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THESE MINUTES ARE NOT OFFICIAL
UNTIL APPROVED BY THE
CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE June 22, 2015
CITY COUNCIL 5:30 p.m.
CULVER CITY, CALIFORNIA
Call to Order & Roll Call
Mayor O'Leary called the meeting of the City Council to order
at 5:30 p.m. in the Mike Balkman Chambers at City Hall.
Present: Micheál O‘Leary, Mayor
Andrew Weissman, Vice Mayor
Jim B. Clarke, Council Member
Jeffrey Cooper, Council Member
Meghan Sahli-Wells, Council Member
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Closed Session
The City Council recessed to Closed Session to consider
the following items:
CS-1 Public Employee Performance Evaluation
Title: City Manager
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54958
CS-2 Conference with Real Property Negotiators
Re: Telecommunications Tower Located in Culver City Park
City Negotiators: City Manager John Nachbar; Assistant City
Manager Martin Cole
Under Negotiation: Both Terms and Price
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8
June 22, 2015
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CS-3 Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation
Re: Initiation of Litigation - 1 Matter
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4)
CS-4 Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation
Re: Significant Exposure to Litigation (1 item)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2)
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Reconvene
Mayor O'Leary reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:12
p.m. with all Council Members present.
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Report on Action Taken in Closed Session
Mayor O'Leary indicated nothing to report out of closed
session.
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Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance
The Invocation was given by Mayor O'Leary who asked for a
moment of silence to remember those who lost their lives
in the balcony collapse in Berkeley, California and in
Charleston, South Carolina. The Pledge of Allegiance was
led by West LA College President Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh.
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Presentations
Item P-1
Presentation of a Certificate of Recognition to Family Self
Sufficiency Program Graduate Cheryl Waterford.
Mayor O'Leary presented a Certificate of Recognition to
Family Self Sufficiency Program Graduate Cheryl Waterford.
Ms. Waterford thanked the City for the certificate and
discussed her plans for the future.
June 22, 2015
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Community Announcements by City Council Members/
Information Items from Staff
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT WHEN THE MEETING IS
ADJOURNED THAT IT BE ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF LEE WOLKOWITZ,
THE STUDENTS KILLED IN BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA AND THE VICTIMS
OF THE CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA SHOOTING.
Council Member Sahli-Wells announced the upcoming Culver City
Amateur Radio Emergency Services (CCARES) Field Day; the
Boulevard Music Summer Concert Series at City Hall on
Thursdays from July 9 through August 13; and she received
clarification regarding follow-up on issues that a resident
was having with construction at her neighbor's house.
Council Member Clarke announced the Annual Exchange Club
Fireworks Show on July 4 at West LA College.
Mayor O'Leary announced a Household Hazardous Waste
Collection Day on June 27 in the Wende Museum Parking Lot,
and he reported that the US Women's Soccer Team had just
advanced to the Quarter Finals of the World Cup.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported a
request from the City Manager that item PH-1, the Public
Hearing about Parcel B, be continued to the July 13, 2015
City Council meeting noting that no speaker cards had been
received.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COOPER, AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT ITEM PH-1 BE CONTINUED
TO THE JULY 13, 2015 CITY COUNCIL MEETING.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported a
request from the City Manager that that City Council consider
Item A-3 before item JPH-1, and he received City Council
consensus to do so.
Paul Condran, Fleet Services Manager, introduced staff and
announced that Culver City had been chosen as an Elite Fleet
for 2015.
June 22, 2015
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Mayor O'Leary received clarification that Culver City had
previously been chosen as the Number 1 Public Fleet in the
Country.
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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:
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, explained
procedures for public speaking.
Nabil Abu-Ghazaleh, President of West LA College,
discussed the positive relationship forged between West LA
College and the City, noted his upcoming departure from
West LA College, and mentioned that a new president would
be coming in October 2015.
Council Members thanked Mr. Abu-Ghazaleh for his work in
improving the relationship between the City and the
College and wished him well.
Barbara Silverstein expressed concern that the Senior
Center still did not have a patio ten years after the
money was put aside, and she suggested that money could be
generated by renting the area for wedding receptions.
Dan Hernandez, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Director, reported that the item was the priority item in
the workplan for Fiscal Year 2015/2016.
Amy Levit expressed concern with the size of new homes
going in; house flipping; encroachment of neighboring
homes; a home going in on the 4300 block of Motor Avenue;
and she asked that the City look at what is going on in
the neighborhoods.
Sandy Munro echoed concerns regarding “mansionization” of
the City and asked for a moratorium on rapid development.
Karen Gibbs, Fiesta La Ballona Committee, thanked the
sponsorship committee for their efforts.
June 22, 2015
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Marcus Tiggs, Fiesta La Ballona Committee, read the names
of early sponsors and indicated that it was not too late
to join as a sponsor.
Terry Silberman expressed concern with weak City zoning
for residences; with an additional residence constructed
in her neighbor's yard larger than the primary residence;
with violations of R-1 zoning and accessory structures;
oversized homes proliferating throughout the City; the
loss of privacy, sunlight and views; concern with impacts
on the community; development that destroys the character
of the neighborhood; and she asked for a moratorium on
construction with excessive square footage to allow time
to design and implement new ordinances to protect and
preserve the neighborhoods.
Wendi Mirabella expressed concern with loss of privacy;
home to lot size ratio; the vote against the moratorium at
the last City Council meeting; setbacks; she discussed
other communities that have looked at the concerns of the
neighbors; and she asked that the moratorium be
reconsidered.
Iain Gulin provided an update on the efforts of residents
concerned with “mansionization”; reported meeting with
about 60 residents at Vets Memorial Auditorium where
concerns were raised about increased over development in
the City; he discussed developers present at the meeting;
pushing the zoning envelope as a form of profit taking;
the current market demand; oversized, out of character
homes; he expressed concern with previous inadequate
public notification of the issue; and he asked that the 45
day moratorium be revisited or that there be a discussion
of an aggressive timeline on the matter.
Sara Hartley, architect and municipal planner, expressed
concern with the size of houses going up in the City;
antiquated zoning; she encouraged City staff to visit 4239
Vinton Avenue to observe encroachments; she expressed
concern with safety noting that the City had been designed
as small working class neighborhoods; she discussed
setbacks; and fire safety.
Kay Heineman, Senior Citizens Association, expressed
concern about an unfilled bequest for improving the Culver
City Senior Center patio, and she expressed hope that the
project would remain a high priority. June 22, 2015
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Benita Karroll, Carlson Park resident, expressed concern
with a large house going up next door to hers and privacy
issues; she observed that developers do not care about
residents but rather are just looking to flip the homes
and make a profit; and she asked that the City consider a
moratorium and look at more restrictive zoning or
landscaping requirements.
Kyle Valentic asked that any development be done with
respect for the neighbors, and discussed lot size and
sustainable growth in Culver City.
Ross Hawkins thanked Council Member Sahli-Wells for
attending the community meeting at Veterans Auditorium
regarding “mansionization” in the City; he noted that 3 of
the 5 speakers that favored less restrictions were
developers; he felt that property ownership was an
important element of the City; and he hoped that the City
Council would maintain ratios.
Marty Hente, CCARES; invited everyone to a demonstration
of what amateur radio can do on June 27-28 behind Fire
Station #1, and he discussed the event and the importance
of HAM radio.
Melissa Sanders, Essential Chocolate Desserts, hoped that
the City Council would encourage the City to allow small
businesses to take advantage of CicLAvia and allow tables
to be on the sidewalk with banners that encourage people
to stop in to the businesses.
Staff agreed to follow up with Ms. Sanders.
Michael Haase discussed encroachment onto his property
line; the importance of considering the human factor in
the building and planning process; felt that surveys
should be done prior to building; expressed concern with
infringing on neighboring property; and he asked the City
to support concerned residents.
Philip Lelyveld discussed development on Vinton Avenue;
code compliant housing; negative impacts to older adjacent
single family properties designed for a purely single
story neighborhood; simple code modifications that would
have minimal impact on overall new construction costs and
more fairly balance the long term environmental impact and June 22, 2015
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quality of life of new two story single family
construction on neighboring property; and he expressed
support for a moratorium until the code is amended to more
equitably protect the property rights and quality of life
for all R-1 property owners in the City.
Ann Lefton presented a video from Jeff Bosson expressing
concerns about 4312 Motor Avenue.
Lance Richter wanted to see the building codes examined to
reduce the size and mass of houses currently being allowed
in Culver City; discussed impacts to the neighbors by the
large houses built next door; property values; protecting
the small homes from the huge homes; adequate separation;
and he urged the City Council to reexamine the building
codes as soon as possible.
Jennifer Mulder, Vox Femina, discussed the mission of the
organization; a planned expansion; and she invited
everyone to attend the first Bike Ride for Music
fundraiser on June 27 at the Culver City Park.
Lisa Schultz, The Peace Project, reported on the success
of the Affair of the Arts on Parcel B; apologized for a
previous contentious remark she made; expressed
appreciation for the support from the City and area
businesses; indicated that they would provide a recap with
information on exposure that the City got through their
participation; and she announced the next event on
September 19-20 noting that they were looking to grow and
expand the community event.
Stephen Murray, LAX Community Noise Roundtable, reported
that the Federal Aviation Administration Draft
Environmental Assessment had been released on June 10; he
discussed key differences with the new flight path; noise
levels; and anticipated changes.
Mayor O'Leary suggested that Mr. Murray get the
information to staff for a presentation at the next
meeting.
Council Member Sahli-Wells explained that the FAA is
redesigning the flight paths; she discussed the 30-day
comment period; the requests made for additional time for
the comment period; an open house that she attended with
the City Attorney; she provided comment cards for June 22, 2015
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residents to submit directly to the FAA; sources for
additional information; and she encouraged everyone to
make any comments they wished whether they were technical
or not.
Carol Schwab, City Attorney, indicated that the comment
cards to the FAA could be made available on the City
website with a link; she agreed that comments did not have
to be technical; she reported that the City Council had
engaged a consultant to do research; she noted that the
next City Council meeting would occur after the comment
period was over; and she discussed the request for an
extension to the comment period.
Mayor O'Leary suggested that a staff report on the
information provided by Mr. Murray be made available on
the City website.
Carol Schwab noted that the information was very technical
but that staff would work to clarify the information for
the website.
Cary Anderson discussed “mansionization”; noted that in
the old days one had to get the permission of the
neighbors before making significant changes; discussed his
efforts speaking about parking in the City; comments that
his statements about parking were anecdotal; and he
indicated that he was finished with being marginalized.
Michelle Weiner reported attending the recent community
meeting about “mansionization”; she expressed concern with
contention in the community; she questioned what ideas the
Council Members had to address the issues and how to set
policy; and she asked why the City Council had an
objection to a moratorium until the codes can be updated.
Georges Chamchoum, Asian World Film Festival, reported
that the festival would be held in Culver City October 26
- November 2; discussed the festival; sponsors; and he
asked about collaborating with the City.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, read
written comments submitted by:
Laurie Wolcutt
Beatrice Blaauw
Linda Asklof June 22, 2015
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Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members
regarding the Study Session planned with the Planning
Commission and ensuring that notification procedures are
extensive.
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Receipt and Filing of Correspondence
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, reported
that correspondence received by the City Clerk's Office by
3:45 p.m. on items A-1 and A-3 and two items not on the
agenda had been distributed to Council Members and would
become part of the public record.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL
MEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL RECEIVE AND FILE CORRESPONDENCE.
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JOINT CONSENT CALENDAR
Item JC-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/CULVER CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY/SUCCESSOR
AGENCY TO THE CULVER CITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AGENDA
ITEM: Cash Disbursements for May 30, 2015 - June 12, 2015
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CASH DISBURSEMENTS FOR MAY 30, 2015 - JUNE 12,
2015.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS C-1, C-3, C-4 AND C-6
THROUGH C-10.
Item C-1 June 22, 2015
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Meeting Minutes
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE MINUTES FOR THE SPECIAL
MEETING OF JUNE 2, 2015 AND THE REGULAR MEETING OF JUNE 8,
2015.
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Item C-3
Receive and File the Measure Y Sales Tax Status Report as
Approved by the Finance Advisory Committee
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: RECEIVE AND FILE THE MEASURE Y SALES
TAX STATUS REPORT AS APPROVED BY THE FINANCE ADVISORY
COMMITTEE.
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Item C-4
Approval of a Professional Services Agreement with DFS
Flooring for the Re-carpeting of all Three Floors of City
Hall in an Aggregate Amount Not-to-Exceed $384,613.00
($349,648.00 Base Contract and $34,965 in Change Order
Authority)
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DFS
FLOORING FOR THE RE-CARPETING OF CITY HALL IN AN AGGREGATE
AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $384,613.00 ($349,648.00 BASE CONTRACT
AND $34,965 IN CHANGE ORDER AUTHORITY); AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO
APPROVE CHANGE ORDERS UP TO $34,965; 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-6
June 22, 2015
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Approval of a Purchase Order to American Seating Company for
the Purchase of Transit Bus Seating Barriers in an Amount
Not-to-Exceed $76,700
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER TO AMERICAN SEATING COMPANY FOR
AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $76,700;
2. AUTHORIZE THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER TO REVIEW/PREPARE
THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3. AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY.
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Item C-7
Approval of an Amendment to the Existing Professional
Service Agreement with Amano McGann Inc., for Maintenance
Services Related to Equipment and Software for the Parking
Management System at the Cardiff, Watseka, and Ince
Parking Structures to Extend the Agreement for One
Additional Year (to 06/30/16) for a Not-to-Exceed
Additional Cost of $50,222.40
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH AMANO MCGANN, FOR MAINTENANCE AND
REPAIR SERVICES OF THE ACCESS EQUIPMENT AND SOFTWARE
SYSTEM IN THE CARDIFF, WATSEKA, AND INCE PARKING
STRUCTURES TO EXTEND THE AGREEMENT FOR ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR
(TO 06/30/16) FOR A NOT-TO-EXCEED ADDITIONAL COST OF
$50,222.40; 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-8
June 22, 2015
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Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Culver City Firefighters Local
1927, AFL-CIO (CCFF) for the Period of January 1, 2015
through December 31, 2019, which Includes an Option for
Extension of the Term for One Additional Year (to December
31, 2020) at the Discretion of the CCFF
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE
CULVER CITY FIREFIGHTERS LOCAL 1927, AFL-CIO FOR THE
PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2015 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2019
INCLUDING AN OPTION WHICH THE CULVER CITY FIREFIGHTERS
LOCAL 1927, AFL-CIO MAY EXERCISE TO EXTEND THE MOU FOR ONE
ADDITIONAL YEAR (TO DECEMBER 31, 2020).
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Item C-9
Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Culver City Police Management Group
for the Period of July 1, 2015 through December 31, 2020
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING A
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND THE
CULVER CITY POLICE MANAGEMENT GROUP FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY
1, 2015 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2020.
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Item C-10
Adoption of a Resolution Approving Amendments to the Civil
Service Rules as Recommended by the Civil Service
Commission
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL: ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING
AMENDMENTS TO THE CIVIL SERVICE RULES AS RECOMMENDED BY
THE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION.
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Item C-2
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of a Purchase Order for the Acquisition of Two June 22, 2015
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Hundred Sixty (260) Office Desk Chairs from Systems Source
Office Systems and Furnishings in an Amount Not-to-Exceed
$153,349.14
Council Member Clarke suggested that the older, surplus
chairs could be donated to non-profits in the City.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
amending the code; whether it would be considered a gift of
public funds; criteria; developing a process; liability; and
Council consensus to move forward.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CLARKE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COOPER AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1. APPROVE A PURCHASE ORDER FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF TWO-
HUNDRED SIXTY (260) DESK CHAIRS FROM SYSTEMS SOURCE OFFICE
SYSTEMS AND FURNISHINGS IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED
$153,349.14; AND,
2. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASING OFFICER TO ISSUE SUCH PURCHASE
ORDER.
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Item C-5
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of On-Call Professional Services Agreements with (1)
APD Consultants Inc., Cannon, Civil Source, Inc. KOA
Corporation, MNS Engineers, Inc., Pacifica Services Inc.,
PacRim Engineering, RTI Consulting Inc., VA Consulting Inc.,
Willdan; Paller-Roberts Engineering, Inc., and SA Associates
(Design Only), Interwest Consulting Group and The Nickerson
Company (Construction Management and Inspection Only), for
General Civil Engineering Services; and with (2) Associated
Soils Engineering, Inc., Geo-Environmental, Inc., Kling
Consulting Group, Inc., LaBelle-Marvin, Inc., Ninyo and
Moore Consultants, and Terracon Consultants, Inc. for
Geotechnical Engineering and Material Testing Services; to
Support the Capital Improvement Program, from July 1, 2015 to
June 30, 2018, in an Aggregate Amount Not-to-Exceed
$4,000,000
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER COOPER, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
June 22, 2015
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1) APPROVE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH (1) APD
CONSULTANTS INC., CANNON, CIVIL SOURCE, INC. KOA CORPORATION,
MNS ENGINEERS, INC., PACIFICA SERVICES INC., PACRIM
ENGINEERING, RTI CONSULTING INC., VA CONSULTING INC.,
WILLDAN; PALLER-ROBERTS ENGINEERING, INC., AND SA ASSOCIATES
(DESIGN ONLY), AND INTERWEST CONSULTING GROUP FOR GENERAL
CIVIL ENGINEERING SERVICES; AND (2) ASSOCIATED SOILS
ENGINEERING, INC., GEO-ENVIRONMENTAL, INC., KLING CONSULTING
GROUP, INC., LABELLE-MARVIN, INC., NINYO AND MOORE
CONSULTANTS, AND TERRACON CONSULTANTS, INC. FOR GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEERING AND MATERIALS TESTING SERVICES, TO SUPPORT THE
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM, FROM JULY 1, 2015 TO JUNE 30,
2018, IN AN AGGREGATE NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $4,000,000;
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.
Vice Mayor Weissman indicated that the Nickerson Company is a
client of his, and he recused himself from the item.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS AND SECONDED BY COUNCIL
MEMBER CLARKE THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVE A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE
NICKERSON COMPANY (CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION
ONLY), AND,
2) AUTHORIZE THE CITY ATTORNEY TO REVIEW/PREPARE THE
NECESSARY DOCUMENTS; AND,
3) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE SUCH DOCUMENTS ON
BEHALF OF THE CITY. THE MOTION CARRIED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:
AYES: CLARKE, COOPER, O'LEARY, SAHLI-WELLS
NOES: NONE
RECUSED: WEISSMAN
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Item C-11
(Out of Sequence)
Approval of City Sponsorship for the 2015 CicLAvia Event, June 22, 2015
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Produced by CicLAvia, a Non-Profit Organization, to be
Partially Held in Culver City
Council Member Sahli-Wells discussed CicLAvia on August 9;
the increase in business near the CicLAvia hub; she
thanked staff for working hard on the grant and the Police
Department for making the event safe; and invited everyone
to participate.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL
MEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL:
1. DETERMINED THAT THE CITY IS PARTICIPATING IN AN
OFFICIAL CAPACITY IN THE PLANNING, PREPARATION OR
PROMOTION OF THE CICLAVIA CULVER CITY 2015 EVENT; AND,
2. DETERMINED THAT THE CITY IS CONTRIBUTING 25% OF THE
TOTAL ESTIMATED COSTS OF THE CIVIC EVENT OR ACTIVITY OR AT
LEAST $1,000, WHICHEVER IS LESS; AND,
3. DESIGNATED THE CICLAVIA CULVER CITY 2015 EVENT AS A
CITY SPONSORED EVENT.
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Order of the Agenda
Mayor O'Leary honored the request that Item A-3 be brought
forward.
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Item A-3
(Out of Sequence)
(1) Discussion of Design Concept “A ” and the Related Budget
for the Rehabilitation of the Playground for Children Ages 2
– 5 at Syd Kronenthal Park; and (2) Consideration of
Directing the City Manager to Include in the City Council
Adopted Budget for Fiscal Year 2015/2016 a Budget Adjustment
of $75,523.80 from the General Fund to Augment the Remaining
$62,051.20 in Proposition A Cities Excess Grant Funds to Fund
the Project in the Aggregate Amount of $137,575.00 Subject to
Receipt of Final Grant Funding Approval by the County of Los
Angeles Regional Park and Open Space District
June 22, 2015
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Mayor O'Leary invited public input.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Eric Paezel thanked the City for their responsiveness to the
issue.
Ken Mand thanked the City Council and staff for their
responsiveness and efforts to address resident concerns.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
the life cycle of the remaining area of the park that did not
get upgraded; cost estimates for option A; lessons learned
and changes to the process for the future; whether the
original application could have included both areas; County
authorization of the use of the funds for the project;
appreciation to the community for being proactive;
appreciation to staff for their efforts; demands on Parks,
Recreation and Community Services; the joint meeting;
clarification that the motion is contingent on County
approval of using the remaining grant monies for the project
and granting an extension; clarification that if
authorization is not given the funds would go back to their
original purpose for the shade structure; clarification that
funding would come out of the General Fund revenues or
reserves; and clarification that the project would be added
to the Capital Improvements Project list and staff would get
to it as soon as possible once approval is received.
MOVED BY MAYOR O'LEARY, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-
WELLS AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
(1) APPROVE DESIGN CONCEPT “A” AND THE RELATED COST
ESTIMATE FOR THE REHABILITATION OF THE PLAYGROUND FOR
CHILDREN AGES 2 – 5 AT SYD KRONENTHAL PARK (SK PARK); AND,
(2) DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO INCLUDE IN THE CITY COUNCIL
ADOPTED BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015/2016 A BUDGET
ADJUSTMENT OF $75,523.80 FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO AUGMENT
THE REMAINING $62,051.20 IN PROPOSITION A CITIES EXCESS
FUNDS TO FUND THE ESTIMATED PROJECT COSTS OF $137,575.00,
SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES REGIONAL
PARK AND OPEN SPACE DISTRICT (RPOSD); AND,
June 22, 2015
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(3) AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO TAKE ALL ACTIONS
NECESSARY TO SUBMIT THE PROPOSED PROJECT TO THE RPOSD FOR
APPROVAL.
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Joint Public Hearings
Item JPH-1
JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD/HOUSING AUTHORITY
BOARD/PARKING AUTHORITY BOARD AGENDA ITEM: 1) Adoption of a
City Council Resolution Approving and Adopting the Annual
Appropriations Limit for Fiscal Year 2015/2016; and 2)
Adoption of Respective Resolutions Adopting the Fiscal Year
2015/2016 Budget for the City of Culver City, the Successor
Agency to the Culver City Redevelopment Agency; the Culver
City Housing Authority, and the Culver City Parking Authority
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL
MEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
RECEIVE AND FILE THE AFFIDAVIT OF PUBLICATION AND POSTING OF
PUBLIC NOTICES.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OPEN
THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Mayor O'Leary invited public participation.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Cary Anderson noted that on May 26, 2015 equipment and two
new Parking Enforcement Officers (PEOs) were approved; he
asserted that he had been marginalized on the issue;
discussed different interactions that he had with Council
Members and staff; the number of tickets written during the
Car Show; instructions to PEOs to go to areas other than
around the Summer Concert series; he reported being bullied
by Culver City Unified School District employees when he
pointed out parking infractions; noted that the Fire
Department used to be in charge of PEOs so it wasn't so June 22, 2015
18
politicized; he discussed policies of other cities; and he
expressed concern that more money was being put in the budget
to address an issue that can't be addressed when the Police
Department and Supervisors tell employees to look the other
way.
Jeff Muir, Chief Financial Officer, discussed items added to
the budget after the initial proposed budget.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
appreciation to the Finance Advisory Committee and staff for
their hard work; the process; transparency and openness;
awards received; infrastructure; making critical investments;
reserve requirements; urban runoff; fines; critical
improvements; water conservation; the Rental Assistance
Program; the Transit Oriented District; streetscapes; the
Habitat for Humanity Project; core services in the City; and
the Municipal Fiber Project.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL
MEMBER CLARKE AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL
CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING.
MOVED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SAHLI-WELLS, SECONDED BY VICE MAYOR
WEISSMAN AND UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPT
A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING THE ANNUAL APPROPRIATIONS
LIMIT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2015/2016 AND ADOPTING A RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPTED BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR
2015/2016.
o0o
Public Hearings
Item PH-1
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM: PUBLIC HEARING (#4 only) AND FOUR-
FIFTHS VOTE REQUIREMENT (#2 and #4 only)- (1) Approval of
Revised Designs for the Town Plaza Expansion Improvements and
the Public Parking Improvements Located At and Adjacent to
9300 Culver Boulevard (Parcel B); (2) (Four-Fifths Vote
Requirement) Approval of a Budget Amendment to Reallocate and
Appropriate Tax-exempt Bond Funds for the Parcel B Public
Parking Improvements and Town Plaza Expansion Improvements;
(3) Approval of Three Separate Agreements Implementing
Various Aspects of the Disposition and Development Agreement
between the City of Culver City and Combined/Hudson 9300 June 22, 2015
19
Culver, LLC, for the Development of the Parcel B Improvements
and the Public Parking and Town Plaza Expansion Improvements;
and (4) (Public Hearing and Four-Fifths Vote Requirement)
Waiver of Formal Bid Procedures for the Construction of
Public Parking and Town Plaza Expansion Improvements Located
At and Adjacent to Parcel B
The Public Hearing for this item was continued to July 13,
2015 at 7:00 PM. The City Council did not take action on any
other items associated with the Agenda Item.
o0o
Action Items
Item A-1
(1) Adoption of a Resolution Declaring the Existence of Level
2 Water Supply Shortage Conditions and Implementing
Mandatory Conservation Requirements per Chapter 5.03, Water
Conservation, of the Culver City Municipal Code and (2)
Introduction of an Ordinance Amending Section 5.03.040 of the
Culver City Municipal Code Pertaining to Swimming Pools
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
filling of new swimming pools; actions of surrounding
jurisdictions with Level 2 Water Restrictions in place; Level
3 Water Restrictions; cities with 5 stages; and clarification
that Culver City is proposing to skip over Level 1 and go to
Level 2.
Mayor O'Leary invited public participation.
The following members of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Barry Miller, Aqua Creations, discussed proposed maintenance
limitations; greater efficiencies with new swimming pools; he
asserted that pools were used by the neighborhood and brought
the community together; and he felt it could be hazardous to
adopt the proposed restriction on filling new pools.
Jill DiGiovanni, Poolcorp, requested the deletion of the
proposed pool and spa filling restriction; she outlined ways
that pools and spas save water; felt that draining a cracked
or leaking pool saved more water than refilling it
constantly; felt that the amount of conservation was not June 22, 2015
20
significant enough to affect the City but would have a
detrimental effect to a segment in the economy; asserted that
they were working to be part of the solution; and she asked
the that proposal be overturned.
Randy Bauer, Symphony Pools, expressed opposition to the ban
on filling and refilling swimming pools; felt that they
should not be singled out; provided statistics indicating how
pools can save water; felt that the proposed ban would not
achieve a significant amount of savings; discussed the annual
average amount of new pools in the City; asserted that they
were working to be part of the solution; discussed economic
activity generated by the spa and pool industry; asserted
that the proposed changes would place considerable hardship
on the industry; and he reported that the Governor had made
it clear that restrictions should not be passed that would
heavily impact any one industry.
Mayor O’Leary received clarification regarding water use for
a lawn vs. water usage by a swimming pool including the
initial fill process.
Kimo Horn, California Pools, provided fact sheets to the City
Council; felt that the ban far exceeded what the Governor was
asking them to do; discussed actions of area cities; asserted
that the City should require pool covers to save water rather
than banning the initial fill; asserted that they were just
coming out of the recession and that an El Niño was coming;
he felt things should be kept status quo; discussed water
savings during pool construction; and he expressed opposition
to the proposed ban.
Steve Newton reported attending the Golden State Water
meeting at Veterans Auditorium; discussed changes his
neighbors have made to irrigation; discussed his water
conservation efforts; new construction and increased water
use; he expressed concern with timing of the advertising in
the Culver City News; punishments from Golden State Water if
restrictions are not achieved; concern with the lack of
infrastructure repair; and violations for leaks.
Stephen Murray noted that comparing turf with pools was not
appropriate; discussed covered pools; his own efforts to
conserve water; the goal of 20% savings by the City; the
importance of saving water; the uncertainty of the length of
the drought; he supported the movement to Level 2; and he
encouraged the City to incorporate suggestions from the State June 22, 2015
21
and Golden State Water Company as well addressing turf in the
parkways.
Goran Eriksson noted that one size fits all restrictions
would be difficult; suggested that the City listen to the
pool experts; discussed his experiences saving water with a
pool cover; suggested encouraging people to get a cover for
their pool; and incorporating flexibility with lawn watering.
Ric Burgess, Independent Pool and Spa Services Association,
discussed proactive measures the pool industry has taken for
water conservation; alternatives; and repair of leaks.
Sylvia Alvarado, Brian's Orchard Youth Alliance, expressed
concern with a lack of water for trees in the median strips;
discussed the importance of trees; and asked that the trees
be addressed.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
manual watering of parkway trees with a water truck;
converting irrigation to bubblers around the trees; requiring
pool covers; enforcement; confusion with layers of
regulations; automated irrigation systems; hand watering;
drip irrigation; the prevalence of turf irrigation; the state
mandated reduction; comparisons between pools and
landscaping; the amount of water to fill a pool; the tiered
system; the penalty phase; the San Juan Capistrano case;
public vs. private water utilities; the time frame for
implementation; clarification that gray water would be
included on the water conservation page on the City website
soon; typographical errors; other City facilities; artificial
turf; Urban Runoff Mandates and water conservation; the rain
barrel program; education; The Plunge; the number of new
pools constructed in the City annually; clarification that
the prohibition of filling new pools is already in the
ordinance with a proposed amendment to allow for repairs; the
necessity for a code amendment to allow new pools to be
filled; making changes as an urgency ordinance; scheduling;
the need for a 4/5 vote; gray water systems; County rules;
receiving a presentation from the County Health Department on
their requirements; concerns with bacteria; achieving set
goals; raising awareness; restrictions on putting in a new
lawn; new construction; the permit process for a new pool;
how often pools are refilled; refilling procedures for The
Plunge; bringing back the revised ordinance with support for
the pool covers but removing restrictions regarding filling
pools; increases in issues with people not putting enough June 22, 2015
22
water down their garbage disposals; suggestions to compost
food scraps rather than put food down the disposal; direction
to the City Manager to make changes to the proposed ordinance
and bring it back for City Council consideration; and
clarification that a motion was not required.
o0o
Item A-2
(1) Consideration of a Recommendation from the Parks,
Recreation and Community Services Commission Regarding
Allocating One or Two Resource People to Work with Existing
Community Groups to Create On-Site and/or Off-Site Garden
Sharing Opportunities in Culver City, Including Considering
the Formation of a Website to Support these Efforts; and (2)
Direction to the City Manager as Deemed Appropriate
Mayor O'Leary invited public input.
The following member of the audience addressed the City
Council:
Michelle Weiner felt that facilitating garden sharing was an
innovative idea and would benefit the City on many levels.
Council Member Sahli-Wells disclosed that before she served
on the City Council she was an organizing member of
Transition Culver City which was mentioned in the staff
report as a potential organization to work with.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
the potential role of the City; whether there is a dedicated
page for community gardens; the number of plots; turnover;
changes to the bylaws; providing information to the public;
advertising for the existing community gardens; sustainable
gardening; the Green Space Advisory Committee; the Open Space
Plan; increasing use of passive spaces; Stoneview; education
and working together as a community; the search for community
garden space in existing parts; the staff component;
maintenance; tax defaulted parcels; growing edibles in
parkways; providing resources to residents; those living in
apartments that do not have green space; and providing
information on garden sharing non-profits.
Kelly Kent Marin, Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Commissioner, discussed the Commission request for staff June 22, 2015
23
time; she expressed support for making information available
on the City website; notification of interested parties;
having a community conversation with neighboring municipality
leadership to share information about their community gardens
for advice on how to move forward; and she asked to be kept
informed about the fate of spaces as turf is removed due to
water restrictions.
Discussion ensued between Council Members and Ms. Kent Marin
regarding clarification about the time requested of staff;
the request for a creation of a specific website for Culver
City community gardeners; the community around the garden;
developing the community using social media; providing
resources with Culver City residents in mind; cooperation
with the Senior Center; replicating the work of non-profits;
tapping into existing resources; communication; and
volunteers willing to work on the issue.
Additional discussion ensued between staff and Council
Members regarding updating the City website; reaching out to
people on the waiting list; facilitating; providing the
tools; approaching private property owners; the Garden Club;
the LA Neighborhood Initiative; communication; directing
people to the website; community involvement; concern with
expending staff resources; current community groups
interested in the effort; whether there is a need for
monitoring and updating; connecting private property owners
with those interested in creating a community garden on
vacant land; properties in tax default; inventory of private,
vacant property; expanding community gardens by letting
people develop relationships with the property owner without
City involvement; sustainable gardens; neighborhood
gardening; portable garden plots; bringing people together to
grow things; Caltrans land; and agreement that the City
Manager would place information on community gardening on the
City's website.
o0o
Item A-4
Receive and File the Presentation of an Update to Culver
City ’s Pavement Management Program, PZ-546
Charles Herbertson, Public Works Director, provided a
presentation on the State Report.
June 22, 2015
24
Discussion ensued between Council Members and staff regarding
ongoing maintenance funding; prioritizing maintenance; and
maintaining what exists rather than building new projects.
Mate Gaspar, Engineering Services Manager, discussed the goal
of the pavement management program; road assets of the City;
overall conditions; the focus of the overlay program of
residential streets since 2006; spot repairs of concrete;
West Washington Boulevard; maintaining the existing PCI
levels; and turning attention to arterial streets in the next
several years.
Discussion ensued between staff and Council Members regarding
planned beautification; coordination of projects; slurry
sealing; an asphalt overlay; reflective cracking; pot holes;
vacating alleys; the need to form an assessment district to
improve alleys; solar roadways; staying in contact with
legislators regarding the State measure; decreased gas taxes;
and SB16.
o0o
Public Comment – Items Not on the Agenda
Mayor O'Leary invited public comment.
No cards were received and no speakers came forward.
Martin Cole, Assistant City Manager/City Clerk, announced
that the Culver City Senior Center had a new poetry class
taught by Janet Hoult on Wednesdays beginning July 1.
o0o
Items from the City Council
Mayor O'Leary asked that in an attempt to help those
impacted by the balcony collapse in Berkeley, Irish
students be allowed to use City Hall computers to
communicate with family back home.
Discussion ensued between Council Members regarding the
Irish Consul General and the Los Angeles representative.
o0o June 22, 2015
25
Adjournment
There being no further business, at 11:15 p.m., the City
Council adjourned its meeting in memory of Lee Wolkowitz,
the students who died in Berkeley California, and those
who died in the Charleston, South Carolina church shooting
to Monday, July 13, 2015 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
MICHEÁL O‘LEARY
MAYOR of Culver City, California