HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-14-2002 City Council MinutesMINUTES
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE
183 NORTH MAIN STREET
LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA
TUESDAY, MAY 14, 2002
~~:~:~~~~:~~*:~~~~~*~~~:~~**~~:~~:~~~:~~*~*~~~~*~*:~~*~~*~***~**~~~**~~~**~
CALL TO ORDER
The Regular City Council Meeting was called to order by,Mayor Kelley at 7:01
p.m.
CLOSED SESSION
None.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Information/Communications Manager
Dennis.
INVOCATION
The Invocation was provided by Pastor Phillip Ruppe, representing Elsinore First
Assembly of God Church.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: COiTNCILMEMBERS: BUCKLEY, HICKMAN,
SCHIFFNER, KELLEY
ABSEN~: COUNCILMEMB~RS: BRINLEY
Also present were: Assistant City Manager Best, City Attorney Leibold,
Administrative Services Director Boone, Community Development Director
Brady, Police Lieutenant Snodgrass, Information/Communications Manager
PAGE TWO - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
Dennis, Recreation/Tourism Manager Edelbrock, Public Works Manager
Payne City Treasurer Ferro and City C1erWHuman Resources Director
Kasad.
PRESENTATIONS
A. Proclamation - Lake Elsinore Women's Club. (F:122.1)
Mayor Kelley noted that this was a repeat of the presentation at the last
meeting, and explained that the microphone had not been working and the
presentation could not be heard. She read and presented the Proclamation to
Sonja Matthies, who expressed thanks for this recognition and expressed
appreciation for support from the City.
B. Presentation - Business of the Ouarter - Winter, 2002. (F:56.1)
This presentation was postponed.
C. Proclamation - Mental Health Month. (F:122.1)
Mayor Kelley read and presented the Mental Health Month Proclamation to
a representative of the Department of Mental Health. The representative
accepted the proclamation and stressed the availability of information to
assist families with mental health issues. She highlighted her personal
experience with the Department of Mental Health and noted the availability
of speakers to address related topics for area organizations.
D. Proclamation - Veteran's Appreciation Month. (F:122.1)
Mayor Kelley read and presented the Veteran's Appreciation Month
Proclamation to Rod Johnson, and noted the qualifications and skills
provided by area Veterans. Mr. Johnson thanked the Council for this
recognition.
PAGE THREE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
E. Proclamation - Public Works Week. (F:122.1)
Mayor Kelley introduced Public Works Manager Payne for presentation.
Mr. Payne showed a PowerPoint presentation on the tasks performed by the
Public Works Staff as they relate to natural resources, lake, open space,
transportation, planning, facility maintenance and safety issues. He
stressed the quality of life issues and noted Public Works Week, May 20-24,
2002, inviting the public to visit the Public Works Yard. He commented
that information was also available on the City website. Mayor Kelley read
and presented the Proclamation recognizing Public Works Week to Mr.
Payne on behalf of the Public Works Department.
F. Proclamation - Older Americans Month. (F:122.1)
Mayor Kelley recognized Senior Center Coordinator Gulbranson, and two
senior representatives, Sally Coleman and Thelma Ball. Mayor Kelley read
and presented the Older Americans Month Proclamation. Senior Center
Coordinator Gulbranson detailed the involvement of Ms. Coleman and Ms.
Ball at the Senior Center and stressed their dedication to the Center. Ms.
Gulbransen detailed the Senior Center operations and accomplishments
including the new Computer Lab, the nutrition program and other activities.
She invited the public to visit the Center to see what they provide.
G. Proclamation - Neighborhood Pride Awards. (F:122.1)
Recreation & Tourism Manager Edelbrock noted the celebration of the
winners of the Neighborhood Pride Awards and thanked the judges
including Rod Kihara, Charlotte Fox and Cheryl Law. She detailed the
sponsors including the Do It Center and Temecula Pipe & Supply. Mary
Brown, representing EVMWD, noted that they were invited to participate in
this program seven years ago to recognize the dedication of homeowners to
set high standards for their landscaping. She detailed the categories of
judging including hardscape, mixed use and water efficient.
