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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-2003 City Council MinutesMINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE 183 NORTH MAIN STREET LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2003 ~:~~x:~:~**~e:r~*~tx~~r~t:~*~t:~*~:~~*:~~:~*~~~t~~t:~~t:~~*:~~:~~**~t:~~t~:~~r~t:~:~*~e~:r~~~t~:~~t~t CALL TO ORDER The Regular City Council Meeting was called to order by Mayor Brinley at 5:00 p.m. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: BUCKLEY, HICKMAN, KELLEY, SCHIFFNER, BRINLEY NONE Also present were: City Manager Watenpaugh, Assistant City Manager Best, City Attorney Leibold, Administrative Services Director Pressey, Community Development Director Brady, Community Services Director Sapp, Lake Operations Manager Kilroy, Information/Communications Manager Dennis, Public Works Manager Payne, Recreation/Tourism Manager Fazzio, Deputy City Clerk Ray and City Clerk/Human Resources Director Kasad. CLOSED SESSION a. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION (Subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9) Elsinore Christian Center, A California Non-Profit Corp. vs. City of Lake Elsinare - Case No. CVO1-4842SVW (RCX).(F:40.1)(X:52.2) b. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION - Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 549569 (1 case). (F:40.1)(X:52.1) PAGE TWO - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 City Attorney Leibold announced the Closed Session discussion items as listed above. THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING WAS RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION AT 5:01 P.M. The Closed Session discussion was completed at 6:45 p.m. RECONVENE PUBLIC SESSION (7:00 P.M.) Mayor Brinley reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting in Public Session at 7:04 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Director of Lake & Aquatic Resources Kilroy. INVOCATION - MOMENT OF SILENCE Mayor Brinley led the meeting in a Moment of Silent Reflection. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: BUCKLEY, HICKMAN, KELLEY, SCHIFFNER, BRINLEY ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Also present were: C-ty Manager Watenpaugh, Assistant City Manager Best, City Attorney Leibold, Administrative Services Director Pressey, Community Development D-rector Brady, Community Services Director Sapp, Lake & PAGE THREE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Aquatic Resources Director Kilroy, Fire Chief Gallegos, Police Chief Walsh, Public Works Manger Payne, City Engineering Manager O'Donnell, Deputy City Clerk Ray, and City Clerk/Human Resources Director Kasad. PRESENTATIONS/CEREMONIALS A. Proclamation - Tracy Empson - National Histary Dav Competition Winner. (F:122.1) Mayar Brinley called Tracy Empson forward for presentation and expressed pride in her accomplishments. She showed a portion of the winning tape entitled Decisions of Conscience. Mayor Brinley indicated that old prejudices were dying because of young students like Tracy. She read and presented the Proclamation to Tracy and recognized her parents for their efforts. Tracy thanked the Council for this recognition and the School District for their support. She presented the Council with California State pins and indicated she could not have done it without the support of the Community. B. Proclamation - Recreation & Parks Month. (F:122.1) Mayor Brinley read and presented the Proclamation to Teri Fazzio. Recreation & Tourism Manager Fazzio accepted the Proclamation, noting her nearly 30 years in the field. She commented on the advantages of recreation programs in providing safe spaces for children and opportunities for senior citizens. She noted the importance of this type of amenity to potential home buyers. Recreation & Tourism Manager Fazzio introduced Maureen Foster-Davis, Community Center Coordinator. Ms. Foster-Davis noted her years of experience in recreation and noted the number of programs available from the Community Center and seven other facilities. She commented on the Recreation Brochure and indicated that it was a great tool for finding out PAGE FOUR - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 what activities were available; and noted that this year it would be published three times instead of two. She introduced Crystal, a youth volunteer, and noted that she had provided 155 hours of volunteer service since September. She expressed pride in her commitment to the Center. Crystal indicated that she had been at the Center for about 1-1/2 years, and noted her enjoyment of working with the kids and staf£ She indicated that volunteering was a good way to meet new people and find new opportunities. She thanked Ms. Foster-Davis and her staff for their efforts. Ms. Foster-Davis