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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - City Council - 2001-05-15 112 City Council, Regular Meeting Civic Center Council Chambers 777 Cypress Avenue, Redding, California May 15,2001, 7:00 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Council Member Kight. The Invocation was offered by Dr. Douglas Treadway, Shasta Community College President. I The meeting was called to order by Mayor McGeorge with the following Council Members present: Cibula, Kight, Pohlmeyer, and Stegall. Also present were City Manager Warren, Assistant City Manager Perry, Deputy City Manager Starman, City Attorney Wingate, Development Services Director Hamilton, City Engineer Goodwin, Community Services Director Niemer, City Clerk Strohmayer, and Assistant City Clerk Sherman. CONSENT CALENDAR The following matters were considered inclusively under the Consent Calendar: Approval of Minutes - Regular Meetings of April 3, 2001, and April 17, 2001, and Special Meeting of May 1, 2001. Approval of Payroll and Accounts Payable Register (A-050-100-500) It is recommended that Accounts Payable Register No. 21, check numbers 288944 through 289348 inclusive, in the amount of$2,558,718.32, for the period of May 1,2001, through May 10,2001, and Payroll Register No. 22, electronic deposit transaction numbers 90503 through 91106 inclusive, and check numbers 480124 through 480403 itl the amolipLof $1,600,527.99, for the period of April 15, 2001 through April 28, 2()01,b~( appro~~d. TOTAL $4,159,246.31 I Lease and Permit for Commercial Activities - Catholic Healthcare West Northstate, (dba Mercy Medical Center Redding), at Benton Airpark (C-070-100 & A-090-020) It is the recommendation of the Support Services Director that the City Council approve the Ground Lease and Permit for Commercial Activities with Mercy Medical Center, Redding for hangar and aircraft parking apron space for operation of commercial air ambulance activities at Benton Airpark; effective June 1, 2001, through May 31, 2002, with automatic renewal on a year-to-year basis in the amount of $1 ,51 0.97 monthly with 4% increase each year, and authorize the Mayor to execute. Resolution - Grant from the Great Valley Center's LEGACI Grant Program (G-100/P-050/G-030-070) It is the recommendation of the Community Services Director that Resolution 2001-85 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding authorizing acceptance of a grant in the amount of $20,000 from the Great Valley Center's 2001 LEGACI Grant Program for public participation and outreach programs associated with development of the Parks, Trails and Open Space Master Plan. I Resolution - Appropriating Funds from Self-Insurance Reserves for Workers' Compensation and Liability Programs (B-130-070/R-1 00-950/R-1 00-550) It is the recommendation of the Administrative Services Director that Resolution 2001-86 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding approving and adopting the 94th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 99-93 appropriating an additional $228,000 to fund the Workers' Compensation Program, and an additional $100,000 to fund 05/15/2001 113 the Liability Insurance Program due to significant permanent disability awards and claims in excess of funds budgeted, for fiscal year 2000-01. Resolution - Proclaiming May 20-26, 2001, as "Public Works Week" in the City of Redding (A-050-060-600) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that Resolution 2001-87 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding Proclaiming May 20-26,2001, as "Public Works Week" in the City of Redding. I Reimbursement Agreement - Chatsworth Products, Inc. (A-070-300/W -030-725) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that the City Council approve entering into an agreement with, Chatsworth Products, Inc. (Chatsworth) requiring the City to reimburse Chatsworth for costs associated with oversizing the water main in Lockheed Drive and Devere Road incompliance with Redding Municipal Code Section 14.08.130.B.2, and in compliance with the Master Water Plan, for a-not-to-exceed amount of $80,000. . Selection of Construction Manager for the Redding Aquatic Center (Redding Plunge) Proiect - Authorize Mayor to execute contract (P-050-700-600) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that the City Council approve the contract for construction management services for the Redding Aquatic Center with Willdan Engineers & Planners in an amount not-to-exceed $155,850, and provide a contingency fund of$15,600, for a total contract amount of$171,450, and authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement. I Final Map and Subdivision Agreement - Meridian Pointe Subdivision (a.k.a. Greenway Estates, Unit 2), S-2-98, south of Hartnell Avenue and east of Churn Creek Road (S-100-248) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that the City Council approve the final map for Meridian Pointe Subdivision (a.k.a. Greenway Estates, Unit 2), S-2-98, developed by Gray Development Corporation, authorize the Mayor to sign the subdivision agreement, and instruct the City Clerk to file the map with the Shasta County Recorder. Award of Bid - Bid Schedule No. 3459, Enterprise Wells Nos. 12 and 13 Pump Stations (B-050-020 & W-030-750) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that the City Council award Bid Schedule No. 3459, (Job No. 2129) Enterprise Wells Nos. 12 and 13 Pump Stations, to MDS Construction, Inc., in the amountof$561,629; and approve an additional amount of $45,000 to cover the cost of engineering and inspection fees; and $110,000 to provide a construction contingency fund for a total of$716,629. Resolution - Accepting Streets and Accept Improvements for Eagle Ridge Estates Subdivision (a.k.a. Sunshine Ridge Estates), S-1-92, north of Buenaventura Boulevard and east of Summit Drive (S-100-727 & S-070-230) It is the recommendation of the Assistant City Manager that Resolution 2001-88 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding accepting for maintenance and operation, Tradition Way, Tea Rose Court, Wisteria Court, Sea Lavender Court and Silver Lace Lane in the Eagle Ridge Estates Subdivision (aka Sunshine Ridge Estates Subdivision), developed by Signature Northwest. I It is further recommended that the improvements in the Eagle Ridge Estates Subdivision be accepted as satisfactorily completed and that the City Clerk be instructed to return the securities to the developer. Reiect Bids - Redding Police Department Remodel Project (B-050-020 & C-050-550) It is the recommendation of staff that the City Council reject all bids for the police building remodel due to a discrepancy in the bid process regarding advertising, and that staff and the project architect be directed to re-evaluate the scope of work for possible rebid in November 2001. 05/15/2001 114 Notice oflntent to Acquire Property - Redding Sports Complex Project (C-070-010 & P-050-600-200) It is the recommendation of the City Attorney that the City Council authorize the City Clerk to mail by first class mail a notice of intent to adopt a resolution of necessity to acquire property by eminent domain at the regular meeting of the City Council on June 5, 2001, to the following property owner: Pacific Gas & Electric Company, 20155 Viking Way (APN 109-040-07), for the Redding Sports Complex Project. MOTION: Made by Council Member Kight, seconded by Council Member Pohlmeyer that all the foregoing items on the Consent Calendar be approved and adopted as recommended. The Vote: I Ayes: Noes: Absent: Abstain: Council Members - Cibula, Kight, Pohlmeyer, Stegall, and McGeorge Council Members - None Council Members - None Council Members - None Resolution Numbers 2001-85, 2001-86, 2001-87 and 2001-88, are on file in the Office of the City Clerk. LETTER OF RESIGNATION - Community Services Advisory Commission (B-080-128) . MOTION: Made by Council Member Kight, seconded by Council Member Stegall accepting the resignation of James D. Chapin from the Community Services Advisory Commission effective May 16,2001. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes DONA nON OF FUNDS - Aquatics Center (Redding Plunge) (P-050-700-600) A letter was received from Pastor Mike Kerns of Vineyard City Church donating funds in the amount of $1 ,000 for the Aquatics Center project, and thanking the City for assisting in the 151 Annual City-Wide Easter Egg Hunt/Family Fun Day. I MASTER PLAN FACILITIES DEVELOPMENT UPDATE (E-060-625) Shasta Community College President Dr. Douglas Treadway gave a presentation regarding the Master Plan for Facilities Development for the Shasta- T ehama- Trinity Joint Community College District (District). Dr. Treadway explained that the District has not undertaken any major new facilities developments since the original construction of the Stillwater Campus in the 1960's, with the exception of a temporary site in Red Bluff as a staging area for a future campus for Tehama County. He related that the District's Master Plan for Facilities Development will serve as a planning guide for future growth and program enhancement through the year 2012. Dr. Treadway explained that since the Stillwater Campus was constructed, the population of the District has doubled and Shasta College has reached an enrollment pattern wherein most classrooms are in use, even though the College has moved more programs to year-round offering. Dr. Treadway