PAGE F'OUR - CITY COiJNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14; 2002
Ms. Brown indicated that EVMWD was proud to co-sponsor this program
with the City. She thanked the judges and congratulated the winners, noting
that there were 15 homes nominated in all areas of the City. Recreation &
Tourism Manager Edelbrock presented the following awards:
ls` Place - Steve & Shari Hernandez at 3433 Apple Blossom Lane
2"a place - Troy Bekker at 29200 Northpoint Street
3rd Place - Albert & Linda Compos at 228 South Spring Street
Grand Prize - Lisa & Michael Gresham at 15011 Vista View
She noted that the contest would be held again ne~ year and suggested that
everyone start thinking about their yards and possible nominees.
H. Presentation - Chamber of.Commerce Update. (F:108.4)
Chris McColley, Executive Director, indicated that she had received
requests from their business members that she address the anonymous flyers
being distributed. She advised that the Chamber's position was that the
flyers had no credibility or rnerit. She invited those with valid issues to
contact the Chamber and discuss their matters of concern. She encouraged
businesses to use common sense in dealing with the circumstances. She
noted that the Chamber was in a state of transition trying to provide better
benefits and services to the community. She noted that they were looking at
credit union benefits, group health insurance, corporate rates for
entertainment venues, member to member discount program, and resource
directory. She stressed the Chamber's interest in assisting the business
community in whatever way they could. She advised that they currently had
a data base of 1,500 members and anticipated expanding to over 3,000 in
the future. She further advised that they were undergoing a newsletter
redesign and were in negotiations with the Press Enterprise for an all color
format; with the first issue to appear in July. She noted their Lake Elsinore
Magazine, which is published twice a year, with 20,000 copies distributed
PAGE FIVE - CITY COLTNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
and indicated that it would be undergoing a name change. She further
noted that the Chamber won the 2002 Golden Web Award for website
excellence and commended Chamber President Jack McColley for this
accomplishment; and noted that the site receiyed an average of 200,000 hits
per month. She indicated that the Chamber participated on the Government
Action Committee with members of the Temecula and Murrieta Chambers
of Commerce and the City of Lake Elsinore. She advised that they had
started a new Business of the Month Program as part of the monthly EDC
Lunch, with the businesses being featured in the newsletter, magazine and
on Froggy Radio. She congratulated the following Businesses of the
Month: February - CDM Group, Inc.; March - NearCal; April - New Vision
Financial Credit Union; May - Lake Elsinore Storm. She detailed the
Student of the Month lunch and the upcoming Scholarship Recognition
Night in which $6,000 in awards would be presented to High School
Students. She noted that this was the only Chamber in Southwest Riverside
County to accomplish this. She noted the business mixers on the 4th
Thursday of every month, but noted that due to the Memorial Day Holiday,
the mixer would be held on May 30r'' at EVMWD. She advised that EDC
Committee lunches were held the 2°d Thursday at the Diamond Club and
encouraged interested parties to contact the Chamber Office. She noted an
upcoming fundraising event, the First Annual Reverse Drawing, to be held
on July 18`~' at the Diamond Club, with tickets being $100 for two people.
She advised that the Business Expo had been rescheduled to a Saturday in
September at the Walmart Center, sponsored by NearCal and Froggy Radio.
She explained that the event would include a business to business
networking breakfast followed by the Business Expo; and encouraged
participation. She noted the following upcoming events: EDC 5`~'
. Anniversary on September 5'~'; and Mini Grand Prix on October 12'i'.
CLOSEI2 S~SSION REl'ORT
None.
PAGE SIX - CITY COiTNCIL MINUTES`- MAY 14, 2002
PUBLIC COMMENTS - AGENDIZED ITEMS
No Comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
The following item was pulled from the Consent Calendar for further discussion
and consideration:
Item No. 4.
MOVED BY BUCKLEY, SECONDED BY SCHIFFNER AND CARRIED BY
UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THOSE PRESENT TO APPROVE THE
BALANCE OF THE CONSENT CALENDAR AS PRESENTED. .
