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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-04-1992 City Council Study SessionMINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION CITY OF LAKE ELSINORE 545 CHANEY STREET LAKE ELSINORE, CALIFORNIA THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 1992 ******************************************************************************* CALL TO ORDER The Study Session was called to order at 2:03 p.m. ROLL CALL PRESENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: ALONGI, CHERVENY, DOMINGUEZ, WINKLER, WASHBURN ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: NONE Also present were: City Manager Molendyk, Assistant City Manager Rogers, Administrative Services Director Boone, Community Services Director Watenpaugh, Public Services Director Tecca, Community Development Manager Shear, City Planner Christen, Special Projects Coordinator Wood, City Treasurer Pape and City Clerk Kasad. DISCUSSION ITEM 1992 93 Fiscal Year Budqet (F:30.1) Police City Manager Molendyk explained that the intent of this session is to set goals and clarify the direction of the Council. He also explained that this presentatian is partially flexible and additions or deletions can be made. City Manage~ Molendyk addressed Police with regard to Municipal Department vs. Sheriff's Department; and with regard to the proposed Police Facility. He commented that he has received mixed signals from Council with regard to the Contract. He advised that the current proposal is to include two new officers; $30,000 for increased overtime to be used for special events and problem areas, and some allowance for specific equipment and training. He explained that the equipment and train~ing portion is based on input from the Sheriff's Department staff, based on the basic deficiencies highlighted at a recent meeting. With regard to the Police Facility, he explained that this was originally designed to meet the needs of the Sheriff's Department and if the possibility of a Municipal Department exists, the plan will need to be modified to serve that purpose. Mayor Washburn commented for the record that Law Enforcement was the top item of concern expressed by the Council. He also commented on recent studies and possibilities for "Community Based Policing". He clarified that the current question is this allocation and not the long term direction. City Manager Molendyk advised that his understanding is that the entire Council would support a new upgraded facility. Councilwoman Cherveny questioned the potential trade-offs by the Sheriff's - Department in exchange for the new building. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez stressed the need to determine the future direction, before looking at the facility. Councilman Winkler inquired whether a building could be built to accommodate either alternative. City Manager Molendyk commented that the existing design is for the Sheriff's Facility and may need to be re-evaluated and increased to PAGE TWO - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JUNE 4, 1992 make it usable for either situation. He also suggested the possibility of phasing the project. Councilman Winkler stated that he would not support the facility unless it was adequate for either alternative. Councilwoman Cherveny suggested the possibility of obtaining additional Sheriff services in exchange for the new building. Councilman Alongi questioned the proposed funding source for this facility. Mayor Washburn advised that it would be Redevelopment Agency funds. ,, Councilman Alongi concurred that he would not support a building which would not accommodate either option. He questioned adding on to the existing facility. City Manager Molendyk clarified that the recommendation is to build a larger facility which would meet the new codes. Councilwoman Cherveny supported the potential for phasing the project. Councilman Winkler concurred. City Manager Molendyk commented on the potential for funding this project through the use of Certificates of Participation, which would allow for construction to occur during this fiscal year. Councilwoman Cherveny further questioned the possibility of trade-off's for the building. Mayor Washburn commented that there may be a potential for lease-back or in kind services. City Manager Molendyk commented on the potential impacts of the State Budget and the possibility that the City would need to supplement the Sheriff's budget in the future. He stressed the need to review the current level vs. the desired level. Councilwoman Cherveny expressed concern with subsidizing the County. Mayor Washburn questioned the Sheriff's contract and what it inclu~s. Captain Daniels clarified that there is no cost included for maintenance, e c. City Manager Molendyk clarified possible cost offsets such as Cal I.D.,'Computer System, etc. Mayor Washburn suggested that John Ballew, Special Projects Planner, be asked to look at the plan and include expansions needed for a local police department. Councilman Alonqi inqaired whether there is a set design for police stations available. Captain Daniels advised that the design depends on the number of people at the facility, etc. Councilman Alongi further inquired whether there is a figure for a full facility versus what would be spent on the existing building. Mayor Washburn suggested that John Ballew come up with a figure. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez stressed the impact of community crime variables on the needs for the facility. City Manager Molendyk summarized that Council would like a design to ultimately accommodate a local department; once the design is complete, look at County participation; and bring back a financing package for Council approval. Councilman Winkler suggested that this may not be a top priority for this year. Mr. Molendyk clarified that he wants a feel for Council direction at this meeting and follow-up with prioritizing at the next meeting. Mayor Washburn suggested that it is not appropriate to look at other options at this time. He further suggested that this is an opportunity to make a stronger relationship between the City and the Sheriff's•Department. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez expressed concern with adding two deputies and not making long term decisions. He felt this would not solve anything because the County is looking at reductions. Councilman Alongi commented that he has gone on ride-alongs with the Sheriff's PAGE THREE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JUNE 4, 1992 Department, and he sees the distance between calls as excessive. He further commented that having additional officers could only help the response times and if the City can afford the two officers then the existing officers should receive that support. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez questioned when the City should talk local police department. Councilman Alongi suggested it should wait until the funding exists, as it currently does not. i Mayor Washburn suggested that it may be time to address staffing of public _ safety. Councilwoman Cherveny advised that she would like a Captain, officers, etc. for a total of four more people. Mayor Washburn inquired why the City of Temecula had discontinued its Captain's position. Captain Daniels advised that they would now be chargetl for that position. City Manager Molendyk advised that the Captain position had been discussed previously, however it would split the top seat and the County has offered a Lieutenant instead. Councilwoman Cherveny advised that she would not have a problem foregoing the Captain position; but she really sees the need for a traffic enforcement position to be funded through traffic citations. City Manager Molendyk clarified that approximately $250,000 is earmarked for Sheriff's officers, and explained the costs of variable services such as motorcycles, etc. Councilwoman Cherveny commented that the City of Norco may be eliminating their motorcycle program. City Manager Molendyk also commented on this and suggested that a better price might be available for the motorcycles themselves. Councilman Alongi questioned the advantages of motorcycles over the patrol cars. Captain Daniels advised that the biggest advantage is visibility, however, there are not a lot of places they can be used in this City and cars are prefer~le. Councilman Alongi questioned money for code enforcement. City Manager Molendyk clarified that Code Enforcement is a separate issue; Sheriff deputies are not being used for garage sale signs, etc. Councilman Alongi further questioned parking enforcement, etc. City Manager Molendyk explained that this is handled by deputies and the four Community Services Officers. Councilwoman Cherveny questioned the possibility of hiring additional Community Services Officers for more positions. City Manager Molendyk clarified the proposed budget for the Sheriff's Department and explained that items can be shifted, but additional money is not really a factor. Councilman Wink7er questioned the amount of income from citations. Captain Daniels cautioned that a portion of this may still be shifted to the State as part of their budget balancing. Fire City Manager Molendyk commented that the Fire Station at Lincoln and Machado should be completed by the end of 1993. He explained that the Council needs to be planning for future funding of approximately $1 million per year to staff it. He also commented on the proposed Fire Station at I-15 and Railroad '`~~ Canyon Road. Lake City Manager Molendyk commented on the proposed budget for the Lake which would currently be Redevelopment Agency monies to plan for the future transfer. He also commented on the enforcement responsibilities which will come with the transfer. It is anticipated that 1 Sargeant. and 5 officers will be needed to PAGE FOUR - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JUNE 4, 1992 staff the Lake. Staff is currently looking at the costs for the Lake, which are now estimated at over $3 million. Economic Develooment City Manager Molendyk advised staff is continuing to work on major retail to draw jobs, income, convenience and an entertainment center. Mayor Washburn stressed the need to set aside funds for economic development targeting and business attraction to the Community. Lake Manaaement City Manager Molendyk advised that a financial plan is being