02-11-19.pdf NIINUTES OF
A REGULAR MEETING
OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS,CALIFO1tNIA
MONDAY,FEBRUARY 11,2019
1. CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by Mayor Wilson at
7:03 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 2 Porluguese Bend Road,Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Black,Dieringer, Mirsch,Pieper and Mayor Wilson.
Councilmembers Absent: None.
Others Present: Elaine 7eng, P.E., City Manager.
Mike Jenkins, City Attorney.
Yolanta Schwartz,Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Don Crocker, 14 Cinchring Road.
Helen Frykman, 10 Crest Road West.
Kathleen Hughes, 13 Caballeros Road.
Sharon Minkes, 44 Chuckwagon Road.
Deborah Richie-Bray,Architect, 15 Georgeff Road.
Alfred Visco, 15 Cinchring Road.
3. OPEN AGENDA-PUBLIC COMMENT WELCOME
Kathleen Hughes, 13 Caballeros Road, commented that she spoke to the City Council in 2013 after she
was bitten by a dog and requested that a leash law be adopted. Ms. Hughes stated that the City Council
did not support a leash law at that time. She indicated that she was severely injured by the dog who lives
next door and spoke on the City's no leash law. Ms. Hughes stated that two weeks ago the same dog bit
her elderly and blind neighbor. Ms. Hughes would like a response from the City on why there is no leash
law.
Mayor Wilson responded that the City has�strict enforcement capability related to animal complaints.
Ms. Hughes indicated that she believed this was the third incident because another elderly neighbor was
knocked down by the same dog. Ms. Hughes further stated that the incident she had with the dog was
frightening.
City Manager Jeng stated that she spoke to the resident who was bitten and the owners of the dog. She
spoke on the City's process and indicated that the City is currently investigating the incident.
Councilmember Black spoke on the City's process. He stated that typically the Los Angeles County
Animal Care and Control would make a field visit, order the dog confined to its property, and if the
owners did not comply, then the dog would be removed from the City. Councilmember Black questioned
why the dog has not been removed from the City since this is the second incident.
City Manager Jeng responded that she is currently researching the City's animal complaint records.
Ms. Hughes commented on the gate that is closed at Crest Road East near Eastfield Drive. She stated that
she would like to see another way to get out of the City in an emergency.
Mayor Wilson responded that the gate' falls under the purview of the Rolling Hills Community
Association(RHCA).
City Manager Jeng stated that evacuation routes will be discussed at the upcoming Block Captain
meetings.
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Sharon Minkes, 44 Chuckwagon Road, spoke on fire prevention. She stated that she lives on a cul-de-sac
with no exit from Eastfield Drive to the end of Chuckwagon Road and that her property has canyons on
both sides. She provided photographs of her surrounding neighborhood and expressed concern with the
hazardous condition of the canyons with respect to dry brush. Ms. Minkes inquired with the RHCA
regarding the ownership of the canyons and was informed that the canyons belong to individual owners.
Ms. Minkes stated that it is difficult to determine the property lines. Ms. Minkes stated that she would be
trapped if a fire were to occur.
4. 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 consideretl untler Council
Actions.
A. Minutes — 1) Regular Meeting of February 12, 2018; and 2) Regular Meeting of January
28, 2019.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
B. Payment of Bills.
RECOMMENDATION: Approve as presented.
C. Republic Services Recycling Tonnage Report for December 2018.
RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file.
Councilmember Black requested that Consent Calendar Item No. 4.B.be pulled for separate consideration.
There were no objections.
Councilmember Dieringer requested that a correction be made to the January 28, 2019 Regular Meeting
Minutes on page 19 as follows: In the second paragraph, last line, remove the word "the" after "work."
T'here were no objections.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council approve the items on the consent calendar, except
Item No. 4.B., as presented. Cou.ncilmember Pieper seconded the motion,which carried without objection
by a voice vote as follows:
AYES: COiJNCILMEMBERS: Black,Dieringer,Mirsch,Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COIJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
Councilmember Black requested clarification on Consent Calendar Item No. 4.B, Check Number 25740,
as the description states it is for a special event.
City Manager Jeng explained that the check description is an er'ror and should not be listed as a special
event. She stated that staff will ensure that the correction is rnade on future invoices.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council approve Consent Calendar Item No. 4.B. as presented.
Mayor Pro Tem Mirsch seconded the motion,which cazried without objection by a voice vote as follows:
AYES: COiTNCILMEMBERS: Black, Dieringer,Mirsch,Eieper and Wilson.
NOES: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
5. COMMISSSION ITEMS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-02. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSI4N OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT TO CONSTRUCT A 660 SQUARE FOOT DETACHED GARAGE AND
VARIANCE TO ENCROACH WITH THE GARAGE AND WITH A RESIDENTIAL
ADDITION INTO THE REAR SETBACK, IN ZONING CASE NO. 952 AT 2
CHUCKWAGON ROAD, LOT 38-A/38-BEF. (KIRMSE/GALVIN).
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Mayor Wilson called for the staff report. Planning Director Schwartz stated this item is a request for a
Conditional Use Permit to construct a 660 square foot detached garage, Variance to encroach with the
garage and a residential addition into the rear setback at 2 Chuckwagon Road. She sta.ted the Planning
Commission (PC) unanimously adopted a Resolution at their last meeting finding that the project is
compatible with the neighborhood, is reasonably sized on the lot and finding that the lot is constrained in
size because it is a corner lot and bounded by two 30'-wide roadway easements and that the proposed
project will retain the undisturbed topography of the remaining of the lot, not giving the lot a built out
character. Planning Director Schwartz stated that no comments were received from the surrounding
residents and that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
� Mayor Wilson opened public comments. There being no public comments, Mayor Wilson closed public
comments.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council receive and file Planning Commission Resolution No.
2019-02 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 952 at 2 Chuckwagon Road.
Councilmember Pieper seconded the motion.
Councilmember Dieringer commented on differences in both PC Resolutions that are presented on this
meeting's agenda and referred to page 11, Section H, of the Resolution for 2 Chuckwagon Road and page
15, Section G, of the Resolution for 15 Georgeff Road. Councilmember Dieringer requested that Section H
of the Resolution for 2 Chuckwagon Road be modified by adding the underlined language as follows: "The
stxuctural net lot coverage shall not exceed 5,204 square feet or 16.3% in conformance with lot coveraf:e
limitations (20% max. permitted). The tota.l lot coverage proposed(structural and flatwork) shall not exceed
8,411 square feet or 2b% in conformance with lot covera�e limitations (35% max. permitted)."
Councilmember Dieringer stated that this language would make it clear that the 20% maximum permitted in
parenthesis and the 35% maximum permitted in the second parenthesis is referring to the lot coverage
limitations not to what the homeowner could do in terms of the marcimum permitted.
City Attorney Jenkins advised the City Council that because this is a decision made by the PC, the City
Council has two options as follows: 1) Accept the Resolution as is or 2) Take the matter under jurisdiction,
� schedule a public hearing and then consider the matter de novo.
Councilmember Mirsch stated that she does not support taking the matter under jurisdiction.
City Manager Jeng sta,ted that staff will be consistent with the Resolution language going forward.
The aforernentioned motion carried without objection by the following voice vote:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Black,Dieringer,Mirsch, Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COiTNCILMEMBERS: None.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2019=01. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GR.ANTING APPROVAL FOR VARIANCES T4
CREATE A PARKING PAD WITHIN 30 FEET OF THE ROADWAY EASEMENT
AND CONSTRUCT A TR.ASH ENCLOSURE WITHIN THE FRONT YARD SETBACK
IN ZONING CASE NO. 948 AT 15 GEORGEFF ROAD, LOT 29-GF, {LAURA
HATCH).
Mayor Wilson called for the staff report. Planning Director Schwartz stated this item is a request for a
modified driveway to accommodate a new parking pad and relocation of the trash area. She further stated
that the improvements and new trash area require variances due to location. Planning Direetor Schwartz
� stated that one Planning Commissioner did not see the need for additional parking and voted against the
project; however, the remaining Planning Commissioners found that this project will not negatively affect
the neighborhood and will improve maneuverability on site. She stated that no comments were received
from the surrounding residents and that the applicant submitted their justification for their request.
Mayor Wilson opened public comments.
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Deborah Richie-Bray, Architect, 15 Georgeff Road, spoke on why the extra parking is needed due to
additional vehicles in her clients' family and that the request is to provide more usable space. She further
stated that the properry is very steep in the rear and there is no other access.
Hearing no fiu-ther comments, Mayor Wilson closed public comments.
In response to Councilmember Black's question, Ms. Richie-Bray clarified that the existing concrete will
be removed and replaced with pavers.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council receive and file Planning Commission Resolution No.
2019-01 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 948 at 15 Georgeff Road.
Councilmember Pieper seconded the motion.
In response to Mayor Wilson's question, Planning Director Schwartz stated that a special condition
regarding recreational.vehicles was added to the Resolution as a reminder to the applicant that parking for
recreational vehicles is prohibited on the new parking pad.
Councilmember Dieringer questioned page 17, Section AD,pertaining to perimeter easements. She stated
that it was her understanding that a determination was made not to include this provision in future
Resolutions unless it was needed.
City Attorney Jenkins advised that Councilmember Dieringer's concern regarding the perimeter easement
provision could be brought up under matters from the City Council to be considered for discussion at a
future City Council meeting.
The aforementioned motion carried without objection by the following voice vote:
AYES: COLTNCILMEMBERS: Black,Dieringer,Mirsch, Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 8.30 FIRE FUEL ABATEMENT OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
MUNCIPAL CODE.
Mayor Wilson called for the staff report. City Manager Jeng presented a summary of the staff report as
follows: 1) As directed by the City Council at the last meeting, a draft ordinance is proposed for the City
Council's consideration; 2) Proposed language was added to Chapter 8.30.010: Dead or alive
tumbleweeds, shrubs, palm fronds or other plants; 3) A new section 8.30.015 was added: 8.30.015
Applicability. - This Chapter shall apply to the entirety of each parcel of property located within the
boundaries of the City except for the following areas: 1) slope area approximated to be steeper than 2
units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50% slope); and 2) the entire slope area comprising of more than 65°10
of slopes approximated to be steeper than 2:1 ratio.; 4) According to the Los Angeles County Department
of Agriculture Commissioner/Weights and Measures (LACDACWM) and their experience in abating fire
fuel on slopes, slopes greater than 2 (units horizontal) to 1 (unit vertical) present accessibility issues and
unsafe conditions; 5) LACDACWM does not have a firm rule on the 2:1 slope; thus, they rely on the
feedback from their field personnel on the safety of the slopes; 6) There are variations on the slope ratio
within the hills of the city that could fluctuate presenting spot locations much greater or much flatter than
the 2:1 ratio; and 7) Staff is proposing several slope conditions to assist residents in complying with the
amended Chapter 8.30.
City Manager Jeng noted that correspondence was received from resident Alfred Visco.
Mayor Wilson opened the public hearing.
Alfred Visco, 15 Cinchring Road, commented that he submitted a letter to the City Council. Mr. Visco
stated that he agrees that dead palm fronds should be removed; however, he feels there should be some
consideration given to certain palm trees that are not safe and feasible for removal of fronds due to the
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height and location of the tree. He stated that in his letter he proposed language to address this issue. Mr.
Visco further stated that in his letter he proposed alternative language related to the slope ratio.
Councilmember Black commented that his concern regarding slopes is that he would like to ensure that
property owners are required to clear out their property near the trails to allow for egress without requiring
them to clear the steep areas.
Discussion followed regarding brush clearance of steep properties and vacant lots.
Hearing no further comments,Mayor Wilson closed the public hearing.
City Manager Jeng provided additional feedback that she received on the proposed ordinance. She stated
that the purpose of this ordinance was to engage the residents to be mindful of fire fuel on their property
and to inform them that they should actively pursue the removal of fire fuel for the protection of
themselves as well as their neighbors. She stated that based on her understanding of the intent of the City
Council, the ordinance does not need to address specific conditions as it would be difficult to address one
condition and not another, and to determine the number of conditions to be captured. City Manager Jeng
stated that the intent is to engage the residents to remove what they can get to and to provide a dialogue
for residents to work with staff on any allowances on their property.
