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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - City Council - 2003-10-07 199 City Council, Regular Meeting Civic Center Council Chambers 777 Cypress Avenue, Redding, California October 7,2003, 7:00 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag was led by Chief of Police Moty. The Invocation was offered by Police Chaplain Ray Faust. I The meeting was called to order by Mayor Cibula with the following Council Members present: Kight, Mathena, Pohlmeyer, and Stegall. Also present were City Manager Warren, Assistant City Manager Perry, Deputy City Manager Starman, City Attorney Fuller, Independent Counsel Steven Meyers, Administrative Services Director Bachman, Development Services Director Hamilton, Planning Manager Keaney, Police Chief Moty, City Clerk Strohmayer, Assistant City Clerk Sherman, and Executive Secretary Stribley. RESOLUTION - "Breast Cancer Awareness Month," "Think Pink Day," and "National Mammography Day" (A-050-060-600) Melody Christenson, President of Nor-Cal Think Pink, thanked the City Council for its continued support and promotion of the importance of breast cancer awareness and the "Think Pink" Campaign. I MOTION: Made by Council Member Stegall, seconded by Council Member Kight, adopting Resolution No. 2003-150, a resolution ofthe City Council of the City of Redding declaring October 2003, "Breast Cancer Awareness Month," October 16,2003, as "Think Pink Day," and October 17,2003, as "National Mammography Day." The Vote: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: Council Members - Kight, Mathena, Pohlmeyer, Stegall, and Cibula Council Members - None Council Members - None Council Members - None Resolution No. 2003-150 is on file in the Office of the City Clerk. PRESENTATION - "Platinum Lung Award" (A-050-060) Patty Davis, Executive Director of the American Lung Association of California, Superior Branch and on behalf of the Breath Program, presented the City with an American Lung Association Platinum Lung Public Health Award through the California's Smoke-Free Bars, Workplaces, and Communities Program recognizing the City of Redding's exemplary compliance with the California smoke-free indoor air law. On behalf of the City Council, Mayor Cibula thanked Ms. Davis for the award and the work of the organization to protect the health ofthe community. I PRESENT AnON - 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Whiskeytown Dam Dedication (A-050-060) Jim Milestone, Whiskeytown National Park Service Superintendent, presented the City Council with copies of The 40th Anniversary of President Kennedy's Dedication of Whiskeytown Dam booklet and the publi~ation From the White House to Whiskeytown. He recalled the common goals shared by the City of Redding, Shasta County and the National Park Service to promote the Whiskeytown Recreational Area dating back to 1945. He pointed out that Redding native James K. Carr served as Under Secretary of the Interior for the U.S. Department of the Interior during the Kennedy administration and was key in the development of the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. 10/7/2003 200 Mr. Milestone thanked Council Member Stegall for her thoughtful comments at the reception cOIIlmemoniting the 40th Anniver~ary of the Whi~keytown Dam Dedication, and Vice Mayor Pohlm~yer for his \nspiratio,-lal speech at the official cere~ony. He also thanked the Redding Area B~s Authority (RABA) for proviqing free tnmsportation to and from the festivities held at the Whiskeytown Dll;m. Approval of Minutes - Regular and Special Meetings ofSeptt::m~er 16, 200~. , 1 Approval of Payroll and Accounts Payable Registers (A-050-100-500) . " , : I It is reGommended that' Accounts Payable Register No.6, check numbers 811241 tl}.rough 811772 inclusive, in the amOlmt of $9,383,275.67, Jor the period of September 16, 2003, through September 30,2003; Wire Transfers for the period of September 15, 2003, through September 30,2003, in the amount of$1 ,054,682.66; and Payroll Register No.7 electronic deposit trans,action numbers 132S57 through 133264 ~nd check Q.umbers 51082,8 through 511 Q88 inclusive, in the amoup,t of $1,963,810.24, for the period of September 13, 2003, through September 27,2003, be approved. .' TOTAL: $12,401,768.57 Treasurer's Report - August 2003 (A-050-100-600) Total Trea~urer's Accountability $130,818,895.29 Total City of Redding Funds, Fupd,s Held in Trust, a,n4 Funds of Related Entities $193,072,620.33 Ordinance - Rezoning property at 1100 Brandon Court (L-OI0-230) \ It is the recommendation of the Devt::Jopment Services Director that Ordinance No. 2316 be adopted, an ordinance ofthe City Council ofthe City of Redding amending the City's Zoning Map from "NC" Neighborho~d Co~mercial to "RM-15" Residential Multiple Family District (RZ-6-03), for one' acre of property located at 1100 Brandon Court, by Kay A. Williams. Letter of Support - California Public Library Construction and Renovation Board (G-I00-170 & L-050) It is, the recomJTIend~tion of the City Manager that the City Council authorize a letter of support for the City of Redding and County of Shasta library grant application to the California Public Library Construction and RenovatioI?- Board. I Quarterly Property Status Report (C-070) " . It is the recommendatiop of the Assistant City Manager that the City Council accept the Quarterly Property Status Report as, of September 20, 2003, which includes the following: 1) Surplus City Property; 2) Leases of City Land; 3) Offers to sell Land to the City; and 4) City-Initiated Purchases of Land. , , ' Request to Defer Building Related Fees - Webb B. Morrow, Jr. (C-070 & E-050) . . It is the recommendation of the Deputy City Manager that the City Council enforce the original agreement with Webb B. ~orrow, Jr. and deny the request to continue deferral of $66,190.86 for failure to constfl:lct a building at 3642 Thunderbird Drive in th,e Airport Business Park, making the fees now due a~d payable. ;- : , Downpayment Assistance Program and related programs - Policy Modification (R-030-100-400) , , It is the recommendation of the Deputy City Manager that the City Council adopt the policy I moqifications to the Downpayment Assistance Pro~am (DAP), the Neighborhood Focus Area Downpayment .Assist~mce Program (DAP PJus), the Homeownership Assistance . Program (HAP), and \ thy New Futu,r,es;Home Purchase program (New Futures) allowing deduction of homeowner improyements, cash out, for major system repairs, repayment choices, anq, secondary,financil1g to buyers of RedeveJopment Agency-assiste<;l owner- occupied units within target ndghborhoods. , ' Resolution - Appropriating funds for replacement of Airport MaintenaI:1ce Vehicle (B-130-070 & A-090-100) It is the recommendation ofthe Support Services Director that Resolution No. 2003-151 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding approving and adopting the 11 th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 2003-103 advancing $22,000 to the Airports Division ~ utility truck due to an unanticipated loss of a vehicle. 