9/10/2007i
MINUTES OF
A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, CALIFORNIA
SEPTEMBER 10, 2007
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by Mayor
Black at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling
Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Heinsheimer, Pernell, Lay, Mayor Pro Tem Hill and Mayor
Black.
Councilmembers Absent: None.
Others Present: Anton Dahlerbruch, City Manager.
Mike Jenkins, City Attorney.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Marilyn Kern, Deputy City Clerk.
St. Greg Ahn, LASD, Lomita Station.
Rolling Hills Estates Mayor Susan Seamans, Mayor Pro Tem Frank Zerunyan, Councilember
John Addleman, Councilmember Judith Mitchell, and Councilmember Steven Zuckerman
presented a plaque to the Rolling Hills City Council in recognition and celebration of the City's
501" Anniversary of Incorporation.
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 - Regular Meeting of August 27, 2007.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
b. Payment of Bills.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
C. Consideration of Resolution No. 1026: A resolution of the City of Rolling Hills
adopting an amended Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan and authorizing the City
Manager to amend and update the plan when required by State Law.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
d. Planning Commission Priorities/ Work Plan.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
e. Correspondence from California Water Service Company regarding Credit Card
Pilot Program.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
f. Refuse Contract Renewal Schedule.
RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file.
g. Comments to the Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration
from the City of Rancho Palos Verdes.
RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council approve the items on the Consent
Calendar. Councilmember Lay seconded the motion which carried unanimously.
PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
RESOLUTION NO. 2007-13.
RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING
HILLS GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A GUEST
HOUSE ON A LOT DEVELOPED WITH A SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE AT 22
SADDLEBACK ROAD, (LOT 15-RH), IN ZONING CASE NO. 744, (STEINHAUER).
Planning Director Schwartz presented the staff report outlining the applicants' request and
providing background regarding the property and Planning Commission action relative to
Zoning Case No. 744. Hearing no discussion, Mayor Black called for a motion.
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Mayor Pro Tem Hill moved that the City Council receive and file Resolution No. 2007-13.
Councilmember Lay seconded the motion which carried unanimously.
TRAFFIC COMMISSION ITEMS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
OLD BUSINESS
ORDINANCE NO. 305: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
REGARDING THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND AMENDING THE ROLLING
HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE.
(SECOND READING AND ADOPTION)
ORDINANCE NO. 306: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
REGARDING THE ADVISORY TRAFFIC COMMISSION AND AMENDING THE
ROLLING HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE.
(SECOND READING AND ADOPTION)
City Manager Dahlerbruch reported that the City Council introduced the ordinances at their
last meeting and that it is presented this evening for second reading and adoption. Hearing no
discussion, Mayor Black called for a motion.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council waive further reading and adopt
Ordinances No. 305 and 306. Councilmember Pernell seconded the motion which carried
unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION FROM THE TRAFFIC COMMISSION
RELATIVE TO A REQUEST FOR THE RELOCATION OF THE CURVE
DELINEATORS AT 44 EASTFIELD DRIVE.
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report outlining the request from the property
owner of 44 Eastfield Drive for the relocation of the curve delineators to provide parking in the
easement in front on their home and the Traffic Engineers recommended relocation and
spacing of the delineators to accommodate the request.
Discussion ensued regarding the Traffic Engineer's recommendation. It was noted that trees
and other shrubbery are located in the easement and it was suggested that the property owner
at 44 Eastfield Drive clear the area before the delineators are relocated in order to provide for
the optimal location of the delineators. Comments were offered regarding the RHCA's letter
to the property owner regarding a condition of the issuance of a license agreement for planting
in a side easement that the front easement be cleared of planting.
Vanessa Munoz, Traffic Engineer explained that curve delineators are necessary to provide
additional guidance to motorists who are maneuvering the curve. She indicated that the
delineators supplement the pavement marking and delineation.
Councilmembers discussed that following the clearing of the easement in the area that the
RHCA may wish to address the condition of the roadway easement by providing more fill as
they have done in other areas of the City if it is necessary at 44 Eastfield Drive.
