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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-30-1997 City Council Study SessionMINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE 183 NORTH MAIN STREET LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA TUESDAY, 3091997 ********************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** CALL TO ORDER The City Council Study Session was called to order by Mayor Pape at 11:23 a.m. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ALONGI, BRINLEY, KELLEY, METZE, PAPE ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Also present were: City Manager Watenpaugh, Legal Counsel Leibold, Administrative SErvices Director Boone, Community Services Director Sapp, Assistant to the City Manager Best, City Engineer O'Donnell, Building and Safety Manager Russell, Police Chief Walsh, Fire Chief Seabert, Special Projects Coordinator Molendyk and City Clerk Kasad. PUBLIC COMMENTS - AGENDIZED ITEMS Two requests were received to comment on Item No. 1 and deferred to that discussion. ii - I k 0 -IC741 _5 .TIS e . City Manager Watenpaugh explained that the City is non - entitled and receives funds as a pass -thru from the County. He further explained that the pass -thru is based on the population of the City, and noted that only 15% of the City's allocation may be used for social service programs. He further noted that the City has requested the ability to utilize percentages not used by other cities for social services, which could mean an additional 12% for social programs. He explained that the balance is to be used for public works projects, which generally assist in improving blighted or low income areas. He further explained that the Senior Center is a directly funded program and noted the areas in which funds may be used. He advised that while the City has an anticipated allocation of approximately $190,000, there are eleven requests for a total of $327,339.00. He detailed the requests for both public works and social service programs, and presented the staff recommendations for funding. He noted the presence of representatives of some of the requesting agencies at this meeting. Mayor Pape noted that this is an annual process which does not get any easier; and expressed frustration with the number of requests vs. the available funds. Liza. Daniels Wolford, representing Alternatives to Domestic Violence, detailed the services which have been rendered to the City by ADV. She stressed that their focus is on families and children in domestic violence situations. She noted that there is an increasing number of men now calling for assistance. She advised that out of nearly PAGE TWO - CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION - DECEMBER 30, 1997 10,000 calls last year, there were 319 from the City of Lake Elsinore and surrounding area. She also presented statistics on the support counseling provided, shelter provided, assistance to seniors, outreach through the churches and transitional housing assistance. She noted that they are now also working to provide training to the private sector regarding domestic violence in the workplace. She further noted that until last April they had a facility in Lake Elsinore, but it was closed due to lack of funding. She clarified that they want funding to augment the services provided, but services will continue with our without funding. Julia Gronson, representing Tender Loving Missions, clarified that their proposal for $63,000 is the total amount they would need to make the required changes to assist the City and surrounding areas for a shelter during cold weather, emergency services and temporary displacements. She indicated that they have provided some services for five years without any funding, but there is a need -for emergency situation housing. She noted that staff has recommended that they not be funded, and concurred that there are many worthy causes which need money. She requested consideration of any amount of funding possible and noted that they are also working with the County for funding. She stressed that there is no shelter in this area and people must make their way to Riverside for shelter. Pastor Butenshon, representing HOPE, wished all a blessed new year, and congratulated the City on its award for accounting practices. He offered to answer questions, and noted that they have had an excellent year and things are going well at the center. He noted the commitment and dedication of the volunteers and indicated that they are asking for a total of $20,000, which will be sufficient for this year. He noted that last year they requested $40,000, but that included the purchase of a new van, which was not necessary because Councilwoman Brinley worked with RTA to obtain a van, which cost only about $1,500 to get it in good condition. He noted the blessings of individual donations and corporate donations to make their program a success. He indicated that the City contribution takes care of utilities, rent and transportation costs. He advised that this year they have added a program which assists other agencies in developing similar programs. He further advised that this year they provided 40,000 packaged meals. He noted that they are currently helping a group in Sun City to get their program going. Mayor Pape noted that the good news of HOPE is spreading. Mayor Pape reiterated the limited funding allowed for public service programs; and noted that one area which has been funded in the past has been the Senior Center, which takes up most of the public service program funds. He noted the large number of good programs, and noted that he toured the Operation School Bell facility, which was very impressive and had many volunteers. He suggested to the Council that funding of $2,000 each be given to HOPE and Operation School Bell, with a little reduction in the amount given to the Senior Center. He stressed the appropriateness of providing equal amounts to each of the two. He further stressed the services provided by Operation School Bell in providing new clothing, school supplies and backpacks, based on referrals by school administration. He reiterated that many children in Lake Elsinore benefit from the program. He indicated that with regard to the request from the Fire Department, the Jaws of Life equipment replacement is very much needed as the current equipment is about 15 years old. He stressed the technological improvements and supported this recommendation. He noted the request for $58,000 for curb, gutter and sidewalk improvements, it might be better to funnel those funds over the Spring Street, and stressed the poor condition of that PAGE THREE - CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION - DECEMBER 30, 1997 street. He indicated that he would support funding $30,000 for Code Enforcement for Structure Abatement; and noted while it is not nearly enough, but will start to make a dent with a little fimding each year. He stressed that some of these properties are becoming a problem for the Police as well. Councilwoman Brinley questioned the Senior Center and how much funding they receive from the County . City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that $30,000 has been requested from the County. Mrs. Brinley noted that funding is barely keeping the Center intact, but she was thinking of doing a bit more for HOPE and Operation School Bell. She stressed the success of Operation School Bell in maintaining the dignity of the children, and noted the good work of HOPE for Lake Elsinore and surrounding area residents. She stressed that she would like to see them given a little bit more. She commented that she appreciates the Senior Center, but there are other concerns in the Community . She further commented that children are the number one priority, and she would like to see the two programs get more money, and suggested $3,500 or $4,000 each. Mayor Pro Tern Kelley reviewed the figures and stressed the extreme difficulty of this decision. She stressed that all of the services are important to the community. She noted that she has referred some of her own students to Operation School Bell and stressed the difference they can make on a student's self esteem. She commented that the biggest problem is how to distribute the available funds equitably. She noted that she has inquired and none of these dollars can be transferred to park maintenance. She questioned the anticipated additional 12% for public service programs, and the certainty that it would be received. Community Services Director Sapp indicated that it may not be received, in which case a reallocation of dollars would be needed. Mrs. Kelley concurred that sidewalks are very much needed. She noted Fire Chief Seabert requested $37,000, but staff was only recommending $22,000, and questioned what else was requested. Chief Seabert indicated that the additional funding would have been for lake rescue equipment, backboards, a blower, a chainsaw, and fast water rescue equipment, some of which is replacement equipment and some is new. She clarified that the $22,000 is for the replacement of the Jaws of Life only. Mrs. Kelley questioned whether there was any anticipation of County dollars for the Fire Department. Chief Seabertt indicated that they are seeking funds from the County as well, but are not certain what the. County will provide. Mrs. Kelley commented that the Senior Center receives a large amount of dollars every year, and it is hard to be lopsided and fund one program completely, at the loss of others. Councilman Alongi concurred that this is always a very difficult decision to make, and he is joyful when he can agree with the Council on the importance of the children. He commented on the election and indicated that the Community had an opportunity to vote on the services they would support; and Structure Abatement was voted down, but now there is a proposal to fund Code Enforcement. He indicated that he supports Code Enforcement, but $30,000 will not be enough; and suggested that the City should enact an ordinance that when an owner refuses to cooperate their building is boarded up, preventing the accumulation of funds placed as liens which take a long time to recoup. He suggested that $30,000 be used for public safety to address the new school bus requirement that they stop and flash their lights, by placing signs on the approach to school bus stops. He indicated that he would like to put more into curbs and gutters. . He noted, that children are required to walk further to school now and stressed the need for more sidewalks in the areas near schools. He indicated that he does not disagree with the problems on Spring PAGE FOUR - CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION DECEMBER 30, 1997 Street, but he would rather have his car bump a little than have the children walking in unsafe areas. He concurred that the Fire Department request was very important, but stressed the importance of deciding where to get the best benefit from the dollars available. He indicated that tearing down properties and liening property is not a good approach. He noted that people also had the opportunity to vote on funding the Senior Center, and voted it down. He concurred that other services such as HOPE and Operation School Bell are also important. He stressed that the children need to feel that they are the most important commodity; and indicated that if the Senior Center must close two hours a day or something else, then they need to do so. He concurred with Mrs. Brinley to give $2,000 more to HOPE and School Bell, and stressed that they have provided services to a large part of the community. He indicated that he does not agree with the $28,000 proposed for the City study; he suggested that the RDA should be responsible to pay it back and noted that it is wrong to take that money when services are needed. He stressed his concern for the children and suggested bus stop signage to make it safer. He commended staff for doing a great job of putting the proposal together and thanked Mrs. Brinley for her concerns. Mayor Pro Tem Kelley commented that she recently attended the retirement of Officer Van Hofwegan from the Sheriffs Department and noted the recent drop in the crime rate. She asked at that time what the biggest help could be for their efforts and their overwhelming response was Code Enforcement, indicating that certain houses are becoming continuing problems. City Attorney Leibold clarified that the Planning Study relates to the General Plan, and the Housing Element is a mandatory element of the General Plan; and stressed that this is a separate and distinct document from the RDA document. Councilman Metze questioned the staff report with regard to the ADV request. Mr. Sapp clarified a typographical error, but clarified that ADV should be under public service programs. He further clarified that Code Enforcement is a separate category. Mr. Metze complained about the 85% - 15% distribution and suggested that the Council should be allowed more discretion. He indicated that he is seeing only $51,000 for public service, and questioned the ability to fund all of the programs discussed. He requested clarification that Code Enforcement and the Planning Study are in a separate category. City Manager Watenpaugh clarified that studies are under an administrative portion of the program, but count against the total amount allocated. Mr. Metze stressed that every item listed is worthy of consideration, and this is never a pleasant process. He concurred that he would like to fired HOPE and Operation School Bell and if any others are considered, he would like to see funding for Alternatives to Domestic Violence. He concurred that these are good programs and that they do wonderful things. He noted that his family has decided to begin assisting with HOPE; and indicated that ADV also provides a crucial service, so if there are any more funds spread, he would like to see it there. He indicated that he would like to see the fimds spread a little further. Councilman Alongi responded to Mrs. Kelley's comments and noted that during the election the Council was asking for 100,000 for Code Enforcement, and while he understands its importance, $30,000 does not even scratch the surface of what needs to be done. He noted that he reads the weekly reports from the Sheriffs department and does not see a high level of activity in that area, but he does see them going into apartments frequently. He stressed that there are better uses for the money. He suggested that programs which relieve financial pressure on the families are more PAGE FIVE - CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION - 30,1997 helpful. He indicated that fencing a piece of property and posting it is not as important as trying to save a child and make them safe. He further indicated if there was more money, he would not have an argument, but there is so much work to be done with so little fiords. He commented that he would rather give some to domestic violence than putting it into a property the owner does not care about. Mayor Pro Tem Kelley noted that she only commented for edification. Councilman Alongi expressed understanding, but indicated that he has always fought for code enforcement and there is not enough money to do it properly. He suggested that there is a need to find another way. Councilman Metze questioned the ability to reduce code enforcement and put those fiords into public service. Community Services Director Sapp clarified that it is not possible based on the percentages. Councilman Alongi questioned the 15% for public services and what it can be used for. Mr. Sapp clarified that there is no limitation on what to allocate within that percentage; and noted that it could be shifted from Code Enforcement to the fire equipment. Councilman Alongi further questioned the possibility of funding half to HOPE and half to School Bell from Code Enforcement. Mr. Sapp indicated it could not but was dependent upon the allowed percentage. City Manager Watenpaugh further clarified the potential additional percentage, which would allow for a 27% expenditure for public services programs. He noted that the Council could take additional from the Senior Center, but not from the public works projects. Councilman Alongi indicated that he understands public works, but Code Enforcement is not public works. City Manager Watenpaugh confirmed, but stressed the limited areas for funding. Councilman Metze further questioned the ability to eliminate Code Enforcement and the Planning Study to add to public services. He noted that the only way at this time would be to reduce the Senior Center funding. There was further general discussion of possible shifting of the fiords. Mayor Pape stressed that residents are concerned about the impact of property needing abatement on the neighborhoods. He indicated that no one expects $30,000 to be a cure all, but it tears down a few problem properties a year and will at least start to make a dent. He suggested with CDBG funds over a period of years, will be able to address the issue. He stressed his concern for taking advantage of what is available. Mayor Pape noted this item and the need to address alternatives. He ir..11 -oz cd � uat staff is looking to continue discussions with the County Supervisor regardin. resurfacing of Mission Trail between Corydon and Malaga. He no.Je tbaf- Supervisor Buster has expressed a willingness to front the balancc of funds squired. He explained that the recommendation is that staff and Council sit down with th. County to work out the details. He recommended that they also discuss La R Street, as it is both City and County responsibility. PAGE SIX - CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION - DECEMBER 3% 1997 Councilman Alongi commented on Mission Trail, and indicated that he does not disagree on Lake Street; but on Mission Trail, TMC is conditioned to do total improvements on Mission Trail. He questioned whether TMC will be billed for those improvements; and inquired why the City would use CDBG funds to do their work. He stressed the need to start recouping money from developers; and reiterated that TMC is conditioned for the improvements. City Manager Watenpaugh concurred that TMC is required to make full improvements, but it is a question of timing. They have indicated that they will move forward per the original specific plan for this area, but he was not sure of the timing on that. He noted that Village One does not go all the way to Corydon, but it is a good point that needs to be addressed with them very quickly. Councilman Metze noted, this isca similar, situation to INCO Homes and questioned if the City would still be able to get reimbursement; and concurred�with Councilman Alongi. City Manager Watenpaugh indicated that he would discuss this issue with the City Attorney. , He noted that the improvements are being discussed at the request of the Supervisor. Councilman Alongi indicated that he has discussed this issue with Supervisor Buster, but there are other things with TMC, and they have accepted that specific plan, because they will impact Mission Trail. He stressed they are conditioned to make the improvements. He indicated thathe would concede that they should not do curb, gutter and sidewalk to, Corydon at this time, but the traffic impact0will be caused by their project. He indicated that he would,need something to see4he money coming back, as he doesn't want the same situation as,the car dealership; heAwants some kind of guarantee. City Manager Watenpaugh' indicated that the im*ovements can be included or it can wait until TMC does the improvements. Councilman Metze commented on the phasing of the TMC project, and suggested getting the money back over a period of time to coincide --with the phases. Councilman Alongi. concurred this was something to look at. CIty Manager Watenpaugh indicated that this item will be back to Council on January 13th. I 1 1"] tu The City Council Study Session was=adjourned TEST: SAD9 CITY CLERK CIT1 OF LA1a ELSINORE 2 tt " p.m. Cl� VIN W. P E,11YOR CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE