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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-22-1994 Joint City Council/RDA Budget Study Session MINUTES JOINT CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BUDGET STUDY SESSION CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE 183 NORTH HAIN STREET LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA - MONDAY, AUGUST 22, 1994 ***************************************************************** CALL TO ORDER Mayor Washburn called the Budget study Session to order at 8:40 a.m. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ALONGI, BENDER, WASHBURN ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: CHERVENY, PAPE Also present were: City Manager Molendyk, Assistant city Manager Rogers, Administrative Services Director Boone, city Planner Leslie, Community Services Director Sapp, Manager of Special Projects Watenpaugh, Public Services Director Tecca, Acting Chief Building Official Russell, Public Services Manager Payne, community Services Manager Best, Fire Chief Schmutz, Sheriff's Captain Yankee, City Treasurer Kelley and City Clerk Kasad. DISCUSSION ITEM A. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES. (F:30.1) (X:44.1) City Manager Molendyk explained the Goals and Objectives as follows: - City Council City Manager Molendyk suggested that one or two meetings a year would be advisable with the following list to improve communications with the other organizations: Intergovernmental Relations Study Session with County Supervisor's Office. Study Session with School Board. Study Session with EVMWD. Interface with State Elected Officials. Interface with neighboring communities (such as Temecula and Murrieta). Act as Ambassadors to the Community. Economic Development Establish aggressive program to bring in new revenue sources. - city Manager Molendyk stated that the city must continue to make a major effort to bring in businesses which will generate revenue. He made note of the State Budget and the future possibility of helping fund the program to address illegal immigrants. He further noted that the County is going to have to cut 40% of their overall budget and in turn services will be cut. video - Economic profile and tourism. Marketing/demographic material update. Personnel training. Development projects: Red Lion PAGE TWO - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22 1994 , , International Outlet Center Eastlake Autodealer West End Commercial City Manager Molendyk emphasized the importance of sticking to the listed projects. He explained that to properly utilize staff's time they must be allowed to stick to designated projects to maintain efficiency. - Administrative Services Review of Arbitrage Financing. Develop policy manual for computer system. Develop tax information brochure. Community Services Completion of McVicker Park. Completion of Phase III - Yarborough Park. Renovation of Senior Center. Computerization of registration and facility rentals. COUNCILMAN PAPE ARRIVED AT 8:45 A.M. Community Development General Plan clean-up housing element. (This is required by the State of California.) Zoning Code update. Lake Edge Specific Plan. Annexation No. 66 Sphere of Influence. RDA Housing Program AB1290. GIS - All Departments Interface. GIS - Policy and Procedure Manual. Code Enforcement - policy to recoup liens. Policy land use - horse properties. Hillside guidelines. Evaluate contract for County Health Service. - Fire CFD 88-3 construction of fire station. Evaluate funding and staffing levels. Police Maintain existing service levels and funding. Establish special enforcement programs. Community Action Programs and policies (for example Area "J". When Council is satisfied that the goals have been met at that location, the program can be moved to a another problem area). Downtown - Enforcement (Cushman/Bicycle patrol) Lake ~ Improvement - beach area. Lease conformance - City Recreation Area. PAGE THREE - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 - City Manager Molendyk explained that the City is loosing money on the Concession Agreement and needs to be addres~ed and brought into conformance. The Lake and the sta~:il.um are enterprise accounts and should make money for the c~ty. Public Safety Issues. (In 1995, the City will be required to provide public safety on the Lake.) Stadium Stadium management. Maintenance - short term and long term. Programs and events. policies and procedures. (Use and rental policy.) Public Works Refurbish Public Services Yard. capital Program - streets. Conformance to AB 939 - 25% diversion of recycling. Infrastructure maintenance. Four Corners Storm Drain - coordinate with county Mayor Washburn asked whether the City has programs that are well established or are more programs suggested. ci ty Manager Molendyk explained that proposed programs address Special Events such as the boat race and other such programs. - Mayor Washburn suggested that there be more acti vi ties to utilize the Cultural Center. City Manager Molendyk reminded Council that the City has increased its facilities and not its management, and noted that there are activities planned at the Cultural Center, as well as making the facility available for weddings. Mayor Washburn asked if the includes training for staff. that he would address that. section that addresses GIS City Manager Molendyk stated - Councilman Bender commended staff for the list of Goals and Obj ecti ves. He stated that goals and obj ecti ves save time and money. He suggested that staff should be authorized to address the issues such as the ski school and the tour business that were before Council at the last meeting. Councilman Bender suggested that if the different businesses present their applications to the City they should approach staff in a business-like manner, with a complete business plan and draft contracts for staff to review. Staff should not be expected to provide these items for the applicants. He explained that if the prospective businesses do not have all their information in order, then staff should not deal with them and they should not appear before City Council without a complete package. He stated that it is a waste of time for the City Council, City Attorney and staff. Councilman Bender commented on the list of capi tal Improvements Projects which are needed in the next five years and noted the Council should pick the ones that they wish to see done. He stated that he approved of this method, since the Council is then made aware of the needs of the city. He indicated he felt that Public Services Director Tecca should set the priority since he has the expertise to determine which PAGE FOUR - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 projects are most needed. Councilman Bender explained that this gives the City the benefit of proper planning and scheduling. City Manager Molendyk stated that one of the other things that Councilman Bender noted last Friday was the amount of trash which accumulates along the lake edge both along Lakeshore Drive and as viewed from a boat on the lake in various other areas. He explained that Council might want to look at more __ signage and enforcement along the lake edge to address this problem. City Manager Molendyk stated that Councilman Alongi has questioned the distance that chain link fence should go out along the property line on the lake edge. Mayor Washburn stated that he felt that Council would give no argument regarding the clean-up along the lake edge. He explained that this is a problem that needs to be addressed since it is so visible. Councilman Alongi commented to Councilman Bender that the City is the public servant and Lake Elsinore is only a City of 24,000. He indicated that the city cannot expect small businesses to come into the ci ty and spend thousands of dollars in the preparation of the business reports previously mentioned. He stated that he doubted that the ski school would be in existence if the owner of the business had to come up with the money to provide the business financial profile or proposed contracts. Councilman Alongi explained that the main trust of the community is to get the small businesses in operation to attract the large businesses. He stated that it is counter productive to require the same information from a small business as would be required of a Wal-Mart or a Red Lion involving millions of dollars and many acres of land for __ their investment. He explained that if the City required the businesses on Main street to provide architectural drawings, engineering reports, and financial reports then Main street would not have been done. Main street exists because the City does serve the public through a special program which did not require them to expend a great deal of money. He stated that the City provided low interest loans for improvements. Councilman Alongi addressed the Capital Improvement Project and stated that Council is elected and part of their campaign is based on making certain improvements to the City. He commented that while Mr. Tecca is a knowledgeable person and recognizes the projects, he does not understand the needs of the people and the things that they would wish to see addressed first. He suggested that it is the Council's job because they are in touch with the community and respond to the needs. He explained that it is not up to staff, but rather the Council to meet the pUblic's wants, needs and desires. City Manager Molendyk noted that as an example, the small business man who wished to set up a tour service was very ill- prepared and the information provided was not adequate. He explained that in regard to small businesses, if there was a simple rendering provided, and not what would be expected of Wal-Mart, then the staff would be more prepared to give guidance in regard to color and style; and prevent improper information being brought before Council. -- Mayor Washburn stated that when he was teaching in Junior PAGE FIVE - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 - College he would not accept an incomplete paper or project and required his students to take it back and do it over. He further stated that he would not expect staff to accept an incomplete project; but in the case of the tour businesses, staff did not accept the project and the applicant of the tour agency did bring it to Council in protest of staff's decision. He stated that it took the consensus of Council to rule that the project was not complete. City Manager Molendyk stated that the reason the tour business was brought before Council was because it was pushed by a former Councilmember and the only way to resolve it was to bring it before Council for a decision. Councilman Pape stated that Council does not want to discourage small business coming to Lake Elsinore, but on the other hand when they are not prepared, staff can lend a helping hand and list the things that they would need to complete their package for final submittal. city Manager Molendyk stated that in the past Council has been approached by business owners wishing to hurry their projects in order to open for business and have submitted less than complete packages. He stated that the City is a business and should be run in a business-like manner. - Mayor Washburn stated that sometimes staff tends to drag their feet and tends to block an issue and that's when Council gets involved and comes down on staff. He explained that it works both ways. Mayor Washburn commented that he feels that 85% of the time staff follows the guidelines and policies; and they are conveyed to the applicant. He stated that the other percentage of the time is when Council gets involved. Councilman Bender stated that he felt that Councilman Alongi and he do agree on many things, but clarified that business plans are not expensive. He further explained that it is an outline of business items and will assist in the success of the business. Councilman Bender stated that this is a form of preliminary homework to help the business succeed. He further stated that it is the City's responsibility to encourage and help the applicant, but they must do the foundation work for themselves He explained that he wants big and small businesses in the City, but they must be responsible for doing all the things necessary to accomplish that objective. councilman Bender stated that he supports the ski school, but feels that they must do their homework to be successful and properly use the lake. Councilman Pape questioned the Goals and Objectives, and stated that he did not see the Limited street Bridge listed. City Manager Molendyk stated that it would be part of the Capital Improvement Project List. - B. PROPOSED BUDGET - FISCAL YEAR 1994/95. (F:30.1) City Manager Molendyk stated that at the last budget meeting staff had indicated for revenue the City would have a savings of $500,000, but now there is an additional $200,000 so there will be an ending General Fund balance of $790,000. He PAGE SIX - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 explained that for 94/95 the City is looking at a revenue of $8,500,000 with expenditures estimated at $9,964,000 which means that the City will have to go into the reserves for $l, 464,000. Ci ty Manager Molendyk stated that the Redevelopment Agency has always contracted to the City for administration, however because of the costs to the RDA in the last year some of the functions are now being absorbed by the General Fund. City Manager Molendyk then detailed the items which could be removed from the budget for a total savings of __ $173,600. He made special note of the costs of General Law Enforcement and stated that the City would retain the current level of service; and pointed out the possible need to retain the lobbyist. He requested Council comments with regard to the proposed reductions in Exhibit "A". Councilman Pape asked how long the City has had the Lobbyist. City Manager Molendyk stated that he has been under contract for three years. Councilman Pape asked if he has created benefits for the City. City Manager Molendyk explained that he was active and instrumental in the transfer of the Lake, information on a weekly basis regarding the state Legislature and state Budget, representation on Water Quality issues for the City (regarding Title 22) and now he is working on a one- time allocation of $1,000,000 for a boat launch for the Lake. City Manager Molendyk stated that he feels the Lobbyist is vital for intergovernmental relations. Councilman Pape asked if we tell the lobbyist what we want to see accomplished in the City, he can look around Sacramento to see if he can acquire the funding. City Manager Molendyk stated that that is just one of his purposes. He cited as an example that the lobbyist is currently working on trying to get the three million dollars that the City was suppose to __ receive back from the State for the Lake from the 1976 Bond Act. City Manager Molendyk explained that if the Chief of Police asked that certain issues be addressed and the present law would not allow for those actions, the lobbyist would be the person who would work toward getting a piece of legislation through the system, by seeking an Assemblyman or Senator to present a Bill to aid the City is responding to the problems that need to be addressed. Councilman Pape asked if it would be more appropriate to go through the lobbyist than to go to the Assemblyman or State Senator. Mayor Washburn stated that it would. He explained that he has been involved with the City lobbyist and he was very effective in the Lake Transfer, as well as now trying to recover the money from the 1976 Bond Act. City Manager Molendyk stated that the current lobbyist, Mr. Arnold, also represents the cities of Anaheim and Long Beach. Mayor Washburn stated that although he is in favor of funding more money to the GIS program, he feels that he would take the funds from that project to fund the Lobbyist. He explained that he is worth the money for the things that he accomplishes for the city. Councilman Alongi stated that the Lobbyist is necessary in current times and he feels that Mr. Arnold is worth the money. Councilman Alongi stated his concerns regarding use of the -- PAGE SEVEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 - city Attorney and asked for more information regarding the type of calls that the city Attorney would respond to the public. He suggested that an application for information to the public be submitted for each department, and then the department can check to see if it is legal to release the information rather than the public calling the city Attorney to acquire information. He explained that he felt that this could be better handled at a staff level. councilman Alongi commended Code Enforcement and stated that he does not want to see those services cut because they aid the Sheriff's Department. City Manager Molendyk stated that when he started with the City it had a population of 9,000 and now it has a population of 25,000 and the level of service has been maintained during that time. He explained that this is a recommendation to supplement what the city has at this time. He noted that the city is carrying $100,000 in the budget for abatement of buildings and once the budget is approved, that money is gone. He stated that this item can be brought back at mid-year budget, but at this time there will be more board- ups because the current budget is out of money and as soon as the proposed budget is approved the money is spent to finish the abatement of the current boarded up structures which have been waiting for funding to be abated. - councilman Alongi questioned the cut of $30,000 and stated that he does not want to see the extra funds cut from Code Enforcement. City Manager Molendyk pointed out that this would reduce the funds that he felt should be available in the reserves, but it is up to council to establish the amount of reserves that they wish to maintain. councilman Alongi stated he does want to see the City increase its reserves, but he does not want to see the service to the community reduced to increase them. He explained that public safety is a major responsibility of Council and the extra $30,000 is not that great an impact on the general reserves. Councilman Pape stated that the City Attorney works for the City Council and if the staff informs the public that the information that they request is not for release, then this matter should not go to the City Attorney, but rather the Council at a regular meeting or to the Manager. He stated that if the public wished to speak to the City Attorney, they could make a deposit with the City and the charges could be taken from the deposit to reimburse the City Attorney for his time. ci ty Manager Molendyk stated that he would have to consult with the City Attorney in regard to the legality of this approach. Mayor Washburn stated that under the Public Information Act the public has the right to approach the City Attorney for information and they cannot be charged. He explained that the City is paying for too many charges from the city Attorney, for questions that the ci ty should not pay for. Mayor Washburn stated that if the Council does not like what the press is reporting, they should stop talking to them and force them to attend the public hearings and the City Attorney can address them at that time. Councilman Bender questioned the $30,000 for the lobbyist. ci ty Manager Molendyk stated that the lobbyist was included in PAGE EIGHT - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 the budget and Exhibit "A" shows that he was removed from the budget to shave more money from the budget to allow for a greater amount to be placed in the reserves. Councilman Bender stated that he did agree with Councilman Alongi regarding the request forms for the public and the City should utilize the cost recovery program. He asked if the Sheriff's Department would pick up any slack if the City does reduce the amount originally allocated to Code Enforcement. ci ty Manager Molendyk explained that the CSO's enforce anything that has to do with public property or public right-of-way and Code Enforcement deals with private property; and Captain Yankee is going to work with the City to have Community Service Officers deal with weekend sales. - Councilman Alongi commented on the striping of the streets and noted that in sme areas in other cities, the asphalt is ground and a tape is placed to mark crosswalk. He stated that the tapes reflect at night and are permanent. He asked if we could use this program in the City. Public Services Director Tecca stated that the plastic striping lasts about four times longer than paint, but it is very expensive and should be used for an ul timate improvement only such as Railroad Canyon Road. He stated that the majority of areas that are painted are due to a lack of funds for that area or the fact that the street striping will ultimately be changed. Councilman Alongi asked if the ci ty had recei ved a new contract with Animal Control. City Manager Molendyk stated that there is one year left with the Animal Control contract and what is reflected in the budget is an increase for cost of living. City Manager Molendyk recapped the desires of Council. He __ requested confirmation that the $30,000 each for Code Enforcement and the lobbyist were added back in to the budget. Councilman Alongi stated that he would like to see some type of program where the turn around time for the recovery of funds for abatement can be made faster. There was general discussion regarding allowing an extra $15,000 for Code Enforcement. ci ty Manager Molendyk explained that there is an additional $100,000 in abatement recovery and some of it will be generated back in during the year. He stated that the $15,000 could be placed in the Code Enforcement budget at this time for the issue be brought back at mid-year and the monies generated from the abatement recovery be placed into that fund as well. Mayor Washburn asked the City Manger for a memo showing what the $100,000 outstanding in abatement recovery is for, and also a list of all the properties that are waiting for abatement. Mayor Washburn asked what the "Further Define Programs for 1994-95" for the GIS meant on Exhibit "A". Acting Chief Building Official Russell explained that there are no goals or objectives for the GIS and no roles set for the personnel to operate the GIS. He explained that there is a need to address the goals and objectives for this program. -- City Manager Molendyk explained a portion of Exhibit "B" PAGE NINE - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 regarding capital Items and Other Item Funding. He asked Public Works Manager Payne to explained the improvements for the Public Works Yard. Public Works Manager Payne explained that what he is proposing to do is build a 5,000 square foot steel building which would be used for a vehicle maintenance shop as well as a warehouse facility as well as paving the rest of the yard. He stated that the three buildings which are currently in use were built in the 1940's and the SCJPIA has suggested replacement Councilman Alongi asked how much savings there would be if an office space was not built. Mr. Payne stated that it would be approximately $5,000 in savings. Councilman Alongi asked how much could be saved if the paving was not done this year. Mr . Payne explained that there is a current flooding problem and if the buildings were done and the paving was not done, there would still be the problem of flooding. Councilman Alongi asked if the building could be elevated at the time of building and DG placed, to postpone the paving until next year. Mr. Payne stated that it is a possibility. Councilman Alongi stated that it would save $40,000 to put the paving off until next year, and explained that it would create quite a savings for this fiscal year. He explained that he knows that it has to be done, but he feels that the paving can be put off for one more year. - City Manager Molendyk stated that the City Yard has taken a back seat to other projects for several years and needs to have attention. He invited Council to go to Public Works and view the facility. Councilman Alongi agreed, but stated that there is a tight budget this year and the dollars need to be shifted around to gi ve the public the proper service they deserve. He explained that what he is proposing is that Public Works still get the building and office, but the paving will not directly affect the project, if they lay base aggregate and then DG which will receive the asphalt for next year. He stated that he is only addressing the paving. Councilman Bender stated that he was in full agreement with Councilman Alongi. Councilman Pape asked what kind of damage would occur from erosion if the asphalt is put off for a year. Councilman Alongi stated that there would be none if it is graded and packed correctly. Mayor Washburn stated that he felt that the building would be sufficient for this year, and if there is surplus at a later date then the paving can be completed as well. City Manager Molendyk explained that CDBG funds can be used to retro-fit the bathrooms at the Community Center and that amount has been eliminated. Councilman Alongi questioned the use of CDBG funds to fix the Community Center. He stated that he does not dispute the needs of the Community center, but he would like to see more information regarding the cost and more information regarding the housing program which requires some CDBG funds. Mayor Washburn asked if that would be covered by the set-aside PAGE TEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 money for this fiscal year. City Manager Molendyk stated that the Housing Program being discussed will have to be allocated from RDA. He explained that the trend of the budget for the next couple of years is to take care of what the City already has. Mayor Washburn asked if the allocation that the ci ty is allowed to use of CDBG monies for social groups will be held and not be used for the Community Center. Community Services Manager Best explained that this has been proposed to the County and it would not affect this years budget, but is proposed for the following year and would be at Council's choice. - There was general discussion regarding the up-grading of the Community Center and the need to make the improvements to meet State requirements. City Manager Molendyk stated that there are no commitments being made, and explained that this is an alternate resource. Councilman Alongi suggested that since there is a need for funds to provide other services; and the 4 Wheel Drive vehicle is not necessary at this time, since its primary use is for the rainy season only and can be postponed for a year. Mayor Washburn stated that if a choice had to be made, he would rather the Sedan be eliminated and the 4 Wheel drive vehicle kept in. Councilman Alongi stated that either way one should be put off until next year to save $20,000. City Manager Molendyk stated that policy in the past was for _ the City to turn over vehicles at 60,000 to 65,000 miles to retain a trade in value. He stated that now they are kept from 70,000 to 100,000 miles before trade in. He explained that the 4 Wheel Drive vehicle was proposed because of the heavy rains and the fact that there are still 48 street miles in the city that are dirt as well as the levy. City Manager Molendyk explained that due to the State budget, if the items are not purchased this year, it will be several years before they can be purchased. He cautioned that all areas of financing are going to get tighter. Councilman Alongi stated that if the City wishes to buy both vehicles, then it is f ine with him as long as money is allocated to Code Enforcement and the Lobbyist. Councilman Bender asked if the 4 Wheel Drive vehicle could replace one of the S-10 vehicles for next year. City Manager Molendyk stated that one of the Sedans, the Public Works Manager is currently using would be used as a trade in for the 4 Wheel Drive and then Public Works Manager Payne would be assigned the vehicle since he is in charge of Public Works Maintenance. Councilman Pape asked how many miles the current S-10's have on them. Public Works Manager Payne stated that they currently have approximately 60,000 miles each. Councilman Alongi stated that he cannot see replacing a regular vehicle with a 4 Wheel Drive and then have it used as -- PAGE ELEVEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSZON- AUGUST 22, 1994 a regular vehicle. He expla~ned.that th~s type of.V~hicl~ is expensive to operate and ma1.nta1.n,. and 1.S a spec1.al ~eh1.c~e for special uses. He stated that 1.f that type of veh1.cle 1.S needed it can be rented and he felt that type of vehicle is not as necessary as some of the other services that are required by the city. city Manager Molendyk stated that the 4 Wheel Drive Vehicle is something that the City would like to have and it is specialized. He stated that there is a 4 Wheel Drive in the Lake Budget, but if the Council does not want it, then there is no need to use the funds from the Lake Budget. Councilman Alongi stated that it is not so much a matter of not wanting the vehicle, but rather where the greater need is. He stated that if there are funds in the budget for the Lake, perhaps the vehicle can be used for both purposes. Mayor Washburn addressed the content of the newsletter and stated that it should be published twice a year instead of quarterly. He stated that it is important to the public to know what the city is doing. Councilman Alongi asked what the $5,000 for Promotions is used for. city Manager Molendyk explained that it is proposed to use these funds for hosting two different events; one, for bankers to visit the City and include a lunch which will promote investments in Lake Elsinore; and two, an effort to focus on certain businesses to encourage them to locate in Lake Elsinore. - Councilman Alongi asked if the Banner Program includes putting up and taking down the Chamber of Commerce's banners. City Manager Molendyk stated that it does. Councilman Alongi stated that he agreed with the Mayor that the Newsletter is an item which should be done twice a year to keep the public informed. He explained that he felt that the Chamber of Commerce was going to have to start pulling their own weight in the community and absorb the cost of the Banner Program. He further felt that the Promotions portion is necessary. Councilman Alongi stated that he felt that the City is doing more things for the Chamber of Commerce that they should be doing themselves. He explained that it is not fair to continue those programs, when the city needs to continue programs for the entire community, and not just a small sector of the community. Councilman Bender stated that the information in the Newsletter is generally six months old. He suggested that it might be better to use the Community services Brochure which