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THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CULVER CITY CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE July 14, 2014
CITY COUNCIL 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor Sahli-Wells called the meeting of the City Council to
order at 5:30 p.m.
Present: Meghan Sahli-Wells, Mayor
Micheál O‘Leary, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Councilmember
Jeffrey Cooper, Councilmember
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
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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: 8511 Warner Drive
Agency Negotiators: John M. Nachbar, City Manager/Executive
Director, Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development
Director/Assistant Executive Director, Todd Tipton, Economic
Development Manager and Murray Kane, City Special
Counsel/Successor Agency General Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: Conjunctive Points Warner
Development (a.k.a. Samitaur Constructs/Fredrick Smith)
Under Negotiation: Both Price and Terms of Payment, including
use restrictions, development obligations and other monetary
considerations.
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
July 14, 2014
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CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: 8829, 8831, 8840, 8841, 8843 Exposition Boulevard; 8801,
8803, 8824, 8825, 8828, 8830-8834, 8836, 8839, 8842, 8846
National Boulevard; 8900-8906, 8910-8912, 8914-8918, 8920,
8926, 8930, 8936 Venice Boulevard
Agency Negotiators: John Nachbar, City Manager/Executive
Director; Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development
Director/Assistant Executive Director; Todd Tipton, Economic
Development Manager; Murray Kane, City/Successor Agency
Special Counsel
Other Parties Negotiators: Lowe Enterprises Real Estate 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
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Reconvene
Mayor Sahli-Wells reconvened the City Council meeting at
7:08 p.m. with all Councilmembers present.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor Sahli-Wells indicated nothing to report out of closed
session.
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Reflection/Pledge of Allegiance
The Reflection was given by John Nachbar, City Manager, and
the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Ken Ruben.
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Presentations
Item P-1
A Proclamation in Honor of July as "Parks Make Life
Better!" Month
Councilmember Cooper presented the proclamation. July 14, 2014
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Dan Hernandez, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director, noted that Culver City had outstanding facilities
and programs; he thanked the City Council and City Manager
for their support; and he discussed ongoing programs as
well as upcoming events.
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Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Vice Mayor O’Leary reported attending the Independent Cities
Association (ICA) Summer Seminars in San Diego with
Councilmember Clarke noting that he would be sharing
information.
Councilmember Clarke reported that Vice Mayor O’Leary had
been elected Secretary of the ICA.
Mayor Sahli-Wells reported on the kick-off of the Summer
Concert Series and announced upcoming concerts; reported
being invited to celebrate Ramadan at the King Fahad
Mosque; announced that smoking in multi-unit housing would
be discussed on August 11 along with e-cigarettes; she
reported attending an event that Los Angeles Mayor Garcetti
held to facilitate unity among regional cities; and she
reported attending a free performance by the Culver City
Public Theatre in Carlson Park with free shows every
weekend all summer long.
John Nachbar, City Manager, reported on the success of the |1010|th
of July celebration at West LA College.
Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh, President of West Los Angeles College,
discussed the success of the event and partnership with the
City and the Exchange Club.
John Cohn, Culver City Exchange Club, provided a slide show
on the 4
th
of July celebration and thanked the City and West
LA College for their assistance.
Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh, President of West Los Angeles College,
indicated that the slide show could be accessed from the July 14, 2014
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West LA College website, and he invited everyone to attend
next year.
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Joint Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Stephen Murray, LAX Community Noise Roundtable alternate,
provided a report on the most recent meeting; discussed the
purpose of the Roundtable and membership; airport access
restrictions on eastbound nighttime flights; non-conforming
departures; he noted that the FAA was inviting public
comment; and he suggested posting information on the City
website.
Dr. Janet Hoult thanked the City for the plans to repave
Motor Avenue and the neighbor who spearheaded the effort;
wanted to see tree replacement; discussed lining the sewer;
forest management; expressed concern with safety; and she
questioned when improvements would be made.
Matt Seeberger, Culver City Sister City Committee, thanked
the City Council for their support; reported that a
delegation from Iksan City, South Korea would be coming to
town; invited everyone to the Welcome Picnic at the Sundial
at Bill Botts Field on July 19; and he indicated that
Culver City students would be travelling to Kaizuka, Japan.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
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Joint Consent Calendar
Item JC-1
July 14, 2014
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Joint Culver City Council/Culver City Housing Authority/
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency
Agenda Item: Cash Disbursements
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR JUNE 14, 2013 – JULY 4, 2104.
