City Council Minutes
Special Meeting – May 31, 2022 1
MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
SPECIAL MEETING
MAY 31, 2022
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Special City Council Meeting on May 31, 2022, at 2:01 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, with Mayor Pacheco presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Blanca Pacheco Mayor
Catherine Alvarez Mayor Pro Tem
Claudia M. Frometa Council Member
Donald E. La Plante Council Member
Mario Trujillo Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Gilbert Livas, City Manager
Lauren Langer, Interim City Attorney
Anil Gandhy, Director of Finance
Linda Thai, Deputy City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMENT ON SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Pacheco asked Deputy City Clerk Thai if any written public comments were received regarding Special Meeting Agenda Items. Deputy City Clerk Thai confirmed one written public comment was received.
Alistair Hunter, resident, commented in support of including a line item in the 2022-2023 budget for arts, culture, and history.
Mayor Pacheco asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Special Meeting Agenda Items.
BC, resident, commented regarding taxes imposed on residents, funding for non-essential services, reduction in spending, and the budget surplus.
Having no one else, Mayor Pacheco closed public comment.
BUDGET STUDY SESSION
1. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF FISCAL YEAR 2022-2023 PROPOSED CITY BUDGET:
Finance.
City Manager Livas presented a brief overview of the proposed annual City budget. He shared the budget would be his 10th consecutive balanced budget presented to the City Council and totaled $249 million. He announced the City is amongst the lowest in per capita employees in 10 cities surveyed. He highlighted $35 million in funding for residential road improvements, $100 million in funding for infrastructure improvements, and funding for public safety. He reminded the Council of the February City Council Goals Workshop to set priorities for the budget. He commented regarding the process of developing the budget.
Director Gandhy provided a presentation regarding the proposed annual City budget. He stated for the FY 2022-23 Budget there is a beginning fund reserve of $32,521,230, proposed revenues in the
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amount of $103,326,555, and a surplus of $319,348. He noted a request from the Police Department to account for $300,000 to add one Police Officer and one Safety Dispatcher position, leaving a surplus of $19,348. He shared the anticipated ending fund balance of $32,540,578, an increase from the ending fund balance of approximately $27 million in the previous fiscal year. He stated the policy requirement is 35% of the budget should be in reserves.
Director Gandhy provided an overview of the City’s estimated revenue for FY 2022-23 as $103,326,555. He stated the property tax revenue would be $33,228,037, with an increase of $1,293,764 from the prior fiscal year. City Manager Livas added the property tax and sales tax revenue are almost equal and noted the City’s efforts to increase economic development over the past four or five years. He shared the efforts to become a business-friendly city, grow the local economy, and provide high-end jobs in the medical field due to the medical overlay zone. He shared the increase to sales tax revenues enables funding for public safety and other services. He stated the sales tax revenue figures would not have been possible without the economic development program.
Director Gandhy noted the property tax revenues are a fixed rate from L.A. County and the assessed value for the City is approximately $14.5 billion with an increase of $500 million. He provided assessed real estate values for neighboring cities for comparison. He noted an increase of $4,013,986 in sales tax revenue from the prior year and anticipated a continued increase in the following year. He shared the top three sales tax sources are auto sales, online sales, and restaurant sales. He compared sales tax revenue from brick and mortar sales and online sales and noted a 500% increase in online sales revenue. He stated online sales were crucial during the pandemic not only for the City but Statewide. He shared the $4 million increase in sales tax revenue from $30,411,728 to $34,425,714 and stated the actual revenue may be higher than the budgeted amount. He attributed the $800,000 increase in Utility User Tax (UUT) revenues to an increase in electric and gas usage and noted telephone fee revenues have decreased due to decreased use of landlines and various cell phone deals. He shared the franchise fee and JPCC and ambulance revenues would remain roughly the same. He stated the City receives approximately $3 million from ambulance billing and $1 million from contracts for services to neighboring cities. He noted an additional $500,000 in Transient Occupancy Tax revenue from the Marriott Hotel coming to the City and $500,000 from recreational classes due to the resumption of class offerings. He shared a decrease to revenues from charges to other funds because the City is not charging Prop A and CDBG funds. He stated there would be an increase in transfers from other funds because of an increase in gas tax revenues, which provides reimbursement for street improvement costs. He explained the $1.3 million transfer from restricted General Fund due to the General Plan update. He summarized an increase of $8,531,217 from the prior year.
Council Member Frometa expressed her gratitude to Director Gandhy and City Manager Livas for balancing the budget for the 10th year despite challenges such as the pandemic. She lauded the City’s commitment to public safety. Director Gandhy commented regarding the City’s ability to balance the budget without affecting the reserve fund. Council Member Frometa commented regarding the Council’s initial concerns regarding the effect of the pandemic on the City’s budget and the actual budget increase in the current fiscal year. Director Gandhy responded the City’s fund balance is back to normal. Council Member Frometa reiterated her compliments regarding the City’s commitment to maintaining a balanced budget and its commitment to residents.
Director Gandhy presented the various sources of the General Fund Revenue. He mentioned the major sources of revenue are derived from property tax, sales tax, and UUT for a total of 72% of revenue.
He presented the sources of revenue by category and compared FY 2021-22 to FY 2022-23. He highlighted increases in sales tax revenue, UUT revenue, and overall increases in revenue sources.
Council Member La Plante commented regarding the importance of the City receiving its fair share of online sales tax revenues. Director Gandhy concurred with his statement.
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Director Gandhy presented a general overview of the City’s projected general fund expenditures as $103,007,207. He stated the reason for the increasing in spending was due to the structure of the pension obligation bonds allowing for savings in the first year. He compared the PERS costs of $11,735,052 in FY 2015-16 and projected PERS costs of $23,628,322 in FY 2025-26 and stated that he was able to lower the PERS costs.
Council Member La Plante inquired how the City was able to save money. Director Gandhy responded the City’s total unfunded liability is $212 million and the City was able to refinance $112 million of that amount. He shared the PERS interest rate is 7% while the PERS Bond interest rate is 2.6%, which is one of the lowest in the region. He stated the total savings was $60 million and the City took $4 million of those savings in the first year. Council Member La Plante summarized that the City issued bonds to prepay the PERS liability. City Manager Livas confirmed this was correct and the City was paying at a lower interest rate.
Council Member Frometa added that the PERS interest rate was a historic low. Director Gandhy stated the City’s pension obligation was 67% funded at the time of issuance and the unfunded liability is now approximately 85% funded.
Director Gandhy commented regarding expenditure increases, including $100,000 in contractual services to manage public records requests, $257,000 for election services for the November 2022 election, and the addition of two School Resource Officers. City Manager Livas clarified the City is working on an agreement for the Downey Unified School District to pay 100% of the costs for the School Resource Officers. He shared the Officers will be patrolling for the City Officers when they are not working for the school. He stated the City added one additional Police Officer position to monitor speeding and address issues in the Downtown area and one additional full-time Safety Dispatcher position to decrease overtime staffing.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the total budgeted cost per Police Officer. Director Gandhy responded the cost is $180,000 per Police Officer or $200,000 including overtime costs. Council Member La Plante commented regarding requests for additional staffing at schools. City Manager Livas shared the City hired 10 additional officers through Measure S funding and added public safety is not inexpensive at approximately $200,000 per person.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding the number of Police Officers currently employed by the City.
City Manager Livas estimated that the Police Department currently has 121 officers.
Director Gandhy stated that personnel costs encompass the majority of expenditures. He added the Parks and Recreation Department will have a full staffing of part-timers and the budget increased due to $300,000 in funding for the Theatre and $135,000 for Downtown events. He mentioned $1.3 million in the Community Development Department expenditures for the General Plan update. He noted the largest transfers out of the General Fund is $1.3 million to subsidize the Columbia Memorial Space Center. He commented regarding the almost equivalent year to date change in revenues and expenditures.
Director Gandhy provided a list of future capital needs the City would be addressing with the $13 million in proceeds from the one-time real property sale of the Kaiser property.
Council Member Frometa requested to clarify the $13,869,000 is from the sale of the property and the funds have been allocated for future capital needs. City Manager Livas clarified the property is located on Bellflower Blvd., next to the Downey Promenade. He added the property is seven acres of land for which the City has been negotiating with Kaiser over the past year and a half. He highlighted purchases such as the ladder truck and ambulance for the Fire Department to provide public safety. He noted the items would typically be paid from the General Fund through a lease and the purchase of the items generated a cost savings to the General Fund. He shared the $4 million in funding for the Space
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Center supplemented a $5.8 million grant from the State, which was not sufficient for the costs of the new building that would serve as the new home of the Space Shuttle Inspiration.
Council Member La Plante requested to clarify that of the roughly $10 million needed, $6 million would be funded by the State and $4 million would be funded by the City. City Manager Livas confirmed this was correct. He provided an overview of improvement projects, cost of living adjustments, and funding to close out Measure S the City would need to account for.
Director Gandhy mentioned Police and Fire Department costs account for 65% of expenditures, which matches the 66% of revenues derived from property and sales taxes. He provided a general overview of the full-time staff. He advised regarding five proposed new positions, including the four Police Department positions previously discussed, and the conversion of a part-time Social Media Intern position to full-time. He noted the changes would increase the number of full-time staff members to a total of 430.
He shared the reclassification of the positions of Associate Civil Engineer – Utilities to Senior Civil Engineer – Utilities and Maintenance Worker II to Maintenance Leadworker.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding the cost of a Communications Director. City Manager Livas responded that the role of a Communications Director requires staff to supervise and the City has one staff member dedicated to social media and communications. He commented regarding staffing costs and the amount of work meriting conversion of the part-time Social Media Intern position to a full- time position. Council Member Frometa commented regarding the value of a Communications Supervisor to augment communications in addition to social media. City Manager Livas responded Management Analyst Montenegro is the Public Information Officer supervising the Social Media Intern, the Council has approved a contract with Media Consultant Tripepi Smith, and the City consults with media professionals on an as-needed basis. He stated that staff can monitor the need for additional communications staff.
