Loading...
2014-05-20 City Council Minutes (Special and Regular)MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL AND REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF THE CITY OF VERNON HELD TUESDAY, MAY 20, 2014, IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY HALL LOCATED AT 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA MEMBERS PRESENT: McCormick, Davis, Maisano, Ybarra, and Martinez MEMBERS ABSENT: None SPECIAL MEETING The Special meeting of the City Council was called to order at 7:32 a.m. by Mayor McCormick. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor McCormick announced that this was the time allotted for public comment on the Special meeting portion of the Agenda, the Budget Study Session only, and inquired whether anyone in the audience wished to address the City Council. No one responded. BUDGET STUDY SESSION 1. Review of proposed budgets for fiscal year 2014-2015 for the following departments:  Gas and Electric Department  Public Works, Water and Development Services Department Director of Gas and Electric Carlos Fandino conducted the public budget study session and review of the proposed budgets for the Gas and Electric Department. Fandino noted that the proposed budget for fiscal year 2014-2015 has increased as a result of the increase in costs associated with the natural gas commodity and the Bicent contract. Fandino reported on the Department’s accomplishments and on its future challenges. In response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, Director of Gas and Electric Carlos Fandino reported that the City currently has approximately 185-190 megawatts. The goal is to reach 200 megawatts. In further response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, Fandino reported on the two turbines which are bid daily into the ISO (Independent System Operator) for resource adequacy. Fandino advised that each turbine is rated for 6 megawatts. Turbines are maintained, as they must be able to start within 10 minutes. He explained that the City received funds by having the units available. Fandino advised although the units are old, they are in good condition; however, the control system is dated and is sometimes an issue. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson conducted the public budget study session and review of the proposed budgets for his departments. Wilson advised that the forecast for the 2013-2014 fiscal year expenditures is significantly lower than what was initially budgeted due to the delay in certain capital projects. Wilson noted the overall reduction in staffing by approximately 40% over the last ten years. Among the department highlights, Wilson reported on the Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 2 of 14 approval of the Vernon housing project and commencement of construction. Wilson presented on the pavement condition summary and on proposed capital projects. Fees related to the Publics Works, Water and Development Services Department are proposed to increase to better reflect the actual costs. In response to Mayor Pro-Tem Davis’ concerns on whether encroachment permit work performed during the weekends are properly permitted, Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson advised that the Police Department is diligent in verifying whether work has been permitted. He furtherer advised that some utilities have an annual permit to perform necessary work. With no further discussion, at 8:25 a.m., the Special Meeting of the City Council was adjourned. REGULAR MEETING The Regular meeting of the City Council was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Mayor McCormick; Vernon Elementary School student Juliana Espinoza led the flag salute. CHANGES TO THE AGENDA Mayor McCormick announced that there are no changes to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor McCormick announced that this was the time allotted for public comment, and inquired whether anyone in the audience wished to address the City Council. Southeast political activist Sandra Orozco, a voice for those that suffer from multiple sclerosis (“MS”), thanked the Council for making various accommodations in the Council Chambers including the wheelchair accessible and availability of a wireless microphone in order to facilitate participate during public meeting. She reported on her intent to apply for residency at the new Vernon Village Park housing units, and on her attendance during the groundbreaking ceremony. Orozco intends to be very engaged in the community. PRESENTATIONS 1. Personnel Matters - Service Pin Awards The Council recognized Warehouse Worker Eric Anderson for his years of service as he could not attend the meeting. 2. The Police Department will conduct a presentation on the annual Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) essay awards for the Vernon Elementary School students that participated in the program. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 3 of 14 Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported on the D.A.R.E. program at the Vernon Elementary School. Officer Miguel Hernandez administered the program, which includes the final essay where students incorporating what they had learned, how they have applied it, and now they will continue to apply it in the future. Officer Hernandez thanked the Council and the Police Chief for allowing the City to continue the program as it helps students make smarter choices. The student put a lot of effort into their essays. Mayor McCormick and Officer Hernandez presented the awards as follows: Third place - Sebastian Marroquin Second place - Juliana Espinoza First place - Roberto Carlos Hernandez additionally thanked the Principal for allowing the Vernon Police Department to work with the children. 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. None. Warrant Registers 2. Approval of City Payroll Warrant Register No. 695, totaling $2,419,633.01, which covers the period of March 9, through April 5, 2014, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of direct deposits, checks and taxes totaling $1,779,895.30; and b. Checks and electronic fund transfers totaling $639,737.71. 3. Approval of City Warrant Register No. 1400, totaling $1,111,496.32, which covers the period of April 29, through May 12, 2014, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $876,884.95; and b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $143,996.41; and c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling $90,614.96. 4. Approval of Light & Power Warrant Register No. 365, totaling $1,165,028.49, which covers the period of April 29, through May 12, 2014, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $776,276.49; and b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $171,951.97; and Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 4 of 14 c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling $216,800.03. 5. Approval of Gas Warrant Register No. 153, totaling $177,938.54, which covers the period of April 29, through May 12, 2014, and consists of the following: a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $176,129.76; and b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling $1,808.78. Fire Department 6. Motorola Right of Entry Permit between the City of Vernon and Motorola Solutions, Inc. for site surveying and geotechnical/geological site surveying and sampling work. Recommendation: (1) Find that approval of the proposed Motorola Right of Entry Permit between the City of Los Angeles and the City of Vernon is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), because Public Resources Code § 21080.25 grants the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (“LA- RICS”) project a statutory CEQA exemption through January 1, 2017. In addition, the Right of Entry Permit is exempt because it does not represent any City commitment to a definite course of action or project approval within the meaning of CEQA (Cal. Code Regs., tit.14, § 15352(a)), and in accordance with Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15262, the exemption holding that conduct of feasibility or planning studies do not require CEQA review; and (2) Authorize the execution of a Permit between the City of Vernon and Motorola Solutions, Inc., in substantially the same form as submitted, for the purpose of conducting site surveying and geotechnical/geological site surveying and sampling work, as part of the architectural and design work for the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System Authority's ("LA-RICS Authority") LTE and PSBN projects. 7. Activity Report for the period of April 16, through April 30, 2014, to be received and filed. Gas and Electric Department 8. Base Contract with Anahau Energy for Sale and Purchase of Natural Gas (the “NAESB Contract”). Recommendation: (1) Find that the requested approval is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(b), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Authorize the Director of Gas & Electric to execute the North American Energy Standards Board (“NAESB”) contract by and between the City of Vernon (“City”) and Anahau Energy, Inc. in substantially the same form Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 5 of 14 as attached to the staff report, for the purpose of buying and selling natural gas to or from Anahau Energy, in compliance with the general terms established in the agreement. It is further recommended that the City Council find that, pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code § 2.17.12(A)(6), competitive bidding is not required because these are contracts for gas and/or electrical power for the city’s power utility, and that it would be commercially unreasonable to procure the gas or electricity through standard bidding or request for proposal procedures. 9. Base Contract with Iberdrola Energy Holdings, LLC for Sale and Purchase of Natural Gas (the “NAESB Contract”). Recommendation: (1) Find that the requested approval is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301(b), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Authorize the Director of Gas & Electric to execute the North American Energy Standards Board (“NAESB”) contract by and between the City of Vernon (“City”) and Iberdrola Energy Holdings, LLC (“Iberdrola”), in substantially the same form as attached to the staff report, for the purpose of buying and selling natural gas to or from Iberdrola, in compliance with the general terms established in the agreement. It is further recommended that the City Council find that, pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code § 2.17.12(A)(6), competitive bidding is not required because these are contracts for gas and/or electrical power for the city’s power utility, and that it would be commercially unreasonable to procure the gas or electricity through standard bidding or request for proposal procedures. 10. February 2014 Light and Power Resource Procurement Report, to be received and filed. Health and Environmental Control Department 11. A Proclamation of the Mayor and the City Council of the City of Vernon Declaring the Month of May 2014 as “CalFresh Awareness Month.” 12. March 2014 Monthly Report, to be received and filed. Police Department 13. Activity Log and Statistical Summary of Arrest and Activities for the period of April 16, through April 30, 2014, to be received and filed. Public Works, Water and Development Services Department 14. Approval of Notice Inviting Bids for Contract CS-0448, Refuse Collection, Recycling and Disposal Services. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 6 of 14 Recommendation: (1) Find that approval of the Notice Inviting Bids, per Contract CS-0448 for Refuse Collection, Recycling and Disposal Services is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with (a) Section 15061 (b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment and (b) Section 15301, because the proposed contract is simply the maintenance of existing facilities by removing refuse from those facilities, and there would be no expansion of use beyond that currently existing, and (2) Approve the Notice Inviting Bids per Contract CS-0448 for Refuse Collection, Recycling and Disposal Services. 15. Request for Approval to Advertise Contract No. CS-0421: 55th Street Storm Drain Improvements. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed Capital Improvement Project at 55th Street is categorically exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15303, New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, part (d), because the project is merely to construct a new storm drain system; and (2) Approve the contract and grant authority to advertise for bids for the 55th Street Storm Drain Improvements Project, Contract No. CS-0421 based upon the City’s standard public works bidding package. 16. Bid Award for Contract No. CS-0438: Elevated Tank Standpipe Repair. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed Elevated Tank Standpipe Repair is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, subsections (b) and (d), because the project involves negligible or no expansion of use beyond that existing at the lead agency’s determination; and (2) Accept the bid from Premier Tank Company, as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder and authorize the City Administrator to enter into a contract (in substantially the same form submitted), not to exceed $18,375.00, for the Elevated Tank Standpipe Repair, Contract No. CS-0438. Premier Tank Company was the only bid received in response to the solicitation for bids. 17. Building Department Report for the month of March 2014, to be received and filed. NEW BUSINESS Gas and Electric Department 1. Award of Bid and Purchase Contract to V-Bar, LLC for Meteorological Data Collection Services. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 7 of 14 Recommendation: (1) Find that awarding the bid as outlined in the staff report is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment, and pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15306, because the work merely involves data collection and resource evaluation activities which do not result in a serious or major disturbance to an environmental resource; and (2) Authorize the City Administrator to award a contract to V-Bar, LLC, in substantially the same form as attached to the staff report, for the purpose of securing meteorological data collection services. V- Bar, LLC was the only responding party to the Request for Proposals (“RFP”) issued by the City on March 27, 2014. The contract for V-Bar’s services proposes a three year term with a “not-to-exceed” cost of $72,000 per 12 month period, for a grand amount “not-to- exceed” $216,000 over the term of the contract. The contract would be effective starting July 1, 2014. It is further recommended that the City Council find that any deviations from the standard RFP posting practices in this particular instance were immaterial, and in no way detrimentally affected any potential bidder; but even if this were not the case, pursuant to Vernon Municipal Code 2.17.12(B)(2), “the best interests of the city are served by a direct award of the contract without a competitive selection process.” Director of Gas and Electric Carlos Fandino reported on the RFP process, advising that V-Bar, LLC (“V-Bar”) was the only vendor to respond. He reported on V-Bar’s work with the City, as the current vendor. In response to Mayor McCormick’s inquiry, Fandino explained that no direct mailings for the RFP were made; rather, pursuant to the Vernon Municipal Code and purchasing manual, the RFP was posted on the City’s website and published in the Vernon Sun. It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by Martinez to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby award the bid and purchase contract to V-Bar, LLC for meteorological data collecting services. Police Department 2. Approve Agreement Amendment for Inmate Housing Services. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed contract amendment authorization is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Authorize the Mayor to execute the contract amendment to the City’s existing agreement for inmate housing services with the Huntington Park Police Department, in substantially the same form as submitted, to extend the existing contract through June 30, 2015. All Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 8 of 14 terms and conditions outlined in the current agreement that are not specified in the amendment would remain unchanged. Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported that in June 2012 the City contracted with Huntington Park Police Department (“HP”) for inmate housing services. Part of the agreement allows for a 12- month extension; HP has agreed to such an extension. Calleros noted that over the last two years the services provided by HP have been great and cost effective. The agreement has resulted in approximately $60,000 in savings; additionally, staff is being utilized more efficiently as more officers are out on the field. The estimated cost for fiscal year 2014-2015 is included in the proposed budget. In response to Mayor McCormick, Calleros reported that the drop- off time is a quick turnaround due to their efficient process and close proximity. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby approve the Agreement Amendment for inmate housing services with the Huntington Park Police Department. Motion carried, 5-0. Public Works, Water and Development Services Department 3. Amendment No. 3 to the Services Agreement between the City of Vernon and Cannon Corporation for Engineering Design and Construction Support Services. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed Amendment No. 3 to the Services Agreement between the City of Vernon and Cannon Corporation for the Engineering Design and Construction Support Services for Well 21, is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines 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. 3 extending the Services Agreement between the City of Vernon and Cannon Corporation for the Engineering Design and Construction Support Services for Well 21, effective June 4, 2014 through December 31, 2015. It is further recommended that the City Council find that, consistent with Vernon Municipal Code 2.17.30, this professional services contract does not need to be rebid because it would be “commercially unreasonable” to rebid this contract; the additional requested spending authority is only $4,300, and rebidding the contract would not make economic sense given that most of the design work has already been accomplished. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson reported that since Cannon Corporation’s (“Cannon”) initial contract the City has adopted a Low Impact Development (“LID”) ordinance. The requirements were not contemplated in the initial plans. Wilson opined that it is best if the City complies with its own requirements. He recommends approval in order to comply with the LID ordinance requirements. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 9 of 14 It was moved by Davis and seconded by Martinez to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby approve Amendment No. 3 for the Service Agreement with Cannon Corporation for engineering design and construction support services. Motion carried, 5-0. 4. Amendment No. 2 to the Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard Agreement for legal services related to the housing development project. Recommendation: (1) Find that approval of the proposed amendment to the Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard Agreement is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Authorize the Mayor to execute a second amendment to the Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard (“KMT&G”) Agreement dated November 20, 2012, increasing the maximum fees by $15,000 for a total not-to-exceed cost of $110,000, and to extend the term of the contract for a little over 7 months beyond the existing maximum of three years. The original contract was the result of an advertised, competitive selection process and anticipated additional services on this housing project such as those to be secured through this amendment. It is further recommended that, to allow the contract to be extended beyond the existing three year period, the City Council find that, pursuant to section 2.17.30 of the Municipal Code it would be “commercially unreasonable” to rebid this contract for professional services. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson reported on the use of KMT&G for the housing project to oversee the development agreement and other related agreements. Wilson reported on his satisfaction with their work. He is recommending a 7-month extension to the agreement and an additional $15,000 to the contract total. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby approve Amendment No. 2 to the Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard Agreement for legal services relating to the housing development project. Motion carried, 5-0. 5. Approve the Memorandum of Agreement for the Coordinated Monitoring Plan of the Los Angeles River and Tributaries Metals Total Maximum Daily Load. Recommendation: (1) Find that the proposed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Gateway Cities Council of Governments (GCCOG) regarding the administration and cost sharing of the Coordinated Monitoring Plan (CMP) for the Los Angeles River and Tributaries Metals Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) is exempt under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) in accordance with Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 10 of 14 to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Enter into an MOA with GCCOG for monitoring, administration and cost sharing of the CMP for the Los Angeles River and Tributaries Metals TMDL and authorize the Mayor to execute the MOA. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson advised that this is concerning the storm water issues and requirements. Staff is proposing to extend the agreement for one year; this is in coordination with the Gateway Cities, approximately 26 cities. It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by Martinez to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby approve the Memorandum of Agreement for the coordinated monitoring plan of the Los Angeles River and tributaries metals total maximum daily load. Motion carried, 5-0. ORDINANCES 1. Ordinance No. 1221 - An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Vernon amending Article IV of Chapter 2 of the Vernon Municipal Code and repealing all ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict therewith. (second reading) Recommendation: (1) Find that (a) approval of the ordinance is not a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”), because CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b) excludes “continuing administrative or maintenance activities, such as purchases for supplies . . . and