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HomeMy WebLinkAbout082803 CC/PTS Jnt. Agendain compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the office of the City Clerk (909) 694-6444. Notification 48 hours prior to a meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to that meeting [28 CFR 35.102.35.104 ADA Tte ] AGENDA JOINT CITY COUNCIL/PUBLIC TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION AN ADJOURNED REGULAR WORKSHOP CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 43200 BUSINESS PARK DRIVE AUGUST 28, 2003 - 6:00 P.M. At approximately 9:45 P.M., the City Council will determine which of the remaining agenda items can be considered and acted upon prior to 10:00 P.M. and may continue all other items on which additional time is required until a future meeting. All meetings are scheduled to end at 11:00 P.M. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Jeff Stone Flag Salute: Councilman Naggar ROLL CALL: Councilmembers Comerchero, Naggar, Pratt, Roberts, Stone Public Traffic Safety Commissioners Katan, Lanier, Ramos, Wedel, and Connerton PUBLIC COMMENTS A total of 30 minutes is provided so members of the public may address the Council/Commission on items that appear within the Consent Calendar or ones that are not listed on the agenda. Speakers are limited to two (2) minutes each. If you desire to speak to the Council/Commission on an item which is listed on the Consent Calendar or a matter not listed on the agenda, a pink "Request to Speak" form should be filled out and filed with the City Clerk. When you are called to speak, please come forward and state your name for the record. For all Public Hearing or Council/Commission Business matters on the agenda, a "Request to Speak" form must be filed with the City Clerk prior to the Council/Commission addressing that item. There is a five-minute (5) time limit for individual speakers. CITY COUNCIL/PUBLIC TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION REPORTS Reports by the members of the City Council/Public Traffic Safety Commission on matters not on the agenda will be made at this time. A total, not to exceed, ten (10) minutes will be devoted to these reports. R:~Agenda\082803 1 COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR 1. Minutes 1.1 Approve the minutes of July 24, 2003. COUNCIL/COMMISSION BUSINESS 2 Consideration of Red Light Enforcement Actions RECOMMENDATION: 2.1 Hear presentations from the Police Chief and the Public Works DirectodCity Engineer regarding red light violations; 2.2 Discuss and provide direction regarding the Stop Light Abuse Program (SLAP) and pilot red light photo enforcement system; 2.3 After deliberation, if appropriate, form a subcommittee of two City Councilmembers and two Public Traffic Safety Commissioners to establish goals, participate in the review of other agency's programs, to assist in the development of Temecula's program, and to provide input regarding a public relations campaign; 2.4 Maintain a focused SLAP Program during the development of the pilot program. ADJOURNMENT City Council next regular meeting: Tuesday, September 16, 2003, 7:00 P.M., City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. Public Traffic Safety Commission next regular meeting: Thursday, September 25, 2003, 6:00 P.M., City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. R:~Agenda\082803 2 ITEM 1 MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY OF TEMECULA PUBLIC/TRAFFIC SAFETY COMMISSION JULY 24, 2003 CALL TO ORDER The City of Temecula Public/Traffic Safety Commission convened in a regular meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2003, in the City Council Chambers of Temecula City Hall, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula, California. FLAG SALUTE Commissioner Ramos led the audience in the Flag salute. ROLL CALL Present: Chairman Connerton, Commissioners, Wedel Absent: Commissioners Lanier and Katan PUBLIC COMMENTS No public comments. COMMISSION CONSENT CALENDAR 1 Minutes of June 26, 2003 RECOMMENDATION: 1.1 Approve the Minutes of June 26, 2003. MOTION: Commissioner Ramos moved to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 1. Commissioner Wedel seconded the motion and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioners Katan and Lanier who were absent. COMMISSION BUSINESS 2. Red Light Abuse/Status of Red Li,qht Photo Enforcement Systems RECOMMENDATION: 2.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission hear a presentation from the Public Works DirectodCity Engineer and the Police Chief in preparation for the Joint City Council/Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting regarding red light violations. Principal Engineer Moghadam stated that Mayor Stone had requested that Police Chief Domenoe provide an update on the Stop Light Abuse Program (SLAP). R:W~inutes\PublicTrafficSa fetyCornmission072403 Police Chief Domenoe provided the Commission with an update on the Stop Light Abuse Program (SLAP), noting the following: · That on July 9, 2003, the Police Department had enhanced the already in place SLAP program; · That between the dates of July 9th and July 23rd, 313 red light citations were written to violators at the primary intersections; That this citation process was accomplished by the rescheduling of motorcycle units and redeployment of officers in an effort to concentrate on the primary intersections; that officers may sign up for an additional 16 hours of overtime; That the issued citation numbers have not decreased, noting that 43 citations were issued on July 234; that, hopefully, with public education, this number will decrease; that by way of a local radio station, public information was distributed with regard to the SLAP program; · That Sgt. Pino, the City's first motorcycle officer, will be returning to the force as a Sergeant which will provide one additional motorcycle officer to the force. In response to Chairman Connerton, Police Chief Domenoe noted that prior to the implementation of the SLAP Program, approximately 20% to 25% of the issued citations (as stated above) would have been written. Police Chief Domenoe, for Commissioner Wedel, advised that very few traffic collisions are as a result of not stopping at red light but that the SLAP Program focuses on the intersections that have the most violation complaints. As a result of the SLAP Program, Police Chief Domenoe noted, for Commissioner Wedel, that officers are spending less time with regard to speed enforcement. In response to Mr. VVedel, Police Chief Domenoe advised that all City's have a red light problem and that, in his opinion, there is no acceptable level for red light abuse and speeding; that officers do run a higher risk with red light citations because if a red light were run, the officer must as well run the in order to issue a citation; and that, therefore, motorcycle officers are a valuable tool. Chairman Connerton thanked Chief Domenoe for his report. Director Hughes provided the Commission with a presentation on the Photo Enforcement Pilot Program, as follows: That two years ago, the City commissioned a photo enforcement study; that the study recommended against the Photo Enforcement Pilot Program for the following reasons: That most cities that implement a photo enforcement programs do so to correct collisions and to provide additional safety at intersections; that the City has a very Iow number of collisions due to red lights compared to other agencies; R:'~vlin utes~PublicTrafficSafetyComrnission072403 o That there is a limited camera technology for left-turn lane movements. · That intersections chosen for red light enforcement are those the most accidents tend to happen; that those intersections as well tend to have the most volume of traffic. Further addressing the Red Light Enforcement Program, Director Hughes noted the following: Proposed Red Light Enforcement · That the City Council has directed staff to develop a short- and long-term solution to the red light violations · That the City enforces the SLAP Program · That a Photo Enforcement Pilot Program be implemented Red Light Violation Problems · That the City has 58 signalized intersections, not including State routes · That regional congestion will continue to increase, causing more traffic delays · That due to these traffic delays, drivers are more impatient and frustrated · That there is a lack of respect for traffic control devices · That left-turn violations are on the increase and that most complaints pertain to left-turn violations New Developments in Photo Enforcement Pro,qrams · That due to new growth, new laws, and technology, other agencies are re- modeling their programs · That pending legislation, possibly June of 2004, will establish guidelines on how photo enforcement may be utilized by cities · That other agencies are utilizing dual camera systems; that these systems may obtain two to three photos for the same citation · That the City of San Diego and many other agencies are changing vendors to ensure that vendors are not profiting from the percentage of citations issued Pilot Program Parameters · That a top priority Fist of intersections be established. R:~lin utes~Pu blicTrafficSafetyCommission072403 That one criterion for selecting intersections is based on accident data, requesting the Commissioners to provide any other criteria That the success or failure of the program would depend on how the program is implemented; that the Federal Highways Administration (FHA) provides guidelines on the formation of photo enforcement programs; that FHA would recommend that a program be developed with citizen input, possibly by forming a citizen's task force Pilot Pro,qram estimated cost over 2 years - approximately $600,000 · That the vendor costs vary from vendor to vendor That the maintenance cost could be approximately $50,000 to $60,000 per intersection; that this cost would include replacing the film, recalibrating the system, court cost, and any hidden costs That some additional costs could be the public relations, media support, and public education Citation Revenues · That the City would receive revenue from the cost of the citation, which would be $321.00 a citation of which the City would receive approximately $145.00 · That the pilot program could be initially self-funding but that as compliance is received, the program would need supplemental funding Pros and Cons of Photo Enforcement · Pros for this program are as follows: Will discourage drivers from attempting to run red lights Will generate revenue to help fund the program Will promote positive City image in attacking red light violators Will reduce red light collisions · Cons for this program are as follows: o Could result in increased rear-end collisions o May give impression that the system is to increase revenue, rather than safety concerns o Generates complaints regarding signal operations o Additional staff resources will be needed for administration of the program, noting that there would be a need for two additional administrative staff positions and additional two to three motorcycle officers R:'u~linutes\PublicTrafficSa fetyCommission072403 Pilot Program Recommendations · That to continue to enforce and monitor the SLAP Program. · That the following two intersections be implemented into the SLAP Program: o Rancho California Road and Ynez Road o Jefferson Avenue and Winchester Road o Possibly the State right-of-ways, but permitting may be difficult and lengthy · That photo enforcement be located at one of the four left-turn approaches at each intersection, noting that enforcement of left-turn approaches will require new technology Implementation Schedule · That the pilot program should be reviewed with County Traffic Courts for acceptance · That time be spent analyzing to analyze the type of systems available · That a public hearing be held to educate the public · That a recruitment of City and Police Department staff would be necessary · That a warning notice be sent for the first 30 days of the program to violators · That the program will be in full operation within six to twelve months, depending upon the completion of other on-going street improvements at the intersections Next Steps · That a Joint City Council meeting be held for review on August 28, 2003 · That City Council appropriate funds and commit staff resources · That a citizen committee be formed. Commissioner Ramos inquired about what is meant by "two approaches". For Commissioner Ramos, Public Works Director Hughes clarified the term two approaches, noting that there are usually eight phases to an intersection, which consists of through movements and left-turn movements, and that each approach would require a camera setup; that the terms of a vendor contract may vary among vendors; and that results from the City of San Diego reflected a 60% collection as a result a driver and license plate photo. R:Wlinutes\PubricTrafficSa fetyCommission072403 Commissioner Wedel inquired about the general attitude of law enforcement regarding the red light cameras to which Commissioner Ramos, echoed by Chief Domenoe, stated that, in his experience, welcome any additional tools that may be used to lower the amount of accidents. Commissioner Wedel requested that the manuscript regarding the design and effect of red light cameras on traffic injuries and drivers safety (from the General American Medical Association/Santa Barbara) be circulated to the City Council. In response to Commissioner Wedel, Chairman Connerton requested that this manuscript be included in the Joint City Council/Public Traffic Safety Commission meeting agenda packet. Advising that the manuscript would be forwarded to the Council/Commission, Mr. Hughes noted that staff has as well collected approximately 50 to 60 articles in support of photo enforcement to which Chairman Connerton requested that these articles be included as well. In response to Chairman Connerton's inquiry as to the need for two additional officers and additional administrative staff, Public Works Director Hughes stated that two additional officers would be for reviewing photos, recalibration of the machines, removing/replacing the film, answering public questions, and maintenance and that the additional administrative staff would be for citation processing. Mr. Hughes advised that the use of film is not absolute and that some courts permit the use of digital prints; that the connection for the