HomeMy WebLinkAbout042401 CC MinutesMINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE TEMECULA CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 24, 2001
The City Council convened in Closed Session at 5:00 P.M. and convened in a regular meeting
at 7:00 P.M., on Tuesday, April 24, 2001, in the City Council Chambers of Temecula City Hall,
43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California.
Present:
Councilmembers: Naggar, Pratt, Roberts, Stone, Comerchero
Absent:
PRELUDE MUSIC
Councilmember: None '
The prelude music was provided by Margaret Bird.
INVOCATION
The invocation was given by Pastor Koger of Hope Lutheran.
ALLEGIANCE
The salute to the Flag was led by Councilman Pratt.
PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS
Relay For Life Presentation and Proclamation
Mr. Ron McClelland informed the City Council and the viewing audience of the First Annual
Relay for Life on June 2 -3, 2001 at Murrieta Valley High School; highlighted the history of
Relay for Life; and commented on the organization's goal to raise $100,000, noting that raised
monies will be contributed toward research, patient services, and education of cancer.
On behalf of the City, Mayor Comerchero presented to Mr. McClelland a City proclamation in
honor of this event.
2001 National Crime Victims' Riqhts Week Proclamation
A proclamation presented by Mayor Comerchero was accepted by Ms. Karen Chizo who briefly
referenced available services to those in need.
Help Make Great Strides to Cure Cystic Fibrosis Proclamation
Mayor Comerchero presented the proclamation to Ms. Shannan Burk, Great Strides
Chairperson, who apprised the public of an upcoming event on Sunday, April 29, 2001, at 8:00
A.M., at the Temecula Sports Park in an effort to raise $50,000 toward cystic fibrosis and
thanked the City Council for its support.
Presentation by Juvenile Diabetes Foundation
Ms. Mary Jaquish, representing the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, apprised the public of an
upcoming fundraiser walk on Sunday, May 6, 2001, at 11:30 A.M., at the Sports Park. Ms.
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Jaquish introduced Ms. Megan Christine Kingastian who shared her story of what it is like to be
10 years old and live with diabetes.
Councilman Stone informed the public that he will'provide his services at the fundraiser walk
and take free blood sugar tests.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
A. Having lived in Temecula for the past nine years, Mr. Albert Ball, 31836 Corte Mendoza,
praised the City Council on its efforts specifically to those associated with cultural opportunities
and thanked the City Council for the opportunity to utilize the Duck Pond Park for the Idyllwild
International Chamber Orchestra on Sunday, May 13, 2001, for Mother's Day.
B. Mr. Joe Grammatico and Mr. Bob Ingertson, representing the American Legion, advised
that the Boys' State Program, sponsored by the American Legion, has selected two boys from
Temecula Valley High School who will join 35 other boys from Riverside County to proceed to
the Boys' Nation in Sacramento. At this time, Mr. Grammatico introduced Mr. Patrick Davis who
ranked 26th of 633 in grade point average and Mr. Cole Konasaka who ranked 1st of 633 in
grade point average.
In response to Councilman Stone, Mr. Ingertson advised that associated costs with
sending these boys to Sacramento are defrayed by way of City support and fundraisers. Mr.
Stone requested that the consideration of allocating $1,000, in honor of each boy, to the
American Legion be agendized for the next City Council meeting.
B. Ms. Rebecca Weersing, 41775 Yorba Avenue, representing the Temecula Valley Rose
Society, invited the City Council and the public to the Rose Haven for the First Bloom Party,
Sunday, April 28, 2001, between 1:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M.
C. Ms. Martha Minkler, P.O. Box 954, thanked the City Council for the City street banners
advertising the Arts in the Country Festival (May 5 - June 17, 2001 ).
D. Ms. Maryann Edwards apprised the city Council and the public of an upcoming
fundraiser to assist the Lopshire Family with defraying their son's (Nathan) medical expenses,
advising that the fundraiser will be on Wednesday, April 25, 2001, 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., at
Stadium Pizza in Redhawk.
E. Mr. Harold Provin, 44750 Villa Del Sol, thanked Mayor Comerchero, Mayor Pro Tern
Roberts, and Councilman Stone and City staff members for their hard work, noting that the City
of Temecula is one of the best cities to live in the country and stating that such past efforts were
accomplished without any political mudslinging.
CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
A. Councilman Pratt informed the City Councilmembers that he had attended the Student of
the Month event on Monday, April 23, 2001.
B. Mayor Pro Tern Roberts advised that he had testified for the MetroLink to the Assembly
Committee on Transportation, in Sacramento, with regard to AB 1396 (rail facilities), noting that
the bill did pass the Assembly Committee and will proceed to Appropriations.
Mr. Roberts noted that he has put together a meeting on Thursday, April 26, 2001, to
discuss the partnership development of a natural gas fueling station in the City.
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C. in response to Councilman Stone, Police Chief Domenoe commented on the success of
the Stop Light Abuse Program (SLAP), noting that 76 citations have been issued since the
implementation of the program, as well as, 15 good driver awards. Mr. Stone also commended
the Police Department on the Enforce Responsible Alcohol Consumption in Temecula (ERACIT)
program, noting that last weekend two drunk drivers were eliminated from City roads as a result
of this program.
To further encourage the elimination of graffiti throughout the City, Councilman Stone
reminded the public of the reward issued by the City with the successful prosecution of anyone
who graffitied within the City.
D. Mayor Comerchero informed the public that he will be in Sacramento on Wednesday,
April 25, 2001, in order to testify before the Local Government Committee of the Assembly with
regard to a bill pertaining to property taxes.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1 Standard Ordinance and Resolution Adoption Procedure
RECOMMENDATION:
1.1 Motion to waive the reading of the text of all ordinances and resolutions included in the
agenda.
2 Minutes
RECOMMENDATION:
2.1 Approve the minutes of January 23, 2001.
3 Resolution Approvinq List of Demands
RECOMMENDATION:
3.1 Adopt a resolution entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 01-25
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA ALLOWING CERTAIN CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
AS SET FORTH IN EXHIBIT A
4 Request for Leqislative Nominations for Grant Fundinq for the Children's Museum and the
Community Theater
RECOMMENDATION:
4.1 Adopt a resolution entitled:
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RESOLUTION NO. 01-26
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA REQUESTING THE NOMINATION OF THE
TEMECULA CHILDREN'S MUSEUM PROJECT BY OUR STATE
LEGISLATOR FOR AN URBAN RECREATION AND
CULTURAL CENTERS GRANT THROUGH THE SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, AND
COASTAL PROTECTION BOND ACT OF 2000
4.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 01-27
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA REQUESTING THE NOMINATION OF THE
TEMECULA COMMUNITY THEATER PROJECT BY OUR
STATE LEGISLATOR FOR AN URBAN RECREATION AND
CULTURAL CENTERS GRANT THROUGH THE SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, AND
COASTAL PROTECTION BOND ACT OF 2000
Councilman Stone abstained with regard to this matter.
(This item was considered under separate discussion; see pages 6-7.)
5 Approval of Funds for Plan Review Services with Van Dorpe Chou and Associates
RECOMMENDATION:
5.1 Approve an expenditure in an amount not to exceed $35,000 for Plan Check
Services with Van Dorpe Chou Associates.
Approval of the Plans and Specifications and authorization to solicit Construction Bids for
the Pavement Manaqement System - Citywide - FY2000-2001 - Project No. PW00-30
RECOMMENDATION:
6.1
Approve the Construction Plans and Specifications and authorize the Department of
Public Works to solicit construction bids for the Pavement Management System -
Citywide - FY2000-2001 - Project No. PW00-30.
Approval of the Plans and Specifications and authorization to solicit Construction Bids for
Citywide Asphalt Concrete Repairs for FY2000-2001 - Project No. PW01-01
RECOMMENDATION:
7.1
Approve the Construction Plans and Specifications and authorize the Department of
Public Works to solicit construction bids for Citywide asphalt concrete repairs for
FY2000-2001 - Project No. PW01-01.
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8 Reimbursement Aqreement between Rancho California Water District and the City of
Temecula for Marqarita Road Wideninq from Plo Pico Road to Dartolo - Project No.
