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08-22-1960 - Regular Meeting - MinutesV • MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA AUGUST 22, 1960 The meeting was called to order by Mayor Heath at 7:40 P.M. in the West Covina City Hall. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilman Towner, with the invocation given by City Clerk Flottene ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Heath, Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder Others Present: Mr. Robert Flotten, City Clerk Mr. George Aiassa, City Manager Mr. Dwight Newell - in absence of the City Attorney Mr. Thomas bosh, Public Services Director. Mr. Harold Joseph, Planning Coordinator Absent: Mr, Harry C. Williams, City Attorney APPROVAL OF MINUTES July 25, 1960 - Approved as submitted. July 28, 1960 - Approved as submitted. CANVASS OF BALLOTS - ANNEXATION NO. 165 Mayor Heath questioned the City Clerk as to whether ballots were ready to be canvassed and the City Clerk indicated that they were and directed' Councilmen Snyder and Barnes to act as Clerks relative to this matter. Mayor Heath to act as inspector. City Clerk Flottene Let the record show that there were two (2) applications for absentee voters ballots which have been duly signed and checked with the Registration Affidavits in the Office of the Registrar of Voters in Los Angeles. The envelopes have been received in good order and in accordance to law, and this matter should be handled in the same manner as any other election in that there is the opportunity of person(s) to challenge any vote cast. , The applications for absentee ballots were from John He McKenzie and Carolyn L. McKenzie. Let the record show that the two absentee ballots were duly received, numbered 101 and 102, and the remainder of the 100 absentee ballots are legally cancelled. Both the absentee ballots show a vote of 'Yes' and I now submit them to the Clerks for their inspection. To proceed with the count of the original ballots, there were thirty-one (31) votes for and nineteen (19) votes against and with the addition of the votes of the two absentee ballots the total would now be thirty-three votes (33) for and nineteen (19) against the Annexation. • Mr. Newell: There has been a stay order g t#19de on the City, showing cause which the Court has indicated relative to further proceedings by Councilmen and City Clerk towards completion of the annexation. However, there was stricken from the original stay order the petition to stop the canvassing of returns and the passage of the ordinance and resolution, and you may introduce the ordinance declaring the results of the election so as not to be in jeopardy relative to the election code under which this election was called and so that the City will not have to go to the expense of a new election. Nothing taken, by the introduction of this ordinance, in my opinion, could be considered in variance to this stay order you have C. C. 8-22-60 Page Two because this is not completing the annexation in any way, shape or form, but is only to protect the election procedure. Mayor Heath: The second reading would have to be put off until . after September 21, in view of this stay order. Mr. Newell: I can give you a better opinion next time. I think for the purposes now you can introduce the ordinance and after I have discussed this with Mr. Sorenson we can then decide when this shall come up.for its second reading. This is to protect you for the money expended so far. However, possibly in view of the hearing date we would possibly not have a second reading until after that hearing. INTRODUCTION An Ordinance approving Mr. Newell presented: the annexation to the "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY City of West Covina OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA APPROVING THE (Annexation No. 165) ANNEXATION TO THE CITY OF WEST COVINA OF CERTAIN INHABITED TERRITORY DESIGNATED AS 'WEST COVINA EASTERLY ANNEXATION DISTRICT NO. 165' PURSUANT TO A SPECIAL ELECTION HELD IN SAID TERRITORY ON THE 9 TH DAY OF AUGUST, 1960.11' Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that reading of the body of the Ordinance be waived. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that the ordinance be introduced and given its first reading by title only. City Clerk Flotten; There will be a longer delay relative to the second reading because of this stay order? Mr. Newell: Yes. City Clerk Flotten: There is an incorporation meeting to come before the Board of Supervisors on August 25 on an area which includes this Annexation. Mr. Newell- You are still stayed by the Court and this would have to be taken off the calendar .... the Court is restraining you. Gity„Manager..„ Aiassa -. _,..,... .ad,,.reading?.... Mr. Newell: Five days. . CITY CLERK'S REPORTS ACCEPT STREET IMPROVE- MENTS Tract No. 16457 (Olson Lumber Company) APPROVED ACCEPT STREET IMPROVE- MENTS PROJECT NO. C-43 (.Cuda Construction Company) APPROVED LOCATION- Northeast corner of Fairgrove and .Sunset Avenues. Accept street and sanitary sewer improvements and authorize release of Glens Falls Insurance Company Performance Bond No. 78-43 87 in the amount of $147,170.00. LOCATION: _ West side of Glendora Avenue at Service Road entrance South of Dalewood Street C. C. 8-22-60 Page Three ACCEPT STREET IMPROVE- LOCATION: South side of Rowland Avenue, west MENTS PROJECT NO. C- of Homerest Avenue. 129 (Crowell & Larson Accept street improvements, subject to Notice Construction of Completion procedure. Company) APPROVED The City Clerk indicated the Inspectors Final Report and Notice of Completion had been received relative to the above items. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried that street improvements be accepted in Tract No. 16457, Project No. C-43 and Project No. C-129 in accordance with the Agenda. EXTEND AGREEMENT LOCATION: East side of Sunset Avenue, south TIME TRACT No. 24909 of Cameron Avenue. (Maurice Kandel) APPROVED Extend agreement time to install street improve- ments and tract monuments in Tract No. 24909 for a period of 6 months .....to January 9, 1961. EXTEND AGREEMENT LOCATION: South.of Puente Avenue, west of TIME TRACT NO. 20199 Lark Ellen Avenue. (Frank C. Sheldon) APPROVED Extend agreement time to install street improve- ments in Tract No. 20199 for a period of 9 months - to December 13, 1960. The City Clerk indicated that relative to the monument installation this would be subject to inspection by the County Engineering Department and the recommendation on both items was to permit the extensions of time. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that the extension of agreement:time relative to Tracts No. 24909 and 20199 be approved, in accordance with the Agenda, and subject to the recommendations of the staff. ACCEPT SEWER FACILITIES LOCATION: Evanwood Avenue and Glendale Street. TRACT NO. 25527 (R. A. Watt) Accept sewer facilities. APPROVED ACCEPT SEWER FACILITIES PROJECT NO. SS-10 (Chorale Construction Co. ), APPROVED LOCATION: Montezuma Way and Vine Avenue Accept sewer facilities and authorize release of Industrial Indemnity Company Bond No. VS - 019469 in the amount of $832.11 subject to Notice of Completion procedure. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Towner, and carried,. that sewer facilities in Tract No. 25527 and Project No. 38-10 be accepted, in accordance with the Agenda, and subject to the recommendations of the staff. S RESOLUTION NO, County Sanitary Improvement No. ADOPTED 1915 The City Clerk presented: Sewer "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF 2134-M WEST COVINA GRANTING CONSENT AND JURISDICTION TO THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES IN THE N/fT--r E K1 of COUNTY IMPROVEMENT QW NO, 2134-M, RIO DE ORO AND OTHER RIGHTS OF WAY.'! Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the Resolution. C. C 0 8-22-60 Page Four Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Barnes, that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows -- Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner,.Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent : None Said resolution was given No. 1915 APPROVE PLANS AND LOCATION: Corporation Yard on South Sunset SPECIFICATIONS OF Avenue PROJECT NO. SS-6a APPROVED Approve sanitary sewer plans and specifications and authorize the City Engineer to call for informal bids. City Manager Aiassa: This is for informal bids as the cost is only $1500.00. This is a continuation of the existing sewer put in last year and will serve the Washrack and other building(s)o This was approved when you adopted the budget, but you did not approve the specifications nor give authorization -to invite informal bids. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Snyder that the plans and specifications of Project No, SS-6a be approved and authorization given for the City Engineer to call for informal bids. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: Councilman.Brown Absent: None Councilman Brown stated that he was opposed to the development of the Corporation Yard and that was the only reason he was voting against this particular matter, SCHEDULED MATTERS HEARINGS ZONE VARIANCE NO, 316 and PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN NO. 13 (Rev. 6) (Von°s Property Company) DENIED LOCATION: 930 Soo Glendora Avenue between Service and Merced Avenues. Planning Commission, by Resolution No. 934 and 935 on July 20, 1960, denied a request to permit street use in Zone R-A and C-1 and denied adoption of precise plan of design. Appealed by Applicant on July 28, 1960. Maps were presented by the City Clerk and the resolution(s) of the Planning Commission were read. Mayor Heath opened the public hearing, stated that Council was operating under Ordinance No. 502 and that all those desiring to present testimony should rise and be sworn in by the City Clerk. C. C. 8-22-60 IN FAVOR Mr. D. Cunningham 3723 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles Page Five I am consultant for the applicant and with me this evening is Mr. Barney Sheridan who is a member of our Construction Department. I will open this by commenting on the six items which the Commission felt were the determining factors in turning this request down. Regarding the street opening. This was done unknowingly to Von°s who, perhaps, didn't follow as closely as they might have in this matter. We are willing to submit to an independent laboratory, core samples test of the roadbed, pay for it if it is ordered and have the reports delivered to the City. If it is substandard to City streets, the contractor shall repair the street and Von°s will see to it that it shall be done. If it is now substandard it will become completely standard, if approved. It was indicated this solely benefits Von°s property. However, we do not own the entire shopping center, only the property upon which the