is published quarterly and incorporate a section of that bulletin for the RDA Newsletter. He explained that it would save mailing and printing costs. city Manager Molendyk stated that the best promotion in the City is word of mouth and he would encourage the Council to go out and tell the public that it is great. Mayor Washburn stated that staff should look at the possibility of incorporating the Newsletter with the Community services Brochure. Councilman Alongi stated that if the City has to tighten its PAGE TWELVE - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 belt, then the organizations that the City has supported need to tighten their belts as well and that is why he felt that the Banner Program should be eliminated for this year. Councilman Alongi questioned what the 10 Programs at the Cultural Center would be. Community Services Manager Best explained that what the budget proposal includes is two performances by a Shakespearean Theater troop as well as an art workshop wi th the high school and elementary school students in the drama area. She further explained that it includes two performances by the Hampstead Theater Troop (children's oriented theater). Councilman Alongi asked if there would be a charge for these performances. Community Services Manager Best explained that the children's theater would be held during the day at minimal cost to encourage student participation. She further explained that the other performances would be at night and on weekends, and there would be a charge to defer some of the costs. Councilman Alongi questioned the performances including the School District and stated that he felt that this should generate funds since that is what the building is intended for. He stated that the Community Center is for general use and the Cultural Center is special and should support itself. Mrs. Best explained that the children's theater is for the entire community, sponsored by the City and is not a School District activity. Councilman Alongi asked if the $8,200 is recoverable. Mrs. Best stated that approximately 80% would be recovered. Mayor Washburn encouraged Community Services to promote Weddings. He stated that there is a need for a place to hold weddings and the Cultural Center is perfect for such an occasion, and this would also generate income. Councilman Alongi stated that he agreed with the Mayor, and inquired whether a cost for use of the CuI tural Center had been established. Mrs. Best stated that her department has been in the process based on the cost of holding the Council Meetings in the building on a twice monthly basis. City Manager Molendyk explained there is a Master Plan for bike lanes once the General Plan is adopted. He further explained the CIP Funds available for appropriation. Mayor Washburn asked about Limited Street. Public Services Director Tecca explained that a design is underway to place a two lane interim improvement from Graham to Main Street. He clarified that all the projects proposed in the budget are subject to Council approval. Mayor Washburn questioned the best alternative for the Limited Street Bridge without changing things for the future. He stated that at this time it is one lane and has little traffic and if it is a two lane road it will generate a lot of traffic and potential problems. Public Services Director Tecca stated that in the General Plan it calls for a major arterial around the Lake and he has suggested a two lane with bike trails all around the Lake. Councilman Alongi stated that he felt it should be a two lane roadway to prevent the plug that has occurred as well as to improve public safety. He explained that he felt that the - - - PAGE THIRTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 - expenditure on the opening of Nashland will not improve their situation. He stated that he felt that improvecj communication and strict Code Enforcement with the owners assisting will improve the area more. He stated that the City should spend the dollars where it can get the most use and that is the two lanes to open up Limited street. Councilman Alongi asked if it was necessary to do the slurry seal on the parking lots. Councilman Pape stated that the $200,000 for Nashland outlined in this list is being addressed in other areas and could be applied to the Limited street Bridge construction. He stated that he agreed with Councilman Alongi. Councilman Pape stated that he felt that the Main street and Sulphur Street decontamination could be cut in half this year to allow Council to apply those funds to other things. There was general discussion regarding the strip paving of Illinois Street; the fact that Elsinore Ready Mix has offered to donate the concrete to do the curb, gutter and sidewalk and the fact that it will address the drainage problems found in that area. Public Services Director Tecca stated that Elsinore Water District is putting a water line on that street and the road will not be addressed until that project is complete. Councilman Bender asked about the drainage. Public Services Director Tecca explained that there are drainage pipes all along Lakeshore Drive, and Illinois Street would drain to one of those pipes if it is available. - Councilman Bender expresed concern with projects which are partially done and then the City starts new projects. He pointed out the problem with the area at Lake Street and Robb Road with the medians full of weeds; and noted that this is a major entryway into the City. He questioned the amount of money needed to clean up the area and irrigate it. Public Services Director Tecca stated that the funds requested for that project are for the installation of an irrigation system and landscaping. Councilman Bender stated that he was in favor of this project in order to complete the area. He stated that it is presently an eyesore for a major entrance to the City. - city Manager Molendyk stated that Engineering had listed the Limited Street Bridge at $300,000 and there is still a short- fall of $25,000. Mayor Washburn stated that it would not take $300,000 to do Lakeshore Bridge since the bridge itself would not cost that. He stated his concern in regard to making the road two-way. He explained the liability to the city if that road is turned into a two way street again. He noted that it would be best to look into this matter further before changing the current circulation pattern. There was general discussion in regard to the entire project, and it was decided that the bridge was to be done, but not all of the street improvements proposed. Councilman Bender went over the amount of money cut by the suggestions of Council and asked how much can be saved on the Limited street Bridge by improvements being done from Langstaff to Spring street only. Public Services Director Tecca stated that it would cut the cost from $300,000 to $200,000 in total cost. He stated that with the savings, PAGE FOURTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 perhaps something could be done on Illinois street and Lake street to get those projects implemented. City Manager Molendyk clarified the revision of Limited street Bridge from Spring street to Langstaff, and explained that savings created there might landscape Lakeshore and Robb Road and pave Illinois street if the Water Company does their water lines. - Mayor Washburn stated that a possible allocation of funds if Illinois street cannot be done this year is to use the funds for road improvements related to Lake use. City Manager Molendyk asked what the time frame was for the improvements of the median on Railroad Canyon Road and on Collier Road. Public Services Director Tecca stated that the time frame on Railroad Canyon Road is dependent on Pardee. He explained that there were two water lines running up and down the median, one for potable water and one for reclaimed water. He stated that the potable water line is about to be charged in order to construct housing models. If the City wishes to use potable water for irrigation, which is more expensive, then it would be available within the year. If the city wishes to use reclaimed water then the city will have to wait for Pardee to build a reservoir and a pump station and that could be several years away. City Manager Molendyk stated that the modification will be figured and a memo will be provided to Council to inform them of the outcome of changes to the budget. Councilman Alongi asked if the city had the funds to proceed now with the entrance to Lakepoint park at High street and __ Lakeshore Drive; since there is grant money coming for this construction. He stated that the area is getting congested and is a liability with the park and Senior Center located there and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Public Services Direct Tecca stated that if the money is spent, then the City looses the grant. Councilman Alongi asked how long it will take to get the grant monies. Public Services Director Tecca stated that this is through the Regional Transportation Program and when the budget is approved for them on October 1, 1994, then the money will be released to the city. Councilman Pape questioned the funding for the After School Program. He asked that the City get a letter off to the County, School District and participating cities to inform them that if they wish to see this program continue at the current level of service, then they should include this in their budget as well. He explained that it is not the City of Lake Elsinore's responsibility to pay for a program for the children from the County, Wildomar and Canyon Lake to participate in. He stated that they should be responsible for their own children and pay their fair share. Mayor Washburn concurred with Councilman Pape's comments and asked that the City Manager talk with Dr. Long, Superintendent of the School District to possibly fund a portion of the After School Program and let the School District fund the rest. - Councilman Alongi stated that he felt that this was an PAGE FIFTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 -- important program and if the schools are servicing the county children then the county should contribute to the program as well. He explained that he would not like to see the program disturbed this year. Councilman Alongi stated that he would like to see the County and other cities given proper notification in order to give them the opportunity to act on this issue and if they do not include it in their budget then the City can start to issue cards to the children of the residents of Lake Elsinore to prevent the city taking on the responsibility of the County. This would identify the persons who are entitled to the use of this type of programs. He explained that the Community Center is for the community at large and he felt that it should not incur a charge for the City residents; but the persons living outside of the city should have to pay for its use. Councilman Bender concurred with Councilman Alongi and stated that he would like to see the Kids on Track program stay the same this year, however if the funding is not augmented by the other cities and the County, then they should be excluded from the program or participate only by paying a fee to supplement the City funding. C) POLICIES (F:30.1)(F:120.1) 1) Non Profit organizations. - City Manager Molendyk explained that the Council has $10,000 in their budget for community promotion and Council has allocated $10,000 from COBG funds for Non Profit Organizations. He stated that staff needs a clear policy on which groups pay for the Community Center and which groups don't; or which receive co-sponsorship of the City. Councilman Alongi stated that he felt that there should be a list of organizations that the Council will recognize and allow to use the Community Center. He stated that possibly the City should not co-sponsor fund raising events which are for the support of the organization and not for the community. city Manager Molendyk explained that he understood the concept of the money going back to the communi ty , but he requested direction in regard to the organizations which are non- profit that serve the valley. Councilman Alongi stated that the County does not contribute to the building, just as the majority of the Chamber of Commerce members are in the county, but the city picks up expenses for County businesses. Councilman Bender stated that