Director Gandhy provided an economic overview for the United States, the State of California, Los Angeles County, and Downey. He shared the trends in gross domestic product, consumer price index (CPI), unemployment rates, the housing market, and sales tax growth indicate the economy is recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. He presented budget challenges, including trepidation regarding projected growth, sales and property tax revenue, supply chain disruptions, historically high inflation, housing shortages, increasing CPI, and prudent management of expenditures and alignment to revenue projections in order to maintain a balanced budget and avoid program, service, and employee cuts.
City Manager Livas announced the Department Heads would present highlights and important accomplishments for their individual Departments.
Director Gandhy presented the Finance Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22 for the five divisions he oversees: Administration, General Accounting, Revenue, Non-Departmental, and Information Technology. He highlighted the maintenance of the City’s AA+ Bond rating and the submission of a balanced budget.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding an explanation of the City’s AA+ Bond Rating.
Director Gandhy responded this refers to the investment bond rating and explained the rating system. He shared the highest possible rating is AAA+, which is very rare, and that AA+ is the highest achievable for the City’s demographics. He stated that the City was able to obtain a 2.6% interest rate for its pension obligations bonds while other cities with a AAA+ obtained higher interest rates. City Manager Livas compared the rating to a consumer’s credit score and stated a higher rating enables to City to borrow money at a lower interest rate than those with a lower rating.
Director Gandhy provided the presentation for the Finance Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23.
He highlighted the update of the City’s five-year financial projections and their current work with a Cost Allocation Consultant. He shared that most of the goals were related to Information Technology.
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Information Technology & Systems Manager Lam provided the presentation for the Information Technology Division’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22. He emphasized the Division’s focus on cyber security and upgrading the City’s backup technology to meet cyber insurance requirements.
Information Technology & Systems Manager Lam provided the presentation for the Information Technology Division’s Goals for FY 2022-23. He reiterated the Division’s focus on cyber security.
Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas provided the presentation for the City Manager’s Office Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: coordinated mid-manager and city-wide staff trainings; completed the redistricting process; implemented the Shower of Hope program; completed oversight of Measure S projects; successfully managed American Rescue Plan stimulus funds; expanded promotion of the Downey Store at City events; coordinated various ribbon cuttings for Measure S projects; reinstituted the Business Watch program with the Police Department and Chamber of Commerce; continued informing the public of COVID-19 information through social media platforms and the website; increased followers across all social media platforms; produced various City videos; and, held successful community events such as the as the Veterans Day Ceremony, Tree Lighting ceremony, Downey One Day of Service event, and Holiday Caravans.
Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas presented the Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23:
explore online system for ADA requests and complaints; continue to increase social media followers/presence; increase ongoing public communication regarding City awards and achievements; hold and expand the Girls on Fire program; host a mental health event with the Youth Commission; use of Flash Vote program for satisfaction surveys and community input; hold Team Up to Clean Up event and Volunteer Clean-Up Service Day; and, place a Transient Occupancy Tax measure on the November ballot.
Human Resources Manager Vera provided the presentation for the Human Resources Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: conducted recruitment and selection processes establishing 98 eligibility/hiring lists to meet City staffing needs resulting in the hiring of 42 full -time and 114 part-time employees, including eight Police Officers and five Firefighter Paramedics; processed 772 Personnel Status Reports for authorized payroll actions; and, offered 11 training sessions on a wide range of topics including Harassment Prevention, Supervisory Skills, Performance Evaluations, and COVID Employment Issues; City’s Employee COVID Response including maintaining the COVID Prevention Plan in accordance with Cal-OSHA requirements, COVID Leave Policies, and responding to over 280 employee related COVID inquiries; expanded use of City’s online training program; revised City’s Administrative Regulations regarding Family Care and Medical Care Leaves; and, updated full- time and part-time employee evaluation forms.
Human Resources Manager Vera provided the presentation for the Human Resources Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23: engage in Labor Negotiations with Downey Firemen’s Association and Downey Fire Management Association; engage in Labor Negotiations with Downey Police Officers' Association and Downey Police Management Association; engage in Labor Negotiations with Downey City Employees' Association-Miscellaneous Unit, Downey City Employees' Association-Maintenance Unit and the Downey Public Safety Auxiliary Association; continue to expand the use of a web-based training program; and, conduct 10-20 employee training courses throughout the year including, but not limited to, Enhancing Supervisory Skills; Conducting Effective Performance Evaluations; Managing Employee Safety and Risk; Exercising Management Rights; and Harassment Prevention in the Workplace.
Deputy City Clerk Thai provided the presentation for the City Clerk’s Office’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: collaborated with the City Attorney to fill the Council District 2 Vacancy; managed a ballot measure initiative; collaborated with the L.A. County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk to host two Vote Centers at City facilities for the June 7, 2022 Primary Election; received and processed over 650 Public
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Records Requests to date; received and processed over 60 Subpoenas, Summons and Claims combined; and, processed and tracked over 80 City Council approved Agreements and/or Contracts.