Hearing no further discussion, Mayor Black called for a motion.
Councilmember Lay moved that the City Council approve the request from the property
owner at 44 Eastfield and the Traffic Engineers recommendation for the relocation of the curve
delineators at 44 Eastfield Drive with a condition that the area be cleared first in order for the
replacement delineators to be located in the most optimal locations. Councilmember
Heinsheimer seconded the motion which carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Heinsheimer, Lay, Pernell and Mayor Pro Tem Hill.
NOES: Mayor Black.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
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It was suggested that staff communicate to the RCHA that they may wish to fill the area with
soil after the clearing has been completed.
NEW BUSINESS
City Manager Dahlerbruch suggested that the City Council consider the Professional Services
Agreement between the City and Geosyntec at this time. Hearing no objection, Mayor Black
so ordered.
CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS AND GEOSYNTEC FOR 10 -MONTHS
AND THE OPTION FOR EXTENDING THE AGREEMENT UP TO THREE -YEARS;
THE FIRST YEAR AMOUNT NOT -TO -EXCEED $14,777.
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report providing background and information
regarding the agreement for consultant services to implement the requirements of the NPDES
and TMDL matters. It was noted that Ms. Kathleen McGowan, the City's current consultant,
has joined this firm and would continue to represent the City regarding these matters.
Following discussion, Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council approve the
professional agreement between the City and Geosyntec in an amount not to exceed $14,777 in
the first year, for 10 months, with the option for extending the agreement for up to 3 years.
Councilmember Pernell seconded the motion.
Councilmembers discussed the City's option to extend the agreement for up to 3 years and any
future costs that may be associated with an extension. It was explained the costs for the
extension would be negotiated at that time and that the City would have the option to either
extend the agreement at that time or not.
Following the discussion, the motion carried unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF THE APPROVAL OF THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AN
AMENDMENT TO THE AGREEMENT WITH RTK ARCHITECTS, INC. FOR THE
REMODEL OF THE CITY HALL LOBBY AREA.
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report outlining the proposal to remodel the
lobby area of City Hall and provided information regarding the conceptual drawing of the
proposed new floor plan. Discussion ensue regarding the costs associated with the expenses
for the consultant to carryout the next phases of the project which would included preparing
plans and specifications. so that the bidding process could begin.
Following discussion regarding the project triggering ADA requirements on the City Hall
restroom facilities, this item was held on the agenda for consideration at the next meeting.
Staff was directed to ascertain whether the proposed improvements would trigger ADA
improvements to other parts of City Hall.
TELEPHONE SYSTEM REPLACEMENT.
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report outlining the inadequacies of the current
system and the advantages of the proposed new system. City Manager Dahlerbruch explained
that staff had checked with other companies that have used the system and they all indicated
that they are satisfied with the operation of the system. He also explained that the repairs to
the system would be handled by the company providing the equipment which will include a
5 -year warranty on parts and 1 -year on labor. Hearing no further discussion, Mayor Black
called for a motion.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council approve the purchase of a new
telephone system for City Hall. Councilmember Lay seconded the motion which carried
unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO THE USE OF STABLES.
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report providing background and information
regarding this matter. He said that staff is seeking direction from the City Council on whether
or not it is interested in modifying the Municipal Code relative to the definition of the use of
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stables. He indicated that if a modification is desired, it is suggested that the matter be
referred to the Planning Commission with direction as to the elements of the Municipal Code
that should be modified.
It was noted that the current code allows for a stable to be used to shelter and feed permitted
domestic animals. Discussion ensued regarding the agricultural and rural uses of stables in
the City's residential -agricultural -suburban (RAS) zoning. It was suggested that the definition
of stables could be expanded to include uses that are compatible with the RAS zoning. It was
noted that some residents may not have an animal and that there may be other uses for the
stable such as agricultural or storage.
