURN AT A FUTURE CITY
COUNCIL MEETING WITH ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REGARDING
PARKING AND THE RELATED FEE WAIVERS REQUESTED BY TASTE OF
THE NATION.
o0o
Item A-5
Consideration of: 1) Financial Assistance for the Los
Angeles County Bicycle Coalition’s (LACBC) “Tour de Taste”
Event; 2) Designation of the Event as City-Sponsored; and
3) Approval of a License Agreement with LACBC Related to
the Event
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, provided a
correction to the staff report noting that proceeds of the
event were to go to the Los Angeles County Bicycle
Coalition, not the Culver City Bicycle Coalition as
indicated. October 22, 2012
13
Councilmember Sahli-Wells disclosed that she was a founding
member of the Culver City Bicycle Coalition which is a
local chapter of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition
but does not currently hold a position.
Councilmember Clarke indicated that he was also a member of
the coalition but was not in a leadership position or in a
position to benefit from the event.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DESIGNATE THE TOUR DE TASTE AS A CITY-SPONSORED EVENT
AND DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF IN-KIND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO
PROVIDE FOR THE EVENT TO BE $1,430; AND
2. APPROVE A LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH LACBC FOR USE OF TOWN
PLAZA AND PARCEL B FOR EVENT ACTIVITIES;
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 for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Vice Mayor Cooper
• Thanked Parks, Recreation and Community Development
Department staff, the Senior Center, the Disability
Advisory Committee, The Girl Scouts, and the Exchange
Club for their participation in the Disability
Carnival
October 22, 2012
14
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 9:52 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting to a meeting on Monday, November 12, 2012
at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council, City of Culver City
Culver City, California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California
1
THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE November 12, 2012
CITY COUNCIL, CITY OF CULVER CITY 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
The meeting of the City Council was called to order at 5:30
p.m.
Present: Andrew Weissman, Mayor
Jeffrey Cooper, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Micheál O‘Leary, Councilmember*
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Councilmember
*Councilmember O’Leary exited the meeting at 10:12 p.m.
o0o
Closed Session
At 5:30 p.m., the City Council recessed to Closed Session to
discuss the following items:
CS-1 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 10808 Culver Boulevard
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager; Martin R. Cole,
Assistant City Manager
Other Parties Negotiators: Wende Museum
Under Negotiation: Both Terms and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 700 Corporate Pointe
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager/Executive
Director; Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development
Director/Assistant Executive Director; Todd Tipton, Economic
Development Administrator; Murray Kane, City Special
Counsel/Successor Agency Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: IDS Real Estate Group November 12, 2012
2
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
CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation – (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b)(1)
CS-4 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 9300 Culver Blvd. (Parcel B)
City Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager
Other Parties Negotiators: Popular Press Media Group
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
o0o
Reconvene
The City Council reconvened its meeting at 7:01 p.m. with
all Councilmembers present.
o0o
Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Weissman 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 Gilbert Barela.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THIS MEETING IS
ADJOURNED, THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF GEORGE J.
PAYTON AND LIEUTENANT COLONEL GORDON SCOTT.
o0o
November 12, 2012
3
Presentations
Item P-1
A Proclamation in Honor of Veterans Day 2012
Councilmember Clarke acknowledged Ray Delgado and Glen
Jimenez from AmVets and he presented the proclamation.
Glen Jimenez and Ray Delgado thanked the City for the
honor.
Neil Rubenstein, Jewish War Veterans, thanked the City for
the honor.
o0o
Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Councilmember Clarke announced that the City had been chosen to
receive the 2012 Project of the Year Award for the Southern
California Chapter of the Public Works Association.
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director, expressed
appreciation for the recognition.
Councilmember Clarke announced a free concert to celebrate the
50
th
anniversary of the Culver City Symphony Orchestra on
November 16 at Veterans Auditorium.
Councilmember O’Leary reported enjoying the Civil War
Reenactment in Moorpark and encouraged schools and residents to
attend next year for the 150
th
anniversary.
Vice Mayor Cooper reported that the Boneyard would be closed on
November 13 to allow for the installation of lighting.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells thanked the voters of Culver City for
passing Measure Y to maintain City services; congratulated
Representative Karen Bass and Assemblymember Holly Mitchell on
being re-elected; reported attending a fundraiser for the
Culver City Bicycle Coalition and seeing a presentation on
carbon emissions by Bill McKibbon at UCLA; discussed the
unveiling of a gate across La Cienega at Kenneth Hahn Park;
clarified that a rape on an MTA bus happened just outside of November 12, 2012
4
Culver City not within the City as is being reported; and she
wanted to see violence against women stopped.
o0o
Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Weissman invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
David Voncannon provided an update on unresolved issues
with Tilden Terrace; discussed the Tellefson Park Community
Association meeting; and he expressed appreciation for help
from Todd Tipton and Councilmembers.
Judith Martin-Straw, spoke representing We Tell Stories
expressing appreciation for the continuing support of the
City; she discussed the Front and Center Program at City
elementary schools; and the summer We Tell Stories library
program.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells expressed support for We Tell
Stories.
Rich Waters expressed dismay that the issue of diseased
ficus trees in the City had not been put on the agenda
despite repeated requests; discussed the need for an
ordinance to allow the City to take down diseased trees;
arborist opinions; Schaeffer Avenue; he expressed concern
with the spread of disease; and he asked that Public Works
be allowed to take down the trees.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the time frame for the ordinance; discussion of
the issue by the Sustainability Subcommittee; the
importance of the issue and the need to properly address
it; the hazardous nature of trees that are removed; the
process for replacement trees; expediting the process;
attempts to save the diseased trees; why the ordinance is
necessary; and documenting damage amounts.
Elena Sweda Neff, Vector Control Board, discussed an
increase in dead bird reports; reported that dead birds
would not be collected again until March 2013; Asian Tiger
mosquitos in El Monte; dengue fever epidemics in other November 12, 2012
5
countries; the progress of containment in the area; and she
discussed the Baldwin Hills oil field and proposed fracking
and Vector Control operations there.
o0o
Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
None.
o0o
Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL, HOUSING AUTHORITY AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY
AGENDA ITEM: Cash Disbursements
Councilmember Clarke thanked the Chief Financial Officer for
adding the remarks section to the register.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR OCTOBER 13, 2012 – NOVEMBER 2,
2012.
o0o
Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1, C-5, C-6 AND C-8.
Item C-1
1) Acceptance of a Donation from the Culver City Sister
City, Inc. Committee to Cover Material Costs for the
Installation of a Sister Cities Sign; and 2) Authorization
of the Purchase and Installation of a Sister Cities
Sign and Plaque Near the Corner of Culver Boulevard and
Duquesne Avenue
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
November 12, 2012
6
1. ACCEPT A DONATION FROM CCSCC TO COVER MATERIAL COSTS FOR
THE INSTALLATION OF A SISTER CITIES SIGN; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF A SISTER
CITIES SIGN AND PLAQUE NEAR THE CORNER OF CULVER BOULEVARD
AND DUQUESNE AVENUE.
o0o
Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Encroachment
Agreement with AboveNet, Inc. for Use of the Public Right-
of-Way along Washington Boulevard between Keystone and
Mentone Avenues
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT
WITH ABOVENET FOR THE USE OF THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ALONG
WASHINGTON BOULEVARD BETWEEN KEYSTONE AND MENTONE AVENUES;
AND,
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-6
1) Authorization for the Preparation of a Project Study
Report Equivalent for a Project to Develop Citywide
Synchronized and Optimized Traffic Signal Timing
Plans with Selected Traffic Volume Count Stations and
Approve a Related Budget Amendment, and 2) Authorize the
City Manager to Submit a Grant Application for this Project
to the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation
Authority’s 2013 Call for Projects
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) AUTHORIZE THE PREPARATION OF A PROJECT STUDY REPORT
EQUIVALENT (PSRE) FOR A PROJECT TO DEVELOP CITYWIDE November 12, 2012
7
SYNCHRONIZED AND OPTIMIZED TRAFFIC SIGNAL TIMING PLANS WITH
SELECTED TRAFFIC VOLUME COUNT STATIONS; AND,
2) APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT APPROPRIATING $12,000 IN
PLAYA VISTA DEVELOPER FUNDS TO FUND CONSULTANT PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE PSRE AND METRO CALL FOR
PROJECTS APPLICATION; AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SUBMIT A GRANT APPLICATION
TO THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY METROPOLITAN TRANSPORTATION
AUTHORITY AS PART OF THE 2013 CALL FOR PROJECTS.
o0o
Item C-8
(Out of Sequence)
Amendment to the Existing Professional Services Agreement
with Fleming Environmental Inc. to Continue Providing
Designated UST Operator Services, Environmental Compliance
Testing, and Associated UST and AST Component Repair at
Four (4) City Fuel Sites
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH FLEMING ENVIRONMENTAL TO PROVIDE
DESIGNATED UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANK (UST) OPERATOR
SERVICES, ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE TESTING, AND ASSOCIATED
(UST) AND ABOVE GROUND STORAGE TANK (AST) COMPONENT REPAIR
AT FOUR (4) CITY FUEL SITES IN A NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF
$35,674.00 FOR THE INITIAL THREE YEARS OF THE PROPOSED
AGREEMENT; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE EXTENSION OF THE AGREEMENT FOR AN
ADDITIONAL TWO YEARS AT THE DISCRETION OF THE PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER IN A NOT-TO-EXCEED AMOUNT OF
$26,821.20; 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
November 12, 2012
8
Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Culver
City Chamber of Commerce Regarding the Parties Cooperation
in Community Events, Projects and the General Economic
Development of the City
Councilmember Sahli-Wells clarified that the Chamber of
Commerce was covering the cost of the banners and noted
that public discussion of additional events would be
available if necessary.
Councilmember Clarke expressed appreciation for the chance
to work with the Chamber of Commerce and he noted the work
of the Chamber on the Economic Development Subcommittee.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE TWO-YEAR MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH
THE CULVER CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE REGARDING THE PARTIES
COOPERATION IN COMMUNITY EVENTS, PROJECTS AND THE GENERAL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY; AND
2. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE THE ADDITIONAL
TWO-YEAR EXTENSION OF THE MOU ADMINISTRATIVELY; AND
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
o0o
Item C-4
(Out of Sequence)
1) Acceptance of a Grant through the Department of
Transportation’s Bicycle Transportation Account Grant
Program to Fund Bicycle Parking; and, 2) Approval
of a Budget Amendment to Appropriate the Grant and Matching
Funds
November 12, 2012
9
Vice Mayor Cooper thanked staff for pursing the grant that
would allow additional bicycle parking.
Councilmember Sahli-Wells noted the improvement in bicycle
racks; discussed rack placement; bicycle theft; and
visibility.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE ACCEPTANCE OF THE BICYCLE TRANSPORTATION ACCOUNT
GRANT; AND,
2. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO APPROPRIATE $5,000 IN GAS
TAX FUNDS FOR THE GRANT MATCH; AND,
3. APPROVE A BUDGET AMENDMENT TO APPROPRIATE $45,000 IN
GRANT FUNDING.
o0o
Item C-7
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Acceptance of Work Performed by Pavement Coatings Co.;
(2) Authorization to File a Notice of Completion; and (3)
Authorization to Release the Retention Payment after
Expiration of the 35-day Lien Period for the 2012
Residential Slurry Seal Program, P-863
Councilmember Sahli-Wells received clarification regarding
slurry seal complaints and concerns.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY THE CONTRACTOR, PAVEMENT
COATINGS CO., FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE 2012 RESIDENTIAL
SLURRY SEAL PROGRAM, P-863; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
EXECUTE THE NOTICE OF COMPLETION AND SUBMIT IT TO THE LOS
ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER’S OFFICE FOR RECORDATION;
AND,
November 12, 2012
10
3. AUTHORIZE THE RELEASE OF $18,833.41 IN RETENTION FUNDS
TO PAVEMENT COATINGS CO. FOLLOWING THE EXPIRATION OF THE
35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
o0o
Item C-3
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Review and Approval of the Downtown Culver City
Business Improvement District Advisory Board’s Annual Work
Program and Budget, and (2) Adoption of a Resolution of
Intent to Conduct a Public Hearing on December 10, 2013 to
Consider Levy of the Downtown Business Improvement
District Assessment for 2013
Mayor Weissman indicated the need to recuse himself as he
is a member of the Downtown Business Improvement District
and he exited the dais.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that should the matter be approved, it would be considered
at a Public Hearing on December 10, 2012.
Vice Mayor Cooper invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson distributed information to Councilmembers;
provided background on the Downtown Business Improvement
District; discussed parking meter rate increases and time
restrictions; meter rates in the downtown area; losses to
the City; and he suggested providing a revenue sharing
arrangement with the Downtown Business Association.
Vice Mayor Cooper received clarification regarding
collections for delinquent businesses.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE BID ADVISORY BOARD’S 2013 ANNUAL REPORT AS
FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK; AND,
November 12, 2012
11
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION SETTING DECEMBER 10,
2012, AS THE DATE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE
CONTINUATION OF THE DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY BUSINESS
IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2013. THE MOTION
CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Clarke, Cooper, O’Leary, Sahli-Wells
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
RECUSED: Weissman
Mayor Weissman returned to Council Chambers.
o0o
Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending the Culver City Zoning
Map, as Referenced in Title 17, Zoning, of the Culver City
Municipal Code, Section 17.200.015, Establishing the
Washington National Transit Oriented Development Planned
Development (PD) Zone - No. 11
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, provided a
summary of the material of record.
MOVED BY VICE CHAIR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY
AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND
FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING AND POSTING OF PUBLIC NOTICE.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
There was no response.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER November 12, 2012
12
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the comprehensive plan process; the distribution
of uses; the precise plan; disposition of the property; the
building envelope; building massing goals; the height
limit; guarding against a big box type usage; the public
space; landscaping; community input; land use studies;
financial analysis; a boutique hotel usage; actual transit
use in transit oriented developments; shuttle service;
making transit more usable; financial incentives for
businesses in the area; offering transit passes;
appreciation to staff and the Planning Commission for their
work; whether the property can be taken by the state;
adoption of the zoning code amendments; the geography of
the site; modifications to existing ordinances to allow the
use of redevelopment tools; the right to exceed the 56-foot
height limit; and a suggestion to bifurcate the motion to
separate out the height limit.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINE THAT NO ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION
IS NEEDED BASED ON THE PLANNING COMMISSION’S ADOPTION OF
THE FINDING THAT ZONING CODE MAP AMENDMENT, ZCMA –
P2012085, PLANNING COMMISSION ZCMA RESOLUTION NO. 2012-
P012, WILL NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE IMPACT ON THE
ENVIRONMENT; AND
2. INTRODUCE THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CULVER
CITY ZONING MAP, AS REFERENCED IN TITLE 17, ZONING, OF THE
CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, SECTION 17.200.015,
ESTABLISHING A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT ZONE FOR THE WASHINGTON
NATIONAL TOD.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL INCLUDE THE PLANNING
COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION IN SECTION X, SECTION B WITH
RESPECT TO THE INCREASE IN HEIGHT LIMIT NOT EXCEEDING THE
DEVELOPMENT THRESHOLDS PROVIDED IN THE PD ZONE. THE MOTION
CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: Clarke, Cooper, O’Leary, Weissman
NOES: Sahli-Wells
ABSENT: None November 12, 2012
13
o0o
Item PH-2
(1) Adoption of a Resolution Approving a General Plan Text and
General Plan Map Amendment (General Plan Text Amendment GPTA-
P2012100; and General Plan Map Amendment GPMA-P2012099)
Amending the Land Use Element Regarding Public Parking
Facilities; and (2) Introduction of an Ordinance Amending
Title 17, Zoning, of the Culver City Municipal Code and the
Culver City Zoning Map Regarding Alternative Parking
Provisions and Establishing a Public Parking Facilities (PPF)
Zone (Zoning Code Text Amendment ZCA-P2012101; and Zoning Code
Map Amendment ZCMA-P2012102)
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE
AND FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING AND POSTING OF PUBLIC
NOTICE.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, provided a
summary of the material of record and requested that the item
be continued to December 10, 2012 to allow time for staff to
bring back the map changes with respect to Washington/
Centinela.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
non-required off-site parking; the ordinance; the draft
ordinance recommendations; vetting the proposals with the
community; the City-wide regulations; the Hayden Tract; off-
site parking; surplus parking; automated parking; and the type
of parking provided.
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
There was no response.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, noted that November 12, 2012
14
in order to continue the item to December 10, 2012 the
public hearing would need to be reopened.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RE-
OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
CONTINUE THE ITEM TO DECEMBER 10, 2012.
o0o
Item PH-3
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending the Culver City Zoning
Map, as Referenced in Title 17, Zoning, of the Culver City
Municipal Code, Section 17.200.015, Establishing Planned
Development Zone No. 10 Zoning Code Map Amendment (ZCMA P-
2012020) and Approving a Comprehensive Plan (CP P-2012018) to
Allow a Commercial Development Consisting of Approximately
41,735 Square Feet of Retail and Restaurant Uses and 38,732
Square Feet of Office Uses Located at 8810-8850 Washington
Boulevard and 3920 Landmark Street
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING AND POSTING OF
PUBLIC NOTICE.
Thomas Gorham, Planning Manager, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Joseph Miller indicated that they had come up with a green
solution to build a beautiful, energy efficient building
and he thanked staff and the Planning Commission for their
hard work.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
November 12, 2012
15
Trevor Abramson, Abrahamson Teiger Architects, provided a
presentation on the project.
Joseph Miller discussed passive cooling; the time spent on
the building concept; and alternative designs.
Beatriz Sliva-Spies expressed support for the project and
provided a petition signed by neighbors in support of the
project.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the façade on the parking structure; visibility
of the cars; nighttime illumination; the art on Landmark;
the guard rails; aesthetics; screening; and breathability.
Discussion ensued between staff, Councilmembers and project
representatives regarding passive cooling; the vote of the
Planning Commission; exploration of multiple alternatives;
adding a mechanical system to pump air through; breathable
materials; mechanical issues; aesthetic issues; the
architectural design and intent; concern with patchwork
design; the necessity of having two sides of the project
closed; the artwork on Landmark; ventilation requirements;
the ability of the City Council to make design
recommendations; the art component; the creativity of the
design; and lighting issues.
Marla Koosed, Vice Chair of the Cultural Affairs
Commission, received clarification that there would be a
component to allow for new media in the art display boxes.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE
CITY COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINE THAT THERE IS NO NEW INFORMATION OR
SUBSTANTIAL CHANGES TO THE PROJECT SINCE THE PLANNING
COMMISSION’S ADOPTION OF THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
AND, THEREFORE, NO ADDITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS IS
REQUIRED; AND
2. INTRODUCE THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE, AMENDING THE CULVER
CITY ZONING MAP, AS REFERENCED IN TITLE 17, ZONING, OF THE November 12, 2012
16
CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE, SECTION 17.200.015,
ESTABLISHING PLANNED DEVELOPMENT ZONE NO. 10 (ZONING CODE
MAP AMENDMENT, ZCMA-P2012020) AND APPROVING A COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN (CP P- 2012018).
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding and Lease Agreement
with the Wende Museum for the Property Located at 10808 Culver
Boulevard (the Former Site of the National Guard Armory)
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Dr. Justin Jampol, Wende Museum, provided background on the
museum and thanked the City for their support.
Gerald Sallus expressed support for the museum and hoped
that the museum would work with the Historical Society.
Christopher Patrick King, Culver City Homelessness
Committee, noted that the Armory used to house the winter
shelter program, and he expressed appreciation for the
cooperation of the Wende Museum and support for the
project.
Marla Koosed expressed support for the project.
Louise Coffey-Webb, Culver City Historical Society,
expressed support for the project.
Goran Erikkson, Chamber of Commerce, expressed support for
the project.
Julie Lugo Cerra, City Historian, expressed support for the
project noting that it fell within the Cultural Plan and
was natural redevelopment.
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read written comments
submitted by:
November 12, 2012
17
Michelle Bernardin
Catherine Yanda
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Dr. Jampol
regarding the Museum of Jurassic Technology; the cold
weather shelter; contributions for public benefit; the
Culver City Unified School District; cooperation with other
cultural institutions; creating a Cold War Culver City
Walking Tour and Cold War Film series; work with the
Historical Society and other groups; and the 75-year lease.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AND LEASE
AGREEMENT WITH THE WENDE MUSEUM REFLECTING THE TERMS
CONTAINED IN THIS REPORT; 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.
Councilmember O’Leary exited the dais.
o0o
Item A-2
(1) Consideration of City Sponsorship of the Culver City
Sister City Committee’s 50th Anniversary Community
Celebration on January 12, 2013 and (2) Approval of a
Memorandum of Understanding Related thereto
Mayor Weissman invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Barbara Honig, Sister Cities Association, clarified that a
previous sister city relationship in China had ended in
2004 by mutual agreement.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
SAHLI-WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
November 12, 2012
18
1. DESIGNATE THE CCSCC 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMUNITY
CELEBRATION AS A CITY-SPONSORED EVENT AND DETERMINE THE
AMOUNT OF A REIMBURSEMENT FOR EVENT COSTS IN AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $1,648; AND
2. APPROVE A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH THE CCSCC
RELATED TO THE REIMBURSEMENT OF COSTS FOR THE EVENT; 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. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING
VOTE:
AYES: Clarke, Cooper, Sahli-Wells, Weissman
NOES: None
ABSENT: O’Leary
o0o
Public Comment for Items NOT On the Agenda (Continued)
Mayor Weissman invited public input.
There was no response.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Reported that on December 10, 2012 the Ad Hoc
Committee on Legislation and Grants would be bringing
forth a recommendation for a legislative program
• Received consensus to agendize the establishment of a
Centennial Committee for the 100
th
anniversary of the
City and discussed actions of neighboring cities
Items from Mayor Weissman
• Received consensus that a discussion of a Fiesta La
Ballona MOU come forward on an agenda soon
November 12, 2012
19
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that applications to serve on the Financial Advisory
Committee would be open on November 15 through mid-January
with appointments considered in late January or early
February.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:18 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting in memory of George J. Peyton and
Lieutenant Colonel Gordon Scott to a meeting on Monday,
December 10, 2012 at 7:00 p.m.
o0o
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of the City of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City,
California
ANDREW WEISSMAN
MAYOR of the City of Culver City, California