05-05-2020 - AGENDA ITEM 09 CONSIDERATION OF RENEWAL OF LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 6 — ORDERING OF ENGINEER'S REPORT AND PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF THE ENGINEER'S REPORTAGENDA ITEM NO.9
Xft
AGENDA STAFF REPORT
City of West Covina I Office of the City Manager
DATE: May 5, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: David Carmany
City Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF RENEWAL OF LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 6 —
ORDERING OF ENGINEER'S REPORT AND PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF THE
ENGINEER'S REPORT
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1. Adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO.2020-29 — A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND FILING OF A REPORT
REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2020-21 ASSESSMENT TO BE LEVIED IN CONNECTION WITH
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 6
2. Following adoption of Resolution No. 2020-29, adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO.2020-30 — A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
COVINA, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY APPROVING THE ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 6, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND
COLLECT ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020-21 AND SETTING A
PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH ASSESSMENTS
BACKGROUND:
The Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (California Streets and Highways Code section 22500 et seq.) (the
"Act") specifies the procedures for renewal of landscape maintenance districts. Landscape Maintenance District No.
6 (LMD6) was established in 1980 at the request of the developer in lieu of forming a Homeowners'
Association. LMD6 is generally located in the easterly end of the City known as South Hills. The funds collected
by the district are used to maintain landscaping and irrigation in public open space areas within its
boundaries. LMD6 contains 238 single-family dwellings, approximately 12 acres of landscaped and irrigated areas,
1NW I LLDAN
but not limited to: labor, materials, equipment and administration expenses as well
as the collection of appropriate funding necessary to properly support the
improvements. Not all services and costs identified in these budgets can be
supported by the current assessment revenues and City contributions, and as
such, City staff shall make the determination of which services and activities shall
be provided based on available revenues.
Part IV
Boundary Map: A diagram showing the boundaries of the District is provided in
this Report and includes all parcels determined to receive special benefits from the
improvements. Parcel identification, the lines and dimensions of each lot, parcel
and subdivision of land within the District are shown on the Los Angeles County
Assessor's Parcel Maps, and shall include any subsequent lot line adjustments or
parcel changes therein. Reference is hereby made to the Los Angeles County
Assessor's Parcel Maps for a detailed description of the lines and dimensions of
each lot and parcel of land within the District. A diagram showing the overall
boundaries of the District is on file with the City Clerk and the Office of the City
Engineer, and by reference is made part of this Report.
Part V
Assessment Roll: A listing of the assessment amount associated with each parcel
within the District. The assessments presented herein are unchanged from the
previous fiscal year.
PROPOSITION 218 COMPLIANCE
On November 5, 1996, California voters approved Proposition 218 ("Prop 218").
This Proposition amended the California Constitution and was the latest in a series
of initiatives reducing the revenue -raising discretion of California local
governments. The provisions of the Proposition, now California Constitution
Articles XIII C and XIII D, can be summarized in four general areas:
1. Strengthens the general and special tax provisions of Proposition 13 and
Proposition 62.
2. Extends the initiative process to all local taxes, assessments, fees, and charges.
3. Adds substantive and procedural requirements to assessments.
4. Adds substantive and procedural requirements to property -related fees and
charges.
Prop 218 required that beginning July 1, 1997, all new and existing assessments
(with some exceptions) must conform to new substantive and procedural
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 3
1NW I LLDAN
requirements. However, certain assessments are exempted from these
requirements until they are increased.
Generally, these exemptions include:
(a) Assessments used exclusively to fund sidewalks, streets, sewers, water,
flood control, drainage systems, or vector control.
(b) Assessments imposed pursuant to a petition signed by the persons owning
all of the parcels subject to the assessment at the time the assessment is
initially imposed.
(c) Assessments used exclusively for bond repayments, the cessation of which
would violate the Contract Impairment Clause of the U.S. Constitution.
(d) Assessments previously approved by a majority of voters.
Since the District and the related assessments were established in 1980 at the
request of the owner of the property, the initial District assessments were not
required to conform with the Article XIIID substantive and procedural requirements.
The maximum assessment rate for the District at the time of the passage of Prop
218 was $650.00 previously approved by the City Council in Fiscal Year 1984/'85.
Any subsequent increases in the assessments above the maximum rate previously
approved by City Council prior to November 5, 1996 will be subject to the
procedures and approval process of Section 4 of Article XIIID of the California
Constitution.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 4
1NW I LLDAN
/, PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS
A. DESCRIPTION OF WORK
The existing facilities to be maintained and serviced include public open space,
manufactured slopes, and appurtenant facilities. There are approximately 12
acres of landscaped and irrigated area and 65 acres of natural open space within
the District.
The District will fund the costs in connection with the District maintenance and
servicing including, but not limited to, personnel, electrical energy, water,
materials, contracting services, and other expenses necessary for the satisfactory
operation of these facilities. The facilities are described as follows:
Landscaping and Appurtenant Facilities
Facilities include but are not limited to trees, irrigation system, hardscape,
fixtures, sidewalk maintenance resulting from landscape growth and
appurtenant facilities, in open spaces and dedicated easements within the
boundaries of the District.
"Maintenance" means the furnishing of services and materials for the ordinary and
usual operation, maintenance and servicing of the landscaping, and appurtenant
facilities, including repair, removal or replacement of all or part of any of the
landscaping or appurtenant facilities; providing for the life, growth, health, and
beauty of the landscaping, including cultivation, irrigation, trimming, spraying,
fertilizing, and treating for disease or injury; the removal of trimmings, rubbish,
debris and other solid waste; and the cleaning, sandblasting and painting of walls
and the improvements to remove or cover graffiti.
"Servicing" means the furnishing of water for the irrigation of landscaping and the
maintenance or operation of landscaping or appurtenant facilities.
B. IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT
As applicable or may be applicable to this proposed District, the 1972 Act defines
improvements to mean one or any combination of the following:
• The installation or planting of landscaping.
• The installation or construction of statuary, fountains, and other ornamental
structures and facilities.
• The installation or construction of public lighting facilities.
• The installation or construction of any facilities which are appurtenant to any
of the foregoing or which are necessary or convenient for the maintenance
or servicing thereof, including, but not limited to, grading, clearing, removal
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 5
W W I LLDAN
of debris, the installation or construction of curbs, gutters, walls, sidewalks,
or paving, or water, irrigation, drainage, or electrical facilities.
• The maintenance or servicing, or both, of any of the foregoing.
• The acquisition of any existing improvement otherwise authorized pursuant
to this section.
Incidental expenses associated with the improvements including, but not limited
to:
• The cost of preparation of the report, including plans, specifications,
estimates, diagram, and assessment;
• The costs of printing, advertising, and the publishing, posting and mailing of
notices;
• Compensation payable to the County for collection of assessments;
• Compensation of any engineer or attorney employed to render services;
• Any other expenses incidental to the construction, installation, or
maintenance and servicing of the improvements;
• Any expenses incidental to the issuance of bonds or notes pursuant to
Section 22662.5.
• Costs associated with any elections held for the approval of a new or
increased assessment.
The 1972 Act defines "Maintain" or "Maintenance" to mean furnishing of services
and materials for the ordinary and usual maintenance, operation, and servicing of
any improvement, including:
• Repair, removal, or replacement of all or any part of any improvement.
• Providing for the life, growth, health, and beauty of landscaping, including
cultivation, irrigation, trimming, spraying, fertilizing, or treating for disease
or injury.
• The removal of trimmings, rubbish, debris, and other solid waste.
• The cleaning, sandblasting, and painting of walls and other improvements
to remove or cover graffiti.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 6
1NW I LLDAN
C. DESCRIPTION OF IMPROVEMENTS AND SERVICES
The District is located in the easterly end of the City known as South Hills on the
westerly -facing slopes of the San Jose Hills. The District contains 238 single-family
dwellings, approximately 12 acres of landscaped and irrigated area, and
approximately 65 acres of natural area.