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Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER COOPER, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1 THROUGH C-6, AND C-8.
Item C-1
Meeting Minutes
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF JUNE 23, 2014.
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Item C-2
Adoption of an Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Sub-Chapter
15.02.100 of Title 15, Chapter 15.02 of the Culver City
Municipal Code and Adopting by Reference the 2013 California
Building Standards Administrative Code, 2013 California
Building Code, 2013 California Residential Building Code,
2013 California Electrical Code, 2013 California Mechanical
Code, 2013 California Plumbing Code, 2013 California Energy
Code, 2013 California Historical Building Code, 2013 Existing
Building Code, 2013 California Green Building Standards Code,
and 2013 California Reference Standards Code; and Repealing
and Reserving Chapter 15.04 of Title 15 in Its Entirety
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND
REPLACING SUBCHAPTER 15.02.100 OF TITLE 15, CHAPTER 15.02 THE
CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2013
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE, 2013
CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE, 2013 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
BUILDING CODE, 2013 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE, 2013
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, 2013 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE,
2013 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE, 2013 CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL July 14, 2014
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BUILDING CODE, 2013 EXISTING BUILDING CODE, 2013 CALIFORNIA
GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE, AND 2013 CALIFORNIA REFERENCE
STANDARDS CODE; AND REPEALING AND RESERVING CHAPTER 15.04 OF
TITLE 15 IN ITS ENTIRETY.
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Item C-3
Adoption of an Ordinance Repealing and Replacing Chapter 9.02
of Title 9 of the Culver City Municipal Code and Adopting by
Reference the 2013 California Fire Code with Local Amendments
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND
REPLACING CHAPTER 9.02 OF TITLE 9 OF THE CULVER CITY
MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THE 2013 CALIFORNIA
FIRE CODE WITH LOCAL AMENDMENTS.
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Item C-4
(1) Pursuant to Culver City Municipal Code Section
3.07.075(E)(3), Determine that Compliance with the Formal Bid
Procedures Would be Impractical, Waive the Formal Bid
Requirements, and Deem it to be in the City's Best Interest
to Authorize Negotiated Contracts; (2) Approval of a Five
Year Professional Services Agreement with the County of Los
Angeles (Department of Animal Care and Control) for
Supplemental Animal Control Services and Animal Facility
Licensing Services in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $75,000; and
(3) Approval of a Five Year Professional Services Agreement
with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los
Angeles (SPCA/LA) for Animal Sheltering Services in an Amount
Not-to-Exceed $165,000
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. PURSUANT TO CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION
3.07.075(E)(3), DETERMINE THAT COMPLIANCE WITH THE FORMAL BID
PROCEDURES WOULD BE IMPRACTICAL, WAIVE THE FORMAL BID
REQUIREMENTS, AND DEEM IT TO BE IN THE CITY'S BEST INTEREST
TO AUTHORIZE NEGOTIATED CONTRACTS; AND
2. APPROVE A FIVE YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES FOR SUPPLEMENTAL ANIMAL CONTROL
FIELD SERVICES AND SHELTERING AND ANIMAL FACILITY LICENSING July 14, 2014
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FOR A TERM ENDING ON JUNE 30, 2019 FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $75,000; AND
3. APPROVE A FIVE YEAR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
SPCA/LA FOR ANIMAL SHELTERING SERVICES FOR A TERM ENDING ON
JUNE 30, 2019 FOR AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $165,000; AND
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
5. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-5
Adoption of a Resolution Granting a Permit to the Culver City
Exchange Club to Conduct a Beer and Wine Garden in Veterans’
Memorial Park During the 2014 Fiesta La Ballona
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION GRANTING A PERMIT TO
THE CULVER CITY EXCHANGE CLUB TO CONDUCT A BEER AND WINE
GARDEN IN VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK DURING THE 2014 FIESTA LA
BALLONA.
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Item C-6
Approval of Special Permits to Allow Animals in Veterans’
Memorial Park for Entertainment Purposes on August 22, 23 and
24, 2014 during the Fiesta La Ballona
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: APPROVE THE FOLLOWING SPECIAL PERMITS
TO ALLOW ANIMALS IN VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK FOR ENTERTAINMENT
PURPOSES DURING THE FIESTA LA BALLONA ON AUGUST 22, 23 AND
24, 2014: (1) FRECKLE FARMS FOR A PETTING ZOO AND PONY RIDES;
AND (2) CULVER CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT FOR A K-9 DOG
DEMONSTRATION.
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Item C-8
(Out of Sequence)
July 14, 2014
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(1) Approval of a Contract Change Order in the Amount of
$9,793.14 (for a Total Not-to-Exceed Contract Amount of
$62,018.14); (2) Acceptance of the Work Performed by FS
Construction, Inc.; (3) Authorization to File a Notice of
Completion; and (4) Authorization to Release the Retention
Payment after the Expiration of the 35-Day Lien Period, for
the CDBG Sidewalk & Curb Repair Project, PZ-428, CDBG No.
601542-13
Councilmember Clarke received clarification regarding the
unforeseen costs cited in the staff report.
Mayor Sahli-Wells extended congratulations to Christopher
Evans on his new baby.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A CHANGE ORDER IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,793.14 (FOR A
TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $62,018.14); AND,
2. ACCEPT THE WORK PERFORMED BY FS CONSTRUCTION, INC. FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF THE CDBG SIDEWALK & CURB REPAIR PROJECT, P-
428; AND,
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;
4. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO RELEASE $2,961.25 IN
RETENTION TO FS CONSTRUCTION, INC. AFTER THE EXPIRATION OF
THE 35-DAY LIEN PERIOD.
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Item C-7
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with Artecho in
an Amount Not-to-Exceed $84,965 for the Preparation of the
City of Culver City Urban Forest Management and Tree
Succession Plan
Eric Mirzaian, Assistant Maintenance Operations Manager,
provided a brief report on the item.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the notification process; encouragement to residents to visit July 14, 2014
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Fiesta La Ballona to speak with staff and consultants;
guidelines for the consultants; feedback to create a
community driven project; the Santa Monica Urban Forest
program; the promotion of species diversity; the removal
process; replacement requirements; and the importance of
maximum public input.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH ARTECHO IN
AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $84,965.00 FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE
CITY’S URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT AND TREE SUCCESSION PLAN; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $8,496.00;
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-9
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager or
Designee to Execute Any Actions Necessary for the Purpose of
Obtaining Financial Assistance Provided by the California
Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Under the Proposition
1B Transit Security Grant Program
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ANY ACTIONS NECESSARY FOR
THE PURPOSE OF OBTAINING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE PROVIDED BY THE
CALIFORNIA GOVERNOR’S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES UNDER THE
PROPOSITION 1B TRANSIT SECURITY GRANT PROGRAM.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER COOPER, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE ITEMS C-7 AND C-9.
July 14, 2014
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Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
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Joint Public Hearings
Item JPH-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: PUBLIC
HEARING Approval of an Implementation Agreement between the
City of Culver City, the Successor Agency to the Culver
City Redevelopment Agency and Lowe Enterprises Real Estate
Group in Order to Convey Real Property Located at 8829,
8831, 8839, 8841, 8843 Exposition Boulevard; 8801, 8803
Washington Boulevard; 8824, 8825, 8828, 8830-8834, 8836,
8838, 8840, 8842, 8846 National Boulevard; 8900-8906, 8910-
8912, 8914-8918, 8920, 8926, 8930, 8936 Venice Boulevard to
Develop a High Quality Transit Oriented Development
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING
OF NOTICES AND CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED IN RESPONSE TO THE
PUBLIC HEARING.
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, described
the purpose of the hearing noting the need to postpone the
item.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Tom Wolf, Lowe Enterprises, thanked staff for their
efforts; expressed support for their recommendations; July 14, 2014
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indicated being present to answer any questions or provide
background on the organization; and expressed enthusiasm
for moving forward with the highly complicated project.
Vice Mayor O’Leary requested that in the future Mr. Wolf
allow staff sufficient processing time to get any proposed
changes on the agenda.
