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HomeMy WebLinkAbout121400 PTS Minutes MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION DECEMBER 14, 2000 CALL TO ORDER The City of Temecula Public/Traffic Safety Commission convened in a regular meeting at 6:03 P.M., on Thursday, December 14, 2000, in the City Council Chambers of Temecula City Hall, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. FLAG SALUTE The audience was led in the Flag salute by Commissioner Edwards. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Edwards, Katan, Lanier, and Chairman Connedon. Absent: Commissioner Coe. Also Present: Assistant City Manager O'Grady, Director of Public Works Hughes, Senior Engineer Moghadam, Associate Engineer Gonzalez, Signal Technician Brown, Battalion Chief Ritchey, Police Sergeant DiMaggio, Councilmember Pratt, Administrative Secretary Pyle, and Minute Clerk Hansen. PUBLIC COMMENTS No comments. COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Minutes of September 28, 2000 RECOMMENDATION: 1.1 Approve the Minutes of September 28, 2000 MOTION: Commissioner Lanier moved to approve the minutes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Edwards and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. COMMISSION BUSINESS 2. Consideration of Different Colored Crosswalks for Enhanced Visibility RECOMMENDATION: 2.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission review and provide input regarding the use of different colored crosswalks for enhanced visibility. Senior Engineer Moghadam presented the staff report (of record), noting that staffs investigation revealed that non-standard colored crosswalks have not been installed at any location in the United States, advising that there have been no standards established for modifying the crosswalk colored striping; relayed that white crosswalks are utilized for standard crossings, while yellow crosswalks are utilized for school crossings; noted that in the City of Temecula accidents in crosswalks were not a significant negative issue; and relayed the potential liability issues associated with this implementation. Chairman Connerton commented on the State standards with respect to the colored striping at the crosswalks, concurring with staff that there should be no deviation from this standard. MOTION: Commissioner Edwards moved to maintain the existing standards with respect to the color of crosswalks in the City of Temecula. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Lanier and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. For informational purposes, Chairman Connerton noted that he had attended the Traffic Legislation Update meeting on December 13, 2000 which was held in the City of Ontario, noting that there were 245 changes to the existing Vehicle Code; provided the Public/Traffic Safety Commission with copies of the "Digest of Traffic Legislation 2000," relaying that he had additionally obtained a videotape associated with the modifications; and noted that one of the revisions was that there would be funding available for cities that had traffic congestion problems. 3. Feasibility of Traffic Siqnal Maintenance by City Forces RECOMMENDATION: 3.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission receive and file a report regarding the feasibility of traffic signal maintenance by City forces and provide comments to staff. Via overheads, Signal Technician Brown provided an overview of the City's Traffic Signal Maintenance Program, specifying the signal systems that are currently maintained; relayed information regarding a potential future traffic monitoring system; provided an overview of the process of the maintenance program, noting that initially a complaint is made, that the complaint is verified and repaired, if possible, that if the repair cannot be completed that the County Dispatch is called, a technician is contacted to complete the repair, the work is then verified, and ultimately the citizen who made the original complaint is contacted; relayed the advantages of utilizing Riverside County for these maintenance repairs, noting the availability of equipment and staff; for Chairman Connerton, advised that the standard response time for the County was, as follows: during daytime hours the response was approximately 1-2 hours, and during after-hours the response time could be from 6-8 hours; provided additional information regarding rolling black-outs and unscheduled power outages, noting that currently the City is installing protection on the interconnect lines in order to restrict the loss of controllers; relayed various disadvantages of utilizing Riverside County for these maintenance repairs, noting the lengthy response times, the level of service, and the lack of traffic control; provided an overview of the benefits of the City conducting maintenance repairs, noting the improved level of service and response times, the preventative maintenance, the improved traffic control procedures, and the ability to identify and correct maintenance impacts prior to receiving citizen complaints; for Chairman Connerton, relayed that if there was a repair necessary on Rancho California or Ynez Roads, that the Police Department would be notified to direct traffic; relayed an overview of the process of repair maintenance at the Caltrans signals; noted various disadvantages associated with utilizing City forces for signal maintenance issues, noting the fiscal impacts, the necessary building space, and the staffing requirements; provided an overview of the expectations of addressing the signal maintenance issues with in-house City staff; relayed two options for addressing maintenance issues with City staff, listed as follows: 1) that City staff would address all daytime service calls, and that a Traffic Signal Maintenance Contractor would