building sits and the frontage out to the street of Glendora. The balance is owned by several people and they, also, would be benefited. There is also some merit to shoppers being benefited by more adequate approaches to the area. There is a petition circulated today and yesterday, containing 56 signa- tures of owners of properties to the west, who feel this is true. Regarding the fact that this would establish a zone change by a variance, we would admit that if this is permitted it would be a commercial drive- way across residentially zoned property, but a variance would establish only one use of commercial zoning and not all uses of commercial zoning and we are asking for a variance because of only one commercial use and not for a change of zone to C-1, which would permit all rights of that zoning. It was indicated that it would jeopardize the subdivision of the balance of the block. However, I have looked at Block Study 45 and was assured. that it was not necessarily adopted and might be subject to change, and it did show a street as indicated on our plan. I heard from Mr. Sheridan that if it were done, Von°s would be blockaded by a 6-foot masonry -wall, and I am wondering if that is discriminatory by taking property with permitted access to that street? An alternate plan could--be-worked out if this street -were approved and the property is not so small over to California Street that it has to be done In only one way. The denial states this granting would be discriminatory and presents a special privilege. But I ask if every variance isn't a special privilege to a lesser or.greater degree? Some shopping centers have access to two or three different streets, and this has only one,and to grant this request would establish only two different ways to it, while many of your other shopping centers have three different ways in and out of them. Von°s first showed this driveway on a particular plan, #-A, in 1959 which was a landscaping and grading plan. Subsequently another plan was sub- mitted, Amendment No. 5, and it didn't show the driveway and wasn't con- cerned with a driveway, and it was indicated since the driveway was not shown, there was some skullduggery. However, in the building plans drawn in April of 1959, the driveway is shown on three of the 4 sheets stamped "received" by the City Building Department in May, 1959. This laid off the driveway right here and under it there is the statement, t9to construct street paving from northerly property line to California Street, see Sheet 4." The legal description says it is a new street. C. C. 8-22-60 Mr. Cunningham cunt°d. Page Six Sheet 2 is the contour and grading sheet which shows for grading, "see improvement plan for proposed driveway to be located." The fourth sheet of the set of plans states clearly that this is the specifications for pro- posed intersection of California Street and this private street. It is the street improvement plan. There is more on the plan and profile and the bond of this improvement plan relative to the private road shown shown. I do not know what was presented to the City in connection with the original change of zone, but insofar as Von°s is concerned, there was no intent to 9°bootleg" a street into this location. The last development was the receipt of a letter from the Planning Director drawing this matter to our attention. Mr. Sheridan-. Since we received the letter referred to by Mr. Cunningham, which was on March 17, we have taken a count of the actual checks cashed in the store and placed them on a map so that we knew which direction and locality the people shopping in our store might live. We find that 75% of all of our shoppers lie to the west. The success or failure of a store depends on the convenience, quality, and value the housewife experiences in doing her shopping. We feel that we can control the value of merchandise to a competitive spirit, and we feel we can control the quality as we are now our own buyers, but one thing that we do not have all. the control over is the convenience of our shopping center. Therefore, the convenience of any shopping center is -getting from home to the shopping center with the least trouble and without taking anything from remarks to be made regarding left-hand turns. I would introduce Mr. Walter Vondera who is a member of the Board of Directors and in industrial relations. Mr. Vondera-. When we move into a community, we want to among other things of running a business, have our managers participate in service clubs of the community and offer a convenience and service to the community. If you say this access road would be creating a hazard, we would want no part of it because regardless of its convenience, people are more important than that particular phase of it, but we should weigh the 3 or 4 left-hand turns relative to the convenience described. Mr. Cunningham-. We show the site at about the center of this map and have marked the particular location of Von°s building within the totally zoned area and outlined the streets that seem to be the feeder streets to the center from all directions, excluding the south. We are concerned, primarily, with access from the west side. You must go to the feeder street and make a right turn and come down Merced, with a left-hand turn onto Glendora Avenue and an additional left-hand turn from Glendora into the property. We know that if a certain percentage of the traffic could turn off from California and into that property, there would •be a better dispersal of traffic, and traffic around Vine, Merced, and Glendora would be helped. There are even some who believe a shopping center should have disbursement of traffic to four streets. Schools generally are bounded by sufficient streets to enable people to get away very quickly when bringing or picking up children relative to school time. Wescove School and this proposed road would intersect California Street, and there is opposition to that, but there is a possible advantage in that you are not putting a street directly into a single family residential area.... the school is a non-residential use. A street at that location would enable a turn into this property instead of going to Merced, and there are other schools in the City on busy traveled streets, and they do not experience any great detriment, so I do not think this would be C. C. 8-22®80 Page Seven Mr. Cunningham cont'd. creating additional traffic, but would help to more adequately disperse what is already there over this additional access road. Additional inter- sections may create hazards, but when a street becomes overloaded, then additional roads serve to disperse rather than compound a traffic situation. California is an access road from the Freeway. I.know there is a proposal to run Vincent Street through with a connection on Glendora, but right now people from the north are coming down California as it is an easy connection from the freeway, so that California is not as desirable for residential as it might be, and again I would remind you that we are not creating traffic but actually dispersing what is already there. We cannot get, with the existing street pattern, the kind of a draw from the west that we should have. We.are-not going.to admit we are at fault, but somebody dropped the ball and this street must be used or dug up. .Mr. F. Bowker I am the owner of the property directly south 18 LaGunita and the property which this half street runs Laguna'Beach and possibly I was partially guilty to have this exist, because I gave the easement to provide access to the parking area for their use, as well as the rest of the tenants. The shopping area and all others concerned are very unhappy over it being barricaded right now. But in addition to access, there had to be a place to drain water from the parking area, and that was one of the considerations of granting..... of draining the whole area.... and that drainage had to go out to the southwest of California, and there wasn't a more likely way of doing it than creating this half street. I have a prospective tenant for some of the property, but they feel this half street is necessary for their business, and if this is not permitted it is the feeling this will drive business down to the shopping area on Glendora in La Puente, and I do not think we want to do this but want to have healthy tenants here if we can. IN OPPOSITION Mr. M. F. Gaines I was at a meeting with Mr. Gerschler, your 914 W. Barbara previous Planning Director, before Von's was built, but this wasn't called a road but a drainage ditch to drain the shopping center onto California. It was simply referred to as a ditch for drainage. Since thsy have opened the road I use it, but I notice that as you are attempting to leave this road and enter California, the front end of the vehicle goes up about 2 feet while making a, right turn from this service road onto California, there is some loss of visibility, and you do not have complete control of the car. There is a very sharp rise from the service road up to California, and I presume this is necessary because it must sloap to drain water, so I do not think that attempting to use this road for the purposes indicated are very practical. • The road does stop right at a school where in September there will be children up to the sixth grade and who must cross California, and people will be leaving -this road and entering California, and since regrading California you can't say how much higher it is. I haven't been able to use the service road since they regraded California, -but once school is open if the rise is as bad as it is now, you won't see children when you make the right-hand turn without creating a hazard. Co C o 8-22-60 Mr, M. F. Gaines, contd. Page Eight I. have been a policeman in Los Angeles for 71 years and 3J years were devoted to traffic control, and this is what is called an "apple orchard" and violations are constantly issued, because people can't yield right-of-way.because they can't see traffic, and if they do see it,they have to take the chance because you have to turn so slowly. Being incomplete you do not know how much use it would have and whether it would be wide enough to handle the traffic it is supposed to. It is better to use Merced with its 4-way boulevard stop and make a2 left-hand turn and go to Glendora, although I will admit something is wrong so far as traffic control in order to get onto Glendora, but that could be remedied by a study of. Glendora and not a little side street in the middle of the field. Mrs. Fusann We have checked this road through out living 848 We Barbara room as the building is quite visible, and we can also view the road very well. We have observed commercial trucks, such as bread trucks and "coke" trucks, using the road which we feel forms a definite hazard onto California with the new school. There will be children from Kindergarten through the sixth grade