Councilmember Dieringer suggested adding language in Section 8.30.015 that would allow residents to
clear areas that are not steep and to add the following language: "Before engaging in fire fuel reduction
residents shall review and be guided by the advice outlined in best practices for fuel reduction on the
City's webiste to avoid erosion control and other problems associated with improper fire fuel abatement."
She stated that this language would alert residents that there are materials on the City's website so that
they do not unintentionally remove something that would not be a proper fire fuel abatement and possibly
cause other issues such as erosion.
Discussion followed among the Councilmembers regarding fire fuel abatement practices.
Mayor Pro Tern Mirsch expressed support of the proposed ordinance and thanked staff for preparing it.
She also thanked Ms. Minkes for her feedback regarding the brush in the canyons. Mayor Pro Tem
:� Mirsch clarified that the City Council is reviewing dead vegetation only and that the current ordinance
was kept broad intentionally and Mayor Pro Tem Mirsch stated that she agrees with adding palm fronds
and 50% slope to the ordinance.
Discussion followed among the Councilmembers regarding conditions that could require an exemption,
subjective ordinance language such as "safe" and"feasible", slope ratios, adding an appeal process section
and adding educational material to the website.
Councilmember Black suggested removing Section 2 of Chapter 8.30.015 of the proposed ordinance to be
modifed as follows: 8.30.015 Applicability. - This Chapter shall apply to the entirety of each parcel of
property located within the boundaries of the City except for the slope area approximated to be steeper
than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50% slope).
Councilmember Pieper concurred with Councilmember Black's recommendation stated that he would like
to keep the slope ratio sirnple.
Discussion followed among the City Council regarding the slope ratio, posting educational materials an
the City's website, erosion contxol and fire fuel reduction methods.
Councilmember Pieper moved that the City Council waive full reading and introduce for first reading
, Ordinance No. 360 —An Ordinance of the City of Rolling Hills, California Amending Chapter 8.30 (Fire
Fuel Abatement) of Title 8 (Health and Safety) of the City of Rolling Hills Municipal Code to Require
Clearance of Dead or Alive Tumbleweeds and Dead Trees, Shrubs, Palm Fronds, and Other Plants under
Certain Conditions within the City and to modify Section 8.30.015 as follows: 8.30.015 Applicability. -
This Chapter shall apply to the entirety of each parcel of property located within the boundaries of the
City except for the slope area approximated to be steeper than 2 units horizontal to 1 unit vertical (50%
slope). Councilmember Mirsch seconded the motion,which carried by the following voice vote:
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AYES: COLTNCILMEMBERS: Black, Mirsch, Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Dieringer.
ABSENT: COLJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
Councilmember Dieringer commented that she believes that a sentence should be added to the ordinance
to require proper fire fuel abatement and guidelines.
7. OLD BUSINESS
None.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 1233. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF ROLLING HILLS ADOPTING THE HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN.
Mayor Wilson called for the staff report. Planning Director Schwartz stated that the City's consultant
could not attend the meeting as planned. Planning Director Schwartz presented an overview of the Hazard
Mitigation Plan (HMP). In response to Cou.ncilmembers' questions from the presentation of the HMP at
the January 8, 2019 meeting, Planning Director Schwartz provided the answers as follows: 1) Whether
the adoption of the HMP would allow residents to receive FEMA funds more expediously than if the City
did not have an approved HMP - Answer: No. The HMP is not relevant to Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) funds for private property, and 2) If the City were to accept Federal funds
from FEMA for projects that are being applied for, would this jeopardize the City's private status -
Answer: No. Based on the City consultant's determination, this is not relevant as FEMA funds are eligble
for use on public property. She stated that a Resolution to approve the updated HMP is recommended for
the City Council's adopton.
Mayor Wilson opened the public hearing.