Deputy City Clerk Thai provided the presentation for the City Clerk’s Office’s Goals for FY 2022- 23: manage the November 8, 2022 General Municipal Election for City Council Districts 2 and 4; update the City’s Records Retention Schedule to remain compliant with all laws; conduct the Biennial Review and update of the City’s Conflict of Interests Code; host AB 1234 Ethics Training for City officials, staff and Board/Commission Members; finalize implementation of Agenda Management Software and train City staff on the process; and, identify and implement an electronic Public Records Request (PRR) Management Software.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding whether the update of the Conflict of Interests Code would affect the City Council’s reporting. Ms. Thai responded the update is a routine biennial practice to review whether changes need to be made to the list of Form 700 filers. She added the update would not apply to the City Council as Council Members are required to file Statements of Economic Interests pursuant to Government Code 87200.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the number of individual requesters filing Public Records Requests. Ms. Thai confirmed many companies and individuals submit multiple requests but could not provide the specific numbers. Council Member La Plante commented regarding individuals submitting multiple Public Records Requests. City Manager Livas responded every city has groups of people who continuously submit requests for information as well as companies submitting multiple requests due to their commercial interests in the city.
Executive Director Dickow provided the presentation for the Columbia Memorial Space Center’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: return of in-person events including Rocket Fever and City of STEM and on-site programs; launched the design process for the Space Center expansion; began expansion of the Girls in STEM Club program; and, secured foundation funding for Space Center programming.
Executive Director Dickow provided the presentation for the Columbia Memorial Space Center’s Goals for FY 2022-23: groundbreaking for Space Center expansion building; beginning rehabilitation of Space Shuttle Inspiration; refresh Challenger Learning Center, A/V system and Robotics Lab; expand community programming; resume full service in-person field trips with school district partners; increase digital presence of Space Center; and, launch capital campaign for Space Center expansion projects.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the location and size of the Space Center expansion. Executive Director Dickow responded the expansion would be located in a field along Columbia Way and, while the project is still in the design process, he shared the desired size of between 15-20,000 square feet to house the shuttle and accommodate large gatherings. Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the size of the current Space Center building. Executive Director Dickow responded the current building is approximately 18,000 square feet. Council Member La Plante requested to confirm the two buildings would be roughly the same size. Executive Director Dickow confirmed his statement. Council Member La Plante requested to confirm the Space Shuttle Inspiration would be placed in the new building. Executive Director Dickow confirmed this was correct . Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the school districts the Space Center will service for field trips. Executive Director Dickow responded that due to its location, the Space Center collaborates with Downey Unified School District (DUSD), Long Beach Unified School District, Bellflower Unified School District, and ABC Unified School District. He shared the heaviest usage of the Space Center during the COVID-19 pandemic was DUSD and Los Angeles Unified School District and the Space Center is restarting its relationships with school districts in the new school year. Council Member La Plante commented regarding service of school districts to the north of Downey such as Montebello Unified School District and El Rancho Unified School District. Executive Director Dickow responded Montebello Unified School District will start a Girls in STEM program and commented regarding the opportunity to partner with the District.
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Council Member Frometa inquired whether the Space Center would be hosting in-person summer camps. Executive Director Dickow responded the five-week summer space camp is already sold out and stated three levels would be provided for early childhood, elementary, and junior high school students.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding the anticipated groundbreaking for the Space Center expansion. Executive Director Dickow responded the project is too early to approximate a date and stated the groundbreaking ceremony would take place the following year.
Executive Director Dickow provided the presentation for the Downey Library’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: resumption of in-person library services, opening of workshop programming, production of the first annual Beyond the Book Festival, resumption of periodical subscriptions, and expansion of digital resources.
Executive Director Dickow provided the presentation for the Downey Library’s Goals for FY 2022- 23: continue to increase accessibility to Library materials; expand the Beyond the Book Festival; launch full studio programming options; begin early-childhood outreach program; grow City-related programming; implement the Library Strategic Plan; and, expand social media outreach.
Mayor Pro Tem Alvarez inquired regarding plans for a new café outside of the Library. Executive Director Dickow responded that the Library needs to restart the Request for Proposals process and shared the previous operator’s decision not to return. Mayor Pro Tem Alvarez inquired whether the door adjacent to the location would be operational. Executive Director Dickow responded the door would be operational before the café opens.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the imposition of library fines. Executive Director Dickow responded many local library systems have gone fine-free and this is something the Library is considering.
Director Chacon provided the presentation for the Parks and Recreation Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: continued to explore grants for potential park renovations; worked with a new golf concession vendor and existing contractors at Rio Hondo Golf Club to increase banquets and tournaments to increase revenue to fund the ongoing maintenance of the facility and golf course; increased events at the Downey Theatre; and, re-introduced programming, including special events post COVID-19.
Director Chacon provided the presentation for the Parks and Recreation Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23: explore grants for potential park renovations in existing parks that still need improvements; explore creating an annual Volunteer Recognition event; complete the installation of new playgrounds and surfacing at Temple and Crawford Parks; explore potential for increasing park acreage through right of way partnerships and/or redevelopment of current parcels; and, develop and expand additional adaptive programming with social and enrichment programs and include an Adaptive Recreation section with quarterly programming, workshops and social development.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding incorporation of swimming classes for children with special needs. Director Chacon responded all programs are geared toward all ability levels and noted the City is unable to host classes specific to special needs due to staffing shortages. He shared staff works with parents of children with special needs to offer accommodations. He stated other cities have moved away from offering classes solely for students with special needs and the City refers students to cities that are able to offer these classes. Council Member Frometa inquired how the City is informing residents of the available recreational programs. Director Chacon responded residents are notified through the quarterly brochure and other publications, which advise residents to contact staff with any special requests. He stated the summer camp program is handled similarly, with requests that parents work with the program supervisor to accommodate special needs.