PW99-01
RECOMMENDATION:
8.1 Approve the Reimbursement Agreemetit between Rancho California Water District
(RCWD) and the City of Temecula for the Margarita Road Widening from Plo Pico
Road to Dartolo - Project No. PW99-01.
9 Award of Construction Contract for the Pavement Manaqement System - Proiect No. PW99-
17 -Jefferson Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation
RECOMMENDATION:
9.1
Award a contract for the Pavement Management System - Project No. PW99-17 -
Jefferson Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation - to R.J. Noble Company for
$603,425.00 and authorize the City Manager to execute the contract;
9.2 Authorize the City Manager to approve change orders not to exceed the
contingency amount of $60,342.50 which is equal to 10% of the contract amount.
10 Meanderinq Sidewalk alonq North General Kearny Road for Christ the Vine Lutheran
Church Proiect (LD00-210GR) - (located south of North General Kearny Road
approximately 325 feet east of the Marqarita Road and North General Kearny Road
centerline intersection
RECOMMENDATION:
10.1 Accept a meandering sidewalk easement along North General Kearny Road for
public use only.
11 Consideration of sponsorship request for the Temecula Valley International Film Festival
RECOMMENDATION:
11.1 Consider the sponsorship request of $30,000 for the 2001 Temecula Valley
International Film & Music Festival.
(This item was considered under separatediscussion; see page 7.)
12 1-15/Rancho California Road Interchanqe Improvements (Project No. PW95-12) Southern
California Gas Company (SCG) Work Authorization Aqreement to Relocate an existinq 6"
Hiqh Pressure Gas Main
RECOMMENDATION:
12.1 Authorize payment to the Southern California Gas Company (SCG) for construction
fees in the amount of $27,409.40.
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MOTION: Councilman Stone moved to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1-3 and 5-10 and
12 (Item Nos. 4 and 11 considered under separate discussion). The motion was seconded by
Mayor Pro Tern Roberts and voice voted reflected approval with the exception of Councilman
Stone who abstained with regard to Item No. 4.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS CONSIDERED UNDER SEPARATE DISCUSSION
4 Request for Leqislative Nominations for Grant Fundinq for the Children's Museum and the
Community Theater
RECOMMENDATION:
4.1 Adopt a resolution entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 01-26
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA REQUESTING THE NOMINATION OF THE
TEMECULA CHILDREN'S MUSEUM PROJECT BY OUR STATE
LEGISLATOR FOR AN URBAN RECREATION AND
CULTURAL CENTERS GRANT THROUGH THE SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, AND
COASTAL PROTECTION BOND ACT OF 2000
4.2 Adopt a resolution entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 01-27
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
TEMECULA REQUESTING THE NOMINATION OF THE
TEMECULA COMMUNITY THEATER PROJECT BY OUR
STATE LEGISLATOR FOR AN URBAN RECREATION AND
CULTURAL CENTERS GRANT THROUGH THE SAFE
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, CLEAN WATER, CLEAN AIR, AND
COASTAL PROTECTION BOND ACT OF 2000
Councilman Stone abstained with regard to this matter.
Community Services Director Parker presented the staff report (as per agenda material).
Ms. Beverly Stephenson, 27740 Jefferson Avenue, thanked Mayor Comerchero, City Manager
Nelson, and Building Official Elmo for their assistance with a recent staging problem for an
upcoming production, noting that such a problem would not have arisen if the City of Temecula
would have its own theater.
MOTION: Councilman Naggar moved to approve staff recommendation. The motion was
seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Roberts and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of
Councilman Stone who abstained.
11 Consideration of sponsorship request for the Temecula Vallev International Film Festival
RECOMMENDATION:
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11.1 Consider the sponsorship request of $30,000 for the 2001 Temecula Valley
International Film & Music Festival.
Councilman Naggar apprised the public that this year's Festival will include a music component.
Mayor Comerchero noted that although a new component has been added to the Festival, the
sponsorship request remained the same as last year.