Don Crocker, 14 Cinchring Road, spoke on the fire section of the HMP. He offered the following ideas
for the City to consider related to emergency preparedness: 1) Each resident should have an evacuation
route plan on how to get out of the City; 2) There is overgrown vegetation at all the gates; 3) 2 gates are
locked and there should be a way for residents to unlock the gates in an emergency and not wait for first
responders; and 4)Add emergency notification sirens. Mr. Crocker stated that he sent an email to the City
Council.
Helen Frykman, 10 Crest Road West, expressed concern with the locked gates if a fire were to occur. She
stated that she would like to have a two way street be built on Crest Road East to provide residents with an
another exit out of the City. She suggested adding an emergency exit sign at the Crest Road East gate and
to place a lock cutter at the gate.
Hearing no further comments,Mayor Wilson closed public comments.
Councilmember Black thanked staff for preparing the HMP.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 1233 adopting the updated City
of Rolling Hills Hazard Mitigation Plan as presented. Councilmember Pieper seconded the motion.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Mirsch's question, City Manager Jeng stated that a discussion on the City's
evacuation plans will be discussed at future Block Captain meetings.
Mayor Pro Tem Mirsch noted that a correction should be made on page 22 of the HMP to update the
sentence that states that the only City owned structure is City Hall because the City owns other structures.
City Manager Jeng stated that page 22 of the HMP would be updated to reflect all the City owned
facilities.
The aforementioned motion carried without objection by the following voice vote:
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AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Black,Dieringer,Mirsch,Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COLTNCILMEMBERS: None.
B. CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS FOR
TRAFFIC SIGNING, STRIPING, AND PAVEMENT MARKIl�TG; AND AUTHORIZE
STAFF TO ADVERTISE FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS.
City Manager Jeng presented a suminary of the staff report. She stated that the item is a request for the
approval of the project specifications and to authorize staff to advertise for construction bids for traffic
signing, striping and pavement marking for the segments of Middleridge Lane North, Middleridge Lane
South, Williamsburg Lane and Lower Blackwater Canyon Road. She stated that these streets are to be
resurfaced by the RHCA in early February 2019. City Manager Jeng noted that a concern was received
regarding height of existing traffic control signs within the City as many of the signs are mounted lower
than 7 feet in length and to prevent any conflict with the bridle trials. City Manager Jeng discussed the
best practices of complying with the California Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
Councilmember Pieper requested that the striping company be provided with appropriate instructions on
how to stripe.
Mayor Wilson requested that the striping work be aligned properly at curves and centerlines and to
provide time for the striping to dry.
Councilmember Black stated that he is not in favor of adding more signs in the City and placing them at a
higher level. Councilmember Black further stated that he is not in favor of having the Traffic Engineer
inventory and recommend additional signs, raising signs to 7 'h feet or including reflective material. He
stated that he prefers less signs in the City.
City Manager Jeng stated that the request is not to add additional signs,but to bring the signs up to code in
the City. ,
Discussion followed among the Councilmembers and staff regarding signage, cost of the project and
pavement markings.
Councilmember Pieper requested that the limit lines be added at the downhill side of Portuguese Bend
Road at Middleridge Lane.
Councilmember Black moved that the City Council approve project specifications for the striping and
pavement marking, excluding update of traffic signs to code, and authorize staff to advertise for
construction bids. Councilmember Dieringer seconded the motion which carried without objection by the
following voice vote:
AYES: COITNCILMEMBERS: Blaok, Dieringer, Mirsch,Pieper and Wilson.
NOES: COLTNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSENT: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
ABSTAIN: COiJNCILMEMBERS: None.
9. MATTERS FROM THE CITY COUNCIL AND MEETING ATTENDANCE REPORTS
Councilmember Dieringer commented on the condition that was in the Resolution for Agenda Item S.B. -
15 Georgeff Road related to perimeter easements. She expressed that she believes the City cannot be
assisting a private entity concerning perimeter easements as the private entity has Covenants, Conditions
and Restrictions (CCRs)that can be enforced.
Councilmember Black stated that not every property has an easement condition on their property.