address after-hours calls and extraordinary repairs, or 2) that City staff would address all service calls around the clock. Commissioner Edwards commented on her request for this type of maintenance program in December of 1998. In response, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that the associated traffic impacts and the City's recent emphasis to address negative traffic issues was the impetus for developing this proactive approach to maintaining the signals at this time; and advised that Signal Technician Brown's efforts have been extremely effective. For Commissioner Lanier, Signal Technician Brown relayed that there are currently four maintenance contractors in the Southern California market. In response to Commissioner Lanier's comments, Director of Public Works Hughes acknowledged that if the Signal Maintenance was conducted by City staff for one hundred percent (100%) of the work, that this would be a large burden, specifically due to the after-hours calls, advising that additional staff members would be necessary; and noted that with the utilization of a Traffic Signal Maintenance Contractor for the after- hours calls, the level of service would still be greater than if the City continued to rely on the County for this service. For Commissioner Katan, Signal Technician Brown relayed that on April 1,2001 the City of Palm Desert would be implementing a program utilizing a City maintenance staff, providing additional information regarding the likelihood of neighboring cities potentially following the same process as the City of Palm Desert. Chairman Connerton relayed a recent injury incident in the City of Riverside involving a maintenance truck being operated by solely one individual, noting that the injury could have been prevented if there was an additional staff member on the ground at the time of the incJdent; and recommended that when Signal Technician Brown utilizes the City's R:lb-afficrninutes~121400 3 new maintenance truck (which would be available in December), that there be an additional maintenance staff member utilized for safety purposes. In response, Signal Technician Brown relayed that the City truck will not be solely utilized for signal repairs, advising that at this time, workers are required to wear a full body harness; and relayed that most maintenance contractors utilized solely one employee in the truck. Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that there were few experienced signal technicians, noting staff's diligent efforts for the past 2-3 years to recruit Mr. Bill Brown to work for the City; and provided additional information regarding the time involved in identifying signal problems before Mr. Brown was on staff. Chairman Connerton recommended that since Signal Technician Brown was on staff at this time that an alternate technician be trained under his supervision. Director of Public Works Hughes noted the persistence of Senior Engineer Moghadam's efforts to recruit Mr. Brown to this position at the City. With respect to a potential cost savings with the City maintaining the signals, Director of Public Works Hughes relayed that at this point staff was not anticipating a cost savings in taking over the County's service, noting that there would likely be an increase in costs; and advised that it was staff's goal to ensure that the service level that is expected would be provided. Chairman Connerton relayed the numerous benefits to the citizens with the implementation of this program, noting the preventative maintenance program, and the expedient response time; and advised that with the ability to maintain the traffic signals the traffic would be greatly improved in comparison to the timeliness of the repairs when relying on the County. Councilmember Pratt relayed that there was no doubt that there has been a definite improvement in the operation of the signals with Signal Technician Brown on staff. It was the consensus of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission to recommend to the City Council that there be continued funding of these types of programs in order to provide the tools for the Public Works Department to continue to be proactive with respect to addressing traffic impacts. 4. Evaluation of Multi-Way Stop Controls on Via Cordoba RECOMMENDATION: 4.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommend that the City Council establish a multi-way stop control on Via Cordoba at Loma Linda Road, and remove the multi-way stop controls on Via Cordoba at Via Salito/Corte Bravo and Corte Zorita. Senior Engineer Moghadam presented the staff report (per agenda material), highlighting the various implementations the City had utilized in efforts to reduce the vehicle speed and volumes on Via Cordoba which had been ineffective; relayed that on May 9, 2000, a Subcommittee of the City Council directed staff to install three temporary stop signs on Via Cordoba, to review the effectiveness of the installations after a three- R:~trafficminutes~121400 4 month period of time, and to subsequently report back to the City Council; noted that the stop signs have been in place for approximately six months (providing the rationale for the six-month period, noting the school schedule and weather factors), relaying the data reflected in the agenda material conducted in this area prior to the installation and then the two studies conducted after the installation; advised that the speeds were not significantly effected with the exception of one location (i.e., Loma Linda Road), while volumes were reduced by approximately twelve percent (12%), noting that the increased enforcement could have contributed to the reduction in volumes; provided an overview of the comments that staff has received regarding the stop signs (per the staff report) which were few, and reflected both positive and negative