The following outlines the various improvements associated with the properties
and developments throughout the District. The detailed plans and specifications of
the District improvements are on file in the office of the City Public Works
Department and by reference are made part of this Report.
FY 2020-21, improvements included:
• There were no improvements made for FY 2020-21.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 7
W WILLDAN
A METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT
The 1972 Act permits the establishment of assessment Districts by agencies for
the purpose of providing certain public improvements which include the
construction, maintenance, and servicing of public lights, landscaping and
appurtenant facilities. The 1972 Act further requires that the cost of these
improvements be levied according to benefit rather than assessed value:
"The net amount to be assessed upon lands within an assessment District may be
apportioned by any formula or method which fairly distributes the net amount among
all assessable lots or parcels in proportion to the estimated benefits to be received
by each such lot or parcel from the improvements."
Because assessments are levied on the basis of benefit, they are not a tax, and,
therefore, are not governed by Article XIIIA of the California Constitution.
Section 22574 of the 1972 Act permits the designation of zones of benefits within any
individual assessment District if "by reason of variation in the nature, location, and
extent of the improvements, the various areas will receive different degrees of benefit
from the improvements." Thus, the 1972 Act requires the levy of a true "assessment"
rather than a "special tax."
The 1972 Act also permits certain parcels to be exempt from assessment. Excluded
from these assessments are areas of all publicly owned property such as: public
streets, public avenues, public lanes, public roads, public drives, public courts, public
alleys, all public easements, and right-of-way, all public parks, public greenbelts and
parkways, and all public property being used for public purposes. However, per
Proposition 218, any publicly owned property that benefits from District
improvements shall be assessed its proportional share of District costs.
The formula used for calculating assessments in this District reflects the
composition of the parcels, and the improvements and services provided in order
to fairly apportion the costs based on estimated benefit to each parcel.
A. BENEFIT ANALYSIS
All parcels in the District derive benefit from the maintenance and servicing of
trees, landscaping, hardscaping and appurtenant facilities. The intent of this
Report is to establish a methodology that fairly distributes the cost of the system
in relation to the benefit received.
The assessment ratio for all properties is based on dwelling units. Each single
family residential parcel, condominium complex, apartment, duplex, triplex, mobile
home park, and other developed land is assessed per dwelling unit. This pro-
ration accounts for an adjustment for street right-of-way and public easements.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 8
1NW I LLDAN
B. ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
The methods of apportionment utilized for the District calculates the receipt of
special benefit from the respective improvements based on the actual or proposed
land use of the parcels. The special benefit received by each lot or parcel is
equated to the overall land use of the parcel based on the parcel's actual land use
or proposed planned development, and is reliant upon the special benefit received
from the improvements planned or existing within the District.
To identify and determine the special benefit to be received by each parcel, it is
necessary to consider the entire scope of the improvements. The costs associated
with the improvements shall be fairly distributed among the parcels based upon
the special benefit received by each parcel. Additionally, in compliance with
Section 4 of Article XIIID, each parcel's assessment may not exceed the
reasonable cost of the proportional special benefit conferred to that parcel. The
benefit formula used to determine the assessment obligation is therefore based
upon both the improvements that benefit the parcels of the District as well as the
proposed land use of each property as compared to other parcels that benefit from
those specific improvements.
All properties in the District benefit from the maintenance and servicing of trees,
landscaping, hardscaping and appurtenant facilities. There are 238 parcels within
the District equaling 238 dwelling units.
Therefore, the assessment rate for the District is proposed to be maintained as:
$154,700.00 = $650.00 DU
238
The following table summarizes the assessment rates and compares the proposed
assessment with last year's assessment.
City of West Covina
Landscape Maintenance District No. 6
2020/2021 238 238 $650 $650 $154.700
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 9
1NW I LLDAN
X ESTIMATE OF COST
The total estimate of costs for maintenance of the proposed improvements for FY
2020/2021, as defined under Section 22569 of the 1972 Act, are those as hereinafter set
forth. Said cost estimates include the total District costs for constructing or installing any
proposed improvements and for maintenance and servicing the existing improvements
including incidental expenses; the amount of any surplus or deficit in the maintenance
fund to be carried over from the previous year; any annual installments to be collected
over more than a single year; as well as the amount of any contributions to be made from
any other sources.
A. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FUND
For FY 2020/2021, there are no capital improvements.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 10
1NW I LLDAN
B. SUMMARY OF TOTAL COSTS
The City's budget for the operation and services costs detail the estimated costs
and fund balances for FY 2020/2021 as available at the time of preparation of this
Report. The 1972 Act provides that the total cost can be recovered in the
assessment spread including incidental expenses. The latter can include
engineering fees, legal fees, printing, mailing, postage, publishing, and all other
related costs identified with the District proceedings.
The 1972 Act requires that a special fund be set-up for the revenue and
expenditures of the District. Funds raised by assessment shall be used only for
the purpose as stated herein. A contribution to the District by the City may be
made to reduce assessments, as the City Council deems appropriate. Any
balance or deficit remaining on July 1st must be carried over to the next fiscal year.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 11
W"W I LLDAN
Expenditures
Direct Maintenance Totals
Personnel Services $37,812
Materials and Services
Maintenance Contracts
$72,120
Utilities (electricity & water)
23,000
Property & Liability Insurance'
0
Administration & Overhead'
5,202
Best Management Practices Implementation
14,565
Subtotal
$114,887
Engineering & Incidental
Full Time Salaries and Benefits
$7,487
NPDES
5,000
Equipment Outlay
0
Subtotal
$12,487
Total Operating Budget
$165,186
Capital Improvemerl
0
Total Operating and Capital Budget
$165,186
Contingency and Reserves
Cash Flow Reserves
$82,593
Contingency
75,432
Total Contingency and Reserves
$158,025
Revenues
Assessment Income (Total Balance to Levy) $154,700
Total Estimated Revenues $154,700
Projected Fund Balance (06/30/20) 168,511
"I See Capital Improvement Project Fund Section III. A.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 12
and approximately 65 acres of natural area.
DISCUSSION:
The initial step of the renewal process is to adopt Resolution No. 2020-29, ordering the Engineer's Report
This report has been completed and includes plans and specifications for improvements, estimated costs,
assessment diagrams, and assessments spread to cover the estimated costs. The report was prepared in accordance
with the Act.
The next step in the renewal process is the preliminary approval of the Engineer's Report and adoption of
Resolution of Intention concerning the levy and collection of assessments for LMD6. Staff is recommending setting
a public hearing date of June 2, 2020 as required in the Act. At the public hearing, the City Council will consider
all written and oral comments regarding the level of assessments, and the maintenance and capital improvement
work proposed for LMD6. The renewal process requires that a public notice be posted and published in a locally
circulated newspaper, but does not require notices be mailed to each resident. Upon the conclusion of the hearing,
the City Council should adopt a resolution confirming the diagram and assessment levy either as proposed or as
changed by the City Council.
At this time, staff recommends that the assessment rates be maintained at their current levels for Fiscal Year
2020-2021. The annual assessment rates for LMD6 will be maintained at $650 per lot annually ($54.16 per month).
Key point: For various reasons rates have not been increased since 2009, which has led to reduced services and
increased concerns by residents. Staff is suggesting that the City conduct a full study of what a proper level of
maintenance would cost and explore how to set the assessment rate accordingly. Maintenance districts are supposed
to be self -funded and not rely on a geneal fund contribution. The study will take several months and if rates are to
be increased it will require a Proposition 218 mail vote of the affected property owners.
LEGAL REVIEW:
The City Attorney's Office has reviewed and approved the resolutions as to form.
OPTIONS:
The City Council has the following options:
1. Maintain the assessment rates at their current levels. The attached "10-Year Fiscal Projection" shows rates
being maintained at their current levels and the reserve levels over the next 10 years. Staff is recommending
this option.
2. Reduce the assessment rates; LMD6's reserves will be depleted at a faster pace requiring the City's General
Fund to subsidize the district.
3. To increase the assessment rates above the maximum rate of $650 annually. LMD6 would need to comply
with the mail ballot provision of Proposition 218.
4. To not renew the district. If the City Council does not wish to continue the district and wishes to fund the
district from the General Fund, the resolutions are not necessary.
Prepared by: Michael Ackerman, City Engineer
Fiscal Impact
FISCAL IMPACT:
1NW I LLDAN
IV, BOUNDARY MAP
A diagram showing the exterior boundaries of the District and the lines and dimension of
each lot or parcel of land within the District is on file in the Office of the City Engineer and
incorporated herein by reference. The lines and dimensions shown on the Los Angeles
County Assessor's parcel maps for the current year are incorporated by reference and
made part of this Report.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 13
W WILLDAN
CITY OF WEST CQVINA
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
DT9TR IC"T Xn F
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 14
W"W I LLDAN
K ASSESSMENT ROLL
Parcel identification for each lot or parcel within the District shall be the parcel as
shown on the Los Angeles County Secured Roll for the year in which this Report
is prepared and reflective of the Assessor's Parcel Maps. A listing of the proposed
lots and parcels to be assessed within this District along with the assessment
amounts shall be submitted to the City Clerk, under a separate cover, and by
reference is made part of this Report.
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 15
ATTACHMENT NO. 3
West Covina Landscape Maintenance District No. 6
10 Year Fiscal Projection
Assessment Income
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
$154,700
Prior Year Balance
168,511
158,025
144,235
127,076
106,479
82,377
54,698
23,372
(11,675)
Total Funding
$323,211
$312,725
$298,935
$281,776
$261,179
$237,077
$209,398
$178,072
$143,025
Maintenance Costs(i)
165,186
168,490
171,859
175,297
178,803
182,379
186,026
189,747
193,542
Total Cost
$165,186
$168,490
$171,859
$175,297
$178,803
$182,379
$186,026
$189,747
$193,542
Ending Balance
$158,025
$144,235
$127,076
$106,479
$82,377
$54,698
$23,372
($11,675)
($50,516)
Cash Flow
82,593
84,245
85,930
87,648
89,401
91,189
93,013
94,873
96,771
Over/Under
75,432
59,991
41,146
18,831
(7,025)
(36,491)
(69,641)
(106,548)
(147,287)
Assessment of Highest Zonefzf
$650
$650
$650
$650
$650
$650
$650
$650
$650
Notes: (1) 2 % increase in maintenance cost each year due to inflation.
(2) Previously approved maximum highest rate of $650, may not be increased further without vote
ATTACHMENT NO.4
I I, R14TR1y Y [1i0MLCM0PTlbl9
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE PREPARATION AND FILING
OF A REPORT REGARDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2020-21 ASSESSMENT
TO BE LEVIED IN CONNECTION WITH LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
DISTRICT NO.6
WHEREAS, the City's Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 (the `District') has been
established pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Streets and Highways Code
Section 22500 et seq.) (the Acf) to fiord the maintenance and servicing of certain public
landscaping and appurtenant facilities in the City and
WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment
against real property; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to initiate proceedings to levy the assessment for
Fiscal Year 2020-21 in connection with the District; and
WHEREAS, no increased assessments, new improvements nor substantial changes in
existing improvements within the District are proposed.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST COVINA,
CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. The City Council orders Willdan Financial Services, as assessment
engineer, to prepare and file with the City Clerk a report on the assessment in connection with
the District for Fiscal Year 2020-21. Such report shall include all information required by
Section 22565 et seq. of the Act.
SECTION 3. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and shall
enter the same in the book of original resolutions and it shall become effective immediately.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 5th day of May 2020.
Tony Wu
Mayor
APPROVED AS FORM ATTEST
Thomas P. Duarte Lisa Sherrick
City Attorney Assistant City Clerk
I, LISA SHERRICK, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK of the City of West Covina,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2020-29 was duly adopted by the
City Council of the City of West Covina, California, at a regular meeting thereof hell on the 5th
day of May, 2020, by the following vote of the City Council:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Lisa Sherrick
Assistant City Clerk
ATTACHMENT NO. 5
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
COVINA, CALIFORNIA, PRELIMINARILY APPROVING THE
ENGINEER'S REPORT FOR LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE DISTRICT
NO. 6, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO LEVY AND COLLECT
ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SAID DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020-21
AND SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING SUCH
ASSESSMENTS
WHEREAS, the City's Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 (the "District') has been
established pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972 (Streets and Highways Code
Section 22500 et seq.) (the "Acf) to find the maintenance and servicing of certain public
landscaping and appurtenant facilities in the City; and
WHEREAS, in connection with the District, the City annually levies an assessment against
real property; and
WHEREAS, by its Resolution No. 2020-29, adopted May 5, 2020, the City Council
directed Wifldan Financial, as assessment engineer (the 'Engineer), to prepare and file a report
regarding the District; and
WHEREAS, the Engineer has filed said report, entitled "City of West Covina, Landscape
Maintenance District No. 6, Fiscal Year 2020/2021 Engineer's Report" (the "Report') and the
Report is on file and available for public inspection in the Office of the City Clerk and is
incorporated herein by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to continue with proceedings to levy the assessment
in connection with the District for Fiscal Year 2020-21 as described in the Report.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST COVINA,
CALIFORNIA DOES HEREBY RESOLVE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. The Report is preliminarily approved.
SECTION 2. The City Council declares its intention to levy and collect assessments within
the District for Fiscal Year 2020-21 and notes that:
(a) The distinctive name of the District is the "City of West Covina Landscape
Maintenance District No.6."
(b) The District is generally located in the easterly part of the City of West Covina on
the westerly -facing slopes of the San Jose Hills.
(c) The existing and proposed improvements are generally described as to landscaping
and irrigation in public open space areas within the boundaries of the District. No
substantial changes are proposed to the nature of the improvements.
(d) Reference is made to the Engineer's Report, on file with the City Clerk, for a full and
detailed description of the improvements, the boundaries of the assessment district
and any zones therein, and the proposed assessments upon assessable lots and parcels
of land within the District.
(e) The rate of this assessment is not proposed to increase from the rate levied in Fiscal
Year 2019-20.
SECTION 3. A Public Hearing is set for Tuesday, June 2, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers located at 1444 West Garvey Avenue South in the City of West Covina, which
hearing may be conducted electronically if the City Council Chambers remain closed due to the
COVID-19 pandemic, to take the testimony on the issue of whether or not the assessments should
be approved.
SECTION 4. The City Clerk shall give notice of said Public Hearing in the time, form, and
manner as required by law, including but not limited to publication of this resolution in accordance
with Streets and Highways Code Sections 22552 and 22553.
SECTION 5. The City Council finds that the levy and collection of these assessments is
statutorily exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act under § 15273 of the Guidelines,
as none of the proceeds will be used for capital expenses, but will be used instead for operation and
maintenance.
SECTION 6. The City Clerk shall certify to the adoption of this resolution and shall enter
the same in the book of original resolutions and it shall become effective immediately.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 5th day of May 2020.
Tony Wu
Mayor
APPROVED AS FORM ATTEST
Thomas P. Duarte Lisa Sherrick
City Attorney Assistant City Clerk
I, USA SHERRICK, ASSISTANT CITY CLERK of the City of West Covina,
California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2020-30 was duly adopted by the
City Council of the City of West Covina, California, at a regular meeting thereof hell on the 5th
day of May, 2020, by the following vote of the City Council:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Lisa Sherrick
Assistant City Clerk
The Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Engineer's Report for LMD6 recommends that the assessment rates be maintained at
their current levels. The assessment rate for LMD6 is based on a special uniform benefit to the property owners
and is recommended to remain at its current level of $650 per lot annually ($54.16 per month). The projected
income from the recommended rates is $154,700. Including the balance of $168,511 from the previous year, the
total funds available is $323,211.
The preliminary operating budget for LMD6 is $165,186, which is an increase of 2% when compared to the
approved/amended budget for Fiscal Year 2019-2020. The proposed operating budget funds only the regular
landscape maintenance services.
There are no legal requirements or formal guidelines for the amount of reserves in an assessment district; however,
at least 50% is required to cover cash flow. A reserve between 100% and 200% is recommended by staff to cover
cash flow, future capital projects, emergencies, and as a benefit it also provides interest income
Attachments
Attachment No. 1 - 15 Year Rate History
Attachment No. 2 - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 - Engineer's Report
Attachment No. 3 - 10 Year Fiscal Projection
Attachment No. 4 - Resolution No. 2020-29
Attachment No. 5 - Resolution No. 2020-30
CITY COUNCIL GOALS & OBJECTIVES: Enhance City Facilities and Infrastructure
Enhance the City Image and Effectiveness
Respond to the Global COVID-19 Pandemic
ATTACHMENT NO. 1
West Covina
Landscape Maintenance District No.6
15 Year Rate History
Fiscal Year Per Unit Zone
2020/2021 $650.00
Proposed
2019/20
$650.00
2018/19
$650.00
2017/18
$650.00
2016/17
$650.00
2015/16
$650.00
2014/15
$650.00
2013/14
$650.00
2012/13
$650.00
2011/12
$650.00
2010/11
$650.00
2009/10
$617.41
2008/09
$588.01
2007/08
$520.36
2006/07
$460.49
ATTACHMENT NO. 2
City of West Covina
Landscape Maintenance
District No. 6
FISCALYEAR 2020/2021 ENGINEER'S REPORT
Intent Meeting: May 5, 2020
Public Hearing: June 2, 2020
W"W I LLQAN
ENGINEER'S REPORT AFFIDAVIT
Landscape Maintenance District No. 6
City of West Covina
County of Los Angeles, State of California
This Report describes the District including the improvements, budgets, parcels and
assessments to be levied for Fiscal Year 2020/2021 as they existed at the time of the
passage of the Resolution of Intention. Reference is hereby made to the Los Angeles
County Assessor's maps for a detailed description of the lines and dimensions of parcels
within the District. The undersigned respectfully submits the enclosed Report as directed
by the City Council.
Dated this day of 2020.
Willdan Financial Services
Assessment Engineer
On Behalf of the City of West Covina
By:
Chonney Gano, Project Manager
District Administration Services
By:
Richard Kopecky
R. C. E. # 16742
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OVERVIEW.....................................................................................................................1
PROPOSITION 218 COMPLIANCE...............................................................................3
I.
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS.............................................................................5
A.
DESCRIPTION OF WORK...................................................................................5
B.
IMPROVEMENTS AUTHORIZED BY THE 1972 ACT.........................................5
C.
DESCRIPTION OF IMPROVEMENTS AND SERVICES.....................................7
II.
METHOD OF APPORTIONMENT...........................................................................8
A.
BENEFIT ANALYSIS............................................................................................8
B.
ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY........................................................................9
III.
ESTIMATE OF COST...........................................................................................10
A.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT FUND....................................................10
B.
SUMMARY OF TOTAL COSTS.........................................................................11
IV.
BOUNDARY MAP.................................................................................................13
V.
ASSESSMENT ROLL............................................................................................15
W WILLDAN
OVERVIEW
The City of West Covina ("City"), annually levies and collects assessments in order
to provide and maintain facilities, improvements and services within Landscape
Maintenance District No. 6 ("District"). The District was established in 1980
pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of 1972, Part 2 of Division 15 of the
Streets and Highways Code (" 1972 Act"). The District was created at the request
of the owner of the development in lieu of forming a Homeowner's Association.
The funds collected by the District are used to maintain landscaping and irrigation
in public open space areas within its boundaries.
The Engineer's Report ("Report") has been prepared pursuant to Chapter 1, Article
4 and Chapter 3 of the 1972 Act, and presented to the City Council for their
consideration and approval of the proposed improvements and services to be
provided within the District and the levy and collection of annual assessments for
Fiscal Year ("FY") 2020/2021.
This Report describes the District, the improvements and the proposed
assessments to be levied against properties in connection with the benefits the
properties will receive from the maintenance and servicing of the District
improvements for FY 2020/2021. The annual assessments to be levied on
properties within the District provide a funding source for the continued operation
and maintenance of local landscape improvements installed in connection with the
development of properties within the District. Each fiscal year, the City establishes
the District's assessments based on an estimate of the costs to maintain, operate
and service the landscape improvements and based upon available revenues
including fund balances, City contributions and assessment limits. The costs of the
improvements and the proposed annual assessments budgeted and assessed
against properties within the District may include: the estimated expenditures for
regular annual maintenance and repairs; incidental expenditures related to the
operation and administration of the District; deficits or surpluses from prior years;
revenues from other sources; and the collection of adequate funds for operational
reserves or periodic expenditures including installments collected for long-term
improvement projects. Each parcel is assessed proportionately for only those
improvements, services and expenses for which the parcel will receive special
benefit.
The word "parcel," for the purposes of this Report, refers to an individual property
assigned its own Assessor's Parcel Number ("APN") by the Los Angeles County
("County") Assessor's Office. The County Auditor/Controller uses Assessor's
Parcel Numbers and specific Fund Numbers to identify properties to be assessed
on the tax roll for the special benefit assessments.
At a noticed annual Public Hearing, the City Council will accept all public comments
and written protests regarding the District and the annual levy of assessments.
2019-20 City of West Covina Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 1
YA WILLDAN
Upon conclusion of the Public Hearing, the City Council will consider all public
comments and review the Report. The City Council may order amendments to the
Report or confirm the Report as submitted. Following final approval of the Report
and confirmation of the assessments the Council will, by Resolution, order the
improvements to be made and confirm the levy and collection of assessments
pursuant to the 1972 Act. The assessments as approved will be submitted to the
County Auditor/Controller to be included on the property tax roll for each parcel.
While the budgets outlined in this Report reflect the estimated costs necessary to
fully and adequately provide for the maintenance and operation of the
improvements within the District, many of these estimated costs and associated
services cannot be funded by the current assessment revenues. To fully fund the
improvements, it will be necessary to increase assessment revenues which will
require the support of the property owners for new or increased assessments
through a ballot proceeding conducted under the provisions of the California
Constitution Article XIIID. Although such proceedings are not being conducted this
fiscal year and the proposed District assessments for FY 2020/2021 are not being
increased over the assessments levied in the prior fiscal year, such assessment
increases may be considered in the future due to the rising costs associated with
the Maintenance District improvements.
As required by the 1972 Act, this Engineer's Report describes the improvements
to be operated, maintained and serviced by the District, an estimated budget for
the District improvements, and the proposed assessments to be levied upon each
assessable lot or parcel within the Maintenance District for FY 2020/2021.
This Report consists of five (5) parts:
Part I
Plans and Specifications: A general description of the District and the
improvements for which parcels are assessed. The proposed assessments as
outlined in this Report are based on the improvements that provide a special
benefit to the properties within the District. The plans and specifications contained
in this Report generally describe the nature, location and extent of the
improvements.
Part II
Method of Apportionment: A description of how the proportionate amount of the
assessments is to be charged in proportion to the benefits received by each lot or
parcel within the boundaries of the District.
Part III
Estimate of Costs: An estimate of the annual costs to properly operate, maintain,
and service the landscape improvements and appurtenant facilities. This budget
includes an estimate of the maintenance costs and incidental expenses including,
2020/2021 City of West Covina - Landscape Maintenance District No. 6 Page 2