MOTION: Councilman Naggar moved to approve staff recommendation. The motion was
seconded by Councilman Stone and voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
At 7:57 P.M., Mayor Comerchero called a recess and then convened as the Community
Services District, the Redevelopment Agency, and~the Temecula Public Financing Authority and
reconvened the City Council meeting at 9:07 P.M. The Redevelopment Agency and the
Temecula Public Financing Authority meetings were recessed until after the discussion of City
Council Business Item No. 15 (Roripaugh Ranch Specific Plan Processing Schedule). At 10:59
P.M., Mayor Comerchero called a short recess and reconvened the Redevelopment Agency
and Temecula Public Financing Authority meetings. After adjourning those meetings, Mayor
Comerchero reconvened the City Council meeting at 11:11 P.M.
COUNCIL BUSINESS
13 Discussion of 1999 Draft Traffic Study
(Requested by Councilman Naggar)
RECOMMENDATION:
13.1 Provide direction to staff concerning the Draft 1999 Traffic Study.
Deputy City Manager Thornhill reviewed the staff report (of record), noting the following:
That the City Council in March of 1998 had approved a contract with Wilbur Smith and
Associates to update the Circulation Element of the General Plan in order to address
concerns of development in the County areas, commenting on the County's deviation
from the Southwest Area Plan Land Use designations;
· That in March of 1998, the County had not yet initiated the Riverside County Integrated
Project;
That in March of 2000, the City Council had adopted the City's Growth Management
Action Plan and at which time, the Council directed staff to undertake a complete and
comprehensive update of the City's General Plan, including the Circulation Element;
That Cotton Bridges Associates will address all components of the City's General Plan,
including the Circulation Element, and, as well, will evaluate the land uses and traffic
impacts associated with the City of Murrieta and the County's Riverside County
Integrated Project (RCIP).
In response to Councilman Stone, Deputy City Manager Thornhill advised that the City's overall
densities have been reduced by 8 to 10%; that the traffic levels at various intersections in the
1999 traffic study were determined by the higher density levels; that the 1999 Traffic Study
included the Wolf Creek project at 2,600 to 2,700 units, noting that the actual total will be 2,000
or less units; that the Acacia project (Pechanga Tribe) has been transferred into trust land (140
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units); that the Querry property will be included in the trust purchased by the Pechanga Tribe
(120 acres); that Harveston was considered at 2,600 to 2,700 units, noting that the actual total
will be around 2,000 units or less; and that the Campos Verdes project (multi-family) has been
reduced by 800 units. Because the County has not yet completed its RClP and in light of the
City's adoption of its Growth Management Action, at which time, the City Council directed staff
to update its General Plan, including the Circulation Element, Mr. Thornhill recommended the
completion of a new traffic study to reflect the revised City Land Use Plan as well as the project
land uses in the unincorporated areas through the RClP.
For Councilman Naggar, Deputy City Manager Thornhill noted that the differences between the
1993 and the 1999 traffic study are not significant, advising that the 1999 traffic study was
utilized for the purposes of updating the Circulation Element and that for those new projects,
which require referencing the General Plan, the 1993 traffic study would be utilized as reflected
in the Circulation Element of the General Plan.
Public Works Director Hughes stated, for Councilman Naggar, that in the engineering analysis
of projects, the Public Works Department will reference the 1999 traffic study primarily for the
purpose of double checking assumptions and that the 1999 traffic study has been utilized with
reference to undesirable levels of service as it relates to County projects.
Deputy City Manager Thornhill advised that the 1999 traffic study has been referenced because
it took into account changes occurring in the County area such as Vail Lake Specific Plan.
Although not having been involved in the process with the 1999 traffic study, Public Works
Director Hughes stated that this study would be somewhat more conservative as it relates to trip
generation factors than the 1993 traffic study.
For Councilman Naggar, Mr. Thornhill readdressed the reduction of density and its relation to
the Circulation Element, noting that the major impacts on the City's infrastructure problems are
County driven.
Councilman Stone noted that the City's Capital Improvement Program is a living document
which may be amended at any time based on the City's needs. In light of the City's available
resources, infrastructure may be upgraded in order to accommodate those needs.