Concerns were expressed regarding stables that may have been converted into living space
without the benefit of building permits and inspected for compliance with electrical, fire and
plumbing codes. Councilmembers discussed that stables are encouraged in the City and the
over-the-counter process for approving stables. It was suggested that if a Conditional Use
Permit were required for all stables that the Planning Commission review process might deter
residents from converting stables into living space and provide for better designed and higher
quality stables. Comments were offered that this process might also serve to also preserve
stables in the City for future property owners who wish to keep animals on their property.
Discussion ensued regarding the number of larger barns in the City and the possibility that
these stables may require onsite personnel to attend to the animals. The use of tack rooms as
living quarters was discussed. Mrs. Jill Smith, 10 Georgeff Road, indicated that she does not
feel that this practice is prevalent in Rolling Hills. Planning Director Schwartz explained that
tack rooms are allowed to have restroom facilities with sinks and showers. She commented on
Health Department requirements that would not allow for a person living in a stable. It was
noted that stables might include other horse keeping facilities such as foaling quarters and
offices.
Councilmembers discussed the enforcement of the Municipal Code when stables are converted
into other uses. Comments regarding the history of stables in the City and numerous stables
in the City that have been converted over the years. Concern was expressed about the
feedback from residents should the City begin aggressively enforcing the Municipal Code
related to the uses of stables. It was noted that when voluntary compliance is not obtained
that the City has no other option than to pursue legal remedies to gain compliance. It was
suggested that the Municipal Code could be amended to allow for other uses for stables to
ensure compliance all safety regulations and so staff would have clear direction when a
legitimate complaint regarding a conversion is received by the City. It was suggested that the
Mayor appoint a subcommittee to study this issue further but following discussion, it was
suggested that the Planning Commission be directed to review this issue.
Discussion ensued regarding a process used in other cities that requires an inspection of the
property prior to its sale to advise prospective buyers of the non-compliant structure. It was
noted that this procedure may not be as beneficial as the expansion of the Municipal Code to
allow for other uses.
Mrs. Jill Smith, 10 Georgeff, commented on the discussion and indicated that she feels the City
Council is moving in the right direction to address the use of stables in the City. She reiterated
that she feels that the properties in Rolling Hills are not large enough to have full-time onsite
stable personnel which would require quarters for them to live in.
Further discussion ensued regarding the over-the-counter approval process for stables.
Planning Director Schwartz explained the during her review of plans stables for approval over
the counter that the plan must conform to the same pad coverage guidelines and regulations
as if they were reviewed by the Planning Commission. She indicated that the County
Department of Building and Safety and the RHCA also reviews the plan. Discussion ensued
regarding the requirements for a septic tank if restroom facilities are provided in a stable.
Councilmembers discussed stables versus guesthouses in the City. Concerns were expressed
that if stables were converted into habitable space that the complexion of the City would be
changed. It was noted that any changes regarding the uses for stables should take into account
the rural character of the City.
Further discussion ensued regarding the enforcement of the Municipal Code related to
converted stables. It was noted that it would not be equitable to enforce the code on the most
recently converted stables and not enforce the code on the stables that had been converted for
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years. The size of properties that can handle both a stable and guesthouse was discussed and
the fact that many smaller properties cannot handle both a stable and a guesthouse.
Discussion ensued regarding the complaints received regarding stable conversions and how
staff should proceed with enforcement of the Municipal Code. Recent enforcement efforts in a
neighboring city were discussed.
Hearing no further discussion, Mayor Black called for a motion.
Councilmember Lay moved that the City Council request that the Planning Commission
review the issue of stables with the following guidance:
1. Encourage stables for rural and agricultural purposes.
2. Discourage barns as a secondary residence.
3. Discourage the improper conversion of barns that preclude them from future
appropriate use.
4. Expand the definition of stable uses to the extent that uses do not violate County or
State laws in order to capture existing uses and narrow the possible violations.
5. Consider whether or not stables should continue to receive over -the counter approval
or alternatively, a CUP that requires Planning Commission review.
It was suggested that these items should be considered in the spirit of the rural character of the
City and the RAS zoning.
Mayor Pro Tem Hill seconded the motion which carried unanimously.
COMMENTS TO NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR U.S. ARMY RECLAIMED WATER
PROJECT.
City Manager Dal-lerbruch presented the staff report and draft letter to the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers expressing concerns about the impact of proposed construction on Palos Verdes
Drive North on pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Hearing no discussion Mayor Black called for
a motion.
Councilmember Heinsheimer moved that the City Council direct staff to send the
correspondence attached to the staff report in response to the Draft Supplemental
Environmental Assessment and Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Harbor -South Bay
Water Recycling Project. Councilmember Lay seconded the motion which carried
unanimously.
OPEN AGENDA - APPROXIMATELY 8:00 P.M. - PUBLIC COMMENT WELCOME
None.
MATTERS FROM MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Black commented on recent coyote sightings in the City. Staff reported on recent
reports of hearing and seeing coyotes and indicated that the County Department of
Agriculture has been informed to contact the residents.
Councilmember Pernell commented on recent correspondence from the Agricultural
Department regarding the Oriental fruit fly. It was suggested that staff prepare a letter
thanking the Department for their actions in this regard.
MATTERS FROM STAFF
AD HOC INFORMATION EXCHANGE FOCUS GROUP
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report outlining a process for the appointment
of participants to an ad hoc information exchange focus group.
Councilmembers discussed the process outlined in the staff report and concurred that such a
group would be an excellent way to involve more residents in issues affecting the City. It was
suggested that the City Manager be authorized to appoint members to the group.
Following discussion regarding how the group should be selected, Mayor Pro Tem Hill moved
that the City Council authorize the City Manager to advertise in the Citywide Newsletter the
opportunity for residents to participate in an Information Exchange Focus Group and at his
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discretion to select members. Councilmember Lay seconded the motion which carried
unanimously. It was suggested that in appointing members to the Focus Group that the City
Manager take into consideration the length of time the proposed member has resided in the
community, development experience and interest in the Community. It was also suggested
that the City Manager report quarterly to the Council on the discussion matters of the Focus
Group.
LOW PRESSURE SEWER
City Manager Dahlerbruch presented the staff report providing background and information
regarding a low-pressure sewer system. He reported on a recent meeting that was held to
discuss all aspects of constructing, operating and maintaining a low-pressure sewer system.
Discussion ensued regarding conducting a feasibility study and the specifications that should
be developed for such a study. Concerns regarding who would maintain the system were
expressed. Costs associated with a feasibility study were also discussed. City Manager
Dahlerbruch indicated that funds are in the FY 07-08 budget for a feasibility study.
Following the discussion, the City Council supported a feasibility study that focuses on the
pilot project areas but takes into account the potential future expansion of the system. It was
suggested that a detailed scope of work for the study be provided and it was specified that the
study should address specific questions such as: is boring an option, who maintains the
system, what is the cost over time, and where has this type of system been in place the longest.
Councilmembers expressed that they are interested in a field trip to view a working system.
There was no objection raised to engaging the City's contract engineers for the study.
MATTERS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY
Hui -Tse Sheen, Individual, Plaintiff, vs City of Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Community
Association, et. al., Los Angeles County Superior Court, Case No. YC051963.
G.C. 54956.9(a)
Jonas, et al. v. City of Rolling Hills, et al., Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No.
YC033955.
G.C. 54956.9(a)
Freeman v. City of Rolling Hills, et al., Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No.
YC054015.
Conference with Real Property Negotiator
Government Code Section 54956.8
Property Address: Los Angeles Assessors Parcel # 7574-020-900
City Negotiator: City Manager
Negotiating Parties: County of Los Angeles
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
No closed session was held.
ADTOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the City Council, Mayor Black adjourned the meeting at
9:25 p.m. to the next regular meeting of the City Council scheduled to be held on Monday,
September 24, 2007 beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Approv
James Bla
Mayor
Minutes
City Council Agenda
09/10/07
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Kern
Deputy City Clerk
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