presented a brief summary of the. Master Plan's needs and priorities, explaining that the 2003-07 Five-Year Construction Plan sets forth 15 capital improvement projects, of which the following five have received Board approval: Warehouse/Physical Plan offices - 3,891 sq. ft. Architectural Barrier Removal Student Center Annex - 18,000 sq. ft. Parking Lot Additions Library Addition - 14,650 sq. ft. $ 700,000 $ 490,000 $4,500,000 $ 500,000 $7,317,000 I Dr. Treadway related that two-thirds of the $67 million expansion/improvements will be financed locally, and Assemblyman Dickerson has introduced a legislative bill to assist with funding. He commented that two projects not included on the list are a merger with the Prime Minister's Council and a Turtle Bay research facility. 05/15/2001 115 Mayor McGeorge thanked Dr. Treadway for the report regarding Shasta College, and for his assistance in the recent visit by representatives for the State Veteran's Horne Facility. Mr. McGeorge indicated he was impressed with everyone that carne out in support of locating the hospital in Redding. I STATUS REPORT - Clover Creek Project (S-060-150-165) Deputy City Manager Starman provided an overview of the Report to City Council dated May 10, 2001, incorporated herein by reference, regarding the status of the Clover Creek Project. Mr. Starman explained that as the project advanced, it became apparent that the name, Clover Creek Flood Control and Environmental Enhancement Project, should be changed to better reflect the facility's new appearance and emerging multi-purpose potential. After review, it was determined that The Clover Creek Preserve (Preserve) was more aesthetically pleasing and descriptive of the project. Mr. Starman provided a brief history of the $7.2 million, 128-acre site project located east of the incomplete section of Shasta View Drive, south of Forest Hills Estates, north of Highland Oaks, and west of a rural County development. He indicated that the Preserve will provide flood protection to over 5,000 acres of Clover Creek watershed with the capability to withstand a rain event equivalent to what would be expected on a 100-year frequency. He advised Council that staff performed due diligence on the design phase of the Preserve to keep the basin relatively small, and continues to work with area residents to keep them informed and to invite their participation in certain elements of the design. I Mr. Starman related that completion of the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is expected by Fall 2001, at which time the project will go out to bid. He explained that project completion is expected by early Fall of2002, and will coincide with completion ofthe Shasta View Drive extension project. He pointed out that while the Preserve's purpose is flood control, its construction presented an opportunity to fulfill a goal to create a natural open space featuring a year-round lake, nearly two miles of paved bicycle paths, 25 miles of walking and interpretive trails, and landscaping which will include planting more than 6,000 trees. According to Mr. Starman, the completed project will be viewed as an enhanced open space area with many recreational opportunities and should be well received by the community. In response to Council Member Cibula, Mr. Starman indicated that Fairy Shrimp were discovered in a single vernal pool on the property and care is being taken to avoid or minimize project impacts on this pool and its inhabitants. In addition, colonies of a rare plant called the Red Bluff Dwarf Rush were also discovered on the property and every effort is being made to reestablish the plant in the three acre, newly-created wetlands the City purchased off site. Mr. Starman stated that this acreage will be protected from further development. Council Member Cibula applauded staffs efforts to address two issues in one project. He opined that the project, when complete, will not only provide flood control in keeping with its designated purpose, but will also make available recreational opportunities for area residents and the public. This was an information item only, no action was required. I SUBSEQUENT MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION - Revised Clover Creek Flood Protection and Environmental Enhancement Project (L-OI0-070 & S-060-150-165) Development Services Director Hamilton provided and overview of the Report to Council dated May 4,2001, incorporated herein by reference, regarding adoption of a subsequent mitigated negative declaration for the revised Clover Creek Flood Protection and Environmental Enhancement Project. Mr. Hamilton explained that since ratification by Council of the Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) for this project in August 2000, the preliminary engineering and design phase has gen~rated changes significant enough to necessitate re-circulation of the MND in compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The changes are as follows: I) Place 320,000 cubic yards of fill on adjacent property to the east; 2) construct a 60-inch outlet pipe from the basin south along Goodwater Avenue to enter Clover Creek 3,000 feet south; and 3) address the impacts of 05/15/2001 116 the completion of Shasta View Drive. Mr. Hamilton added that completing this project in an expeditious manner is crucial to satisfy the court settlement, and it is staff s belief that the potential impacts identified in the Initial Study have been adequately addressed. It is the recommendation of staff that Council adopt the Subsequent Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program for the Clover Creek Project incorporating the revised project design. In response to Council Member Kight, Mr. Hamilton explained that the Department ofFish & Game (DFG) requires that the City prepare a Wetlands Restoration, Management, and Monitoring Plan to establish performance criteria for success of the on-site wetlands creation and preservation. Part of the criteria established requires the City to conduct seven monitorings annually over a ten-year monitoring period which will necessitate hiring a biologist to perform the work. I I Project Manager Mort August indicated that the cost of a biologist will possibly add an additional $5,000 to the cost of the overall project, and a Request for Proposal (RFP) for those services will be issued at the time the construction project is awarded. MOTION: Made by Council Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Stegall adopting the Subsequent Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program, and approving the revised project design for the Clover Creek Flood Control and Environmental Enhancement Project (formerly the Clover Creek Project). The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. STADIUM NAMING CONTEST - Sports Complex (P-050-600-200) Community Services Director Niemer highlighted the Report to Council dated May 1, 2001, incorporated herein by reference, regarding the proposed naming contest for the Redding Sports Complex. Ms. Niemer recalled that the agreement with Big League Dreams USA for operation and management of the new Sports Complex recently approved by Council includes three replica stadiums built with facades depicting major league ball parks. The City has the option of selecting which stadiums it would like to replicate. Ms. Niemer suggested that the Sport Complex Committee can oversee a public opinion poll and short -list the stadiums to be considered. Staffbelieves this process should include public participation and cooperation from the local media in launching a campaign to involve the community in the selection of three stadiums. Ms. Niemer pointed out that the Complex's design phase is moving forward making it necessary to make the selections within the next few months because it will impact field dimensions. I It is the recommendation of staff that the City Council authorize the Sports Complex Committee to oversee a contest involving the community to select the replica stadiums for the new Sports Complex. Council expressed enthusiastic support for community participation in this phase of the project. MOTION: Made by Council Member Kight, seconded by Council Member Cibula authorizing the Sports Complex Committee to oversee a contest involving the community for selection of the three replica stadiums for the new Sports Complex. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. CITY'S SELF INSURANCE PROGRAMS (P-100-150) Administrative Services Director Bachman, assisted by Personnel Manager Johnson provided an in-depth review ofthe City's Self-Insurance Programs. Mr. Bachman explained that the City of Redding has been self-insured for its Group Health, Workers' Compensation and Liability Insurance Programs for more than ten years. The fund, maintained by the City to pay claims, is reviewed annually by an outside actuarial to ensure that funding levels and reserve amounts will preserve ongoing solvency of the fund, and maintain costs consistently below comparable insurance available on the commercial market. Over the last 18 months, the City has experienced a dramatic increase in the Group Health, and the Workers' I 05/15/2001 117 Compensation Insurance Programs' cost due primarily to escalating health care costs, changes in state Workers' Compensation Law, and significant claims for catastrophic illness. I Mr. Bachman then provided an overview of the City's Group Health Insurance Fund (medical, prescription, dental, vision, life and long-term disability programs) totaling approximately $7.5 million, and the Risk Management Fund (worker's compensation and general liability programs) totaling approximately $3 million. He reviewed the cost history of the Group Insurance Program beginning with fiscal year 1997-98, with expenditures totaling $5,547,838, and concluding with a budgeted amount of $8,507,330 for fiscal year 2002-03. He pointed out that the most significant increases were experienced from fiscal year 1998-99 to 1999-00 when insurance costs rose 15.7%, and again from 1999-00 to 2000- 01 when the City was hit with an increase of 19.7%. He presented the Group Health Program History from 1991 to present day depicting revenue, expense, net income and cash balances, and the Group Health Composite Family Rate illustrating the average premium cost in fiscal year 1997-98 of$465.00, versus the budgeted cost for fiscal year 2002-03 of $735.00; an increase of approximately 39%. Mr. Bachman pointed out that insurance consultant, ABD Insurance Services Financial, recently provided a summary funding recommendation for the City's medical, prescription and dental plans for the period July 1,2001, through June 20, 2002, in the amount if $822.82 per month for each covered employee or retiree - a 63.36% increase over current funding levels. He explained that ongoing cost containment efforts in the Group Health Program, including consultant review of plan design, negotiated changes in benefit design (cost- sharing, etc.), the Wellness program, annual physicals, a Health Insurance Task Force and employee education are proving effective, but stressed that health industry costs are skyrocketing. I Mr. Bachman reviewed the Risk Management Plan structure including cost history and processing for Workers' Compensation claims, and General Liability claims. He expressed confidence that through internal and external expertise, the self-insurance programs for the City will continue to be viable, and prove to be the most cost-effective way for the City to meet its insurance needs. It is the recommendation of staff that the Council accept the report regarding the City's Health and Risk Management Self-Insurance Programs. In response to Council Member Cibula, Mr. Bachman explained that the City's programs are sound and cost-effective; however, escalating rates in the Group Health Insurance Program are due not only to the rising cost of medical services, but also to high utilization of the plan. Council Member Cibula questioned the progress of the City's Wellness Program. Mr. Bachman advised that there are currently 200 employees participating in the program, and results thus far are very positive. He indicated that staff will bring a report to Council in October detailing the progress and results of the program. Council Member Pohlmeyer indicated an interest in re-evaluating self insurance. Mr. Bachman responded that review of the plan is conducted annually and self-insurance continues to be the best method available to meet the challenge to contain costs and manage the City's insurance. I In response to Council Member Pohlmeyer, City Attorney Wingate explained that costs for defense provided by outside counsel of claims against the City are accounted for in the City Attorney's budget. Council Member Pohlmeyer appreciated the information provided, but expressed interest in receiving more detailed information and scheduling a study session to provide for more questions and answers City Manager Warren advised that staff would develop a separate package for Council Member Pohlmeyer. 05/1512001 118 MOTION: Made by Council Member Cibula, seconded by Council Member Pohlmeyer, accepting the report regarding the City's Health and Risk Management Self-Insurance Programs. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. PUBLIC COMMENT (E-120-030 & A-050-060) Fran Jenkins, Redding resident, expressed appreciation to the City Council and staff for the recent Energy Fair held at the Civic Center. She applauded the wealth of information provided regarding the latest technology in pursuit of energy conservation, indicating that everyone who attended learned something new. Ms. Jenkins also complimented City Council for their efforts in support of locating the Veterans' Home Facility (Home) in Redding. She announced that she was developing three resolutions in support oflocating the Home in Shasta County and urged other groups and individuals to demonstrate their support. I ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at the hour of 8:15 p.m., Mayor McGeorge declared the meeting adjourned. APPROVED fibI/j!/~ Mayor . ATTEST: I ~~~~ City Clerk I' I 05/15/2001