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Council Member La Plante inquired whether the Golf Course operates at a surplus or deficit.
Director Chacon responded the Golf Course operates at a deficit and funds are part of an enterprise fund, which is not connected to the General Fund. He commented regarding the popularity of golf as a sport and shared activity has risen 9% compared to a decrease of 37% in Los Angeles County. He elaborated the Golf Course is comprised of three sections: the golf course, maintenance, and weddings and banquets. He shared weekends at the Golf Course are completely booked with weddings and banquets through next year. He stated the golf section continues to do well and has been in a surplus for the past year and a half. Council Member La Plante inquired whether the Golf Course is self-sufficient. Director Chacon responded the Golf Course pays an annual obligation bond from the building of the golf course and otherwise is self-sufficient.
Council Member La Plante questioned whether the Theatre is self-sufficient. Director Chacon responded the Theatre operates at a deficit and the City Council has prioritized arts and culture in the City. He stated the Theatre Subcommittee reviews the annual programming and determines the amount subsidized. He shared the Theatre is currently subsidized with $600,000 annually. City Manager Livas added that theatres run by municipalities generally operate at a deficit and, in most cases, theatres are subsidized and considered amenities in the same manner as parks. He stated few municipal theatres make money or break even.
Council Member Trujillo inquired regarding the population serviced and amount of subsidy for the La Mirada Theatre. Director Chacon responded that the City of La Mirada subsidizes their theater in the amount of over $1.5 million. He stated Downey Theatre’s business model includes six to eight presenting shows selected by the Theatre Subcommittee and the rest of the programming is provided by rental clients that bring in revenue. He noted the Theatre was in use 225-240 days prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. He compared this to the La Mirada Theatre, which requires higher subsidy because it presents more shows and fewer rental performances. City Manager Livas stated the La Mirada Theatre is a producing theater, which is costlier.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding the sports offered in the Special Olympics. Director Chacon responded the City offers basketball, softball, soccer, and swimming and works with DUSD to provide coaching and host events at DUSD schools. He shared the City is one of the biggest partners of the Southern California Special Olympics and the organization reached out to the City for assistance when re-opening for in-person events. He shared the City serves as a trial for new sports introduced due to its 80 athletes in the program. Mayor Pacheco commented regarding participation from athletes in other cities. Director Chacon responded participation is for residents and non-residents and the City receives many participants from outside the community.
Interim Director Landavazo provided the presentation for the Community Development Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: establishment of an affordable housing subcommittee; adoption of the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance; completion of the Rancho South Campus Specific Plan; established design guidelines for single-family residential zones; and, continued support to residents and businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interim Director Landavazo provided the presentation for the Community Development Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23: foster Downtown Downey growth and promotion by attracting retail, restaurant, and housing developments; continue assisting in the economic growth of the City by facilitating the revitalization and development of all of our commercial corridors; continue to support residents and business with COVID-19 financial assistance; implement electronic permitting services; develop a historical preservation program; seek initiatives assisting the transient community; completion of the Rancho South Campus Sports Complex; restoration of the former NASA/Vultee building; complete the Housing Element Update; establish design guidelines for single-family residential zones; develop the Promenade Back 20; and, explore creating relationships with shopping centers to create a permit parking system for apartment renters.
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Council Member Frometa inquired regarding the restoration of the former NASA/Vultee building.
Interim Director Landavazo responded the acquisition of the building has been a major priority for the City and upon completion of the process to acquire the building, the Department will begin planning for future use.
Council Member Trujillo inquired regarding steps taken to create relationships with shopping centers to create a permit parking system for apartment renters. Interim Director Landavazo responded staff has completed initial outreach to commercial centers and property management companies. She shared feedback providing initial concerns regarding insurance and liability in case of vandalism of vehicles parked overnight. She stated staff is researching contacting other cities regarding successful partnerships and learning best practices to share with concerned property owners. Council Member Trujillo requested to research establishing safe parking zones in each district where permit parking may be available on street sweeping days.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the status of the former American Legion property.
Interim Director Landavazo responded the property is owned by L.A. County and staff is working with the County on the project. She shared the project is in the development phase, wherein staff is reviewing plans and working on a tentative approval to enable the County to apply for funding sources.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the historic designation of the NASA/Vultee building. Interim Director Landavazo responded that the building was one of the few remaining NASA buildings intact enough to be qualified as a historic resource by the Secretary of the Interior and once qualified, the building cannot be demolished or altered unless compliant with requirements for historic properties. City Manager Livas added the NASA/Vultee building is the only remaining building from the former NASA site.
