Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-05-2002 City Council Study SessionMINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE 130 SOUTH MAIN STREET LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA TUESDAY, MARCH 5, 2002 ~~~~:~~~~~~~**:~~~~~:~~~:~~*:~~*~,~:~~:~~~:~~:~~*:~~*~~~~~:~~~:~~~~:~~~~~:~:~:~~~*~ CALL TO ORDER The City Council Study Session was called to order by Mayor Kelley at 2:06 p.m. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: BRINLEY, BUCKLEY, KELLEY, SCHIFFNER, HICKMAN ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE ~ ~ Also present were: City:Manager Watenpaugh, Assistant City Manager Best, City Attorney Leibold, Administrative Services Director Boone, Community Development Director Brady, Community Services Director Sapp, Information/Communications Manager Dennis, Planning Manager Villa, Recreation & Tourism Manager Edelbrock, City Treasurer Ferro and City C1erWHuman Resources~Director Kasad. DISCUSSION ITEM Citv Council Goal Settin~ & Policies (F:44.1)(X:1201) City Manager Watenpaugh noted that there had been a request for a Study Session regarding policies, and the Council and RDA had expressed an interest in sitting down to do a little visioning and try to find out the Council's perspective and goals for the community. He explained that the community leaders and staff were looking for a perspective on where the City Council sees the City in the short PAGE TWO - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 term, as well as the longer term to 2025. He suggested that the policies be set for a separate study session and noted the potential that some of the policies would need to be codified. He suggested that this meeting be used as an opportunity to relax and put ideas on the table for consideration, so the staff could gain direction and ideas from the Council. He further suggested that this process would assist staff in focusing into the budget workshops, finding means to accomplish the goals, and gaining more community involvement in the process. He indicated that the intent of this meeting was not to look at details, personalities of money issues, but rather get the vision of the Council. He commented that the Council had not done a lot of goal setting in the past, and stressed that they should put aside thoughts of money and personalities and focus on what they want the community to be and where they want it to go. He suggested that this meeting might lead to other efforts for the community involvement. He provided a list of mandated services the City was obligated to provide. He also provided copies of the existing goals and objectives, which staff had been working on; and has almost completed most of them. ` He detailed the 2001-2002 goals as follows: 1) to improve City services and staffing levels, 2) to improve Fire Protection Services, 3) to complete a Regional Recreation Area Concession Agreement, 4) to increase traffic enforcement and police services through grant funding, 5) to evaluate revenue alternatives, 6) to develop and implement a Trafffic Uniform Mitigation Fee, 7) to increase energy efficiency and conservation measures in City facilities, 8) to secure Proposition 12 and Proposition 13 Grant funds, and 9) to advance Economic Gardening Strategy by increasing business participation. He stressed that those goals were the parameters staff was working within. He expressed hopes that this meeting would produce long term objectives and allow for increased involvement and participation by the community. He noted that staff was very excited to hear the Council's visions for the community. He suggested that the goals should be attractive, attainable, clear, precise and present a sense of purpose for the community. He noted that Information/Communications Manager Dennis would be developing a list of the Council's visions and pursue further discussions. PAGE THREE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Mayor Kelley noted that the Council had never been through this process of brainstorming; however it was frequently done at the CAP Conference with a focus on schools. She stressed that the visions should first be sorted out without thinking of the money factors. Councilwoman Brinley concurred that it was important to have a focus and goals, but stresssed not setting goals that were unattainable. Mayor Kelley indicated the there should be a recreational focus in the community, with the Lake as a pivotal point. Councilman Hickman concurred that there should be a focus on recreation around the lake. Mayor Kelley suggested bicycle trails, volleyball facilities, etc., around a stable lake with reasonable water quality. Councilwoman Brinley stressed the need for communication with the community and suggested that it would be a good idea to hold town hall meetings to get infortnation out to new residents. She commented that town hall meetings could welcome new residents and provide useful information on the City. She noted a recent issue involving a rumor about a lien in her neighborhood and the limited understanding by the new residents. She suggested that town hall meetings would open City Hall to the community, allow for citizen input and make the Council more accessible. Councilman Hickman commented that a positive image, clean city and recreational city were important factors. Mayor Kelley noted that "clean city" should include code enforcement to clean up issues such as signage. Councilwoman Brinley noted the need to clean up the entryways. Councilman Hickman thanked staff for arranging for shopping carts to be picked up. Mayor Kelley noted that it would also be important to focus on aging areas of PAGE FOUR - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 the community. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that under Clean City Image, it was time to look into the older areas and see where they could be assisted. She suggested a rehabilitation program in connection with the NET program. She indicated that the older section was looking really bad near the downtown area. She noted that in some areas there were no curbs or gutters, and houses were boarded up. She suggested that such a program might need to include incentives. She noted a refrigerator sitting outside at Chaney/Sumner, which was accessible to children. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that the only thing that set Lake Elsinore apart from other cities was the Lake; and suggested that the primary concentration should be to develop it into an adequate recreational center. He noted that the Lake had been under control of private individuals, and no one did anything until the City took it over and started working on it. He indicated that it was also important to develop the retail sales base in the City, and while staff was working hard on that issue, there was not much that could be done. He stressed that the biggest push should be toward development of the Lake. Councilman Buckley referred back to the secreational focus, and suggested the inclusion of a Recreation and Tourism Citizens Board to generate ideas for the stadium and special events and provide administrative assistance, if the park tax was approved. He indicated that the Council, as part of a policy decision, should be stating that the back basin is a recreational area, and the primary focus should not be housing. He suggested that the Council should say up-front that it was not interested in housing, but rather recreational uses. He stressed that new development should compliment and not damage recreational uses; and developers should realize that a City that focuses on recreation was not going to sacrifice its long term potential for short term gain. Councilwoman Brinley inquired if he was proposing no houses. Councilman Buckley indicated that there should be wetlands, golf courses, habitat, motocross track, hotel/marina and light industrial, with no large clumps of houses. PAGE FIVE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Councilman Buckley commented that with regard to image the Town Hall Meeting idea was good, but stressed that they were needed in areas other than Tuscany Hills. Councilwoman Brinley clarified that her intent would be that meetings be held where ever there were groups of new residents. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner questioned how best to proceed with this discussion of ideas. Mayor Kelley suggested that Council lay out all of their ideas and see where they are similar and where they are different, and work through the process. Mayor Kelley indicated that there was a need to address transportation and keep up with the population. She further indicated that it was important to rehabilitate the existing transportation avenues. Councilman Hickman suggested going back to the unique aspects by addressing the outflow channel. He indicated that there was a need to develop the I-15 corridor with manufacturing and businesses. He suggested starting with development of the outflow channel, as it would be a better revenue source than the back basin. Councilman Buckley concurred, noting that it would be less expensive initially to get the sales tax started. Mayor Kelley noted that it was important to be sure that the parks were maintained; and the user groups could keep up with their growth and be satisfied with the fields. She stressed the quality of life issues needed for the citizens. Councilman Hickman suggested development of a recreational center along the outflow channel, which would cut down costs and allow for better management of the facilities. Councilwoman Brinley suggested stronger economic programs to promote participation; and commented that there were a lot of small businesses that could use some kind of economic stimulus. She further suggested developing venture partnerships in addition to enhancement of the Economic Gardening Program. PAGE SIX - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Mayor Kelley noted that it was hard to draw restaurants with Water District requirements. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that she was tired of hearing about changing the City's image; and suggested that there was a need to clean up and landscape the City's entry portals. Councilman Hickman suggested the placement of the word "Incentives" under more economic gardening. City Manager Watenpaugh noted past discussions of relationships with other public agencies. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that four or five years ago at a Council orientation, there was discussion of doing quarterly meetings with the Water District, School District, EDC, Rotary, etc. to sit down and have an open discussion and throw out ideas; but noted that it never happened. She indicated that there were a lot of good business groups and suggested meeting with the businesses once a year to have a workshop or town hall meeting for their input on possible stimuli. City Manager Watenpaugh inquired if there was an interest in more public transit. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that there was a need for more public transit and noted that ridership had increased over the Christmas Holidays. She noted that it was needed for kids to get to school, particularly the continuation high school for which ridership was high. City Manager Watenpaugh noted comments that the Council wanted the Stadium more widely marketed to make it a very successful venue. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that would fall under economic stimulus. She concurred that there needed to be more activity at the Stadium. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that all of the concerts to date had been losers. Councilwoman Brinley stressed that there was a need for something to be happening at the Stadium; and suggested that the Council needed to think 'butside the box° and promote the facility more. PAGE SEVEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Mayor Kelley indicated that the neighborhoods needed some focus, as the new development was light on greenery, trees, greenbelts and needed clean up by code enforcement. City Manager Watenpaugh suggested that this might by addressed with improved landscape requirements for new developments. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested going back to the requirements for developers to provide parks. Mayor Kelley suggested greenbelts as well. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested that if the park bond was approved there would be money available to maintain them. City Manager Watenpaugh noted that there was a small group of art supporters, and inquired if cultural arts and quality of life were areas of interest. Councilman Hickman suggested drawing a junior college to the community to bring in those types of activities. Councilwoman Brinley suggested contacting the junior college to explore the possibility of a satellite college. She suggested broadening the City's horizons and sending out letters to discuss the possibilities. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that Mt. San Jacinto College had already moved forward to buy land. Councilwoman Brinley suggested contacting the Board directly, and noted other places where theaters had been converted into classrooms for colleges. She stressed that there were several vacant buildings in the area which could be marketed, such as K-Mart. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that in light of recent changes, there might be an opportunity to pursue more options for the use of the K-Mart building. City Manager Watenpaugh inquired if there was an interest in improved relationships with the media, traffic corridors or senior services. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that funding for the senior center would be coming under heavy discussion, and suggested that there was a need to work more closely with Mr. Buster to address the County residents utilizing the Senior Center. She suggested that the County also had responsibility on water quality, water issues and patrol of the Lake. PAGE EIGHT- STUDY SESSION-MARCH 5, 2002 Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner concurred that the County should share in the total costs of the Lake. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that it was important to have Mr. Buster come in and look at what the City supports, so he could provide County money for maintenance, patrolling of the Lake, etc. She further indicated that he should look at the Community Services offered and go back to parks and sports users, as a lot of County residents use the City's parks. She stressed that Mr. Buster needed to provide assistance because his responsibilities were being covered by Lake Elsinore; but noted that keeping track of County participants in programs was too difficult. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner concurred, but noted it might be difficult to get Mr. Buster to concur. Councilwoman Brinley stressed that Supervisor Buster also represented the City. Councilman Hickman suggested making County residents pay far the services. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner clarified that they were already paying. Councilwoman Brinley suggested a town hall meeting with Mr. Buster invited to address park issues; so he could hear the comments of the residents. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted the shifting of supervisorial districts and suggested that when Mr. Buster was no longer responsible for Murrieta and Temecula, he should be asked to establish a local office. Councilman Buckley indicated that in addition to his small office at the Sheriffs facility, he would be moving into the City in the next few months. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested that with a local office and representative, it would make it easier for residents to contact him. Councilwoman Brinley commented that the City didn't have deep pockets any more, so the County needed to step up and help with the cost. She again suggested a town hall meeting, with City residents and Mr. Buster, to allow for discussion about the Lake and Parks. Mayor Kelley suggested "Quality of Life Issues " as a topic on the list with Libraries, Parks, Water Quality and Cultural Events listed under it. Councilwoman Brinley suggested that it was time to start partnering with the PAGE NINE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 State, County or another City to create economic development growth, as this would allow for sharing of the associated burdens. Councilman Hickman suggested drawing a TGI Fridays to the Stadium. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that there had been talk of building another facility at the Stadium. Mayor Kelley noted that the kitchen at the Stadium was set up for catering, and not a full restaurant. Councilwoman Brinley commented that about five years ago, TMC wanted to bring in TGI Fridays, but they would have had to renovate the facility, which would require a longer lease to defray the costs. City Manager Watenpaugh inquired if there was an interest in development of the Country Club Heights area with upscale homes., Mayor Kelley suggested this might be an area to be addressed by viewshed ordinance. Councilman Buckley concurred and suggested that such an ordinance should cover the whole City to prevent another situation like Lusk Homes. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated - that private enterprises or individuals would have to develop the Country Club Heights area. Councilman Buckley suggested that the City could make it easier to put lots together with an overlay ordinance, etc., and by allowing wastewater treatment on an individual basis. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that since the roads in the area were paved he was aware of two new houses being built. Councilwoman Brinley questioned how may lots would need to be merged to build homes in the area. Community Development Director Brady indicated that it would depend on thelots, as there was really not an"average" lot; but in order to provide a sanitation system it might be necessary to assemble four or five lots. He stressed that they were very small lots. Councilwoman Brinley inquired if it would be better to accomplish development under a specific plan. Community Development Director Brady indicated that was the intent of this meeting to see what the Council's vision for the area would be; and noted that it presented good opportunities for an overlay ordinance or specific plan. He indicated that if it was the Council's goal to have the area developed, staff could provide options on how to accomplish it. Councilwoman Brinley suggested that Country Club Heights could be the elite area of Lake Elsinore, due to its proximity to the Lake. She suggested having staff come back with a possible specific plan. Mayor Pro Tem PAGE TEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Schiffner commented that to make anything work, it would be necessary to have the right of condemnation, as the RDA would have to buy them through condexnnation. He concurred that developing those areas would be a worthwhile goal. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that she would like to see staff come back with a proposal for that area by the end of this year or the first of next year; and noted the special requirements for the area, and the difficulty with sewer service and odd shaped lots. Councilman Buckley indicated that he did not envision a specific plan, as he believed it would be ill served. He explained that he really saw the area as a place for people to come in and build their dream homes, and stressed the uniqueness of the area and the potential for individuality of homes. He indicated that sewer was not necessary in that area and noted that a specific plan for the area should not cost the City a dime. City Manager Watenpaugh noted that a variety of ideas had been listed, but indicated that staff was looking for a vision of the majority of the Council. He explained that while the issues and suggestions were legitimate, if the bottom line was that they wanted to see the area developed, staff could bring back options. Councilwoman Brinley noted the special problems of the area, and suggested if it was specifically planned, the developer would have to deal with the issues. Community Development Director Brady indicated that he would not see a merchant developer coming in to develop the area, and noted the discussion of custom homes. He fiirther indicated that he concurred with custom homes far the area and staff could develop standards for whatever the Council wanted in the area. Councilwoman Brinley stressed the need for am overlay program in the area. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that he would like to see the area developed with custom homes, but it was up to the staff to look at facilitating that kind of development. Mayor Kelley indicated that the City was lacking quality apartments buildings to serve the growing population. She noted that some of the existing apartments have fallen into disrepair. City Manager Watenpaugh suggested that it might be a goal to provide more multi-family and affordable housing. PAGE ELEVEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 COUNCILMAN BUCKLEY LEFT THE MEETING AT 2:56 P.M. Recreation & Tourism Manager indicated that the City was lacking activities for Elementary and Middle School Students, and stressed the need for after school programs. She noted the number of homes in which both parents work and there was nothing for the kids to do. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that there was a need for a better system of transportation around the community. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that the bus was currently going to the Community Center about every 30 minutes, and some of the kids were using it. She commented that she was also working with RTA to address transportation to the Skatepark. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested that the use of the smaller buses was more effective and could provide better service for the kids. Recreation & Tourism Manager Edelbrock noted that when staff inet with United Way to assess local needs, one issue was affordable health care in the City, as many people were going out of town for medical treatment. Councilman Hickman suggested making the K-Mart building into a medical area. City Manager Watenpaugh noted that part of the issue with that proposal was that it would be getting rid of retail facilities for non-revenue producing operations. Councilwoman Brinley concurred with the need for a health center and the importance of revitalizing areas that were not doing well. She suggested using the old Sav-on facility for an Urgent Care facility, noting that it would help draw walk-in traffic to retail centers. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that more facilities would come with additional rooftops and increased demand. Councilwoman Brinley concurred that this was true to a point, but expressed concern with the waiting time for health care. City Treasurer Ferro concurred that rooftops were a problem for drawing new facilities, and noted that a friend of his does medical development and was looking in Lake Elsinore. He indicated that his friend would not look at Sav-on, but would look in the vicinity of Railroad Canyon Road and Canyon Hills Drive, PAGE TWELVE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 because it would draw from Canyon Hills, Tuscany Hills and Canyon Lake. He explained that the issue was having enough people with medical plans in the vicinity; but noted that there was already low cost medical offices everywhere. COUNCILMAN BUCKLEY RETURNED TO THE MEETING AT 3:04 P.M. City Treasurer Ferro explained that individual doctors, generally would not build their own medical facilities. Recreation & Tourism Manager Edelbrock stressed the need far HMO facilities in the Community, as