MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 8, 2024
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on October 8, 2024, at 6:32 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Mario Trujillo presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Mario Trujillo
Hector Sosa
Claudia M. Frometa
Horacio Ortiz
Dorothy Pemberton
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tern
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Roger Bradley, City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant City Manager
John Funk, City Attorney
Scott Loughner, Interim Police Chief
Anthony Hildebrand, Assistant Fire Chief
Matthew Baumgardner, Public Works Director
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Irma Huitron, Community Development Director
Stephen Hannah, Finance Director
Monica Ortiz, Recreation Manager
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Pastor Shane Hicks from Legacy Church of Downey. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scout Troop #2.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Pemberton welcomed everyone and shared that October is known for Oktoberfest, which originated in Munich in 1810 as a wedding celebration for Prince Ludwig. She announced the installation of a Vietnam Memorial plaque beneath the City's sundial and thanked City Manager Bradley for updating the plaque with the names of 24 Downey residents who died in that conflict.
Council Member Pemberton reported attending Havana Nights and also participated in the Gangs Out of Downey Annual Golf Tournament. She reported attending Bellflower's State of the City Address, highlighting their citywide broadband network suggesting Downey explore something similar for Downtown. She shared two save -the -date announcements for the State of the Schools event on October 11 and the Downey Symphony's free opening concert on October 12 featuring violinist Mr. Shih performing Tchaikovsky. She informed residents about upcoming speed bump meetings for Guatemala Ave. near Suva St. She requested a follow-up on downtown Wi-Fi, acknowledging it may be cost - prohibitive but beneficial during City festivals.
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa asked Chief Loughner to extend his regards to the Downey PD motor detail, noting increased visibility and activity near Old River School Rd. and Stewart and Gray Rd. He requested that staff conduct a stop sign survey at the intersection of Pritchard St. and Barlin Ave. located behind Golden Park, for both east and westbound directions. He explained that due to the way cars are parked and the layout of the street, visibility is difficult when turning off of Barlin Ave. onto Pritchard St. He mentioned he personally tested the intersection and understood residents' concerns.
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Council Member Ortiz noted he had been away that week and expressed his appreciation to his colleagues for covering events in his absence. He submitted a staff request to explore the possibility of creating a Christmas light walkthrough display in the City.
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience and reported attending the NALEO Policy Institute on Emergency Preparedness and leading the Roybal Lifetime Achievement Award celebration in Washington, D.C. for Senator Catherine Cortez Masto of Nevada. She highlighted past events, including the International Food Festival and gave a special thank you to Parks and Recreation Director Jason Chacon and his staff, Public Works, and all those involved in organizing the 101h annual Havana Nights, which she said was the biggest and most successful yet, with an estimated 10,000 to 15,000 attendees. Council Member Frometa announced the upcoming retirement of the Fire Chief Dan Hurlock and shared the Council's intent to appoint another excellent Fire Chief. She shared her appreciation for the increased police presence on local streets and said the community has noticed and welcomed it. She requested a speed bump study on Pangborn Ave. between Firestone Blvd. and Florence Ave., citing frequent speeding concerns raised during neighborhood watch meetings and observed cut -through traffic causing danger to parked cars and families. She encouraged all residents to carefully review the election ballot and vote. She voiced support for Measure D, stating it would benefit the community, residents, and public safety services.
Mayor Trujillo reported attending the annual Gangs Out of Downey (GOOD) Golf Tournament and congratulated GOOD on hosting their biggest fundraiser for the Ricky Galvez Memorial Scholarships.