City Manager Jeng provided the background of the standard condition that was included in Resolutions of
planning projects and was discussed at the September 24, 2018 City Council meeting. She stated that the
language stated that the applicant shall not place anything in the roadway easement and that this
inclusion was requested years ago to be placed in the Resolutions by the RHCA. City Manager Jeng
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stated that at that time Councilmember Dieringer requested that the condition be removed and inquired
about the relationship between a RHCA lawsuit and the Resolution condition and if there would be any
consequences for the City if the condition was enforced by the City. City Manager Jeng indicated that the
City Attorney's office did an analysis of the condition and found there is no connection to the
lawsuit. She stated that the City Attorney redrafted the condition providing the authority to the Planning
Director to waive the requirements of this condition rather than to the RHCA, as it was stated in the
original condition.
City Attorney Jenkins advised that this matter can be agendized for discussion at a future City Council
meeting. He stated that he was uncomfortable with the delegation of authority to the RHCA as the
Resolution language states that property owners shall keep their perimeter easements free and clear except
as otherwise approved by the RHCA. He stated that a Resolution cannot have a City condition that can be
waived by the RHCA as the RHCA is a separate entity. He advised that the minutes should be reviewed
to confirm the City Council's direction. City Attorney Jenkins stated that he believed that the City
Council directed staff to review the matter to determine if the condition was legal. He indicated that he
provided a memo to all Councilmembers regarding his opinion on the matter and concluded that the
language could be improved upon by eliminating the reference to the "RHCA's authority waiving the
requirement" and replaced it with the "Planning Director's authority to waive the requirement."
Councilmember Dieringer commented that she believed that the City Council agreed to strike the
condition.
Councilmember Dieringer moved that the City Council agendize the matter for discussion at a future City
Council meeting. The motion failed for lack of a second.
By consensus, the City Council requested that the minutes be reviewed to determined the action taken by
the City Council at the September 24, 2018 City Council meeting.
The City Council requested that staff explore options with the RHCA to unlock the gates.
10. MATTERS FROM_STAFF
A. FIRE FUEL ABATEMENT ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES QUARTERLY UPDATE.
City Manager Jeng presented a summary of the fire fixel abatement enforcement activities and indicated
that an update will be provided quarterly. She reported on the following activities: 1) 7 remaining
properties were inspected by City staff from the initial list of 31 properties provided by the RHCA,
previously, 24 properties were inspected, 1 property was inspected by City staff as a result of a complaint-
based enforcement on dead vegetation, the property owner scheduled removal of a dead tree in
compliance with the City's request for removal; 2) 4 properties were inspected by 2 arborists and a City
staff inember to determine whether or not trees suspected of being dead were indeed fully dead, 4 Arborist
reports with recommendations related to tree care and/or removal were provided to the City, letters to the
property owners with the Arborist findings are being prepared, one property is outstanding and staff is
working with the owner towards compliance; and 3) A Code Enforcement Officer job description was
finalized and published on the City's website and Indeed.com, the City received 284 applications, City
staff reviewed all applications and narrowed it dovcm to 4 candidates for interviews, an outside panel
conducted interviews on January 31, 2019 with a second interview of the highest scored candidate held on
February 7, 2019, and staff expects to select someone within a week.
Discussion followed among the Councilmembers and staff on the status of the Code Enforcement Officer
position,the code enforcement process, status of properties, and current enforcement activities.
In response to Mayor Wilson's question, City Manager Jeng provided an update on the property owner
that scheduled removal of a dead tree in compliance with the City's request for removal.
Mayor Pro Tem Mirsch suggested that the residents who spoke on fire issues earlier in the meeting could
be provided with a copy of this staff report.
By consensus, the City Council received and filed the quarterly fire fuel abatement enforcement activities
report as presented.
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11. CLOSED SESSION
None.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the City Council, Mayor Wilson adjourned the meeting at 9:31 p.m.
The next regular meeting of the City Council is scheduled to be held on Monday, February 25, 2019
beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills,
California.
Respectfully submitted,
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Yve .e Hall
City Clerk
Approved,
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Mayor
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