Tag Archives: Diamond Bar City Council

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie H. Kim

Diamond Bar – Mayor Steve Tye began the Aug. 4 City Council meeting with a presentation for Diamond Bar’s own Alex Morgan, a Diamond Bar High School graduate, 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist, and a member of the 2015 US Women’s World Cup Championship team.

Morgan’s “talent and determination took her from Diamond Bar’s park fields to the Olympic soccer fields,” Tye said, and announced that the Council has been in touch with Morgan and are currently planning a celebration with her in person. In the meantime, over 60 banners will be placed around the City in her honor, with special photo opportunity places for citizens to take pictures of themselves next to the banners and spread the hashtag, #DBLovesAlexMorgan over social media.

James DeStefano, the Diamond Bar City Manager announced that in the month of June, the Walnut Valley Water District reduced water use by 29%, exceeding the governor’s mandate that water use be reduced by 25% from 2015 through February 2016. Although specific numbers have not yet been released for Diamond Bar, DeStefano was able to determine through the City’s water bill that water reduction is at 55%.

Pui-Ching Ho, manager of the Diamond Bar Public Library, then addressed the Council to announce several educational events, including a workshop on using the library’s online learning programs on Aug. 19, and a workshop on new ways to store and file pictures on their phones or other devices on Aug. 29.

Afterward, the schedule of future events was read, announcing the last two Concerts in the Park/Movies Under the Stars. Aug. 5 will feature Cold Duck (70s Top 40) and Alice in Wonderland from 6:30 to 8 p.m.; and Aug. 12 will feature Surfin’ (Tribute to the Beach Boys) and Finding Nemo, also from 6:30 to 8 p.m.  Both events will be held at Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive.

The Planning Commission Meeting on Aug. 11 at 7 p.m. is facing cancellation due to lack of quorum. The Traffic and Transportation Commission Meeting will occur on Aug. 13 at 7 p.m., in the Windmill Community Room, and the next City Council meeting will occur on Aug. 18.

The Council approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the City Council meeting on July 21, the Planning Commission meetings of May 26 and June 23, and the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting of June 25; ratification of check register totaling $954,300.44; and Treasurer’s Statement for the month of June 2015. The Council also adopted a resolution to support the Inland Valley Humane Society’s goal to eliminate euthanasia of healthy and adoptable dogs and an ordinance to expedite the permit process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.

The Council concluded the meeting with reports and comments, and adjourned with plans to meet again on Aug. 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the AQMD Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Diamond Bar: City Council Nomination Period

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Tues., Nov. 3, 2015 is the date of the next General Municipal Election, with two seats opening on the Diamond Bar City Council. The nomination period started on Mon., July 13 and will end at 4:30 pm on Fri., Aug. 7.

If an incumbent does not file by the deadline, the close of the nomination period will be extended to 5:30 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 12.

To qualify to run for City Council, potential candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a registered voter and resident of Diamond Bar.

For more information, to request a nomination form, or to schedule a sit-down appointment with the City Clerk to discuss the filing process and campaigning guidelines, call (909) 839.7010.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the first time in July following its Fourth of July holiday cancellation, for a short meeting of regular events.

To start, the Council presented a City tile to former Planning Commissioner, Peter Pirritano, for his three years of service to the City. Mayor Steve Tye congratulated Pirritano and thanked him for all of his hard work on the City’s commission.

Tye was accompanied on stage with Senator Bob Huff’s Senior Field Representative, Jody Roberto, and Assemblywoman (and former Diamond Bar City Council member) Ling Ling Chang, who also gave their thanks to Pirritano for his time serving the City.

“This is kind of a sad moment for me,” Pirritano said. “I’ve been involved in so many things in Diamond Bar and I’m hoping to keep doing some of the things I’ve been involved in. I’m just so thankful and grateful and thank all of you for allowing me to serve the City.”

The Council then gave a proclamation that July 2015 be recognized as Parks and Recreation Month, and also presented a certificate to 123 Rakuya, located at 21076 Gold Springs Dr., as the July 2015 New Business of the Month.

Next, the Council read its schedule of future events for a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on July 23 at 7 p.m.; a Planning Commission meeting on July 28 at 7 p.m.; a Concert in the Park event on July 29 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. featuring Last Chance at Sycamore Canyon Park; a Movies Under the Stars event on July 29, following the concert at Sycamore Canyon Park; and the next City Council meeting on August 4 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on its consent calendar, which included the minutes for the June 16 City Council meeting; the March , April  and May 24 minutes for the Parks and Recreation Commission; the minutes for the May 14 Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting; the ratification of a check register dated June 11 through July 15 totaling $3,599,235.67; the Treasurer’s May 2015 statement; the award of contract to Doctor Playground, Inc. for the removal of playground surfacing at Heritage and Peterson Parks in an amount not to exceed $79,925.42, plus a contingency of $7,993 for unexpected conditions from the Park Development Fund; an approval of contract with Regional Chamber of Commerce San Gabriel Valley for the fiscal year 2015-16 in an amount not to exceed $12,000; an adoption of a resolution approving the design and plans for the construction of the Reagan and Peterson Park parking lot rehabilitation project; an award of contract to E.C. Construction Co. for a total authorization of $497,131.30; an approval of expenditures with Diversified Printers, Inc. for printing services in an amount not to exceed $69,304.40 for fiscal year 2015-16; an approval of Contract Amendment No. 1 with Onward Engineering in the amount of $15,970 for professional engineering services to provide plans, specifications and engineer estimates for the Morning Canyon Roadway rehabilitation project; and the approval of expenditures with Simpson Advertising, Inc. for specialty graphic design services in an amount not to exceed $71,762 for fiscal year 2015-16.

The Council also performed the first reading of an ordinance adding Chapter 1504 to Title 15 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code to provide an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.  The Council approved the first reading and would hold the item’s second reading during the next meeting in two weeks.

After the Council was finished with all of its items and discussions, they adjourned with plans to meet on Aug. 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Dr.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met once again last week for its remaining June meeting, which included naming a new Business of the Month, extending the City’s landscaping services, and denying a hotly debated conditional use permit allowing T-Mobile to build a new wireless telecommunications facility at 1355 Maple Hill Road.

To begin, Mayor Steve Tye congratulated Haggen, located at 240 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., as the new business of the month. Tye and the City Council members were joined on stage with the new supermarket’s manager, thanking him and the organization for bringing its business to Diamond Bar.

A presentation was given about Haggen, outlining the corporation – which is from the northwest, and expanding into the west.  In the last six months, the company has purchased 146 storefronts to bring specialty items, including organic and gluten-free products, into new areas.

After the Business of the Month award, the Council was given an update by Los Angeles County Fire Department Assistant Chief, Troy Flath, regarding the recent Tonner Canyon fire exercise, and an overview of the Department’s involvement in the Napal earthquake recovery.