there were no services for normal families. City Treasurer Ferro stressed the number needed to draw facilities and stressed the interest in placing them in growth areas like Canyon Hills. Councilwoman Brinley inquired if the preference would be to build businesses out of the downtown area. City Treasurer Ferro supported business in downtown, but indicated that there was no reason for a medical building downtown. Mayor Kelley noted that medical facilities were generally found in clusters. Councilman Hickman questioned the airport and what could be done around it. Mayor Kelley commented that it was within the back basin recreation area. City Manager Watenpaugh noted that the Council's past direction was to retain the airport. City Attorney Leibold concurred and noted that the direction included limited growth and changes. City Manager Watenpaugh commented that it was up to the Council to provide xhe vision, but assumed that the priorities included saving the air thermals and activities, which could all be worked into the overall recreation master plan. Councilman Hickman suggested moving the post office downtown, across from the Cultural Center, noting that it was outgrowing its current location, and suggesting that downtown was a better location. Councilwoman Brinley concurred, noting that this idea had been kicked around. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that there were generally long lines at the post office, but many times only one or two counters were staffed and operating. PAGE THIl2TEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Councilman Hickman inquired what the City's strongest industry was. Mayor Kelley indicated that it was recreation, noting businesses such as Mastercraft. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested encouraging someone to build a hotel in town, because attracting people to the community does no good, if there is no place for them to stay. Councilman Hickman noted that development of the outflow channel would stimulate tourism. Assistant City Manager Best indicated that there were a variety of clusters of businesses, including tool and dye, technology companies, aerospace related businesses, woodworking businesses, companies associated with auto parts and after market accessories. Councilman Hickman inquired if the I-15 corridor was reserved for auto centers. City Manager Watenpaugh noted that.the zoning was in place, and staff would be meeting with Mr. Kennedy again next week. He distributed a client list of the economic gardening efforts. Assistant City Manager Best suggested that another element to consider was the growth of technology, which will continue to change; and stressed the importance of making sure the proper infrastructure was in the community. Councilman Hickman suggested establishing an area for computer businesses and marketing it to that industry; and stressed the need for high-tech businesses along the freeway. He suggested picking one or two industries for focused efforts. Councilwoman Brinley noted the list of economic gardening clients and suggested that there were quite a few which could be targeted to open up the job market and create more business. Councilman Hickman noted that Labeda was a large employer and suggested working with them to help them expand and do marketing. Councilwoman Brinley inquired how International Auto Crafters was doing. Staff indicated that they were doing very well and looking at expansion and increased marketing. Councilwoman Brinley concurred with the need to partner to bring in more of a specific type of business into the community and creating a job base. Assistant City Manager Best suggested the goal of building a diversified job pool. PAGE FOURTEEN - STUDY BESSION- MARCH 5, 2002 Community Development Director Brady inquired with regard to the Council's vision 18-20 years out and whether it was desirable to be considered a commuter town, or to have higher paid jobs and higher end housing. Councilwoman Brinely noted the traffic problems on the 91 freeway and indicated that until there was adequate rapid transit, it was important to pursue less travel time to work. Mayar Kelley commented on the proposed freeway from Orange County to somewhere near Lake Elsinore. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that the connector to Orange County might be something that will happen in the future, however the BIA had put the County on the spot and questioned how the discussion started. He explained that there was limited support for the road. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that she would like to create more businesses and the related housing to support them. Councilman Hickman suggested looking to China for Economic Development, and noted that high tech was available from China. City Treasurer Ferro noted that he had been working with connections to China, but there was limited interest. He addressed high tech, nothing that it meant many things, but expressed concern with becoming a single industry town that would someday go out of operation. He noted the areas that have been littered with empty towns, and stressed that no one could predict 20 years out. He suggested that the model City in his mind was Irvine, because they were totally diversified. He suggested not limiting the industries being sought, but instead draw cores in several areas to balance the up and down trends in the industries. Councilwoman Brinley concurred with the need for diversification, and stressed the need to change from a bedroom town to one with jobs that will help to relieve traffic problems. Councilman Hickman suggested establishing an international free trade zone. City Treasurer Ferro indicated that this was a touchy issues, and stressed the need to work with State and Federal agencies to facilitate such a zone. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that there were a lot of good ideas presented, but many of them were out of the City's realm. He indicated that he would like to see someone come up with a way to achieve the goals. PAGE FIFTEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 City Manager Watenpaugh reiterated that it was the intent of this meeting to find out the Council's vision of the community. He explained that staff could bring a lot of ideas, but before allocating resources, it was necessary to know the Council's priorities. He noted that staff had worked with the international trade zone in the past, and indicated that staff could bring a report. Mayor Kelley requested that each Councilmember provide their vision for the City's basic reality. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that her wish list would be better public service, police and fire; improved communication with the community and increased input; control of the crime element and increase raids to clean up problems; recreational services and after school programs, and economic development. She also indicated that she would like the RDA to use the available resources she learned of in Monterey, and suggested that the RDA did not need a lot of money, but had the tools and could serve as a conduit. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that his most important issues were to develop water related recreation and tourist housing and lake related issues. He stressed that the Lake was the City's unique element that other cities did not have; and reiterated that it was the most important element. He also supported increased economic development. Councilman Buckley indicated that he would like to see community involvement through a recreation/tourism advisory board, a public safety advisory board, and a RDA and finance board. He advised that with regard to land use issues, he would like to see continued support far growth of the forest, larger lot sizes, more open and green spaces, a policy decision to set aside the back basin for recreation, a Country Club Heights overlay, a viewshed ordinance, assistance with remodeling of homes downtown, a temporary fix for the traffic on Railroad Canyon Road, a citywide paving schedule, and a new lake management compact involving all parties and the stakeholders. PAGE SIXTEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that although money was not being discussed, he recently heard an estimate that to put 2-1/2 feet of water in the Lake and maintain it for one year would cost $10 million. City Manager Watenpaugh confirmed, noting that the City had received a letter this morning on the volume required and cost to maintain it. He noted that he would provide the Council with copies of that letter, and that the matter would probably be discussed in relationship to the litigation at the next Council meeting. Councilman Hickman indicated that he would like a positive image, clean city, with an emphasis on recreation and tourism. He expressed hopes that the existing facilities like baseball fields could be used to sponsor tournaments, like the High School World Series. He also expressed support for development of the outflow channel, the I-15 corridor and seeking the County's fair share of costs. Councilwoman Brinley supported getting fair dollars from the County. Councilman Hickman commented that if the City was a recreational-tourist center, people would bring in their money and leave, and stressed that the City should utilize its facilities for sports tournaments. He indicated that there was also a need for something for the teenagers to do after school. Mayor Kelley noted that this issue was discussed every year at the CAP Conference. Mayor Kelley indicated that she would envision the basic provision of mandated services; improving the lake edge and its recreational aspects; economic development; code enforcement to clean up neighborhoods, business districts and signage; new development and more open space and trees; and communication with the community. She noted that the town hall meetings fell by the wayside, but were necessary. Councilman Hickman suggested hosting a community forum with the businesses to see what they really want and what types of incentives would be helpful. Councilwoman Brinley suggested working with the older neighborhoods to help clean up the downtown areas, particularly the two portal entries to the area. PAGE SEVENTEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Councilman Buckley suggested the use of condemnation for houses which were consistent problems, such as areas on Graham Street. He noted concerns for abatement of boarded up houses. He inquired if abatement started over when properties were sold. Mayor Kelley clarified the noticing requirements. City Attorney Leibold inquired if the Council would prefer more of an incentive program or carrying a big stick, or a combination of both. Councilman Buckley suggested enforcement, abatement and humiliation, noting that humiliation is free. He explained that it was public record who owned a particular property and the City could make it clear who the problem owners were. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that if it was a goal or objective to do so, staff would bring back options. Councilman Buckley suggested reading a list of names, addresses and phone numbers at Council meetings, so others could call them where they live to complain, and the property owners would get tired of dealing with the issues. There was general Council discussion of the problems of enforcement and abatement and the related legal ramifications. Assistant City Manager Best addressed the elements of communication with the public and inquired if there was an intent to help develop more community leaders by increasing participation. Councilwoman Brinley stressed better communication with the public. Mayor Kelley questioned if the intent was just to keep the public informed. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner questioned further discussion of the issues presented. City Manager Watenpaugh explained that the intent was to group the issues discussed. Councilman Hickman stressed the importance of community communications; and suggested establishing a committee to police the City and bring issues to the Council. He reiterated the need for more committees to allow for citizen feedback. Mayor Kelley inquired if abatement was one of Councilman Buckley's public safety issues. PAGE EIGHTEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 Councilman Buckley indicated that with regard to public safety there should be a permanent advisory board. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted since they were discussing items without reference to cost, there would ultimately be things that could not be done, and those would need to be weeded out. Mayor Kelley noted that a lot of the suggestions take staff time but would not be terribly costly. She suggested that a lot of them could be implemented pretty easily. Councilman Buckley suggested a welcoming packet for new Lake Elsinore residents, including information on community issues, Mello-Roos, etc. He suggested that it could be provided through the real estate agents and at model home offices. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that an extensive packet was already being prepared for the realtors. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that as the City builds out, it would not hurt to hold town hall meetings to introducae the new residents to the City and its processes. Mayor Kelley inquired if this process were implemented immediately, where it should start. Councilwoman Brinley suggested starting with Granite Homes since it was being finished and there were only two homes remaining for sale. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that town hall meetings were great, but so few people attended the initial ones, the others were not held. Councilwoman Brinley indicated that the Crranite area would draw a lot of people. Councilman Hickman noted that Tuscany Hills had a welcoming committee, and suggested that the City send a packet to each new resident telling them about the permit processes, eta Councilwoman Brinley indicated that she would like to let the new residents know that the Council was accessible. She suggested including staff in those meetings to respond to questions; and stressed that town hall meetings were effective. Assistant City Manager Best noted that town hall meetings generally had a very forxnal format and suggested other types of community participation like coffees in various neighborhoods, which would be more informal. City Treasurer Ferro concurred with the coffee approach noting that they might be easier to schedule. Councilwoman Brinley expressed PAGE NINETEEN - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 agreement with the newsletter idea to get the information out. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner suggested that the City's Communications Manager could set up meetings and get the word out. Councilman Hickman reiterated that there should be a welcome letter. Mayor Kelley noted that staff would use the issues presented to formulate goals and objectives. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that staff would roll the comments into priorities and visions statements and look at ways to implement the changes for Council consideration. Mayor Kelley noted that the ne~ step was to work on the budget and address policy. City Manager Watenpaugh suggested that there might be a need to look at the whole policy manual and consider codifying some of the policies. He suggested scheduling a series of study sessions, noting that the goal setting session for the RDA and discussion of LEAF was already scheduled for Thursday. He further suggested a separate study session on policies. City Manager Watenpaugh inquired about the best timing for study sessions. Mayor Kelley noted that she would be back to school on the 25~' of March, and Thursdays were not good. It was determined that alternate Tuesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. would be the best timing for Study Session. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that he would put together a list of topics and discuss the timing with the Mayor and Redevelopment Agency Chair. He thanked the Council far their input and indicated that staff would put it together and work on options. Mayor Kelley noted that a lot of good ideas were presented for implementation which were not costly. City Manager Watenpaugh reiterated that staff would work on a mission statement and goals to share with the Council and community. Councilman Buckley indicated that he would not approve of paying a dime for a professional facilitator. This meeting resulted in the following list of goals and issues to be addressed: PAGE TWENTY - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • Recreational Focus • Lake as pivot point • Levee as recreational focus • Amenities azound lake • Stadium: enhance activities/use • Create Recreation/Tourism boazd (citizen involvement) • Advise on Stadium options • Park planning assistance if pazk tax is passed • Town Halls (broad approach) • Rumor control • Lien, t~es, etc. • New residents/outreach • Introduce city by going into community • Proactive vs. reactive approach • Council recognition • Back basin as recreational land use (policy) • Ensure compatibility of recreation and development (e.g., hang gliding, motocross, air sports) • City Image • Keeping a Clean city • Code Enfarcement attention • Trash, other violations • Recreation spot • Positive • Portals • Attention on old parts of City • NET • Rehabilitation activities • Board-ups • Lack of curbs or sidewalks • We're Unique because of Lake • Recreation opporhxnities • Don't compromise this distinction • Outflow channel trail/pedestrian amenities • Transportation Needs • Just keeping up with demand • Maintenancehestoration • I/15 corridor significant PAGE TWENTY-ONE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • Expand public transportation around town • Parks • Demand vs. adequate maintenance . Equity