1. The following Minutes were approved:
a. Special City Council Meeting - April 16, 2002. (F:44.4)
b. City Council/Redevelopment Agency Study Session - Apri123, 2002.
c. Regular City Council Meeting - April 23, 2002.
The following Minutes were received and ordered filed:
d. Planning Commission Meeting - April 17, 2002. (F:603)
2. Ratified Warrant List for Apri130, 2002. (F:123)
3. Rejected and referred to Claims Administrator the Claim Against the City
submitted on behalf of Sheila Laughlin & Danny Almodovar (CL #2002-
09). (F:52.2)
5. Approved Application by the Lake Elsinore Police Department for funds
from the Juvenile Accountability Incentive Block Grant. (F:84.8)
PAGE SEVEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 20, 2002
PUBLIC HEARING
None.
BUSINESS ITEMS
31. School Resource Officer/Grant. (F:127.2)(X:142.1)
Assistant City Manager Best e~lained this item, and noted that additional
details had been obtained late this afternoon. She explained that the City
Council and the Lake Elsinore Unified School District had held a Study
Session on issues of mutual concern, and the School Board had requested
consideration of funding a Resource Officer through a matching fund to the
grant. She detailed the grant and the required matching dollars and noted
that it was learned this afternoon that the grant would require an additional
year of funding. She detailed the grant and matching dollars required and
noted that the additional allocation would be $94,000 to $95,000; with the
total potential cost being $232,000 to $235,000. She noted that the School
District has funded two officers and applied for an additional three officers
in the coming year; so their funding will be for five officers to be used to
reach all high school and middle school campuses and elementary students
where possible. She explained that the agreement needs to be with the
School Board, so an MOU would be processed if the Council so chooses.
, She noted that Rick Wallace was present on behalf of the School District to
respond to questions. '
Councilman Hickman asked if the City had done this before. Assistant City
Manager Best indicated that it had not been done before. Councilman
Hickman inquired if the School District had a shortfall and requested
assistance. Assistant City Manager Best indicated that they were looking to
provide additional services, by providing five officers themselves and
looking to partner with the City for one more.
PAGE EIGHT - CYTY COITNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
Councilman Buckley noted that in reading the staff report, there was no
mention of urgency. Assistant City Manager Best indicated that the
deadline was actually May 3`d. Councilman Buckley commented that this
was looking at about $260,000 to $270,000 for four years, and inquired if
the District had offered to split the costs. Assistant City Manager Best
indicated that was not the form of the request. Councilman Buckley
indicated that he would rather have the officers on the street.
Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that the total cost was not known because it
would require a vehicle for the officer and other equipment. Assistant City
Manager Best confirmed that those costs were not certain at this time.
Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented that by applying the City would
receive about $125,000 of outside money with the City being obligated for
$230,000 to $260,000. He indicated that while this program might sound
good, and he would hate to not support something that will assist the School
District and the kids; but he could think of a number of other places to
spend the money within the City. He stressed that the City had a smaller
budget than the District. Assistant City Manager Best indicated that if the
Council choose to do so, they could have staff investigate the funds for the
next fiscal year. Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner indicated that he would support
having staff investigate the funds further.
Mayor Kelley indicated that this was a worthwhile program to provide a
safe environment for the children; but commented that for the dollars she
would rather put an officer on the street. She requested that staff research
the funds for possible future inclusion in the budget.
1VIOVED B3~ SCHIFFNER, SECONDED BY HICKMAN AND CARRIED
BY UNAIVIMOUS VO'I'E OI+"~'~dOS~ PRESENT TO REJECT THE GRANT
APP~,ICA'I'ION A1VV~ IDYREC'I' S~'AFF TO INVESTIGATE THE GRANT
FOI2 FiJ'TYJRE ~TSE.
PAGE NINE - CITY COiJNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
ITEMS PULLED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR
4. Acceptance of Planning Commission Resi~nation - Robert Polk. (F:60.2)
Councilman Buckley recognized the efforts of Commissioner Polk, and
noted that he had already moved out of town. He commented that he had
served the City well and was an asset to the City, however he had been hired
by the FBI for work related to homeland security. He indicated that he
was sure Mr. Polk would do a good job for the homeland security team and
thanked him for his service to the City.