Mayor Trujillo stated that the Executive Director of SEAACA is expected to report at the November 12 City Council meeting. He reminded the audience that SEAACA is a Joint Powers Authority of 14 cities, and emphasized the importance of all cities, not just Downey, participating in the discussion and solutions. He requested a staff report on the usage of the Downey app and praised the app as a responsive and useful tool for reporting illegal dumping, graffiti, potholes, and more. Assistant City Manager De Rojas added that an RFP for a new, more user-friendly version of the app was being prepared and would be released in the coming weeks, along with a new outreach campaign. Mayor Trujillo congratulated the Parks and Recreation Department for the successful annual Havana Night's Festival. He highlighted Downey's Cuban community as the largest west of the Mississippi and commended the City for celebrating its diversity. Mayor Trujillo shared updates on new businesses, including the upcoming opening of Sprouts in the former Bed Bath & Beyond location at the Downey Landing and the recent opening of Silver Lake Ramen near Diossa on Firestone Blvd. He noted that while Mexican food is his favorite, the City is working to bring variety and diversity in restaurant offerings, including the desire for another Italian restaurant. Mayor Trujillo proposed that the City consider adopting a block party ordinance to support safe neighborhood gatherings. He described block parties as a classic American tradition and said residents should be encouraged to organize them.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley confirmed that a second was needed for the speed bump study on Pangborn Ave., which was provided by Council Member Ortiz. He also addressed the request for a report on the Downey app, stating staff would be happy to provide it and noted that an RFP is already out to replace and enhance the current system. A second was received by Council Member Pemberton. 19;T*34111r-11111O 611
1. Mayor's Excellence Award to Esther Anaya, Musical Innovator.
2. Mayor's Excellence Award to Niko Cortez, Junior Golfing Talent.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
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Regular Meeting — October 08, 2024
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON -AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Trujillo asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar, and Non -Agenda items. City Clerk Duarte confirmed one written public comment was received.
No name, commented in support of a cease fire resolution.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5- 0, to receive and file written public comment.
Mayor Trujillo asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items.
Alan Halstensgaard, resident, commented regarding America's Christian Credit Union.
Speaker No. 2, resident, inquired when Otto St. will be reconstructed.
Lee Squire, resident, commented regarding the installation of the name plaque at the Vietnam Veterans' War Memorial.
George Villanueva, Downey Fire Management Association, commented in support of Measure D.
John Briscoe, non-resident, commented in regards to his Congressional campaign efforts for District 42.
District.
Ernesto Valle, resident, commented against Measure D.
Anna, non-resident, commented in regards to a wage increase for SEAACA employees.
Emory Sipos, resident, commented in regards to issues with parking in the Downtown Downey Mike Parino, Downey Police Management Association, commented in support of Measure D.
Michelle Peterson, non-resident, commented in regards to a wage increase for SEAACA employees.
Speaker No. 11, resident, requested the enforcement of overnight parking on Baysinger St.
Speaker No. 12, resident, requested the enforcement of overnight parking on Baysinger St.
Art Gonzales, resident, commented in regards to a safety concerns at Doty Middle School.
John Lacey, resident, commented in regards to the Federal Government's D.E.I. (diversity, equity, and inclusion) policy.
Speaker No. 15, no speaker.
Speaker No. 16, non-resident, commented in regards to a wage increase for SEAACA employees..
Lisa Luna, non-resident, commented in regards to a wage increase for SEAACA employees.
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Carrie Rios, resident, requested to use the Rancho Los Amigos or Rio San Gabriel parks for the Downey NFL Flag league.
Michelle Farina, resident, commented in support of a cease fire resolution.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and so ordered by the Mayor to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Trujillo abstained from Item No. 4 due to owning property in the Downtown Downey area.
Mayor Trujillo pulled Item No. 6 for separate discussion.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
1. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 381874-382290; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004500, 30004504, 30004506 and 30004508; EFT Nos. 13926-13964; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2584-2587, in the total amount of $6,179,354.91: Finance.
2. ACCEPTED OF WORK FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (COUNCIL DISTRICT 1), AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)
AND MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS (CITYWIDE), LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD PARKWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND FIRE STATION NO. 1 PARKING LOT CONCRETE REPLACEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 24-01: Public Works.
1) ACCEPTED THE WORK FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (COUNCIL DISTRICT 1), AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) AND MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS (CITYWIDE), LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD PARKWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND FIRE STATION NO. 1 PARKING LOT CONCRETE REPLACEMENT PROJECT, CIP NO. 24-01;
2) APPROVED GENTRY GENERAL ENGINEERING INCORPORATED'S FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $780,427; AND,
3) AUTHORIZED THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE
OF COMPLETION FOR THE PROJECT WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-
RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK, INDICATING THE WORK IS COMPLETE AND HAS BEEN
ACCEPTED BY THE CITY
3. APPROVED OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RAK DEVELOPMENT,
INCORPORATED DBA KREUZER CONSULTING GROUP FOR THE ALLEY BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT, STATE PROJECT NO. CCL-5334-072, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 24-03: Public Works.
1) APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH RAK DEVELOPMENT,
INCORPORATED DBA KREUZER CONSULTING GROUP FOR THE DESIGN OF THE ALLEY BEAUTIFICATION PROJECT, STATE PROJECT NO. CCL-5334-072, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) NO. 24-03, FOR AN EIGHT -MONTH TERM BEGINNING ON OCTOBER 8, 2024 FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $205,880; City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — October 08, 2024 4
2) AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; AND,
3) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE ANY NON -
SUBSTANTIVE EXTENSIONS AND CHANGE ORDERS TO THE AGREEMENT
4. APPROVED OF PROCUREMENT OF MERIDIAN BARRIERS FOR USE IN DOWNTOWN STREET CLOSURES: Public Works.
APPROVED THE PURCHASE OF MOVABLE MERIDIAN BARRIERS FOR ENHANCED SAFETY AND FLEXIBILITY IN TRAFFIC CONTROL 1N THE AMOUNT OF $224,917 FROM MERIDIAN RAPID DEFENSE GROUP, LLC.
5. ACCEPTED OF THE SELECTIVE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM FUNDS (STEP GRANT):
Police.
1) ACCEPTED A GRANT AWARD FROM THE OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY IN THE AMOUNT OF $330,000 TO CONDUCT VARIOUS SELECTIVE TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT OPERATIONS THROUGHOUT THE CITY OF DOWNEY; AND,
2) INCREASED THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET BY $330,000 TO ACCOUNT FOR
THESE REVENUES AND ACCOMPANYING EXPENDITURES
7. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO THE APPROVAL OF CLASS SPECIFICATION REVISIONS AND NEW STAFF ALLOCATIONS IN THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET:
Human Resources.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8272, ALLOCATING FULLTIME POSITIONS WITHIN THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET AND ADOPTING REVISIONS TO THE CLASSIFICATION
SPECIFICATION FOR THE POSITION OF REVENUE SUPERVISOR
8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF PROPOSITION 36: Administration.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8273, IN SUPPORT OF PROPOSITION 36, THE
HOMELESSNESS, DRUG ADDICTION, AND THEFT REDUCTION ACT
9. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION PERTAINING TO THE APPROVAL OF THE UPDATED COMPREHENSIVE PAY SCHEDULE: Human Resources.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8274, ADOPTING AN UPDATED COMPREHENSIVE PAY SCHEDULE IN COMPLIANCE WITH CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 2, SECTION 570.5
10. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY AMENDING CHAPTER 1 ("DISORDERLY CONDUCT, ETC.") OF ARTICLE IV ("PUBLIC WELFARE, MORALS, AND POLICY") AND CHAPTER 1 ("PUBLIC PARKS") OF ARTICLE X ("PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND RECREATION") OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATED TO LOITERING, CAMPING, AND OBSTRUCTIONS OF PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF- WAY: City Attorney/City Prosecutor.
ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 24-1513, AMENDING CHAPTER 1 ("DISORDERLY CONDUCT, ETC.") OF ARTICLE IV ("PUBLIC WELFARE, MORALS, AND POLICY") AND CHAPTER 1 ("PUBLIC PARKS") OF ARTICLE X ("PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS, AND RECREATION") OF
THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE TO REGULATE LOITERING, CAMPING, AND OBSTRUCTIONS OF PUBLIC RIGHTS -OF -WAY.
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Item No. 6, was pulled by Mayor Trujillo for separate discussion.
OTHER BUSINESS
6. APPROVED OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH JONCOWEST FOR CITYWIDE BUS STOP CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH JONCOWEST IN THE AMOUNT OF $90,300 ANNUALLY FOR TWO YEARS COMMENCING NOVEMBER 1, 2024, WITH AN OPTION TO RENEW FOR THREE ADDITIONAL ONE-YEAR PERIODS FOR CITYWIDE BUS STOP CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES; 2) AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT; AND,
3) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE AGREEMENT.
