2013-07-02 City Council Minutes (Special and Regular)MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL AND REGULAR CITY COUNCIL
MEETING OF THE CITY OF VERNON HELD TUESDAY, JULY 2,
2013, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY HALL LOCATED
AT 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA
MEMBERS PRESENT: McCormick, Davis, Maisano, Ybarra, Martinez
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
The Special meeting of the City Council was called to order at
8:30 a.m. by Mayor McCormick.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that this was the time
allotted for public comment on any matter on the special meeting
portion of the agenda, that is, closed session only. Mayor
McCormick inquired whether anyone in the audience wished to
address the City Council. There was no response.
CLOSED SESSION
At 8:30 a.m. it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis that
the City Council go into closed session to discuss the items
listed under closed session. Motion carried, 5-0.
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1)
Bruce V. Malkenhorst, Sr. vs. City of Vernon
OCSC Case No. 30-2013-00650310-CU-BC-CJC
2. CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Mark Whitworth, Teresa
McAllister
Employee Organizations: Vernon Police Management
Association, Vernon Police Officers’ Benefit Association,
Vernon Firemen's Association, Vernon Fire Management
Association, Teamsters Local 911, and International
Brotherhood of Electric Workers Local 47.
At 9:02 a.m., it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis,
that the City Council exit closed session. Motion carried, 5-0.
City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez announced that there was no
reportable action.
At 9:03 a.m., it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to
recess the special meeting of the City Council.
The Regular meeting of the City Council was called to order at
9:03 a.m. by Mayor McCormick. The Police Department Honor Guard
led the flag salute.
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July 2, 2013
Page 2 of 14
CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that there are no changes
to the agenda. However, there are revisions to the resolution
associated with public hearing item no. 1, the Tax Equity and
Fiscal Responsibility Act (TEFRA) public hearing.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that this was the time
allotted for public comment. Mayor McCormick inquired whether
anyone in the audience wished to address the City Council.
Marisa Olguin, President of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce,
invited all to attend the Flag Retirement Ceremony to be held
later this afternoon.
Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp reported on his
attendance to the new Mayor of Los Angeles (“LA”) inauguration
ceremony. Van de Kamp suggested that the City Council consider
inviting the new LA Mayor Eric Garcetti and other local Mayors
to Vernon. Van de Kamp perceives that Garcetti is open to
visiting Vernon. This will place Vernon in a new role and
relationship with LA.
PRESENTATIONS
1. The Police Department will conduct a Swear-In ceremony for
the newly promoted Patrol Sergeant and Police Captain.
The Interim City Clerk is to administer the Oath of Office
for said promotions.
Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported on the vacant positions,
advising that there were four candidates for Patrol Sergeant and
three candidates for Police Captain. Based on testing results,
Nicholas Perez is promoted to Patrol Sergeant and Michael
Gillman is promoted to Police Captain.
Calleros provided a background for each of the new appointees
and administered the Oath of Office.
The Mayor called a recess at 9:15 a.m. The meeting resumed at
9:20 a.m.
2. The City Council shall receive and file a report
introducing Public Sector Personnel Consultants (PSPC) who
will be performing a citywide classification and
compensation study for the City of Vernon as a result of a
competitive proposal process (5 minutes).
Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported on the
request for proposals, the review and interview process that
ultimately selected Public Sector Personnel Consultants (“PSPC”)
to perform the citywide classification and compensation study.
McAllister reported on PSPC’s experience. She anticipates that
the study will be completed by October or November of this year.
PSCPC Project Manager Kate Tilzer looks forward to working with
Vernon and meeting the employees.
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July 2, 2013
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3. The City Council shall receive and file a report
introducing Alliant Insurance Services as the newly
selected Benefits Consultant for the City of Vernon as a
result of a competitive proposal process (5 minutes).
Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported on the
request for proposals, interview process and the selection of
Alliance Insurance Services (“Alliance”) as the Benefits
Consultant. Alliance is well qualified and has a reasonable
renegotiated bid.
Michael Menzia of Alliance reported on the company’s experience
working with public entities. They are excited to work with
Vernon.
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to receive and
file the reports introducing Public Sector Personnel Consultants
and Alliance Insurance Services. Motion carried, 5-0.
4. Presentation of new City website by IT Programmer/Analyst
Jared Miller (20 minutes).
City Administrator Mark Whitworth advised that he had instructed
the IT Department to construct a website that is user friendly
and available to all. He advised that the various departments
will be presenting on their own web pages at upcoming meetings.
IT Programmer/Analyst Jared Miller presented on the City website
which was designed to be more open and transparent. The site
was build in-house and is customizable and able to connect with
other City software. This allows for greater efficiency and
reduces costs. Each department manages and controls its own
content.
Miller presented an overview of the City’s homepage and City
Clerk Department’s pages, including the accessibility to public
meeting documents and agendas. Miller reported on future
projects including an electronic and emergency notification
system and online bill pay. Staff is continuously working on
ways to improve; he welcomed anyone that had a questions,
suggestion, or issue with the site, to please contact him.
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed expressed his desire to transition
to electronic files by updating the City’s retention schedule.
He will be working with the City Attorney’s Office on said
project.
President of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce Marisa Olguin
commended City staff on the improvements to the City website.
It provides open and transparent access to information and
resources. She is very pleased.
As he prepares for his six month report due in July, Independent
Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp advised that there has been a
great deal of progress. The new website illuminates the
progress that has been made.
Public Information Officer Fred MacFarlane commented that the
new website makes Vernon approachable for all throughout the
world. He recommended the use of video to further enhance the
website in order to convey messages.
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July 2, 2013
Page 4 of 14
Per Mayor McCormick’s request, Miller announced that the City’s
website is www.cityofvernon.org.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public Hearing: Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act
(TEFRA) public hearing on the proposed issuance of the
California Statewide Communities Development Authority of
its revenue bonds in one or more series in an amount not
to exceed $7,000,000.
Resolution No. 2013-65 - A Resolution of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Approving the Issuance of Revenue
Bonds by the California Statewide Communities Development
Authority in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed
$7,000,000, for the purpose of refinancing certain food
processing facilities owned or operated by 3450 Vernon
Avenue, LLC, or an affiliate thereof, and paying certain
costs of issuance, and other related matters. [Note:
There is no financial obligation to the City of Vernon as
a result of the Bond financing.]
Recommendation:
(1) Find that adoption of the proposed resolution for the
issuance of the Bonds required for the financing,
refinancing, acquisition, and capital projects
implementation, which are exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with
Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only
applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment. Subsequently construction activity could
be subject to CEQA; and
(2) Approve the resolution which would allow 3450 Vernon
Avenue, LLC or related affiliate entity, also known as
Golden West Trading Company, Inc. to issue and sell
Bonds with a maximum principal amount of $7,000,000.
At 9:40 a.m., under California Government Code section 6586.5,
the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act (“TEFRA”), Mayor
McCormick opened public hearing concerning the proposed bonds to
be issued by the California Statewide Community Development
Authority, specifically identified as Revenue Bonds, in an
amount not to exceed $7,000,000. He noted that TEFRA requires,
among other things, that the issue be approved by the elected
officials of the applicable governmental entity, after a public
hearing, following reasonable public notice. The public
hearing provides the public an opportunity to comment on the use
of the tax-exempt funds for the intended purpose.
Director of Finance William Fox reported on the proposed and
potential savings for the entity through lower interest rates.
Fox recited the two revisions to the resolution:
“WHEREAS, the proposed loan financing will be tax exempt income
to investors and the effective interest rate will therefore be
demonstrably lower for the borrower than if the loan were
obtained without the tax exempt status;
WHEREAS, undertaking the project in a timely fashion will
cause employment benefits, both due to the temporary
construction and installation jobs, and to the permanent
expansion of the facility.”
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July 2, 2013
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Fox explained that the proceeds will be used to update the
building and equipment. The City’s role is an approving
authority; there are no financial ramifications to the City.
The City is obligated to review all transactions within its
jurisdiction. Fox recommends approval as doing so will keep and
create jobs and promote a healthier community.
Mayor McCormick recalled that a similar request was approved for
Clougherty Packing in the past. He inquired whether there was
anyone in the audience that wished to comment on the
recommendation. No one responded.
At 9:46 a.m., Mayor McCormick closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Davis and seconded by Ybarra to approve
Resolution No. 2013-65 incorporating the two revisions. Motion
carried, 5-0.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Martinez to approve the
matters listed on the Consent Calendar as recommended. Motion
carried, 5-0.
Claims Against the City (to be received and filed)
1. Claim for Damages received on June 24, 2013 from MetLife
auto and Home as subrogee of Carlos Hernandez in the
amount of $3,181.16.
Minutes Approval
2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held June 18,
2013, to be received and filed.
Warrant Registers
3. Ratification of City Warrant Register No.1381 to record
the following voided checks:
a. Check No. 341214 in the amount of $49.20; and
b. Check No. 341200 in the amount of $160.00; and
c. Check No. 341256 in the amount of $10.00.
4. Approval of City Warrant Register No. 1382, totaling
$995,353.01, which covers the period of June 11, through
June 24, 2013, and consists of the following:
a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $773,338.82;
and
b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$80,425.34; and
c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$141,588.85.
5. Approval of Light & Power Warrant Register No. 347,
totaling $4,369,182.98, which covers the period of June
11, through June 24, 2013, and consists of the following:
a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $4,164,399.10;
and
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July 2, 2013
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b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$126,917.61; and
c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$77,866.27.
6. Approval of Gas Warrant Register No. 135, totaling
$50,400.22, which covers the period of June 11, through
June 24, 2013, and consists of the following:
a. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$50,101.37; and
b. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$298.85.
City Administration Department
7. Resolution No. 2013-66 - A Resolution of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Amending Resolution No. 2013-57
regarding the Compensation, Costs and Benefits of its
Employees (“citywide Personnel and Salary Resolution”) by
Amending Subsection 2(a) of Section 15 of the citywide
Personnel and Salary Resolution (Amendment No. 1).
Recommendation:
(1) Find that adoption of the proposed resolution is
exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the
general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that
may have an effect on the environment; and
(2) Approve and adopt Amendment No. 1 to Resolution No.
2013-57 to amend Section 15: City Council Department,
Subsection 2a – Coverage After Retirement, to state:
“City Council members are entitled to the same retiree
medical benefits offered to all full-time regular
employees as identified under any citywide resolution
for retiree medical benefits in effect at the time
Council members retire.”
City Clerk Department
8. Resolution No. 2013-67 - A Resolution of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Appointing the City’s Voting
Delegate and Alternate for the Annual Business Meeting
(General Assembly), of the League of California Cities
2013 Annual Conference.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that approval of the Resolution is exempt under
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in
accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule
that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an
effect on the environment; and
(2) Approve the Resolution appointing the Mayor Michael
McCormick as the Delegate and Mayor Pro Tem William
Davis as the Alternate for the Annual Business Meeting
(“General Assembly”) of the League of California
Cities 2013 Annual Conference; and
(3) Authorize staff to complete and submit the 2013 Annual
Conference Voting Delegate/Alternate Form to the
League of California Cities Office.
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July 2, 2013
Page 7 of 14
Community Services and Water Department
9. Request for approval to advertise ‘Citywide Cold Planing
and Striping Phase I,’ Project Contract No. CS-0363.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that the approval of the proposed Citywide Cold
Planing and Stripping Phase I Project is exempt under
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in
accordance with Section 15301, Existing Facilities,
part (c), existing highways and streets; and
(2) Approve the Notice Inviting Bids and Bid
Specifications for ‘Citywide Cold Planing and Striping
Phase I Project,’ Contract No. CS-0363.
Fire Department
10. Activity Report for the period of June 1, through June 15,
2013, to be received and filed.
Light and Power Department
11. Resolution No. 2013-68 - A Resolution of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Approving and Authorizing the
execution of the First Amendment to the Amended and
Restated Red Rock Access Easement and License Agreement by
and between the City of Vernon and North Sky River Energy,
LLC.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that approval is exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with
Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only
applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment; and
(2) Adopt a Resolution approving the First Amendment to
the Amended and Restated Red Rock Access Easement and
License Agreement dated March 6, 2012, pursuant to
Resolution No. 2012.38, and in the form attachment to the
Resolution. This pertains to non-exclusive easements for
access over and across certain real property located in
Kern County, California, and the proposed amendment will
incorporate customary lender protections.
Police Department
12. Activity Log and Statistical Summary of Arrest and
Activities for the period of June 1, through June 15,
2013, to be received and filed.
NEW BUSINESS
Finance Department
1. Resolution No. 2013-69 - A Resolution of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Adopting an Appropriation Limit for
the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2014, pursuant to
Government Code Section 7910.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that adoption of the Fiscal Year 2013-2014
Appropriation Limit proposed is exempt under the
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July 2, 2013
Page 8 of 14
California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in
accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule
that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an
effect on the environment; and
(2) Establish the City’s Appropriation Limit for the
Fiscal Year 2013-2014 in the amount of $962,096,932.
Director of Finance William Fox advised that the appropriation
limit is required under the California Constitution. Fox
provided background information advising that the limit is a way
of limiting government spending.
He reported on the method of calculations. Vernon’s limit is
$55 million. For its government type of operation, Vernon is
allowed to spend $962 million. Vernon has complied with the
requirement and is within the allowed limit.
It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by Maisano to approve
Resolution No. 2013-69. Motion carried, 5-0.
Fire Department
2. Approval of the First Amendment to Contract Number C-
119976 between the City of Los Angeles and the City of
Vernon for the 2010 UASI Grant.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that approval of the proposed agreement is exempt
under the California Environmental Quality Act
(“CEQA”) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the
general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that
may have an effect on the environment; and
(2) Approve the First Amendment to Contract No. C-119976
between the City Los Angeles and the City of Vernon in
connection with the 2010 Urban Area Security
Initiative Grant to return unused funds.
Fire Chief Michael Wilson reported that approximately $16,000
will be returned from the 2010 Urban Area Security Initiative
(“UASI”) Grant. Wilson explained that due to AB46, there was a
delay in the final agreement for said grant. The period for the
expenditure of funds was consequently shortened. Wilson noted
that all the expenditures during the period were 100% reimbursed
for 2010 through the grant, the funds being returned represent
unused funds.
It was moved by Martinez and seconded by Davis to approve the
first amendment to Contract Number C-119976 with the City of Los
Angeles. Motion carried, 5-0.
Light & Power Department
3. Request for Approval of City of Vernon Amendment No. 2 to
Contract No. GD-0013 with AM Ortega for Natural Gas
Transmission Pipeline Modifications and Construction of
Launcher and Receiver for In-line Testing Instruments
Recommendation:
(1) Find that the approval is categorically exempt from
the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”)
pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301 because the
proposal will not require any new construction, and
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July 2, 2013
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the only physical change to the environment is
excavating existing pipelines; and
(2) Approve an amendment to the existing contract GD-0013
with A.M. Ortega Construction, Inc., identified as
Amendment No. 2, to provide additional funds in the
amount of $246,000, for the work performed beyond the
approved contract budget, required to successfully
complete the in-line testing instruments project on
schedule in order to meet federal safety standards and
to protect the public health and safety.
Light and Power Director Carlos Fandino reported on the
assessment of the natural gas pipeline system required every
seven years. The City Council was made aware of the several
issues encountered which delayed the project. Completion of the
work was critical. The original scope of work and costs were
exceeded. Fandino noted that the $75,000 approved through
Amendment No. 1 was also exceeded. Due to the risk in public
safety, staff allowed the work to continue. Additional costs
could not be known until the work was completed. The project is
now complete and the preliminary reports show the pipeline to be
safe. Fandino sought approval of Amendment No. 2 providing
additional funds in the amount of $246,000.