among users: County benefits from our facilities • Park help from County • Quality of Life for residents • Quality of Life issues • Parks • Libraries • Water Quality in Lake • Cultural Events • Viewshed Ordinance Protection • Economic Programs • Need mare • Proactive • Incentives for businesses • Sma11 and large business opportunities • Economic Gardening promotion • Restaurant "hook up" costs (water & sewer) high • Reducing stadium "drag" on City • Creative solutions for stadium ops • Sell stadium • Attract more high quality restaurants • International Trade Zone opportunities • Outside Agency Relations • Improving cooperative efforts • Cultivating joint meetings/goals with neighboring agencies • Partnering (City can't do it alone) • Meet with Supervisor Buster/improve relationship • Neighborhoods • Increased landscape requirements for new development • Provision of parks • Uses of idle land for pazks • Cultural Arts • Junior College attractto area • Contact Board of Trustees (MSJC) • Use of vacant facilities (theater) • Use of K-mart facility • Media relations • Senior Services PAGE TWENTY-TWO - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • Future funding sources • County support (increase share) • Work with Supervisor Buster • Water Quality/Lake Benefit • County support/benefit • Supervisor Buster • County Supervisor issues • Boundary change impacts • Support far City programs/facilities that benefit County • Country Club Heights Development • Incentives for individual development • Views • Overlay District to pay for special considerations (home wastewater treatment technology vs. sanitary sewer system cost) • Lot consolidation • Type of development preferred? Individual owners vs. "developer projects" • Once considered the "elite" location in town • Condemnation to assemble lots (politicat will to do) • Specific Plan for this area (consider eactraordinary conditions), or not? • Custom housing "best fit" with land topography • Housing • AfFordability • Multi-family • Kids as Constituents • Need to bring after-school programs/services back to higher service levels of the past • After-school programs highly needed • Health Care Services • Attract more medical care providers • Needs assessment shows high demand • Riverside Dr., Grape St., RR Cyn. Rd. as possible locations • Driven by population/clusters • Lack of HMO physicians in proximity to pop. • General Plan Update • Overdue • Fits changing assuxnptions about habitaUland use, community development • Airport • Compatible with back basin use • Preserve airport PAGE TWENTY-TI3REE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • LE Post Office • Adequate for future? • Possible locations for expansion • Hotels/Lodging Needs • Underserved • New & Existing Technologies • Wireless Internet • Aerospace/defense • Tooling • Foamworks/Totally Themed segment • Mfr • Electronics • Afrermarket auto parts . Attracting computer and high tech industries •"pick an industry" to tazget for attraction • Helping Labeda-Int'1 ties (County) • International autocrafters (expansion imminent) has ops in Mo Valley • Diversified job/business base • Irvine model • Auto Center Growth • I-15 corridor preferred development • Getting more dealerships in town • Commuter Issues • LE as "bedroom" community • Attracting jobs to area/good planning • 91 as "pazking loY' • Support future fwy corridor nearby • How to Accomplish the Above? • Priorities: Brinley • Better public service • Helping the older parts of town/neighborhoods • Attractive Portals • Communicating better with community • Explain City requirements/services • Town Hall meetings • Outreach • More crime sweeps • Stay on top of recreation programs • Economic development as a priority • RDA resources PAGE TWENTY-FOUR - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • Priorities: Schiffner • Develop water related recreation • Puts us ahead of other Cities • Economic development • Priorities: Buckley • Recreation/Tourism Boazd • Public Safety • Public Safety Advisory Board • Appointed reps from community groups • Solve recurring problems (buildings, boazd ups, renovations) w/ incentive approaches • Publicize owners of boazd-ups as a disincentive to blight • Review Codes to see how far we can "push" • RDA/Finance Board • Land Use Issues • Encouraging growth • Larger lot sizes • Green and open space • Overlay Dist: County Club Hts • Viewshed Ordinance • Assisting downtown remodel • Services • New homeowner welcome kit • City produced pamphlets on CFD and other topics • Printed info for realtors, brokers, sales offices • Traffic • RR Cyn Rd improvements • Citywide paving management schedule • New Lake Management Compact • Stakeholders involved including County • Costs, responsibilities, benefits .($10 million est. cost to maintain lake @ 1240') • Priorities: Hickman • Positive Image • Neighborhood outreach/participation (committees) • Network with Businesses to find out what they want • Clean City a priority • Teen recreation/activities • Recreation/Tourism • Increase use of existing facilities • Bring Tournaments to area PAGE TWENTY-FIVE - STUDY SESSION - MARCH 5, 2002 • Attract outside users • Outflow amenities • I-15 corridor opportunities • Encourage County to pay fair share • Priorities: Mayor • Lake edge improvement • Recreational plan for lake • Econ Dev. • Code Enforcement • Keep neighborhoods clean • Signage enforcement • New development • More open space • Landscape requirements • Communication w/ Community • Town Halls • Communication Strategies • Newsletter, web, speakers bureau, neighborhood meetings, committees • Outreach efforts • Coffees • Town Halls • Multiple locations . Target new neighborhoods • Tie in with existing welcoming committees (HOA) • Communication Messages • City Hall is accessible • Permit requirements ADJOURNMENT The City Council Study Session was adjourned at 3:55 p.m. A~'I'EST: 2~~:~~8 ~ ~ r'I~KI KASAL'; CMC, CITY CLERK Cl'i'Y ~F LAKE ELSINORE '/~t~/fu?. ~i~ 3 KELLEY, MAYOR OF LAKE ELSINORE