presented Crystal with a Certificate of Appreciation for her volunteer efforts. Recreation & Tourism Manager Fazzio introduced Arline Gulbransen, Senior Center Coordinator. Ms. Gulbransen noted honors presented to Senior Citizens and recognized Thelma Ball for her dedication and contributions to the Senior Center. She indicated that Mrs. Ball was instrumental in the growth and development of the Senior Center, and noted her contributions which assisted with making repairs and improvements. She noted that Mrs. Ball had also been recognized by the County of Riverside for her efforts. She presented her with a Certificate of Recognition as the 2003 Outstanding Volunteer of the Year. Mayor Brinley commented on the original formation of the coalition for the RTA, and Mrs. Ball's participation in that program. Mrs. Ball indicated that the Lake Elsinore Senior Center was one of the best in the County, and encouraged others to visit. Center Coordinator Gulbransen noted the participation of a College Intern at the Center, Pauline Sneed, and presented a tape of the activities at the Center, which was prepared as part of her degree program. She highlighted the activities at the Center and encouraged participation. Mayor Brinley noted that Pauline Sneed was her neighbor and showed great enthusiasm in working with the Seniors. PAGE FIVE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Recreation & Tourism Manager Fazzio noted the wide range ages and interests involved in the recreation programs, and thanked all of the volunteer for their efforts. D. Presentation to City Council -Retired Lt. Paula Graver. (F:44.1) Lt. Paula Graver called the Council and City Manager forward for presentation and presented each with an award on behalf of Military Personnel serving worldwide. She further recognized the Council for the Resolution passed in support of the troops on March 25`n Mayor Brinley thanked Ms. Graver for this recognition and noted that the Council was constantly reminded of the efforts in Iraq. She expressed support for the young men and women who were fighting to protect the rights of citizens in the United States. C. Introduction of New City Staff. (F;116.1) City Manager Watenpaugh noted that with the recent staffing changes, it had become a new tradition to introduce the new City employees at City Council Meetings. He introduced new Administrative Services Directar Matt Pressey, who had come from the City of Costa Mesa. He also introduced Lake & Aquatic Resources Director Kilroy, who was promoted to take charge of the Lake, etc. Mr. Kilroy thanked the Council for their support of this promotion and looked forward to working with the community. He introduced Ed North who was recently hired into the Lake Operations Department, and noted that he was the primary person responsible for the Axial Flow Pump and Destratification System. Mr. North thanked the City for the ability to become a full time staff inember. Community Development Director Brady introduced Dana Porche and Perry Curtis. He noted that Mr. Curtis had come from the City of Moreno PAGE SIX - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Valley, and Ms. Porche had been working for the City part-time for a number of years. Both employees thanked the Council for their positions. Mayor Brinley welcomed all of the employees to the City. CLOSED SESSION REPORT City Attorney Leibold noted that two items were discussed in Closed Session as listed on the Agenda. She indicated that with regard to the Elsinore Christian Center litigation, after nearly two years, the Court had issued two arders in fa~ar of the City. She indicated that one was on Constitutional grounds and the second was an analysis on the Constitutionality of the federal RLUPA law. She explained that the Congress did not have the authority to impose the standard as established. She noted that she had received numerous phone calls applauding the finding and requesting copies of the order. She indicated that second item of Anticipated Litigation had no reportable action; but disclosed that the issue involved a threatened Qui Tam action. She advised that the City had retained an auditor to review billings; and the City Council responded to the Auditor's request on the interpretation of relevant agreements, and the auditor was now completing the report. PUBLIC COMMENTS - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS -1 MINUTE Paula Graver, 218 Ellis Street, reminded the community of those military personnel lost since the actual fighting ended. She encouraged continuing support of the troops. CONSENT CALENDAR The following items were pulled from the Consent Calendar for further discussion and consideration: PAGE SEVEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Item Nos. 4, 6 and 9. MOVED BY BUCKLEY, SECONDED BY SCHIFFNER AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO APPROVE THE BALANCE OF THE CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED. l. The following Minutes were received and ordered filed: a. Planning Commission Meeting - June 17, 2003. (F:60.3) 2. Ratified Warrant List for June 30, 2003. (F;123) 3. Received and ordered filed the Investment Report for May, 2003. (F:12.5) 5. Approved Change Order No. 2, in the amount of $13,530 for S.R. 74 Traffic Signals at Collier Avenue/Central Avenue, and Collier Avenue/Riverside Drive for DBX, Inc.; and autharized the City Manager to execute the Change Order. (F:162.4) 7. Adopted Resolution of Intention No. 2003-23, regarding Amendment to Public Employees Retirement System Contract. (F:116.1) RESOLUTION NO. 2003-23 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, STATING INTENTION TO APPROVE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE BOARD OF ADMINISTRATION OF THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEM AND THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE. 8. Approved Purchase Order for the replacement of six Personal Computers from Dell, in the amount of $9.083.36. (F:65.1) PAGE EIGHT - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 10. Approved Professional Services Agreement with Kobata & Associates far the McVicker Canyon Skate Park Landscape Project, in the amount of $1,800.00. (F:68.1)(X:114.14) PUBLIC HEARINGS 21. CR & R, Inc. - Request to Place Delinquent Refuse Bills on the 2003-2004 Tax Roll. (F:163.1)(X:68.1) City Manager Watenpaugh explained that this was an annual action requested by CR & R; and noted that Mr. Fahrion was present to address the item. He noted that bills which are delinquent 120 days, go on the t~ rolls. Mayor Brinley opened the Public Hearing at 7:50 p.m. David Fahrion, representing CR & R, explained that this was an annual action, and noted that in some cases they were delinquent over 12 months. He commented that there were less delinquencies every year, but notices are sent out to the delinquent accounts for correction prior to placement on the rolls. He stressed that if someone had received a notice, there was still an opportunity to resolve the issues. Mayor Brinley asked those persons interested in this item to speak. There were no requests to speak. Councilman Buckley had no comments. Councilman Hickman thanked Mr. Fahrion for attending the meeting, and requested that he provide the 800 number for people to request that their bills be placed on the tax rolls. Mr. Fahrion indicated that the number was (800) 755-8112. Councilman Hickman indicated that he would like to review the possibility of placing all bills on the tax rolls. PAGE NINE - CITY COiTNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Councilwoman Kelley indicated that she had no questions, noting that this was an annual consideration. She questioned the potential for placing all of the bills on the rolls. Mr. Fahrion indicated that if they placed all bills on the tax rolls, there would be no additional cost, but the bills would be paid with their taxes. He noted that they would receive almost six months of service before the first payment would be due. He indicated that he would support that change, if it was what the Council wanted. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that he would be in favor of putting the bills on the tax rolls permanently; and noted that if they were paid that way they could be deducted at income tax time. He indicated that he did not understand the objections to that program. Mayor Brinley noted the last attempt to place the bills on the tax roll, and expressed the difficulty it caused Senior Citizens, as they would prefer to pay quarterly at a lesser amount. She indicated that she had no objection to reviewing the issue, but expressed understanding of the difficulty it caused for some people. Mayor Brinley closed the public hearing at 7:55 p.m. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner requested clarification that the bill would be to the owner, not the occupant. Mr. Fahrion confirmed that it was an obligation of the property owner. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner clarified that it would not be assessed to a renter who might have more difficulty in paying. MOVED BY SCHIFFNER, SECONDED BY KELLEY AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO ADOPT RESQLUTION NO. 2003-24, APPROVING THE PLACEMENT OF DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS ON THE FISCAL YEAR 2003-2004 TAX ROLLS. PAGE TEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 RESOLUTION NO. 2003-24 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE AFFIRMING THE REPORT OF DELINQUENT RESIDENTIAL REFUSE FEES AND DIRECTING THEIl2 COLLECTION ON THE PROPERTY TAX ROLLS. 