which are young children and who can't always be expected to look out for everything and everybody. There are no sidewalks for the school on either side of California and the children have to walk in the street. There is also a very bad gutter,which in winter is full of water, and this would mean the children would have to walk even further into the street, and those cars coming off of the service road would have difficulty in watching for these children. We have checked very thoroughly to see if a crossing guard is necessary for that area, but there are so many requests for crossing guards as against what is available that we do not think we will be able to have one here, but just a crosswalk. We feel this is also a violation against property owners around there for their protection, and it doesn't help the K-1 property. It is handy to this use, but it is just as handy to go to Merced. Mrs. Mn Gaines In relation to the petition mentioned that 1914 W. Barbara has been circulated ..... I had a neighbor call us today, and it was a quick thing and the people who signed the petition like to use this route 000noi do t000,,,and it is closer and quicker. I send my daughter to the store, and she uses this area to enter, however, I do not think it is good, although it is convenient, but that doesn't make it a good thing, and you know the reasons for the Planning Commission's turning it down. It isn't a correct thing, even though more convenient, and it wasn't correct for them to put the street through, and it is up to the Council to protect the people even though it may be more convenient. Everybody that builds something without getting a permit goes through a hardship if they have to remove it. It is more convenient for lots of people not to get a permit if they want to build something on their property, but there are times it must be removed or done over because it wasn't appropriate in the first place and not done!the way it should have been done, Co Co 8-22-60 Mrs. M. Gaines cone°de Page Nine You know we are now petitioning against zoning previously done there, and there have been study plans made, although it was stated it does not necessarily indicate they will be there. You should consider the fact there is a possibility that what you have zoned may not be there either and also that this study plan that shows the streets wasn't one adopted by the Commission when they did adopt it. IN REBUTTAL Mr. Cunningham: If the road now existing in the locations from here to here and is to carry commercial traffic onto California, there is the possibility traffic might do this and arrive at the same locations. I wonder, here, if we aren't solely considering on this whether the balance of the block to the west could be reasonably sub- divided if the street remains, and whether it couldn't. There are plans that indicate it could be feasible even with leaving the road at its present location. If the City feels there is a deficiency at the hump or dip at California, we will have the condition in the variance requiring adequate plans to be submitted for reconstruction and bonds submitted. There are no sidewalks along California, but again, traffic from the west to this shopping center will go past that street anyway, and there will still be no sidewalks whether the street is there or not, and has no effect. The private street has sidewalks and any child wanting to walk through to the east can do so on a sidewalk. It was stated the present street is convenient, but not good, and 1 would simply ask, is it better or worse than the street proposed on the alternate study? There being no further testimony, the hearing was declared closed. Councilman Towner: It is a matter of convenience to the people it serves. However, there are problems of develop- ment and problems relative to the street as to its getting bigger as property develops. It should, possibly, be dedicated and brought to City standards. That street might be in the proper location and may be indicated by studies, but it is definitely not something that is solidified. The fact of putting in a street without proper permits doesn't create a hardship to give any corresponding benefits of getting a variance,'' but access to the store from Glendora may create a hardship. There are considerable points on both side of the story here. C� J C. C. 8-22-60 Page Ten Councilman Browne I agree with Councilman Towner in some respects. So far as property owners relative to the street, it has caused great confusion not only to Von°s, but to the City which had inspectors on it before it was discovered that it was not on the original plan approved. I think at the time the permits were taken out it was thought this was what had been approved, and I think the applicant was sincere in their thought this was what had been approved. This was a pricise plan approved by the Commission and was never before Council again. If we are going to have shopping areas such as this, we are going to have ready ingress and egress to the property, or it will be dormant and cost the City money too. So far as sidewalks by the school, this is required,and the property to the south, as it develops, will have sidewalks too. All block studies in the past show street patterns breaking this cluster up so there is flow through to Glendora. At one time Vine was supposed to come down and align approximately at Vine and California southeast of present Vine Avenue. The original alignment went through the school property. So far as the intersection of California and this private road, the elevations, I am sure, can be fixed to where there is no dip but improving the section of the street there. Apparently this is a 30- foot driveway.... Mr.. Dosh: About 24-feet. Councilman Brown: It should be developed to City standards but not accepted until such time as the rest of the area is developed. Councilman Barnes: In hearing the testimony I think, perhaps, the applicant has a good point relative to traffic flow into his property, but I do not think permission should be granted on the basis that a private street be put in without first checking all the ordinances and the precise plan that was passed. None of our street patterns call for the street going out directly behind Von°s, therefore, I think this is very bad. I think we are trying to stop heavy traffic on California. It is a residential street, and this will feed quite a bit of traffic onto California, and you do have a traffic problem with children at this school. However, I feel that we will have to come up with a street pattern that will not disturb most of the traffic flow and without depriving the market, and I think this is possible. I do not think we should use the street as a drainage ditch and if put in properly you won't have to use streets. I think all streets should be up to City standards -and all requirements met. I think there are points in favor and against, and it is difficult, without a street pattern study, to determine this. Co Co 8-22-60 Councilman Snyder: I think both sides of well presented, and it to decide. Page Eleven the argument have been is a difficult matter . However, I particularly do not like the way the street comes out directly in front of the school and so far as the feeder street, going in, in the not too distant future, will be a change at Merced, and signals to make left turns more easily and the feeder street to the north will be directed in such a way as to come down Glendora. There are strong arguments both ways, but I feel the bulk of the argument is not in favor of granting this. Mayor Heath: We have a petition argued by 50 people stating in.favor to the Iffect this street is a convenience. I believe we have to support out businesses in the City, and I certainly feel that anything we can do to get people into the business distridt is to our advantage. I feel Glendora is heavily traveled, and that there are a number of problem intersections, especially at Vine and Glendora, and any load taken from that area would be a good idea. So far as California, if the indications for the corners of Merced and California is standing, it -gives evidence of the fact California Avenue will be lowered when it is improved. If you will view the streets cutting from east to west, we have Merced to the south, and the next street cutting through is.Service Avenue, which is quite a way north, Therefore, I believe any traffic making a turn at Merced and Glendora, even though signalizbd, and making a left turn at Vine and Glendora, constitutes a traffic hazard. I would be in favor of leaving the street in and to be used Vwt�ulider the stipulations of our staff; one of them.being that easement be granted to the City, a proper test be.made to see the street is up to City standards, that the street be widened to its full width, and that it be dedicated to the City at the time of the development of tithe Councilman Snyder: However, discussion here in the past has been that as soon as the Vincent Avenue Extension went through, that California would return to its primary purpose, which is to service a residential area. There was also considerable discussion about a street from the Weizel property coming out on California, and that was turned down because it was wanted to avoid putting more traffic onto California. I think Glendora will be a primary street and see no reason to keep traffic from going onto Glendora. area I think we are being inconsistent here in that one moment we say we want to feed onto California, and less than two months ago we didn't want any more traffic feeding onto California. Mayor Heath: In my discussion on the Weizel case, I was in favor of an access to California. I still feel I would just as soon see some traffic taken off Glendora, especially where we have some corners and problem intersections that are there now. Co C. 8-22-60 Mayor Heath cone°de Page Twelve So far as trucks traveling on California, I believe California is . posted against trucks or heavy vehicles which means the only traffic down on California wouldn't be trucks, but the shoppers on the.way to the market and returning again. Councilman Towner: Normally,I start off with the basic premise that the Commissions or Boards of the City have studied these matters thoroughly, and there is sound reasoning behind their recommendations, and recommendations should be followed unless there is very strong reasons to the contrary. This is a close question , and I can see the conveniences of leaving the street in, and I can see it may possibly turn out that the eventual development of the property would call for a street there, but against that we have sound reasoning of the Commission, the only one that I feel may not be a sound reason is the one indicating it is solely for the benefit of Von°s property. In place of that you could insert that it is a traffic hazard, at its present rate anyway. Mayor Heath: I would