The schedule of future events was then read to include the Planning Commission meeting on June 23; the next Concert/Movie in the Park on June 24, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., featuring Southland Band/“Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day,” both at Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on June 25; Independence Day City offices holiday closures from July 3 through July 6; 4th of July Blast, 5 to 9 p.m., at Diamond Bar High School; cancellation of the next City Council meeting on July 7; the July 8 Concerts/Movie in the Park featuring The Kings 88/”Maleficent” at Sycamore Canyon Park; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on July 9; the Planning Commission meeting on July 14; , the July 14 Concerts/Movie in the Park featuring Stone Soul/”The Box Trolls” at Sycamore Canyon Park; and finally, the City Council meeting on July 21.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes for the June 2 City Council and May 12 Planning Commission meetings; ratification of check register dated May 28 through June 10, totaling $299,901.49; contract extensions for the Community Services Department; award of contract to AmeriComp Group Imaging, LLC, for printer service and toner in an amount not-to-exceed $90,000 for the period of July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2018; award of contract to Ameritech Business Systems, Inc., for copier service in an amount not-to-exceed $50,000 for the period of July 1, 2015 through June 20, 2018; award of consulting services agreement to Comdyn Group, Inc., for as-needed information technology services in an amount not-to-exceed $250,000 for the period of July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2020; the approval of maintenance services agreement with Woods Maintenance Systems, Inc., DBA Graffiti Control System, to provide graffiti removal services for the fiscal year 2015/2016 with an option for four one-year extensions; approval of the execution of the first amendment to the Memorandum of Understanding with Los Angeles Gateway Water Management Authority for the implementation of the watershed management program and coordinated integrated monitoring program for the lower San Gabriel River watershed group; approval to deny the appeal and affirming the Planning Commission’s decision to deny a conditional use permit to T-Mobile to install a new wireless telecommunications facility; and the adoption of a resolution approving a five year enterprise agreement with Microsoft Corporation through Compucom, for software licenses in an amount not-to-exceed $100,000.

And finally, the Council adopted a resolution approving a tentative tract to subdivide air space for a 10-unit warehouse condominium located at 614-646 Brea Canyon Road.

After the Council member’s reports and comments, the meeting adjourned with plans to meet on July 21, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza The Diamond Bar City Council congratulates members of the Diamond Bar High School Badminton Team for winning its fourth consecutive championship.

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
The Diamond Bar City Council congratulates members of the Diamond Bar High School Badminton Team for winning its fourth consecutive championship.

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met on Tues., June 2, with a regular agenda of presentations, a reading of future events, numerous action items and a public hearing concerning a new wireless telecommunications facility.

The meeting was started off with a presentation to the members of the Diamond Bar High School badminton team for winning their fourth consecutive championship.  Mayor Steve Tye congratulated the 14 team members in attendance for their hard work and continuing the proud lineage of the school’s team.  Tye offered his congratulations to not only the members but also Head Coach Kemp Wells, who promised to bring a fifth championship next year.

“What could be harder than winning once?” asked Tye. “Winning twice. What could be harder than winning twice? Winning four times. You have a winning program, congratulations.”

The second presentation was to David Matsukiyo and Matthew Chen for being “Report for Reward” recipients, meaning that their information led to making Diamond Bar safer from crime.

Tye and the Council then presented a City tile to Kaiser Permanente’s Diamond Bar offices and proclaimed the hospital as “Business of the Month” for June 2015. Tye thanked them for their years of service to the City and wished them well in their continued business.

“We are grateful that Kaiser Permanente has chosen Diamond Bar and we look forward to your future expansions,” Tye said.

The schedule of future events was then read off to include a pop-up City Hall on June 4 at the Diamond Hills Plaza, at 2825 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; the Planning Commission meeting on June 9; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on June 11; and the next City Council meeting on June 16.

The Council then approved all items on its Consent Calendar, including the minutes for the study session and regular meeting of the May 19 City Council meetings; the April 9 Traffic and Transportation Commission; the April 14 Planning Commission; the ratification of check register dated May 14 through May 27 totaling $1,494,739.50; the Treasurer’ April statement; the approval of the first amendment to the consultant services agreement with ECS Imaging, Inc., extending the contract term through June 20, 2016 in the approved not-to-exceed amount of $87,000; the approval of the first amendment to the consultant services agreement with Sytech Solutions, Inc., extending the contract term through June 30, 2016 at a cost of $40,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $140,000; the approval of Amendment No. 4 to the contract with Valleycrest Landscape Maintenance to extend the term of the contract from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016 to provide landscape maintenance services at nine city parks, the grounds of the Diamond Bar Center, the football field and slope at Lorbeer Middle School and the Mesa Trail/Trailhead at Sycamore Canyon Park in the amount of $368,995 each fiscal year and as-needed work in the amount of $25,000; an approval of adjourning the June 16 City Council meeting to July 21; a resolution calling for the holding of a general municipal election to be held on Tues., Nov. 3, for the election of certain officers as required by the provisions of the laws of the State of California relating to general law cities; a resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the county of Los Angeles to consolidate a general municipal election to be held on Nov. 2, with the school elections to be held on the date pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code; a resolution adopting regulation for candidates for elective office pertaining to candidates statements submitted to the voters at an election to be held on Nov. 2; the approval of supplemental appropriations of $559,591 into the fiscal year 2014-15 building fees revenue accounts, and $233,547 into the fiscal year 2014-15 building and safety contract services expenditure account to fund the payment of RKA Consulting Services invoices; approval of professional services agreement with David Evans and Associates, Inc., to provide landscape plan checking services for three fiscal years (2015-16 through 2017-18) with an option for two one-year extensions; authorization for the City Manager to enter into a three-year agreement with the Los Angeles Gateway Region Integrated Regional Water Management Joint Powers Authority to share the costs for installation of monitoring equipment and monitoring pursuant to the Harbor Toxic Pollutants total maximum daily loads for a total amount not to exceed $30,000 for the term of agreement; and a resolution adopting the statement of investment requested by the finance department.

After the Consent Calendar, the Council approved two consideration items, including an appointment to the Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority Advisory Committee, and the approval and adjustment of City Council appointments.

The Council then moved onto its only public hearing item, denying the appeal and affirming the Planning Commission’s decision to deny a conditional use permit for a request to allow the installation of a new wireless telecommunications facility consisting of 12 panel antennas, three remote radio units and a 24-inch diameter microwave dish antenna on the 65-foot high artificial tree and associated above-ground equipment cabinets (from T-Mobile) within a 220 square foot enclosure at Maple Hill Park.

The reason for the denial, as stated by the Planning Commission, was that the antenna would obstruct the park’s views and take up too much space – and that a large number of residents agree with the decision.

Several representatives from T-Mobile spoke during the meeting, asking the Council to appeal the Planning Commission’s decision and allow the construction of the structure and antenna. The representatives claimed that without the new antenna, the City’s T-Mobile customers would have a significant lack of coverage. Furthermore, the representatives stated that the structure and antenna would not have any adverse effect on Maple Hill Park or the City’s residents.

Throughout the speeches, the council members disagreed with the T-Mobile representatives, stating that the addition of this extra antenna and structure should not be considered a “necessity” to the City and that mobile phone users are not facing coverage burdens as of yet.

Some 20 residents also spoke during the public hearing, listing dozens of reasons why the antenna and structure should be denied.

After the speeches were over, the City Council members voted to deny the conditional use permit, blocking the construction of the new structure and antenna.

Following the public hearing item, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on June 16, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza City Council members proclaim May 2015 to be Water Awareness Month to encourage limited water use during the drought – shown with (L-R) Walnut Valley Water District President Ted Ebenkamp, Scarlett Kwong, Barbara Carrera, Edward Hilden and Allen Wu.

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
City Council members proclaim May 2015 to be Water Awareness Month to encourage limited water use during the drought – shown with (L-R) Walnut Valley Water District President Ted Ebenkamp, Scarlett Kwong, Barbara Carrera, Edward Hilden and Allen Wu.

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the final time during the month of May for a regular meeting on the eve of the commencement of the Grand Avenue Beautification project construction.

Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Lyons was absent from the meeting.

To begin, the Council proclaimed May 2015 as “Water Awareness Month,” to better encourage residents to conserve water as California continues to limp through its worst drought in many years.

Walnut Valley Water District President, Ted Ebankamp, and several other WVWD members joined the Council to accept the proclamation, while Ebankamp warned that the whole state must cut 25 percent of its water usage to help in such a dire times. He also mentioned that heavy fines will be enforced for residents and businesses breaking recently enacted and ongoing water conservation statutes.

Mayor Steve Tye handed out the award and noted that having several WVWD members in attendance willing to be vocal about the drought was of great “importance,” and that we must all continue to conserve in all the ways that we can. Ebankamp said as of right now each resident uses an average of 148 gallons of water each day and must be willing to cut that number by 25 percent.

The calendar of future events was then read to include the closure of City offices on Mon., May 25 in observance of Memorial Day; the next Planning Commission meeting on May, 26 at 7 p.m.; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on May 28 at 7 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting on June 2 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on its Consent Calendar, including the City Council minutes for the May 5 study session and regular meeting; the ratification of check register dated Apr. 30 through May 13 totaling $709,488.87; the appropriation of $199,503 for gas tax funds to the fiscal year 2014-15; and adopt a resolution approving plans and specifications and establishing a project payment account and construction contract award for the Area 3 Residential and Collector Road Maintenance Project to All-American Asphalt, Inc. in the amount of $1,488,000, with authorization of a contingency amount of $111,600 for contract change orders to be approved by the City Manager; authorization for the City Manager to execute a contract with Go-Live Technology, Inc. for professional services in an amount not to exceed $75,000 for the period of July 1 through June 30, 2016; award of a design and construction management services contract to Iteris, Inc. for traffic signal infrastructure upgrades in the amount of $88,790, plus a contingency amount of $9,000 for change orders to be approved by the City Manager; the appropriation of $39,000 from the vehicle maintenance and replacement fund, and award of bid to Fritt’s Ford of Riverside for the purchase of two 2015 F-150XL and one Ford F-250 XL from the fiscal year 2014-15 auto equipment replacement fund in the amount of $78,682.55; the approval of an additional amount of $40,000 for professional services with Simpson Advertising, Inc for specialty graphic design services for the fiscal year 2014-15 in an amount not to exceed $120,400; the adoption of a resolution approving the application for grant funds from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District for the 2015 Countywide Competitive Grant Program for the Sycamore Canyon Park Stream Realignment Project; and approval of the Youth Employment Plan required by a grant to adopt a resolution setting a Proposition 4 appropriations limit for fiscal year 2015-16 in accordance with the provisions of Division 9 of Title 1 of the Government Code.

The Council then moved on to the only item for the Public Hearing section of the meeting, concerning increasing fees for lighting and landscape districts 38, 39 and 41. Council Member Jimmy Lin excused himself from a portion of the public hearing since he is a resident of one of the areas in question.

According to a report for the Council and residents, the City needs to increase additional levy rates to districts 38, 39 and 41 because of heavy maintenance and landscaping in the areas. For ten years, the City has absorbed fee increases at the expense of the general fund budget, and they are now asking residents in these areas to accept the new increases. Several members came out to speak against the increase of these fees, calling the fee spike “unfair” to residents who are facing financial hardships.

However, Council assured the residents that they have enjoyed a decade of lowered fees, and the City has spent $760,000 in general funds; further spending could lead to a deficit.

The Council then approved the levying assessment and rate increases as follows:  District 38 will get a $15 fee increase per parcel: District 39 will get a $236 fee increase per parcel; and District 41 will get a $220 fee increase per parcel – which will put all rates on the same level as they were when Diamond Bar was first incorporated in 1989.

After the Public Hearing section was over, the Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 6:30 p.m. on June 2 at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council held its first official meeting of the month on Cinco de Mayo, with an agenda involving the city budget, sick leave regulations and the Multi-Year Capital Improvement Fund.

The meeting started off with a reading of the City’s schedule of future events, with a Planning Commission meeting on May 12, the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on May 14, and the next City Council meeting on May 19.

The Council then approved all items on its Consent Calendar, which included the minutes for the City Council study session on Apr. 21; the regular meeting on Apr. 21; the Planning Commission on Mar. 24; the ratification of the check register dated Apr. 16 -29, totaling $1,196,918.49; the Treasurer’s Statement for the month of May; the acceptance of work performed by Tamang Electric for the construction of the generator enclosure project at Diamond Bar City Hall; and the approval of Amendment No. 3, to increase additional work authorization from $25,000 to $35,000 for fiscal year 2014-15 in contract with Valleycrest Landscape Maintenance to extend the irrigation system at Pantera Park to irrigate trees at the dog park.

The Council also approved its consideration items, with Items 8.1a, b and c having a significant financial impact on the City’s upkeep, City official salaries and benefits.

Item 8.1 a was pertaining  to the approval and adoption of a budget for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016, to include maintenance and operations, special funds and capital improvements and appropriating funds for accounts, departments, divisions, objects and purposes. The cost of the estimates resources at $27.1 million with appropriations of $26 million for projects like Capital Improvements to rehabilitate roads and parks, increase economic development, and even electronically converting some of the City’s documents and records.

Item 8.1b established a compensation plan incorporating salary ranges and fringe benefits for all classifications of employment effective June 27, 2015; while Item 8.1c amended Resolution No. 2008-34 for the City’s personnel rules and regulation Rule VII for sick leave effective May 5, 2015.

And finally, Item 8.2 was to receive and file the fiscal year 2015-16 through 2019-20 Multi-Year Capital Improvement Program to ensure Diamond Bar’s public infrastructure improves in the coming years. The estimated cost for street maintenance, traffic management, transportation infrastructure projects, public works improvements and parks and recreation improvements total more than $44 million through the next five years, but was put in place to ensure that as California grows, Diamond Bar matches its growth by remaining safe and accessible to its residents.

Following the last item and the committee reports, the Diamond Bar City Council adjourned with plans to meet on May 19, at 6: 30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, at 21865 Copley Drive.

New Diamond Bar Council Member

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar Council Members

Council members Jack Tanaka (L), Carol Herrera (R), Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Lyons and Mayor Steve Tye welcome Jimmy Lin as the City’s newest council member. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council kicked off its first meeting of the new year by not only shielding the City from prostitution dens from masquerading as massage parlors, but also by welcoming its newest councilmember, Jimmy Lin.

After having several weeks off because of Christmas and New Years Day, the Council met on Jan. 6 with its first major action being the announcement that Lin, a former Diamond Bar Planning Commissioner, would take over for Ling Ling Chang.

Chang was elected to the California State Assembly during the November General Election and left the vacancy open for new candidates. To circumvent a costly election – estimated at $150,000 by Mayor Steve Tye – the Council decided to fill the vacant seat by interviewing candidates.

Tye said Lin was chosen out of 11 other candidates for having an exceptional background in public involvement, entrepreneurial skills and professional aptitude.  Lin said he felt very privileged to be selected as Chang’s replacement and to be able to serve the City and its residents.

“I’ve living in a lot of places in the world, over 60 different countries around the world,” Lin said. “But when I ended up (in Diamond Bar), I knew this was the place I would retire in. It’s such a livable city and I have devoted about eight years of my time serving as a volunteer for committees.  I pledge to give my best to not only sustain, but to enhance the quality of life in this city.”

After the appointment of Lin, Tye said the Diamond Bar City Council was back to “full strength.”

Following the announcement of Lin’s appointment, the schedule of future events was listed to include a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Jan. 8, a Planning Commission meeting on Jan. 13, Winter SnowFest on Jan. 17 and the next City Council meeting on Jan. 20.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes for the Dec. 16 Council meeting, the ratification of a check in the amount of $1,726,352.29, the treasurer’s November 2014 statement, the second reading and adopting of an ordinance amending the parking of motor vehicles in city parks, the exoneration of surety bond number CMS-244886 to complete grading improvements at 20405 Walnut Drive, the reduction of 55.6 percent of surety bond number 929590937 to complete in-tract street improvements for Willow Heights, the award of a professional consulting services contract for a pavement management system to Nichols Consulting Engineers in the amount of

$43,000 and the adoption of a resolution approving the final tract map for subdivision of Air Space for a 19-unit office condominium at 660 North Diamond Bar Blvd.

The Council then approved the only public hearing item, pertaining to the interim ordinance which temporarily prohibits the establishment, expansion or relocation of massage establishments in the City.

The ordinance, which will take effect for 45 days, is seen by the City as a way to limit possible prostitution dens, since massage parlors in Southern California have come under scrutiny for being hotbeds for illicit activities.

The Council then adjourned at 7:20 p.m. with plans to meet in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers at 21810 Copley Drive on Jan. 20.

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap 12.16.14

By Raymond Mendoza

 

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the last time in 2014 and members also had a chance to bid former councilmember Ling Ling Chang farewell, as she leaves the City to take a seat in the California State Assembly.

After an invocation by Pastor Mark Hopper, the City Council members thanked Chang for her service to the City, wished her luck in her new position and presented her with the Diamond Bar City plaque to recognize her departure.

“You served the City faithfully, you participated in a lot of regional organizations on behalf of the City of Diamond Bar, and you made us proud,” Councilmember Carol Herrera said. “As you move on to other bigger and better things, we hope you will remember us.”

After the presentation to Chang, the schedule of future events was listed including the free shuttle service to and from the Diamond Bar Shopping Centers from now until Jan. 1, the cancellation of the Dec. 23 Planning Commission Meeting and Dec. 25 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the holiday closures for the City offices on Dec. 24 and 25, the holiday tree curbside collection program from Dec. 26 through Jan. 8, the late night transit pass sale on Dec. 30, the New Year’s holiday City office closure, the Jan. 6 City Council meeting, the Jan. 8 Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting, the Jan. 13 Planning Commission meeting and the Winter Show Fest on Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pantera Park.

The Council then moved on to approve its entire consent calendar including the minutes for the Dec. 2 City Council and Oct. 28 Planning Commission meetings, the ratification of check register in the amount of $539,573.75 dated Nov. 27 through Dec. 10, the approved reduction of 98.28 percent of the Surety Bond to complete grading and erosion control improvements and full exoneration of a surety bond to complete in a tract private storm drain improvement, to accept work performed by Green Building Corporation for construction of the Grand View Trail and the Grand View Trail Link, and approving cooperative agreement for Bridge Preventative maintenance work on Chino Hills Parkway.

The first item on the Council’s public hearing listing was an ordinance relating to parking of motor vehicles in City parks, with a City report claiming that some people are using park parking to leave their vehicles for extended amounts of time.

After hearing the problems arising from local parks, the City approved the first reading of the ordinance, restricting the usage of park parking lots to residents who are using the park.

The second and final public hearing was the approval of the Community Development Block Grant Program allocation, including $23,875 in the fiscal year 2015-16 and $87,020 from the unallocated balance of funds for the total amount of $290,895.

The final item of the meeting was for Mayor Steve Tye to ratify the appointments of specific representatives to the San Gabriel Council of Governments, including the California Contract City’s Association, Foothill Transit Board, Corners Transportation Policy Group, Greater Los Angeles Vector Control, Joint Powers Insurance Authority, LA County Sanitation District and others.

The Council approved the appointments and officially adjourned at 8:12 p.m. with its next meeting scheduled to take place on Jan. 5 in the Windmill Room of City Hall at 7 p.m.

 

New Mayor: Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met Tues., Dec. 2 for its regular meeting, which saw a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem appointed to serve the City for the next year, and the Council considerations to fill the vacancy left behind when council member Ling-Ling Chang joined the California Assembly.

The Council appointed Steve Tye as the new Mayor of Diamond Bar, with Nancy Lyons appointed as the City’s Mayor Pro Tem.

After the appointments, former Mayor, Carol Herrera, gave an outgoing presentation, as Tye presented her with a gavel to commemorate her service. Tye, Lyons and council member Jack Tanaka thanked the outgoing Mayor for her dedication and congratulated her on completing her fifth mayoral term in office – a feat that Tye said has not been accomplished in Diamond Bar’s history.

“It’s been my very great pleasure to be Mayor this particular last year since it was the City’s 25th Anniversary and there were so many memorable events,” Herrera said. “I just feel very privileged to have been able to be the Mayor this year.”

Following Herrera’s presentation, City Manager James DeStefano gave a presentation for the City’s windmill dedication. DeStefano called the windmill an “icon of historical significance” based on the City’s agricultural history.