remarks; advised that eighty-five percent (85%) of the vehicles were travelling between 30-33.5 MPH; and relayed the negative impacts associated with installing unwarranted stop signs (i.e., drivers not stopping), noting that, overall, the stop signs were ineffective at slowing speeds with the exception of the Loma Linda Road location. Commissioner Lanier queried whether there would be negative impacts with the removal of these temporary stop signs. In response, Senior Engineer Moghadam relayed that this was a slight concern of staff. Director of Public Works Hughes provided an overview of the staff comments with the Councilmembers when it was determined to temporarily install these particular stop signs, noting that there would most likely not be a significant negative impact with the removal of these stop signs due to the residents' awareness of the various implementations that have been temporarily installed on Via Cordoba in an efforts to address their concerns. Per discussions with the Via Cordoba residents, Commissioner Edwards commented on the perception by various individuals that the stop signs were effective; and queried the manner in which it could be clarified that the survey data was accurate (which revealed the ineffectiveness of the stop signs to control speed). In response, Senior Engineer Moghadam advised that like other components of the City (i.e., the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, the City Council), staff had the best interests of the residents in mind; clarified that the City hires an independent consultant to conduct the studies, providing additional information regarding the analysis; advised that the data was accurate, noting that the perception of the speed of a vehicle driving by can be affected by various elements (i.e., a noisy car will appear to be travelling faster); noted that the data revealed that eighty-five (85%) of the drivers in this area were travelling at approximately 30 MPH which was a reasonable speed; and advised that to address the fifteen percent (15%) of drivers not abiding by the limits, enforcement would be the most effective tool. At this time the Public/Traffic Safety Commission heard public comments. Mr. Charles Hankley, 31745 Via Cordoba, opined that the stop sign installations had been effective, noting that discussions with a Police Officer in this area revealed that his opinion was that the stop signs were reducing the number of citations issued; relayed that on Loma Linda Road there was a park which was visited by numerous children; advised that recent enforcement was not frequent or consistent enough to make a significant positive impact; noted that a new school was being constructed in this area; via overheads of the traffic data (per agenda material), relayed that fifty percent (50%) of the drivers were driving above the posted speed, and that fifteen percent (15%) of those R:\trafticminutes~121400 5 drivers were travelling at speeds in excess of 33.5 MPH, recommending that Officers be stationed in this area at the times the study reflected the speeding was occurring. Ms. Janet Dixon, 31860 Via Cordoba, referencing the staff overview, relayed that in her opinion a twelve percent (12%1) reduction in volumes was significant, advising that the stop sign installations contributed to this reduction; clarified that the residents that were opposed to the stop sign installations were requesting alternative solutions; opined that the stop signs were additionally slowing the high speeding vehicles; and concurred with Mr. Hankley that it was her understanding from the City Council meeting that the increased enforcement would be more dramatic. Councilmember Pratt relayed that perceptions were more power[ul than statistics; and opined that reducing stop signs was not an effective manner in calming traffic in the City of Temecula. For informational purposes, Chairman Connerton clarified that Officer Hughes (the neighborhood enforcement Officer) was out for recovery from a minor motorcycle accident for approximately three weeks; advised that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission has forwarded a recommendation to the City Council to add additional Police Officers to the Police Department, providing additional information regarding the effectiveness of the neighborhood enforcement, noting the positive feedback from the residents; and relayed the importance of the Police Officer varying the times of enforcement in a neighborhood. The Commission relayed closing comments, as follows: Commissioner Edwards reiterated the numerous comments from the residents revealing their perception that the stop signs were effective; noted that the elimination of the soccer practice at Kent Hindergardt Memorial Park could have contributed to the reduction in volumes; relayed the importance of relying on the survey data to effectively address negative impacts; and noted the liability incurred with installing unwarranted stop signs. Commissioner Lanier noted that he had visited this location, relaying that while other factors could have contributed, it appeared to him that traffic was calmer with the stop signs; reiterated the dangers associated with installing unwarranted stop signs (i.e., a false sense of security), advising that numerous drivers did not stop at these stop signs. Commissioner Katan noted that since the residents perceived the stop signs as an effective calming tool, reducing speeds in their neighborhood, he would be reluctant to remove the stop signs, advising that the Calle Medusa residential area had permanent stop signs. Chairman Connerton noted that he had visited this area at various times to observe the traffic; relayed that drivers were stopping at the center-located stop sign~ while rolling through the alternate stop signs; noted that he was concerned