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to approve
Amendment No. 2 to Contract GD-0013 with AM Ortega. Motion
carried, 5-0.
4. Request for Approval of Amendment No. 2 for the Interstate
Gas Services, Inc. Service Agreement.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that the approval is exempt under the California
Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with
Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only
applies to projects that may have an effect on the
environment; and
(2) Approve Amendment No. 2 for the Interstate Gas
Services, Inc. (“IGS”) Service Agreement for payment
of additional funds in the amount of $33,000 for
consultative service work completed during the safety
assessment of the City gas transmission line mandated
by the Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration (“PHMSA”). Pursuant to Resolution No.
10,041 and 2010-134, the City agreed to compensate IGS
an amount not to exceed $140,000 for services rendered
within a given fiscal year. As a result of the PHMSA
project, IGS was enlisted for additional work, above
and beyond that indicated within the original
established service agreement; and
(3) Authorize Light & Power to renew the current IGS
contract for fiscal year 2013-2014, for strategic
consultation on matters relating to the City of
Vernon’s Natural Gas Operations Management on an as-
needed basis with the understanding that the contract
will be subject to the City’s request for proposal
process for fiscal year 2014-2015. Based upon a
determination that the best interests of the City are
served by continuation of the contract for fiscal year
2013-2014, without a competitive selection process,
Light & Power concludes that competitive bidding is
not required for the professional services contract
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July 2, 2013
Page 10 of 14
with IGS, pursuant to Section 2.17(A)(10) of the
Vernon Municipal Code. It is requested that the City
Council grant an exemption from the competitive
selection process, pursuant to Section 2.17.12(B)(2)
of the Vernon Municipal Code (best interests).
Light and Power Director Carlos Fandino advised that Dan
Bergmann of Interstate Gas Services, Inc. (“IGS”) assisted with
various gas projects. Specifically, due to the issues with the
natural gas system assessment, Bergmann was needed on-site to
ensure the completion of the project and compliance with
Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration requirements.
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to approve
Amendment No. 2 with Interstate Gas Services, Inc. Motion
carried, 5-0.
OLD BUSINESS
City Administration Department
1. Housing Commission Request to Reconsider Recommendation to
Divest City-Owned Housing Units in Huntington Park.
Recommendation:
(1) Find that approval of the recommendation is exempt
from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”)
in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general
rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have
an effect on the environment; and
(2) The Vernon Housing Commission recommends the City
Council again reconsider the divestment of the vacant
City-owned housing units in Huntington Park in light
of improved market conditions, the City’s current
fiscal situation, and the lack of interested renters
at the previously established market rents. Any
decision or direction by the City Council will be
reported to the Housing Commission at its September
11, 2013 meeting.
City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported that the Vernon
Housing Commission requested that the City Council reconsider
the divestment of the units in Huntington Park. There are five
units in Huntington Park, two of which are currently occupied.
Whitworth presented on the appraisal information.
During the third property management firm Solari Enterprises’
presentation at the Commission meeting, the sale of the units or
a reduction in the rental rate was discussed.
Mayor Pro Tem and Commission Member Davis opined that the rent
was initially set too high. The rate has been reduced. He
recommended that the divestment of the property be revisited in
a few years. In the interim, the units can be leased at the
reduced rate.
Mayor McCormick agreed that the rent rate was set too high. He
is opposed to the sale of the properties. Councilmember Maisano
also concurred that the original rent was set too high for the
area.
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July 2, 2013
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Although he agrees that the original rent was set to high,
Councilmember Ybarra stated that the Huntington Park units
should be sold, and that the focus should be in Vernon.
Mayor McCormick recommended that the Council wait to see whether
the units can be leased at the lower rate.