general policy and procedure making” from the definition of CEQA; and (b) even if it were a project, it would be exempt in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) Adopt the proposed Ordinance to amend Article IV of Chapter 2 of the Vernon Municipal Code, entitled, “Competitive Bidding and Purchasing Ordinance”, to thereby increase efficiencies and public accountability. It is further recommended that the City Council be reminded that Vernon’s Independent Reform Monitor, Mr. Van De Kamp, recommended that “the City review compliance with the Competitive Bidding and Purchasing Ordinance no later than June 30, 2014 to determine its effectiveness and whether any changes need to be made.” It was moved by Davis and seconded by Maisano to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby adopt Ordinance No. 1221. A roll call vote was taken: - Councilmember Martinez, yes - Councilmember Ybarra, yes - Councilmember Maisano, yes - Mayor Pro-Tem Davis, yes - Mayor McCormick, yes Motion to adopt Ordinance No. 1221 carried, 5-0. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 11 of 14 2. Ordinance No. 1222 - An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Vernon amending Article XIX, Sections 2.145, 2.146, 2.147, 2.147.1, 2.148 and 2.149 of Chapter 2 of the Vernon Municipal Code relating to the Sustainable Development and Energy Efficiency Commission (first reading) Recommendation: (1) The City Council find the proposed ordinance is a purely administrative function that is not a project within the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”). Further, even if it were subject to CEQA, it would be exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), the general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that may have an effect on the environment; and (2) The City Council hold the first reading of the proposed ordinance to amend Article XIX, sections 2.145, 2.146, 2.147, 2.147.1, 2.148 and 2.149 of the Vernon Municipal Code, to, among other things, rename the “Sustainable Development and Energy Efficiency Commission” to the “Green Vernon Commission” and to revise the terms of office of the Commission members. Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg reported on the approval of Ordinance No. 1188 establishing the rules and regulations for the Sustainable Development and Energy Efficiency Commission. He noted that minor changes were made in 2012. However, additional changes are being proposed, most importantly the name change to the Green Vernon Commission. The name change will make it easier to identify the Commission with its goals. Grossberg reported on the additional changes. It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Martinez to adopt the staff recommendations to thereby approve the first reading of Ordinance No. 1222. Motion carried, 5-0. ORAL REPORTS Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported on a strong arm robbery that occurred on May 7, 2014. He noted that on that day, a similar robbery had been committed in the City of South Gate; partial license plate information was obtained during this incident. With the information and the use of the fixed license plate reader system, Detectives are working with the South Gate Police Department to combine the cases, identify and arrest the suspects. On May 10, 2014, a shooting was reported in the area of Alameda Avenue and Vernon Avenue. The victim was stopped at a traffic signal, when another vehicle drove up; its occupants shot into the victim’s vehicle with a handgun. The victim managed to drive away with a minor gunshot wound and later notified Los Angeles Police Department. It is unknown whether this incident is gang related. Calleros reported on continued efforts to deter reckless driving in the City. On May 18, 2014, patrol officers arrested one individual for reckless driving. As previously reported, these types of incidents have been occurring in the region; the Police Department is taking an aggressive stance to curb the activity. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 12 of 14 Calleros reported on the Department’s involvement in conducting post-release community supervision of parolees along with other Southeast Area E police agencies. The Department has been allocated state funds for its participation in order to cover a portion of personnel costs. The amount awarded is approximately $47,000. Captain Michael Gillman reported that on May 18, 2014, patrol witnessed three subjects spray painting in the area of Santa Fe Avenue. One suspect was detained, two were not located. The Council had no vandalism to report. Fire Chief Michael Wilson reported on the scheduled participation at the Farmer John health fair on May 30, 2014. Crews will be taking blood pressure and providing information on fire safety and prevention. Crews will be continuing the Fill the Boot fundraising on May 22, 2014 in the area of Soto Street and Leonis Avenue. Wilson reported on the successful Boy Scout Pancake Breakfast event held on May 17, 2014. Crews are working on wild land brush fire training and strike team leader training for Battalion Chiefs. On May 6, 2014, crews responded to a grass fire on Atlantic Boulevard next to the 710 freeway; the fire originated from a homeless encampment. In response to a fire alarm, crews were able to contain a building fire that occurred on May 10, 2014. Upon investigation, it was determined that numerous boxes had been stacked against an electrical outlet causing the fire. Wilson additionally reported on the crew’s response to the fire at Camp Pendleton. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson reported on the application for a grant to conduct a bike path study to determine whether it is appropriate for the City. Wilson reported that he has received a lot of interest regarding a bike path. The Vernon Chamber of Commerce conducted a survey; opinions of those surveyed vary extremely from full support to rejection. Director of Gas and Electric Carlos Fandino reported that on May 11, 2014, the City experienced a power outage that lasted 7 hours and 9 minutes. Although Vernon staff responded quickly, Southern California Edison had to patrol their lines as the outage was out of Vernon’s jurisdiction. Director of Finance and City Treasurer William Fox advised that the annual financial audit for fiscal year 2013-2014 has begun. Although the fiscal year is not done, the City’s audits and controls are being tested; if there are issues, the intent is to resolve them before the end of the fiscal year. The transition of the City owned housing management to the Finance Department is in progress. Public Housing Property Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 13 of 14 Coordinator Jonathan Dougherty has been hired and will start on May 21, 2014. Fox reported on the new bid and quote EDEN module as a means to further automate and streamline the process. In response to Mayor McCormick, Fox reported that effective June 1, rent fees can be paid at the City; a communication to the residents will be included in the monthly statement. Ultimately, payment may be made online. Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg reported that the Thermador property and the Pechiney property are in the final stages of closure by the Department of Toxic Substances Control. Grossberg announced the soon to be named Green Vernon Commission meeting scheduled for June 18, 2014, at 3:30 p.m. Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister reported on the upcoming Wellness Initiatives. The department continues to assist departments in their staff recruitment. Negotiations with the bargaining units continue. Economic Development Manager/ Successor Agency Staff Alex Kung announced the next Oversight Board to the Successor Agency Meeting scheduled to be held June 5, 2014, at 4:00 p.m. Kung reported that Huntington Park received a grant of $25,000 for the lighting at the Salt Lake Park. The grant was secured through the assistance of Vernon’s grants coordinator. Huntington Park will be making additional efforts to secure additional funds. City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported on his and Council’s attendance to the California Contract Cities Conference. Staff is working on assembling candidate for the Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee. Whitworth reported on the Advisory Committee for Electric Rates meeting held on May 7, 2014. He noted that the Committee was pleased with staff’s presentation; they at least now have a better understanding of the City’s challenges. He announced the Vernon Housing Commission meeting on June 11, 2014. Whitworth reported on the receipt of the WARN Act notice from Trinity Sports; approximately 130 employees will be affected. He noted that as a result of the classification and compensation study, several titles have changed. In response to Independent Reform Monitor John Van De Kamp’s inquiry on the progress of the City Attorney recruitment, Director of Human Resources Teresa McAllister advised that an outside interview panel will conduct the initial screening. The top candidates will be referred to the City Council for final selection. Whitworth additionally added that it is anticipated that the process will have concluded by July. In response to Van de Kamp, Deputy City Administrator Kristen Enomoto advised that the inaugural meeting for the Vernon Community Fund Grant Committee is anticipated by July or August. Council selection of the proposed candidates will be scheduled during a June Council meeting. Special and Regular City Council Meeting Minutes May 20, 2014 Page 14 of 14 In further response to Van de Kamp, Enomoto reported that even before the concept was conceived the City had received request for financial assistance. Jemmott Rollins Group was contracted as they have philanthropic expertise; these and other similar requests have been referred to them for follow-up. New requests are directed to the online application for grant funds. During the June 17th Council meeting, funds for the Vernon Community Fund will be addressed. In response to Van de Kamp, Enomoto advised that only certain funds from the current budget were expended and that funds may be carried over to the next fiscal year. Enomoto reported that the revisit of the Advisory Committee for Business Development is in the queue for an upcoming Council meeting. Staff will be proposing one Commission that incorporates both Advisory Committees. In response to Van de Kamp’s concerns over the recent WARN Act notice and the closure of a Vernon business, Whitworth explained that it is the nature of the clothing industry. Director of Public Works, Water and Development Services Kevin Wilson advised that he will provide additional information on the increased permit activity during the next Council meeting. CLOSED SESSION Mayor McCormick asked whether any member of the public wished to address the Council on the closed session agenda. Nobody wished to address the Council. At 10:05 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, Teresa McAllister Employee Organizations: Vernon Police Management Association At 10:42 a.m., it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to exit closed session. Motion carried, 5-0. Deputy City Attorney Zaynah Moussa announced that there is no reportable action. With no further business, at 10:42 p.m., Mayor McCormick adjourned the meeting. ________________________ W. Michael McCormick Mayor ATTEST: _________________________ Ana Barcia Deputy City Clerk