20130219 Regular City Council Meeting - MinutesMINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF
THE CITY OF VERNON HELD TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2013,
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY HALL LOCATED
AT 4305 SANTA FE AVENUE, VERNON, CALIFORNIA
MEMBERS PRESENT: Davis, McCormick, Maisano, Ybarra, Martinez
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. by Mayor Davis.
Councilmember Ybarra led the flag salute.
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that there were no
changes to the agenda.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed announced that this was the time
allotted for public comment. Mayor Davis inquired whether
anyone in the audience wished to address the City Council.
There was no response.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Service Pin Awards.
Mayor Davis presented Police Officer Lorenzo Gaytan and
Utilityman II Rafael Cortes with service pins for their many
years of service.
Fire Engineer Bryan Dome and Engineering Aide Erik Stene were
acknowledged for their years of service as they were not able to
attend the meeting.
2. Introduction of Ivdn Carrillo, Field Representative for
State Senator Ricardo Lara.
City Administrator Mark Whitworth requested that the item be
deferred as Mr. Carrillo was not yet present.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. Public comments on the request to grant a Conditional Use
Permit for the operation of an incidental use facility and
a Variance from the requirements of Section 26.5.1-6(f) of
the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
Director of Community Service and Water Department Kevin Wilson
reported that SKU Trading, Inc. intends to increase their office
space by adding within the existing building. The proposed
addition exceeds limits for ancillary use; however, this is
permitted with a Conditional Use Permit ("CUP"). Wilson
presented on the proposed parking adjustments, and noted that
they will be limiting the truck size to 45 feet. It is
anticipated that there will be no impact to the neighbors.
Proposed changes are consistent with the general plan and zoning
ordinance. Wilson reported the various exemptions to the
project. Wilson advised that if the CUP is approved a notice of
exemption will be filed with the County Clerk.
At 9:12 a.m., it was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano
to open the public hearing for public comment concerning the
Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
February 19, 2013
granting of a Conditional Use Permit for the operation of an
incidental use facility and a Variance from the requirements of
Section 26.5.1-6(f) of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Hearing no comments, at 9:13 a.m., it was moved by McCormick and
seconded by Martinez to close the public hearing. Motion
carried, 5-0.
Recommendation to approve a resolution approving a
variance from the requirements of Section 26.5.1-6(f)
for the unobstructed maneuvering space and conditional
use permit for an incidental use, subject to certain
conditions, to SKU Trading, Inc. for the property
located at 2600 Santa Fe Avenue:
Resolution No. 2013-28 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Approving a Variance
from Section 26.5.1-6(f) of the Comprehensive Zoning
Ordinance and a Conditional Use Permit to SKU Trading,
Inc., for the Operation of an Incidental Use Facility
located at 2600 Santa Fe Avenue
It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by McCormick to approve
Resolution No. 2013-28. Motion carried, 5-0.
2. Public Comment on Water Rate Adjustment; a revised water
rate adjustment is required to fully fund the City's water
enterprise:
Director of Community Service and Water Department Kevin Wilson
summarized the presentation on the proposed water rate
adjustments. He explained that the proposed pass -through would
be an automatic adjust to the water rates if the City's costs
should increase. Notice to the customers would be provided
prior to any adjustments. The proposed would be effective
January 1, 2014.
Wilson reported that one letter was received opposing the
proposed water rate adjustment.
At 9:23 a.m., it was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano
to open the public hearing for public comment concerning the
Water Rate Adjustment. Motion carried, 5-0.
City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez confirmed that no other
protests were received other than the letter previously
announced by Wilson.
At 9:24 a.m., it was moved by Maisano and seconded by Martinez
to close the public hearing. Motion carried, 5-0.
Recommendation to approve the revised water rate
schedule in order to fully fund the City of Vernon's
enterprise costs. The revised rate schedule should be
made effective March 1, 2013:
Resolution No. 2013-29 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Adopting a Revised
Schedule of Water Rates
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It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Martinez to approve
Resolution No. 2013-29. Motion carried, 5-0.
3. Public comments to consider the expenditure of the Citizen
Options for Public Safety (COPS) Funds for fiscal year
2012-2013.
Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported that the Police Department
is scheduled to receive $100,000 by June 30, 2013. Over the
past two years funds have been used to pay for non -sworn
positions. Calleros clarified that there is no cost sharing.
The public hearing notice was published in the Vernon Sun and no
comments were received.