developed for . upgrading of the Lake. He detailed the status of prior projects and discussions for maintenance of the level of the Lake. Councilman Winkler questioned the time line for completion of the Outflow Channel. City Manager Molendyk advised that it will begin in January, 1993, with an 18 month schedule for completion. Councilwoman Cherveny stressed the insurance requirements for the Lake. City Manager Molendyk commented on the insurance limitations of the Joint Powers Insurance Authority and the need to obtain further coverage. Downtown Neiqhborhood City Manager Molendyk advised that the Assessment District behind City Hall is ready to move forward. Circulation & Traffic City Manager Molendyk commented on the collection of fees from new development. Councilwoman Cherveny commented on the Green "Welcome to Lake Elsi~re" Signs and suggested marquee type signs at entrances to the City. City Ma ager Molendyk commented on the difficulty in placing them at this time based on continuing expansion of the City Limits. City Manager Molendyk also commented on previous discussions of making Lakeshore Drive a four lane road. He advised that recent information seems to indicate increased concerns with speeding, etc. if this is completed; which could impact the potential for tourism. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez questioned the ability to accommodate emergency vehicles. Mayor Washburn suggested the use of Strickland as an alternative. Discussion ensued with regard to Lakeshore Drive, the right-of-way monies set aside and the potential cost of the entire project. The possibility of reconstructing the Pottery Street bridge was also discussed. City Manager Molendyk highlighted the Recap of Adjusted General Fund Revenue and Expenditures for fiscal year 1992-92 and the 1992-93 Forecasts and Projections. He clarified that the projected net gain does not include the Reserves. He advised that possible new fees for the upcoming fiscal year could include non-resident fees for services, and a utility tax such as the one in Moreno Valley. Councilman Winkler questioned the limitations of a utility tax. Mr. Molendyk advised that it could be held for General Fund money. Councilwoman Cherveny clarified that this tax would require a 4/5ths vote of Council to implement. Councilwoman Cherveny questioned the possibility of implementing an entertainment tax before the theaters, etc. are in place. Mayor Washburn expressed concern that this would not assist in attracting businesses. Further discussion ensued regarding road assessment fees, transient occupancy tax, etc. The possible loss of Vehicle License Fees to the State was also discussed. Councilwoman Cherveny suggested that it might be appropriate to review the existing contracts to assure that they are working to the City's advantage, particularly in the case ef BSI versus the use of "City" staff. City Manager _ PAGE FIVE - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JUNE 4, 1992 Molendyk clarified that a Cost Recovery System is being used in that area and the Consultants are intended to be support to the staff on an as needed basis. He further clarified that it is uncertain whether full-time City staff would be appropriate because of the fluctuating workloads. He also explained that the Cost Recovery System requires that the Developers pay for actual staff time used. Mayor Washburn inquired whether the M.S.I. Study System had been fully implemented. Administrative Services Director Boone advised that the Cost Recovery System was the final step. Councilman Winkler questioned programs the City is currently subsidizing and requested a memo detailing them. City Treasurer Pape commented on the possibility of subsidizing some programs for the City's residents, but questioned the need to subsidize County residents. Mr. Pape suggested that the non-resident fees be considered. City Manager Molendyk again commented that the main purpose of this meeting is for highlighting the proposed budget and obtaining Council feedback. Another session will follow to answer questions and address specific projects. He further commented that the proposed budget is balanced. He advised that money has been allowed for Cost of Living increases and Merit increases due to union requirements. Councilwoman Cherveny requested clarification of specific positions. Public Works Manager Payne explained that Public Works Administration funds his position, a secretary and office supplies and Street Maintenance includes the Graffiti Program. Captain Daniels explained that the Community Service Officers are used for report taking, property damage matters, traffic accidents, street sweeper follow-up. He also explained that there are CSO's on duty 7 days a week. City Manager Molendyk commented on the ability to shift the priorities for the CSO's if desired. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez inquired about the Los Angeles volunteer program in which volur~teers are used for answering phones and processing paperwork, and suggested that this be organized for our station. Captain Daniels advised that there is some of this volunteer work occurring, and interested people can be referred to him for information. Mayor Washburn inquired how many volunteers could be utilized. Captain Daniels suggested that 2 per day, 7 days per week would be helpful to help free up office staff. Councilwoman Cherveny questioned the ability to use volunteers for security. Captain Daniels explained that the need for training would be prohibitive for that use. Councilman Alongi questioned the status of Community Service Officers within the Department. Captain Daniels advised that they are not police officers, they are non-sworn civilian aides or service officers. They assist with evidence, take reports on past burglaries and thefts, etc. Councilwoman Cherveny inquired based on 4 CSO's now, how many more are needed to be able to enforce street sweeping, etc. City Manager Molendyk stressed that it is not necessarily a matter of more officers, but a matter of how they are deployed. He further explained that if an officer is assigned to follow the sweeper every day for two months, the public will become educated and enforcement would not need to occur every day. Captain Daniels clarified that even if an officer is assigned to that duty every day, there is still the potential that a higher priority might preclude a portion of the time the - officer would be following the sweeper. Councilman Alongi expressed concern that money is being spent for street sweeping and the parking restrictions are not being enforced to allow for thorough cleaning. Discussion ensued regarding the use of CSO's for Street Sweeping, the difficulty of collecting the citations through the court, other priorities impacting enforcement, and the potential that the State will take away more of the parking related citations. PAGE SIX - CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - JUNE 4, 1992 Mayor Washburn requested information on Community Development Block Grant Funding. Community Services Director Watenpaugh explained that these are federal funds passed through to the County and allocated to the cities for projects involving removal of blight, sidewalks, park facilities, property acquisition, etc. Councilman Winkler questioned the funding for Machado Park Restrooms. City Manager Molendyk explained that those improvements are to be funded by park in-lieu fees and the fund is not adequate at this time to fund the improvements. Community Services Director Watenpaugh clarified the projections for in-lieu fees based on the current building activity. Councilman Winkler advised that he would really like to see the Machado Restroom facility funded. Transferring CDBG funds was discussed with regard to Yarborough Park. Mr. Watenpaugh explained that at this time it is important to finish Yarborough Park to show the County that facilities are being completed. He also explained that the City would need to reapproach the County to have the funds reallocated. Mayor Pro Tem Dominguez suggested a commercial venture to assist with Machado Park. Councilman Alongi question the square footage of A.C. to be completed for $200,000. Staff advised that the Country Club Heights project was 11 miles at a cost of $400,000. Public Services Director Tecca clarified the funding sources for the 1992/93 Capital Budget projections. City Manager Molendyk clarified the flexible points in the Capital Projects budget which amount to approximately $105,000. Councilman Alongi stressed that he wants to find $200,000 for paving of streets. Mayor Washburn suggested the ability to make changes at mid-year review. Councilman Winkler commented on the septic problems in the Amber Ridge tract and stressed the moral obligation to assist the residents. Councilman Alongi advised that he would want a payback arrangement for assisting with'these improvements. Mayor Washburn suggested that staff continue to work~through the process and review alternatives. Mayor Washburn advised that when employee negotiations are conducted, the Cost- of-Living and Merit increases agreed upon will be for rank and file only, with Management to be discussed in October or November. City Treasurer Pape commented on the existing arrangement with the Chamber of Commerce and suggested that the rent charged for their building be more equitable with the costs to the City. Mayor Washburn clarified the existing arrangement and the rent being charged based on $.62 per square foot for the space they use. As a trade-off, they assist with set up for City meetings in the Conference Room. City Manager Molendyk reminded the Council of opportunities to adjust the budget mid-year and reminded the Finance Committee of their next meeting on June 11, 1992, at 2:00 p.m. After discussion, the next City Council Budget Study Session was set for June 17, 1992, at 1:00 p.m. wit.h confirming notices to be provided. Mayor Washburn reminded the Council of the upcoming Economic Development Conference on June 18, 1992, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Murrieta Hot Springs followed by the Western Riverside Council of Governments Workshop and Annual Meeting scheduled for the same day beginning at 1:30 p.m. THE CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION WAS ADJ RNED AT 5:20 P.M. ~ 1/~~b~ ~ GARY . WASHBURN, MAYOR CIT 0 LAKE'ELSINORE ERK CITY OF LAKE ELSiNORE