After the presentation, the City’s schedule of future events was listed to include the Holiday Diamond Ride for free shuttle service to and from the Diamond Bar Shopping Centers through Jan. 1, 2015; the Planning Commission on Dec. 9; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Dec. 11; the City Council meeting on Dec. 16; cancellations for the Parks and Recreation meeting on Dec. 25 and Planning Commission meeting on Dec. 23; City office closures on Dec. 24 and 25; holiday tree curbside collection program on Dec. 26; and the Late Night Transit Pass sale on Dec. 30 at 7 p.m. at Diamond Bar City Hall.

The Council then approved all items on its consent calendar, including the minutes for the City Council meeting on Nov. 18 and the Parks and Recreation Commission on Oct. 23; the ratification of a check register totaling $1,392,233.64; the Treasurer’s monthly statement for October; the approval of plans and specifications and establishing a project pavement account, waive bid irregularities, and award construction contract for the 2014-2015 Community Development Block Grant Area 2 Sidewalk Installation Project to TSR Construction and Inspection in the amount of $124,420 and a contingency amount of $31,105; and the approval for the updated Sanitary Sewer Management Plan.

The Council’s public hearing item concerning the prohibition of medical marijuana dispensaries in Diamond Bar was continued from the Nov. 18 City Council meeting due to a lack of votes needed for approval.

And the final item of the City Council agenda was the consideration for the open seat vacated by councilwoman Chang, which would need to be filled within 60 days of Dec. 1. DeStefano said the council members must either appoint a new council member, or hold an election to fill the vacancy until Chang’s term is up in November 2017.

Since an election would cost tax payers approximately $150,000, the council members were keen on appointing a candidate based on applications from Diamond Bar residents.

“I think it makes greater sense to accept applications starting today (Dec. 2) through Dec. 19…,” Herrera said. “We’ll take what we got and I would almost venture to say that there would be a lot of applications.”

Newly minted Mayor Tye said he was certain that the Council would receive an ample amount of applications for the vacancy and that saving money for the City would be in the best interest of all Diamond Bar residents.

“I’m leaning toward appointing someone to fill the position because of the high costs for a special election,” Tye said. “People elect us to make difficult decisions, so I think we should interview candidates and appoint someone ourselves.”

The City Council members then approved a motion to accept applications through Dec. 19 for the position, conduct candidate interviews, and hold a special City Council meeting before Jan. 30, 2015 to select the new council member.

The Council then adjourned with plans to meet on Dec. 16 at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

 

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar City Council members met for the final time in November for a regular meeting, but were unable to extend the City’s ordinance to prohibit medical marijuana dispensaries because of a lack of voting members. Council members Ling-Ling Chang and Jack Tanaka were absent from the meeting.

To start, Mayor Carol Herrera presented Ted Robinson, owner of Robinson Properties, with the Business of the Month Award for November 2014. Herrera cited Robinson’s years of service to the community and local economy as the reason for his recognition.

Following Robinson’s recognition and public comments, the Council listed the City’s future events for the Walnut Valley Water District Public Meeting on Nov. 19, the Historic Windmill dedication on Nov. 20, the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Nov. 20, the Grand View Trail opening on Nov. 22, the Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 25, the City closures during Thanksgiving on Nov. 27 and 28, the Holiday Diamond Ride – which gives free shuttle rides to and from Diamond Bar shopping centers from Nov. 28 through Jan. 1 – and the City Council meeting on Dec. 2

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar including the minutes for the Nov. 4 study session and Nov. 4 regular meeting, the Oct. 14 Planning Commission meeting, a ratification for a check register totaling $783,157.58, transmittal of a comprehensive annual financial report for the year ending June 30, approval of a contract amendment with Fehr and Peers for an intersection improvement strategies study at Grand Avenue/Diamond Bar Boulevard and Brea Canyon Road/Pathfinder Road in the amount of $14,670 plus a contingency amount for $2,000, and the approval of a contract amendment with RKA Consulting Group for preparation of an application package in association with the 2015 Metro Call for projects in the amount of $19,800.

The Council’s only public hearing item was an ordinance extending urgency Ordinance No. (03)2014 suspending Chapter 8.26 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code and prohibiting the operation and establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries.

According to City Manager, James DeStefano, the Council could not approve the item, since the passage required a 4/5 vote. Since Council Members Chang and Tanaka were not present, DeStefano recommended that the item be carried over to the Dec. 2 City Council meeting. The Council then approved the motion to move the item to its next meeting.

Following the Council’s reports and comments, they adjourned at 7:20 p.m. with plans to meet on Dec. 2 in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers at 21810 Copley Drive.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Recap Nov 4

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – While state-wide elections were on the minds of most Californians, the Diamond Bar City Council kept its discussions local with its latest meeting on Tues., Nov. 4.

After an invocation by Worship Pastor, Jeremy DeFriend, and public comments from attending residents, the Council delved into the reading for its future event schedule.

The schedule included a Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 5 at the Diamond Bar Center, the Veterans Day holiday on Nov. 11, a cancelled Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 11 because of Veterans’ Day, a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Nov. 13, a Heritage Park Rehabilitation public workshop on Nov. 13, an Eco Expo on Nov. 15, the next City Council meeting on Nov. 18, the Walnut Valley Water District public meeting on Nov. 19, the Windmill Dedication on Nov. 20 at the Diamond Bar Towne Center, and the Grand View Trail opening on Nov. 22 at 1600 Grand Avenue.

The Council then went on to approve the items on the agenda, including the minutes for a study session on Oct. 21, a regular meeting on Oct. 21, the Planning Commission on Sept. 9, the Parks and Recreation Commission on Sept. 25, the ratification of a check register in the amount of $1,327,948.87, the Treasurer’s Statement for September 2014, Amendment No. 4 for the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority for the State Route 60/Lemon Avenue Partial Interchange project, the authorization and approval of the $450,000 sale of Proposition A funds to the City of Industry, and the award of a contract in the amount of $36,202.41 to Interior Office Solutions for the purchase and installation of office furniture at City Hall from the General Fund reserves.

The Council then discussed its only public hearing item for adopting a resolution confirming a cost report for nuisance abatement costs concerning 427 N. Platina Drive. A presentation by Community Development Director, Greg Gubman, outlined that the property at 427 N. Platina Drive is considered a public nuisance because of its overgrown vegetation and dilapidated state. Gubman said the property owners, after failing to improve the site after months of warnings, were subject to City intervention which cleaned up the property for a total cost of $3,624.63 to the owner. Gubman also issued a $100 citation to the property owner and said the City would be keeping an eye on the property to see that it remains within City codes.

The Council then approved the resolution concerning the nuisance abatement.

The final item of the evening appointed Surendra Mehta as the Traffic and Transportation Commissioner.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet on Nov. 18 in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met on Tues., Oct. 21, for a regularly scheduled meeting, covering topics for a land and water conservation fund grant, bus shelters, and the Grand Avenue Beautification Project.

After public comments, the schedule of future events was read, outlining a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, a time capsule dedication, a planning commission meeting, a Halloween Haunted House at Heritage Park, the Fall Fun Festival on Oct. 31 at Heritage Park, the next City Council meeting on Nov. 4, a Veterans’ celebration on Nov. 5, and the City’s observance of Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11 (when all City offices will be closed).

The Council then uniformly approved all items on the consent calendar concerning the minutes for City Council meeting on Oct. 7; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on June 12 and July 10; the ratification of a check registered for $834,087.05; a Resolution approving the application for $153,346 for the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for the Silver Tip Park Trail and Trail Head; the utilization of Federal funds in the amount of $1,032,964 for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project; the second reading and adoption revising the City’s purchasing system; an agreement with Clear Channel Outdoor to extend their franchise agreement for bus shelters in Diamond Bar for an additional seven years; and an award for the Professional Engineering Services Contract to Tait and Associates, Inc. for civil engineering design, construction administration/inspection and construction survey for the Ronald Reagan Park and Carlton Peterson Park parking lots rehabilitation project in the total amount of $120,685.

The meeting officially adjourned at 7:19 p.m., in memory of long-time Diamond Bar resident, Eileen Tillery, with plans to meet on Nov. 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at 21865 Copley Drive.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Recap October 7

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Diamond Bar – At their Oct. 7 meeting, the Diamond Bar City Council heard from the public and staff on various issues including updates on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, homelessness in the area, climate issues, development and water conservation, and more.

The meeting kicked off with a presentation of a City Tile to former Planning Commissioner, Jack Shah.

“You’ve done a great job. You’re moving on to other locations and we want to thank you for your service to the City of Diamond Bar, and we’re going to miss you,” said Mayor Carol Herrera.

“Thank you so much for your trust. You have trusted me for so many years and given me the opportunity to serve this community. It is one of the best communities I’ve lived in. The staff is great, they’ve always supported us and always provided us with great advice and always directed us in making the right decision,” said the departing Shah, who resigned his position effective Aug. 13.

As part of the evening’s consent calendar, Herrera appointed Jen “Fred” Mahlke to fill the vacancy left by Shah. During the City Manager portion of the meeting, Public Works Director, David Liu, presented an update on the Grand Avenue Project. Liu said project plans include upgrading the medians and parkways with special design elements to add visual interest and highlight some of the City’s local history, and pedestrian and access lighting. The locations discussed as part of the project include the intersections of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard.

According to Liu, on April 1, the staff presented final concept plans to the Council. Final designs for the plans were approved by the Council on July 1. Design plans and specs were then submitted to Cal Trans on July 30. Cal Trans notified the City on Sept. 10 that the plans and specs had been approved.

Liu added the City is currently working with a landscape architect to design and build a gateway monument at the easterly City limit line, along the intersection down Grand Avenue. Work is to be finished by early November, with a contract awarded in January 2015 including plans to finish in April or May of 2015.

During public comments, Theresa Lee, a member of the Country Estates Homeowners Association thanked City officials for providing residents with more information on the proposed Millennium Development.

Kurt Nelson, a consultant representing the developer, said he did not know why there was so much controversy and unhappiness about the project. Nelson added he did hear many people who seemed to be uninformed about the facts of the project. Nelson said he would be very happy to meet with any Diamond Bar Country Estate homeowners in the future to let them know about costs, and other concerns the association members might have.

“I think communication and getting the facts out there is key,” said Nelson.

In other matters, Stephen Fomba, Program Manager for the SGV Consortium on Homelessness – a non-profit organization dedicated to homelessness in the San Gabriel Valley – introduced himself to the Council and updated them on the homeless situation in the area.

Fomba, whose organization is tasked with conducting a bi-annual homeless count in the San Gabriel Valley, said all of L.A. County is moving to a coordinated entry system, using a tool to identify, assess and link homeless individuals and families with appropriate housing.

“It’s the best way toward ending homelessness in the U.S., by calling for the City to partner with them,” Fomba told the Council, adding that his organization will be coordinating a homeless summit in Pasadena on Nov. 13, and invited the council and community to attend.

Fomba said the summit usually attracts 500 to 600 attendees in Pasadena. The nonprofit also adopted a proclamation which other cities have already adopted in the SGV, asking for the establishment of a homeless awareness week in mid November to coincide with the national homeless and hunger awareness week.

Other members of the public asked for the Council to provide an update on issues such as water conversation, climate issues and development, asking if the City could look into bringing in smaller businesses for people to congregate, and get together, as opposed to big corporations and retail chains like K-Mart. To this end, a new Facebook group known as Diamond Bar Buzz has been put together for people in the City to discuss these social issues.

City Manager James DeStefano, said the City has specifically cut water usage by 23 percent in the last billing statement since formal drought conditions were adopted by the SGV Water District, and added that the City continues to look at ways for individuals and local businesses to save water in light of pending water rate increases likely to take place in the near future.

De Stefano said that he agreed with speakers who asked for a center for community gathering.

“That is exactly the type of product we’d like to see in Diamond Bar. There are very limited choices in Diamond Bar. Land is the toughest component; we just don’t have a lot of land and we don’t have willing property owners of existing properties that are interested in tearing down and starting again, redeveloping those properties. We have some choices on some vacant lands, but those are also a challenge,” said DeStefano.

In other actions, by a 4-0 vote (with Jack Tanaka excused for illness), the Council approved a packed consent calendar including the ratification of a check register totaling more than $2 million approving contract amendments for on-call traffic engineering services from various consultants, and approving a notice of completion for the Median Modification project on Diamond Bar Boulevard at Kiowa Crest Drive, among other matters.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is scheduled for Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the AQMD/Government Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive. There will also be a time capsule dedication on Sat., Oct. 25, at 4 p.m., at the same location.

 

 

Diamond Bar: City Council Recap Sept 16 Meeting

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.

Diamond Bar – Local homeowners are angry over the Millennium Development. At their Sept. 16 meeting, the

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Diamond Bar City Council heard from members of an exclusive gated community consisting of 751 home sites and more than 800 homeowners. They are concerned with an ongoing development project which dates back to 2005, which residents say was not properly advertised by City officials and could result in environmental hazards, as well as disturbances to homeowners adjacent to the construction.

At an informational meeting held on Sept. 9, City officials presented information to residents on the Millennium Tentative Tract 53430 project, a residential development of 48 single family custom lots inside the gates of the Country Estates on 80 acres at the terminus of Alamo Heights Drive and along Horizon Lane.

Although the City granted approvals for a conditional use permit, tree permits and an Environmental Impact Report to the developers, Millennium Road Partners, a geotechnical report, as well as on and offsite stability assessments of the site are currently under review, according to documentation made public by City officials.