agree and perhaps we should give this more thought before acting upon it. Councilman Snyder: From one standpoint, there is expense and money involved, and perhaps further consider- ation should be undertaken. Councilman Towner: If we study it, or send it back to the Commission, there should certainly be a complete traffic and circulation study. We have block studies, which,w how the westerly properties are going to d' go, I do not know how we can get a more definite study on it. Mayor Heath: We have studies here, one of which has been recommended, and both have access to California at the same identical spot where you have this street, and evidently it is a consistent point made by the Planning Department and Commission that there will be an access here eventually, Councilman Towner: Studies were made out of what was already existing there. Councilman Brown: Old block studies show access from both streets on this property. These block studies were only in relation to Weizel property. I doubt, too, that this street is sub -standard; the only real point is' where it connects to California. Their denial lies in the fact the street was in there, but I thought at the time the precise plan was originally passed that they had access from California, and at ground breaking it was stated they would have access and not only Von°s thought so, but other property owners there at that time thought that was approved. Councilman Barnes: The block study wasn't only in relation to Von°s and Weizel, but for all of the area; so it was my thinking that the block study .on the right was adopted, deleting the street out to California so only a portion of this street would go to California. C. C. 8-22-66 Page Thirteen Councilman Snyder: It seems to me that access from Merced is more sensible, and it doesn't seem logical to bring this street out directly in front of . school. Councilman Brown. The times of greatest use for a school and shopping area do not necessarily conflict. Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by Councilman Barnes, that Zone Variance No. 316 be denied. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes; Councilmen Towner, Barnes, Snyder.. Noes: Councilman Brown, Mayor Heath Absent : None Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Snyder, that Precise Plan of Design No. 13 (Rev. 6) by denied for the reason that the zone variance was denied. Motion passed toga r,6l1gc 11.�%-'r,l;f4ol°lows: Ayes: Councilmen Towner, Barnes, Snyder Noes: Councilman Brown and Mayor Heath Absent: None Mayor Heath called a recess. Council reconvened at 9:15 P.M. PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN FRANK B. BOWKER NO. 238 LOCATION., South side of Walnut Creek CONTINUED TO NEXT Parkway, between California and Vincent REGULAR MEETING Avenues. Appealed to Council on July 25, 1960; Letter from proponent requests delay..of decision pending completion of negotiations with County Flood Control for additional R/W. The City Clerkppeaen**dand read a communication from Mr. Frank B. Bowker, dated August 9, 1960, requesting this matter be continued pending completion of negotations. Mayor Heath opened the public hearing and stated all those desiring to present testimony should rise and be sworn in by the City Clerk. Mr. Frank Bowker, applicant, presented himself to Council and in- dicated that he would have no testimony to give, but would desire continuation as indicated in the communication. There was no further testimony presented. Discussion was held on the period of continuation, and Mr. Newell . indicated that since this was a published notice of hearing it would be better to continue it to .subsequent meetingirather than until negotiations are settled or for a specific number of days. Motion, by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that Precise Plan of Design No. 238 be continued to next regular meeting. 0 i C. C. 8-22-60 ZONE VARIANCE NO. 317 Safeway Stores, Inc. APPROVED IN THE ENTIRETY OF THE REQUEST FOR VARIANCE Page Fourteen LOCATION.- 1432 Puente Avenue, between Irwindale and Yaleton Avenues. Planning Commission, by Resolution No. 932 on July 6, 1960, approved request for identifying signs with certain conditions of modification. Appealed by the applicant on July 15, 1960. Hearing opened on August 8, 1960 and continued at the request of applicant. IN FAVOR Mr. Paul Egly I am the attorney for the applicant. The property was formerly zoned C-2, and a precise plan was presented for the development of the property relative to the construction of a Safeway Store, and at that time it was indicated there were some signs wanted,one of which is indicated in the photographs and is of the building shown from the corner of Eckerman Avenue and Irwindale looking directly west to the building. At that time, the sign was shown in its present position and was permitted to be erected as is. There is a photograph which shows a sign on the front and was shown on the precise plan, and a building permit was granted for that way. In addition, there were two detached signs which is small Safeway with "S" denoting parking entrance, and the second sign back of the.intersections of Puente and Irwindale, off the Mobile Station. In order to get the one detached sign out on Irwindale and then another sign which is indicated on the variance, which is identifying "S" on the front of building, looking north, a variance was needed'. The matter was presented before the Commission, and they stated that was fine and didn't care about signs on the north, but there should be no signs on the east side overlooking Irwindale, so permission was obtained for the identifying "S", but we were to take down signs on the side of the building ... on the east. We are asking for approval of what is up, and submit, the whole thing except for the "S" on the north. The main objection to the sign on the east was that houses across the street on Irwindale would be affected, but the sign which is on the east side, and that it not detached but against the building, as the picture shows would affect the homes but very little:::.:; if at all. We have come up with these pictures so that you can see that the Commission took account of the words rather than the actual facts as the pictures actually show how this effects R-1 around there. As this now stands, we are in violation of the sign ordinance, but they are up, and it was thought they were legal, and then it was found they weren't, and we had to go before the Commission, and they said we can have the '.'S" but not the signs you now have. We are concerned with keeping the sign on the east side because other than the detached sign south of Mobil Service Station, there is no other sign to be seen from Irwindale. The only people affected would be across Irwindale and Eckerman at Puente, but there are two service stations on the corners which draw more.light than that whole side of the Safeway building. CJ i C. C. 8-22-60 Page Fifteen City Manager For the record, it would appear the sign Aiassa: company made an error as well as our Planning Department. It was listed as 136 square feet on the Precise Plan, and the Building Permit shows 136 square feet, but when they designed andckected the sign it became nonconforming, but makes one wonder if the sign company read the permit or ordinance requirement. There being no further testimony, the hearing was.declared closed. Councilman Towner: As I would understand it, the only sign at issue is the one at the east elevation area, the one attached to the east side of the building. What is the difference between the sign on the building and what the ordinance provides? Mr. Josephs is 136 square and taken off Mayor Heath: City Manager Aiassa:. The ordinance states two signs, each 120 square feet and the variance is for 297 square feet of sign, plu's a 30 square foot sign in front. The sign on the building feet, and this could be reduced to 120 square feet the parapet. in with a good design ordinance. A variance Councilman Brown: From a look at the changes in the sign ordinance, does it look like this sign would comply with any revisions? I do not think so. You'll continue having problems of design that these buildings are going to have, but I think Commission and Council have control. Architect may come which doesn't conform completely to the sign could be ,justified. I wonder if anybody has seen this store? I think the sign is adequate, and I do not think it is detrimental to anybody. Mayor Heath: I would like to Aold this until the sign ordinance is revised to see if this doesn't come within the scope of it. Councilman Barnes: But in the meantime you wouldn't penalize them to take it down until.the.sign ordinance is revised, would you? Councilman Brown., It is violating the law, and you can't just say go ahead -and violate it. Councilman Towner:. The Planning Commission action was justified in the grenting:of the variance already given from the ordinance. From looking at the pictures, I see no benefit to the property owners. Thekuget more from the freestanding one at Irwindale than this one and so long as we have the ordinance we should stick to it unless there is substantial reason for departing from it. Councilman Brown: I..have.aiways felt it was too restrictive and you should give more advantage. G. C. 8-22-60 Page Sixteen Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried that Zone Variance No. 317 be granted in its entirety. • Councilman Towner voting "No." Councilman Towner: Suppose we do revise the sign ordinance, we will still be faced with the same type of problem that every sign that comes in will be by variance, and the difficulty is that you get yourself in a discriminatory situation in that it appears that the man who asks for the most gets the most, or the man who knows the right people, and that shouldn't happen. We should have definite lines drawn by ordinance and adhere to them. Mayor Heath: Speaking for myself in the time I have been on Council, I.can recall the trouble this ordinance has given us. When business comes in, it has the right to advertise and to give notification they are in business. For this 2J years, it has been a consistent indication that the sign ordinance isn't right, and revision was needed, and I hope that when it is revised there won't be A'ineed for variance, and if it is drawn up right, I think this will be the case. City Manager Aiassa: and more variations of ZONE CHANGE NO. 166 Edward L. LaBerge,Jr. HELD OVER TO NEXT REGULAR MEETING A sign ordinance is like a zoning ordinance and with these modernistic type building you are going to get more design and etc. LOCATION- East side of Azusa Avenue, between Edkerman Avenue and Danes Drive. REQUEST TO RECLASSIFY TO THE "HIGHEST AND BEST USED." Existing Zone - R-1. On August 11, 1960, City Council by motion referred the matter to the Planning Commission to "investigate for the possibility of R-P use with a Precise Plan.