Council Member La Plante commented the appearance of the NASA/Vultee building. City Manager Livas commented regarding adaptive re-use of the building, partnership with DUSD, and potential uses as an industrial office space, a facility for STEM-related programming, and an incubator.
He commented regarding the size of the property and the acquisition of the property at no cost. Council Member La Plante commented regarding making use of the property soon.
Council Member La Plante commented regarding the conversion of Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall for transitional housing and outreach to the community. City Manager Livas commented regarding the opportunities provided by development of large parcels of land such as Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall and Rancho South Campus and the effect on the neighborhood. Council Member La Plante commented regarding access to the Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall site and the flow of traffic. City Manager Livas responded the City will develop remedies to allow the site to fit the community.
Chief Murray provided the presentation for the Police Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: hired 15 new employees, including eight new Police Officers, hosted the first National Night Out in two years; resumed homeless outreach efforts; resumed Coffee with a Cop event; resumed Drug Take Back event; initiated Special Needs Awareness program; increased training for street racing enforcement detail; received a $400,000 grant from Behavioral Health Services Project for additional mental health services; and, hosted the first Youth Academy class.
Chief Murray provided the presentation for the Police Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23:
maintain community outreach through social media and programs such as National Night Out and Coffee with a Cop; continue partnership with Federal Drug Enforcement Agency and host Drug Take Back events; expand social presence; conduct more homeless outreach with Behavioral Health Justice Intervention grant; start Police Drone program; host Citizen/Youth Academies; start a Facility Dog program; and, promote school safety through collaborative efforts with DUSD.
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Council Member Frometa inquired regarding how often the Youth Academy would be held. Chief Murray responded the Youth Academy would be hosted at least once a year and possibly twice a year.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding motorcycle officers and what percentage of traffic citations the City receives. Chief Murray responded that more motorcycle officers would be beneficial because traffic and street racing are issues in Downey. She stated motor officers are able to navigate through traffic and respond to an emergency call more quickly. She stated she was unable to cite the percentage of funds from traffic citations as the primary goal is public safety rather than to serve as a source of funding. She shared their primary function is traffic enforcement, minimize primary collision factors, to serve as a deterrent, and induce drivers to comply with the rules of the road. Council Member La Plante requested the figures for traffic citations and shared the misconception that the role of motor officers is to raise revenues. Chief Murray reiterated the role of motor officers is to reduce traffic collisions and improve public safety. Council Member La Plante commended the Police response to an accident he witnessed and commented regarding traffic engineering and traffic issues near schools. Chief Murray concurred regarding school traffic concerns and commented regarding the effectiveness of motor officers in these settings.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding increasing the presence of officers during the summer. Chief Murray responded the Police Department would adjust accordingly, readdress, and reallocate resources based on need. She commented regarding the creation of a team and additional training provided to address the issue of street racing.
Mayor Pacheco inquired when the Youth Academy would be held. Chief Murray responded the Youth Academy was held in the first quarter of the year and would likely be held in the third quarter of the year, before the school holidays. Mayor Pacheco commented regarding hosting the Youth Academy during the summer. Chief Murray responded the Academy is more successful when held in conjunction with the school day and scheduled after school. She commented regarding possible transportation issues for students during the summer.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding requests for the Special Needs Awareness program stickers.
Chief Murray confirmed many residents have submitted requests for the stickers and many other cities have inquired regarding the program. She noted that the idea for the program was borrowed from the city of Seal Beach. She commented regarding the success of the program due to promotion on social media platforms. Mayor Pacheco commented in support of the Special Needs Awareness program.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding implementation date of the Facility Dog program. Chief Murray responded staff is in communication with the nonprofit organization that provides the facility dog and she hopes to have the program in place soon.
Mayor Pro Tem Alvarez inquired regarding consideration of the use of Police bicycles. Chief Murray responded that the Police Department does have bicycles and deploys them on occasions when the specific problem is best addressed on bicycle. She commented regarding prior usage in the Downtown area, successful deployment, need in certain areas, and trained officers.
Chief Hurlock provided the presentation for the Fire Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021- 22: developed specifications and purchased two new ambulances, purchased a new command vehicle (604), and purchased a new ladder truck (611); implemented and trained City Staff on Integrated Public Alert Warning System (IPAWS); implemented and trained City Staff on Mass Care and Shelter Plan; completed construction and moved into the new Fire Stations 2 and 4; conducted promotional exams, interviews and promoted one Battalion Chief, two Captains, and three Engineers; started a training tower with five recruit firefighters; updated and restocked the Emergency Preparedness bins; updated department policies and procedures; implemented web-based technology for department calendar, department policy manuals and Area E strike team roster; and, developed and began implementation of a public outreach plan that provides public education with a monthly theme.
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Chief Hurlock provided the presentation for the Fire Department’s Goals for FY 2022-23: initiate the Fire Service Accreditation program; identify and develop recruitment and retention strategy for ambulance operator program; conduct an exercise for the City’s emergency shelter plan; and, update and restock the Emergency Preparedness bins (year four of four-year plan).
