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2013-10-01 City Council Minutes (Special, Regular)MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL AND REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE CITY OF VERNON HELD TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1, 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 the Special meeting portion of the Agenda, the Closed Session only. Mayor McCormick inquired whether anyone in the audience wished to address the City Council. No one responded. CLOSED SESSION At 8:31 a.m. it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to go into closed session to discuss the item listed under closed session. Motion carried, 5-0. 1. CITY COUNCIL CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS Government Code Section 54957.6 Agency Designated Representatives: Mark Whitworth, Jamaar Boyd-Weatherby Employee Organization: Teamsters Local 911 At 8:50 a.m. it was moved by Davis and seconded by Martinez, that the City Council exit closed session. Motion carried, 5-0. Mayor McCormick called for a recess of the meeting until the commencement of the Regular City Council meeting at 9:00 a.m. The Regular meeting of the City Council was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Mayor McCormick. City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez led the flag salute. Rodriguez announced that there was no reportable action for the closed session item. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that there are no changes to the agenda. 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. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 2 of 14 New Field Representative for the Office Senator Ricardo Lara Jesus Diaz formally introduced himself to the City Council. He looks forward to working with the City. PRESENTATIONS 1. Presentation by Muscular Dystrophy Association (“MDA”) Director of Business Development Erin Kelly to the Fire Department in appreciation of their participation in the Fill the Boot campaign. Erin Kelly of MDA reported on the City’s involvement with the Fill the Boot campaign. She thanked the City and Fire Department for their efforts in raising $29,000, and presented the Fire Department with an appreciation plaque. Fire Engineer Paul Johnson thanked the City for their support of the program. He advised that during off-duty, fire personnel works with kids affected by muscular dystrophy, and they also participate in the MDA telethon. 2. Presentations from the Finance Department and Human Resources Department on their respective pages of the new City website. Finance Director William Fox presented on the Department’s webpages. He advised that changes were made to increase transparency. To explain, budget and financial audit reports, retroactively for five years, are now available on the website. The City’s purchasing ordinance and manual, and business license information are also available. Fox reported on future online business license processing and payment. Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported on the Department’s webpages. She noted that there will soon be a shift to paperless processing of job applications. Additionally, a video on why Vernon is a great place to work for is forthcoming using employee’s personal testimony. Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp inquired whether the City evaluates or tracks the website utilization. City Administrator Mark Whitworth recalled reports from the IT Department providing information on the website views. He advised that he’s received positive comments and inquiries from other jurisdictions on the new City website. CONSENT CALENDAR It was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano to approve the matters listed on the Consent Calendar as presented. Motion carried, 5-0. Claims Against the City (to be received and filed) 1. Claim for Damages received on September 18, 2013 for claimant Erin Edwards for an amount in excess of $300. / / / / / / Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 3 of 14 Minutes Approval 2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held August 20, 2013, to be received and filed. Warrant Registers 3. Ratification of the following warrant registers to record the following voided checks: a. City Warrant Register No. 1380 to record voided Check No. 341128 in the amount of $17.84; and b. City Warrant Register No. 1375 to record voided Check No. 340254 in the amount of $462.50. 4. Approval of City Warrant Register No. 1386, totaling $1,052,013.60, which covers the period of September 10, through September 23, 2013, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $574,003.26; and a. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $301,378.46; and b. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling $176,631.88. 5. Approval of Light & Power Warrant Register No. 351, totaling $5,481,082.28, which covers the period of September 10, through September 23, 2013, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $5,279,258.00; and b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $154,886.72; and c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling $46,937.56. 6. Approval of Gas Warrant Register No. 139, totaling $268,949.29, which covers the period of September 10, through September 23, 2013, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $2,475.00; and b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $265,522.08; and c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling $952.21. City Administration Department 7. Resolution No. 2013-81 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon approving the application for grant funds for the Urban Greening Planning Grant Program under the Safe Drinking Water, Water Quality and Supply, Flood Control, River and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2006 (Proposition 84). Recommendation: (1) Find that the approval and submittal of a 2013 urban greening sustainable communities planning grant application is not a “project” within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 4 of 14 because the submission of an application to the state to request funding is an administrative activity that will not result in direct or indirect physical change in the environment, and even if it were a “project”, it would be exempt under Section 15061(B)(3) the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment because it remains speculative what the urban greening plan may and may not contain and therefore cannot have an effect on the environment; and (2) Approve a resolution to authorize staff to submit a 2013 Urban Greening Sustainable Communities planning grant application to the State of California Strategic Growth Council. Community Services and Water Department 8. Building Department Report for the month of August 2013, to be received and filed. Fire Department 9. Activity Report for the period of August 15, through August 31, 2013, to be received and filed. 10. Activity Report for the period of September 1, through September 15, 2013, to be received and filed. Police Department 11. Activity Log and Statistical Summary of Arrest and Activities for the period of September 1, through September 15, 2013, to be received and filed. NEW BUSINESS City Administration Department 1. Resolution No. 2013-82 A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon updating City Council Members Appointments to Various Agencies and/or Committees. 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) Update membership of the various boards on which Council members serve and appoint delegates and alternates to the following boards and memorialize said appointments, by adopting the resolution: Mayor McCormick recommended the following delegates and alternates for the various boards: a. I-710 EIR/EIS Project Committee. Appoint Davis as the delegate and McCormick as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9936, which appointed William Davis as the delegate and Michael McCormick as the alternate. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 5 of 14 b. Central Basin Water Association. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Davis as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9925, which appointed Hilario Gonzales as the delegate and Michael McCormick and Richard Maisano as the alternates. The Director of Community Services & Water, or his designee, is also an alternate. c. Gateway Cities Council of Governments. Appoint Davis as the delegate and Ybarra as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9929, which appointed William Davis as the delegate and Hilario Gonzales as the alternate. d. Independent Cities Finance Authority. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Maisano as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9935, which appointed Michael McCormick as the delegate and Richard Maisano as the alternate. e. Orangeline Development Authority. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Davis as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9937, which appointed Michael McCormick as the delegate and Richard Maisano as the alternate. f. Southeast Cities Schools Coalition. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Ybarra as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9932, which appointed Michael McCormick as the delegate and William Davis as the alternate. g. Southeast Community Development Corporation. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Davis as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9934, which appointed Hilario Gonzales as the delegate and McCormick as the alternate. h. Southeast Water Coalition. Appoint McCormick as the delegate and Davis as the alternate to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 9933, which appointed Hilario Gonzales as the delegate and Michael McCormick and Richard Maisano as the alternates. i. Vernon Solid Waste Hearing Panel. Appoint Ybarra, Maisano, and Martinez to update previous appointments made pursuant to Resolution No. 10,014, adopted in July 2009, in which all five then current members of the City Council were appointed. Only three Council members need to be appointed. It was moved by Davis and seconded by Ybarra to approve Resolution No. 2013-82 approving the various recommendations made by Mayor McCormick. Motion carried, 5-0. Community Services and Water Department 2. Quitclaim of Electrical Easement and Electrical Easement 3222 Washington Boulevard (Camfield Washington 1, LLC). Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 6 of 14 Recommendation: (1) Find that the attached Quitclaim Deed and Electrical Easement are categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b) (3), the general rule the CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Approve the partial Quitclaim Deed of an existing Electrical Easement; and (3) Accept the new Electrical Easement; and (4) Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute said documents. Director of Community Services and Water Kevin Wilson explained that the property is a vacant lot. Electric underground conduits within the lot interfere with redevelopment plans. Parties request that the city quitclaim an existing electrical easement and issue a new electrical easement at a new location. It was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano to approve the partial Quitclaim Deed of an existing Electrical Easement and accept a new Electrical Easement. Motion carried, 5-0. 