with liability issues; recommended that if the stop signs were removed, that there be increased enforcement until driving patterns adjusted to the removal; noted the past recommendations that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission has forwarded to the City Council (i.e., the request for additional Police Officers in conjunction with the request for funding for a community outreach program), advising that if approved, these implementations would improve this R:~trafficminutes\121400 6 particular residential area; with respect to these particular stop signs, advised that there was no need to remove the stop signs at this time, suggesting that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission review the matter in 60-90 days, advising that at a future point alternative traffic calming implementations would be more likely to be in place. Director of Public Works Hughes clarified that with the installation of these particular stop signs the City Council has directed staff to bring back to the City Council the data from the studies conducted in this area, noting that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's comments could be forwarded with sta~s recommendation to the City Council. Chairman Connerton relayed that it could be the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's recommendation that the City Council consider postponing the removal of the stop signs for a specified period of time, until alternate calming tools had been approved and implemented. In response to Director of Public Works Hughes's comments, Commissioner Edwards relayed that she would be less reluctant to remove the stop signs if there were alternate traffic calming programs implemented (i.e., the Drive 25, Keep Kids Afive Program). Directgr of Public Works Hughes clarified that staff would forward to the City Council any recommendation that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission desired to relay. Chairman Connerton relayed that driving patterns would change now that daylight savings time has ended, noting concern with this changes increasing the possibility of an accident if the stop signs were removed at this time. In response, Director of Public Works Hughes opined that the daylight savings time change would most likely not be a significant issue, noting that the City had methods of making the drivers aware that there were no stop signs. MOTION: Commissioner Edwards moved to recommend to the City Council that the stop signs would remain for an additional six-month demonstration period in order for alternative traffic calming programs to be investigated. Chairman Connerton seconded the motion. (Ultimately this motion was amended; see page 8.) Commissioner Lanier recommended reducing the six-month period to a three-month period if alternative-calming programs had been investigated (i.e., the Drive 25, Keep Kids Alive Program). Chairman Connerton suggested reducing the time period to a four-month period in order to allow adequate time for the programs to be approved; reviewed the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's past recommendations to the City Council regarding SLAP, the Stop Light Abuse Program, clarifying that the City Council's agenda has been so full that this recommendation has not yet been considered. Commissioner Katan recommended modifying the motion to indicate that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission was recommending that the stop signs remain in place until there was a viable alternative. In response, Chairman Connerton advised that the City Council might prefer a specified time period for the postponement. Commissioner Katan noted that along with the recommendation, it could be relayed that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission has made previous recommendations (i.e., the R:~trafficmir~utes~121400 7 request for additional Police Officers to enhance the neighborhood enforcement program, and the request for funding for a community outreach program); and reiterated that it was his opinion that the recommendation should be that the stop signs remain until a viable alternative was in place. Additional discussion ensued regarding the time period for recommending reconsideration of the removal of the stop signs. Chairman Connerton relayed that the City Council could be updated with respect to the progress the Public/Traffic Safety Commission was making regarding viable traffic calming programs. MOTION: Commissioner Edwards moved to recommend to the City Council that the stop signs remain in place until such time as there is an alternative viable solution. Chairman Connerton seconded the motion and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. At 7:45 P.M. a short recess was taken, and the meeting reconvened at 7:51 P.M. 5. Review Councilmember Councilman Pratt's Emerqenc¥ Transport Plan RECOMMENDATION: 5.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission review and provide comments. At this time there was a video presentation of Councilman Pratt's comments at the November 28, 2000 City Council meeting whereupon staff was directed to bring the Emergency Traffic Circulation Plan (ETCP) to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission for review and recommendation. It was noted that during the presentation Councilman Pratt read into the record a letter he had written, dated October 10, 2000 (per agenda material), clarifying his concerns regarding the serious traffic impacts in the City of Temecula and his recommended solutions. Via overheads, Assistant Manager O'Grady presented the Emergency Traffic Circulation Plan (ETCP), relaying that 19 points were identified by Councilman Pratt which constituted the plan, advising that staff has conducted a preliminary analysis of those points; noted that Councilman Pratt had two