22. Amendment to Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Chapter 17.17, Concerning Second Dwelling Units; Amendment to Lake Elsinore Municipal Code Chapters 17.19, 17.20, 17.22 and 17.23 to be consistent therewith - Ordinance No. 1101. (F:60.1) (X:104.1) Community Development Directar Brady explained that this was a request for amendment to various sections of the development code with regard to regulation of second dwelling units. He explained that under the current City standards they would have to go through the Conditional Use Permit process; however recent legislation no longer allows that requirement, and there is no longer the ability to review such a project in a public hearing. He noted questions that arose during the Agenda Review, and explained that the City Attorney had drafted an ordinance requiring that one of the units be owner occupied. He indicated that there was also a requirement that they meet parking requirements of one space per bedroom. He also noted that the second units would have to match the existing units on the property. Mayor Brinley opened the public hearing at 8 p.m., asking those persons interested in this item to speak. The following person spoke: Dan Uhlry, 103 Flint Street/Planning Commissioner, indicated that this issue was discussed heavily by the Planning Commission. He noted that his concern was making sure that one unit on the property remained owner occupied, even if the title transferred, in perpetuity. PAGE ELEVEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Community Development Director Brady noted corrections in the Ordinance in Section 17.17.030, which eliminated references to specific zoning designations. Councilwoman Kelley noted that there was a lot of discussion on this item at the Agenda Review and asked the City Attorney about compliance which would remove local control. She also questioned the addition of the conditions as stated by Commissioner Uhlry. City Attorney Leibold confirmed that the conditiom had been included, and would be a recorded covenant on the property. She explained that initially the applicant had to be the owner of the primary unit. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that there were really no options, but the potential of placing requirements such as those discussed by Commissioner LThlry. He noted that with the space and parking requirements a second unit would not be possible in all situations. Councilman Hickman indicated that he was concern with the potential of the City becoming a manufactured housing haven. Councilman Buckley indicated that he had no comments, but commented that there was essentially no option due to the state law. He expressed hopes that the way it had been drafted, the staff's design review should be enough to prevent problems. Mayor Brinley indicated that she had a lot of issues with this item, such as adequate off-street parking, Crime Free Multi-Housing requirements and prevention of buildings which might cause blighted conditions. She further expressed concern for local control, and indicated that the State need to leave cities some options, based on their knowledge of crime and building issues. She indicated that the City's hands were tied, but the City Attorney had assured her that the issues would be addressed in another ordinance. PAGE TWELVE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Mayor Brinley closed the public hearing at 8:10 p.m. MOVED BY SCHIFFNER, SECONDED BY KELLEY TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO.1101, UPON FIRST READING BY TITLE ONLY: ORDINANCE NO. 1101 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CTTY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING AND RESTATING CHAPTER 17.17 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SECOND DWELLING UNITS AND AMENDING CHAPTERS 17.19,17.20, 17.22 AND 17.23 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE TO BE CONSISTENT THEREWITH. UPON THE FOLLOWING ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BUCKLEY, HICKMAN, KELLEY, SCHIFFNER, BRINLEY NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE BUSINESS ITEMS 3 l. Second Reading - Ordinance No. 1100 - Safety Regulations for Lake Elsinore.(F:92.1) Mayor Brinley noted that additional information had been received from Mr Dawson today, and Council would be reviewing it. PAGE THIRTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 MOVED BY BUCKLEY, SECONDED BY HICKMAN TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 1100, UPON SECOND READING BY TTTLE ONLY: ORDINANCE NO. 1100 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA, ADDING, AMENDING AND DELETING DESIGNATED SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 9.96 OF THE LAKE ELSINORE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SAFETY REGULATIONS FOR LAKE ELSINORE. UPON THE FOLLOWING ROLL CALL VOTE: AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: BUCKLEY, HICKMAN, KELLEY, SCHIFFNER, BRINLEY NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR 4. Contract Award for Railroad Canyon Road Improvements - R.J. Noble - $198,681.40. (F:156.2) City Manager Watenpaugh explained that this approval would put in the additional stacking lane on Railroad Canyon Road. He advised that six bids were received, of which, R.J. Noble was the low bidder. He advised that an additional $87,700 budget allocation was needed. He clarified that the project was originally funded by the Pardee Community Facilities District. PAGE FOURTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 Councilman Hickman stressed that this was the third lane west bound on Railroad Canyon Road, which would alleviate some of the problems. Councilman Buckley questioned the timing for these improvements. Community Development Director Brady indicated that construction was scheduled to start in four to six weeks and continue for 40 warking days or about two months. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted the span of bids from $198,000 to $275,000; and questioned if they were all looking at the same set of plans. MOVED BY KELLEY, SECONDED BY SCHIFFNER AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO AWARD THE CONTRACT TO R.J. NOBLE COMPANY, AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE CONTRACT AND APPROVE THE TRANSFER OF $87,700 FROM THE RAILROAD CANYON ROAD IMPROVEMENT FUND TO THIS PROJECT. 6. Stop Sign Controlled Intersection - Half Moon Drive and Grandview Avenue - Resolution No. 2003-22. (F:162.2) City Manager Watenpaugh explained that this recommendation was being made at the request of a citizen, based on the traffic counts for the area. Councilman Buckley inquired how soon the stop signs would go up. Public Works Manager Payne indicated that they should be up in about a week. MOVED BY BUCKLEY, SECONDED BY HICKMAN AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2003-22 AUTHORIZING STOP SIGN CONTROL FOR THE SOUTHBOUND APPROACH ON HALF MOON DRIVE. PAGE FIFTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 RESOLUTION NO. 2003-22 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE, DESIGNATING THE LOCATION OF CERTAIN STOP INTERSECTIONS. 9. Professional Services A~reement - City Park Master Plan. - Kobata & Associates - $7,400.00.(F:68.1)(X:114.2) City Manager Watenpaugh explained that this item was to authorize the City's landscape architect to do conceptual plans for redesign of the City Park area and cul-de-sacing of Library Street, to include the railroad right-of- way, purchased a few years ago. He further explained that it would include the old LETS yard, and be only conceptual plans at this point. Councilman Buckley questioned the additional property to be included. City Manager Watenpaugh clarified the locations of the additional property. Councilman Buckley inquired how soon the conceptual plans would be back. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated they should be back in 60 to 90 days. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner inquired if the conceptual plans would provide enough details for cost estimates. City Manager Watenpaugh confirmed. MOVED BY BUCKLEY, SECONDED BY HICKMAN AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO AUTHORIZE THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH KOBATA AND ASSOCIATES IN THE AMOUNT OF $7,400.00 FOR THE MASTER PLAN OF CITY PARK. THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING WAS RECESSED AT 8:17 P.M. THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECONVENED AT 8:45 P.M. PAGE SIXTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 PUBLIC COMMENTS - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS - 3 MINUTES Bill Tucker, 740 Acacia, commented on the fishing on the Lake and indicated that Lake & Aquatic Resources Director Kilroy and his crew were doing a great job on the removal of bottom feeders. He suggested that more fishing areas were needed around the Lake, and noted that he tries to promote the Lake and the community. He indicated that most people who came to fish had a good time, but needed more space to fish. He noted that there was an interest in allowing night fishing at the campground and indicated that he did not see any potential problems with that proposal. He indicated that he was against "stripers" in the Lake, but indicated that there was a need for more breeders and sport fish. Michael O'Neal, 1403 W. Heald, congratulated the City Attorney on the RLUPA litigation. He noted that he originally intended to speak about the labor market study and the budget deficit; however Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner's views on fundraising, in a recent article drew his attention. He indicated that no one could serve two masters, i.e. constituents and businesses. He questioned the collection of campaign dollars from developers; and suggested that while fundraising was necessary, it was not necessary to use fear and intimidation to further political goals. Jerry Harmatz, 512 N. Spring Street, expressed concern that the HOPE foodbank was considering turning off some of their freezers, due to the size of their electric bill. He indicated that he had offered to pay the next electric bill, and explained that during the summer they could range from $400 to $1,500 per month. He advised that the level pay plan would be $737 per month for each of the twelve months; and indicated that he would cover this June and every June as long as possible. He encouraged others to assist HOPE in paying their electrical costs; and advised that they could contact him at 674-2817. Tim Fleming, 17970 Lakeshore, noted the severe fire alert status on the entire west coast and questioned the City's plans to abate the severe overgrowth. He indicated that both City and private properties needed to be addressed, and noted a situation PAGE SEVENTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY S, 2003 on Lakeshore Drive on July 4`h with a car being dismantled in the high weeds on the beach. He indicated that there was a need for more police protection and patrolling of the fishing areas. He also noted that he was concerned with open fires on the beach. He requested a timely response to getting the weeds abated and removed. Gil Rasmussen, County resident, noted recent discussion of the troops; and suggested that 34 years ago when he lay dying in South Vietnam, he had been saved to rid Lake Elsinore of bad politicians. He indicated that he used good humor in bad taste. He addressed City Manager Watenpaugh regarding the audit, and suggested that there were missing material facts. He noted that he was the plaintiff in the Qui Tam; and addressed the statement that there was "no evidence of fraud", suggesting that there were no documents at all. He indicated that he believed this to be a situation of fraud per se, and suggested that a jury would agree with him. He commented that while the response by the City, said there was no intent to commit fraud, under the Qui Tam, he did not have to prove intent. He suggested that was what made the "whistleblower" statute so powerful. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS City Manager Watenpaugh commented on the following: 1) Responded to Mr. Tucker and expressed support for night fishing, noting that there were a number of possible locations for fishing. 2) Explained to Mr. Fleming that weed abatement was underway and concurred that there was a lot of fuel for fires, noting the fire on July 3`a on Railroad Canyon Road. He commended the Fire Department on an excellent job of controlling the fire. 3) Addressed Mr. Rasmussen and indicated that the City had made no statement on this issue; and there would be no statement until the Auditor comes back and the Council gives direction. PAGE EIGHTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 4) Announced the Building Industry Association Meeting on July 9`t' and noted that they were anticipating the largest group ever, with 119 reservations. 5) Announced the EDC Lunch on Thursday at the Diamond Club. 6) Announced the MSHCP meeting on Friday July 11`t' at 10 a.m. 7) Thanked Tracy Empson, Volunteers and Thelma Ball for their efforts. 8) Thanked Paula Graver for her efforts in support of the military fighting for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. CITY ATTORNEY COMMENTS No Comments. COMMITTEE REPORTS No Reports. CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented on the following: 1) Addressed Mr. Tucker on the fishing areas, and indicated that he was surprised that Mr. Tucker was not aware that most of the land belongs to private people; as all of the City property was now open for fishing. He stressed that there was no way to expand, because the City did not own the land. PAGE NINETEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 2) Addressed Mr. O'Neal indicating that he appreciated the comments. He indicated that he did not normally discuss campaigning from the dais, but he would answer questions. He indicated that Mr. O'Neal's group was running together to oppose the majarity of the Council as it exists. He noted that the majority of the votes (over 200) had been unanimous, with about 9 votes being 3 to 2 with about 12 votes being 4 to 1. He indicated that the slate has said that it will make major changes in the farm of government to give the Councilmen more power; and suggested that attitude created fear in those interested in investing money in the community. He indicated that this was particularly true for those people who provide growth for funding for more police, eta He stressed the Council's effort to increase revenues and provide services. He suggested that the proposal was scaring away future investors, as they are afraid of giving someone more power. He indicated that he worked in a Charter City of 400,000, and expressed concern that most people did not pay enough attention to proposed changes. He advised that he was not in favor of giving the Council more power, as they should make policy decisions, and allow the professionals to run and administer the City. He indicated that the people who wanted to invest money in the community are afraid of the thought of a charter. He suggested that when he reported contributions from those people, it would not be a surprise; as he would take advantage of those concerns. Councilwoman Kelley commented on the following: 1) Congratulated Tracy Empson on her accomplishment, and stressed the magnitude of what she had accomplished, noting the stiff competition at several levels. She noted that Tracy's fourteenth birthday was tomorrow. 2) Indicated that the 7uly 4`h event was wonderful and the fireworks were magnificent. PAGE TWENTY - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 3) Reminded the Community of the outdoor concert series, entitled Music with a View and detailed the concerts which start on August 16`n 4) Thanked the Fire Department for their swift and aggressive action on the fire which almost took her new house. She noted that her home was in the framing stage with no protection. Councilman Hickman commented on the following: 1) Commented on the display of firefighting on July 3Td and expressed appreciation for their efforts. 2) Reiterated HOPE's need for financial assistance to cover electricity. 3) Thanked the Downtown Merchants for the Rod Run. 4) Noted that CR & R offered a program to have bills placed on the tax bill, and indicated that by doing so it was possible to get a tax deduction. He encouraged interested parties to call 800-755-8112. 5) Thanked Paula Graver for the recognition. 6) Noted that crack sealing would be done on I-15 next week and encouraged everyone to drive safely. Councilman Buckley commented on the following: 1) Congratulated Tracy Empson on a nice presentation. 2) Thanked Paula Graver for the recognition. PAGE TWENTY-ONE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 3) Expressed condolences to Lamb's Fellowship Church on the loss of their soon to be completed building. He noted that they were insured and would be rebuilding. He thanked the Fire Department for keeping Canyon Hills from burning. 4) Indicated that he had a nice meeting with some volunteer firefighters and expressed hopes that the City could wark more closely with them. 5) Addressed the Council votes, and indicated that while only a couple dozen votes have been different, they are the ones most important to the future of the City, and reflected basic thoughts on the future of Lake Elsinore. 6) Indicated that it had been a wonderful weekend at the Diamond. Mayor Brinley commented on the following: 1) Indicated that all votes were important in some way. 2) Thanked Fire Chief Gallegos far the response to the fire, noting that there were trucks from all over, and the helicopters were very impressive. She expressed appreciation to all of the fire fighters and volunteers for their efforts, and asked that he pass her appreciation on to them. 3) Indicated that July 4~' was awesome and the fireworks could be seen all over the City. She noted that on the Sth there was also a huge crowd. 4) Commented on how impressed she was with the accomplishments of 14 year old Tracy Empson. She indicated that assured that the future was bright and our children are special people. She further indicated PAGE TWENTY-TWO - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JULY 8, 2003 that there was a lot to be proud of in the community. She offered congratulations to Tracy and her family on a job well done. 5) Indicated that the Military personnel were in everyone's thoughts and prayers; and everyone was praying for their safe homecoming. 6) Announced the following upcoming events: July 2- 14 - Little League All-Star Tournament July 9- BIA Lunch at the Diamond Club July 12 - Household Hazardous Waste Collection and Tire Collection July 17 - Chamber of Commerce Reverse Drawing at the Diamond Club. July 18 - 20 - High School Baseball Showcase at the Diamond 7) Indicated that she knew of a local developer who would be interested in donating money to HOPE for their electricity costs, and advised that she would contact him. ADJOURNMENT MOVED BY KELLEY, SECONDED BY BUCKLEY AND CARRIED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 9:17 P.M. ATTEST: ~ ~~.a.~~JI VICHI KASAD, CMC, CITY CLERK/ HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR