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THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CULVER CITY CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE June 23, 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
Andrew Weissman, Councilmember
Absent: Jeffrey Cooper, 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: 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 June 23, 2014
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CS-2 Conference with Labor Negotiators
City designated representatives: City Manager John Nachbar,
Director of Human Resources Serena Wright
Employee Organizations: Culver City Employees Association, Culver
City Management Group, Culver City Police Officers' Association,
Culver City Police Management Group, Culver City Firefighters'
Association Local 1927, AFL-CIO, Culver City Fire Management
Group
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6
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Reconvene
Mayor Sahli-Wells reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:04
p.m. with four Councilmembers present (absent Councilmember
Cooper).
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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 Marty Hente of Culver City
Amateur Radio Emergency Service (CCARES).
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Community Announcements By City Council Members/Information
Items From Staff
Vice Mayor O'Leary announced a free household hazardous waste
and e-waste roundup on June 28 at the Wende Museum parking lot.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, noted that
additional information was available on the City website.
Councilmember Clarke reported acting as the Mayor’s June 23, 2014
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representative on June 21 at the graduation ceremonies for the
Mountain Recreation and Conservation Agency and he commended
staff and the art district on the successful Summer Solstice
event.
Mayor Sahli-Wells reported attending the U.S. Conference of
Mayors; she listed initiatives that she was able to sign as
Mayor; she indicated that she had signed on to a free Google
program to help promote business in the City and would be
sharing information with Economic Development; reported
attending a presentation about Women and Poverty by Maria
Shriver as well as a presentation by the EPA regarding the
importance of the environment and immediate effects to health;
reported meeting with other mayors; and she indicated that she
would be sharing much information with staff.
Art Ida, Transportation Director, reported that Paul Condran had
been chosen as Fleet Manager of the Year for 2014 at the
Government Fleet Expo Conference.
Paul Condran, Fleet Manager, introduced Transportation staff
members; recounted achievements of, and rewards received by the
department; and he reported that Culver City Fleet Services
Division had been named the 2014 Elite Fleet.
Councilmembers expressed pride in the work of the Transportation
Department; suggested adding a decal commemorating the award to
Culver CityBusses to alert the public to the accolades received;
expressed appreciation to staff for their work and achievements;
and challenged the department to continue to improve.
Scott Bixby, Interim Police Chief, introduced new department
member Alex Mendoza.
Mayor Sahli-Wells welcomed Officer Mendoza.
Jason Sims, Police Lieutenant, announced that applications were
still being accepted for the Citizen’s Police Academy beginning
on July 29 on Tuesdays for 8 weeks, and he announced the Second
Annual National Night Out on August 5 at Lindbergh Park.
Mayor Sahli-Wells reported that she and Councilmember Clarke had
attended the Citizen’s Police Academy, and she encouraged all
interested parties to participate.
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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:
Khin Khin Gyi submitted a petition to suspend fireworks at
West Los Angeles College on July 4 until a more suitable
location can be found; she expressed concern with the
proximity to a major gas line, electric lines and dry brush in
the area; she discussed five fires over the last year in the
fields surrounding the Inglewood Oil Fields; proximity to
Marycrest Manor; the area as a fire hazard zone; and she
expressed concern with subjecting neighbors to danger.
Dave White, Interim Fire Chief, discussed why he felt
confident that the event did not pose a risk to residents; he
reported speaking with Pyro Spectacular; discussed the review
of the site and the plan; the reputation of the company; he
clarified that the event was in the jurisdiction of the Los
Angeles County Fire Department which had issued a permit for
the event and were comfortable with the plan presented; and he
indicated that the Culver City Fire Department would be on
duty and able to intervene quickly if anything occurs.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
monitoring; the term “drop zone;” the debris zone; comparisons
to the set up at the High School; the number of fireworks
shows approved in Los Angeles County; the Culver Crest area;
the high pressure natural gas lines; jurisdiction; recourse;
an offer by Los Angeles County to add an extra truck on site
to allay resident fears at no additional charge; and community
notice regarding illegal fireworks.