Councilman Hickman also thanked Commissioner Polk for his service to
the City, and questioned how he would be replaced.
Mayor Kelley noted that she had sent a letter to Commissioner Polk
thanking him for his service to the City and inviting him to receive
recognition. She explained that applications were available for the now
two vacant positions, which would have been up this year anyway. She
advised that the application process was underway and would continue until
May 29'~'; she further advised that this was a Mayor's appointment process
and noted the possible scenarios far selection.
Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner noted that he was sorry to see Commission Polk
leave, as he had done a good job.
MOVED BY SCHIFFNER, SECONDED BY KELLEY AND CARRIED BY
UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THOSE PRE5ENT TO ACCEPT THE
RESIGNATION OF COMMISSIONER POLK.
T~€E REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING WAS RECESSED AT 7:59
P.1VI.
THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING RECONVENED AT 8:11.
PAGE TEN - CYTY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENTS - NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Tim Fleming, 17970 Lakeshore Drive, eapressed concernwith a flyer distributed
last week which included his name without his permission; and presenting
information with which he did not concur. He expressed appreciation to the
Chamber of Commerce for their comments, but stressed that he did not appreciate
being included in documents that were untrue or incorrect. He advised that he
had an issue with City Code Enforcement on their handling of lakefront private
property owners who do things that do not benefit the City. He indicated that he
went to the City two weeks ago to address his concern, and staff tended to blame
the Council for not passing codes or ordinances for enforcement. He further
indicated that he was a conscientious homeowner and showed a piece of
styrofoam material which was flying around the community from floats on a dock.
He commented that the dock was condemned in Canyon Lake in 1996 and moved
to Lake Elsinore without a permit. He stressed the chunks of styrofoam being
blown about and expressed concern that the City defended the property owners.
He expressed concern that there was no place to obtain a day use pass on Friday
through Sunday, and his difficulties in accommodating out of town guests. He
suggested that the City investigate making the Lake user friendly.
George Alongi, 649 Mill Street, indicated that he was present because some
rumors were circulating via the local media that EVMWD was depositing dirty
reclaimed water in the Lake. I~e stressed that was not the case and indicated that
they were not discharging any water ~n to the Lake at this time. He indicated that
it was unfair that people made this type of untrue statements and stressed that the
use of reclaimed water would be an importanYpilot project. He suggested that the
Mayor contact the Water Board President to form a Public Relations Committee to
educate the people on Channel3 and stress that there was no danger to the public.
Chris d-Iyland, 15191 Wavecrest, advised the public that if they wanted yard signs
or flyers they could contact her. She expressed concern that she received a report
PAGE ELEVEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
today that the ballot box was in the lobby, with the lid being simply pulled up and
the ballot dropped in. She questioned why the ballot box was in the lobby and
being opened to deposit the ballot; and indicated that she was not sure who to
report it to, but she wanted the box locked until she was present to see the ballot
count.
Edith Stafford, 29700 Hursh Street, advised the City Council and the City
Attorney that she was officially requesting a copy of the affidavit signed by
Councilwoman Brinley that her grandchild was legally, economically dependent,
as well as the enrollment plan with the child's name on it. She addressed the park
assessment and indicated that the main concern expressed by the property owners
was that there was no swimming pool for the kids, they want their maintenance
payments taken over, and only property owners would pay when everyone can use
the facilities. She noted that the Council was asking for approval of an
assessment where the Council could increase the amount by 3% every year, open
ended. She indicated that another concern, under the right to vote on taxes act,
was the burden on the City to show the benefit for the public at large. She
questioned whether the property owners received more benefit; and stressed the
need to demonstrate the benefit, over and above that received by the general
public.
Barbara Anderson, 304 N. Lewis Street, noted a letter to the Friends of the Library
regarding the borrowing of Library funds, which anticipated repayment in four
years. She further noted that the repayment had been postponed, but stressed that
the Library fund was a dedicated fund. She suggested that with the anticipated
budget surplus it was time to begin to repay the loan. She commented that since
the original borrowing, many homes had been built and more were anticipated;
which should bring the fund to approximately 1/2 million dollars, enough to
increase the size of the library. She noted that the library serves a population of
over 30,000; and compared it to the facilities available in Wildomar. She further
noted that the local library had no adult reading rooms, poor lighting, and staff had
to cross the entire library to access the circulation desk. She noted the funding
was provided by Friends of the Library to assist the library. She expressed
concern that property
PAGE TWELVE - CTTY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
owners were being asked to establish another fund, and suggested that it was
another deep pocket.
Mayor Kelley responded to Ms. Anderson, noting her past involvement with the
Friends of the Library. She noted that the Council would be doing a workshop in
a couple of weeks, and the library was always foremost on her mind. She further
noted that she intended to request the $40,000 as in prior years for replacement of
books. She also noted that the future library plans were not for an expansion, but
instead a public school libraxy, which is slated for the new high school on
Riverside Drive. She commented that it would be a second library for use by
students and the public.
Michael O'Neal, 1403 Heald, apologized for his manner, and questioned why the
City Council had so much contempt for the people of Lake Elsinore; and why they
would threaten to and ultimately close neighborhood parks. He suggested that the
Council should admit that the creation of this District was a way to raise taxes for
the general budget. He questioned who decided that some people get more votes
than others; and why a condominium was different from a home owners. He also
questioned who decided the benefit unit rate. He suggested that since Mayor
Kelley was a renter, she should have abstained from vote on this matter. Mayor
Kelley clarified that it was a weighted vote dueto State law.
Jim Morris, 15220 Golden Sands, indicated that he bought in a Mello-Roos area,
and one more tax is more than the City needs. He commented that the funds
should come from the General Fund; but the parks should not have been built if
the City could not afford to maintain them in the first place. He also commented
that he wanted to get a copy of the Planning Commission Agenda, but expressed
concern with the cost of being an informed citizen. He noted that getting copies
of the Minutes would cost about $812 to know what was going on. He suggested
printing enough copies for the interested residents, as the costs were too high. He
concurred with recouping the costs, but he didn't want to see overcharges.
Bill Tucker, 740 Acacia, noted a bad school bus accident this morning and
PAGE THIRTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
indicated that he could not see why there was not a seatbelt requirement on school
busses. He stressed that something should be done about that situation. He also
addressed the stop sign he proposed for Main/Limited. He further noted trash and
graffiti in the back yard of the neighbor behind his shop. He indicated that
graffiti was getting out of hand. He commented that while he knows money is
tight, he suggested extension of the launch ramp while the Lake was still down.
He addressed parking on Main Street and questioned why there was no two hour
parking limitation, noting complaints by the shop owners. He noted that he
visited San Diego and saw their dog park and suggested that one be placed at the
end of Main Street; and suggested that this might be a good project for Rotary
Club or the Chamber of Commerce.
Ken Howard, 17070 Shrier Street, addressed the findings of Proposition 13 and
Proposition 62, and stressed that they did not say property owner vote. He
expressed concern that the ballot box at City Hall was unlocked, and suggested
that it was illegal. He indicated that he had owned his property for 21 years and
his road looked like a creek bed. He suggested that he received no benefits,
although the City said they cleaned his property; and it took two months to get his
money back from the City. He indicated that the Council and the lawyers could
not be trusted, and asked for an explanation of how he would benefit from the tax.
CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
Assistant City Manager Best commented on the following:
1) Noted the benefit of public comments to the City and Country.
2) Congratulated the winners in the Neighborhood Pride Program, and
expressed appreciation for their efforts.
3) Noted the Proclamation recipients and recognized their efforts.
4) Advised that Planning Commission applications were still available.
PAGE FOURTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
5) Noted the West End Town Hall meeting held last week and thanked
the community for the opportunity to discuss their concerns.
6) Advised that the City Manager was attending legislative meetings in
Sacramento on behalf of the City.
7) Noted that many positive things were happening in the community,
including the Chamber of Commerce activities, and noted that the
City's golf team did very well.
8) Addressed Mr. Fleming regarding Lake use passes, and noted they
were not available for private property owners to purchase on their
own due to competition with other businesses.