°" Review report of Planning Commission. Mayor Heath: Was the Commission aware of the fact that to make this R-3 would require certain setback from Azusa and Eckerman to a point where it would be only one-story? Councilman Towner: They were aware we raised this point at Council level, but they were not aware of what the setback would be and neither was L. It was mentioned it was a. "policy of Council" as Councilman Brown brought up, and I told them this, but so far as I know there is no legal setback requirement here. City Clerk Flotten: The report submitted relative to the Commission meeting of August l71ndicated they voted to reject Precise Plan No. 242 as submitted because of the inadequacy of parking spaces, and the only way it could be developed into R-P would be sub -standard. 0 C. Co 8-22-:60 Page Seventeen Councilman Brown: When this was held over, I believe it was the feeling of Council that they weren't willing to consider this zoning unless they had a plan in front of them. There was a plan in front of the Commission which was turned down, but there has been no appeal to the Council. We have no plan before use City Clerk Flotten< We now have a letter of appeal on this plan, Councilman Browns In that case, this should be held over pending the presentation of the plan to usa Mayor Heath: With this plan for •R-P or R-3? Councilman Towner: It was for R-P and was a plan previously submitted, and was now resubmitted, Mayor Heath: They denied this shouldn't be R-Pe Councilman Brown; No, it would seem it was on adequate parking facilities and good useability. Councilman Towner: They didn't like the plan for R-P for the reasons stated in the report, and they also were still of -..the opinion this should go to R-3 development. Mayor Heath: Are they aware of the necessary require- ments for R-3? If they are not aware of Councils previous policies on setbacks, I think they should be aware of it before evaluating the case. Councilman Towner: That may be true, but we are not bound by prior policy or prior City Councils, and the main problem is, can this be reasonably developed into R-P with a reasonable precise plan to provide protections to the homes there and at the same time get a usabld piece of property. I agree we should pass on the zoning after seeing the precise plan, as stated by Councilman Brown, which isn't in front of us. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that Zone Change No. 166 be held over until the meeting of September 12, 1960. PLANNING COMMISSION METES AND BOUNDS SUBDIVISION NO, 135-171 Mrs. Gertrude Milliken HELD OVER TO NEXT REGULAR MEETING LOCATION On the north side of Lark Hill Drive, southeast of Springmeadow Drive. 1.76 Acres - 2 Lots - Area District III Approval recommended by the Planning. Commission on August 3, 1960. Hearing opened August 8, 1960 and continued at the request of applicant. Co Co 8-22-60 Page Eighteen Mrs. Go Milliken, applicant, of 454 W. Palm Drive, Covina, requested that due to an infirTity she would request that her two sons, who were present at this meeting, should speak in her behalf. Mrs. E. Samuels I have a letter from the architectural 333 No. Citrus committee approving this lot split and West Covina the terms and conditions which this committee imposes already contributes $325.00 to the City to cover the cost of fire hydrant installation and engineering as share of fire protection, and that any power to these sites will be from existing poles or else must go underground so that no additional poles are installed in the tract. As you all know, since having subdivided this tract originally, I have had great interest in it and taken an active part in most of the things that have come up. I have served on the architectural committee and have no financial or personal interest in this application. I did not sell the lot so there are no commissions or fees involved, so I am speaking in the interest of the people in the area, as well as the applicant herself. I feel the condition of the Commission as regards the recommendations for curbs, gutters and street widening is very much a hardship case, and I am not criticizing the Commission in doing this, because it could only make its decision based on some City ordinance, and this area is in the City. It would be a hardship on the property owner both an esthetic standpoint and property standpoint in that this would be detrimental to the whole tracts There is a long expanse of frontage on this street bordering the Country Club to the east, and it goes on around the hill and will probably never have curbs and gutters on it, and the people in the tract feel they do not want curbs and gutters in the tract. One portion along the strip where this street touches Latk Hill Drive on the south would be at a dead-end at both ends. Another thing I would point out is that there was a lot split application before the Commission of Neil Campbell, and the Commission made the same recommendation. However, I understand there was no appeal and if not, it was because his business is conducting tours, and he left immediately after that hearing and will only be back just before school starts. Mrs. Samuels designated on the map the various lot splits made in the area. What you come up with is an isolated strip of curb and gutter which is an eyesore to look at in hillside and country type property which the people in there like. I ask, simply from appearance of the tract esthetically and the welfare of those properties in there that we do not have two spots of curbs and gutters which serve no purpose. Mr. 0> Rebholtz Pond Engineering 2702 Rowland Covina only from frontage on the One thing;I would like to point out is that this frontage on this lot has no value to applicant except as an access standpoint, the same as other lots in the tract, which come in from this road and can't have access from Lark Hill Drive but cul-de-sac. C. Co 8-22-60 Mr, 0. Rebholtz cunt°d, Page Nineteen On this lot, the road is off center from the south and 5-feet of pavement projects northerly from center line so that part of the road is on a steep slope into the property which is considerable and which is the reason why access was denied here, and it wasn't wanted off this roads It has been estimated this would cost 6000 to 8000 dollars to fix this road, it is so steep, and it would have to be "benched." The unit prices for these lot splits would be large throughout the tract, because of the small nature of the job and there would have to be a large unit price. I would point out from the esthetic point of view, that I do not believe that in a 100 years these properties would be improved with these lot splits. Some can't be split so there would be no improvements. I know of no one who has plans to split lots in the near future, through inquiry. You would have an overlapping condition that would be costly and dangerous in some spots. New curbs joining to old and each curb successfully newer as it came in over who knows how many years. If the City objects to the present paving which it says is a maintenance cost which is excessive, I would fail to see where an occasional widening cf_.thtsroad would lessen the maintenance cost.. Mr. A. Milliken I would point out that the applicant 776 W. Chester Rd. is not one who is trying to shirk her West Covina duties and has always stepped in to pay her share of the load in worthwhile community projects which is witnessed by her joining the sewer project started some years ago and now a part of the City sewer system. The City asked for a 20-foot driveway off Springmeadow and 15-foot had been planned, but the applicant thinks the request is valid and sound. Also requested was additional fire protection, which hadn't been pointed out to the applicant, but it is felt this, too is fair and sound. -However, the excessive cost of curbs and gutters seem a little unreasonable, and it is felt that Council should do the fair and right think in the matter, Mrs. Samuels: It seems there is an important matter of cost here, and I have seen many times, people come in with requests relative to something they want to do, because it means a lot of money to them. This lot was sold 14 years ago, and anyone that can hold a lot for 14 years and make money on it raises a question:.in my mind....I don't know how. When it was bought, there was a plan to build, but it didn't work out, so this is no money making scheme but a practical approach to adding one more lovely and highly desirable home in West Covina. Elizabeth Elliott; I am the real estate broker and have witnessed the development in that area. I think it has added a great deal of taxable revenue to the City, and if there is anything we can do to further that type of development, it will be to everyone's mutual benefit. When all the lots are split that can be, and all are built, the City will benefit, and if it then seems reasonable to improve the roads and add street lights, you will have an equitable build-up area to assist in that project. C. C. 8-22-60 Page twenty Mr. J. Milliken We have a deposit on this lot, and we 636 So. Barranca think it is a nice section'of country here and intend to build a home in this 19 area and especially on this lot. There are 50 lots in the subdivision, with 8 lots split, but with apparently no requirements on them of this nature. The applicant has expressed her willingness to do any and everything which is recommended, such as widening access road, water hydrant, anything to contribute to the general welfare of the area, but the people 1,.have talked to feel the strip of curb up here instead of putting something you would like to have there would be an eyesore. This curb and gutter would be on the outside of the road and wouldn't even carry water because of the grade of the road. At any time anyone wants curbs and gutters on all of it, we would be perfectly willing but for this one small piece it would be very negligible in doing anybody any good and would be rather on the reverse side. Mr. J. Milliken There was mention at the Commission Meet- 454 Palm Drive ing of a natural spring on the property, Covina but this has nothing to do with the size of the lot, and we will comply with the stipulation relative to this spring. None of the neighbors are in opposition to the lot split, and if we are required to place curbs and gutters here, we will be forced to withdraw the application and sell it as one lot. There being no further testimony, the hearing was declared closed. Councilman Towner: There seems to be a special problem here. Normally we require improvements to be put in, and we are catching up with them in other such areas of the City, but here you have obvious difficulties of a hillside situation, and property owners wouldn't share proportionately in the benefits. Maybe some consideration might be in order on this one. Councilman Barnes: It is very unfortunate that this curb and gutter has to be so long due to the shape of the lot, but I feel we should conform to the curbs and gutters in areas of this type. With our street crews having to shape up streets which are constantly disintegrating along the sides, we should continue to comply with curbs and gutters. However, it does look as if there is a hardship here, although I do not know how to solve it, because of this little area out here that seems to be of no use to anyone .... but I do not know the solution. Councilman Snyder; It is my impression that this whole tract is going to have to be curbed and guttered eventually, and there may be some inequities, but if it were done under the 1911 Act this lot, because of the size, will still have to pay more than a lot that has a less bit of frontage and whether we require it now or do it under the'::1911 Act, I am in favor of seeing it done now. Mayor Heath.- There is a problem and the entire area up there is a problem. I have been led to believe some want improvements and others do not, and that some would go for the 1911 Act and some wouldn't. This is enough of a problem to hold it over and a tour be made of it by members of Council and then perhaps a decision can be reached. C. C. 8-22-60 Page Twenty -One Councilman Towner: Personally, I have been over this many, many times, and I am quite familiar with it. You have a breaking down of pavement at the edges of it, and it is a maintenance problem that shouldn't be thrown on the general taxpayer the way it is, but maybe there is something more equitable to the property owners in splitting lots. You have this owner putting in frontage, whereas probably others won't be putting it in for many years, and this property owner is not paying an equitable share that she might be if they all put this in as a unit. If it is an alternative, perhaps we should consider that. Councilman Brown: I can't see 320-feet developed by one party at this particular spot and to widen it would create a worse traffic hazard than is already up there and at this particular spot the drainage slopes back to back. So far as the 1911 Act, it doesn't have to be from frontage, but on benefit received. Councilman Snyder: Would you say the people of the City should pay for the 320-feet? Councilman Brown: Not on a 1911 Act. Mayor Heath: There is a problem in this area and not just this one lot. The Council should review the area up there and as a total parcel, with lots in mind, and possibly use the 1911 Act in that area to put in streets, etc. Councilman Snyder: Who is going to pay for this little crescent moon area here? Mayor Heath: It would be the same as the sewer district where the benefits are pro- rated. The property at the other end h" 43-feet. Councilman Towner: The 1911 Act would give equal share of the burden to go along with the equal share of benefit. To protect the general taxpayer, we must put improvements here. Councilman Snyder: The problem is caused by the way.the lots are laid out, and I do not think the entire people in the City should share the burden of maintenance here. Councilman Barnes: I do not feel this is fair to ask this in some places and not in others, but perhaps as suggested, it could be studied and some thought given to the 1911 Act. Councilman Brown: It isn't only curbs and gutters, but that this is hillside and isn't level, and that must be taken into consideration. C. C. 8-22-60 Councilman Barnes: spot, and maybe it might Page Twenty -Two I agree, but we still have all of Lark Hill to some day bring to standard, and we may have this situation in one be worse than other sports. Mayor Heath: I feel we must set a policy to curbs and gutters as lots are split. You are going to have expense to put in improve- ments on certain lots, and the only thing reasonable might be the 1911 Act, but we should find out if it is wanted and put in to share benefits. Councilman Snyder: I do not see how you are penalizing these people or being unreasonable. They knew this lot shape and knew that eventually this would have to have curbs and gutters. Councilman Brown: We didn't require curbs and gutters until a few years ago, and people didn't know this when they bought it. Mayor Heath When -there is a lot split, we then are permitted to make an improvement requirement, but after that lot split is done, we do not have that property so in a lot split, we like to be certain these things are to be done. Basically, if we do not get it now we may never get it. Councilman Brown: This is the third lot split in three months in this area. One lot split required curbs and gutters, and we heard the man is on tour and the other is on flat ground. Councilman Barnes: That is a private road. There were other lot splits in the City, and we not only required curbs and gutters, but also required them for existing property. Councilman Towner: What we are faced with here is that the City does want improvements here in some way or other, because it is out of the taxpayers pocket for the benefit of a few; yet this possibly penalizes a particular property owner as against.others in the area. Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that Metes and Bounds Subdivision No. 135-171 be held over until next regular meeting,for study. REPORT ON SAN Chairman Jackson of the Planning BERNARDINO AVENUE Commission stated that the resolution ZONING of the Commission is ready to present, maps are ready to present, and members of the Commission are present to answer;;any questions. 1� C. Co 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Three The motion of the Commission was that the Planning Commission had conducted an over-all zone study, and it is their report that it is the consensus of opinion that this area be zoned for Industrial Park type development for the reasons stated, and that if Council concurs, a • directive should be given to initiate studies relative to this type of use. Mr. Joseph presented maps, with overlay, and indicated all the study was based on the various discussions and the meetings with the City of Covina and the Regional Planning Commission, as indicated in the prepared report. Mayor Heath stated, after it was indicated that the area is suggested for entire M zoning, as well as the surrounding area of Covina and other areas, that this was fine, but what if the electronic businesses do not do well and would not remain there nor a demand be made for such use, there would be a request possibly for heavier manufacturing uses, metal shops, etc., and there should possibly be some buffering against such uses because of the close proximity of the hospital. Mr. Jackson indicated this was an industrial park type development, and there would be considerable restrictions as to setbacks, landscaping, and type of use to go in there, and that electronics would only be but one possible use that would not be obnoxious or noisy and could be made compatible to the hospital use and not detrimental to it.. Councilman Snyder indicated that there is a hospital in the City very close to the freeway which is a worse detriment to such use than any metal shop could be. Mayor Heath stated that he still felt -that any possibility of any heavy industrial use next to a hospital is not good. Mr. Jackson stated that even welding can be held down from noise. Councilman Brown indicated that the talk was about zoning this industrial, but he was wondering why other industrial in the area isn't developing. Mr. Jackson stated that there are some 23 property owners involved, and the way it has developed it couldn't be expected to have any concern invest substantial monies, and that those who are acquainted with the industrial and manufacturing companies of higher types know they are very much aware of the types of neighbors they will have and areas they are in. Mr. Jackson indicated there were no other places in the City really suitable for a higher type industrial development, and that here is a chance to have a successful industrial development and to do a good job. However, Councilman Brown was of the opinion that restrictions are too heavy to get any such good development.' Councilman Towner indicated the I-P.zone was to get good restrictions to attract a higher manufacturing use, and it isn't just an alternative between electronics and heavy industrial use. Mayor Heath questioned as to whether there was access to this with trucks, and Mr. Jackson indicated there is a master plan for the future so far as Badillo is concerned, and the M.T.A. is giving consideration here and that this isn't necessarily talking about today or next month, but something in the future. t C.C. 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Four Councilman Snyder stated he felt this study and report should be commended, and it was what he had in mind for a long range development of this property. However, Councilman Brown stated that he would agree, but before there was an application filed on this property, but Council- man Snyder stated that, "it was never too late to be saved." Councilman Barnes stated that he had hoped that no manufacturing would go south of San Bernardino Road, and there are evidently 13 years before the present use of buildings there would be done away with. This area probably couldn't be developed in this way because you are getting into the residential part of the City. Mr. Jackson stated he would agree, but Badillo is 100-feet wide and the R-1 backs up to the south. There is no other place in the City where you have that really adequate type of buffering from another use. Mr. Jackson also indicated that this was also the recommendation of the City°s Chamber of Commerce and as had been pointed out by them,'we have to make the climate in the City conducive to industrial development which hasn't been done in the past. Mayor Heath questioned, "why hasn't it developed?". You do not have access to that area except through Badillo which eventually may be done, but you haveanother 15 orl3 years of commercial use adjacent to this property which is commercial and will stay commercial. Councilman Barnes was of the opinion that it is a burden to hold onto property if zoning doesn't take, and Mr. Jackson agreed, but stated that there is never any guarantee that any property zoning is going to take. Councilman Snyder indicated that if M zoning isn't seriously considered here, the City.is going to be denied something that is really needed, and the reason it can't be sold is that the City never had actually M zoning for a client before. Councilman Towner indicated that he felt the question was whether we needed more commercial and apartment house zoning here, or if it is suitable for the recommended use, and that it was well known that the City needed no further commercial zoning, but that it did need manufacturing and that here is practically one ownership on a piece of property that lends itself to such a use, and that the need for more tax revenue was the endorsement of the Planning Commission, Chamber of Commerce and other study groups, and they also felt this was the best way to zone it. It was his opinion the reason for Council dragging its feet here, when it knew the need for such use, was that Mr. Pick has an application on here for commercial zoning. Mayor Heath stated that he did not feel this had.any basis at all, but that there was a hpital here and the discussion was becoming quite strained as to whether you go over another 300-feet, and he did not feel to take this 300-feet out of that industrial park would ruin and jeopardize such a proposed use here. Mr. Jackson stated it would be jeopardized by the fact that the size of it would be cut and asked if there had been any justification made to have or grant additional commercial. He felt there was none because anything read, seen or heard is that the City has enough commercial • zones already and is over -zoned for such use. Mayor Heath stated that Mr. Bennett had made his report a few years ago that there was too much commercial, but the Commission saw fit to give commercial on Pacific Avenue right in back of his facts. However, was indicated this had been a potential and Councilman Snyder stated that he felt this should not be discussed on past actions but what is "now." C. Co 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Five Councilman Barnes stated that at the time Covina made this other portion M industrial -park type development and zoned it C-1 on the west, did they (Covina) come to this City and ask ifthat was good zoning, or ask West Covina°s opinion in any wayo It was his feeling that if we were doing this because of someone elsebinfluence, we aren't using good judgment in coming south of San Bernardino Road. However, Mr. Jackson indicated that the Commission had discussed with them (Covina) previously relative to manufacturing in that area and. had a meeting with them initiated at their request and that a good working relationship had now been established here which did not even exist at that time when the previous zoning was made and what the City is always looking for is the highest and best use and is compatible and doesn't cause a hardship. Mayor Heath stated that the Commission had voted this be R-3 all the way to the street, and it was una4mous with them, and then there was a slight change made for 120-feet 6f commercial and asked if the interpretation now rather than 120®feet of commercial that this all go to manufacturing in there. Mr. Jackson replied "definitely.". Mayor Heath questioned as to whether the Commission was still in agreement with R-3 in there, and Mr. Jackson indicated, "not at this time as the consensus was, after making a study, no recommendation of R-3 Councilman Towner indicated that it is knocn what is needed, and what is best for the City, and that this is even a higher use for property owners, and he didn't understand how a particular individual could stand in the way of good judgment for the City, and that anyone that speculates takes his chances. Councilman Barnes stated he did not feel this was true, but he did feel this is as important as the South Hills area, and that we should protect the residences. Councilman Brown stated that the -application was before the City for 5 months, that there were committments on the part of the applicant and that he did not think it was fair to reverse ourselves. Councilman Towner asked if it was considered that these reasons were more important than a Commission study, and Councilman Brown stated the study is good, but it is late and that with out M-1 it is impossible to get anyone to build on it and that if M-1 zone had come along with this, all right, but now you put this on there, revise the M zoning and cause delay after the application has been in so long a time. Councilman Towner stated that he felt the delay that was bothering was the delay to Pick and Councilman Brown requested that personalities be left out of it, but Councilman Towner stated that Councilman Brown had brought that factor into it. Councilman Snyder felt that Pick should be appraised of this zoning and be given the opportunity to state objections or approval, but that . if he wasn't satisfied with it, there should still be strong consideration about throwing away M zoning that the City needs. Mayor Heath indicated there should be a comprise here to permit the R-3 and let the rest go manufacturing, and he still felt the R-3 would act as a good buffer to the hospital use. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Snyder, and carried, that the Planning Commission be directed to draft recommendations for an Industrial -Park Zoning Ordinance. 0 C o C e 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Six Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown and carried, that the City Council commends the Planning Department, Planning Commission and the Chamber of Commerce, with the City of Covina, and the County of Los Angeles for their coordinated study of San Bernardino Road, and that their report be received and filed. COUNTY AMENDMENT NO, 427 This is a Regional Planning Commission Amendment of the Plan of .Streets and Highways, and it was the recommendation of the Planning Commission of this City to endorse it. No objections were forthcoming from Councils RECREATION AND PARKS RESOLUTION NO. 1916 Acquisition of Municipal Improvements ADOPTED The City Clerk presented: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE. CITY OF:WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, DETERMINING THAT THE PUBLIC INTEREST AND NECESSITY DEMAND THE ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN MUNICIPAL IMPROVEMENTS AND MAKING FINDINGS RELATING THEREgU. " Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Towner that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent : None Said resolution was given No., 1916. INTRODUCTION The City Clerk presented: . An Ordinance for "An ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE notice of special CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA ORDERING, election CALLING, PROVIDING FOR AND GIVING NOTICE OF A SPECIAL'ELECTION.TO BE HELD.IN THE CITY OF WEST-COVINA ON THE 8TH DAY OF NOVEMBER, 1960 FOR THE PURPOSE OF SUBMITTING TO THIS QUALIFIED VOTERS. OF SAID CITY A PROPOSITION TO INCUR BONDED INDEBTEDNESS BY SAID CITY FOR CERTAIN MUNICIPAL IMPROVE- MENTS AND CONSOLIDATING SAID ELECTION WITH .STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON SAID DATE," Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that further reading of the body of the ordinance be waived. Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by Councilman Towner,.and carried, that the ordinance be introduced and given its first reading, C.C., 8-22-60 RESOLUTION NO. 1917 Consolidation of bond election with general . election ADOPTED Page Twenty -Seven The City Clerk presented: "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO CONSOLIDATE THE CITY OF WEST COVINA BOND ELECTION TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 8, 1960.WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME DATE. Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows:. Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absents. None Said resolution was given No. 1917. RESOLUTION NO. 1918 The City Clerk presented: Authorization to file "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE a City measure CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA AUTHORIZING ADOPTED CERTAIN OF ITS MEMBERS TO FILE A WRITTEN ARGUMENT FOR A CITY MEASURE." Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner,Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Said resolution was given No. 1918. (Authorization given to Mayor and Mayor Pro-tem and Council representa- tive to the Recreation and Parks Commission to write the argument for the measure.(., GENERAL MATTERS ORAL None WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS From Mr. Frank G. Bonelli thanking the City for their resolution presented to him at the recent dinner. CITY MANAGERS REPORTS GRAND AVENUE..AGREEMENT City Manager outlined contract proxisions • F.A..S. PROJECT 860A and submitted summary copies to City Council AUTHORIZATION TO EXECUTE Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement. C. C. 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Eight PARTICIPATION OF SCHOOL City Manager Aiassa stated this matter has DISTRICT RELATIVE TO been reviewed and written communications STREET LIGHTS IN THEIR had been received showing the attitude of AREAS the schools relative to this problem. A HELD OVER summary of the report had been prepared and presented tortherCity bringing this matter up -to -dace on all the items discussed in this matter, which is a concise statement indicating that the schools do not want to financially participate in the lighting program. It was indicated to them there would be no action on their request, but that they would be notified that this action would be held over to the meeting of September 12th so that a representative can appear from the districts to present their case. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Towner, and carried, that this matter be held over to the next regular meeting and the proper parties notified so as to be present at that time to present their case. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by AGREEMENT Councilman Towner that the Mayor and City AUTHORIZATION TO Clerk be authorized to sign the Chamber EXECUTE of Commerce Agreement for the year 1960-1961, starting July 1, 1960 and ending July 1, 1961. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Noes: None Absent: None P.U.C. BUS RATE CHANGES ITEM TABLED PERSONNEL Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath HeaVirig date set for August 24, 1960 at 10 A. M. FIRE DEPARTMENT Recommendation for Captain Guerin to servo3a another year with the City as Fire Prevention Officer, Required physical examination was done with the report of Captain Guerin being in excellent physical condition. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that Captain Guerin be permitted to serve another year with the City of West Covina as Fire Prevention Officer. PERSONNEL* SECRETARY ILEAVE OF ABSENCE FOR 60.DAYS Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that the recommendation of the City Manager for a 60 day leave of absence for the Personnel Secretary be approved. 0 C. C. 8-22-60 Page Twenty -Nine CARPOOL Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that the City Manager be authorized to proceed with this study to contact various automobile} dealers and make recommendations to Council on possible three proposals on use of standard Fords and Chevrolets, plus Valient, Falcon, and Corvair. RESOLUTION NO. 1919 The City Manager presented: Council Expenses "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF ADOPTED THE CITY OF WEST COVINA`FINDING THAT MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL INCUR CERTAIN MONTHLY EXPENSE BY THEIR SAID POSITION AND METHOD OF THEIR REIMBURSE--- MENTS, " . -- Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown that said resolution be adopted and be effective August 1, 1960. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilman Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Said resolution was given No. 1919. GLENDORA BRIDGE CONTRACT Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by WITH THE CALIFORNIA.STATE Councilman Towner, and carried that this DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS matter be directed to be submitted to the City Attorney to prepare a resolution for the next regular meeting and to review the contract. TREASURERS REPORT Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by July, 1960 Councilman Snyder, and carried, that the Treasurers Report for July, 1960 be accepted and filed for the record. CONTRACT WITH City Manager reported that a copy of the O'MELVENIY AND MEYER contract was given to the City Council, AUTHORIZATION and action would be necessary before we TO EXECUTE undertake Bond Issues. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Towner that authorization be given to the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the contract. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilman Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None C. C. 8-22-60 Page Thirty PROJECT NO. 103 Negotiations with the La Puente Water DIRECTIVE TO Company relative to the relocating and PROCEED installing of new irrigation pipe line as • part of Sunset (Avenue.) improvements. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Towner, and carried, that the City Manager be authorized to proceed with the necessary negotiations. CLAIM OF DR. L. MOSER, Mom. Request for a refund because it was RELATIVE TO PRECISE PLAN found a variancewasn°t necessary. NO. 234 Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown, and carried, that this claim of Dr. L.:Moser ....Precise Plan No. 234.... be referred to the Planning Commission instructing them to make finding and recommendation. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE Registration fee is $35.00, attendance for JUNIOR TRAFFIC ENGINEER four days, with mileage to be paid amounting TO ATTEND TRAINING SCHOOL. to approximately $28.00 which would give a AT U.C.L.A. total of about $63.00. APPROVED Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown that the Junior Traffic Engineer, Weston Pringle, be authorized to the attend the Traffic Training School Program at U.C.L.A. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilman Brown,'Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None ADVERTISEMENT ON This was for advertisement on the back JACKETS OF MUSTANG of the jackets worn indicating City of PONY LEAGUE PLAYERS West Coxina; California. AT WASHINGTON, PA. .Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, that an expenditure up to $300.00 be allowed relative to the advertising of the City through the Pony League Team that is representing us at Washington, Pennsylvania. Motion -passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None EMPLOYEES HEALTH INSURANCE To be discussed in personnel study session. PROPOSED SIGN ORDINANCE Couneili.ito review the existing and proposed AMENDMENT. amendments with comments, and they will be referred directly to Planning Department for the Planning Commission. U.S. CONFERENCE OF Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by MAYORS OF MUNICIPAL Councilman Towner and carried that the BONDS oN Mayor and City Manager ft prepare letters to Congressmen to remove this threat to the bond market by requesting certain correction. C. C. 8-22-60 Page Thirty -One ADMINISTRATION REVIEW Report submitted. BOARD Held for study. 40 VENDING MACHINES Report submitted. Held for study. FIFTY - TRIPLE -A SAFETY Report made and advise that the City will STICKERS participate. CITY OF WEST COVINA To.-.­beispread in full upon the Minutes ASSESSED VALUATION FOR 1960-61 Tax District Tax District #1 #2 Total Secured: Land 19,645,140.00 237,920.00 19$883,060.00 Improvements 51,697,660.00 18,100.00 51,715,760.00 Personal Property 2,263,570.00 2,450.00 2,266,020.00 Exemptions (7,523,710.00) -0- (7,523,710.00) Total Secured 66,082,660.00 258,470.00 _66,341,130.00- Public Utilities 3,381,810.00 4,630.00 3,386,440.00 Unsecured: Improvements 1,306,840.00 -0- 1,306,840.00 Personal Property z­5,326,650.00 960.00 5,327,610.00 Exemptions ( 13,350.00) -0- (13,350.00) Total Unsecured -6p6208140000 960.00 6,621,100.00 Total Assessed Valuation 76,084,610.00 264,060.00 76,348,670.00 WALNUT CREEIK PARKWAY Report made and placed on file. PROJECT M.T.A. REPORT To be acknowledged with expression of interest in continuing to be informed. Motion by Councilman Snyder, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that the Planning Commission study the route and make comments relative to it. REPRESENTATIVE FROM CITY Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by AT HEARING OF AUGUST 25, 1960 Councilman Barnes, and carried, that RELATIVE TO INCORPORATION the Mayor appear at this hearing and be OF COVINA HIGHLANDS . authorized to speak on behalf of the City. • TAt "TORNEY ORDINANCE.NO. AMENDING CODE AFFECTING REGULATIONS IN.R-P ZONES PERTAINING TOINIGHT OF BUILDINGS (PROPOSED AMENDMENT NO. 34) (Introduction) I j ORDINANCE NO. MODIFYING CERTAIN REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO HEIGHT LIMITATION OF BUILDINGS IN R-A and R-3 ZONE. (PROPOSED AMEND. NO. 40) (Introduction) Above items deleted from Agenda. C,d. C . 8-22-60 Page Thirty -Two ORDINANCE NO. 674 The City Clerk Presented: SECOND READING "AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE An ordinance rezoning CITY OF WEST COVINA REZONING CERTAIN certain premises PREMISES (Pick) ADOPTED A Motion by Councilman Brown to adopt failed for lack of second. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Snyder that the ordinance be held over until next regular meeting. Mayor Heath: Why? Councilman Towner: To get the Planning. Commission to do a preliminary study on I-P zoning and to give Pick an opportunity to see the studies made, and if he desires to express his ideas, we can get the benefit of that too. Mayor Heath: If he goes along, doesn't he have to file all over again? Councilman Brown: Yes Motion failed on roll call as follows.:. Ayes: Councilmen Towner, Snyder Noes: Councilmen Brown, Barnes, Mayor Heath Absent: None Councilman Towner: I think the over-riding concern of members of Council is Pick's time delay rather than the best use of the property. Mayor Heath: Not necessarily, as pointed out it needs a buffer between the hospital and manufacturing. Councilman Snyder: You don't know that Pick wouldn't be more happy with all M zoning. Councilman Brown: If he.wants it he can change the zoning and refile. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes that further reading of the body of the ordinance be waived. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Barnes, Mayor Heath Noes: Councilmen Towner, Snyder Absents None Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes that the ordinance be given its second and final reading and adopted. Motion passed on full call as follows.-. Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Barnes, Mayor Heath Noes: Councilmen Towner, Snyder Absent: None Said ordinance was given No. 674. 0 C. C. 8-22-60 Page Thirty -Three RESOLUTION NO. 1920 The City Clerk presented: Fixing rates of taxes "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE and levying taxes for CITY OF WEST COVINA FIXING THE RATES OF 1960 TAXES AND LEVYING TAXES FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ADOPTED BEGINNING JULY 1, 1960." 1 Mayor Heath: Hearing no°objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Snyder that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roil call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Said resolution was given No. 1920. RESOLUTION NO. 1921 The City Clerk presented:. Fixing the amount of "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE money necessary to CITY OF WEST COVINA FIXING THE AMOUNT OF be raised by taxation MONEY NECESSARY TO BE RAISED BY TAXATION for 1960. FOR THE CURRENT FISCAL YEAR BEGINNING "'J�� AIIQPTED) July 1, 1960." Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Barnes, seconded by Councilman Brown that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Said resolution was given No. 1921. RESOLUTION NO. 1922 The City Clerk presented: Denying unclassified "A RESOLUTION: OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF. THE use permit and precise CITY OF WEST COVINA DENYING A REQUEST FOR Plan AN UNCLASSIFIED USE PERMIT AND. DENYING A ADOPTED PRECISE PLAN." (Frank J. Ruppert). Mayor Heath: Hearing no objections, we will waive further reading of the body of the resolution. Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Brown that said resolution be adopted. Motion passed on roll call as follows. - Ayes; Councilmen Brown, Towner, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Councilman Barnes abstaining from the vote. Said resolution was given No. 1922. COMMENTS OF MRS. VAN DAME We need a noiseless switch on this air conditioning. How come sidewalks now aren't mandatory in front of schools? Council indicated they were. Why did you agree to have the Turkey Bar-B-Que at Merced instead of Cortez Park? C. C. 8-22-60 Page Thirty -Four Councilman Browne. We didn't have it, the Teen -Kan -Teen gave it, and it was raising money so it shouldn't be in a City park. Mrs. Van Dame: Why was liquor sold at the Bar-B-Que?. Councilman Brown: It is private property in a C-1 zone and to do so was legal. Mrs. Van Dame: Regardless, I do not think it should have been done, and I feel you are all responsible and should have prohibited it, as well as the City Manager and Police Department, especially with so many young people. Councilman Brown: This wasn't any activity for youth, it was older people and liquor wasn't for any young people. Mrs. Van Dame: It still should not have been permitted. DEMANDS APPROVED: Motion by Councilman Towner, seconded by Councilman Snyder, that Demands in the amound of $317,531.29 as shown on Demand Sheets B-66, C-217 through C-219, be approved. This to include fund transfers in the amount of $125,797.73 and funds to include time deposits in the amount of $140,000.00. Motion passed on roll call as follows: Ayes: Councilmen Brown, Towner, Barnes, Snyder, Mayor Heath Noes: None Absent: None Motion by Councilman Brown, seconded by Councilman Barnes, and carried, that the meeting be adjourned at 12t35 A.M. to Monday, August 29, 1960 at 7:30 P.M. APPROVED p Mayor ATTEST: *' City Clerk I