4/13/1998MINUTES OF A
REGULAR MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL
OF THE
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, CALIFORNIA
APRIL43;1998
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills -was called to order by
Mayor Lay at 7:30 p.m., in the City Council Chambers, at City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend
Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Heinsheimer, Murdock, Mayor Pro Tem Hill and Mayor
Lay.
Councilmembers Absent: Pernell (excused).
Others Present: Craig R. Nealis, City Manager.
Lola Ungar, Planning Director.
Marilyn L. Kern, Deputy City Clerk.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Matters which may be acted upon by the City Council in a single motion. Any
Councilmember may request removal of any item from the Consent Calendar
causing it to be considered under Council Actions.
a. Minutes - March 23, 1998.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
b. Payment of Bills.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
C. Status report regarding SB 1156, multi -family rental housing.
RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file.
d. Consideration of proposal for tree trimming maintenance at the City Hall and
east side of tennis courts adjacent to Portuguese Bend Road.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
e. Correspondence from the U.S. Department Of Transportation - Federal
Aviation Administration announcing a meeting to consider aviation noise
and quality of life issues.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council approve the recommendations
in the Consent Calendar. Mayor Pro Tem Hill seconded the motion which carried
unanimously.
PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
None.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION ITEMS
CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE TRAFFIC
COMMISSION REGARDING A REQUEST FROM THE SOUTH COAST CHAPTER
OF THE CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY FOR A GARDEN TOUR AT 4
APPALOOSA LANE AND 24 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report outlining the Traffic Commission's
recommended approval of the request from the South Coast Chapter of. the California
Native Plant Society to conduct the garden tour. Hearing no discussion, Mayor Lay called
for a motion.
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Councilmember Murdock moved that the City Council approve the recommendation of
the Traffic Commission as presented. Councilmember Heinsheimer seconded the motion
which carried unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION
FOR A MINOR TRAFFIC WARNING SIGN ON GEORGEFF ROAD AT THE
INTERSECTION OF GEORGEFF ROAD AND EL CONCHO LANE.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report outlining the Traffic Commission's
recommended approval of a traffic warning sign on Georgeff Road at the intersection of El
Concho Lane. Hearing no discussion, Mayor Lay called for a motion.
Councilmember Murdock moved that the City Council approve the recommendation of
the Traffic Commission as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Hill seconded the motion which
carried unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION OF THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION
FOR A VEHICLE ADVISORY TRAFFIC SIGN ON PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
JUST SOUTH OF RANCHERO ROAD.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report outlining the Traffic Commission's
recommended approval of an advisory traffic sign on Portuguese Bend Road just south of
Ranchero Road. Hearing no objection, Mayor Lay called for a motion.
Councilmember Murdock moved that the City Council approve the recommendation of
the Traffic Commission as presented. Mayor Pro Tem Hill seconded the motion which
carried unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 566, SUBDIVISION NO. 82 AND TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP
NO. 21400; A REQUEST TO MODIFY A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED 3 -LOT
SUBDIVISION OF LAND AT LOT 85-RH, AND CURRENTLY, 10 PINE TREE
LANE, ROLLING HILLS, CA, AN EXISTING LOT THAT HAS ONE RESIDENTIAL
UNIT, TO BE IMPLEMENTED BY MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM HASSOLDT. LOT 85-
RH CONSISTS OF 7.826 ACRES GROSS TO BE DIVIDED INTO THREE PARCELS
AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 1 - 2.78 ACRES GROSS, 2.07 ACRES NET; PARCEL 2 - 2.58
ACRES GROSS, 2.07 ACRES NET; AND PARCEL 3 - 2.47 ACRES GROSS, 2.01
ACRES NET. THE MODIFICATION REQUEST RELATES TO CURRENTLY
REQUIRED ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report providing background, Planning
Commission action and current status of Zoning Case No. 566.
Councilmembers discussed the Planning Commission's recommendation to develop the
roadway and safety issues related to the roadway. City Manager Nealis explained the
Planning Commission's actions and public testimony taken at the various public hearings
held regarding the proposed modification to Pine Tree Lane. He indicated that it was the
consensus of the applicant and other Pine Tree Lane residents attending the public hearing
as well as the Planning Commission that the trees, shrubs• and driveway improvements
along Pine Tree Lane should not be disturbed. He also said that the applicant is proposing
to not widen Pine Tree Lane beyond 18 feet in any location and that the minor widening
would be completed in 3 locations totaling 330 feet where no impacts to driveways, trees or
shrubs would occur. Mayor Lay opened the public hearing and called for testimony.
Mr. Gary Wynn, Wynn Engineering, Inc., explained the roadway modifications and
provided a brief history regarding the applicants' request to modify the roadway
requirements to their subdivision request. He stated that the applicants are anxious to
record their tentative parcel map. Mr. Wynn presented photographs of the existing
roadway and pointed out on the plans areas where existing Eucalyptus and Pine Trees
would be affected by the currently required roadway improvements. He also stated that
driveways, water meters and other improvements on properties along Pine Tree Lane may
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be impacted by widening the roadway to 24 feet as originally required. He explained the
survey work completed to verify the trees and improvements that would be affected if the
roadway remained at 24 feet in width for the entire length.
Discussion ensued regarding the number, of potential home sites on Pine Tree Lane due to
proposed subdivisions.
Mayor Lay announced that he would like to continue consideration of Zoning Case No.
566 until after those in the audience wishing to speak at Open Agenda had done so.
OPEN AGENDA - APPROXIMATELY 8:00 P.M. - PUBLIC COMMENT WELCOME
• Marshall Mouw, President of the Los Angeles County Division of the League of
California Cities, introduced himself to the City Council and provided an overview of
the League's activities.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 566, SUBDIVISION NO. 82 AND TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP
NO. 21400; A REQUEST TO MODIFY A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED 3 -LOT
SUBDIVISION OF LAND AT LOT 85-RH, AND CURRENTLY, 10 PINE TREE
LANE, ROLLING HILLS, CA, AN EXISTING LOT THAT HAS ONE RESIDENTIAL
UNIT, TO BE IMPLEMENTED BY MR. AND MRS. WILLIAM HASSOLDT. LOT 85-
RH CONSISTS OF 7.826 ACRES GROSS TO BE DIVIDED INTO THREE PARCELS
AS FOLLOWS: PARCEL 1 - 2.78 ACRES GROSS, 2.07 ACRES NET; PARCEL 2 - 2.58
ACRES GROSS, 2.07 ACRES NET; AND PARCEL 3 - 2.47 ACRES GROSS, 2.01
ACRES NET. THE MODIFICATION REQUEST RELATES TO CURRENTLY
REQUIRED ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS.
Mayor Lay returned to consideration of Zoning Case No. 566 and called for further
testimony.
Mrs. Judith Hassoldt, applicant, commented on the Planning Commission field trip and
the support from her neighbors for keeping the ambiance of Pine Tree Lane rather than
widening it as originally required. Mrs. Hassoldt also explained the previous plan.
Dr. Martin Goldberg, 6 Pine Tree Lane, expressed his support for the -Hassoldts' efforts to
maintain the ambiance of Pine Tree Lane and read from his letter to the City Council dated
April 13, 1998. He stated that he has lived on Pine Tree Lane since 1977 and that he has not
witnessed any accidents on the roadway. Dr. Goldberg also commented on the Los Angeles
County Fire Department's concern for the applicant's proposal.
Discussion ensued regarding the location of the fire hydrants on Pine Tree Lane. Mr. Gary
Wynn, applicant's representative, pointed out on the plan the location of the fire hydrants.
Councilmember Heinsheimer explained the Fire Department's responsibility in reviewing
roadway modifications in the City.
Mrs. Patty Wicks, 1 Pine Tree Lane, commented on the Fire Department's concern for the
proposed roadway plan and expressed her support for the applicants' efforts to maintain
the ambiance of Pine Tree Lane.
Mrs. Patty Goren, 20 Reata Lane, expressed her support for the applicants' efforts to
maintain the ambiance of Pine Tree Lane.
Mr. Dave Wagman, 3 Pine Tree Lane, expressed her support for the applicants' efforts to
maintain the ambiance of Pine Tree Lane.
Battalion Chief Dennis Ware, Los Angeles County Fire Department, presented the Fire
Department's recommendation that Pine Tree Lane be improved to a minimum of 20 feet
of paved road and widened to 26 feet at each fire hydrant with decomposed granite for 50
feet. He explained the concerns of the Fire Department regarding the ingress and egress of
emergency vehicles as well as for evacuation of residents during an emergency.
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Discussion ensued regarding the Fire Department's recommendation. In response to the
City Council, Captain John Jacobs and Fire Inspector Mitch Diehl, Los Angeles County Fire
Department, explained how the Department's equipment accesses fire hydrants and other
apparatus and methods used by the Department in fighting a fire.
Mr. Don Crocker, 14 Cinching Road, commented on a fire which destroyed his home and a
number of other homes in the City in 1976. He expressed concern for the combustible
mature Pine trees on Pine Tree Lane.
Mr. William Hassoldt, applicant, commented on the meetings held with the Fire
Department and staff to determine a compromise in the roadway width and further
explained the proposed improvements to Pine Tree Lane.
Mr. Charles Raine, Caballeros representative, commented on trail access in the area of Pine
Tree Lane. Mrs. Hassoldt pointed out on a plan where each property on Pine Tree Lane
could access a local trail.
Elizabeth Burns, 26 Portuguese Bend Road, commented on trail access. She described an
incident as she was walking her horse along Pine Tree Lane and encountered a fast
moving vehicle.
Councilmembers and those in attendance discussed potential solutions to meet the
applicant's desires and Fire Department concerns. Further discussion ensued regarding the
number of additional homes that may be built due to proposed subdivisions in the area.
Councilmember Heinsheimer suggested that the applicant consider moving the fire
hydrants to accommodate better Fire Department access and that the fire hydrant locations
should be consistent with the minor roadway widening.
Discussion ensued regarding the future maintenance of the roadway and decomposed
granite areas by the Rolling Hills Community Association. Mr. Gary Wynn, applicants'
representative indicated that the Community Association has deferred to the City
regarding the roadway improvements. Mr. Don Crocker, Member of the RHCA Board of
Directors, stated the Community Association was under the impression that the roadway
improvements would be approved by the Fire Department.
Councilmembers concurred that they would like to view the proposed improvements in
the field. The applicants were requested to create a plan for review at a field trip meeting
depicting a roadway that would maintain Pine Tree Lane's ambiance while meeting the
Fire Department's standards at the fire hydrants. Staff was directed to research with the
City Attorney what the City's liability would be if the roadway did not meet the
recommendations of the Fire Department. Staff was also directed to review with the
Community Association the maintenance of the material used in the areas widened at the
fire hydrants.
Hearing no further discussion or objection, Mayor Lay continued consideration of Zoning
Case No. 566 to an adjourned regular meeting of the City Council to be held on Thursday,
April 23, 1998, beginning at 8:00 a.m., for the purpose of conducting a field review of
proposed roadway modifications on Pine Tree Lane.
RECESS
Mayor Lay recessed the meeting at 9:25 p.m.
RECONVENE
Mayor Lay reconvened the meeting at 9:35 p.m.
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OLD BUSINESS
CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR A ONE YEAR EXTENSION OF TIME TO AN
AGREEMENT BETWEEN METRICOM, INC. AND THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
FOR THE INSTALLATION, OPERATION;. AND MAINTENANCE OF WIRELESS
DIGITAL COMMUNICATION RADMOS"WITkIN THE LIMITS OF THE CITY.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report. Hearing no discussion, Mayor Lay called
for a motion.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council approve a one year extension
of time to the agreement between Metricom, Inc. and the City of Rolling Hills.
Councilmember Hill seconded the motion which carried unanimously. Staff was directed
to prepare a Resolution memorializing this action for consideration at the next regularly
scheduled meeting of the City Council.
NEW BUSINESS
CONSIDERATION OF STAFF REPORT RELATING TO MATTERS REQUESTED BY
THE CITY COUNCIL AND CORRESPONDENCE FROM ROLLING HILLS
RESIDENT DR. CARROLL J. BELLIS REGARDING LANDSLIDE MORATORIUM IN
RANCHO PALOS VERDES.
City Manager Nealis presented the staff report providing background regarding this issue,
including the process and timeline that the City of Rancho Palos Verdes will undertake to
review the feasibility study for the landslide remediation project and potential
moratorium exclusion, comments from the City Attorney relative to conflict of interest
matters, liability insurance coverage through the CJPIA and comments from Los Angeles
County relative to independent geological review of the project. Mayor Lay requested
comments from the public.
Ms. Cathy Nichols, 14 Crest Road West, urged the City Council to have an independent
review of the proposed project being considered by Rancho Palos Verdes. She provided
background regarding landslide issues in Rancho Palos Verdes.
Mr. Bill Griffin, 5 Ginger Root Lane, Rancho Palos Verdes, provided maps and
explanations of various landslide areas in Rancho Palos Verdes and their proximity to
Rolling Hills.
Mr. Don Crocker, 14 Cinchring Road/Member of the RHCA Board of Directors, presented a
draft letter dated, April 13, 1998, from the RHCA requesting that the City obtain a bid from
the County Engineer for a review of the proposed Rancho Palos Verdes project's impact on
properties within the City of Rolling Hills on behalf of Rolling Hills residents. He stated
that the RCHA may be willing to pay the costs associated with this County Engineer
review. Councilmember Heinsheimer requested that Mr. Crocker prepare a final draft of
the letter on RHCA letterhead and return it to the City.
Dr. and Mrs. Arvel Witte, 5 Quail Ridge Road South, urged the City Council to have the
County conduct an independent review of the proposed project's impact on properties in
Rolling Hills. Dr. Witte suggested that the City Council may wish to request the support
from Rancho Palos Verdes for an independent County Engineer review. Dr. Witte also
commented on the destruction of natural habitat associated with the proposed project in
Rancho Palos Verdes.
Discussion ensued regarding Dr. Witte's comments regarding requesting support from
Rancho Palos Verdes. Mayor Lay urged interested homeowners in Rolling Hills to
approach the City of Rancho Palos Verdes regarding their concerns.
Mr. Al Esser, 71 Crest Road East, provided an explanation of drainage issues relating to
landslides and presented a photograph depicting erosion in areas of Rolling Hills and
Rancho Palos Verdes. He urged that the City Council obtain the services of an Engineer to
conduct an independent review of the subject project.
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Mr. Carl Price, 1 Quail Ridge Road South, commented on the support of Rancho Palos
Verdes residents relative to the Rancho Palos Verdes psroject.
Hearing no objection, Mayor Lay indicated that he would approach Mayor Barbara Ferraro
to schedule a meeting to discuss matters of mutual concern relating to this subject.
CONSIDERATION OF STAFF REPORT REGARDING AB 1776, SB 2001 AND SB
1723 RELATING TO THE REPEAL OF VEHICLE LICENSE FEES.
Staff was directed to prepare correspondence opposing AB 1776, SB 2001 and SB 1723 for the
Mayor's signature.
MATTERS FROM MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
None.
MATTERS FROM STAFF
None.
MATTERS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the City Council, Mayor Lay adjourned the meeting at
10:40 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the City Council to be held on Thursday,
April 23, 1998, beginning at 8:00 a.m., for the purpose of conducting a field review of
proposed roadway modifications on Pine Tree Lane in conjunction with a 3 -lot
subdivision at 10 Pine Tree Lane, Rolling Hills, California.
Approved,
Mayor
Respectfully submitted,
k —LP
Marilyn L. Kefn
Deputy City Clerk
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