Clarifying his goal, Councilman Naggar noted that it would be his intent to have the most
accurate and updated study adopted into the City's General Plan. Because the General Plan
indicates that the Circulation Element should be updated every three years, Mr. Naggar noted
that by not updating this Element every three years, the City will not derive the benefits from
accurate counts on cumulative traffic impacts. Because it has been noted that the 1999 traffic
study was not accurate, Mr. Naggar requested that the traffic engineer who completed this study
either defend the study or that the City be reimbursed $100,000. Mr. Naggar expressed
concern with upcoming projects utilizing the 1993 traffic study when the 1999 traffic study is
available.
MOTION: Councilman Naggar moved to direct the Planning Commission to evaluate the 1999
traffic study and its adoption into the General Plan and to forward a recommendation to the City
Council. The motion was seconded by Councilman Pratt. (This motion ultimately failed; see
below.)
Although staff is of the opinion that the 1999 traffic study is not as accurate as the 1993 traffic
study, Councilman Stone noted that the developer of a major project such as Wolf Creek would
be required to provide a traffic study separate from the City's studies; and that developers are
held accountable for providing infrastructure prior to the issuance of building permits.
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Commenting on the importance of knowing the cumulative traffic impacts, Mr. Stone spoke in
support of completing a new traffic study to ensure current and updated information be utilized.
Although the 1993 traffic study does not reflect the 8ensity reduction of 8 to 10% which in terms
of traffic is significant, Mayor Comerchero noted that as a result, counts being used are actually
inflated. Versus duplicating efforts by validating the 1999 traffic study, Mr. Comerchero
expressed concerns with the 1999 traffic study as it relates to trip generation rates and counts
and, therefore, supported the completion of a new study which should correlate with the City's
updated General Plan as well as the RClP.
Councilman Pratt relayed his support of the Planning Commission reviewing the 1999 traffic
study and its adoption with the updated General Plan.
At this time, voice vote of the above-mentioned motion reflected denial of the motion as
follows:
AYES: Naggar, Pratt
NOES:
Comerchero, Roberts, Stone
ABSENT: None.
14 Proposed Eastern Urban Limit Line
RECOMMENDATION:
14.1 Adopt a map titled Proposed Eastern Urban Limit Line.
In light of the County's approval of the Morgan Hill project, Mayor Comerchero advised that staff
has requested that this matter be continued off calendar.
MOTION: Councilman Stone moved to continue this matter off calendar. The motion was
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Roberts and voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
15 Roripauqh Ranch Specific Plan Processinq Schedule
RECOMMENDATION:
15.1 Provide direction to staff.
Deputy City Manager Thornhill provided an overview of the staff report (as per written material),
noting that the developer has requested that the consideration of the Roripaugh Specific Plan
and the Environmental Impact Report be expedited; that the assigned City Council
subcommittee (Mayor Comerchero and Mayor Pro Tern Roberts) and staff have met with the
applicant; that the subcommittee had agreed to expedite the project as much as possible but
clarified that a set City Council hearing date could not be confirmed due to the involvement of
the Planning Commission and its hearings; and that he as well would prefer that the project be
located in Temecula to ensure land use control, noting that the City would impose more
stringent conditions than the County would impose; and that staff is attempting to meet the
deadlines.
Mr. Wesley Hylen, 31566 Railroad Canyon Road, Canyon Lake, consultant representing the
developer of Roripaugh Ranch, advised that a new draft EIR and Specific Plan for the 1,721-unit
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project has been completed, which is currently under review by staff; that the project description
and land use plan has been reviewed by staff and the City Council subcommittee; and that
since 1994, the project density has been reduced from 2,665 units to 1,721 units. Addressing
the project, Mr. Hylen noted that the applicant has agreed to the following:
· Full mitigation of school facility requirements
· Energy-efficient homes and buildings, including a 60-day moratorium every 12 months
for issuance of building permits after a blackout caused by a Stage 3 Power Alert called
by the State
· Study to establish traffic baseline data to determine traffic impacts of the project with
respect to affected intersections
· Moratorium on building permits if any of the affected intersections were to remain below
a Level of Service D.
Advising that the current traffic study for this project is based on a 1998 model, completed by
Wilbur Smith and Associates, Mr. Hylen noted that in order to complete and make Butterfield
Stage Road operable by early 2003, the applicant would require a City Council approval by
August 2001.
Reviewing the time schedule (as per overheads), Councilman Stone reiterated his desire to
have this project in the City of Temecula because of local authority over land uses and the
extension of Butterfield Stage Road and Murrieta Hot Springs Road.
In response to Councilman Stone, Mr. Hylen advised that in an effort to reduce the time
schedule in order to achieve City Council approval by August, the applicant would be requesting
the following of staff:
· Second review of the EIR could be reduced to 14 days
· Third staff review to be completed within a week
· Final staff check reduced to 7 days
· Public review period reduced from 45 days to 30 days
For Councilman Naggar, Mr. Hylen clarified that an expedited time schedule is being requested
in order for the applicant to meet a project option which expires September 30, 2001, and in
order to commence construction on the Butterfield Stage Road extension in March of 2002 (right
after the rainy season) to ensure completion by March 2003. Mr. Hylen noted that if by
expediting this process the City were to incur any additional expenses, the applicant would be
willing to pay for those expenses.
At 10:00 P.M., the following motion was offered:
MOTION: Councilman Stone, seconded by Councilman Naggar, moved that the remaining
agenda items be considered this evening. Voice vote of the motion reflected unanimous
approval.
To further expedite the process, Councilman Stone suggested the scheduling of Planning
Commission workshops.
Advising that he has no interest in this property, Mr. Dan Stephenson, 27740 Jefferson Avenue,
relayed his support of the project.
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Although you may request the Planning Commission to conduct special meetings with regard to
this project, City Attorney Thorson, for Councilman Naggar, advised that the City Council may
not compel the Commission to meet.
in light of the Planning Department's loss of two planners, Mayor Pro Tern Roberts relayed his
support of the project but commented on the impact, as a result of fast tracking this project, will
have on staff as well as the Commission, noting that other projects such as Harveston are on
schedule as well.
Because of the opportunity to complete the Buttedield Stage Road extension to Murrieta Hot
Springs Road, Councilman Pratt, as wetl as Councilman Naggar, relayed their concurrence with
Councilman Stone's recommendation to expedite this project to ensure its approval within the
City.
In response to Councilman Naggar's concern with impacts on other projects as a result of
expediting this project, City Attorney Thorson advised that the City must adhere to time frames
within which to process projects and that priorities have been set with regard to other projects
and clarified that the City Council cannot commit to an approval date for this project.
Commenting on the City's opportunity to approve this project within the City, Councilman Stone
stressed to staff that this project must take a higher priority. Deputy City Manager Thornhill
ensured Mr. Stone that staff will explore all options in expediting this project.
Councilman Naggar requested that project status reports be presented at every City Council
meeting and that possibly a subcommittee be created.
Deputy City Manager Thornhill noted that the reduction of meetings/special meetings will as well
expedite this project.
City Manager Nelson confirmed that staff will create an aggressive schedule to expedite this
project in conjunction with balancing other City priorities and requested that if the developer
were not to meet any of the designated time frames, the matter would be agendized for City
Council review.
MOTION: Mayor Comerchero moved to direct staff to expedite this project and to provide
project status reports at every City Council meeting. The motion was seconded by Mayor Pro
Tern Roberts and voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
16 Selection of City Council representative to serve on Desiqn Team for the Wolf Creek Fire
RECOMMENDATION:
16.1 Select one member to serve on the Design Team for the Wolf Creek Fire Station.
MOTION: Mayor Comerchero moved to appoint Councilman Stone to serve on the Design
Team for the Wolf Creek Fire Station. The motion was seconded by Councilman Naggar and
voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
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17 Authorization to file letter of protest with the California Public Utilities Commission re.qardin.q
the issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity for the Valley Rainbow
Interconnect Project (Application Number :A.01-03-036}
RECOMMENDATION:
17.1
Authorize the City Attorney to file a letter of protest with the California Public Utilities
Commission regarding the issuance of a Certificate of Public Convenience and
Necessity for the Valley Rainbow Interconnect Project as proposed by the San
Diego Gas and Electric Company.
Assistant City Manager O'Grady provided the staff .report (as per agenda material), reviewing
elements of the proposal, advising that the Electrical Needs Committee (Mayor Comerchero and
Councilman Naggar) concurs with the proposed recommendation, and referencing City
concerns, including the following: visual, economic, public facilities, and noise. For Councilman
Stone, Mr. O'Grady advised that the longest stretch to underground these lines is 2/3 of a mile.
Although not opposing the electrical need, Mr. Faddoul Baida, 34860 Calle Arnaz, relayed his
opposition to the routing of the proposed Valley Rainbow interconnect project, commenting on
radiation and other possible health problems as a result of this project; requested the scheduling
of additional public meetings; submitted to City Clerk Jones a four-page letter with regard to this
project; and commented on the importance of an EIR.
For Councilman Naggar, Assistant City Manager O'Grady advised that San Diego Gas and
Electric Company has prepared a proponent's environmental assessment which will be utilized
by the California Public Utilities Commission during the preparation of the environmental report,
which should be completed within the next 12 to 18 months.
Referencing the various routes, Ms. Loma Basinger, 40125 Scanlon Road, noted that a~l routes
are between Rainbow and Romoland; that none of the routes are outside of Southwest
Riverside County; that she is not against reliable energy; and that the proposed lines are for
want versus need. In closing, Ms. Basinger encouraged the City to be a part of this process
and supported staff's recommendation.
Ms. Barbara Wilder, 28560 Via Santa Rosa, spoke in support of staff's recommendation;
commented on the adverse impacts this project would have on the City; encouraged the City
and its residents to be a part of this process; and requested that future meetings/hearings with
regard to this matter be held in Temecula. With regard to a flier that was sent out and reflected
incorrect comments made by Mayor Comerchero, Ms. Wilder clarified that although the
organization name of Save Southwest Riverside County (SSRC) was used on this flier, no such
authority was granted and that SSRC had no participation in those comments.
Mr. Wayne Hall, 42131 Agena Street, addressed potential long-term health problems associated
with such power lines and noted that, in his opinion, the proposed lines are for export, not
necessity.
In the spirit of time, Ms. Marina Santoro, 40766 Calle Cancion, relayed her concurrence with the
previously made comments.
Mr. Paul O'Neal, 27740 Jefferson Avenue, consultant for San Diego Gas and Electric Company,
commented on the Company's desire to have the City be a participant in this process;
suggested that workshops be scheduled in the City of Temecula in order to address
concerns/questions; and read into the record a statement by San Diego Gas and Electric.
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Councilman Naggar concurred with the scheduling of public workshops.
Mayor Comerchero, echoed by Mayor Pro Tern Roberts, relayed his strong support of staff's
recommendation.
MOTION: Councilman Naggar moved to concur with staff recommendation. The motion was
seconded by Mayor Comerchero and voice vote reflected unanimous approval.
In response to Councilman Pratt, Mr. O'Neal noted that if this project were not approved, San
Diego will continue to experience rolling blackouts.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
No additional comments.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
No additional comments.
CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT
With regard to Closed Session Item No. 1, City Attorney Thorson advised that there was no
reportable action under the Brown Act. Summarizing City Council action with regard to Item No.
2, Mr. Thorson advised that the City Council had voted 3-0 (with Councilman Naggar and
Councilman Pratt not participating in the vote) to authorize the defense with the reservation of
rights for Councilman Naggar and Councilman Pratt subject to conditions and reservations as
outlined in Government Code Sections 825 and 995; and that he would follow up with
Councilman Naggar and Councilman Pratt by way of letter, explaining the City Council's action
and will accordingly proceed.
At this time, Mayor Comerchero made a short statement with regard to the Council's action,
commenting on the reasoning of this action.
Councilman Naggar advised that he had requested City Attorney Thorson to provide an opinion
as to when a City Councilmember is or is not a City Councilmember.
ADJOURNMENT
At 11:17 P.M., the City Council meeting was formally adjourned to Tuesday, May 8, 2001, at
7:00 P.M., in the City Council Chambers, 43200 Business.P-ark-Drive, Temecula, California.
ATTEST:
[SEAL].'
R:\Minutes\042401
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