Members of the Homeowners’ Association spoke during the public portion of the council meeting voicing concerns over the project. Citing the possible wear and tear of streets, noise and pollution, and the danger of heavy vehicles losing control on hillside streets, City officials were accused of arbitrarily granting the tentative tract map without considering the proper impact, and of not properly notifying all the association members.

“Eight plus years later, and many [homeowners] are just finding out they have been hoodwinked by the City that refers them back to a Board of Director which knows little or nothing about this development,” said association member Cassandra McGuiness.

“It is time to readdress this tentative tract map. Eight plus years have seen much change in protecting habitat for humans and plant life. The cost to the homeowners will be staggering and we are not prepared to support staggering costs,” said McGuiness.

Mayor Pro Tem, Steve Tye, overseeing the meeting for the absent Mayor, Carol Herrera, said, “I think it’s important for people to understand that this City Council (or any previous City Councils) didn’t hoodwink anybody.”

Other members said many questions had yet to be addressed, including a switch from a 26-foot wall along Alamo Heights Drive to two 15-foot walls, and how the development would geographically affect the location of the wall as well as the debris basin.

City Manager, James DeStefano, said the City held a meeting on Sept. 9 to inform residents about the details of the project and received feedback from them. “This project was processed over many years; it was noticed to 180 property owners in late 2005 into early 2006. The project was advertised and discussed in multiple public meetings at the time,” he said.

Association members speculate the development is being revisited as a result of a healthier real estate market, as well as the resolution of other complications facing the developers.

DeStefano added, residents and homeowners were notified of the project and were engaged in the planning, and members of the Association’s board knew about the project as far back as ten years ago when signs were posted on the property and advertisements were carried out as required.

“Back in 2005-06, the Planning Commission advised the City Council that the wall heights should not exceed 15 feet,” DeStefano said in reference to the retaining wall.

City officials indicated there was a substantial turnout for the informational meeting held Sept. 9, with more than 250 people in attendance. The purpose was to provide residents information to help them understand the project. DeStefano said the City is moving through all the questions they received in writing and will respond to them accordingly.

“The more we learn about this, the more we realize it’s a disaster,” said Association member, Michelle Yi. “The City of Diamond Bar owes us, every one of us should have been notified,” she said, adding that the area was a region that didn’t lend itself to development because of the disruptions to wildlife and other regional impacts.

In other matters, the Council was informed by Public Works Director, David Liu, that the City was notified that a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant (TIGER) was awarded to Diamond Bar by the federal government in the amount of $10 million for the 57/60 freeway confluence construction project.

According to staff, the program was created by the 2009 Economic Stimulus Bill, which allows states and cities to apply for funding for transportation projects that have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or a region.

Liu said the application process was an incredibly competitive process. This is the sixth year of the grant program, and the City’s second try in pursuing this grant. $600 million in grant dollars were appropriated in the current grant cycle. 72 projects were selected from the U.S. Department of Transportation, with grants awarded from applications in 49 states. Liu added that the award validates the project as a national priority.

The grant will be matched with $4.5 million in Los Angeles County MTA funds, $10.6 million in City of Industry funds, and $9.4 million in federal funds – for a total of $34.5 million – to be used for the ongoing project. The funds will be used to implement the first three phases of the project to accelerate the congestion relief, starting in early 2016.

“The folks that travel that every day probably would attest to the fact that it is the seventh most congested interchange in the United States,” said Mayor Pro Tem Tye. “It will get worse before it gets better, but now we know that the funding is there and it’s on the horizon to get better.”

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is on October 7 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

 

 

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner Aug. 19th Meeting

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar – September Declared National Preparedness Month

 

The Diamond Bar City Council Meeting on Aug. 19 began with the council presenting Chief Stone, of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department, a proclamation for September to be declared as National Preparedness Month in the City of Diamond Bar.

As Mayor Carol Herrera presented the proclamation, she stated that it was very important to be prepared and that the City of Diamond Bar is joining the nation-wide coordinated effort each September to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and schools. Herrera stated that public awareness is important and that this month is to persuade individuals to take action to be prepared, such as creating an emergency supply kit that contains items that will allow families to survive for at least two weeks in the event of an emergency.

After the proclamation, Chief Stone gave a presentation on Brush Fire Safety, where he showed a video of the L.A. County Fire Department’s program, “Ready, Set, Go!” This program shows residents how to prevent a fire, prepare for a fire, and what to do during a fire. For more information about this program, visit fire.lacounty.gov.

During Public Comments, a variety of concerned residents addressed the council about the Millennium Development Project, which is located near the County Estates. They addressed concerns for health, location, and other issues on why they think the development should be moved. The City Manager addressed the issue, but suggested having a meeting between the residents and the City to go over the project, and talked about how that would come about.

Another issue that was addressed during the public comments section was the City election date. A resident asked the council if they would consider moving the date to even-numbered years.

The City Council also informed the community that the City offices will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Sept. 1, and the City Council Meeting for Sept. 2 is canceled.

During the consent calendar section of the meeting, the council approved the following items with a 5-0 vote:

  • City Council minutes of the study session and the regular meeting of Aug. 5.
  • Ratification of the Check Register dated July 31 through Aug. 13, 2014, totaling $863,770.76.
  • A contract with ECS Imaging, Inc. in the amount of $87,000 plus a contingency of $5,000 for a total contract amount of $92,000 for the purchase of the Laserfiche Avante Document Management System and related professional services, which includes staff training, and the appropriation of $100,000 from General Fund Reserves.
  • Contract Amendment for existing on-call Civil Engineering Services with Onward Engineering to perform a comprehensive parkway drainage curb analysis, for a variety of raised curbs in different areas of the city. The cost of this project would be $22,680 with a contingency authorization of $4,000.
  • A Resolution which approves the application for $153,346 of Habitat Conservation Fund Grand Funds, which if awarded, requires a $153,346 match from the City for the Silver Tip Park Trail and Trail Head.

In the Public Hearing section, the Diamond Bar City Clerk talked about the adoption of a resolution which will amend the City’s Conflict of Interest Code for designated City Personnel and rescind Resolution No. 2012-36 in its entirety. The Council motioned to approve this resolution with a 5-0 vote.

Finally, presentations were given on the following items, and the council took them in consideration:

  • Diamond Bar Ride Program modifications and adoption of the updated program rules and regulations.
  • Adoption of a Resolution approving the City of Diamond Bar Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which will authorize the Mayor to sign the letter promulgation and direct staff to provide a copy of the approved plan to the State of California Office of Emergency Services.

After the Council sub-committee reports, meeting attendance reports, and council member comments, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next City Council meeting will take place on Sept. 16, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, located at 21865 Copley Drive.