9) Addressed Mr. Alongi regarding the issue of reclaimed water; and
indicated that the City and Water District were working together and
looking forward to putting water into the Lake.
10) Addressed parking on Main Street noting that the issue had been
raised several times, and when it was raised the business owners had
the same concerns referenced at this meeting regarding the allowance
for more business traffic.
11) Addressed the Park Assessment Ballot and clarified that the ballot
box was in the front of City Hall, but not the lobby; and stressed that
it was behind the public counter. She further stressed that it was a
locked drop box, and the only key was with the City Clerk's Office.
5he explained that there was in a slit in the top of the box, so no one
could reach back into the box. She also explained that the City Clerk
and staff opened the small ballot box nightly to transfer the ballots to
the large locked ballot box from the Registrar of Voters office. She
explained that the larger box was maintained in the City Clerk's office
for increased security over the front office. She noted that there had
PAGE FIFTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
been a lot of questions regarding Propositions 218 and 13, and
explained that they mandated how taxes could be levied. She
clarified that Proposition 218 allows for a property owners ballot, and
not just something the City Council chose to do. She addressed the
issue of facilities and concurred that there was no swimming pool,
other than the one at the high school, noting that the City would love
to see one, but it was not possible at this time. She commented on
the letter from the Jarvis organization and noted that it validated the
process the City was pursuing. She advised that the total park budget
for next year was proposed at about $1.5 million for maintenance of
the seventeen parks and recreational facilities. She explained that if
the park assessment passes, the dollars would be balanced and the
City was obligated to come up with 48.2% of the costs; so if the
voters chose to approve the assessment, it would provide the balance.
She clarified that the Council voted on the ability for votes to
consider the assessment, and stressed that no Councilmember had
threatened to close the parks. She stressed that this assessment
would provide a guaranteed source of funds, as park and recreation
services were not mandated, and the City was not obligated to
provide them. She noted that at some point in the future, things
might become tight and there would need to be a decision by the
Council on how to use the dollars and mandated services need to
come first. She noted that if there were further questions on the
assessment, there was a public meeting scheduled for May 22"d at 7
p.m. in the Cultural Center, and encouraged attendance. She noted
that there were two phone lines dedicated to this issue, extension 214
in English and extension 269 in Spanish; and advised that
inforxnation was also available on the website.
CITY A'Y"TORNEY COMMENTS
No comments.
PAGE SIXTEEN - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
COMMITTEE REPORTS
None.
CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilman Buckley commented on the following:
1) Thanked Mr. Tucker for the idea of a dog park.
2) Addressed the Park T~, and reiterated that he was not in favor of it,
as the timing was off and he was not a fan of the format. He
indicated that it was necessary to make more cuts in the budget before
asking the residents for more of their money.
3) Addressed the graffiti issue, and indicated that the only thing to
increase in the budget should be to make the graffiti position full-
time.
4) Announced that on Tuesdays, beginning on, May 21 S` he would be in
City Hall from Noon to 4 p.m., in the City Council Office. He
suggested calling the City Clerk's Office by Monday to set up an
appointment to come in and talk. He stressed the importance of
accessibility.
5) Commented that he wouldn't want to make copies of the whole
packet, but suggested it would not be too much of a burden to
produce the blue cover sheet and a copy of the staff report. He noted
that the agenda was on the website.
6) Noted that Chris Collopy had moved and would no longer be
participating on the Wildomar MAC. He congratulated him on his
years of service.
PAGE SEVENTEEN - CITY COiTNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
7) Commented on the TUIVIF fee discussions, and noted that the City
might have its own. He advised the County TUMF fee would
probably be $8,000 to $10,000 per house for new homes, and that
would not include the $5,000 for the habitat issue. He commented
that Lake Elsinore would not be put at a competitive disadvantage
because every new house in the County would be paying the same
fees; and noted that those people moving to Riverside County were
already saving over Orange County, Los Angeles or San Diego. He
stressed that this was not a big difference, and the new residents were
creating the need.
8) Noted that the City's team in the golf tournament tied for third place,
and commented that it didn't do as well as it could have, because Mr.