3. Resolution No. 2013-83 A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon repealing Resolution No. 2013-50 and approving a lot line adjustment for the properties located at 3250 and 3270 Washington Boulevard. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed Lot Line Adjustment is categorically exempt based on a Class 5 Categorical Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with Section 15305 which consists of minor alterations in land use limitations in areas with an average slope of less than 20%, which do not result in any changes in land use or density including minor lot line adjustments, side yard, and set back variances not resulting in the creation of any new parcels; and (2) Adopt a resolution repealing Resolution No. 2013-50 and approving a Lot Line Adjustment for the properties located at 3250 and 3270 Washington Boulevard. Director of Community Services and Water Kevin Wilson explained that two properties share a legal description, and have requested a grammatical change to the description previously approved for a lot line adjustment through Resolution No. 2013- 50. Wilson clarified that lot line adjustment remains the same. In order to appease the parties, the recommendation to repeal Resolution No. 2013-50, and approve a new resolution with the revised description is requested. It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by Maisano to approve Resolution No. 2013-83. Motion carried, 5-0. Finance Department 4. Resolution No. 2013-84 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon approving and adopting an updated Expense Reimbursement Policy for certain expenses of City Council Members and City Employees and repealing Resolution No. 2011-187. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 7 of 14 Recommendation: (1) Find the adoption of the proposed resolution for the updating of the Travel and Expense Reimbursement Policy 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 the resolution approving an updated Expense Reimbursement Policy which is consistent with the City’s Good Governance Reforms and provides additional clarification related to reimbursement for use of a personal vehicle in lieu of air fare, reimbursement of meal costs while attending conferences, and making meals & incidental reimbursement in conformity with IRS standards rates. In addition, the policy provides for internet utilization in order to carry out City related business. Finance Director William Fox advised that the proposed updates the Expense Reimbursement policy from the previously approved policy under Resolution No. 2011-187. The proposed not only clarifies reimbursement practices but it also incorporated recommendations made by Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp and recommendations made as a result of the state audit. Fox explained how the proposed will keep expenses down by using best practices and its consistency with IRS standards. It further clarified repayment on expense allowances provided in advance. Internet access reimbursement is a new expense category. Fox explained the process and advised that internet access is necessary for effective communication. In response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, Fox advised that the proposed does not cover penalties for misuse of public funds. State and federal laws address the misuse of public funds. The proposed are guidelines to ensure the City and its Committees and Commissions stay within the law. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to approve Resolution No. 2013-84. Motion carried, 5-0. Health and Environmental Control Department 5. Resolution No. 2013-85 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Vernon requesting the South Coast Air Quality Management District issue a Health Advisory to the Southeast Los Angeles County Air Quality Management District Regions and any other areas that may be affected by harmful air emissions from Exide Technologies to educate and inform residents, workers and businesses in Vernon and surrounding communities on immediate steps they should take to protect themselves and their families given the AQMD findings on exposure to lead and arsenic air emissions. 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 Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 8 of 14 applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Approve the resolution requesting the South Coast Air Quality Management District (“SCAQMD”) issue an Exide Technologies health advisory to the Southeast Los Angeles County and any other areas that may be affected by harmful air emissions from Exide Technologies to educate and inform residents, workers and businesses in Vernon and surrounding communities on immediate steps they should take to protect themselves and their families given the SCAQMD findings on exposure to lead and arsenic air emissions. Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg advised that ongoing air quality issues have elevated the fears and concerns held by Vernon residents, businesses and local communities. These fears and concerns need to be adequately addressed with a greater sense of urgency by the SCAQMD and an immediate health advisory with information on the arsenic and lead exposure is warranted. The Vernon Health and Environmental Control Department continues to validate its commitment to strong environmental controls and protection of its public health issues. The Council expressed great concern over potential health risks to the public as a result of contaminant exposure during the City Council meeting held September 17, 2013. Although SCAQMD has advised that they will be issuing a notice of violation to Exide Technologies (“Exide”), the City believes that more steps can be taken to protect the livelihood of those in and surrounding Vernon. Grossberg explained that the City of Vernon lacks statutory authority to act independently on this matter. Consequently, Grossberg requests that Council approve the request to SCAQMD to issue the health advisory. By issuing the advisory, those potentially affected can be informed of the risks and the precaution they can take to protect themselves. City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported that during the previous Council meeting an update on the Exide issue was presented. After public comment and Council dialog, staff was directed to evaluate other methods of addressing the Exide concern. He too recommends approval of the proposed formal request to SCAQMD to issue a health advisory through the resolution. Whitworth reported on the receipt of letters of concerns. It is becoming increasingly important for entities in the southeast Los Angeles region to adopt resolutions requesting a health advisory from SCAQMD. Through this, we anticipate that SCAQMD will pay heed to the City’s request and make sure that everyone is properly informed. In the past SCAQMD has declined the City’s letter request that a health advisory be issued. Approval of the resolution will increase the efforts. Councilmember Ybarra agrees that the proposed recommendation is the next appropriate step, but he is still concerned that a day with high emission levels occurred. He inquired whether the cause had been determined. In response, Grossberg advised that Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 9 of 14 he would make the question to SCAQMD and Exide as the reports do not provide this type of information. Councilmember Ybarra explained that although emissions have been reduced, the fact that there was a day with high emission levels is of great concern. This occurrence needs to be addressed as it could be a malfunction. In response to Councilmember Maisano’s concerns about why SCAQMD is reluctant to issue the health advisory, Grossberg explained that the toxins must reach a certain threshold before a health advisory is required by law. Said levels have not been reached. There are different levels of exceedance which must be met. Grossberg advised that the toxin levels are constantly being monitored. SCAQMD reports when there is an exceedance, but Grossberg cautioned that the reports may be available approximately 1-2 weeks after the event. Mayor Pro-Tem Davis stated that the City of Vernon is doing its part to address the issue, and opined that SCAQMD can do more to help the residents and community fully understand the issue, the long-term effects, and what they can do to protect themselves. Mayor McCormick stated the City of Vernon is committed to help SCAQMD and the Department of Toxic Substances Control protect the public’s safety. With the passing of the proposed resolution, the Council directs the City Administrator to transmit a copy of the said resolution requesting a health advisory from SCAQMD to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and Los Angeles, Bell, Maywood, Commerce, and Huntington Park City Councils requesting that they approve a similar resolution. Additionally, a similar request should be sent to state representatives for the Los Angeles Southeast area. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis to approve Resolution No. 2013-85 with directions to staff to transmit the resolution to local agencies requesting similar adoptions of resolutions that request the issuance of a health advisory by the South Coast Air Quality Management District for lead and arsenic air emissions. Motion carried, 5-0. Light and Power Department 6. Approve the Issuance of Three (3) Invitations to Bid to Qualified Manufacturers and Distributors for (1) Overhead Electric Transformers, (2) Pad-Mounted Electric Transformers, and (3) Underground SF6 Electric Switches. Recommendation: (1) Find that approval of the proposed issuance of an Invitation to Bid 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, whereas the equipment referenced herewith merely replaces older equipment and improves electrical system efficiency and reliability in Vernon; and (2) Approve the issuance of Notice Inviting Bids to qualified manufacturers and distributors for the procurement of necessary “overhead electric Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 10 of 14 transformers” in order to replenish stock to established par level; and (3) Approve the issuance of Notice Inviting Bids to qualified manufacturers and distributors for the procurement of necessary “pad-mounted electric transformers” in order to replenish stock to established par level; and (4) Approve the issuance of Notice Inviting Bids to qualified manufacturers and distributors for the procurement of necessary “underground SF6 electric switches” in order to replenish stock to established par level. Director of Light and Power Carlos Fandino advised that the City owns the inventory and that replenishment is necessary. The expense has been budgeted and the bid quotes will be valid for three years. Staff will be working with vendors on the cost. It was moved by Davis and seconded by Martinez to approve the issuance of three (3) Invitations to Bid to qualified manufacturers and distributors for (1) overhead electric transformers, (2) pad-mounted electric transformers, and (3) underground SF6 electric switches. ORDINANCES 1. Ordinance No. 1213 - An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Vernon, California, adding Chapter 15 to the Vernon Municipal Code to establish Franchise Fees, PEG Fees, and Customer Service Penalties for State Franchise Holders providing video service within the City of Vernon. (second reading) Recommendation: (1) Find that approval of the ordinance 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 because the mere collection of fees and penalties will have no significant effect on whether AT&T or any other company provides video service in Vernon; and (2) Adopt Ordinance No. 1213 to establish franchise fees, PEG fees, and customer service penalties for state franchise holders providing video (cable TV) service within the City of Vernon. Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that this is the second reading. Director of Light and Power Carlos Fandino had nothing further to add. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis. A roll call vote was taken: - Councilmember Martinez, yes - Councilmember Ybarra, yes - Councilmember Maisano, yes - Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, yes - Mayor McCormick, yes Ordinance No. 1213 was adopted. Motion carried, 5-0. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 11 of 14 2. Ordinance No. 1214 - An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Vernon, California, amending Sections 5.22(c)(7) and 5.22(c)(8) of Article II of Chapter 5 of the Code of the City of Vernon to reduce the rate of the Business License Tax for Catering Vehicle Businesses. (second reading) Recommendation: (1) Find that modifying the annual Business License Tax for hot or cold catering vehicles is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3). The general is that CEQA only applies to activities that may have an effect on the environment. Modifying the annual business license tax rates would not be subject to CEQA. (2) Adopt Ordinance No. 1214 authorizing modifications to the annual Business License Tax rate for hot and cold mobile catering vehicles to mirror the County of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County rate for cold food catering trucks is $602 per year and $787 for hot food catering trucks. The rates would provide a reduction over the maximum rates authorized in Ordinance No. 1208. Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that this is the second reading. Finance Director William Fox had nothing further to add. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Davis. A roll call vote was taken: - Councilmember Martinez, yes - Councilmember Ybarra, yes - Councilmember Maisano, yes - Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, yes - Mayor McCormick, yes Ordinance No. 1214 was adopted. Motion carried, 5-0. PUBLIC COMMENT REVISITED Juliet Goff of Kal Plastics acknowledged the Light and Power Department for their prompt response to a meter failure at her facility. The projected time for repairs was estimated at four hours but staff was able to get service back up within two hours. Goff was thankful for the great service. ORAL REPORTS Police Chief Daniel Calleros announced that there is once again a spike in truck battery thefts. On September 23, 2013, an incident was captured on video. The suspect and vehicle have been identified; however the suspect has not been located as he is believed to be homeless. On September 24, 2013, a suspect placed suspicious packages under railcars. The immediate area was secured pending identification of the suspicious packages. Fire Hazmat personnel were notified. The investigation revealed that the clear plastic packages contained beef tongues that were stuffed Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 12 of 14 with pennies, part of an unusual ritual. The packages were deemed safe and removed by Railroad Police. On September 25, 2013, City Staff reported a metal valve cover stolen in the 5700 block of Alameda Street. There are no leads in this case and the exact theft date is unknown. Calleros reported that on September 28, 2013, the Farm Animal Rights Movement (“FARM”) conduct a peaceful demonstration in front of Farmer John in recognition of World Farm Animals Day. There were approximately 125 participants. The Police Department’s Mobile Field Force was deployed for the event; however, no additional resources were needed from surrounding agencies. Captain Michael Gillman announced that there was no vandalism to report. Mayor Pro-Tem Davis reported vandalism on a City Street sign on Downey Avenue near its boundary. Fire Chief Michael Wilson announced that the Department continues to support Breast Cancer Awareness by wearing their pink shirts. The HazMat physicals and SCBA fit testing will continue throughout the month. Training on the annual Air Management Search has been completed; Rapid Inventory Crew training is scheduled for this month. Wilson reported on responses to significant incidents including a dumpster fire that included several combustible metals in the City of Downey, the removal of a vehicle that drove through a wall into a building in the City of Compton, on oil spill as a result of a train derailment, a vehicle fire on the 710 freeway, a commercial fire at Douglass Steel, and a rescue of an injured person at the train corridor. Wilson also reported on a fatality after a man was found in a sewer, he drown in shallow water; the incident is an ongoing investigation. Director of Community Services and Water Kevin Wilson announced that META Corporation had advised that the application for tax credits on the new housing development project was approved. He will be working with the Health Department on the environmental impact report. The slurry seal project is nearing completion and is under budget. Wilson advised that a change order may be issued to address and clean up street conditions on Santa Fe and other City streets using the leftover funds as the contractor can perform the work at a lower cost than City staff. Director of Light and Power Carlos Fandino reported on a truck hit pole incident that occurred on September 28, 2013. The incident caused a power outage that lasted approximately 1.5 hours. The power pole was replaced; coincidently, the customer near the incident location had requested that the pole be moved. The customer’s request was accommodated and the pole was relocated during its replacement. Fandino reported on another outage on September 24, 2013 due to a Mylar balloon. Fandino recalled that during the previous meeting he reported that the turbine unit had failed the California Independent Systems Operator (“CAISO”) test. On September 24, 2013, Light and Power received a letter from CAISO advising that the unit is Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 13 of 14 disqualified until it can pass the test requirements. In negotiations with a representative, retesting of the unit was allowed. The unit was successful and was on-line within seven minutes, well below the ten minute threshold. It is now able to participate in the CAISO program. Fandino reported on staff’s efforts to mitigate monetary losses. He reported that $10,000 is the estimated loss due to the incident. An internal investigation on the cause of the failed test is ongoing. The Gas Department continues to work with Farmer John to install their service. The fiber optics division invited residents to participate in the City internet service program. Finance Director William Fox thanked Deputy City Attorney Scott Porter and Assistant to City Administrator Kristen Enomoto for their assistance on the expense reimbursement policy approved earlier this day. He advised that additional policies will be addressed as recommended as a result of the state audit and Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp. Fox noted that Risk Management is working with the Light and Power Department to recover losses from the truck hit power pole incident reported on earlier by Fandino. Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg announced the cancellation of the Sustainable Development and Energy Efficiency Commission meeting scheduled to be held on October 16, 2013, at 3:30 p.m. The next meeting thereafter will be in December. Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported on the meeting with the Health Benefit Committee which includes representatives from the six bargaining units. Employee information meetings are scheduled for October 7, 2013, to provide an update on City matters. McAllister introduced Lisette Michel, new Sr. Human Resources Analyst. Part of Michel’s tasks include the development of employee moral programs, employee recognition and service programs and employee newsletter. Michel introduced herself and looks forward to working with everyone. Assistant to the City Administrator Alex Kung announced the cancellation of the Successor Agency of the Redevelopment Agency meeting for this day. The Oversight Board to the Successor Agency of the Redevelopment Agency meeting is scheduled for October 3, 2013. Whole Foods is still in the due diligence of the Angeles Can property sale. Staff continues to wait on the Department of Finance for the approval of the long range asset management plan. Interim City Clerk Dana Reed advised that matters pertaining to the General Municipal Election in April 2014 will be presented to the City Council during the next meeting or at the November 5, 2013, meeting. At the City Attorney’s suggestion, there will be a precinct as this will not be an all-mail ballot election. City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported that a follow up letter from JLAC had been receipted. There are approximately ten pending items, most of which are progress updates. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes October 1, 2013 Page 14 of 14 Whitworth met with Maywood City Manager; they are interested in the grant services offered by California Consulting as they lack the funds to secure these services. The agreement with California Consulting has been amended to provide their services to the City of Maywood. Whitworth met with the Chamber of Commerce, a presentation will be provided to the City Council within the next few months. The Advisory Committee on Business Development is one of the items that will be addressed. He reported on attendance to the League of California Cities Conference and various topics discussed. During the next Council meeting Community Service and the Fire Department will be making presentations on their respective webpages. In conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness month, Mayor McCormick declared October 15, 2013 as breast cancer awareness day and encouraged staff to wear pink to show their support. He directed staff to make the announcement to employees. Whitworth added that t-shirts to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation are available for purchase in the Fire Department. At 10:42 a.m., it was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano, to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried, 5-0. ________________________ W. Michael McCormick Mayor ATTEST: _________________________ Dana Reed Interim City Clerk