CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA
CITY COUNCIL - REGULAR MEETING
VIA ZOOM TELECONFERENCE
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2, 2022 AT 7:00 PM
CALL TO ORDER:
The Regular Meeting of the South Pasadena City Council was called to order by Mayor Cacciotti on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, at 7:20 p.m. The City Council Chamber are located at 1424 Mission Street, South Pasadena, California.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT Mayor Michael Cacciotti
Mayor Pro Tem Jon Primuth
Councilmember Jack Donovan
Councilmember Diana Mahmud
Councilmember Evelyn G. Zneimer
ABSENT None
Christina Muñoz, Deputy City Clerk, announced a quorum.
Arminé Chaparyan, City Manager; Andrew Jared, City Attorney; Christina RESENT: presented reports tr responde po entans as indicated in the minutes s
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Flag Salute was led by Mayor Pro Tem Jon Primuth
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Closed Session Announcements
A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: Potential Exposure to Litigation (Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2))
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Number of Potential Cases: 2
City Attorney Jared reported that Council met in Closed Session to receive a briefing on the item. He noted direction was provided to the City Attorney's Office but no action was taken in closed session.
B. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: Initiation of Litigation Government Code sec. 54956.9(d)(4)
Number of Potential Cases: 1
City Attorney Jared reported that Council met in Closed Session to receive a briefing on the item. He noted direction was provided to the City Attorney's Office but no action was taken in closed session.
The City Council recessed closed session at 7:10 p.m.
City Attorney Jared referenced the two closed session agenda items from the February 23, 2022 City Council meeting and reported as follows:
A. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATIONS (Government Code Section 54956.8)
Property Address: 815 Mission Street, South Pasadena (portion thereof) APN: 5315-020-900
Agency Negotiator: Arminé Chaparyan, City Manager
Under Negotiations: Price and Terms
City Attorney Jared reported Council met in Closed Session after the conclusion of open session at February 23, 2022 City Council meeting. He noted direction was provided to the City Attorney's Office but no action was taken in closed session.
C. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL: POTENTIAL LITIGATION
(Government Code sec. 54956.9(d)(2))
Number of Cases: One
City Attorney Jared reported Council met in Closed Session after the conclusion of open session at February 23, 2022 City Council meeting. He noted direction was provided to the City Attorney's Office but no action was taken in closed session.
PUBLIC COMMENT
2. Public Comment - General
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Mayor Cacciotti announced public comments are intended to address matters not on the agenda for the meeting. Members of the public have the option of emailing or participating via Zoom (audio) to address the City Council, as listed on the agenda.
No general public comment.
PRESENTATIONS
3. PROCLAMATION DECLARING MARCH 7, 2022 AS "ARBOR DAY" IN THE CITY
OF SOUTH PASADENA
Mayor Cacciotti presented a proclamation declaring March 7, 2022 as "Arbor Day" in the City of South Pasadena.
Mayor Cacciotti noted that the City Council will hear Item No. 16 next at 7:30 p.m. pursuant to Elections Code 21607.1(D)
PUBLIC HEARING
16. PUBLIC HEARING TO RECEIVE PUBLIC INPUT REGARDING COMMUNITIES
OF INTEREST RELATED TO REDISTRICTING FOR SOUTH PASADENA CITY
COUNCIL DISTRICTS
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council:
Receive a report from staff and the demographer on the redistricting rocess and permissible criteria to be considered to redraw district boundaries;
Conduct a public hearing to receive public input on district boundaries; and Provide direction on proposed district map and next steps.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Ken Chawkins, National Demographics Corporation & Victor Manalo, Tripepi Smith, made a presentation and provided an overview of the proposed maps.
Councilmember Mahmud inquired about the water areas on the proposed maps.
Mr. Chawkins stated it is a key that comes with the map system and noted that if there was an area of water on the map, it would call it out.
Councilmember Mahmud asked what formula is used to determine the ideal deviation for a map.
Mr. Chawkins noted its based-on population criteria.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Councilmember Mahmud asked how the teal and the green maps were developed.
Mr. Chawkins stated those maps were based on the feedback received in previous public comment and feedback received.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public hearing.
Zoom Public Comment:
Josh Albrektson discussed the City's housing growth and the diverse issues of neighborhoods.
Anne Bagasao expressed her support for map 105.
Mary Urquhart expressed her support for the teal or green options.
Yvonne LaRose discussed the different ethic populations within the proposed districts.
With no other requests to speak, the public hearing was closed.
At the request of Councilmember Zneimer, Mr. Chawkins provided a detailed overview of the green map.
At the Mayor Cacciotti's request, Mr. Chawkins discussed the differences between map 105 and the green map.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth stated he has to examine the proposed maps in more detail; noted an additional map was submitted that isn't included in the proposed maps.
Councilmember Donovan reiterated Mayor Pro Tem Primuth's thoughts.
Councilmember Mahmud recommended to eliminate maps 103 and 104 due to the high population deviation; noted that map 102 should be eliminated due to the odd shape of district 2.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth requested to keep map 103 and adjust it to meet the population deviation.
Councilmember Zneimer expressed concern with map 103 as it takes renters away from her district.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth suggested tweaking map 103 to move renters from another district to compensate for the loss of renters in Councilmember Zneimer's district.
Councilmember Mahmud withdrew her request to withdraw map 103 to allow for a modification of the map.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 City Attorney Jared noted that Councilmember incumbency cannot be a deciding factor when drawing the districts.
Mr. Chawkins noted that no maps were drawn with consideration of Councilmember residency as a primary factor.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth asked if shifting population from one district to another, who have recently voted in the last general election, is a factor when drawing a map.
Mr. Chawkins stated that it is a factor and it's called voter deferral.
Councilmember Znieimer how voter deferral can be determined.
Mr. Chawkins stated that you look at voting population from the last election to see who recently voted.
Councilmember Zneimer supported the idea of making changes to map 103.
Councilmember Mahmud recommended changes to map 105 with adjustments to the Los Altos area.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth noted that map 106 appears to have a lot of voter deferral.
Councilmembers reached consensus to eliminate maps 102, 104, 106, and 108.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth suggested creating maps where commercial districts are shared.
Councilmember Mahmud suggested eliminating map 107 due to huge shift from the original district map.
Councilmembers reached consensus to eliminate map 107.
Councilmembers reached consensus to keep maps 101, 103 (with adjustments suggested), 105 (with adjustments suggested), teal, and green.
Management Services Director Demerjian noted that new maps are due to the City by March 7, 2022.
COMMUNICATIONS
4. Councilmembers Communications
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth deferred his comments to the next City Council meeting.
Councilmember Mahmud discussed a recent meeting of the Sanitation District; discussed Contract Cities' proposed priority goals which includes addressing the theft
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 of catalytic converters; discussed a California Business Roundtable ballot initiative petition that is currently circulating for signatures that would make it more difficult for local governments to pass tax measures.
Councilmember Donovan discussed the recent Athens Ad-Hoc survey that was released; stated the final report from the Finance Ad-Hoc committee will come to the City Council at a future meeting; noted that City Treasurer Pia will not seek reelection.
Councilmember Zneimer expressed concern with the amount of smoking at the Arroyo Seco Golf course parking lot; shared a photo of the closure of the golf course; discussed a recent meeting with the Public Works Department that included discussion about the Water Master Plan; discussed a recent meeting of the Woman's Club of South Pasadena where the Rialto theater was discussed.
Motion by Councilmember Znieimer to direct staff to look into the alterations of the Rialto theater. Motion dies for a lack of a second.
City Manager Chaparyan noted that staff is currently working with the theater and will provide an update to the City Council at a future date.
Mayor Cacciotti shared a highlight video of the City Manager's Office.
5. City Manager Communications
City Manager Chaparyan wished the City of South Pasadena a Happy 134t Birthday.
6. Reordering of, Additions, or Deletions to the Agenda Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Primuth, seconded by Mayor Cacciotti to move Item No. 18 as the next item on the agenda.
There was a substitute motion by Councilmember Donovan move Item No. 18 to after the consent calendar, with any items pulled from the consent calendar to move to the end of the agenda.
Councilmember Mahmud seconded the motion with the amendment move Item No. 17 to a future City Council meeting.
Councilmember Zneimer expressed concern with moving Item No. 17 to a future meeting.
City Manager Chaparyan recommended to vote on the consent calendar next, check to see which items get pulled, and determine later in the meeting if any items need to be tabled to a future meeting.