10/7/2003 I I I 201 Ground Lease Agreement and Permit for Commercial Activities - Redding Aero Enterprises, Inc. (C-070-100 & A-090-100) It is the recommendation of the Support Services Director that the City Council approve a Ground Lease Agreement and Permit for Commercial Activities with Redding Aero Enterprises in the amount of$5,611.20 annually, including a 3% annual increase, for a 60 ft. by 334 ft. aircraft parking apron at Redding Municipal Airport. The term is October 1, 2003, through September 30, 2009. Monthly Financial Report - Electric Utility (B-130-070) It is the recommendation of the Electric Utility Director that the City Council approve the Electric Utility's MontWy Financial Report for August 2003. Retail power sales revenue is' 9.2%, or $1 ,215,068 above projections and wholesale power sales through August are 40.7% or $2,805,794 below proj ections. Operating revenue after energy costs is $623,979 or 7.4% below projections. The total cost of electricity through August 2003 is $856,092 or 7.2% below projections. The Utility's net operating results through August is $3,647,529 or $25,961 below plan for the period. Award of Bid - Bid Schedule No. 3661, upgrade and remodel ofthe Redding Electric Utility Power Control Center (B-050-020 & E-090-090) It is the recommendation ofthe Electric Utility Director that Bid Schedule No. 3661, upgrade and remodel of the Redding Electric Utility Power Control Center, be awarded to Engell Construction in the amount of $249,999.99 and authorize the City Manager to approve construction change orders in a total amount not-to-exceed $25,000. Consulting and Professional Services Agreement - Ronald Beyer, Architect (C-050-275-080) It is the recommendation of the Fire Chief that the City Council authorize the Mayor to execute a Consulting and Professional Services Agreement with Ronald Beyer for the design of Fire Station No.8 in an amount not-to-exceed $96,000. Proposal to provide law enforcement services - Shasta College (P-150-150 & E-060-625) It is the recommendation of the Police Chief that the City Council approve submittal of a proposal to partner with Shasta College providing law enforcement services performed by the Redding Police Department in concert with Shasta College officers at a cost to the College of $199,110, with the final contract to be brought before the City Council for consideration at a later date. /,; Resolution - Accepting and appropriating grant funds from the U.S. Department of Justice for the Universal Hiring Program (G-I00-070 & P-150-150) It is the recommendation of the Police Chief that Resolution No. 2003-152 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding approving and adopting the 15th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 2003-103 accepting and appropriating $75,000 in grant funds from the U.S. Department of Justice through the Universal Hiring Program to provide two additional full-time police officer positions. Monthly Financial Report - General Fund (B-130-070) It is the recommendation ofthe Administrative Services Director that the City Council accept the General Fund's Monthly Financial Report for August 2003. Total revenue at the end of August is $7.5 million or $41,804 (0.6%) below staffs cash flow projeCtion. Expenditures at month end, excluding encumbrances, total $10,213,657 or $844,439 (7.7%) below staffs original cash flow projection. Encumbrances total $3,626,183. Resolution - Appropriating funds for a consultant to evaluate American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance (B-130-070 & L-040-070-040) It is the recommendation of the Administrative Services Director that Resolution No. 2003- 153 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding approving and adopting the 16th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 2003 -103 appropriating $ 80,000 to retain a consultant to provide an evaluation of the City's compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) and update the City's ADA Transition Plan. 10/7/2003 202 " Notice of Completion - Bid Schedule No. 3637, Pond No. I Sludge Dredging (B-050-020) It is the recommendation ofthe Development Services Director that Bid Schedule No. 3637, (Job No. 5331), Pond No.1 Sludge Dredging, awarded to Synagro West, Inc., be accepted as satisfactorily completed and the City Clerk be authorized to file a Notice of Completion. The final contract amount is $81,851.20. Award of Bid - Bid Schedule No. 3675, Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Digester Improvements (B-050-020 & W-OI0-450) It is the recommendation ofthe Assistant City Manager that Bid Schedule No. 3675 (Job No. 2209-70), Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant Digester Improvements, be awarded to TICO Construction in the amount of $200,000, an additional $20,000 for administration, inspection, and outside materials testing and special inspections, and an additional $35,000 for a construction contingency fund for a total amount of$255,000. I Resolution - Approving the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Overall Goals and Methodology (G-I00-070-070) It is the recommendation of the Development Services Director that Resolution No. 2003- 154 be adopted, a resolution of the City Council of the City of Redding adopting the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) Program and setting an overall goal for federal fiscal year 2003-04 of 5.8% as it pertains to Federal Highway Administration Funding. MOTION: Made by Council Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Stegall, that all the foregoing items on the Consent Calendar be approved and adopted as recommended. The Vote: AYES: Council Members - Kight, Mathena, Pohlmeyer, Stegall, and Cibula NOES: Council Members - None ABSTAIN: Council Members - None ABSENT: Council Members - None Ordinance No. 2316 and Resolution Nos. 2003-150, 2003-151, 2003-152, 2003-153, and 2003-154 are on file in the Office ofthe City Clerk. I LETTER OF RESIGNATION - Community Services Advisory Commission (B-080-128) Mayor Cibula recommended acceptance, with regret, of the letter of resignation submitted by Ted Klaseen from the Community Services Advisory Commission, thanking him for his service to the community. MOTION: Made by Council Member Stegall, seconded by Council Member Kight, accepting the resignation of Ted Klaseen from the Community Services Advisory Commission. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes LETTER OF RESIGNATION - Community Services Advisory Commission (B-080-128) Mayor Cibula recommended acceptance, with regret, of the letter of resignation submitted by Leo J. Graham from the Community Services Advisory Commission, thanking him for his service to the community. MOTION: Made by Council Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Mathena, accepting the resignation of Leo J. Graham from the Community Services Advisory Commission. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes PUBLIC HEARING - Spending Plan for Citizens Option for Public Safety (COPS) Program funds; and RESOLUTION - Accepting and appropriating grant funds (G-I00-170/B-130-070/P-150-150) The hour of7 :00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Cibula opened the public hearing regarding the proposed spending plan for State funds received under the Citizens Option for Public Safety (COPS) Program. I 101712003 203 The following document is on file in the Office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. I Police ChiefMoty highlighted the Report to City Council dated September 26, 2003, regarding grant funding provided through the Citizens Option for Public Safety (COPS) program. He pointed out that this year's grant amounts to $127,660 and will be used to provide a Network Programmer for the Integrated Public Safety System (IPSS) and will pay a portion of the salary for a Network Technician to maintain the Police Department's main and laptop computers. Chief Moty recommended that the City Council approve the proposed spending plan adopt a resolution accepting and appropriating $127,660 in State COPS funds. Mayor Cibula determined that no one present wished to address this matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: Made by Council Member Stegall, seconded by Council Member Pohlmeyer, approving the proposed spending plan for the Citizen's Option for Public Safety Program grant funding and adoptihgResolution No. 2003-155, aresolutionofthe City Council of the City of Redding approving and adopting the 13th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 2003-103 accepting and appropriating $127,660 in State Citizens Option for Public Safety Program grant funds for fiscal year 2003-04. The Vote: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: Council Members - Kight, Mathena, Pohlmeyer, Stegall, and Cibula Council Members - None Council Members - None Council Members - None I Resolution No. 2003-155 is on file in the Office ofthe City Clerk. PUBLIC HEARING - Proposed Use of2003 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Funds; and RESOLUTION - Accepting and appropriating grant funds (G-I00-070/B-130-070/P-150-150) The hour of7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Cibula opened the public hearing regarding the proposed use of 2003 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Funds. The following document is on file in the Office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. I Police Chief Moty recalled that the City Council approved an application for block grant funding in the amount of $75,246 under the U.S. Department of Justice Local Law Enforcement Block Grant during its regular meeting of August 5, 2003. He explained that this amount includes a 10% funding match from the City in the amount of $7,524. The Federal Block Grant funding program guidelines require that these funds be used in one of seven purpose areas with the intent of reducing crime and improving public safety, and must augment currently budgeted funds. Chief Moty explained that this year's funding will be used for the Integrated Public Safety System (IPSS), Police Mobile Data System, and a portion of personnel costs for a Network Technician position. He noted that the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant Advisory Board approved the proposed allocation of funds on September 25, 2003. Chief Moty recommended that the proposed spending plan for the Local Law Enforcement Federal Block Grant funds be approved, and a resolution be adopted accepting and appropriating the grant funds. Mayor Cibula determined that no one present wished to address this matter and closed the public hearing. 10/7/2003 204 MOTION: Made by Coun~il Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Mathena, approving the Federal Block Grant Utilization Spending Plan and adopting Resolution No. 2003-156, a resolution of the City Council ofthe City of Redding approving and adopting the 14th amendment to City Budget Resolution No. 2003-103 accepting and appropriating $67,730 in U.S. Department of Justice Local Law Enforcement Block Grant funds for fiscal year 2003-04. The Vote: AYES: NOES: ABSTAIN: ABSENT: Council Members - Kight, Mathena, Pohlmeyer, Stegall, and Cibula Council Members - None Council Members - None Council Members - None I Resolution No. 2003-156 is on file in the Office of the City Clerk. PUBLIC HEARING - Appeal filed by Al Naticchioni re Meek's Building Center Site Development Permits SDP-22-03 and SDP-D-15-03 (L-010-390-700 & L-01 0-390-1 00) The hour of7 :00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Cibula opened the public hearing regarding the appeal filed by Al Naticchioni of Site Development Permits SDP-22-03 and SDP-D-15-03 for Meek's Building Center (Meek's) located at 935, 943, 995, and 1045 Twin View Boulevard. The following documents are on file in the Office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Mailing - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. Planning Manager Keaney provided an overview of the Report to City Council dated September 26, 2003, incorporated herein by reference, recalling that Site Development Application SDP-D-15-03 was submitted by Meek's Building Center (Meek's) to construct a 5,000 square-foot truss-manufacturing building and a 14,000 square-foot assembly and warehouse building at its present business location on Twinview Boulevard. Due to the size and nature ofthe application, Mr. Keaney explained that the Development Services Director approved the Site Permit in July 2003 by authority provided in the City's Zoning Code. The approval ofthe application was subsequently appealed by Al N aticchioni, the property owner to the south and southeast ofthe Meek's site and was also appealed by Meek's with regard to certain conditions contained in the Conditions of Approval. I Mr. Keaney related that because Meek's subsequently submitted Site Development Permit SDP-22-03 requesting to construct a 7,425 square-foot lumber storage building and expand the existing outdoor storage yard at the same location, Staff determined that the Planning Commission should consider the new permit application along with the appeals previously submitted by the applicant and appellant at its meeting of August 26,2003. Mr. Keaney recalled that the Planning Commission approved the new permit application SDP-22-03 and upheld Meek's appeal and a portion of the appeal filed byMr. Naticchioni ofSDP-D-15-03 regarding certain conditions of approval which were modified accordingly. He pointed out that Mr. N aticchioni then appealed both site development permits to the City Council based on his assertions that modifications to the Conditions of Approval did not sufficiently address his concerns which included alleged General Plan and Zoning Ordinance inconsistencies, use permit violations, storm-drain and water quality concerns, and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) non-compliance. Development Services Director Hamilton added that Mr. N aticchioni is not requesting denial of the project, but contends that the City should include with the Conditions of Approval additional requirements such as 10- foot property setbacks and additional landscaping along the driveway adjacent to his property. I Mr. Keaney related that the appeal focuses on environmental issues, storm drain runoff and land use compatibility, and demands that Meek's existing development be included in the review process along with the new buildings. Mr. Keaney explained that staff investigated each of Mr. Naticchioni's allegations and all were found to be unsubstantiated. 