Marty Hente, CCARES, discussed emergency preparedness; the
importance of communication; HAM radios; the consistency of
amateur radio; work with the Culver City Fire Department; and he
invited everyone to Field Day from June 28-29 sponsored by the
National Association for Amateur Radio.
Councilmember Clarke reported attending previous events and
encouraged everyone to participate.
June 23, 2014
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Laura Boccaletti, Culver City Public Theatre, provided
background on the formation of the all-volunteer organization;
thanked the City for the Performing Arts grant; and invited
everyone to their free 16
th
season in Carlson Park on Saturdays
and Sundays from July 12 to August 17.
Tim Bomba reported on their annual successful 5K and 10K event
and thanked the City for its support.
Mayor Sahli-Wells congratulated Mr. Bomba on the successful
event as well as for donating proceeds to the Culver City
Education Foundation and Train for Autism.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
correspondence included 3 pieces of correspondence for Item A-
1 and one piece for Item A-3.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
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Joint Consent Calendar
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE ITEMS JC-1, JC-2 AND JC-
3. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
June 23, 2014
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Item JC-1
Joint Culver City Council/Culver City Housing Authority/
Successor Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency Agenda
Item: Cash Disbursements
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR MAY 31,
2013 – JUNE 13, 2104.
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Item JC-2
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING
AUTHORITY AGENDA ITEM: (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 a Negotiated Contract; and (2) Approval of a Two-Year
Extension to the Professional Services Agreement with Marina
Landscape to Provide Landscape Maintenance Services and
Additional As-Needed Services on a Contingency Basis for a Term
Ending on June 30, 2016 in an Amount Not-To-Exceed $548,509.50
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE:
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 A NEGOTIATED
CONTRACT; AND,
APPROVE A TWO-YEAR EXTENSION TO THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH MARINA LANDSCAPE TO PROVIDE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
SERVICES, AND ADDITIONAL, AS-NEEDED SERVICES ON A CONTINGENCY
BASIS FOR A TERM ENDING ON JUNE 30, 2016 IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-
EXCEED $548,509.50; AND,
AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY/GENERAL COUNSEL TO REVIEW/PREPARE
THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE SUCH
DOCUMENTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY, THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY, THE
HOUSING AUTHORITY, AND THE PARKING AUTHORITY.
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June 23, 2014
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Item JC-3
JOINT CITY COUNCIL-SUCCESSOR AGENCY AGENDA ITEM: Adoption of
Respective Resolutions (1) Approving a Master Agreement
Regarding Retention and Expenditure of Bond Proceeds between the
City of Culver City and the Successor Agency to the Culver City
Redevelopment Agency Pursuant to California Health and Safety
Code Section 34191.4(c); and (2) Approving Related
Actions
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A MASTER
AGREEMENT REGARDING RETENTION AND EXPENDITURE OF BOND PROCEEDS
BETWEEN THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY AND THE CITY PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 34191.4(C).
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Consent Calendar
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
C-1 THROUGH C-7. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Item C-1
Meeting Minutes
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF
JUNE 9, 2014.
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Item C-2
Approval of an Amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding with
the Downtown Business Association for Maintenance
Services in Downtown Culver City for Fiscal Year 2014/2015
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH June 23, 2014
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THE DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION FOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES IN
DOWNTOWN CULVER CITY AT A COST NOT-TO-EXCEED $41,940 FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2014/2015; 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-3
Approval of an Amendment for a One-Year Extension, with an
Option for a Second One-Year Extension, to the Existing
Professional Services Agreement with Utility Systems, Science
and Software (US3), for Maintenance of the Emergency
Notification System/Sewer Flow Monitoring System (ENS/SFMS)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT FOR A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION, WITH AN OPTION
FOR A SECOND ONE-YEAR EXTENSION, TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH US3, FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED ANNUAL AMOUNT
OF $277,325; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO APPROVE
CHANGE ORDERS, IF NECESSARY, FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED ANNUAL AMOUNT
OF $27,732 (10% OF CONTRACT AMOUNT); 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-4
Adoption of a Resolution Approving the Engineer’s Report,
Declaring the Intention to Order the Sewer User’s Service Charge
for Fiscal Year 2014/2015, and Setting the Date, Time, and Place
for the Public Hearing to be Monday, July 28, 2014 at 7:00 PM in
the Mike Balkman Council Chambers June 23, 2014
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THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT A RESOLUTION (1) APPROVING THE
ENGINEER’S REPORT, (2) DECLARING THE CITY COUNCIL’S INTENTION TO
LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS FOR THE SEWER USER’S SERVICE CHARGE
- FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015, AND (3) SETTING THE TIME, DATE, AND
PLACE FOR A PUBLIC HEARING FOR JULY 28, 2014, AT 7:00 P.M. IN
THE MIKE BALKMAN COUNCIL CHAMBERS.