overriding goals, as follows: 1) to improve traffic safety, and 2) to relieve traffic congestion, advising that his aim was to encourage the discussion of solutions leading to those two goals; and relayed that the 19 points were inclusive of the cornerstone issues of traffic engineering, traffic enforcement, and education, in addition to the proposed concepts for public transportation, planning, building, and development requirements, as well as, funding and implementation issues. Assistant Manager O'Grady addressed the data included in the 19 points of the ETCP, noting that various issues were currently being addressed via existing programs within the City of Temecula; highlighted the current utilization of radar speed trailers, the existing and future formation of HOAs, the Crime-Fee Multi-Housing Program, carpooling issues, future provision of a public transit program along the 1-15, a smart shuttle program for school transportation which was in the discussion phase, citizen access to the Council staff (i.e., community newsletter, City Council hotline, e-mail), the traffic review component of environmental studies, affordable housing issues, first-time homebuyer's program, relocation assistance for income-qualified individuals, established safe walking routes to the schools, installation of traffic signage, increased Police enforcement, traffic education via the schools, communication awareness with the public via newsletters, press releases, televised City Council meetings, and the City's website. Assistant Manager O'Grady noted that while there were numerous concepts included in Councilman Pratt's Plan which were underway and that staff could wholeheartedly support for future implementation, that there were various concepts which staff could not recommend, as follows: installing additional traffic signage and the recommendation to add additional safety language on signage, noting that a plethora of signage becomes ineffective, and that via community education programs, safety issues could be better addressed; increased traffic fines, advising that these fines were determined by the State; elimination of on-street parking between 2:00 A.M. to 6:00 A.M., noting that this could impose a hardship in certain areas; restricting individuals under the age of 18 driving, noting that this issue was not within the City's jurisdiction, reiterating the efforts regarding the smart shuttle program (for the transport of children to school); two-car garages for new homes, advising that this was an issue of residential choice; and additional tax on new cars, noting that this recommendation would require a Proposition 218 election, relaying, additionally, that based on discussions with auto dealers in the City of Temecula it was their opinion that this additional tax would place them at a disadvantage competitively with alternate cities. Chairman Connerton relayed that it was his understanding that Councilman Pratt was charging the Commission with the responsibility of developing an outreach education program, overseeing the implementation of the program, and subsequently reporting back to the City Council on a regular basis, noting Councilman Pratt's recommendation to involve Ms. Alice Sullivan in this program. Assistant Manager O'Grady clarified that it was his purpose to inform the Public/Traffic Safety Commission as to what programs currently exist, and the programs staff is in the process of developing; advised that the City Council had budgetary responsibility, noting that the majority of Councilman Pratt's recommendations would have a budget impact, relaying that those items would need to be approved by the City Council; noted that the City Council desired to have the Public/Traffic Safety Commission review these 19 points, noting that the staff report was for the purpose of providing information to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, and staff's position on the recommendations; and clarified that it was the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's charge to consider the data and make recommendations to the City Council. Councilman Pratt commented on the diligent efforts staff has made regarding the data presented; further commented on the negative traffic impacts associated with the approval of new developments, noting the desire to address these issues in an attempt to calm traffic; and provided additional information regarding his recommended solutions. Chairman Connerton noted the benefits of involving the citizens in this traffic solution plan, advising that the development of an outreach program at the Commission level would provide a forum for community members to provide comments. Chairman Connerton relayed the past recommendation to the City Council to fund the development of a community outreach program, advising that per data from a recently R:\tcafficminutes1121400 9 attended seminar that there was funding available for components of this type of a program; and provided examples of the types of transportation elements that would be addressed in the community outreach program (i.e., carpooling, school bus transport). For Commissioner Edwards, Assistant Manager O'Grady clarified staff's analysis of the 19 points, advising that the City Council relayed a desire for the Public/Traffic Safety Commission's recommendations. In response to Chairman Connerton, Councilman Pratt confirmed that 49 days would most likely not be a sufficient period of time for a response to the ETCP. For Commissioner Katan, Councilman Pratt noted that for a traffic plan such as his recommended plan to be successful it would be necessary for the residents and the merchants to participate. Chairman Connerton recommended that a Subcommitee be formed with staff, two Public/Traffic Safety Commissioners, representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, representatives