Boone couldn't play.
9) Noted the State budget, and indicated that Governor Davis came out
with about a$24 billion dollar deficit. He commented that the City
and County levels needed to be very worried about the final outcome.
10) Noted the new Cigarette Tax of $5 per carton was a new source of
income for the State.
Councilman ~Iickman commented on the following:
1) Expressed pride in his son's graduation from basic training.
2) Noted that he was hoping the Animal Friends contract would be
passed, but looked forward to its conclusion at another meeting.
3) Questioned the principles and trust of the City and questioned how
the votes would be Counted; and requested a statement of activity
from Ca1PERS.
PAGE EIGHTEEN - CITY COiTNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
4) Addressed the budget and indicated that he was proactive, not
reactive. He addressed the State budget deficit increase and
expressed certainty it would hit the local level. He stressed his
concerns and suggested a sharp pencil be used to finalize the budget.
5) Noted that when he left on vacation there were big places of steel on
Railroad Canyon, but now there were big grooves. He indicated that
he would like to see the work finished.
6) Noted problems with his phone and advised the public it should be
fixed soon.
7) Advised that he went through Kansas City, Missouri, where he was
born; and noted that they had created riverwalk in the downtown area,
which made the area boom. He expressed hopes of moving forward
on such a project.
8) Indicated that he was not wild about the tax assessment, but
suggested that if iY was not passed, the City should increase the user
fees to make them pay for the facilities. He suggested going back to
Resolution No. 95-7 and increasing the user fees.
9) Indicated that his vacation was good, he ate a lot of seafood and was
very glad to be back. He commented that there was no better place to
be than Southern California, noting that the bugs, temperatures and
humidity were difficult in other areas.
Mayor Pro Tem Schiffner commented on the following:
1) Noted that he had heard from several different groups including the
Chamber of Commerce, Women's Club, etc. and all of the events
mentioned were very positive things to be proud of. He fiirther noted
that the Council had heard horrible things about the community as
PAGE NINETEEN - CITY COi1NCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
well. He suggested that those saying a public official was not
trustworthy should know that there are two sides to every picture. He
stressed that many people were very happy and a few others were
doing their best to run the City.
2) Indicated that voting signs were legal, but expressed concerns with
those nailed to the palm trees in the right-of-way on Riverside Drive.
He commented that it was illegal to do so and they would probably be
torn down. He stressed that no matter what one's opinion was, they
should be respectful and place their signs properly. He reminded the
community to be aware of public vs. private property and suggested
that the owners of several properties were probably never asked.
3) Noted questions regarding Councilwoman Brinley and indicated that
everyone would like to know the answers, and they would be found.
He indicated that the State had been contacted and assured the public
it would be discussed until all were satisfied.
4) Expressed appreciation to Mr. Fleming far his comments, and
expressed confidence that he was not involved in the flyers. He
indicated that he would look into the dock issue and noted it was a
touchy issue with him. He suggested that if regulations were not in
place to prevent these concerns, he would look at ways to address
them.
5) Addressed Councilman Alongi and the picture about sewage going
into the Lake. He indicated that he knew it was not true, but it was a
typical example ofgroups of people that use that kind of tactics to run
down the City, Water District and Community. He noted that the
water which would be placed in the Lake would be clear and free of
bacteria and some would be obtained sooner or later when all
regulations had been met.
PAGE TWENTY - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
6) Commented with regard to closing the parks, it was repeated at the
last meeting why the money was being requested, and it was made
very clear that there was no threat of closing the parks, but it would
free up general fund dollars for other uses. He stressed that this had
been explained five or six times. He clarified that a Mello-Roos
Assessment was not a tax, but rather a payment on the infrastructure
around the property; otherwise the costs would be added on to the
cost of the home.
7) Concurred that the school bus situation was terrible, but it was
pursuant to State Law, with no City control on the matter.
8) Addressed the launch ramp, noting that the under water elevation of
the Lake would not allow for the ramp to be extended; and it would
be necessary to dig a trench across the Lake to make it work. He
noted that the Lake was at its lowest possible level to allow for
operation.