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Item C-5
Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to
Publish Notice Inviting Bids for Culver City Transfer Station
Loading Pit Structural Repairs, P-948, Bid No. 1547
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR
THE CULVER CITY TRANSFER STATION LOADING PIT STRUCTURAL REPAIRS,
P-948, BID NO. 1547 AND AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PUBLISH A NOTICE
INVITING CONSTRUCTION BIDS.
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Item C-6
Adoption of a Resolution Approving the 2014 Update to the Sewer
System Management Plan
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2014 UPDATE TO THE CITY’S SEWER
SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN PURSUANT TO STATE WATER RESOURCES CONTROL
BOARD ORDER NO. 2006-0003-DWQ AS REVISED BY ORDER NO. WQ 2013-
0058-EXEC.
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Item C-7
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with Vision
Internet in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $62,750 for Professional
Design Services and Content Management Software to Support the
City’s Website
June 23, 2014
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THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH VISION
INTERNET IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $62,570 TO PROVIDE
PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES AND CONTENT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE TO
SUPPORT THE CITY’S WEBSITE; 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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Order of the Agenda
No changes were made.
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Joint Public Hearings
Item JPH-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/HOUSING AUTHORITY/PARKING AUTHORITY AGENDA
ITEM: PUBLIC HEARING - 1) Adoption of a Resolution Approving
and Adopting the Annual Appropriations Limit for Fiscal
2014/2015; 2) Adoption of a Resolution Adopting the Fiscal
Year 2014/2015 Budget for the City of Culver City, the Culver
City Housing Authority, and the Culver City Parking Authority
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN June 23, 2014
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NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marla Koosed, Chair of the Cultural Affairs Commission and
Foundation, thanked the City Council, City Manager and
everyone who provided public input on the Cultural Affairs
Commission budget recommendations for 2014-2015 as well as
staff for their hard work over the past year; discussed
approval for initiation of a study similar to the Otis Report
on the Creative Economy to establish baseline knowledge of the
arts and culture in Culver City; she felt the study would aid
in strategic planning efforts for Cultural Affairs; she noted
the need to explore additional sources of funding in the next
fiscal year; she asserted that the workload was more than Ms.
Byers, and Ms. Obrow at 20% would be able to reasonably
accomplish; discussed revision of the Historic Preservation
ordinance; and she wanted to see a plan to reinstate Ms. Obrow
at 100% for Cultural Affairs.
Cary Anderson read an excerpt from Item J-2 in the January 3,
2012 meeting minutes, and he questioned whether committee
meetings and the workshop were public as he wanted to provide
input.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding the ad hoc
committee; the first meeting; identification of issues;
representation from City departments; the work list; issues
identified; composition of the Committee; and solicitation of
public input in the future.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY 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
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING June 23, 2014
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AND ADOPTING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT FOR FISCAL YEAR
2014/2015. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells commented that budgeting was a statement of
values and indicated the priorities of the City; she was
pleased that the budget reflected many things that the public
has expressed concern about; she noted that the City could
finally address capital improvements, trees, sidewalks and the
arts; she thanked staff for their responsiveness; she
appreciated the expansion of the process, allowing for public
input, and availability of information; she discussed meeting
the Mayor of Bell; and she thanked the community for taking
the time to provide their input.
Councilmember Clarke thanked staff and the Finance Advisory
Committee for their work.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL AND BOARDS:
ADOPT RESPECTIVE RESOLUTIONS APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR
2014/2015 BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF CULVER CITY, HOUSING
AUTHORITY, AND PARKING AUTHORITY. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
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Public Hearings
Item PH-5
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and
Ordering the Levy for Landscaping Maintenance District No. 1 -
Fiscal Year 2014/2015
June 23, 2014
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MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Councilmember Weissman received clarification that a separate
motion was required to open each public hearing.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Dana Russell provided photographs; expressed concern with
maintenance; discussed broken pipes; planting; procedures for
reimbursement for work done; the maintenance contract; the
levy; costs to maintain the area; the fee increase; and he
asked for an accounting of where the money was going to
maintain the area.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the annual assessment for the district; different maintenance
contracts; ongoing maintenance; the irrigation system; funding
the repairs; replacement of the sign for Studio Estates;
accounting methods; setting the assessment amount; the
Engineering Report; costs charged to the district; itemized
costs; a suggestion to continue the item until additional
clarification can be obtained; and photographic evidence.
Dana Russell expressed concern that his questions were not
being answered; reported seeking answers for many years; he June 23, 2014
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discussed his requests for a schedule of when maintenance is
rendered; and he indicated that he had not seen maintenance
being done in several years.
John Nachbar, City Manager, indicated that staff would look
into the matter.
Mayor Sahli-Wells suggested investigation to make sure that
maintenance was being done in the other assessment districts.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUE THE PUBLIC HEARING
UNTIL JULY 14, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. OR AT SUCH TIME THEREAFTER AS
THE CITY COUNCIL CAN TAKE UP THE MATTER. THE MOTION CARRIED BY
THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
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Item PH-4
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and
Ordering the Levy for the Higuera Street Landscape and
Lighting Assessment District - Fiscal Year 2014/2015
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER June 23, 2014
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Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No speakers came forward and no cards were received.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUE THE PUBLIC HEARING UNTIL
JULY 14, 2014 AT 7:00 P.M. OR AT SUCH TIME THEREAFTER AS THE
CITY COUNCIL CAN TAKE UP THE MATTER. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
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Item PH-7
(Out of Sequence)
Introduction 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
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE: June 23, 2014
16
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Stephen Murray discussed periodic updates to building codes by
the state and he asked the City Council to support the item.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN 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
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL INTRODUCE 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 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. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING
VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O'LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Sol Blumenfeld, Community Development Director, indicated that
the item was an introduction of the ordinance and that there
would be a final reading at the next regular meeting.
o0o June 23, 2014
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Item PH-1
(Out of Sequence)
Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and
Ordering the Levy for Benefit Assessment District West
Washington Boulevard No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2014/201
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN 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
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
a majority protest did not exist.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR THE BENEFIT ASSESSMENT June 23, 2014
18
DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 1 FOR FISCAL YEAR
2014/2015. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Item PH-2
Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and
Ordering the Levy for Benefit Assessment District West
Washington Boulevard No. 2 for Fiscal Year 2014/2015
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY 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
June 23, 2014
19
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
a majority protest did not exist.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING
THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR THE BENEFIT
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 2 FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2014/2015. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O'LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Item PH-3
Adoption of a Resolution Confirming the Assessment and
Ordering the Levy for the Albright Avenue Street Lighting
Assessment District - Fiscal Year 2014/2015
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
June 23, 2014
20
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY 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
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
a majority protest did not exist.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING THE
ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR THE ALBRIGHT AVENUE
STREET LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT - FISCAL YEAR 2014/2015.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING MOTION:
AYES: CLARKE, O'LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Item PH-6
(1) Introduction 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; and (2) Adoption of a Resolution Making
Express Findings for the Modification of the Fire Code Based
on Local Climatic, Geological, and Topographical Conditions
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVITS
OF PUBLISHING AND THE NOTICES OF THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Councilmember Weissman received clarification that the item
was a first reading.
June 23, 2014
21
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported a
minor clarification that was not substantive in nature and he
clarified that the City Council could move forward with the
introduction of the ordinance.
Lisa Vidra, Deputy City Attorney, discussed the definition of
sewer system on page 21 and suggested clarifying language.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN THE PUBLIC HEARING. THE
MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN 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
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING
THE ASSESSMENT AND ORDERING THE LEVY FOR THE BENEFIT
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD NO. 1 FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2014/2015 AS AMENDED. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING
VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O'LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported that
the procedures followed by the City Council for each public
hearing were required by state law.
o0o
June 23, 2014
22
Action Items
Item A-1
(1) Adoption of a Resolution Declaring its Intention to
Initiate a Specific Plan for the Culver City Portion of the
Inglewood Oil Field; and (2) Approval of an Amendment to the
Existing Professional Services Agreement with Aspen
Environmental Group for the Environmental Review, Analysis and
Document Preparation Required by the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) for an Additional Not-To-Exceed Amount of
$350,000
Sherry Jordan, City Attorney’s Office, provided a summary of
the material of record.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
fees and requests for permits; recouping of actual costs; pro
rating costs among the number of wells requesting permits; and
clarification that the item is the initiation of the process;
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Dr. Tom Williams requested clarification regarding what the
money is paying for; discussed approval of the scope; the
previous discussion draft; the definition of hydraulic
fracturing; enhanced oil recovery; concern with fundamental
errors; he asked that the matter be continued; expressed
concern with obtaining an objective, independent review of the
specific plan; discussed the original Aspen contract; the
amendment; staffing; the schedule; he wanted to see all
documentation available online to the public; and he felt it
important to get the document right at the beginning.
Felicia Bander expressed concern with global warming; she
discussed the need to transition away from fossil fuels; and
utilize renewable energy.
Nancy Fierro expressed concern with safety; acidizing; leaks;
accidents; the densely populated area; and she asked that the
process be halted until there is time for clarity and review.
Khin Khin Gyi asserted that it was the right time to establish
baseline parameters and appropriate regulations for June 23, 2014
23
monitoring; she discussed controlling the cost of cleaning up
the runoff; the amount of lead, mercury and radon allowed to
runoff into Ballona Creek by the Regional Water Quality
Control Board; the 12 most commonly used air toxics used in
unconventional oil development in the Los Angeles basin; a
suggestion to follow Beverly Hills and adopt a prohibition of
horizontal drilling under Culver City; she requested that the
scope, schedule, resources and costs could be enumerated in
more detail in the Specific Plan; and she expressed support of
the Sierra Club’s resolution to prohibit the dangerous
techniques for oil operations in Culver City.
Dr. Suzanne de Benedittis noted that the way the Specific Plan
is framed would help determine the outcome; she thanked the
Mayor for attending the conference; she presented a video on
subsidies for oil companies; she discussed neighbors of the
oil field with cancer; the option of putting a moratorium in
place until such practices are proven safe; putting the burden
of proof on the oil companies; putting in the option for a
community rights ordinance in the municipal code; research
validating concerns; enacting land use restrictions; legal
challenges; and offering meaningful protections to the
community.
David Haake presented the Sierra Club’s resolution calling for
a prohibition on fracking in the Culver City portion of the
Inglewood Oil Field; he noted the many negative effects of
unconventional oil and gas extraction methods; he discussed
critical health and environmental hazards for residents; City
zoning ordinances; the validity of prohibiting the production
of oil in designated areas; the ability to withstand legal
challenges; amending the current draft of the Specific Plan;
and he noted that Beverly Hills was able to protect their
residents and that Culver City should be able to as well.
J.E. Brockman expressed disappointment that the draft
ordinance of 2013 would form the basis of how the City moved
forward; she discussed comments submitted to that ordinance;
enforceability; the settlement agreement; the force pooling of
those who refused to sign away their mineral rights by the
Division of Oil and Gas Regulation; bribery; and she asked
that fracking not be allowed in Culver City.
Michelle Weiner expressed support for the Sierra Club
resolution; she did not feel that this was the beginning of
the process for the Specific Plan but rather that it was a June 23, 2014
24
turning point; she discussed widening the streets to
accommodate trucks with high pressure pumps and chemicals for
fracking; the opportunity to protect residents; permits
covering the additional costs with Aspen; positioning the City
to start permitting more drilling; and enforceability of
regulations.
Stephen Murray, Baldwin Hills Oil Watch, echoed previous
comments; discussed the workload for the City Attorney’s
office; the scope; defining the oil field; costs; resources
used for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); an
accurate schedule; clarification; the scheduled completion
date; and he wanted to see the following two lines added to
the Culver City code: “Fracking, acidization and other extreme
forms of oil stimulation is prohibited under Culver City” and
“New oil and gas development is prohibited in and under Culver
City.”
Jeremy Green, Management Analyst, read a written comment
submitted by:
Paul V. Ferrazzi
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, discussed the time period from
when the Discussion Draft came out; workload; regulating oil
operations; issues with the County; the County Community
Standards District (CSD); the heightened conversation on well
stimulation; incorporation of public comments; AB 1132; work
to get legislation passed; amendment of the CSD; Division of
Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources (DOGGR) regulations; the
Council resolution; and the goal to have the revision
completed by September.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the Specific Planning process; the request for CEQA review;
the production of the Specific Plan; returning for the request
for appropriation for funds by the City Council; whether it is
appropriate to have the same organization do the Specific Plan
and CEQA review; bifurcating the process; agreement to put
documentation online; the length of time to produce a Specific
Plan; Aspen Consultants; left over monies in the Aspen
contract; prior experience working with Aspen Environmental;
clarification that whether permits are issued or not, the
money is budgeted; monies subject to reimbursement; posting of June 23, 2014
25
public comments; consideration of comments and prepared
responses; whether the public has the right to see all
comments made; having the same company doing the Specific Plan
and the EIR; public perception; regulatory efforts on the part
of the City; hiring consultants for technical studies; the
CEQA process; requirements; technical documentation; providing
information on Aspen Environmental on the City website;
finding a consultant with oil and gas expertise that has not
also been an industry consultant; addressing concerns with
transparency; confidence in the process; oil drilling impacts
on climate change; whether the draft ordinance is based on the
settlement agreement; getting a comprehensive regulatory
process in the Inglewood Oil Field; the Culver City portion;
impacts of drilling in the County; the City lawsuit against
the County; the CSD settlement; looking for an adequate EIR;
enforceability; mitigation measures; the Specific Plan
Process; mandatory hearings; opportunities for public input;
the hearing process; clarification that the City is not locked
in to a process that is insufficient; feedback from Freeport
that the City is potentially overreaching vs. concern from the
community that the City is not going far enough; thoroughly
analyzing the scope of the proposal; the intent to produce a
responsible ordinance that protects the community; the current
status of oil drilling operations under the 2003 ordinance;
the number of active wells in the City; current regulations
and permits needed; the discretionary process; the need for
environmental review; the need to get good regulations in
place; the Beverly Hills ban on slant drilling under their
city; litigation concerns; adding a chemical marker to track
water contamination; the Environmental Protection Agency; the
Sierra Club resolution; amending the Specific Plan to ban
fracking; the current discussion draft; the placeholder; going
forward to use the planning process; technical capabilities;
oil field boundaries; the minimum public comment period;
regulation of what is happening underground; where drilling
takes place in the City at whatever the depth; the estimated
timeline; continual changes; the inadvisability of being
locked into a specific meeting schedule; the importance of the
process; and access to oil company comments.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION DECLARING
ITS INTENTION TO INITIATE A SPECIFIC PLAN FOR THE CULVER CITY
PORTION OF THE INGLEWOOD OIL FIELD. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE
FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN June 23, 2014
26
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Councilmember Clarke requested that the agreement with Aspen
Environmental be brought back to the City Council after the
Aspen contract and background information, along with any
public comments made on the discussion document, have been
posted for public consideration on the City website.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER CLARKE AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL CONTINUE APPROVAL OF AN
AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
ASPEN ENVIRONMENTAL GROUP FOR THE ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW,
ANALYSIS AND DOCUMENT PREPARATION REQUIRED BY THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT IN AN ADDITIONAL NOT-TO-EXCEED
AMOUNT OF $350,000 TO THE JULY 14, 2014 CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
Mayor Sahli-Wells thanked everyone for their input.
o0o
Item A-2
Consideration of (1) A Request for Waivers of the Permit
Application Fee, Technology Surcharge, and Installation Fee
for Banners to be Displayed in the Public Right-of-Way for
Culver City’s Boulevard Music Summer Festival-2014; and 2)
Extension of the Time Period Allowed for the Banners to be
Displayed
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER WEISSMAN AND SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
O’LEARY THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE THE WAIVERS FOR THE $119 BANNER PERMIT APPLICATION
FEE; THE $40.16 TECHNOLOGY FEE; AND THE $885 BANNER
INSTALLATION COST; AND,
June 23, 2014
27
2. EXTEND THE ONE MONTH ALLOWABLE TIME TO DISPLAY THE 2014
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES BANNERS TO ALLOW THE THREE BANNERS TO BE
DISPLAYED UP TO 60 DAYS TO ALLOW FOR DISPLAY PRIOR TO THE
FIRST CONCERT AND REMOVAL FOLLOWING THE SIXTH AND FINAL
CONCERT. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Item A-3
(1) Consideration of a Recommendation from the Cultural
Affairs Commission Related to the Format and Release of a
Request for Proposals for the 2015 Summer Concert Series and
(2) (If Desired) Authorization to Release a Request for
Proposals for Production Services for the 2015 Summer Concert
Series
Shelly Wolfberg, Assistant to the City Manager, discussed the
budget for the 2014 Summer Concert series; the amount paid to
Gary Mandell; the new model being proposed; information
included in the RFP; the work of the Cultural Affairs
Commission; and responsibility for maintenance costs.
Discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers regarding
the responsibility for maintenance costs above $20,000;
producer responsibilities; origin of the money being paid to
Mr. Mandell; the burden of fundraising and expense; the
Cultural Trust Fund; the funding source; Commission
consideration of the RFP; the RFP process; funding allocated
to the ultimate contract; costs borne by the producer;
sufficient fund balance for the series; effects to other
programs; how much the budget for the program was cut; the
ability of Mr. Mandell to offer the program at a very low
price; efforts to obtain a competitive bid; the balance of the
Cultural Trust Fund; parameters for spending the money; Art in
Public Places; the amount of money that can be allocated for
performing arts; the amount of construction activity from year
to year; revenue fluctuations; and the availability of money
for performing arts grants.
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
June 23, 2014
28
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Marla Koosed, Cultural Affairs Commission Chair, provided
clarification on money allocated toward the performing arts
from the Cultural Trust Fund; discussed Sony matching funds
for the performing arts grants; the Art in Public Places
ordinance; the balance between hard art and performing art;
she indicated that she did not sit on the RFP subcommittee;
discussed the level of producers available; and monies
necessary to clean up the area.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding putting items out to bid; concern with putting out
the proposal and not being able to sustain it in the long run;
competition for monies; concern with building in the coming
years; the success of the current series; setting
expectations; concern with disrupting a successful model;
fundamental changes to the series; moving the series to Town
Plaza at some point in the future; a suggestion to change the
RFP to question what the producer would provide rather than
indicating what the City would provide; a suggestion to
include the banners in the RFP; insurance and liability;
overseeing cleanup operations; proposed producer
responsibilities; attracting bidders; a feeling that the
proposed RFP is more like a grant proposal than an RFP;
handling costs for additional concerts proposed; being
cognizant of the capacity of the existing venue; over
burdening the system; clarification that the RFP is for one
year; whether there could be an expectation for additional
years; flexibility; the established product; the ability to
build the event; and the potential for multiple years.
Marla Koosed noted that the intent of the Commission was that
there could be an RFP process; she clarified the amount of
money spent on the music; discussed influencing the quality
and variety of music offered to the community; producer
tastes; the new location in the future; feedback from the
Downtown Business Association that the event does not help
their businesses; and the bidding process.
Further discussion ensued between staff and Councilmembers
regarding assurance that the monetary commitment can be
sustained over the long run; concern with raising
expectations; responses to the previous RFP in 2008; negative
reaction from the community when the number of concerts was
reduced from 12 to 6; considering changes when Town Plaza June 23, 2014
29
opens; the success of the series produced by the current
producer; the survey conducted; previous consideration of
moving the day and time of the concert; releasing an RFP that
would resemble more of what exists today; whether an RFP is
necessary at this time; maintaining the current format; asking
the developer and tenants of Parcel B to contribute to the
efforts; funding stability; stimulating activity at the site;
creating a partnership; cultivating that opportunity in
advance; laying foundations to move forward with a good
proposal; concern with fairness; being unwilling to pay the
current producer what is being offered to someone else; a
suggestion to continue the item; using an RFP vs. a grant;
timing of the RFP; notice to concert producers; whether the
current producer chooses to continue; long term planning;
support for the proposal and the work that went into it; and
whether additional funding could be considered for the future.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
CLARKE THAT THE CITY MANAGER BRING BACK THE RFP WHEN PARCEL B
IS READY TO ACCOMMODATE THE SUMMER CONCERT SERIES WITH
COMMISSION INPUT AS TO WHEN IS THE PROPER TIME TO MOVE
FORWARD. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Item A-4
(1) Consideration of a Recommendation from the Finance
Advisory Committee and (2) (If Desired) Adoption of
Resolutions Approving City Council Policies on the Following
Subjects: Budget Development and Administration; Financial
Policies; Recreation Facilities Reserve; and Investment Policy
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Goran Eriksson, Chair of the Finance Advisory Committee,
discussed the work of the Committee and the upcoming
benchmarking project the Committee plans to undertake in
August. June 23, 2014
30
Councilmember Clarke received clarification from Mr. Eriksson
regarding the budget process and additional consideration by
the Committee in October and November.
Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and staff regarding
support for the Finance Advisory Committee; appreciation for
the recommendations made; exceeding the reserve policy amount;
Capital Improvement Projects; facility improvements; deferred
maintenance; the policy for a surplus at the end of the year;
the Facilities Reserve; the ability to take action to override
the policy; frequency of reports on the City’s investment
portfolio and cash position; posting of the reports online;
agreement to a quarterly presentation to the City Council;
funding for maintenance of recreational facilities; the Park
Fund Policy proposal; the Quimby Act; protection and
reimbursement of reserves; appreciation to staff and to the
Committee; the creation of the Recreational Facilities
Reserve; a suggestion to invite the Finance Advisory Committee
to a City Council meeting for public recognition; the sales
tax initiative; and monitoring performance.
MOVED BY VICE MAYOR O’LEARY AND SECONDED BY COUNCILMEMBER
WEISSMAN THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A CITY COUNCIL POLICY RELATED TO
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT AND ADMINISTRATION; AND,
2. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A CITY COUNCIL POLICY RELATED TO
FINANCIAL POLICIES; AND
3. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A CITY COUNCIL POLICY RELATED TO
RECREATION FACILITIES RESERVE; AND
4. ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2014-2015
INVESTMENT POLICY. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, O’LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS, WEISSMAN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: COOPER
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
June 23, 2014
31
Mayor Sahli-Wells invited public comment.
No speakers came forward and no cards were received.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Items from Councilmember Clarke
• Encouraged anyone interested in participating in the
Culver City Centennial to send and email to:
culvercity100@gmail.com
• Announced fireworks at West Los Angeles College on July 4
Items from Councilmember Weissman
• Announced the first summer concert on July 10
o0o
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 11:17 p.m., the City Council
adjourned its meeting to Monday, July 14, 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
June 23, 2014
32
_____________________________________
MEGHAN SAHLI-WELLS
MAYOR of Culver City, California