Andrew Reilman expressed concern with parking issues around
the Metro station and wanted to make sure that free parking
would be continue to be available; he discussed the success
of downtown Culver City; the importance of providing free
parking; the Transit Oriented Development going into the
area; and he expressed concern with giving the parcel away
to a developer.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding consideration of the disposition of the property
to Lowe; clarification that the free parking would not
disappear; parking during construction; clarification that
300 stalls of free parking would be provided once Phase 2
of Expo becomes operational; clarification that less
parking would be provided once the station is no longer the
terminus and demand is less; the total amount of parking
provided for the project; additional opportunity for public
input; consideration of the project in detail;
encouragement to Mr. Reilman to get on the public
notification list; the public process; disposition of the
property; the comprehensive plan; required hearings; the
implementation and participation agreements; and a
suggestion to continue the entire public hearing to
consider the matter as a whole at the same time.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND
SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD: CONTINUE THE PUBLIC HEARING TO JULY
28, 2014.
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Public Hearings
Item PH-1
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - Adoption of a Resolution
Confirming the Assessment and Ordering the Levy for the July 14, 2014
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Higuera Street Landscape and Lighting Assessment District -
Fiscal Year 2014/2015
Mayor Sahli-Wells noted that the matter had been continued
and she invited public comment.
No speaker cards were received and no speakers came
forward.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE 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 2014/2015.
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Item PH-2
CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - Adoption of a Resolution
Confirming the Assessment and Ordering the Levy for
Landscaping Maintenance District No. 1 - Fiscal Year
2014/2015
Councilmember Cooper indicated the need to recuse himself
and he exited the dais.
Mate Gaspar, Engineer Services Manager, provided a
correction on page 3 noting that he had neglected to
include the tree trimming costs.
Patrick Reynolds, Parks Manager, provided a slide
presentation on Landscape Maintenance District #1; defended
the work of staff and the contractor; discussed sustainable
practices; noted that he was available to clear up any
misunderstanding with homeowners and neighbors; discussed
active beehives; better communication; meetings; and
establishing a plan to move forward.
Councilmember Weissman received clarification regarding
total costs for the district; reserve funds; the upcoming July 14, 2014
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assessment; the operating deficit; past increases; and
maintenance costs.
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Stew Bebar asserted that the images presented by City staff
were from Elenda, not from Culver where there are issues;
discussed transparency and accountability; indicated that
the budget amount included money from two years ago;
appreciated the offer to meet on a regular basis; felt that
the Engineer’s Report did not present a clear enough
picture of what has been happening and would be happening;
questioned why an additional assessment was necessary; and
he noted that the area did not have a formal homeowners
association.
Marty Zisner indicted willingness to be part of a process
to help improve the quality and aesthetics of the highly
desirable area.
Dana Russell thanked Mr. Gaspar and Mr. Reynolds for
clarifying the process; discussed his expectations; the
Engineer’s Report; inclusion of the money from 2012;
concern with increasing the assessment when expenses are
less; discussed sprinklers; improvements since he spoke at
the meeting; the presentation by staff; and responsiveness
prior to his speaking at the previous meeting.
Nancy Wileman indicated that she had previously expressed
concern regarding this issue; discussed pine trees against
the wall; incorrect planting of the trees; the assertion by
the City that they do not remove good trees; residents
impacted by trees; she reported that she had seen
maintenance done in the past; discussed her observations;
expressed concern that tree trimming would be changed from
annually to every three years; and cleaning up after the
City.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the new tree removal ordinance; the petition
submitted by Mrs. Wileman for tree removal; the
recommendation of the arborist; the complaint and the basis
for denial; improper planting; who planted the tree in July 14, 2014
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question; homeowner associations; the role of the City;
development plans; tree placement; whether homeowners can
trim trees; clarification that the landscaped areas are
common areas; aesthetic appeal and benefits of the trees;
damaging the character of the trees; overspray and sidewalk
runoff; corruption in the city of Bell; reports from Mrs.
Wileman; responsiveness of the City; accessibility of the
Councilmembers; Higuera Street; scheduling meetings between
staff, the contractors and residents; absence of a majority
protest; realistic expectations; raising awareness; a
suggestion that the residents form a committee; the
difficulty of dealing with individuals speaking only for
themselves; a suggestion to hold a meeting at the Scout
Hut; enhancements going forward; challenges with the lack
of a homeowners association; communication; reaching a
consensus on how to proceed; the process for creating a
homeowner association; tree trimming costs; getting the
assessment on the tax rolls; whether any formal protests
were filed; the process to file a formal protest; and
notification procedures.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and
Councilmembers regarding a suggestion to place a condition
on the approval that a meeting be held in 90 days; ongoing
maintenance responsibilities; staff direction; and the
assessment as standing alone.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ENGINEER’S REPORT AND ASSESSMENT
LEVY FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT #1 FOR FISCAL YEAR
2014/2015. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Councilmember Clarke received consensus from the City
Council and agreement from staff to hold a meeting with
Studio Estates residents within 60 days to address
concerns.
July 14, 2014
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Bruce Forman volunteered to distribute fliers to Studio
Estates residents about meetings.
Councilmember Cooper returned to the dais.
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Item PH-3
Consideration of the Implementation of a Change to the Fare
Charged by Culver CityBus for Sight-Impaired Passengers
(Blind Passengers)
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS OF PUBLISHING AND THE
NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Art Ida, Transportation Director, provided a summary of the
material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding qualifiers for Access Services; testing
facilities; the fiscal analysis; distinguishing between
Senior and Disabled designations; qualifiers to receive a
LACTOA Card; terms of certification; Federal requirements;
dealing with a single coin vs. multiple coins; TAP cards;
the percentage of passengers qualifying for free fares;
promotion of the program; eligibility for Access Services;
outreach; fare revenue; and losses to operating grant
monies.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Sammie Shipman discussed what is entailed to get Access
Services; issues with getting coins out of pockets; an
observation that it would be easier to only have to access July 14, 2014
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one coin; and she requested that if a fare is charged, that
it be 25 cents.
Ken Ruben discussed the Metro Citizen’s Advisory Council;
policies of other cities; he distributed comments to a
report on Ari Noonan’s website and encouraged everyone to
read them; and he did not feel that one person’s complaint
should affect so many people.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the fact that losses incurred by no longer
charging the disabled community would impact state and
Federal funds; distribution by formula; the number of
visually impaired people utilizing the bus system; the
complaint lodged by the individual; risks with maintaining
the status quo; concern with violating existing laws;
asking Metro to only count full fare passengers; changing
the formula; encouraging the use of public transit; overall
fares; disabled fares; affects to ridership; codes
referenced by the complaint; Federal regulations; specific
issues faced by blind people; arguments from other disabled
persons; safety issues; and concern that a pressing need
does not exist for the change.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CLOSE
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Additional discussion ensued between Councilmembers and
staff regarding appreciation to the public for their input;
disappointment that the person making the complaint did not
provide input; and clarification on procedure.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
MAINTAIN THE FARE STATUS QUO.
Mayor Sahli-Wells expressed appreciation to staff for their
hard work.
Vice Mayor O’Leary thanked Sammie Shipman for her
testimony.
o0o July 14, 2014
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Action Items
Item A-1
Consideration of the Nomination Process for the Names of
Three Culver City Residents for Submittal to the Governor’s
Office for Appointment to the Baldwin Hills Conservancy
Board of Directors and Provide Direction to the City
Manager Related Thereto
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding the current appointments and term limits.
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and
Councilmembers regarding appreciation to Lloyd Dixon for
his service; allowing someone else a chance to serve;
fairness; appointment cycles; length of term; clarification
that the Governor makes the appointment from the names
submitted by the City; submission of three names; providing
choice; putting the word out to the public; making an
expedited call to solicit names; submitting the names in
priority order; the application process; financial
disclosure; providing a link to the online application with
the notice and information about the Conservancy; honoring
the request for three names; value to having a consistent
representative; knowledge, experience and familiarity with
the process; the competency and dedication of Mr. Dixon;
whether it would be acceptable to the Governor if the City
were to only put one name forward; the statute; different
ways of submitting the names in the past; encouragement by
the Chair of the Conservancy that the Governor appointees
reapply online and handle it themselves; the importance of
the Conservancy with recent partnerships; Blair Hills
residents; and spending the money to provide an open
process.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY MAYOR SAHLI-
WELLS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: MAKE THE APPOINTMENT OPEN AND
RECEIVE APPLICATIONS WITH A LINK TO THE APPLICATION TO
CLARIFY WHAT THE POSITION ENTAILS AND WHAT THE CONSERVANCY
DOES. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: July 14, 2014
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AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: COOPER, WEISSMAN
Councilmember Cooper suggested utilizing social media for
more effective notifications.
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, reported that standard
procedure is that staff sends out notices to Facebook and
Twitter when e-mail notification is made.
o0o
Item A-2
(1) Consideration of a Recommendation from the Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services Commission; and (2) (If
Desired) Adoption of a Resolution Revising the Established
Rules and Regulations Regarding the Use of Skateboard Parks
within the City and Rescinding Resolution No. 2007-R049
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPT A RESOLUTION REVISING THE ESTABLISHED RULES AND
REGULATIONS REGARDING THE USE OF SKATEBOARD PARKS WITHIN
THE CITY AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2007-R049, AS
RECOMMENDED BY THE PARKS, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
COMMISSION.
o0o
Item A-3
(1) Consideration of a Recommendation from the Parks,
Recreation, and Community Services Commission Related to
the Establishment of Dog Paths; (2) (If Desired)
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Culver City Municipal
Code Section 9.10.600 Regarding the Definition and
Establishment, by Resolution, of Designated Dog Paths
within Culver City Parks; and (3) (If Desired) Adoption of
a Resolution Establishing Certain Designated Dog Paths in
City Parks, Including the Existing Designated Dog Paths in July 14, 2014
19
Culver West Alexander Park and Culver City Park and Two
Proposed Designated Dog Paths in Veterans’ Memorial Park
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CULVER CITY MUNICIPAL
CODE SECTION 9.10.600 REGARDING THE DEFINITION AND
ESTABLISHMENT, BY RESOLUTION, OF DESIGNATED DOG PATHS
WITHIN CULVER CITY PARKS; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING CERTAIN DESIGNATED DOG
PATHS IN CITY PARKS, INCLUDING THE EXISTING DESIGNATED DOG
PATHS IN CULVER WEST ALEXANDER PARK AND CULVER CITY PARK
AND TWO PROPOSED DESIGNATED DOG PATHS IN VETERANS’ MEMORIAL
PARK (#1 AND #2) WITH THE STIPULATION OF A SIX- MONTH
REVIEW OF PATH #2 BY THE COMMISSION.
Councilmembers requested that appreciation be conveyed to
the Commission for their work on the item.
o0o
Item A-4
Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Three (3) Year
Memorandum of Understanding with the Culver City Management
Group for the Period of July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2017
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
Mayor Sahli-Wells requested context for the proposal.
John Nachbar, City Manager, discussed impacts to the Culver
City Management Group during the recession; the percentage
impact felt by the bargaining unit; workload; he expressed
appreciation to the employees; provided clarification that
the previous salary increase had been in 2009; discussed
pension reform; non-recurring increases; impacts on the July 14, 2014
20
long-term finances of the City; and appreciation to those
at the negotiating table and the hard work of staff.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A THREE (3) YEAR MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE CULVER CITY
MANAGEMENT GROUP FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2014 THROUGH
JUNE 30, 2017.
o0o
Item A-5
Adoption of a Resolution Approving an Updated Executive
Compensation Plan
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
No cards were submitted and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN UPDATED EXECUTIVE
COMPENSATION PLAN.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Max Stodel discussed a Certificate of Appreciation
previously presented to him by the City for 25 Years of
Volunteer Service; expressed concern that he had not
received a return call from a Councilmember; he did not
feel that a chaperone should be required; questioned
whether Councilmember Weissman had answered a letter from
Holly Mitchell; expressed concern with anti-Semitism; and
concern with his reputation.
July 14, 2014
21
Mayor Sahli-Wells thanked Mr. Stodel for his service at the
Senior Center.
o0o
Items from the City Council
None.
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 10:34 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting to Monday, July 28, 2014 at
7:00 p.m.
o0o
___________________________________________________________
Martin R. Cole
CITY CLERK of Culver City, California
EX-OFFICIO CLERK of the City Council
Culver City, California
_____________________________________
MEGHAN SAHLI-WELLS
MAYOR of Culver City, California