from the School District, from the Police Department, and from various churches; advised that input could be gathered from these numerous entities, and be subsequently presented to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission in order for the Commission to consider this input in its recommendation to the City Council; and provided additional information regarding the plethora of traffic data available for no cost that could be distributed to community members. Commissioner Lanier advised that if the Public/Traffic Safety Commission formed Subcommittees in the area of the Commissioner's expertise (i.e., Commissioner Katan: School District) that the collective efforts would be beneficial. Chairman Connerton concurred that if there was a concentration on certain tasks more could be accomplished in a shorter period of time. Per previous discussions with Councilman Pratt, Commissioner Edwards relayed the importance of public education; sited the example of the successful traffic solutions implemented during the Los Angeles Olympics which involved the help of businesses, schools, and residents; recommended implementing a Share the Ride Month Program in the City of Temecula enlisting the aid of the Chamber of Commerce, the EDC, the Manufacturer's Council, the School District, the non-profit organizations, the mall, the hospitals, and City staff, providing additional information regarding implementation; and noted that a Share-the-Ride website could be developed. Chairman Connerton and Commissioner Edwards further discussed the role of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission potentially overseeing these various programs and Subcommittees if that was the City Council's desire. Chairman Connerton noted that it would be beneficial if the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommendations could be relayed to the City Council in a more expeditious manner. For the recommendation to the City Council, Commissioner Edwards recommended that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission focus on education, public transportation, and enforcement at this time. Commissioner Lanier recommended that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommend that there be a Subcommittee formed inclusive of two Public/Traffic Safety Commissioners to further investigate the areas of focus (i.e., education, public transportation, and enforcement), and at a subsequent Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting that various additional Subcommittees be formed to gather specific data. Assistant O'Grady relayed that it was the Council's desire to hear the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommendation at the January 9, 2001 City Council meeting, relaying that it would be appropriate for a Public/Traffic Safety Commissioner to be appointed to report to the City Council the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommendation. MOTION: Commissioner Lanier moved to appoint Chairman Connerton to report to the City Council on January 9, 2001 that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission would be forming a Subcommittee inclusive of Chairman Connerton and Commissioner Edwards in order to assess programs for traffic education, public transportation, and enforcement; and recommended that input be gained from Ms. Alice Sullivan and alternate representatives of other organizations prior to the January 9th meeting in order for Chairman Connerton to be able to present their concepts. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Edwards and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. Chairman Connerton queried who would be the staff member to contact, noting the need to coordinate the various entities (i.e., Chamber of Commerce, School District) to schedule a meeting. For Chairman Connerton, Assistant Manager O'Grady relayed that initially he would be the staff member involved with this particular plan. 6. Consideration of "Keep Kids Ahve, Drive'25" Si,ClnS RECOMMENDATION: 6.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommend that the City Council establish an active partnership with the" Keep Kids Alive Drive 25" campaign and include the program as a State 1 traffic calming tool in the City's Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. Senior Engineer Moghadam provided a brief overview of the Keep Kids Alive, Drive 25 Program (per the staff report), noting that the purpose of this program was to enhance the safety in the residential areas and the awareness of the drivers that the speed limit was 25 MPH; and relayed that the City of Oceanside had this program in place, providing additional information. For Commissioner Edwards, Associate Engineer Gonzales provided specific information regarding the City of Oceanside's provision of the signs for neighborhood residents for a period of three weeks, noting that the signage was relocated throughout the City; relayed that in the City of Oceanside, City staff installed the signs which were City-owned; and for Chairman Connerton, provided additional information regarding the placement of the signs. In response to Commissioner Edwards, Director of Public Works Hughes provided additional information regarding the staff time that would be expended if the signs were solely make available, noting that this would be a feasible plan; and advised that if City staff was to install the signage it would become a major undertaking. Additional discussion ensued regarding the number of signs that would be made available initially. Associate Engineer Gonzales advised that this tool (i.e., the signage denoting Drive 25, Keep Kids Alive) would be provided as part of the Neighborhood Traffic Calming Program. For Commissioner Katan, Associate Engineer Gonzales confirmed that this program would be part of the Stage I Traffic Calming Program. Associate Engineer Gonzales noted the rationale for the City of Oceanside owning the signs. For Chairman Connerton, Associate Engineer Gonzales advised that if this program was approved by the City Council, the Public/Traffic Safety Commission could approve the implementation of the program in specific residential areas. Commissioner Edwards, echoed by Chairman Connerton, recommended that when this program was presented to the City Council that there be sample signs for the City Council to review, and that the two types of signs be represented (i.e., inclusive of one with reflective capacity). In response to Chairman Connerton, Associate Engineer Gonzales relayed that he would investigate for the source, which provided videotape regarding this program. For Commissioner Edwards, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that since he brought the concept of this program to the Public/Traffic Safety Commission eight to ten months ago that he was in support of the program, noting the benefits with respect to the residents' perception of improvement. Chairman Connerton commented on the Police training with respect to detecting speed without the use of the radar gun, further commenting on the residents' perception of speeds traveled in their neighborhoods. For Commissioner Katan, Associate Engineer Gonzales relayed that the associated costs for this program would be presented to the City Council. Chairman Connerton recommended that if the Neighborhood Enforcement Officer noticed that the signs were misplaced that he addresses the matter. MOTION: Commissioner Edwards moved to approve staff's recommendation. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. Commissioner Edwards noted that this program has been suggested for implementation in the North General Kearny area. R:Xb'afficminutes~121400 12 Election of Public/Traffic Safety Commission Chairperson and Vice Chairperson RECOMMENDATION: 7.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission appoints Commissioners to serve as Chairperson and Vice Chairperson to preside until the end of the 2001 calendar year. MOTION: After additional Commission discussion, Commissioner Lanier moved to appoint Commissioner Edwards to serve as Chairwoman of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Katan and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. In response to Commissioner Lanier, Commissioner Katan relayed his preference to not serve as Vice Chairman of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission at this particular time. MOTION: Commissioner Katan moved to appoint Commissioner Lanier to serve as Vice Chairman of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Edwards and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioner Coe who was absent. TRAFFIC ENGINEER'S REPORT Via overheads, Director of Public Works Hughes presented the new colored signage developed for City construction projects. In response, Commissioner Edwards, and Chairman Connerton applauded staff for the great design of the signage. POLICE CHIEF'S REPORT After recovering from his minor motorcycle accident, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that Officer Hughes has returned to the Via Cordoba area for increased enforcement, noting that 12 out of 16 days were spent in the Via Cordoba area, and solely three citations were issued which were for stop sign violations; and provided additional information regarding the importance of Officer Hughes relocating each day in a different location in order for motorists to be unaware of his exact location on a regular basis. During the Holiday Season, Police Sergeant DiMaggio relayed that DUI Enforcement would be increased, as well as, increased enforcement at the mall site. FIRE CHIEF'S REPORT No comments. R:\[rafticminutes1121400 13 COMMISSION REPORTS Commissioner Katan commended staff and the Police Department for the great work at the Electric Light Parade, noting that the traffic control was spectacular. Per a citizen's request, Commissioner Katan relayed their concern regarding the intersection of Margarita Road and Stone Wood Road; and queried whether this intersection warranted a stop sign and/or a traffic signal. Senior Engineer Moghadam advised that mid-year of 2001 this signal was scheduled to be installed. Commissioner Lanier recommended that in the construction update published in the newspaper, that there be a traffic and safety tip included in this news release (i.e., traffic: data revealing the number of citations issued for a certain violations during a specific month, safety: the importance of keeping Christmas trees well- watered.) Commissioner Lanier commended the Recreation Department staff, noting that the day after the Electric Light Parade the streets were free of any debris from the large crowd, which had been present, the night before. With respect to the Temeku Hills Drive area, Commissioner Edwards relayed a resident's concern with respect to speeds and volumes in this area. Police Sergeant DiMaggio noted that the Police Department has monitored this area, noting that there were no violations issued. Chairman Connerton relayed to staff and the Commission that it had been a pleasure to serve as Chairman of the Public/Traffic Safety Commission, congratulating Commissioner Edwards on her appointment as Chairwoman. Chairman Connerton reiterated his prevision of the Digest of Traffic Legislation 2000 to the Commission, siting specific revisions for discussion. ADJOURNMENT At 10:00 P.M. Chairman Connerton formally adjourned this meeting to Thursday, January 11, 2001 at 6:00 P.M., in the City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. Ch~rmah'" DCa"r r ~'[I ~c'~C o n n e r t o n ~,c[min~s~-r~' S~cr,~c~ry ,~nita Pyle R:\t~afficminutes1121400 14