9) Commented that the parking on Main Street had been addressed
many times before.
10) Noted that with regard to the t~ benefit, it had been explained by the
assessment engineer, butevery property within three miles was
considered to have benefit from the facilities. He commented that a
lot of the property within three miles of the facilities was outside the
City limits, and the City has to pay for that portion of the community.
He noted that with regard to the tax benefit, he had five grandchildren
who had never gone to a public school, but they have paid property
taxes and school taxes anyway. He also commented that he was
paying taxes now and had no children in school.
11) Complimented the Police I~epartment on their apprehension of the
lady that killed the little boy on a bicycle. He noted that while he
PAGE TWENTY-ONE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
realized it was not her fault, but the problem was not that she did not
stay at the scene. He commented that she was a neighbor of the boy.
He also noted that the Police Department apprehended a burglar from
the Lake Terrace area, and noted the meeting held in that area last
week. He commended the Police Department on a job well done.
Mayor Kelley commented on the following:
1) Detailed the upcoming events including Cruise Night, Household
Hazardous Waste and the Kid's Fishing Derby.
2) Addressed Mr. Alongi's comment regarding reclaimed water and
indicated that she would call the Water Board President and set up a
meeting. She noted that they had been meeting for several months
already, and were making a lot of progress.
3) Indicated that Mrs. Brinley would answer the related questions when
she returns.
4) Addressed Councilman Buckley regarding questions at the Town Hall
Meeting at Rice Car~yon, which she could not answer at the time. She
indicated that she was going to make a personal phone call to answer
it, but the flyers came up at this meeting. She indicated that the
question was "5houldn't we be answering queries from the public?";
and the questions pertained to public safety and police response. She
clarified that the Police Chief in Lake Elsinore answers to the
Riverside County Sheriff and the City uses the City Manager form of
government. She noted that a lot of people want to run for City
Council to run the City, but suggested that they should check the job
description, because the Council sets the policy for the City, acts as
the visionary and appoints a professional, experienced manager to
handle daily operations. She explained that this type of government
keeps the City as stable as possible and provide continuity. She
PAGE TWENTY-TWO - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
indicated that this form of government was established to do away
with the motto, "To the winner, goes the spoils". She indicated that
this was the danger of the thought process of a Councilmember
thinking they run the City; and stressed that they do not and should
not. She noted that there was no education requirement, and no
knowledge of government required. She stressed that the only
requirements were to live in the City and be a voter. She reiterated
that Councilmembers were elected to set policy and direction, but
they were present for a term or two, however the staff was here for
the long haul. She stressed that staff was hired to provide services as
the Council comes and goes. She further stressed the importance of
a strong manager and noted that the Council and City get in trouble
when they try to run the City and dictate the operation. She also
stressed that a strong manager helps to balance the five elected
Councilmembers while running the City. She clarified that it took
three votes to make the manager do anything, and 'if anyone forages
their own path and meets with others, it creates huge issues for the
Council and the City; and causes problems when information is not
properly shared. She stressed that the council should hire a strong
manager and work to build consensus among the Councilmembers.
She noted a flyer that attacked City Manager Watenpaugh and
blamed him for everything from the Stadium to the drought. She
indicated that it contained a lot of misstatements and half-truths, and
did not warrant a nit-pickey response. She noted the emphasis in the
flyer on his salary and noted that his was the third in the valley
corridor, and 27`~' in the County. She clarified that he serves 24 hours
a day, 7 days a week, at the will of the Council. She noted that the
City Manager has over 30 years of government experience doing
what he was hired to do. She noted that one of the critical letters was
from a person who had been dead for over 100 years.
PAGE TWENTY-THREE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - MAY 14, 2002
ADJOURNMENT
MOVED BY HICKMAN, SECONDED BY BUCKLEY AND CARRIED BY
UNANIMOUS VOTE TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL
MEETING AT 9:20 P.M.
~,~~//2GG
~ ~
E KELLEY, YOR
OF LAKE ELSINORE
AT EST:
~.~C.~,~~~`O~'~` .
VICKI KASAD, CMC, CITY CLERK/
HUIVIAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE