05-15-2018 - Regular Meeting - MinutesCITY OF WEST COVINA
CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY
TUESDAY MAY 15, 2018, 7:00 PM
REGULAR MEETING
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1444 W. GARVEY AVENUE SOUTH
WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA 91790
MINUTES
CALL TO ORDER — Mayor Spence called the meeting to order at 7:17 p.m.
INVOCATION — Led by Pastor Pete Morehead from New Hope Community Church
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE — Led by Mayor Mike Spence
ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmember Toma, Councilmember Warshaw, Councilman Wu, Mayor Pro Tern
Johnson, Mayor Spence
Staff Present: Assistant City Manager/Community Services Director Nikole Bresciani, Deputy
City Manager Laura Biery, City Attorney Kimberly Hall Barlow, Public Works Director Chino
Consunji, Planning Director Jeff Anderson, Fire Chief Larry Whithom, Public Works
Superintendent Micah Martin, Parks Facilities Supervisor K. Yoshino, Senior Planner Ron
Garcia, Community and Economic Development Manager Paulina Morales, Assistant City Clerk
Rosalia Butler
Tuesday May 15, 2018
REPORTING OUT FROM CLOSED SESSION
City Attorney Hall Barlow indicated that no reportable action was taken.
CHANGES TO THE AGENDA
City Manager Freeland stated that there was a modification to the agreement on Item No. 13.
PRESENTATIONS
Proclamation proclaiming May 2018 as Lupus Awareness Month
Proclamation proclaiming May 20-26, 2018 as National Public Works Week
Check Presentation to VFW Post 8620 from the West Covina Professional Firefighters
Association Local 3226
Check Presentation to Friends of the West Covina Police K-9's from The McIntyre
Company
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - Five (5) minutes per speaker
Jim Grivich expressed concerns regarding the low number of traffic citations given within the
City and stated that the Police Department should issue more citations to create additional
revenue for City Hall.
Wen Wen Zhang spoke on behalf of the West Covina Library and stated that the library will be a
mail-in voting location for the upcoming election on June 5, 2018. In addition, she stated that the
library will be a polling location from June 1, 2018 - June 3, 2018 and will be open from 8:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Carlos Lifoggue shared his concerns regarding the Active Transportation Plan and expressed his
disapprOval regarding the aforementioned plan.
Vicki Scheliga spoke on behalf of The West Covina Lions Club regarding the upcoming annual
event Night on the Town, held on May 20, 2018 at The Lakes Entertainment Center from 6:00
p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
John Shewmaker expressed concerns regarding an additional sales tax and shared his concerns
regarding the high number of City expenditures, and the lack of leadership within City Hall.
Carolyn Arndt expressed concerns regarding child drownings and stressed the need to teach
children to swim in West Covina.
2
Tuesday May 15, 2018
Gayle Mason shared her concerns regarding the L.A. County Fair and stressed the importance of
having a West Covina Day at the Fair. She also spoke on sanctuary cities and expressed her
approval regarding the professionalism and positive attitudes of the Councilmembers during the
April 3, 2018 Regular City Council Meeting.
Sandra Taylor expressed concerns regarding the annual recycling program and the lack of
communication between City Hall and West Covina residents.
Elsie Messman spoke on Item No. 15 and expressed her disapproval regarding the number of
work trucks the City requested to purchase. She also shared her concerns regarding the tax
measure Couneilmember Warshaw proposed to place on the ballot for the upcoming election.
Jamie Lee shared her concerns regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and stated that City
law should comply with State law and allow residents to build ADU's according to state
standards.
Alfred Williams stated that Council should implement budget cuts instead of inflicting more taxes
on the residents. Mr. Williams also expressed concerns regarding Mayor Spence's health issues
and competency to perform mayoral duties.
Frederick Sykes expressed concerns regarding Mayor Spence and stated that Mr. Spence should
be removed from his position as Mayor.
Claudia Goytia spoke on behalf of the American Heart Association in support of the Active
Transportation Plan.
Assistant City Manager/Community Services Director Bresciani, City Manager Freeland, and
Mayor Spence gave responses to speaker inquiries.
CONSENT CALENDAR
APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES (receive & file)
1) May 1, 2018 Closed Session Meeting Minutes
May 1, 2018 Regular City Council/Successor Agency Meeting Minutes
May 7, 2018 Special Community Budget Workshop Meeting Minutes
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
approve the aforementioned meeting minutes. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
3
Tuesday May 15, 2018
INVESTMENT REPORT (receive & file)
2) City Investment Report for the Month Ended March 31, 2018
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file the Investment Report for the
month ended March 31, 2018.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
approve the aforementioned City Investment Report. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
3) Successor Agency Investment Report for the Month Ended March 31, 2018
It is recommended that the Chair and Board Members of the Successor Agency to the
former West Covina Redevelopment Agency, receive and file the Investment Report for
the month ended March 31, 2018.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
receive and file the Investment Report for the month ended March 31, 2018. Motion was
carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
4) Lakes Operating Agreement
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the
Operating Agreement, subject to City Attorney approval, for a Portion of the Parking
Facilities with CIP 2014/SG Covina Owner, LLC (CIP) for a term of five (5) years.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
authorize the City Manager to execute the Operating Agreement, subject to City Attorney
approval, for a Portion of the Parking Facilities with CIP 2014/SG Covina Owner, LLC
(CIP) for a term of five (5) years. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
4
Tuesday May 15, 2018
CITY CLERK'S OFFICE
5) November 6, 2018 General Municipal Election Resolution Calling for Election and
Requesting Consolidation Services with Los Angeles County
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolutions related to the
November 6, 2018 General Municipal Election for the purpose of electing three (3)
Members of the City Council representing Districts 2, 4 and 5 along with a City Clerk and
a City Treasurer whose terms will expire:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-57 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6,
2018, FOR THE ELECTION OF CERTAIN OFFICERS AS REQUIRED BY THE
PROVISIONS OF THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA RELATING TO
GENERAL LAW CITIES
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-58 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COLTNC1L OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF
SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO CONSOLIDATE A
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6,
2018, WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE DATE
PURSUANT TO SECTION 10403 OF THE ELECTIONS CODE
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-59 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR
CANDIDATES FOR ELECTIVE OFFICE PERTAINING TO CANDIDATE'S
STATEMENTS SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT AN ELECTION TO BE HELD
ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2018
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
adopt Resolution No. 2018-57, Resolution No. 2018-58, and Resolution 2018-59. Motion
was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
6) Plaza West Covina Parking Agreement
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a Second
Amendment to the Parking Agreement with Starwood Capital Partners to increase the
portion of the City Parking Structure allowed to be used by Starwood Capital Partners at
the Plaza West Covina Mall.
5
Tuesday May 15, 2018
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
authorize the City Manager to execute a Second Amendment to the Parking Agreement
with Starwood Capital Partners to increase the portion of the City Parking Structure
allowed to be used by Starwood Capital Partners at the Plaza West Covina Mall. Motion
was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
7) A Resolution Authorizing the Investment of Funds in the State of California Local
Agency Investment Fund, Designating Authorized Staff as Authorized Signatories
and Rescinding Resolution No. 2015-60
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-50 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE INVESTMENT OF
FUNDS IN THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND,
IDENTIFYING CHRIS FREELAND, CITY MANAGER, AND NIKOLE BRESCIANI,
ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER, FINANCE DIRECTOR, OR THEIR SUCCESSORS,
AS AUTHORIZED SIGNATORIES FOR THE INVESTMENT OF FUNDS IN THE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA LOCAL AGENCY INVESTMENT FUND AND
RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 2015-60
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
adopt Resolution No. 2018-50. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
8) Third Quarter Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2017-18
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1) Receive and file the Third Quarter Financial Report for Fiscal Year 2017-18; and
2) Adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-51 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A BUDGET AMENDMENT
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING . JULY 1, 2017, AND ENDING JUNE 30,
6
Tuesday May 15, 2018
2018 (Third Quarter Financial Report)
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
adopt Resolution No. 2018-51. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
9) Proposition A Exchange - Foothill Transit
It is recommended that the City Council approve the Proposition A Local Return Fund
Exchange with Foothill Trahsit and authorize the City Manager to execute the Assignment
Agreement.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
approve the Proposition A Local Return Fund Exchange with Foothill Transit and
authorize the City Manager to execute the Assignment Agreement. Motion was carried by
a vote of 4-0-1 with Councilmember Warshaw abstaining.
AYES: Toma, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Warshaw
10) Restructuring of Audit Committee
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolution, adding two
additional community members to the Audit Committee:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-60 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, REPLACING RESOLUTION NO. 2016-40
AMENDING THE PROCEDURES, RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE AUDIT
COMMITTEE
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
adopt Resolution No. 2018-60. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
7
Tuesday May 15, 2018
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
11) Planning Consultant On-Call Services
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
1) Approve M1G to be used for Planning Consultant On-Call Services for five years
ending May 15, 2023; and
2) Upon submittal of a development application, authorize the City Manager to execute
agreements up to $75,000 to complete Planning Consultant On-Call Services for a
development project.
Mayor Pro Tern Johnson pulled Item No. 11 for further discussion.
City Manager Freeland gave a brief overview of Item No. 11, and stated that on-call
planning consultants from MIG will be utilized for all upcoming City projects.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilmember
Warshaw to approve the aforementioned actions. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
12) Queen of the Valley Hospital Master Plan Project Manager, Specific Plan
Preparation and Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Preparation
It is recommended that the City Council take the following action:
I) Authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement up to $526,908 for Contract
Planner services, Specific Plan preparation and environmental impact report (EIR)
preparation.
Councilman Wu pulled Item No. 12 for further discussion.
Planning Director Anderson explained the project was a 10-12 month process to generate
an environmental impact report (EIR) and would be paid for by Queen of the Valley
Hospital.
Councilman Wu expressed concerns regarding the time frame of the aforementioned
report and the impact on the City's General Fund.
City Manager Freeland addressed Councilman Wu's concerns and clarified that the EIR
revenue would not be placed in the City's General Fund. Mr. Freeland also stated that the
revenue from said EIR would be placed into a park acquisition fund which is used to
expand parks within the community.
Tuesday May 15, 2018
Councilman Wu shared his concerns regarding the fiscal decline of the City.
City Attorney Hall Barlow stated that there should be no delay regarding the EIR, with
the exception of any additional approvals, or possible litigation.
A motion was made by Councilmember Warshaw and seconded by Councilmember
Toma to take the aforementioned actions. Motion was carried by a vote of 4-1, with
Councilman Wu in opposition.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Johnson, Spence
NOES: Wu
ABSENT: None
POLICE DEPARTMENT
13) Approval of a Site Access Agreement with LA-RICS
It is recommended that the City Council approve a Site Access Agreement (Agreement)
with the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) for the
BKK Communications Site.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
approve a Site Access Agreement (Agreement) with the Los Angeles Regional
Interoperable Communications System (LA-RICS) for the BKK Communications Site.
Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Tom, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC WORKS
14) Request for Reallocation of Property Taxes by the County of Los Angeles Sanitation
District No. 22 (Annexation No. 429) for 621 Wrede Way and 3014 E. Cameron
Avenue
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-52 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE JOINT RESOLUTION
OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, THE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES SANITATION
DISTRICT NO. 22, AND THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEST
COVINA, APPROVING AND ACCEPTING NEGOTIATED EXCHANGE OF
PROPERTY TAX REVENUES RESULTING FROM AN ANNEXATION TO
COUNTY SANITATION DISTRICT NO. 22, BEING ANNEXATION NO. 429
9
Tuesday May 15, 2018
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
adopt Resolution No. 2018-52. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
15) Purchase of Eight Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Work Trucks
It is recommended that the City Council take the following actions:
I) Approve the purchase order to National Auto Fleet Group in the amount of
$363,329.26 (including sales tax, delivery, and options) for the purchase of six (6) pickup
trucks and two (2) service body work trucks; and
2) Establish Project No. V-18047; and
3) Adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-53 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A BUDGET AMENDMENT
FOR THE FISCAL YEAR COMMENCING JULY 1, 2017 AND ENDING JUNE 30,
2018 (Purchase of Eight Compressed Natural Gas Work Trucks)
Councilmember Toma pulled Item No. 15 for further discussion.
Public Works Director Consunji gave a brief overview regarding Item No. 15 and
explained that it was more cost effective to purchase new trucks, as opposed to fixing the
existing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks.
City Manager Freeland stated that replacing the trucks were a safety concern due to the
harmful emissions and high mileage of the vehicles.
Mayor Spence voiced his concerns regarding the timeline of Item No. 15 and stated that
the fuel tanks for these vehicles have already expired, and should have been brought to the
City Council's attention sooner.
Public Works Director Consunji explained that this oversight was due to a lack of training
in the department, and shared that the upgrade of each individual fuel tank for the CNG
trucks will be too expensive.
City Manager Freeland clarified that the procedure to find the expiration on the fuel tanks
is an arduous one and can be easily overlooked.
Public Works Superintendent Martin shared that since the Maintenance department did
not have the qualifications or knowledge to maintain the CNG trucks, they sent the trucks
to a third-party body shop for routine vehicle maintenance. As a result of this, City staff
were unaware that the aforementioned fuel tanks were expired, and thus, rendered unsafe.
10
Tuesday May 15, 2018
In addition, Mr. Martin expressed that all new and existing vehicles would be thoroughly
inspected to ensure the safety of residents and staff, alike.
A motion was made by Councilmember Toma and seconded by Councilmember Warshaw
to take the aforementioned actions, and adopt Resolution No. 2018-53, Motion was
carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
16) Adoption of the Golden State Finance Authority (GSFA) Property Assessed Clean
Energy (PACE) Program Allowing Property Owners within the City's Jurisdiction
Access to Financing and Other Services for Energy Efficient and Seismic
Strengthening Improvement Construction Projects
It is recommended that the City Council adopt the following resolutions:
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-54 - A RESOLUTION OF THE crry COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, CONSENTING TO INCLUSION OF
PROPERTIES WITHIN THE CITY'S JURISDICTION IN THE GOLDEN STATE
FINANCE AUTHORITY (GSFA) COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2014-1
(CLEAN ENERGY) TO FINANCE RENEWABLE ENERGY IMPROVEMENTS,
ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND WATER CONSERVATION IMPROVEMENTS,
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE AND OTHER
IMPROVEMENTS AND APPROVING ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP IN THE JOINT
EXERCISE OF POWERS AUTHORITY RELATED THERETO
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-55 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF WEST COVINA, CALIFORNIA, CONSENTING TO INCLUSION OF
PROPERTIES WITHIN THE CITY'S JURISDICTION IN THE GOLDEN STATE
FINANCE AUTHORITY (GSFA) PROGRAM TO FINANCE RENEWABLE ENERGY
GENERATION, ENERGY AND WATER EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS,
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING INFRASTRUCTURE, AND OTHER
IMPROVEMENTS AND APPROVING ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP IN THE JOINT
EXERCISE OF POWERS AUTHORITY RELATED THERETO
Councilmember Toma pulled Item No. 16 for further discussion.
Public Works Director Consunji gave a brief overview on Item No. 16 and the Property
Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program. He also stated that this program was designed
to improve energy efficiency for residential and commercial buildings within the City.
A motion was made by Councilmember Toma and seconded by Councilmember Warshaw
to adopt Resolution No. 2018-54 and Resolution 2018-55. Motion was carried by a vote of
11
Tuesday May 15, 2018
5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
17) Renewal of Landscape Maintenance Agreement with the County of Los Angeles
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a five-year
renewal of Landscape Maintenance Agreement with the County of Los Angeles for the
West Covina Civic Center.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
execute a five-year renewal of Landscape Maintenance Agreement with the County of Los
Angeles for the West Covina Civic Center. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
18) Renewal of Parking Lease Agreement with the County of Los Angeles
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a five-year
renewal of the Parking Lease Agreement with the County of Los Angeles for the off-street
parking facilities at the West Covina Civic Center in substantially the form as attached.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
execute a five-year renewal of the Parking Lease Agreement with the County of Los
Angeles for the off-street parking facilities at the West Covina Civic Center in
substantially the form as attached. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Tom, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
19) Release of Faithful Performance Guarantee and Labor and Material Bonds for
Tract No. 72579 - Oak Creek - Holt, Inc.
It is recommended that the City Council accept all on-site and off-site improvements for
Tract No. 72579 located at 3228,3238 and 3244 Holt Avenue and authorize the release of
Faithful Performance and Labor and Material Bonds in the amount of $560,330 and
$181,897 respectively.
Councilmember Warshaw pulled Item No. 19 for further discussion.
Public Works Director Consunji provided a brief report regarding Item No. 19.
12
Tuesday May 15, 2018
A motion was made by Councilmember Warshaw and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern
Johnson to accept all on-site and off-site improvements for Tract No. 72579 located at
3228, 3238, and 3244 Holt Avenue and authorize the release of Faithful Performance and
Labor and Material Bonds in the amount of $560,330 and $181,897, respectively. Motion
was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
END OF CONSENT CALENDAR
HEARINGS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
20) West Covina Active Transportation Plan
a) Verification
b) Open hearing
c) Staff report
d) Open testimony
e) Council discussion
f) Recommendation: It is recommended that the City Council direct staff to revise the
West Covina Active Transportation Plan.
Mayor Spence re-opened the public hearing.
The following speakers were in favor of the item:
Jose Jimenez
The following speakers were in opposition of the item:
Linda Nguyen
Elsa Huizar
Jim Grivich
Kevin Chan
Rachel Chan
Sally Reinum
After seeing no one else wishing to speak from the public, Mayor Spence closed the
Public Hearing, and asked Council if they had any additional comments.
121
Tuesday May 15, 2018
A motion was made by Mayor Spence and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson to
remove Walnut Creek Parkway from the West Covina Active Transportation Plan (ATP).
Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Councilman Wu expressed concerns regarding the approval of the ATP, and suggested
for Council to exclude the proposed bike lanes on Sunset Avenue as well as those
adjacent to a school.
Mayor Spence shared his concerns regarding the cost of the ATP, and expressed his
disapproval of the aforementioned plan.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilmember
Warshaw to approve the West Covina Active Transportation Plan including Council
amendments. Motion was carried by a vote of 3-2, with Mayor Spence and Councilman
Wu in opposition.
AYES: To ma, Warshaw, Johnson
NOES: Wu, Spence
ABSENT: None
RECESS — Mayor Spence recessed the City Council meeting at 9:20 p.m. and reconvened the
meeting at 9:31 p.m. with all Councilmembers present to approve the remaining agenda items.
DEPARTMENTAL REGULAR MATTERS
CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
21) City Regulation of Independent Expenditures in Local Elections
It is recommended that the City Council provide direction to staff on whether or not to
prepare an ordinance regulating independent expenditures in local elections.
Councilmember Toma requested a staff report regarding a possible draft of an ordinance
concerning independent expenditures for electoral candidates during the Regular City
Council Meeting on April 17, 2018. In addition, he proposed that the process for
independent expenditures should require political campaigns to report all expenditures to
the City Clerk's Office.
City Attorney Hall Barlow stated that state law requires those affiliated with political
campaigns to disclose all independent expenditures of $1000 or more to the City in order
to increase transparency within the election. In addition, she also informed Council that
14
Tuesday May 15, 2018
the amount can be changed to reflect whichever amount they deem fit.
Councilmember Toma requested for all independent expenditures made to be reported to
the City Clerk 24 hours after the $1,000 threshold has been crossed, as well as displaying
the top two contributors with the greatest amount of expenditures on the City website for
public consumption.
City Attorney Hall Barlow addressed Councilmember Toma's concerns and stated that all
expenditures over the $1,000 limit are posted on the City website within the initial 24
hours of expenditure.
Mayor Spence inquired how unknown individuals and groups involved in independent
expenditures would be notified of the change.
City Attorney Hall Barlow addressed Mayor Spence's concerns and shared that the City
would publish the proposed Ordinance according to existing protocol.
A motion was made by Councilmember Toma and seconded by Councilmember Warshaw
to require all individuals or groups with independent expenditures of $1,000 or more to
file said expenditures to the City Clerk's Office within 24 hours. In addition, the City
Clerk must post all expenditures over the aforementioned limit to the City website by the
next business day, and all individuals signed up to receive e-notifications from the City
will be notified immediately once the $1,000 established threshold had been crossed.
Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Torna, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
Mayor Spence expressed his disapproval regarding the disclaimer requirements and
stated that said disclaimers were misleading to voters.
A motion was made by Councilmember Toma and seconded by Councilmember
Warshaw to require disclaimers for the top two contributors for independent
expenditures. Motion was carried by a vote of 3-2, with Mayor Spence and Councilman
Wu in opposition.
AYES: Tom a, Warshaw, Johnson
NOES: Wu, Spence
ABSENT: None
15
Tuesday May 15, 2018
CITY COUNCIL REQUESTS FOR REPORTS, STUDIES OR INVESTIGATION
MAYOR MIKE SPENCE
22) Request from Mayor Mike Spence for City Council to Consider Adopting a
Resolution Regarding Prohibiting the Use of Public Money in Pursuit of Higher
Taxes
It is recommended that the City Council discuss whether or not to direct staff to draft a
resolution for adoption regarding prohibiting the use of public money in pursuit of higher
taxes.
Councilmember Toma expressed that using public money to advocate higher taxes is
already prohibited by State and Federal law, but that public money can be used to inform
residents of the impact of any proposed tax measure without advocating a position.
Mayor Spence shared his concerns regarding the use of public money and the possibility
of using information concerning any tax measure to influence voters.
A motion was made by Mayor Spence and seconded by Councilman Wu to draft a
resolution for adoption regarding prohibiting the use of public money in pursuit of higher
taxes. Motion failed to be approved by a vote of 2-3, with Councilrnember Toma,
Councilman Wu, and Mayor Pro Tem Johnson in opposition.
AYES: Wu, Spence
NOES: Toma, Warshaw, Johnson
ABSENT: None
23) Request from Mayor Mike Spence for City Council to Discuss Taking a Formal
Position Opposing SB 174 (Lara) Public Employment: Eligibility
It is recommended that the City Council discuss whether or not to take a formal position
opposing Senate Bill (SB) 174 and direct staff to send a letter to the authors, as well as our
local legislators, if a formal position is taken.
A motion was made by Mayor Spence and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson to take
format position opposing SB 174 (Public Employment: Eligibility) and direct staff to send
a letter to the authors, as well as our local legislators of City's formal position. Motion
was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
16
Tuesday May 15, 2018
COUNCILMEMBER JAMES TOMA
24) Request from Councilmember James Toma for City Council to Discuss Taking a
Formal Position Supporting AB 2538 (Rubio) Municipal Separate Storm Sewer
Systems: Financial Capability Analysis: Pilot Project
It is recommended that the City Council discuss whether or not to take a formal position
supporting Assembly Bill (AB) 2538 and direct staff to send a letter to the authors, as well
as our local legislators, if a formal position is taken.
A motion was made by Councilmember Toma and seconded by Couneilmember Warshaw
to take a formal position and support AB 2538 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems:
Financial Capability Analysis: Pilot Project) and direct staff to send a letter to the authors,
as well as our local legislators of City's position. Motion was carried by a vote of 5-0.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
COUNCILMEMBER COREY WARSHAW
25) Request from Councilmember Corey Warshaw for City Council to Consider
Directing Staff to Research Putting a Tax Measure on a Future Ballot
It is recommended that the City Council discuss whether or not to direct staff to research
putting a tax measure on a future ballot.
Mayor Spence shared that four votes are needed in order to place any measure on the
ballot.
Councilmember Warshaw stated that the City is in dire financial conflict and needs to
implement an increased sales tax to increase revenue.
Councilman Wu expressed concerns regarding the tax increase and stated that further
research must be done before making any rash decisions.
Mayor Pro Tern Johnson stated that further discussions must be made, but agreed that a
tax increase could help alleviate the hole in the City's budget.
Councilinember Toma shared that voting to approve Item No. 25 is only a consideration
and further research must be done to determine whether or not it will be placed on the
ballot.
A motion was made by Councilmember Warshaw and seconded by Councilmember Toma
to discuss whether or not to direct staff to research putting a tax measure on a future
ballot. Due to 4 votes being needed to approve this motion, the motion failed to be
17
Tuesday May 15, 2018
approved by a vote of 3-2, with Councilman Wu and Mayor Spence in opposition.
AYES: Toma, Warshaw, Johnson
NOES: Wu, Spence
ABSENT: None
COUNCILMAN TONY WU
26) Reconsideration of Approval of October 18, 2017 Traffic Committee Minutes
Relating to the installation of Red Curb on Orange Avenue Between Eldred Avenue
and Workman Avenue
It is recommended that the City Council direct staff accordingly.
Councilman Wu expressed concerns regarding the length of the Red Curb located on
Orange Avenue between Eldred Avenue and Workman Avenue. He also stated that this
was unfair to the residents and hindered them from parking in front of their own property.
A motion was made by Councilman Wu and seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson to
reconsider the approval of the October 18, 2017 Traffic Committee Minutes Relating to
the installation of the Red Curb located on Orange Avenue between Eldred Avenue and
Workman Avenue. Motion was carried by a vote of 3-2, with Councilmember Toma and
Councilmember Warshaw in opposition.
AYES: Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: Toma, Warshaw
ABSENT: None
Mayor Pro Tern Johnson shared his approval of Item No. 26 and commented that the red
curb limits parking for residents of the aforementioned neighborhood.
Councilmember Warshaw expressed his disapproval regarding Item No. 26, and stated
that the removal of the Red Curb will cause safety and traffic issues.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tern Johnson and seconded by Councilman Wu to
remove the aforementioned Red Curb, with the exception of the 15 feet around each
corner. Motion was carried by a vote of 3-2, with Councilmember Toma and
Councilmember Warshaw in opposition.
AYES: Wu, Johnson, Spence
NOES: Toma, Warshaw
ABSENT: None
18
Submitted-by:
(
Iosalia A.'13ntl, MMC
Assistant City Clerk
Tuesday May 15, 2018
AB1234 Conference and Meeting Report (verbal, if any)
(In accordance with AB 1234, Councilmembers shall make a brief report or file a written report on any
meeting/event/conference attended at City expense.)
Mayor Spence attended the Los Angeles County City Selection Committee, and reported that Tim
Sandoval, Mayor of Pomona was elected Chairman of said committee.
CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mayor Spence asked if asset forfeiture funds could be used to implement the Ring program within
the City.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Spence adjourned the meeting at 10:11 p.m.
troyd Johrlsori-
Mayor Pro Tern
19