10/7/2003 205 In disputing alleged General Plan and Zoning Ordinance inconsistencies, Mr. Keaney referenced Redding Municipal Code Section (RMC) 18.01.060A which allows building materials storage and sales businesses in Heavy Commercial "HC" Districts, and truss manufacturing and door and window assembly is a typical accessory use for a building materials business. The proposed building size and setbacks conform to standards of the "HC" District and only require a site development permit because ofthe combined area of the proposed buildings. Mr. Keaney added that surrounding properties are also zoned "H C." I With regard to land use compatibility issues raised by Mr. Naticchioni, Mr. Keaney explained that the "HC" District provides that buildings must be constructed to the rear or side property lines with no setback standard. He pointed out that this provides a visual screen of the truss manufacturing operation and some yard activity and also provides a noise buffer which will decrease existing levels. He related that the existing residence on Mr. Naticchioni's property is a non-conforming use and, as such, is not considered under noise impacts. Mr. Keaney added that Mr. Naticchioni has made known his intentions to remove the residence and move forward, in the near future, with development of a motel and office complex on the property. He added that the Conditions of Approval provide noise mitigation such as specific hours of operation and, to date, there have been no noise complaints with existing activities at Meek's. As an in-fill development, Mr. Keaney related that this project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption under CEQA Section 153332 and, therefore, conforms to CEQA requirements. He indicated that environmental concerns regarding storm-drain runoff are unfounded as the Conditions of Approval require that storm drain run-off may not exceed pre-1991 levels without further mitigation provided by Meek's. He added that Meek's will also be required to obtain a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Permit from the Regional Water Quality Control Board. I Mr. Keaney advised that Mr. Naticchioni also asked that Meek's be required to construct a masonry wall and install landscaping as part of the Conditions of Approval. Mr. Keaney stated, however, that while Meek's would be required to provide screening on Twin View Road with a masonry wall and landscaping, additional landscaping at the back of the development would be pointless because it would be impossible to maintain and would front a proposed driveway. As to Mr. Naticchioni's allegation that contaminants, grease, oil, arsenic, and chromium were being discharged onto his property from Meek's in the area of the storm drain system, Mr. Keaney countered that the City's Industrial Wastewater Division performed a field inspection of the site and found no violations. The City also spoke with representatives from Meek's. who related that those contaminants were not used in lumber processes. I Mr. Keaney explained that certain CEQA and site development permit findings must be made if the City Council determines to deny the appeal. CEQA findings requires that: 1) CEQA findings require that the project is consistent with applicable General Plan designation and all applicable General Plan policies and zoning designations and regulations, 2) the proposed development occurs within City limits on a project site of no more than five acres substantially surrounded by urban uses, 3) the project site has no value as habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species, 4) approval ofthe projects would not result in any significant effects relating to traffic noise, air quality, or water quality, 5) the site can be adequately served by all required utilities and public services. Site development permit findings require that: 1) the proposed use will not be detrimental to the health, safety, and general welfare of persons residing or working in the neighborhood of the proposed use, 2) the proposed use will not be injurious or detrimental to the general welfare of the City, 3) the proposed use is consistent with the goals and policies established by the General Plan and the Zoning Code, and 4) the proposed use and project design are consistent with the Design Guidelines established by resolution of the City Council in accordance with Section 18.40.050-Design Criteria. Mr. Keaney recommended denial of the appeal by Mr. Naticchioni of the Planning Commission's approval of Site Development Permit Applications SDP-D-15-03 and SDP- 22-03 for Meek's Lumber. Jim Underwood, representing Mr. Naticchioni, advised that his client was seeking what he believed to be a more balanced approach to the project. He summarized the issues presented in Mr. N aticchioni' s appeal, asserting that Meek's is located in a Heavy-Commercial District 10/7/2003 206 "HC" and truss manufacturing is a questionable permitted use, the previous permit (UP-15- 91) <1qnditions 40 I).ot confol11} to,permit amendment~ of1996, and Meek's Lumb~r should be, required to obtain a u~e pe~it and not two site development permits because it will be a manufacturing f~cility of 20,000 square feet. ' t Council Member Pohlmeyer count~red that the site development permit documents indicate a 5,000 square foot enclos~d tru,ss manufacturing building and two additional storage buildings of 14,000 ~nd 7,000 ~quare feet. He pointed o~t that a 20,000 square foot manufacturing building is not under discussiol).. Mr. Underwood stated that Mr. Naticchioni's primary concern is the discharge of ~torm water onto his property at two locations. He advised that Mr. Naticchioni provided the City with soil sample test results from Lawrence and Associates which indicate ~'evated levels of oil, grease, arsenic at}d c~o~iuw. contaminants. Although these contaminants are rated non-hazardous, Mr. Underwood qontetlded th~t they are present at the storm water discharge point which qirects Meek'sni~off 01').to his property. I Mr. Underwood also questiol).ed the 1991 installat~on of an underground drainage system and asserted that a permit for install~ti<?1). ofthe sys!em was never located, although City staff reported th;1t instalJation was performed in accordan~e with standards it} place at that time. He further alleged th~t at some point after 19?1, the swale portion ofthe discharge system was used as a conduit to discharge water through Mr. Naticchioni's property to the Caltrans right-of-way. In urging the City Council to uphold the appeal, Mr. pl).derwood pointed out that Mr. Naticchiol).i requested noise mitigation and ll;U1dscaping to shield the current residence located on his property from exce~sive noise and provide visual aesthetic$. PoiI).~ing to Mr. Naticchioni' s intent, to remove the residt;nce, install a driveway and develop a two-story motel on the property, Council Member Mathena questioned the purpose for . . . . landscaping amenities in an area destined to become a driveway. , . Mike Ashby, representing Meek's Lumber, stated that Meek's has agreed to all the Conditions of Approval set forth in the Site Develqpment Permits which should mitigate most of the appellant's concerns. In add~rssing the allegations that Meek's is releasing contaminants onto:Mr. Naticchioni's PFoperty, ~r. Ashby explained that Meek's retained SHN ConsuJting Engineers and Geologists to further eV;1luate the t~st results provided by Lawrence and Associates. SHN determined that the materials found in the soil are non- . . - , . ..' '. '., . ~ .'. . hazardous and do not exceed any govern~ent action level ,and, in most cases, naturally occur in Shasta County soils.. He s~essed that the site developme~t applications do not represent any new truss manufacturing activity but an expansion of existing truss manufacturing, all of which will now be enclosed. He urged the City Council to deny the appeal and make all necessary findings. I Jim Wamemuende, Re~ding resident, urged the City Council to require beautification requirements for the Meek's project. Mayor Cibula determined that no other individual wished to address this matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: ,Made by Council Member Pohl~eyer, seconded by Council Member Mathena, making necyssary CEQA and Site Development Permit findings and denying the appeal of I Site Developtnent Permit Applications SDP-D-15-03 and SDP-22-03. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. \ At the hour of 8:47 p.m., Mayor Cibu.la declared the meeting in recess. At the hour of 9:00 p.m., Mayor Cibula reconvened the meeting. PUBLIC HEARING - Appeal filed by William Kopper of Use Permit UP':1-03 issued to Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. #2537, and Enviro~mental Mitigated Negative Declaration (L-010-390) The hour of7 :00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Cibula opened the public hearing regarding the appeal filed by William Kopper ofthe Planning Commission approval of Use Permit UP-1- 10/7/2003 207 03 by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. #2537, and adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration located at 1505/1515 Dana Drive. The following documents are on file in the Office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing Affidavit of Mailing - Notice of Public Hearing I City Clerk Strohmayer advised that additional correspondence was received from Steefel, Levitt, and Weiss, representing Wal-Mart Stores urging denial ofthe appeal by Mr. Kopper. City Attorney Fuller introduced Independent Counsel Steven Meyers, of Meyers, Nave, Riback, Silver, and Wilson Law Firm, who is representing the City in this matter due to his expertise in Standards of Review for Council's consideration of the issue. Mr. Fuller advised the City Council that it will not be sitting in its usual capacity as a legislative body, but as a quasi-judicial body, and he related that there are two issues to consider: 1) The appropriateness of a Negative Declaration for the project, and 2) whether or not a Conditional Use Permit should have been granted for the project. I Mr. Meyers outlined the legalities to be considered during presentation of the issues. With regard to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) issue, the City Council must determine whether the project might have a significant effect on the environment. A significant effect defined as a substantial adverse change or potentially substantial adverse change in the physical conditions within the area affected by the project including such conditions as land, water, noise, flora, fauna, etc. With regard to economic consequences, the law states that economic or social change occasioned by a particular land use application shall not, by itself, be considered a significant effect on the environment, although it may be considered if it will produce a direct physical change on the environment, such as a blighting influence on the urban environment. Effects on an individual person are not relevant, but the effect on persons in general is relevant. Mr. Meyers advised that Council must consider if there is substantial evidence in the record to support a conclusion and that a fair argument can be made that there is a significant effect or may be a significant effect on the environment. He clarified that substantial evidence is not public controversy, unsupported opinion, conj ecture, argument, speculation, erroneous facts, but rather a determination on the whole record and the substantial record which consists of facts, reasonable assumptions predicated on facts, expert opinions supported by facts, or inferences from those facts. He explained that if Council concludes, based on substantial evidence in the record, that a fair argument can be made that a significant or potentially significant adverse effect on the environment exists, then it should require that an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) be prepared. If the converse is found, then Council may uphold the decision of the Planning Commission and opinion of staff that aN egative Declaration is appropriate. He stressed that the consideration is not whether any argument can be made, but rather if a "fair" argument can be made based on standards of substantial evidence. I Mr. Meyers explained that a permitted use is a use allowed in particular land use zone as a matter of right. He continued that a conditional use is a use that would be permitted but for the fact that there are conditions that have to be imposed on that use in order to make it compatible with the neighborhood. The purpose of a conditional use permit is to ensure that conditions are imposed on a use that will make it consistent with the general welfare ofthe community and compatible with the neighborhood to ensure that it does not have a harmful affect on persons, property, or businesses. He pointed out that Council must consider if, in its opinion and judging facts as presented, the use and conditions imposed on the use will in fact be injurious to the general welfare of persons or businesses in neighborhood. He noted that the appellant has the burden of presenting the information demonstrating that the Planning Commission and staff were wrong in their conclusions. He added that certain findings must be made regarding approval or denial of the appeal and dependent upon Council's decision, the vote for findings will be a "vote of intention" with the detailed findings returned at a later meeting. Development Director Hamilton presented an overview of the Report to City Council dated September 16,2003, incorporated herein by reference, explaining that Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (Wal-Mart) proposes to add approximately 93,000 square feet to their existing store located at 1505/1515 Dana Drive which will include 23,000 square feet of outdoor storage space and 60,000 square feet for a new grocery facility. He recalled that the Planning Commission 10/7/2003 208 i , adopted the Negativepeclap~ltion aIld approved Use Peffilit Application l)P-I-03, to allow expansion at its meeting of July~, 2003. He pointed out thlit because an active use permit on the property allowing approximately 60,000 square feet of additional retail space without additional review cllrrently exists, Wal-Mart will only be adding an additional 32,000 square feet ofunreviewed area. . , Mr. Hamilton stated that the Planning Commission, during its consideration of the matter, determin~d that all requirernepts were properly administered. However, William Kopper filed an appeal ~n behalf of six. R,ed~ing re~~4ents regarding the approval ofth~ Use Permit and adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaratiol1 requesting that an EIR be prepared ;;tlleging that t~e WaJ-M~rt expansion may cause a significant impact on t4e env~ronment with regard to traffic, air quality, noise, and physical changes due to economic impacts creating blight. I Mr. Hamilton pointed out that 63 Conditions of Approval are attached to Wal-Mart's expansion project designed to 1TI.itig~te ~he issues oftraffjc, noise, and air quality and bring these impacts to a le&s significant level. . Mr. Hamiltpn advised that the appellant maintaips t~at a fair argume~t had been presented that physical changes cau~ed by t~e econornic impact of an additional grocery store in this area would create blight. M;r. Hamilton advised that the appellant alleges that the expansion is contrary to the goals of the City which ,a,re to bring in new busin,esses, !ncrease wages and eliminate duplication of existing businesses. Mr. Hamilton adde4, however, that the City also has a goal of expand~ng regional commercial sales opportunities, and allowing businesses to expand and a variety of ()ther relevant policies. Mr. Hamilton related .that the l;1ppeHant also statect that the maximulll buildtng size limit, as defined in the Regional Commercial Desi~~tion, has b~en exceeded by the Wal-Mart project. However, the Region~l Comtpercial Designation identifies regional uses as 100,000 to 200,000 ~quare foot individual buildings" mall sites of 500,000 to 1 million square feet, 'I and also prQvides that actual stal\dards shall be 4eteFlllined by the Zoning .ordinance. The City's new Zoning .ordinance sta~es the~e is no limit~tion on Regional Commercial building size, making the project consistent with the General Plan. . Mr. Hamilton cOl1t,nuedthat the appel~ant asserted that th,e C~ty: 1) i~correct1y describ~d the project in the Mitigated N egaJ~ve DyclaratioIl; 2) the, amollnt oftime was incorrectly notice~ as required by CEQA, and 3) tp.e n:otic~ was incorrect and not consistent with State Planning Law. Mr. Hamilton countered that the City performed all requirements set forth for the project in acc<:>rdance with Stat~ and Federal law. Mr. Hamilton advised that Council must make required CEQA findings based on the record: 1) The City Jlas determiped that there is J!o substantial evidence th~t the project will have a significant affect on the environme~t, and 2) tl1at the Mitigated Negative Declaration, with supporting documentation, reflects the. independent judgment and analysis of the City. Ip a~diti()n, the following four use permit findings are required: 1) the project and use wm not be detrimental to the health, safety, and general welfa,re of persol1s residing or working in th,e neighborhood, 2) th..e proposeq use will not be injt}rious or detrirne~tal to the general welfare of the. City, 3) the propo~ed use is cOl1sistent with the goals and policies established in the General Plan and ZOJ;1in~ Coqe, and A) the propos~d use and project design are consistent with tl1e Oesign Criteria e~tablished by resolution ofth,.e City Council in accordance with the I Zoning .ordinanc~. Mr. Hamilton reiter~ted that the Planning Commission made all finding and approved the project. I ~ i ,. Mr.! Hamilton reco~e~ded that the City Council !J1ake findings for denial of the ~ppeal presented by William Kopper and th.at the City Council uphold the Planning Commission'.s adoption of the Mitigated Negative Declaration and approval of Use Permit UP-I-03, Wal- Mart Stores. ' Mr. Hamilton explained that much of the information the City Council has and will rec.eive may seem to be in conflict d'!le to various perspectives. For in~tance, the Super Market Analysis presented by Wal-Mart is statistically based, whi~e the Super Market Analysis presented by the appellant is broader in scope and predicated on a different approach. The 10/7/2003 209 appellant's survey also provides property surveys and other items all of which make it difficult to make a comparison of the two. He pointed out that staff found substantial informational errors in the analysis provided by the appellant, such as the City's population identified at a 1999 level, and assumptions based on a service area that only included the City of Redding, not the surrounding region. I William Kopper, representing the appellants, asserted there are no independent studies to validate the studies submitted by W aI-Mart consultants or the appellants. He contended that the Wal-Mart expansion will bring nothing of value to the community and noted that other areas have experienced blight after Wal-Mart Super Stores were developed in their community causing other businesses to fail. According to Mr. Kopper, Wal-Mart has the ability to offer reduced prices to consumers based on reduced labor and benefit costs. He alleged that the Wal-Mart expansion violates the General Plan requirement that average wages of a worker in the community be increased. He asked that a neutral economic study be performed in order to determine the effects of the Wal-Mart expansion and believed this study should be performed through the EIR process. Mr. Kopper maintained that noise levels and air quality impacts will increase with the expansion ofWal-Mart noting that the truck wells would be within 60 feet of an existing residential duplex property line, that the noise analysis provided by Wal-Mart was based on inadequate equipment and traffic impacts were not adequately addressed. He further asserted that the impact during the work week would be more substantial than the report indicates and diesel exhaust from idling trucks will adversely impact the air quality for persons in the residential area. Mr. Kopper maintained that adequate numbers of grocery stores exist in the City and urged that the appeal be upheld and that and EIR be prepared in order to fairly determine the merit of the project. I In response to Mayor Cibula, Mr. Hamilton explained that staff reviewed all information submitted by the applicant and the appellant and a determination of its validity is based on comparisons with other like-project analyses and typical practice. He confirmed that the City has not conducted an independent analysis of the impact to the local grocery industry. Council Member Stegall asked if an economic study could be ordered without performing a complex EIR. Independent Counsel Meyers responded that an economic analysis is required under CEQA if there was a demonstrated physical effect as a result of economic consequences of this project. However, there is nothing in the Use Permit application or Standards that would suggest that an economic impact could be considered in determining whether the general welfare of the public or the welfare of the neighborhood would be adversely affected by this application. He advised that additional studies could be requested, but it must be questioned whether those studies would be relevant to the findings that Council is required to make under the Zoning Ordinance and CEQA. Unless it can be demonstrated to Council's satisfaction that there is a direct and demonstrable physical consequence to the economic impacts of the retailer and the practices of the retailer, Mr. Meyers said it would be difficult to say that the economic analysis would have relevancy. Vice Mayor Pohlmeyer pointed out that of the 63 Conditions of Approval for the Use Permit, there are 22 relevant to environmental impacts. I William Dunning, representing Wal-Mart Stores, advised that the consultants preparing the various reports for W aI-Mart are independent consultants who have previously worked in the area and/or with municipalities. He related that as previously stated, the original Wal-Mart Use Permit would allow 60,000 square feet of retail expansion without further analysis. However, in the interest of the community, Wal-Mart did not request a permit for 32,000 square feet, but submitted the proposal in its entirely for a 92,000 square foot expansion. He believed that with the Conditions of Approval, the project has been mitigated to provide less than significant impact levels. Richard Rodkin, with acoustical consultants Illingworth and Rodkin, asserted that the noise data taken by Mr. Kopper's consultant provides the same results and supports the results of the noise analysis prepared by Wal-Mart. He stated that through adoption of the mitigation and monitoring measures suggested by their report and adopted through the Conditions of Approval, the noise impacts will be less than significant. He pointed out that an acoustical 10/7/2003 210 analysis will be performed during the design phase of the expansion to ensure that adequate controls willpe included in the design. W e~ Ervin, Applied Development Economics, advised that 95% of their client base are municipalities and they assist t~em in economic development needs. Be related that a quanti t~ti ve analysis of the retail market in Redding was performed (without input from Wal- mart) with particular focus on the effect of the Wal-Mart expansion into the grocery market. The methodology included ca.lcl,llating expected sales, actual sales of existing Redding supermarkets, then splitting the sales figures between the existipg 12 markets which provided . an estimate of the impact ofWal-Mart on existing stores. The findings indicate that sales in Redding are beyond household demand apd are almost twice (1.8) the a1J!.ount expected of I a household in an average area. He noted that .Redding is a major regional retail draw and encompasses parts of several counties. Total sales expected in a year for all grocery stores in the area are approximately $138 million with actual documented sales from $170 million to $232 million per year. Taking into consideration uneven impacts on stores closest to Wal- Mart, all stores should have above average sales even after the Wal-Mart expansion. He believed that Redding has not ~xceeded its capacity for grocery stores, pointing out that other grocery ret3;ilers such as Safeway and WinCo have upgraded and expanded. Peter Martin, Senior Traffic Engineer for Wilbur Smith Associates, and Ivan Hooper, Traffic Engineer, advised that the Institute of Transportation Engineer's Trip Generation Handbook 6th Edition was used to detern1~ne trip generations fo~ the project. The Handbook contains pooled information frqm all over the country and provides estimated trip generations for various land uses. They also explained how the trip generation total was derived for the proposed expanded Wal-Mart, which provided an 11 % increase in trip generations over the present peak conditions in that area on a Saturday. Judy Davidoff, with Steefel, Levitt, and Weiss representing the applicant, explained that the project proposes .a limited expansion of an existing store. She reiterated that the reports were prepared by independent experts in a thorough analysis submitted to City staff who did an independent review and determined that there was sub~tantial evidence to support a negative declaration which was later support~d by the Planning Commission. She urged the City I Council to support t4e decision of the Planning Commission and deny the appeal. Mike Ogle, truck driver for Wal-Mart Stores, stated t4at he delivers to the Redding W aI-Mart store and other WaJ-Mart Super Stores. He noted that it takes a total of 15 minutes for a truck to arrive, l,lnhook the trailer, hook up a new ~ailer and leave the facility. He added that he has delivered to many Wal-Mart Super Centers and observed that chain grocery outlets in close proximity to the Super Genters continue to compete and do quite well. Dan Mullens, owner ~fSunset Market, Ray Prigmore, Manager of Food Max grocery outlet, Jim WaU, Vice President of Real Estate for Save Mart Supermarkets, Debra Atlas, representing the National Federation ofIndependent Businesses, Ray Thomas, representing the United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Darin Ferguson, Redding resident, Robert Belgeri, representing the Service Employees International Union, and Larry Rumery, Redding resident, urged approval of the appeal on the basis of economic blight citing the following: Even one store out of business represents many families withol,lt income in the community; many stores in the area are not doing as well as the reports indicate, many small businesses with smaller profit margins are unable to compete in the type of environment created by Wal-Mart Stores; grocery stores anchor many small strip malls and if the grocery store fails, the mall will eventually fail; and Wal-Mart provides unfair competition by utilizing lower wages and fewer employee bel).efits in order to provide lower prices to consumers. They maintained that an independent EIR would be a valuable tool and asked I that the City keep its vision of new businesses with upscale wages. , - Amy Hill, Western Regional Dir~ctor of Community Relations for Wal-Mart Stores, rebutted the comments that Wal-Mart does not pay competitive wages and benefits. She maintained that throughout the nation, other stores successfully compete with Wal-Mart Stores. Mayor Cibula determined that no other individual wished to address this matter and closed the public hearing. 101712003 211 In response to Council Member Stegall, Mr. Meyers explained that the environmental impact report process entails hiring a consultant to prepare an initial draft environmental impact report which would then be reviewed by City staff, published and circulated for comment. Based on any comments received, changes may be made to the document and a final draft EIR is prepared and adopted. He added that the time line varies from three to nine months and the cost varies from $30,000 to $100,000 depending upon the complexity of the project. I Council Member Stegall expressed concern that none of the documentation or testimony presented can convincingly predict the impact a Wal-Mart Super Store will have on other grocery stores and she believed additional studies should be done before such a decision can be made. Council Members Pohlmeyer, Mathena, and Kight stated that consumers deserve the right to compare and shop for the best bargains available which a more competitive market provides. They emphasized that private industry must be provided with equal opportunity to expand and grow to serve the demand and pointed out that Wal-Mart already exist in the community. They also pointed out that the 63 Conditions of Approval associated with the Use Permit adequately address the issues raised by the appellant and others. Mayor Cibula supported granting the appeal stating he believed requisite findings cannot be made to support staff's recommendation. I MOTION: Made by Council Member Mathena, seconded by Council Member Pohlmeyer, making necessary CEQA and Use Permit findings to deny the appeal filed by William Kopper, upholding the decision of the Planning Commission to adopt the environmental Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring Program, approving Use Permit Application UP-I-03, subject to the conditions of approval, by Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. #2537, located at 1505/1515 Dana Drive, and directing staff to prepare separate and more detailed findings to be formalized and adopted at a future meeting. The Vote: AYES: Council Members - Kight, Mathena, and Pohlmeyer NOES: Council Members - Stegall and Cibula ABSTAIN: Council Members - None ABSENT: Council Members - None At the hour of 11 : 17 p.m., Mayor Cibula declared the meeting in recess. At the hour of 11 :20 p.m., Mayor Cibula reconvened the meeting. PUBLIC HEARING ORDINANCE - Amending Water and Wastewater Utility Rates (W-030-400 & W-020-590) The hour of7:00 p.m. having arrived, Mayor Cibula opened the public hearing to consider increasing the monthly utility rates for Water and Wastewater Utilities. The following documents are on file in the Office of the City Clerk: Affidavit of Publication - Notice of Public Hearing City Clerk Strohmayer advised that no protests were received. I Assistant City Manager Perry recalled that the Underground Infrastructure Development Impact Fee Ad Hoc Committee (Committee) recommended increases to the utility rates to provide the Water Utility with 25% of the cost of growth-related capital projects, and fund the first phase of water improvements for the Stillwater Industrial Park. The proposed increase for the Wastewater Utility would fund facility needs for maintenance of an aging system with some parts more than 100 years old, reduce inflow and infiltration of ground and surface water into the sewer system, provide maintenance of the system, provide capital replacement costs at treatment plants (particularly the Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant) and provide sewer improvements for the first phase of Stillwater Industrial Park. The rates are set on a five year schedule. Mr. Perry recommended approval of the monthly utility fee increases for the Water and Wastewater Utilities and that the ordinance be offered for first reading by title only. 10/7/2003 212 Mayor Cibula determined that no one present wished to address this matter and closed the public hearing. MOTION: Made by Council Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Kight approving recommended increases to Water and Wastewater Utility monthly rates in an attempt to adequately fund anticipated operating and maintenance costs for the City's water and wastewater systems. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. Council Member Pohlmeyer offered Ordinance No. 2317 for first reading, an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Redding amending Redding Municipal Code (RMC) Chapter 14.16, Sewers by increasing certain charges. I MOTION: Made by Council Member Pohlmeyer, seconded by Council Member Kight, that the full reading of Ordinance No. 2317 be waived, the City Attorney be instructed to read the full title, and the City Clerk be authorized to publish a summary of the Ordinance. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. UPDATE ON MAJOR PROJECTS - Sports Complex (A-050-080 & P-050-600-200) Assistant City Manager Perry advised that installation of sod at the Sports Complex should be complete by November and pointed out that the parking lot curbs and sidewalks are complete and work continues in all areas. Council Member Kight expressed concern that the Sports Complex opening will be delayed. Mr. Perry advised that the official turnover date to Big League Dreams will be in February 2004. No action was required on this informational item. LETTER TO THE OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES - Redding Medical Center (A-050-060) City Manager Warren advised that a group of doctors from Redding Medical Center have requested that the City Council demonstrate its support for Redding Medical Center by submitting a letter to the Office of Inspector General (OIG), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, outlining the adverse effects to the health and welfare o~ the community should Redding Medical Center lose Medicare reimbursement for services and be forced to close. The draft letter emphasizes the need for two hospitals in the community and the far- reaching economic and social consequences that the loss of jobs, adequate health care and resources would have on the entire North State. I Dr. Bob Hansen, Dr. David Johnson, Roger George, Mike Hurley, and David Steward urged the City Council to submit a letter to the OIG asking that if action is taken against Redding Medical Center that it do so in a way that provides for continuity of hospital services to the community. Council Member Stegall recommended that the draft letter include the phrase "to allow for continuity and provision of hospital services" and delete "so that Tenet Health Care can identify another health care organization" which she believed inappropriate for the City Council to suggest. MOTION: Made by Council Member Stegall, seconded by Council Member Pohlmeyer, I authorizing the Mayor to send a letter with the aforementioned modifications to Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services concerning the Redding Medical Center. The Vote: Unanimous Ayes. PUBLIC COMMENT (W-01O-450) Doug Ginno and Michael Michalak expressed concern regarding noxious odors emanating from the Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant for more than two years. Assistant City Manager Perry acknowledge the odor problem at the Clear Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant for a variety of reasons. He related that a problem with the digester at the 10/7/2003 213 plant should be resolved through a recently-awarded bid for its replacement, and there is also a problem with sludge removal from the settling ponds which is currently under review. He added that the increase in rates will remedy the third problem which is to bring the entire plant up-to-date. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, at the hour of 11 :45 p.m., Mayor Cibula declared the meeting adjourned. I APPROVED ATTEST: c~ '~~J I I 10/7/2003