Councilmember Mahmud requested to pull Item No. 15; and, she suggested to hear Item No. 15 before No. 17 due to being time sensitive.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Public Works Director Gerber stated that the final list for the Measure M Multi-Year Subregional Program (MSP) Funding Plan isn't due until June 2022; noted that it would be beneficial for the City Council to discuss the list sooner in case there are modifications needed.
Motion by Councilmember, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud to move Item No. 18 to after the consent calendar, with any items pulled from consent to move until the end of the agenda and to hear Item No. 15 before No. 17.
Motion carries 5-0.
CONSENT CALENDAR
APPROVAL OF PREPAID WARRANTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $111,515.51; GENERAL CITY WARRANTS IN THE AMOUNT OF $598,342.66;
SUPPLEMENTAL AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE PAYMENTS IN THE
AMOUNT OF $3,437.19; TRANSFERS IN THE AMOUNT OF $21,533,943.05; PAYROLL IN THE AMOUNT OF $561,263.28
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve the Warrants as presented.
MONTHLY INVESTMENT REPORT FOR DECEMBER 2021
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file the Monthly Investment Report for December 2021.
9. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REMOTE TELECONFERENCE
MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BODIES OF THE CITY
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING REMOTE
TELECONFERENCE MEETINGS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BODIES
OF THE CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA FOR THE PERIOD OF
MARCH 3, 2022 THROUGH APRIL 2, 2022, PURSUANT TO
BROWN ACT PROVISIONS
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve the attached resolution authorizing remote teleconference meetings of the legislative bodies of the City.
10. ANTOREST CODEA RESOLUTION UPDATING THE CITYS CONFLICT OF
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022
RESOLUTION
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SOUTH
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE CITY'S CONFLICT
OF INTEREST CODE AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 7679
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council adopt a resolution amending the City's Conflict of Interest Code to incorporate updated positions that are required to file air Political Practices Commission (FPPC) Form 700 Statement of Economi Interest.
11. AUTHORIZE THE ACCEPTANCE OF A GRANT AWARD FROM THE
CALIFORNIA STATE LIBRARY IN THE AMOUNT OF $12,201, EXECUTE AN
AWARD AGREEMENT AND CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE, INCREASE THE MISCELLANEOUS REVENUE ACCOUNT BY $12,201, AND
APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR PERSONNEL AND EQUIPMENT
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Authorize the acceptance of a Grant Award from the California State Library in the amount of $12,201 for the California State Library Memory Lab Program;
2. Execute an Award Agreement and Certification of Compliance for the City to participate in the California State Library Memory Lab Program; Deposit $12,201 to General Fund Miscellaneous Revenue (101-0000- 0000-5071); and
4. Appropriate $12,201 from General Fund Reserves to Library Part-time Salaries (101-8010-8011-7010) in the amount of $2,000 for a limited term library intern and Special Department Expenses (101-8010-8011-8020) in the amount of $10,201 for equipment.
12. AUTHORIZE A CONTRACT AMENDMENT WITH ADHAMI ENGINEERING
GROUP FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO PREPARE THE ENGINEERING
DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS OF
RECTANGULAR RAPID FLASHING BEACONS (RRFBS) IN AN AMOUNT NOT- TO-EXCEED $5,000, FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $60,000
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a contract amendment with Adhami Engineering Group (the Consultant) to prepare the engineering design construction documents and specifications of the rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs) in an amount not-to-exceed $5,000, for a total not-to- exceed contract amount of $60,000.00; and
2. Appropriate an additional $5,000 in Proposition C Funds to Account No.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 207-9000-9351-9351-000, for a total appropriation of $60,000 in Proposition C Funds to Account No. 207-9000-9351-9351-000.
13. AUTHORIZE A CONTRACT AMENDMENT WITH W. G. ZIMMERMAN ENGINEERING, INC. FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTING SERVICES TO
CONDUCT THE TRANSPORTATION IMPACT, NOISE, AND AIR QUALITY ANALYSIS FOR THE MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT AT 815
FREMONT AVENUE IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $2,500, FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $27,091.25
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a ontract amendment with W. G. Zimmerman Engineering, Inc. for professiona consulting services to conduct the transportation impact, noise, and air quality analysis for the mixed-use development project at 815 Fremont Avenue in an amount not-to-exceed $2,500, for a total not-to-exceed contract amount of $27,091.25.
14. AUTHORIZE A CONTRACT AMENDMENT WITH HR DYNAMICS &
PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT INC., FOR ADDITIONAL ANALYSIS ON THE
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS STUDY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT-TO-EXCEED $15,000 FOR A TOTAL NOT-TO-EXCEED CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $40,000 Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the contract amendment with HR Dynamics & Performance Management Inc., in an additional not-to-exceed amount of $15,000, for additional analysis on the Compensation & Benefits Study.
15. ITEM WAS MOVED OUT-OF-ORDER FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth recused himself from Item No. 13 due to a conflict of interest.
Deputy City Clerk Muñoz noted that Item No. 15 will be pulled for public comment and noted that Item No. 7 includes an additional document.
A motion was made by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve Consent Calendar Items) 7-14 as presented and amended.
Motion carried, 5-0, with Mayor Pro Tem Primuth recusing himself from Item No. 13.
ACTION/DISCUSSION
18. DISCUSS THE SOUTH PASADENA HIGH SCHOOL ANTI-BIAS CLUB'S
PROPOSED BLACK LIVES MATTER MURAL AT ORANGE GROVE PARK
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council discuss the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club's (ABC) proposed Black Lives Matter (BLM) mural at Orange
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Deputy Community Development Director Lin made a presentation and provided an overview of the item.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
Zoom Public Comment
The following individuals expressed their support for the South Pasadena High School Anti-Bias Club's proposed Black Lives Matter Mural at Orange Grove Park:
Robin Becker
hung Huyn
osh Albrektso
John Srebalus
Lauren Black
Noah Kuhn
Alexa Morales
Remy Julian-Lorenz
Caitlin Lainoff
F.J. Pratt
Eric Talesnick
Anika Ebbert
Lulu Talesnick Lopez
Rick Elbaum
Victoria Patterson
Scot Kuhn
Laura Morales
Steven Wong
Quinn Manzo
Zach Brown
Yvonne LaRose expressed concerns with the figures proposed for the mural.
Deputy City Clerk Munoz noted the following written comments were received in support of the mural:
Dorothy Bourgeois
Amber Jaeger
Lissa Layng & James Reynolds
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Charles Timmerman
Sharon Mizota
Alisa Diez
Vance Sanders
Josh Albrekston
Jennifer Gillett
Elana Mann
Phung Huynh
Cassandra Kaldor
Karen Tamis
Mark Afram and Maryann Nielsen
Caitlin Lainoff
Lindsey Angelats
Victoria Friesen
Richard Elbaum
Suzanne Edmands
Allie Bowne Schreiner
William Kelly
Vance Sanders
With no other requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
Councilmember Mahmud referenced the City's agreement with the South Pasadena Arts Council (SPARC) and asked if that had any impact on the installation of art on the traffic light controls.
City Attorney Jared stated there were standards that restricted the type of art which gave way for the need of greater standards when it comes to the installation of public art.
Mayor Cacciotti referenced the SPARC agreement and clarified the criteria for the art installed at the City's utility boxes.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if cities that have a public art ordinance, also have a public art policy.
asto Mated wit Chaparyan stated that most cities that have public art, have policies Mayor Cacciotti asked if this item went before the South Pasadena School District in the past.
Deputy Community Development Director Lin stated she wasn't sure if the club went before the School District.
Mayor Cacciotti asked what decision the Library Board of Trustees made when the item came before them.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Deputy Community Development Director Lin stated the Board could not make a decision without a public art policy in place.
City Manager Chaparyan and Library Director Billings provided an overview of the Library Board of Trustees' discussion.
Mayor Cacciotti referenced the limited public forum issue as stated in the staff report.
City Attorney Jared noted this type of mural leaves open the possibility for additional murals because the City does not have a policy.
Councilmember Mahmud asked what would be done to curb vandalism or graffiti on the mural.
Deputy Community Development Director Lin stated the mural would be covered with an anti-graffiti coating.
Councilmember Mahmud asked who would be responsible for the maintenance and any damages to the mural.
City Attorney Jared stated that those issue would be addressed in a public art policy.
Councilmember Zneimer asked about the logistics of painting the mural and the potential liability.
City Attorney Jared stated that the liability would be addressed in the licensing agreement for the mural.
City Manager Chaparyan noted that the size of the mural is 66 feet wide by 7½ feet high.
Councilmember Zneimer noted that an art policy should be established to protect the City against unforeseen circumstances.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth asked if additional public comment time could be given to representatives from the Anti-Bias Club.
City Attorney Jared stated that the Mayor can re-open public comment if that's desired.
Councilmember Mahmud expressed concern regarding having sufficient time to discuss Item No. 17 due to the late hour.
City Manager Chaparyan noted that because it's a public hearing, the earliest Item No. 17 can come back to the City Council is at their April 6th meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Zneimer, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to continue Item No. 17 to the April 6th City Council meeting.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Motion approved 5-0.
City Attorney Jared clarified that Item No. 17 will be re-noticed and brought back to the April 6th City Council meeting.
Mayor Cacciotti re-opened the public comment period.
Noah Kuhn noted that the Anti-Bias Club is covering the installation and maintenance cost of the mural and asked that the remaining issues be discussed in a contract.
Alexa Morales noted that the artist Zach Brown has dedicated a lot of his time to the development of this mural; stated that the remaining issues can be worked out during the contract negotiations.
Mayor Cacciotti asked if the mural project ever went before the school district.
Mr. Kuhn noted that the club did not go before the School District since their preference was to work with the City.
Councilmember Zneimer stated that other ethic groups in the community were not consulted about the mural; noted that the mural would be more appropriate on school district property.
Ms. Morales stated that this proposed mural is a stepping off point and noted that there wasn't a viable wall at the school district.
Councilmember Zneimer noted that the school district did not want to enter into a license agreement with the Anti-Bias club.
Lulu Talesnick noted that they have engaged the community about the mural.
With no other requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
Mayor Cacciotti discussed the number of priorities currently facing the City and the limited number of staff resources.
City Manager Chaparyan discussed the current staff resources and priority projects; noted the current workloads for the Community Development Department and Public Works Department; stated that it would take about a year to bring back a public arts policy to the City Council for consideration.
Councilmember Mahmud expressed her support for the development of a policy; noted concern that public art could be seen as "government speech"; noted that private property would be the most ideal location for the mural.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Mayor Pro Tem Primuth expressed concerns with the legality issues surrounding the mural; stated that if this mural is built on City property, the City would essentially own the mural; supported the development of a public art policy; stated he wouldn't support art that could be seen as political.
Councilmember Zneimer reiterated Mayor Pro Tem Primuth's and Councilmember Mahmud's thoughts; noted that this isn't the same item that the City Council approved back in 2020; expressed support for a public art policy before approving any public art on public property.
Councilmember Donovan expressed his support for a public art policy; generally agreed with the thoughts expressed by other Councilmembers.
Councilmember Mahmud thanked all those who made public comments.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth apologized to those involved in the project for the long timeline.
Mayor Cacciotti thanked those individuals involved in the project for their time and effort; expressed his support for a public art policy.
A motion was made by Mayor Cacciotti, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to direct staff to work on a public art policy based on the comments received by the City Council and bring back the item to a future meeting, permitting the current workload of staff.
Motion carried, 5-0.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth thanked City staff for their efforts on this item and requested that staff work with the students involved in the project to make sure the dialogue continues with the City.
Mayor Cacciotti called for a brief recess.
The meeting was called back to order at 11:39 p.m.
CONSENT CALENDAR - AGENDA ITEM(S) PULLED FOR SEPARATE DISCUSSION
15. APPROVE THE PROPOSED PROJECT LIST AND DIRECT STAFF TO SUBMIT
THE LIST TO THE ARROYO VERDUGO COMMUNITIES JOINT POWER
AUTHORITY (AVCJPA) FOR THE MEASURE M MULTI-YEAR SUBREGIONAL
PROGRAM (MSP) FUNDING PLAN
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council approve the proposed project list and direct staff to submit the list to the Arroyo Verdugo Communities Joint Power Authority (AVCJPA) for the Measure M Multi-year Subregional Program (MSP)
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Funding Plan.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
Public Works Director Gerber made a presentation and provided an overview of the item.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if it would be an issue if the City Council were to allocate funds to active transportation projects without specific locations.
Public Works Director Gerber noted that it is a possibility; stated that staff would like the City Council's feedback tonight and can come back if necessary to clarify any items.
Councilmember Mahmud asked why the Orange Grove Widening project is being proposed since it essentially undoes a previous City project in that same area.
Public Works Director Gerber stated the intent was to direct some of these funds to bring better traffic flow to routes on the north and south corridors, which included work on the medians and improving traffic flow.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth stated that there was considerable discussion amongst the Mobility Transportation & Infrastructure Commission (MTIC) about the Orange Grove Widening project and noted there is a significant amount of accidents in that area.
Councilmember Mahmud asked for the justification around the listed priority of each project as suggested by MTIC.
Public Works Director Gerber stated the priorities were based on public input, funding levels, and the pros and cons of each project.
Councilmember Mahmud asked if there was any consideration to conduct traffic studies for any of the proposed projects.
Public Works Director Gerber stated that the traffic studies would be programed in with the proposed work.
Councilmember Zneimer asked for the reasoning behind's MTIC's recommendation for funding for each project and noted the proposed amounts would not cover the entire project.
Public Works Director Gerber noted that supplemental funding, such as grant funding, would be required for some projects.
Councilmember Zneimer inquired if MTIC considered current projects that are awaiting funding which already have a completed traffic studies.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Public Works Director Gerber stated the MTIC choose to focus the funds on resolving conflicting areas in the City that would improve traffic flow in various areas.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if MTIC considered multi-jurisdictions involved in several of the proposed projects.
Public Works Director Gerber stated that the Commission did discuss that topic and noted that staff has been in contact with other jurisdictions about involvement and shared funding.
Councilmember Zneimer why the proposed projects are focused on car-centric projects on the borders of the City instead of pedestrian and bicycle projects in the heart of the City.
Public Works Director Gerber noted one of the funding goals is to promote multiple jurisdictions to work together to improve traffic sub regionally and noted that improved traffic flow of the corridors would improve quality of life for residents to access those areas.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth noted that there was a big focus on traffic safety when it was discussed at MTIC.
Mayor Cacciotti discussed a previous project in the Orange Grove area and expressed concerns with the likelihood of increased accidents.
Public Work Director Gerber stated given the known accidents and the safety issues in that area, the Commission prioritized the proposed project at Orange Grove.
Councilmember Mahmud referenced proposed project #2, Columbia Street Striping and Signals from Columbia Place to West of Orange Grove Avenue, and asked how many residents on Columbia Place have driveways that are accessible from Columbia Place.
Public Works Director Gerber noted that some of the issues that came up with that project included difficulty to access the street and cars driving too fast on that road; noted that a turn lane would slow down cars and make that area safer.
Councilmember Mahmud noted that project #2 would not benefit many residents as not many people live in that area; expressed concern with the proposed rectangular rapid- flashing beacons (RRFBs) on Huntington Drive; asked if the City has any liability if the RRFBs are installed and the cars don't stop.
City Attorney Jared noted that similar cases have come up in the past and noted those cases went against the public agency.
Councilmember Mahmud discussed another type of pedestrian device that would be safer but might be more expensive.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Public Works Director noted that the Commission did discuss different types of devices that could be used; noted that staff can look to see what type of device would best fit these specific projects.
Councilmember Mahmud asked how those crosswalks referenced with the RRFB projects were chosen.
Public Work Director Gerber noted the Commission and staff recognized those locations as areas in need of the RRFBs due to current needs to improve safety.
Mayor Cacciotti opened the public comment period.
Zoom Public Comment:
• Josh Albrektson recommended to install the merge on the flat area immediately south of Columbia Avenue; noted that some of these funds should be spent on the creation of bike lanes.
Wes Reutimann recommended a hawk traffic signal for Huntington Drive; expressed support for the installation of bike lanes.
• Jose Zavala discussed safety issues around Monterey Road and incorporating bike lanes.
With no other requests to speak, the public comment period was closed.
Mayor Cacciotti noted that the City previously attempted to install bike lanes on El Centro Street and 90% of the residents weren't in favor as it took away too many travel lanes.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance is required near the ramps when installing RRFBs and the cost.
Public Works Director Gerber answered affirmatively and noted that cost can vary; stated that staff has budgeted $240,000 in federal funds for the three proposed locations.
Councilmember Zneimer asked if MTIC considered the hawk signals instead of the RRFBs; noted that she saw one in Phoenix, Arizona that worked effectively.
Mayor Cacciotti discussed the traffic issues and a potential installation of a traffic signal on Garfield Avenue and Monterey Road; asked what kind of outreach can be done with the residents in that area.
Public Works Director Gerber stated the potential installation of a traffic signal would depend on the warrant analysis conducted; stated the staff can conduct public outreach and gather input.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022 Mayor Cacciotti asked if staff would look into traffic synchronization if a signal were to be installed.
Public Works Director Gerber answered affirmatively.
Councilmember Donovan asked if changes could be made to the proposed projects list or if the list has been finalized.
Public Works Director Gerber stated the proposed list isn't final and the City Council has the ability to modify the list.
Councilmember Donovan stated that there isn't enough funding for every project and recommended that MTIC take another look at the list and staff provide public outreach on potential projects.
Public Works Director Gerber stated that there is a limited amount of time to go over the list due to the stringent deadline but the list can go back to the Commission one more time if it is the desire of the City Council; noted that there is flexibility in the funding.
Mayor Pro Tem Primuth stated it would have been beneficial for the City Council to provide parameters to MTIC prior to them developing a project list; discussed if the RRFB are worth the cost.
Councilmember Mahmud recommended looking at each project individually and providing direction to staff.
Mayor Cacciotti asked if there's an expiration date on the funds.
Public Works Director Gerber stated he was unsure if there's an expiration date but noted now is the time to get the funds programmed.
The City Council discussed the priority level and funding for each project and provided the following direction on the project list:
1. Orange Grove Avenue Widening from Olive Street to Arroyo Seco Parkway - send back to MTIC with comments from the City Council and remove from the list of projects.
2. Columbia Street Striping and Signals from Columbia Place to West of Orange Grove Avenue - keep the project on the list and work with the City of Pasadena on collaboration and funding; move project down the priority list.
3. Garfield Avenue and Monterey Road Traffic Signal - keep the project on the list with guidance from residents in the area; look and traffic signal synchronization; cooperate with the City of San Marino on the incorporation of bike lanes.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022
4. Grevelia Street and Fair Oaks Avenue Safety Improvements - keep the project on the list and make it the number one priority project.
5. Rectangular Rapid-Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) - keep the project on the list and direct staff to look at alternative devices and have flexibility on the locations.
6. Meridian Avenue and Oak Street Crosswalk Realignment - keep the project on the list and utilize funds from the savings from project #1.
7. Meridian Avenue Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Complaint curb ramps from Kendall Avenue to Gillette Crescent - keep the project on the list but utilize CDBG funds first.
Councilmembers discussed the installation of bike lanes for the future and provided direction to make them a priority project for future funding.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Primuth, seconded by Councilmember Mahmud and approved by roll call vote to approve the recommendations suggested by the City Council.
Motion carried, 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARING CONTINUED
FIRST READING AND INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 18, ARTICLE VI OF THE SOUTH PASADENA MUNICIPAL CODE
TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF ALL TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND ELECTRONIC
SMOKING DEVICES
ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SOUTH PASADENA
AMENDING CHAPTER 18, ARTICLE VI OF THE SOUTH
PASADENA CITY CODE TO PROHIBIT THE SALE OF ALL
TOBACCO PRODUCTS AND ELECTRONIC SMOKING
DEVICES
Recommendation
It is recommended that the City Council read by title only for first reading, waiving further reading, and introduce an ordinance to amend Chapter 18, Article VI of the South Pasadena Municipal Code to Prohibit the Sale of All Tobacco Products and Electronic Smoking Devices.
COUNCIL ACTION AND MOTION
This item was moved to the April 6, 2022 City Council meeting.
Regular Meeting Minutes South Pasadena City Council March 2, 2022
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further matters, Mayor Cacciotti adjourned the meeting of the City Council on March 3, 2022 at 1:32 a.m., to the next Regular City Council meeting scheduled on Wednesday, March 16, 2022.
Respectfully submitted:
Antellen
Christina Munoz
Deputy City Clerk
APPROVED
Man 1. Cauti
MICHAEL CACCIOTT
MAYOR
Attest:
Cutentuz
Christina Munoz
Deputy City Clerk
Approved at City Council Meeting: 07/20/2022.