At 9:27 a.m., it was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano
to open the public hearing for public comment to consider the
expenditure of the Citizen Options for Public Safety (COPS)
Funds for fiscal year 2012-2013. Motion carried, 5-0.
Hearing no questions or comments, at 9:27 a.m., it was moved by
McCormick and seconded by Ybarra to close the public hearing.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Recommendation to approve a resolution authorizing the
expenditures of the funds to pay some salary costs for
civilian support personnel (Civilian Court Officer and
one Dispatcher) in fiscal year 2012/2013 and or
2013/2014:
Resolution No. 2013-30 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon providing for the
Appropriation of the Citizens Option for Public Safety
(COPS) Program Funds Received for Fiscal Year 2012-
2013 for Frontline Municipal Police Services
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano to approve
Resolution No. 2013-30. Motion carried, 5-0.
PRESENTATIONS (REVISITED)
City Administrator requested that Council revisit the
introduction of Ivdn Carrillo, Field Representative for State
Senator Ricardo Lara, as he is now present.
Carrillo formally introduced himself and Senator Lara as the
representative to the 33rd Senate District which represents
Vernon as well as other local cities. Carrillo reported on
Senator Lara's 15-year career in legislation, most recently, two
years as an elected official. He stated that Vernon is
important to the local and state economy.
Carrillo's reported on his meeting with City Administration. He
advised that he is available to all. He announced the Community
Celebration Event in Huntington Park scheduled for March 7,
2013. He welcomed all to attend.
HOUSING ELEMENT
1. Recommendation to adopt a resolution amending the Land Use
Element and the Housing Element of the General Plan to
allow the construction of residential housing units and an
emergency shelter within specific zones. Adopt an
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February 19, 2013
ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance and Map setting
forth the overlay zones for said housing and shelter, and
establishing criteria for the construction of each.
Furthermore, recommendation to approve a Development
Agreement and a Disposition and Development Agreement with
Meta Housing Corporation for the construction of the
residential units at 4675 52nd Drive:
Consultant Jon Goetz advised that the disposition and
development agreement is new and was not part of the documents
presented at the previous City Council meeting. He explained
that the agreement is for the City to lease the 2-acre parcel to
Meta Housing Corporation ("Meta") for the development of
affordable housing. He clarified that the lease will not take
effect until the developer is ready to commence, as in funding,
tax credits, and permits have all been completed.
The lease agreement is for 65 years with an optional additional
ten years. The rent is set at $1 per year and is based on an
economical analysis of the City and the restrictions on the rent
that is to be charged to the lessee. The lease does allow for
additional charges if more rent is to be charged to the lessees
or in case of refinancing. However, Goetz noted that this is
not anticipated. Goetz explained that the cities contribution
is providing the land. The Disposition and Development
Agreement ("DDA") requires that the property be developed as
previously outlined. Goetz provided examples of the various
requirements. Goetz noted the inclusion of a management plan in
the DDA and the random selection process of the tenants through
a lottery system.
Furthermore, the DDA requires capital reserves for ongoing
maintenance. The City also has the right to name the project.
The project is on a strict schedule that allows for the City to
take back the project if it's delayed. Because of the lease,
the City will retain ownership of the underlying land;
therefore, at term on the agreement the City will get the
project back.
Director of Community Services and Water Kevin Wilson reported
that the public hearing on the housing element had been
conducted at the previous City Council meeting and that two
letters were received. City of Maywood and South Coast Air
Quality Management District ("SCAQMD") letters were addressed
and information was provided as requested.
The City had shared Maywood's concern on whether there would be
sufficient parking, but based on various studies believes that
there is sufficient parking. Wilson discussed Maywood's concern
regarding traffic impacts and advised that the studies performed
indicated that there will be no traffic impacts from the
project. SCAQMD's concerns were more technical in nature.
Wilson advised that the consultant provided a response. Since
then, SCAQMD has responded via email. However, the response was
not received timely, and a change to the resolution adopting the
initial study/mitigated negative declaration is recommended.
The proposed amendment will reduce potential health risks to
future tenants due to Vernon's industrial environment. Wilson
felt that it was appropriate to make the changes.
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In response to Councilmember Ybarra, Wilson advised that there
will be no additional street parking, as the width of the street
will not accommodate it.
Interim City Clerk, Dana Reed announced the documentation that
is to be filed with the City Clerk's Office in connection with
the housing project.
Councilman Ybarra inquired whether the City Attorney had
reviewed the DDA and whether he had any concerns. In response,
City Attorney, Nicholas Rodriguez advised that he concurs with
the recommendation and recommends Council approval.