cameras will be fiber optic, which would support high resolution and high-definition digital which could be transmitted to the City for downloading. Public Works Director Hughes further clarified the camera monitoring system, noting that most conduits are in place, mounting stands are being installed; that the Traffic Division is set up with the camera systems; and that the cameras should be operational within the month. Public Works Director Hughes, for Chairman Connerton, advised that, at the joint meeting, staff will be seeking direction in order to move forward with the pilot program. With regard to the timeline of the construction, Mr. Hughes advised that construction bids have been advertised for Rancho California Road and Ynez Road; that the completion date would be anticipated prior to the holidays; that because of the right-of- ways that the City must acquire and because of several utility conflicts, the Jefferson and Winchester Roads intersection will be completed in approximately one year. Mr. Hughes noted that although some conduit could be added, the camera program could not be added into those contracts. In order to keep the Commission apprised, Chairman Connerton requested that a report with recommendations be presented in 60 days. It is noted that the Public/Traffic Safety Commission received and filed the report with comments. R:'~lin utes\P u blicTrafficSafetyCommission072403 3. Multi-Way Stop Si,qns - Valleio Avenue at Cabo Street and Palma Drive RECOMMENDATION: 3.1 That the Public/Traffic Safety Commission recommend against the installation of Multi-Way Stop Signs on Vallejo Avenue at Cabo Street and Palma Drive. Principal Engineer Moghadam presented an overview of the staff report (as per agenda material), noting the following: That a request has been received to review the feasibility of installing a multi-way stop signs along Vallejo Avenue to reduce vehicular speeds and eliminate cut- through traffic · That the existing conditions are as follows: Vallejo Avenue is a 32-foot wide residential collector roadway with very Iow traffic volumes on one portion of Vallejo between Ynez Road and La Paz Road o The average daily traffic (ADT) on Vallejo Avenue (west) between Ynez Road and La Paz Road is approximately 522 vehicles per day o The average daily traffic (ADT) on Vallejo Avenue (east) between La Paz Road and Ynez Road is approximately 178 vehicles per day o The current posted speed limit is 35 MPH on Vallejo Avenue · That a multi-way stop warrants analysis was performed during weekdays, not during church hours on Sunday · That the volumes reported on the analysis did not meet the requirements to establish multi-way stop signs That church generated traffic may add to the perception of increased cut-through traffic movements; that the traffic generated by the church should not be considered as cut-through traffic since Vallejo Avenue provides the only source of access to Rancho Community Church · That another concern is the lack of adequate sight distance along Vallejo Avenue due to the horizontal and vertical alignment of the roadway. · That at the speed of 35 MPH, the minimum stopping sight distance required is approximately 250 feet · That the stopping sight distance at Cabo Street (in both directions) is unobstructed R:',Min utes'd3ublicTrafficSafetyCommission072403 That at the Palma Drive (looking south) intersection, sight distance was restricted by the vegetation located on the south corner of the intersection; that a work order was requested to remove the vegetation That with the removal of vegetation at one location and the adequate sight distance at both intersections, staff does not support the request for installation of multi-way stop signs at the intersections of Vallejo Avenue/Cabo Street and Vallejo Avenue/Palina Drive. Having visited the sites of discussion, Chairman Connerton noted that he had not observed any cut-through traffic. At this time, the public hearing was opened; there being no public input, the hearing was closed. MOTION: Commissioner Ramos moved to approve staff's recommendation to deny the installation of Multi-Way Stop Signs on Vallejo Avenue at Cabo Street and Palma Drive. Commissioner Wedel seconded the motion and voice vote reflected approval with the exception of Commissioners Katan and Lanier who were absent. 4. Traffic Engineer's Report Director of Public Works Hughes gave an update on a Commission's previous action regarding the Promenade Chardonnay Homeowners Association (HOA) project which involved having medians installed at the certain intersections; stated that there is not a consensus with the Association on how to proceed; referenced a letter from a Promenade Chardonnay homeowner (Mr. Joe La Marca), requesting that medians be installed at certain Iow-impact locations but that stop signs be installed at other locations; stated that because of the lack of consensus, the City Manager requested that the item be withdrawn from the City Council agenda; and noted that staff will continue to work with the representatives of the Association. Chairman Connerton requested that any changes that are made to the Commissions approval should be brought back to the Commission. 5. Police Chief's Report Police Chief Domenoe stated that the City Council approved three additional positions. 6. Fire Chief's Report Battalion Chief Deyo commented on the Department's involvement with the Purple Ribbon Month Program, scheduled for the month of August; explained that the Purple Ribbon Month is a nationally recognized event in the memory of Katen Russell and all children who have suffered and/or lost their lives due to preventable injuries in and around cars; advised that the Fire Department along with California Highway Patrol, Riverside City Fire Department, and the Riverside County Fire Department will be placing bumper stickers and placards on the fire vehicles throughout the City as a reminder to never leave children unattended in a car. R:Wlin utes\PublicTraffTcSa fetyCommission072403 7. Commission Reports Commissioner Ramos commended the Police Department for all their hard work. Commissioner Wedel also thanked the Police Department; commented on cut-through traffic concerns; and questioned how a citizen's complaint on cut-through traffic should be handled. Commissioner Ramos stated that traffic has significantly increased in the past years and noted that there is not a California law that would prohibit a registered vehicle from driving down a public highway. Chairman Connerton stated that the General Plan Review Committee will be reviewing traffic congestion. Chairman Connerton stated that green lights are continually burning out in various locations throughout the City. Chairman Connerton thanked the Police and Fire Departments on its response to the fire around the Recreation Center on the Fourth of July, ADJOURNMENT At 7:57 P.M. Chairman Connerton formally adjourned this meeting to the special meeting of the City of Temecula Public/Traffic Safety Commission and Joint City Council meeting of Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 6:00 P.M., in the City Council Chambers, 43200 Business Park Drive, Temecula. Chairman Darrell Connerton Administrative Secretary Anita Pyle R:'JVlin utes\Pu blicTrafficSafetyCommission072403 ITEM 2 CITY OF TEMECULA AGENDA REPORT APPROVAL ClTYATTORNEY DIREGTOR OF FINA...~.~i~ ClTY MANAGER TO: FROM: DATE: SUBJECT: City Council and Public/Traffic Safety Commission ~Jimilliam G. Hughes, Director of Public Works/City Engineer Domenoe, Police Chief August 28, 2003 Consideration of Red Light Enforcement Actions RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council and Public/Traffic Safety Commission: 1) Hear presentations from the Police Chief and the Public Works DirectodCity Engineer regarding red light violations. 2) Discuss and provide direction regarding the Stop Light Abuse Program (SLAP)and pilot red light photo enforcement system. 3) After deliberation, if appropriate, form a sub-committee of two City Council members and two Public Traffic Safety Commissioners to: establish goals, participate in the review of other agency's programs, assist in the development of Temecula's program, and to provide input regarding a public relations campaign. 4) Maintain a focused SLAP Program during the development of the pilot program. BACKGROUND: At the July 8, 2003 City Council meeting staffwas directed to increase support to "SLAP", and bring back a report on implementing a Pilot Photo Enforcement Program to a Joint City Council/Public/Traffic Safety Commission meeting. On July 24, 2003 the Public/Traffic Safety Commission heard presentations from Police Chief Domenoe and Public Works Director/City Engineer Hughes. The Commissioners asked several questions regarding the presentations and program options. The Commission also asked that ail of the articles assembled by City staff regarding photo enforcement be forwarded to both the City Council and Commission. 1 Red Light Violations and Collision History Regional grewth continues to increase trevel time delays making motorists impatient and frustreted. Motorists continue to show a lack of respect for treffic contrel devices, and left-turn violations have been increasing. Top 10 Collision Locations 6/1/2001 to 6~30~2003 Intersection Rear Head Side Broad Hit Over Vehicle End on Swipe Side Object Turn /Ped Other Total 4 10 19 2 0 1 2 93 4 7 24 2 1 0 3 93 2 6 8 3 0 0 1 68 0 4 42 2 0 0 0 63 2 12 8 I 0 0 0 61 3 3 15 0 0 1 2 57 3 5 18 0 0 0 0 53 3 2 33 2 0 0 0 50 0 5 6 4 0 2 2 47 I 2 23 0 0 0 2 45 Rancho California at Ynez 55 Winchester Road x Ynez Road 52 Rancho California at Jefferson Old Twn 48 Margarita x SR 79S 15 Winchester Road x Jefferson Avenue 38 1-15 NB Ramps at Rancho California 33 Rancho Calif at Moraga - Via Las Colinas 27 Winchester x Nicolas 10 Rancho California at Margarita 28 Winchester x 1-15 17 SLAP Citation Results Top Ten Intersections for Citations Ranking 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Controlled Citations Since by July 9th, 2003 Rancho California at Ynez City 397 Winchester Road at Ynez Road Caltrans 226 Winchester at Margarita Road Caltrans 42 Winchester Road at Jefferson Avenue Caltrans 35 Rancho California at Jefferson Old Town Front City 23 SR 79 S at 1-15 Caltrans 8 Ynez at Overland City 6 Rancho California at Margarita City 5 Winchester at 1-15 Caltrans 4 Winchester at Prom Mall East Caltrans 4 New Developments in Photo Enforcement Proclrams Photo enforcement technology, legal challenges, and legislation have continued to change the types of systems, and the way they are administered. Many agencies are in the precess of redesigning their progrems based on the new laws and changing technology. Most new systems are now using dual vs. single cameres, and agencies are taking a much greater hands-on approach to administering such programs. Proposed legislation AB1022 will completely eliminate vendor monetary incentives and it will standardize some features. Temecula's Pilot Program In developing a pilot program for the City of Temecula, it will be necessary to establish a pdority list of intersections where treffic safety and violations concerns are high. The Treffic Division and Police Department will recommend intersections based on accident data and the number of red light violations. Rather than re-invent the progrem it is recommended that we closely follow the progrem established by the City of San Diego and learn from their mistakes and successes. 2 All of the agencies we have reviewed have suggested that a committee of stakeholders be involved in the development of a program, and that a clear purpose be agreed upon for the program. Pilot Pro.qram Costs Although the projected cost of a pilot program can only be estimated at this time, based on review of other agency's programs, a two-year program is estimated to cost approximately $600,000 to $700,000. This estimate is based on two intersections with one approach direction monitored. Other agencies have had costs as much as $150,000 per intersection for one approach, which would cover design, administration, equipment, installation and set-up. The annual maintenance and administration of the system hardware, equipment to-calibrations, camera handling and film management and aro expected to range from $50,000-$60,000 per intersection per year. Citation Revenues The current rod light citation is $321 and the City receives approximately $145.00 of each violation prosecuted. It is anticipated that once installed and operating the program will be self-funding, however, other agencies have found that as compliance is achieved, the program may need supplemental funding. Pros and Cons of Photo Enforcement Pros Discourages drivers from attempting to run rod lights Will generate revenue to help fund program Promotes positive City image in attacking rod light violators Will reduce some types of rod light collisions Cons Could result in increased number of roar-end collisions May give impression that City is using system to increase revenues Will generate complaints regarding signal operations Additional City and Police staff will be required Although the final intersections to be selected for the pilot program need further review, two possible City controlled locations aro Rancho California Road at Ynez Road and Jefferson Avenue at Winchester Road. Also, if the City successfully acquires the SR 79 highways within the City, we should also strongly consider SR 79 South at Margarita Road; and SR 79North at Nicolas Road. Also, due to some technical issues some systems aro still not capable of enforcing left-turn movements, especially at dual left tums. Prior to final selection of a system the City will need to review our proposed pilot program with the County Traffic Courts for their acceptance. The Police Department and Public Works Departments are prepared to begin work on the pilot program upon direction. FISCAL IMPACT: Our preliminary estimate for a pilot program that would include start up costs and two years of administration will be approximately $600,000 to $700,000. Once the subcommittee formulates final recommendations additional budget appropriations will be required. Anticipated costs will include design, construction administration, sworn officers to verify citations, legal fees, court clerk costs, citation processing, maintenance of the camera systems and a public relations and media support programs. 3