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the repair date of Fire Station 4. Chief Hurlock commented regarding the bid process and fire investigation and shared the construction would take two to three months to complete.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding an increase in fires occurring in the City. Chief Hurlock responded there was an increase in fires at certain properties and locations, some of which may be attributed to the homeless populations.
Director Consunji provided the presentation for the Public Works Department’s Accomplishments for FY 2021-22: Completion of 23 projects with a total cost of $37 million including the Residential Streets Pavement Rehabilitation, Old River School Rd. Pavement Rehabilitation, 3rd St. Water and Street Improvements, Concrete Repairs and ADA Improvements (Council District 3), Florence Ave. Water and Street Improvements, Telegraph Rd. Reconstruction, south Downey Safe Routes to School, 5th St. Water System Improvements, Third St, Smallwood Ave., and Woodruff Ave. Sewer Rehabilitation, rehabilitation of Groundwater Well No. 30 and Well No. 14, Lakewood Blvd. Sidewalk Repairs, and, adoption of the Active Transportation Plan; completed design and started construction of the Residential Streets Pavement Rehabilitation, Solar Panels and Battery Energy Storage Systems at City Facilities, 5th St.
Pavement Rehabilitation, Firestone Blvd. at Lakewood Blvd. Intersection Improvements, Pellet St. and Ryerson Ave. Water System Improvements, and, Imperial Hwy. Fiberoptic Communications and Traffic Signal upgrades; and, other improvements such as completing the final design of Well Nos. 2 and 4 PFAS treatment facilities, and, obtaining $12.3 million in Measure W grant funding for Furman Park Storm Water Improvements.
Director Consunji provided the presentation for the Public Works Department’s Goals for FY 2022- 23: Complete design and construction of 16 projects with a total budget of $36 million including the Residential Streets Pavement Rehabilitation, Paramount Blvd. at Imperial Hwy. Intersection Improvements, the Lakewood Blvd. at Florence Ave. Intersection Improvements, the Lakewood Blvd. at Imperial Hwy. Intersection Improvements, implementation of the Bike Master Plan – Phase 1, the Alley Pavement Rehabilitation, Space Shuttle Exhibit building project, implementation of the Citywide Fiberoptic system, Systemic Safety Analysis Report program, Citywide Transit Priority System, Water Improvements on Cole St, 6th St., 4th St., and 3rd St., and, the Firestone Blvd. Stormwater Dry Well Improvements; and other goals including repaving the City Yard parking lot, planting 300 trees Citywide, flushing and cleaning 65 miles of sewer mains, implementing the SCADA System for water, sewer, and storm water systems, sewer rehabilitation in the northwest quadrant of the City, and Ground Well No. 2 and No. 4 Treatment systems.
Council Member Frometa inquired regarding the number of residential streets that were part of the Pavement Rehabilitation Program. Director Consunji responded that the City was divided into 10 grids and while the Public Works Department was expecting to rehabilitate six or seven grids, staff will be able to rehabilitate seven or eight grids due to very competitive bids received He reported rehabilitation of 300 street segments consisting of 36 miles to date, current construction of 213 street segments consisting of 22 miles, totaling 58-60 miles repaved by the end of the year.
Council Member La Plante inquired regarding the Citywide Fiberoptic System. Director Consunji responded the City entered into a Development Agreement with SiFi Networks to install 415 miles of fiberoptic lines in the City to create the infrastructure to provide reliable, inexpensive high-speed internet for residents and businesses. He added the project will be at no cost to the City.
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Council Member Trujillo inquired regarding the budget allocated for alley restoration. Director Consunji responded $300,000 is budgeted for alley rehabilitation annually for pavement reconstruction, installation of lighting, and improvement of the public right of way.
Mayor Pacheco inquired whether rehabilitation of Fifth St. between Lakewood Blvd. and Brookshire Ave. would affect access to the Downey High School parking lot adjacent to Fifth St. Director Consunji responded construction is currently underway and staff would like to complete construction during the summer. He advised the concrete improvements are completed first so there will not be any lane closures, lanes are closed one at a time, local access is provided, and streets are not closed. He confirmed access will be available. Mayor Pacheco inquired whether residents are notified of street rehabilitation projects. Director Consunji responded notices are sent out by mail to properties within 300 feet of project limits, notices are posted on social media platforms every few days, and staff will knock on doors and talk to residents if there may be access issues. Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding notification of small businesses when street rehabilitation occurs on major thoroughfares such as Lakewood Blvd. and Imperial Hwy. Director Consunji responded the process is similar, with notices by mail and social media platforms. He added that staff may also work with businesses to develop agreements for temporary construction easements. He stated staff ensures impacted parties are aware and provides local access to the extent possible. He noted residents may not have access when construction is occurring in front of the driveway or replacing the driveway approach. Mayor Pacheco inquired how common it is for cities to have their own water wells. Director Consunji responded most cities do have their own wells and highlighted that Downey’s 20 groundwater wells are able to supply 100% of water to residents, meaning that the City does not need to purchase water from a water district, this generates savings for residents, and ensures reliable service.
City Manager Livas thanked Mayor Pacheco and Council Member Frometa for serving on the Budget Subcommittee and ensuring the City’s funds are being used prudently.
Council Member Trujillo inquired regarding the next steps in the budget process pertaining to a request from the Arts and Culture Subcommittee and funding for alleys. City Manager Livas responded the next step would be adoption of the budget and advised adjustments to be budget could be performed throughout the year. He stated the current budget is based on goals set by the City Council and the City Council may request changes to the budget after adoption. Council Member Trujillo shared a request from the Arts and Culture Subcommittee to budget $500,000 for arts, culture, and history. City Manager Livas responded budget line items are typically created for specific programs or projects. He stated that if Council Member Trujillo wished for this item to be included in the proposed budget, the Council would need to discuss where the funding would come from. He shared that between the budget adoption and September, Director Gandhy finalizes the budget and identifies areas where funding may be available.
He cautioned against setting a budget line item without specific details regarding allocation of the funds.
Council Member Trujillo clarified the request is for the establishment of an arts, culture, and history grant program to which community groups such as the Downey Arts Coalition or the Downey Historical Society may apply. He shared meeting with Assistant to the City Manager De Rojas to discuss development of the grant process. City Manager Livas stated he could meet with Director Gandhy to discuss funding for the grant program and add the line item as part of the budget adoption process. Council Member Trujillo shared Assistant City Manager Oskoui distributed a request for proposals and determined the $500,00 amount based on submitted proposals. He clarified that participating community groups were advised the City was not committing any funding, no process is currently in place, and the program would require Council consideration and approval. He commented regarding the need to discuss funding of the Stay Gallery.
Council Member Frometa commented in support of a line item for an arts, culture, and history grant program and questioned the $500,000 amount. She suggested a presentation to the City Council regarding the proposed program and funding need.
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Mayor Pacheco clarified Council Member Trujillo’s request.
Council Member Trujillo confirmed his request for staff to return with a report to discuss an arts, culture, and history grant program. He added that the proposals totaled more than $500,00 and the Subcommittee scaled down the requests. City Manager Livas responded staff can research programs in other cities and shared the program parameters should be prioritized before determining the program amount. He emphasized the need to set parameters due to the large amount of groups seeking funding for arts programs. Council Member Trujillo reiterated his request to agendize discussion of an arts, culture, and history grant program and formalize support of arts, culture, and history in the City.
Council Member Trujillo requested to increase the alley allocation to $1 million and commented regarding the status of alleys in the City. City Manager Livas responded adjustments can be made and commented regarding determination of where the funding would be taken from.
Council Member La Plante requested information regarding current arts expenditure in the report regarding the arts, culture, and history grant program. He requested inclusion of figures for all arts expenditures including the Downey Theatre and Stay Arts and emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of arts spending.
Council Member Trujillo inquired regarding the Downey LINK Transit System and commented regarding low ridership. City Manager Livas responded the City is in the process of dismantling Downey Link and clarified that funding comes from Prop A funds for transportation and cannot be used for the arts. He summarized the Council’s desire to limit funds for the Downey LINK System and use those funds for alleys and streets.
Council Member Trujillo commented regarding the budget surplus and the need to fund infrastructure improvements.
Council Member Frometa commented regarding the need to analyze use of funding for alley repairs and the need for responsible spending. She cautioned against using reserve funds. She commented regarding current funds allocated for street rehabilitation and alley repairs. She inquired how many alleys are repaired using the $300,000 allocated and commented regarding other possible uses of additional funding. Director Consunji responded the $300,00 budgeted for the upcoming fiscal year would be used for rehabilitation of alleys north and south of Stewart and Gray Rd. between Lakewood Blvd. and Patton Rd. He estimated two alleys would be repaired at an average of $150,000 per alley. He stated two alleys would be repaired annually if the budget remains at $300,000 per year. Council Member Frometa clarified a budget of $600,000 would repair four alleys.
Mayor Pacheco inquired regarding the total number of alleys in the City. Director Consunji responded there are 26 alleys in Downey.
Council Member La Plante requested a report regarding the condition of the 26 alleys and the City’s responsibilities in maintaining the alleys. He shared he is not opposed to raising the annual allocation or making a one-time allocation from surplus funds but emphasized the need to understand alley conditions and current spending. City Manager Livas commented regarding balancing the needs of various Departments that also have requests for additional funding . He shared the decisions regarding which funding requests are approved are based on the priorities set by the City Council. He stated more funding has been spent on roads in the last five years than in the preceding 20 years. He stated the City has added $45 million in funding to address street rehabilitation. He concurred with Council Member La Plante’s request for a comprehensive analysis of all alleys, determination of the number alleys in the worst conditions, and the funding required to address those alleys. He shared his hesitation in taking funding from other Departments to fund additional alley repairs. He stated staff will return with an analysis regarding alley conditions.
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Council Member Trujillo expressed his desire to maintain spending on street rehabilitation and increase spending on alley repairs. He requested a report on the 10 worst alleys in the city and to conduct a walking tour of alleys. He reiterated the need to address alley conditions.
City Manager Livas summarized staff will return to Council with a report on alley conditions and request direction from Council.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pacheco adjourned the Special City Council meeting at 4:45 p.m.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC CLAUDIA M. FROMETA
City Clerk Mayor