It was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano to not divest the
vacant units in Huntington Park. Motion carried, 4-1, with
Ybarra in opposition.
ORDINANCES
1. Ordinance No. 1212 - An Ordinance of the City Council of
the City Vernon, California, adding Section 2.1.1, to
Article I of Chapter 2 of the Code of the City of Vernon,
relating to the Rules of Order for the Conduct of Council
Proceedings. (second reading)
Recommendation:
(1) Find that approval of the Ordinance adopting
Rosenberg’s Rules of Order is exempt under the
California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in
accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule
that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an
effect on the environment; and
(2) Adopt an Ordinance that will select Rosenberg’s Rules
of Order as the rules of order for the conduct of
Council proceedings as well as the proceedings of all
City Boards and Commissions.
It was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano to adopt Ordinance
No. 1212. A role call vote was taken:
- Councilmember Martinez, yes
- Councilmember Ybarra, yes
- Councilmember Maisano, yes
- Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, yes
- Mayor McCormick, yes
Motion carried, 5-0.
ORAL REPORTS
Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported on truck battery thefts in
unsecured parking areas of two local businesses. The thefts
occurred on June 19, 2013; a total of seven truck batteries were
taken. Detectives will be reviewing video footage for leads.
On June 25, 2013, approximately 100 gallons of diesel fuel was
reported stolen in the 4300 block of Bandini Boulevard.
Detectives will be following up on leads.
On June 29, 2013, a burglary was reported in the 2500 block of
Santa Fe Avenue, wherein suspects broke-into the building. The
incident was captured on surveillance video. Calleros advised
that the suspect may be connected to a previous burglary where
an arrest was made. Said suspect was released on a bond but is
scheduled to appear in court early next week.
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July 2, 2013
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Calleros reported on the Department’s participation at the
Farmer John Health Fair on June 28, 2013. He reported on
vandalism at a vacant lot on Santa Fe Avenue.
Fire Chief Michael Wilson announced the completion of the fire
engineers practical exam, Anthony Fish was the top candidate and
will be promoted. Four engineer positions were left vacant as a
results of the PARS early retirement program. Said positions
were filled, a presentation is scheduled for August.
Wilson noted that the Fire Department also participated at the
Farmer John Health Fair on June 28, 2013. He announced the flag
retirement ceremony later this day at Fire Station No. 1.
The Department will be training on the use of the thermal image
camera purchased through the UASI grant. Wilson thanked
Captains Michael Langer and Todd Painton for conducting training
for other agencies. Through their connections and the use of
grants, equipment such as the jaws-of-life has been donated to
the City. He also thanked KIA motors for providing 9 new
vehicles for training purposes.
Wilson reported on commercial fires that occurred on June 18 and
June 27, 2013. On June 28, 2013, units responded to a traffic
collision in which an individual was trapped.
Director of Community Services and Water Department Kevin Wilson
reported that the County is conducting work on Bandini Boulevard
to synchronize the signals and improve traffic flow.
Concrete sidewalks repair is being conducted throughout the
City, the work is ongoing.
Wilson explaining that the City will be contracting for cold
plaining to address city streets repair. This is a different
method than previously used, and is an effort to save on costs.
Last year the City contracted for slurry-seal services, but the
cost proved to be excessive. Wilson explained that his
intention is to pool resources with the City of Los Angeles’
slurry seal contract and save funds.
Wilson reported that there has been an increase in construction
in Vernon.
Director of Light & Power Carlos Fandino reported on power
outages on June 18 and June 23, 2013, caused by Mylar balloons.
A truck collision incident with a power pole caused a 43 minute
power outage on June 26, 2013.
On June 28, 2013 a power outage occurred when a contractor
excavating to repair a customer’s fire service line struck an
energized underground conduit. On June 1, 2013 there was
another traffic collision incident involving a power pole;
however, there was no power outage as a result.
In response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis’ inquiry on the construction
on Fruitland Avenue from Santa Fe Avenue to Pacific Boulevard,
Director of Community Services Kevin Wilson advised that
Southern California Gas Company was replacing a gas main. The
line was leaking and an emergency encroachment permit was
issued.