Mayor Trujillo requested a report on the bus stop cleaning contract, specifically asking for findings related to lawsuits involving the company and any licensing issues. He also inquired whether staff still recommends awarding the contract to Joncowest. City Manager Bradley stated that Public Works Director Matthew Baumgardner would provide a report.
Director Baumgardner explained that as part of the RFP process, all bidders were required to submit their litigation history from the past five years, specifically any cases that resulted in a judgment.
Upon reviewing the top five firms, he reported that none had any judgments against them. While each had experienced a claim filed in court at some point, none resulted in any action or judgment.
Mayor Trujillo asked about licensing, stating he was initially under the impression that a license was required. Director Baumgardner clarified that for pressure washing and general cleaning maintenance a contractor's license is not required.
Council Member Frometa asked whether the RFP included a question about required licenses for vendors during the application process. Director Baumgardner responded that the RFP did not specify any licensing requirement for this type of work, so no license was required.
Council Member Frometa shared that she had reviewed the prior meeting and acknowledged that litigation is often a normal part of doing business. She raised concerns about staff's recommendation to award the bus cleaning contract to a company the City has only worked with for six months. She questioned why the City would choose a vendor with limited municipal experience over Nationwide Environmental Services, with whom the City has had a long-standing relationship and who has received approvals from surrounding cities. City Manager Bradley explained that the City is required to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) once a contract reaches its 10-year term limit. He stated that an internal staff team reviewed and ranked the proposals based on how well each met the outlined scope of work.
Five proposals advanced through the process, and Joncowest was ultimately rated the highest. He noted that the selection aimed to ensure both quality service and cost -efficiency, highlighting that Joncowest `s bid was $50,000 less than the incumbents. Based on this evaluation, staff recommended awarding the contract to Joncowest.
Council Member Ortiz asked whether all contracts exceeding 10 years automatically go through an RFP process, or if staff can recommend continuing with long-standing contractors. City Manager Bradley clarified that by law, the City is required to issue an RFP to ensure a fair and unbiased bidding process for all potential contractors. Council Member Ortiz asked whether, over the 10 year contract term, City Council Minutes
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the City would be able to pull the contract if issues arose with Joncowest. City Manager Bradley responded that the City will closely monitor the services provided to ensure they meet contractual expectations. He stated that a lower cost will not lead to reduced oversight or lowered standards, and if the company can perform the work profitably at that rate, it benefits taxpayers but the City will still hold them accountable to the full terms of the contract.
Council Member Frometa expressed concern that Joncowest is proposing to perform the same services for $90,000, $7,000 less than what the City paid Nationwide Environmental in 2014, despite a decade of rising costs and evolving community needs. She questioned whether the vendor might be overextending themselves by underbidding and voiced skepticism that they could deliver the same level of service for less money after 10 years. City Manager Bradley acknowledged that the vendor's internal cost structure is their responsibility but stressed the importance of ensuring they meet contractual obligations.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether there is a six-month window to evaluate if the new vendor is meeting service expectations. She noted that companies with long-standing contracts can either improve or decline over time, while new companies might initially go above and beyond to prove themselves.
Council Member Frometa noted that the contract is for two years starting November 1, with the option to renew for three additional one-year terms. She asked if the City could evaluate the vendor's performance after one year. City Manager Bradley responded that staff would be happy to provide a report at the one-year mark. He also stated that the contract includes a 30-day termination clause, allowing the City to exit the agreement if the services are unsatisfactory.
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa stated that he had previously asked Director Baumgardner about the low- cost bid at the last council meeting and found the response he received to be sufficient.
Mayor Trujillo asked which other cities Joncowest provides bus stop cleaning services for and whether staff had checked their references. Director Baumgardner responded that staff did check references, and the primary cities where Joncowest has performed municipal cleaning services are Santa Barbara and Pasadena. He confirmed that both cities reported being satisfied with the company's work.