there are some groups based in Lake Elsinore that are non-profit organizations and he stated that they should have access to the community Center on a limited fee basis or a no fee basis, and other groups which are non-profit and spread their good throughout the valley should have a fee set and all the others are at a separate fee. He cautioned that the Free basis is not good, but an application process with a limit to the amount of events for the use of the Communi ty Center is acceptable so that the ci ty can control the situation. PAGE SIXTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 Councilman Alongi stated that he did want to separate the use of the Community Center from the Cultural Center. He stated that the different organizations can utilize the Communi ty Center, but the use of the Cultural Center should be paid for. Councilman Bender stated that he did not want City Council becoming involved in favoritism or a political situation. He suggested that some reasonable guidelines and criteria be set for facility use, with staff empowered to carry them out. - Mayor Washburn asked that Community Services put a list together of the organizations that have requested use of the facility and identify which ones are 501C3; and which ones are more City versus County to get an idea of who the players are. City Manager Molendyk stated that the budget should not be held up for this, so he will place this as one of the goals of the Community services Department to establish a Non-Profit criteria. 2) Library. city Manager Molendyk explained that the City owns the Library building and the Library has notified the City that their budget has been cut. He advised that the County Library rents the building for $900 per month and noted that last year their budget had been cut and they had asked the City to do the necessary maintenance to the building and then bill the County for the repairs. They __ are now requesting a waiver of the $900 a month for the next two years. City Manager Molendyk stated that the City has been working with Wal-Mart to contribute to the Library. Mayor Washburn stated that he feels that the trend is for cities to take over their own Libraries. He noted that the County has not done as much for the City of Lake Elsinore as has been done for the City of Temecula, City of Riverside or other communities; and he felt that the City of Lake Elsinore should pressure them to step up and help fund a new library this year. He indicated in his opinion the City of Lake Elsinore has always been short changed by the County in the City library. He stated that he does not feel that we have pushed on them hard enough to get what this City needs, but with support from the Friends of the Library and the community's interest in the library, he feels that the City has more clout to get attention. Councilman Alongi stated that this library does service a lot of County children and families; and the City needs to take a stand on how City dollars are spent supporting other communities. He stated that the Library is very important, however there are many more needs which the ci ty is paying for and someone else is getting the benefit. Councilman Alongi stated that the Mayor is right that these items need to be addressed and resolved. .... PAGE SEVENTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 Mayor Washburn stated that the Friends of the Library raised funds for a computer for the Library, and now it si ts in a closet because the county will not fund training for the staff to learn to operate the computer. He stated that he felt that the city was being slighted again. councilman Bender stated that if they receive the break on the $900 rent, then they will allocate the money somewhere else and expect the city and the Friends of the Library to make up the short-fall again. councilman Pape stated that the county should be sent a letter stating that in lieu of raising the rent the city will accept the same rental payment to ~ive them a break. 3. Communitv Pool. Mayor Washburn asked if staff could study the feasibility of a community pool, because when the city has-tried to get an agreement with the School District, the pool is either broken and is being repair or they have entered into an agreement with Ortega Trails. He noted that Canyon Lake will not allow children from the city of Lake Elsinore to participate in programs in their pools arranged by Ortega Trails and expressed his anger in regard to that situation. He stated that he would like to see staff investigate all the requirements, funding and criteria to establish a City Community Pool. Councilman Pape suggested that the next time a large development occurrs, perhaps this could be a condition, in lieu of a park. City Manager Molendyk noted that the Council would like to pursue an aquatic center. He explained that it is not only the facility, but the maintenance and operation. He stated that some of the costs can be recovered, but the public swim part is absorbed by the city. councilman Alongi stated that he agreed with the Mayor and he also would like to have a community pool. He stated that he gets upset when the kids are excluded from other areas, but when the City does it they are the bad guys. He explained that some of the CDBG funds could be used to support a swim program and augment this with a pay program. City Manager Molendyk suggested that the Park-in-lieu fees be examined for this purpose. He stated that the majority of those fees will be used for some type of beach improvement, but part of the funds can be held back to give some preliminary conceptual costs of what an aquatic facility would cost. He stated that there is a difference between a city/School pool and an Aquatic Center and the report will identify the differences. councilman Bender stated that no resolution had been reached regarding the 4 Wheel Drive vehicle and the sedan. He stated that he felt that both vehicles should be purchased and let it be a push. Council concurred. PAGE EIGHTEEN - BUDGET STUDY SESSION - AUGUST 22, 1994 ADJOURNMENT THE JOINT CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BUDGET STUDY SESSION WAS ADJOURNED AT 11:20 A.M. - ATTEST: CLERK - ..."