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July 2, 2013
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Director of Finance William Fox reported on the interview
process for the financial advisor with a potential selection by
next week. He reported that the close of the request for
proposals (“RFP”) for an external auditing firm is extended
until July 3, 2013, as specific work was not included in the
original RFP, and there has been a lack of response; greater
outreach was conducted.
Chief Deputy Director David LeDuff, sitting in for the Director
of Health and Environmental Control, reported that on April 24,
2013, the Department of Toxic Substances Control (“DTSC”)
ordered Exide Technologies (“Exide”) to suspend operations.
However, Exide contested the state’s order and an administrative
judge ruled on June 17, 2013, to allow Exide to continue
operations.
LeDuff reported that a large portion of hazardous material that
was being stored at Four Star Chemical has been removed. A
noticeable improvement in housekeeping has been observed. The
assessment of contaminated soils is scheduled to begin this day.
He anticipates a report later this month. The Health Department
will continue to monitor the site very closely and keep the City
Council informed.
In response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, LeDuff advised that Exide is
back in full operation. In response to Councilmember Ybarra,
LeDuff advised that Exide will continue to work with the Air
Quality Management Department to resolve the issues.
Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported that there
have been several labor unit meetings. She thanked the
employees for completing the position analysis questionnaire.
The employee benefits consultants, Alliant Insurance Services,
have been gathering data and census. There will be a benefits
committee developed within the upcoming weeks as a means to
provide the consultant with additional background information.
McAllister thanked Petrelli Electric for sponsoring the safety
employees’ retirement luncheon. This is the second event they
have sponsored.
Assistant to the City Administrator Alex Kung announced that the
Oversight Board of the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment
Agency meeting on July 4, 2013, is cancelled and rescheduled to
July 11, 2013. The Oversight Board will be considering the
approval of the long-range property management plan.
The Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency will be
considering the ratification of the sale of the disposition of
4900 Pacific Boulevard at the conclusion of the City Council
meeting.
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed clarified that the closed session
matters were not concluded, the record will show that the
Special City Council meeting was recessed until after the
conclusion of the Successor Agency meeting.
City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported that the JLAC one-
year response was due on June 28, 2013. Staff requested
additional time and the response will be sent by July 3, 2013.
Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
July 2, 2013
Page 14 of 14
Whitworth reported on meetings with Mercury Public Affairs and
Chris Lahaen on strategic planning. Key staff will be meeting
for the third time with large utility users at Farmer John.
Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp’s report is due by
the end of July.
Whitworth announced the Special City Council meeting on July 3,
2013, at 8:00 a.m. The regular City Council meeting on July 16,
2013 is cancelled. The next meeting thereafter is August 6,
2013.
McCormick invited all to the flag retirement ceremony later this
day at Fire Station No. 1.
At 10:36 a.m., it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to
adjourn the Regular City Council meeting. Motion carried, 5-0.
At 10:43 a.m., the Special City Council meeting resumed.
CLOSED SESSION
At 10:43 a.m. it was moved by McCormick and seconded by Martinez
that the City Council go into closed session to finish
discussing the last item listed under closed session. Motion
carried, 5-0.
2. CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS
Government Code Section 54957.6
Agency Designated Representatives: Mark Whitworth, Teresa
McAllister
Employee Organizations: Vernon Police Management
Association, Vernon Police Officers’ Benefit Association,
Vernon Firemen's Association, Vernon Fire Management
Association, Teamsters Local 911, and International
Brotherhood of Electric Workers Local 47.
At 10:59 a.m. it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Martinez,
that the City Council exit closed session. Motion carried, 5-0.
City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez announced that there was no
reportable action.
At 11:00 a.m., it was moved by Martinez and seconded by Ybarra,
to adjourn the Special City Council meeting. Motion carried,
5-0.
________________________
W. Michael McCormick
Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________
Dana Reed
Interim City Clerk