Council Member Ortiz asked how the proposals were ranked, noting the significant price difference between Joncowest at $90,000, Webco at $230,000, and Parkwood Landscape Maintenance at $187,000. Director Baumgardner explained that the rankings were based on seven different evaluation categories, not just price. They added that some vendors were more responsive and provided detailed information about their methodology and approach, which helped in assessing the overall value and quality of their proposals.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Sosa and carried 5- 0, to accept the recommendation and approve of the professional service agreement with Joncowest for citywide bus stop cleaning and maintenance services with a one-year review.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
11. DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY HOSTED HISTORICAL TOURS USING A DOUBLE DECKER BUS: Parks and Recreation.
PROVIDED STAFF DIRECTION REGARDING HOSTING CITY HISTORICAL TOURS.
Parks and Recreation Director Jason Chacon provided the staff report for Item No. 11. He reported that, following the Council's request at the August 13 Council meeting, staff collaborated with the Downey Conservancy to develop a double-decker bus tour program. The plan includes two daytime historical tours of Downey landmarks and a third evening tour featuring homes participating in the holiday City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting —October 08, 2024 7
decorating contest. He explained that the tours were separated because landmarks are best viewed during daylight. The bus can accommodate 86 passengers (54 upstairs, 32 downstairs) and would be rented for eight hours at a cost of $6,000. Additional costs for staff time, marketing, and materials bring the total estimated event cost to $7,500. Staff has reached out to local businesses for sponsorships but has not received responses yet.
Council Member Frometa asked how riders would be selected and prioritized for the tour. Director Chacon explained that the tours would be free and reservations would be made through the Parks and Recreation website. During sign-up, participants would indicate their preference for sitting upstairs (outdoor) or downstairs (indoor). Seating would then be assigned on a first -come, first -served basis.
Council Member Frometa asked if residents would be able to attend the tour one time. Director Chacon confirmed that though there are two tours, residents would only be able to attend one tour.
Council Member Ortiz asked if the City had a competition for Christmas lights. Director Chacon confirmed that the City was hosting a Holiday Home Decorating contest and the evening bus tour would follow the route showcasing those decorated homes. Council Member Ortiz asked whether the people riding the bus would be able to participate in voting for the Christmas lights. Director Chacon responded that the voting is conducted separately by the Parks and Recreation Commissioners and the Youth Commission on a different night.
Mayor Trujillo expressed support for the tour, highlighting the value of showcasing Downey's history. He suggested that if demand is high, the City might consider shortening the tours to allow for more trips, possibly three historical tours and two holiday light tours, to maximize participation. Mayor Trujillo shared that the Historical Society submitted a $5,000 sponsorship request to Coca-Cola, and he personally contacted their government affairs representative to express support for the event. He encouraged continued efforts to secure sponsorships to offset costs and expressed interest in making the tour an annual City tradition. He referenced Paramount's well-known holiday train as an example and suggested Downey could similarly establish a yearly historical and holiday decorating tour for residents.
Director Chacon responded that this expenditure could be added to the annual budgeting process.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 5-0, to host City historical tours using double decker buses.
12. DISCUSSION REGARDING BEAUTIFICATION OF INTERSECTION MEDIANS AT FLORENCE
AVENUE AND LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD, FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD, AND FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND DOWNEY AVENUE: Public Works. 1) DISCUSSED THE OPTIONS FOR BEAUTIFYING THE RAISED MEDIANS LOCATED AT
THE INTERSECTIONS OF FLORENCE AVENUE AND LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD,
FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD, AND FIRESTONE BOULEVARD AND DOWNEY AVENUE; AND,
2) PROVIDED DIRECTION ON OPTIONS FOR BEAUTIFYING THESE RAISED MEDIANS.
Director Baumgardner provided the staff a report for Item No. 12. In response to a City Council request regarding beautification efforts at three key intersections: Florence Ave. and Lakewood Blvd., Firestone Blvd. and Lakewood Blvd., and Firestone Blvd. and Downey Ave. He explained that opportunities for aesthetic improvement exist primarily within the raised median "noses," the narrow sections adjacent to left -turn pockets. At Florence Ave. and Lakewood Blvd., some of these median noses are currently filled with asphalt or mulch, while others are broken due to frequent contact by commercial vehicles. Similar issues exist at the intersections of Firestone Blvd. and both Lakewood Blvd. and Downey Ave. In these locations, damage to vegetation and irrigation systems is often caused by exhaust from idling vehicles and vehicles hopping curbs. He described the challenges with maintaining vegetation in these narrow areas and suggested alternative treatment options such as replacing the current materials with light-colored concrete, similar to work previously done on Paramount Blvd. A second option would City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — October 08, 2024 8
be to use stamped concrete with decorative patterns, while a third approach involves using cobble -filled medians, though this is costlier and more labor-intensive. Estimated costs are approximately $40,000 per intersection for concrete -based treatments and up to $80,000 for cobble installations. Director Baumgardner mentioned the possibility of re -striping crosswalks with thermoplastic markings to improve visibility and pedestrian safety. He confirmed that adequate funding is available through three existing Capital Improvement Projects (CIP), all of which are already budgeted and scheduled for completion by June 2025.
Mayor Trujillo suggested that Council select the cobblestone at the intersections option.
Council Member Pemberton mentioned that the cobblestone would be a much better option.
Council Member Ortiz also agreed that cobblestone would be a better option and asked if there was a sufficient amount in the budget for the beautification effort. Director Baumgardner clarified that there were sufficientfunds allocated for the CIP projects. Council Member Ortiz asked if the cobblestones would help deter vehicles from hopping and damaging the raised median noses. Director Baumgardner clarified that it is common to pull back the nose so it is not at the crosswalk, making it less likely for vehicles to drive over them. He stated that this would be implemented with all three projects.
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa added that the restriping of the crosswalk was necessary.
Council Member Frometa questioned whether sufficient funding would be available to implement similar upgrades at additional intersections in South Downey. She also expressed concern that cobblestones might pose a tripping hazard for pedestrians, potentially leading to liability issues. Council Member Frometa suggested opting for stamped concrete and restriping instead. Director Baumgardner responded that staff could study how many intersections could be completed each year and take a phased approach if the Council prefers. He offered to return with that analysis and present it for further consideration. Council Member Frometa asked whether the potential savings from choosing the $40,000 stamped concrete option over the $80,000 cobblestone alternative could be redirected to other needs, such as restriping along highly trafficked avenues in the City that require maintenance and repair. Director Baumgardner agreed that shifting of resources could be placed elsewhere and focus on another part of improvements in the City.
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa asked whether there would be additional long-term costs associated with choosing the lower -cost concrete option. Director Baumgardner responded that while the stamped concrete on Paramount has held up well and still looks clean, maintenance will always be required.
Vehicles may leave marks on the concrete, therefore, so the City staff would need to remain vigilant in keeping those areas clean.
Council Member Pemberton stated that despite the price difference, the cobblestone option offers a significantly more attractive and lasting visual impact compared to stamped concrete. She argued that while stamped concrete looks stark and merely covers existing dirt, the cobblestones provide a meaningful beautification element without ongoing maintenance like watering. She emphasized that this project is different from a routine service contract and that it's about improving aesthetics at three major, highly visible intersections in Downey. Council Member Pemberton acknowledged the importance of watching the budget but felt that in this case, the higher cost is justified given the long-term benefit and enhanced appearance.
Council Member Ortiz asked if the Woodruff Beautification Project was going to have the cobblestones. Director Baumgardner explained that the current design includes flat concrete, but if Council desired a different treatment, that can be adjusted. He clarified that while the two -foot median noses do not contain vegetation, the surrounding raised medians in the Beautification project do include significant landscaping.
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|twas moved byCouncil Member Ortiz, seconded byCouncil Member Pemberton, and carried 5-
0. to proceed with the poounnnnendat|on of cobblestones for the raised median beautification project for the intersections of F|onsnma Ave. and Lakewood B|vd., Firestone Blvd. and Lakewood Blvd., and Firestone Blvd. and Downey Ave.
Mayor Trujillo adjourned the Regular City Council at8:23 p.m. in memory oƒDeputy Sheriff Lax Allen Love, 26, an eight -year veteran of the Wise County, Sheriff's Office, Texas, killed in a single -vehicle crash.
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Regular Meeting — October O8.2O24
HECTOR SOSA
Mayor
IN