Resolution No. 2013-31 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Adopting the Initial
Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Proposed
Affordable Housing Development at 4675 52nd Drive,
Associated Development Agreement, Disposition and
Development Agreement, General Plan Amendments, and
Zoning Ordinance and Map Amendments; and Adopting the
Mitigation Monitoring Reporting Program
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Ybarra to approve
Resolution No. 2013-31 with amendments. Motion carried, 5-0.
Resolution No. 2013-32 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Approving Amendments to
the Housing Element and Land Use Element of the City
General Plan
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Martinez to approve
Resolution No. 2013-32. Motion carried, 5-0.
Ordinance No. 1203 - An Uncodified Ordinance of the
City Council of the City of Vernon Approving the
Development Agreement Between the City and Meta
Housing Corporation (first reading)
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano to approve the
first reading of Ordinance No. 1203. Motion carried.
Resolution No. 2013-33 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Approving a Disposition
and Development Agreement by and between the City of
Vernon and Meta Housing Corporation
It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by Maisano to approve
Resolution No. 2013-33. Motion carried, 5-0.
Ordinance No. 1204 - An Uncodified Ordinance of the
City Council of the City of Vernon Approving the
Development Agreement Between the City and Meta
Housing Corporation (first reading)
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano to approve the
first reading of Ordinance No. 1204. Motion carried, 5-0.
City Administrator Mark Whitworth announced that the Housing
Element Project addresses the concerns of Senator Kevin De Leon
and Independent Reform Monitor, John Van de Kamp. He commended
Wilson and support staff on the excellent work.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano approved the
matters listed on the Consent Calendar as recommended. Motion
carried, 5-0.
Claims Against the City
1. None received
Warrant Registers
2. Ratification of the following City Warrant Registers to
record the following voided checks:
a. City Warrant Register No. 1357 to record voided Check
No. 337455 in the amount of $20.00; and
b. City Warrant Register No. 1373 to record voided Check
No. 340035 in the amount of $4,499.55.
3. Approval of Payroll Warrant Register No. 680, totaling
$2,787,668.49, which covers the period of December 16,
2012, through January 12, 2013, and consists of the
following:
a. Ratification of direct deposits, checks and taxes
totaling $2,000,649.70; and
b. Checks and electronic fund transfers (EFTS) through
the General bank account totaling $787,018.79.
4. Approval of City Warrant Register No. 1374, totaling
$1,849,561.62, which covers the period of January 30,
through February 11, 2013, and consists of the following:
a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $1,135,856.59;
and
b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$520,387.67; and
c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$193,317.36.
5. Approval of Light & Power Warrant Register No. 339,
totaling $1,111,213.61, which covers the period of January
30, through February 11, 2013, and consists of the
following:
a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $981,767.89;
and
b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$50,658.96; and
c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$78,786.76.
6. Approval of Gas Warrant Register No. 127, totaling
$155,159.43, which covers the period of January 30,
through February 11, 2013, and consists of the following:
a. Ratification of wire transfers totaling $123,608.43;
and
b. Ratification of the issuance of early checks totaling
$125.04; and
c. Authorization to issue pending checks totaling
$31,425.96.
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Community Services & Water Department
7. Building Department Report for the month of January 2013,
to be received and filed.
8. Recommendation to approve the proposed Quitclaim Deed for
a portion of 45th Street east of Alcoa Avenue:
Resolution No. 2013-34 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Approving and
Authorizing the Execution of a Quitclaim Deed for
Property Located at 45th Street
Fire Department
9. Activity Report for the period of January 16, through
January 31, 2013, to be received and filed.
Health Department
10. January 2013 Monthly Report, to be received and filed.
Light & Power Department
11. October 2012 Resource Procurement Report, to be received
and filed.
Police Department
12. Activity Log and Statistical Summary of Arrest and
Activities for the period of January 16, through January
31, 2013, to be received and filed.
RESOLUTIONS
Community Services and Water Department
1. Recommendation to approve the Notice Inviting bids and Bid
Specifications for `Citywide Concrete Repair and
Replacement FY 2013-2014' project, Contract No. CS-0275:
Director of Community Services and Water Department Kevin Wilson
advised that the request for bids is to repair city sidewalks
and eliminate tripping hazards. In a survey of the City,
extreme locations were identified where Wilson believes it is
necessary to conduct repair. Funds specifically set aside for
these types of projects will be used.
Resolution No. 2013-35 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Authorizing the Issuance
of a Notice Inviting Sealed, Competitive Bids for
Citywide Concrete Repair and Replacement, Contract No.
CS-0275
It was moved by Maisano and seconded by Ybarra to approve
Resolution No. 2013-35. Motion carried, 5-0.
2. Recommendation to approve the Notice Inviting Bids and Bid
Specifications for `Citywide Pedestrian Countdown Head
Replacement, HSIP Cycle-4' project, Contract No. CS-0192:
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Director of Community Services and Water Department Kevin Wilson
reported that the City had applied for and received grant fund
through the HSIP Cycle-4 Project for the replacement of
pedestrian countdowns at traffic signals. Wilson requests the
authorization of the notice inviting bids. He advised that the
project will be 100o funded through the grants.
In response to Councilmember Ybarra, Wilson clarified that all
signal which do not already have the pedestrian countdown will
be replaced.
Resolution No. 2013-36 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Authorizing the Issuance
of a Notice Inviting Sealed, Competitive Bids for
Citywide Pedestrian Countdown Head Replacement, HSIP
Cycle-4 Project, Contract No. CS-0192
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Martinez to approve
Resolution No. 2013-36. Motion carried, 5-0.
Fire Department
3. Recommendation to approve the Urban Area Security
Initiative 2012 Subrecipient Agreement; a grant between
the City of Vernon and the City of Los Angeles providing
grant funds to the Fire and Police Departments for
equipment and training:
Interim Fire Chief David Kimes reported that through the program
the City will receive approximately $188,000 which will allow
the Fire and Police Departments to purchase equipment. Funds
will be split between the two.
Resolution No. 2013-37 - A Resolution of the City
Council of the City of Vernon Approving and
Authorizing the City's Participation in the 2012 Urban
Areas Security Initiative Grant Program, Approving and
Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement by and
between the City of Vernon and the City of Los
Angeles, and Authorizing the Execution of Documents
necessary to obtain the Grant
It was moved by Ybarra and seconded by McCormick to approve
Resolution No. 2013-37. Motion carried, 5-0.
ORDINANCES
1. Recommendation to adopt an Ordinance to implement a
personnel merit system for Vernon employees by delegating
the authority over personnel matters to the City
Administrator, except with respect to the City Attorney,
City Attorney's staff, and except with respect to
appointment of Department Heads which appointment shall
remain with City Council. The ordinance shall not alter
or amend language contrary to personnel matters presently
subject to existing MOU's:
City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported that the ordinance
was first brought to City Council for consideration on February
5, 2013, and that requests for revisions were made. He reported
that during the November 8, 2011, Election, Measure C was
approved by the voters, removing the at -will provision allowing
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Council to revisit the system for personnel. After vetting
through the options and reviewing other cities' systems, staff
is recommending a merit system. When first introduced, Council
had concerns over the authority and oversight of Department
Heads.
Through the use of a merit system, authority over city personnel
is delegated to the City Administrator, with the exception of
the Department Heads which will remain with the City Council.
Whitworth clarified that the ordinance will not alter the
existing Memorandums of Understanding.
Councilmember Ybarra is please to see the changes to the
ordinance but opined that authority to terminate Department
Heads should also remain with the City Council. He also sought
clarification on how the approval of Measure C affected the
employees.
In response, Whitworth advised that with the removal of the at -
will provision, by default the City operates under State
provisions.
City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez further clarified that general
law provisions govern.
Director of Human Resources Teresa McAllister advised that the
proposed merit system is the guiding principle. All promotions
and appointments will be based on merit. What needs to be
clarified is the authority; policies and procedures are to
follow.
McAllister advised that for morale and the development of
existing employees, if there are five qualified existing
employee candidates within Band 1, the City will promote within.
The policies and procedures will be presented to City Council
but before they are presented there is an obligation to meet and
review with the various associations.
Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick stated that before the City
Administrator is terminated it will go through the City Council.
It was confirmed by Whitworth.
McAllister stated that the final authority in the grievance
procedures for the Memorandums of Understanding is the City
Council.
Whitworth stated that the Department Head level is the
separation between the Council's and the City Administrator's
authority.
Councilmember Ybarra requested that language stating that the
City Council has authority over the termination of Department
Heads be included in the Ordinance.
Deputy City Attorney Scott Porter reported that as currently
written, the Ordinance requires the City Administrator to
present any termination of Department Heads to the City Council,
but that the City Administrator still has the final authority.
The language is there to limit the Council's liability.
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Rodriguez advised that the Ordinance will be amended to state
that the City Administrator shall advise the Council of any
proposed termination of Department Heads prior to the
termination date.
Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick stated that any termination should be
brought to Council prior to the effective date, not just
Department Heads.
Ordinance No. 1202 - An Ordinance of the City Council
of the City of Vernon Adding a New Article I, Section
2.4, to Chapter 2 of the Vernon Municipal Code to
Establish a Personnel Merit System and Amending
Article I, Section 2.6-6(C), Regarding the Authority
of the City Administrator in Personnel Matters and
Organization (first reading)
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Ybarra to approve the
first reading of Ordinance No. 1202, with amendments stating
that any employee termination is to be brought to City Council
prior to the effective date. Motion carried, 5-0.
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE INSTRUCTIONS TO STAFF
1. Discussion on a possible non-smoking ordinance.
Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg
advised that the discussion comes at the request of one of the
Council members. Previous actions on the matter by the Council
were limited to the City's workplace. He reported that the
State Assembly and Senate passed a bill applicable to public
areas, which allows landlords to place and enforce smoking
restrictions.
Grossberg advised that Council has two options; it can fall
under the current state requirements and leave smoking
restrictions up to the landlords or adopt a non-smoking
ordinance and place harsher restrictions, and identify who will
enforce said restrictions.
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed advised that as it pertains to city
owned housing, it is the Vernon Housing Commission not the
Council that will need to approve any amendments to the leases.
Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick stated that no further action is
necessary as the request came about due to a resident's smoking
habits. Since then, said resident has moved out. McCormick
opined that any restrictions would be imposing on people's
rights.
Councilmember Martinez stated that there is still the risk of
secondhand smoke.
Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick stated that he was against any
recommendation.
Grossberg referred to the state bill on smoking, and summarized
that any lease can have smoking restrictions as part of the
agreement.
In response to Mayor Davis, Grossberg reported that thirteen
jurisdictions passed their own ordinances prior to the state
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February 19, 2013
bill, some of which are said to be very restrictive. Grossberg
provided examples from various jurisdictions.
Councilmember Maisano inquired whether adopting an ordinance
would be too restrictive.
Mayor Pro-Tem Davis recommended that smoking restrictions be
left to the landlords.
Grossberg advised that the matter will be left to the landlords
under the current state bill. In response to Councilmember
Ybarra, he confirmed that that is what the City is currently
under. The City will simply provide guidance and information.
ORAL REPORTS
Police Chief Daniel Calleros reported that on February 5, 2013,
members from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
("PETA") conducted a demonstration in front of Clougherty Meat
Packing Company/Farmer John from 12:OOp.m. to 1:00 p.m. The
demonstration was peaceful as demonstrators merely held banners.
Calleros reported on a grand theft that occurred on February 6,
2013. According to the reporting party, two suspects removed
the electric gate opener from the company. The theft was
captured on video. Calleros noted an increase in these types of
thefts over the past few months. Most of which occurred in the
mid -section of the City during the early morning hours. The
description of the suspect's vehicles will be shared with other
local law enforcement agencies.
On February 18, 2013, an injury traffic accident involving a
metro bus and a pedestrian was reported in the area of Pacific
and Fruitland Avenue. Calleros reported that it is believed
that the female pedestrian fell onto the roadway in the bus stop
area and that the backpack she was carrying got caught on the
bus' frontend frame. It was not until the bus stopped in the
area of Pacific and Fruitland Avenue where other pedestrians
waiting to board noticed that the female was under the frontend
of the bus. Vernon Fire and Paramedics responded to the scene
and extracted the female. The female was transported to a local
hospital and is listed in critical condition.
Captain James Rodino reported vandalism on February 11, 2013, at
2906 Leonis and vandalism on February 14, 2013 at 2901 Saco.
Interim Fire Chief David Kimes reported that there have been
approximately 50 service calls since the last Council meeting
including two commercial structural fires. Kimes expanded on
Calleros' report on the female trapped under the bus. He
reported that it took 20 minutes to remove her from the under
the bus as the bus had to be lifted. He commended safety
personnel for their fast work.
He reported on personnel's multi -casualty incident training in
Montebello and reported on the paramedics engineering class in
order to learn how to drive the fire apparatus.
Director of Light & Power Carlos Fandino reported on a 4.5 hour
power outage on February 6, 2013, at Sweet Rain Co. Replacement
of the transformers was necessary. On February 9, 2013, Red
Chamber reported partial power at their facilities. It was
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determined that one of the circuits had fallen causing a 9-
minute power outage affecting 21 customers. The cause is under
investigation.
Due to a Mylar balloon, on February 17, 2013, 38 customers
experienced a 1 hour 42 minute interruption. On February 16,
2013, electric dispatchers responded to Unicorn Distribution to
review an electrical panel that had been opened. No signs of
tampering were detected; an e-lock was installed for security.
On February 17, 2013, the Malburg Generating Station ("MGS") was
down. The cause was a Mylar balloon on a Southern California
Edison power pole. MGS was back up within 12 hours.
Fandino advised that by the next Council meeting he will be able
to provide an update on the California Air Resource Auction and
Vernon's participation for greenhouse gas credits.
Additionally, the department intends to present incentive
programs for utility users to the City Council.
Director of Health and Environmental Control Leonard Grossberg
announced the e-waste event on March 13, 2013, at Fire Station
No. 1. The cancelation of the Sustainable Development and
Energy Efficiency Commission meeting on February 20, 2013, was
also announced. The next meeting is scheduled for April 17,
2013.
Director of Community Services and Water Kevin Wilson advised
that he had nothing further to report. Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick
thanked Wilson for his hard work on the housing element.
Human Resources Director Teresa McAllister announced that staff
is working on five new employee policies to be presented at the
March 19, 2013, Council meeting.
Director of Finance William Fox reported on the request for
proposals for the cost allocation and fee study. Pursuant to
the newly adopted Purchasing Ordinance, a new manual has been
drafted. Final form will be available on the City's website.
The annual financial audit is due within the week. A
presentation on said audit will be presented at the next Council
meeting.
Assistant to City Administrator Alex Kung announced the
Oversight Board to the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment
Agency meeting on March 7, 2013, and the Successor Agency to the
Redevelopment Agency meeting on March 5, 2013.
On February 11, 2013, the County Department of Finance requested
additional documents regarding the Due Diligence Review.
According to Legal Counsel, Gustavo Lamanna, the request is
standard protocol. Responsive documents were sent on February
14, 2013.
City Administrator Mark Whitworth reported on a meeting at
Farmer John with 15 high energy users. Along with the Director
of Finance and City Attorney, he conducted a presentation. The
Director of Light and Power provided an update on renewable
portfolio standards and other utility matters. Meetings will be
continuous.
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Whitworth announced that the informational presentation on the
proposed tax measures was held on February 12, 2013, at 6:30
p.m. at the Holy Angel Church of the Deaf. The City received
good feedback. In consideration of the proposed taxes and fees,
catering trucks opined that much burden would be placed on their
type of service. Independent Reform Monitor John Van de Kamp
also attended the presentation and provided comments. Marissa
Olguin of the Chamber of Commerce also attended but has not
provided any formal endorsement.
Whitworth announced a teamsters meeting for miscellaneous
employees to be held later in the day. Employees are free to
attend at their own discretion.
Mayor Pro-Tem McCormick reported on his meeting with Battalion
Chief Michael Wilson on an upcoming Boy Scouts Pancake Breakfast
event.
Mayor Davis reported on his attendance to the informational
presentation on February 12, 2013. He advised that the
presentation was well attended. He requested that staff work on
addressing the catering trucks' concerns. Councilmember Ybarra
concurred with the request.
PUBLIC HEARINGS (READDRESSED)
Interim City Clerk Dana Reed requested that the public hearing
and resolution on the expenditure of the Citizen Options for
Public Safety (COPS) Funds be revisited. Amendments to the
resolution clarifying how the funds are to be used need to be
made.
Police Chief Daniel Calleros specified that the funds will be
used for a Court Officer and Dispatcher.
It was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano to approve
Resolution No. 2013-30 with amendments. Motion carried, 5-0.
CLOSED SESSION
At 11:07 a.m. it was moved by McCormick and seconded by Maisano
that the City Council go into closed session to discuss the item
listed under closed session. Motion carried, 5-0.
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION
Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
Name of Case: Jerry Chavez vs. City of Vernon
Workers' Compensation Appeals Board
Case No. CAWC-1100
At 11:11 a.m. it was moved by McCormick and seconded by
Martinez, that the City Council exit closed session. Motion
carried, 5-0.
City Attorney Nicholas Rodriguez reported that the City Council
settled the matter according to the recommendation and findings.
Page 13 of 14
Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
February 19, 2013
Hearing no other business at 11:12 a.m., it was moved by
McCormick and seconded by Maisano, that the meeting be
adjourned. Motion carried.
Int
�Q
William J. Davis
Mayor
Page 14 of 14