Diamond Bar: Council Corner

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR

 

Diamond Bar City HallDiamond Bar – During the July 15 meeting, the Diamond Bar City Council addressed a light agenda calendar which included a discussion of the following steps for three of the City’s Lighting and Landscape Assessment Districts (LLAD), approval of minutes from a study session regarding updates to the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, and ratification of an expenditure totaling more than $1 million in City funds for green building construction, legal consultants and health insurance benefits, among other items.

In a written report made public by City Manager, James DeStefano, he stated the purpose of the July 1 study session was to provide the City Council with more details on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project. According to the report, the concept was first discussed with the Council in April. Since that time, the Public Works Department team has been designing the project and preparing for construction.

Upon City Council approval, the project will go to Caltrans for review, after which it will move to the design and construction phases. 53 residents attended an open house earlier this year to review the concept plans and give input on what the community wanted to see as part of the final design. Some of the votes of elements for the final design included decorative traffic signal poles, the diamond shape representative of the City, and interlocking pavers in parkways and medians.

The Public Works Department staff reported that all improvements presented during the study session totaled about $1.5 million with available resources at $1.7 million. There is no general fund money committed to the project according to Public Works Director, David Liu. Staff estimated the project to begin in October after all the design plans and specs are sent to Caltrans for their review, which could take up to three months to complete.

In other actions, the Council approved the recommendations from its Lighting and Landscape Assessment District subcommittee and consultants from SCI (experts in the field of assessment engineering and levy administration related to LLAD) to discuss options to reduce ongoing general fund subsidies to the districts. The districts primarily maintain public rights-of-way, medians and parkways throughout the City, consisting of mini parks, slopes and open space areas totaling 60.45 acres, and small turf areas located primarily in the southwestern side of the city including the Ronald Reagan Park neighborhoods and Brea Canyon cut-off, among other areas, respectively.

Council members lauded City staff and members of the Parks and Recreations Department for their work on the City’s 4th of July Celebration, which included 25 minutes of fireworks to commemorate the Diamond Bar’s 25th Anniversary.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council takes place on Aug. 5 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner July 1, 2014

By Ariel Carmona, Jr.

 

Diamond-bar-city-council

Diamond Bar City Hall (Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar)

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council held its regular meeting on July 1, approving a light consent calendar which included ratification of a check totaling over $1 million for two weeks worth of expenses for various items, the consideration of an ordinance relating to the amendment of speed limits on city streets, and heard from a resident concerned with what she called a rash of untamed dogs in the neighborhood during the public hearing portion of the meeting.

Cathy Patterson, a Diamond Bar resident since 1980 and a teacher at Walnut Valley Unified for the past 29 years, said she and her dog were attacked by a neighbor’s dogs from across the street when they were out walking on Fri., June 27.

“The larger of the two dogs knocked us both down and then proceeded to bite me severely on the leg, requiring many stitches,” said Patterson, adding that the dog’s owner called off his dogs after he heard her screams.

Patterson said it has come to her attention that over the years the problem of dog owners not being attentive to their dogs has grown and has become an issue that the City needs to address.

“There are several dog owners in the area who do not properly care for their dogs, some by walking them off leash, and some dogs are allowed to roam freely out of sight from their owners during their walk. I’ve even been confronted by at least three different dogs right as I opened my own front door. Some do not have properly fenced yards so the dogs get out on a regular basis, and there are at least four that I know off who are unable to control their animals,” Patterson told the council.

Patterson said following her attack and after receiving medical attention she wanted to report the incident to the Walnut Sheriff’s Station and the Inland Valley Humane Society. According to Patterson, she felt both agencies chided her for not taking more responsibility, for calling 911, and suggesting she might have provoked the attack herself.

Diamond Bar City Manager, James DeStefano, said he was very interested in Patterson’s presentation and said he was going to work with her and City staff to learn more details about the interaction with the Sheriff’s Department and the Inland Valley Humane Society.

In other council actions, a consent calendar was unanimously approved 5-0, and included an item to ratify a check register dated June 12 through June 25 for a total of more than $1 million, as requested by the City’s finance department.

According to information made public by the City and Finance Director, Dianna Honeywell, the City allowed payments for the 13-day period to cover expenses including more than $215,000 for computer equipment hardware and I.T. services, more than $7,000 in environmental impact consulting services, and more than $82,000 in Metrolink pass subsidies.

According to the report presented to the council by the finance department, “All payments have been made in compliance with the City’s purchasing policies and procedures.” The expenditure totals more than $1 million in City funds.

The council also approved an ordinance that will go into effect on Aug. 1 which allows City staff to update speed limits throughout the City as required by the California Vehicle Code (CVC) – which updates its speed zone study every seven to 10 years. The last study conducted by City staff occurred in 2004.

Upcoming Diamond Bar events include the Concerts in the Park Series performance of The Skinny Little Twits rock band at Sycamore Canyon Park on July 19, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., and a showing of the movie, Frozen, immediately following the concert.

The City Council will next meet on July 15 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

Diamond Bar Council Courner June 17th Recap

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR. 

Diamond-bar-city-council

Diamond Bar City Hall (Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar)

Diamond Bar – In a mid-year report to the City Council during their June 17 meeting, Captain Jeffrey Scroggin and members of his staff at the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station reported that overall, crime is down substantially in the City; and down 30 percent thus far in 2014, with theft-related crimes down more than 35 percent. Scroggin attributed the reduction in crime statistics to newly implemented programs, including a Special Problems Team consisting of deputies dedicated to address crime trends, ongoing neighborhood and business watch programs, and the City’s recently implemented rewards programs where residents are paid for providing tips leading to arrests of criminals in the area.

Scroggin said crimes reported to the FBI Uniform Crime Index in Diamond Bar include criminal homicide, forcible rape, burglary and arson. He added that crimes against persons are slightly up this year, but the numbers are still comparatively very low. There were 21 assaults in 2014 as opposed to 17 in 2013.

According to Scroggin, 12 of the assaults involved domestic violence. “Those are really situations we can’t control as a policing agency; that is in the home, but you can see that over half of our assaults involve some type of domestic violence,” he said.

There were three victims of rape in 2014, only one more than in 2013. “The rapes are very important crimes to us because that is such a violent act. I can report that we’ve had no stranger rapes, where someone’s been kidnapped off the street. All of our rapes have some type of association between the victims and the suspect,” said Scroggin. He added, “We are concerned with all rapes, obviously, because they’re a very bad crime, but we have had nothing where someone’s been walking in the park and assaulted in that manner, so we are very proud of that.”

Scroggin said the number one crime the department fights on a daily basis are crimes against property, such as robberies, burglaries and theft. There were six robberies this year, down from 16 last year. The department reports that residential burglaries are down more than 50 percent, with 50 fewer burglaries than last year. The Sheriff’s Department attributes the reduction to more arrests with more units patrolling the day shift.

Even though commercial burglaries are up slightly, 1.79 percent, theft-related crimes are down more than 35 percent. They are the single biggest contributor to the overall crime rate, including vehicle burglaries, petty and grand theft auto. Grand theft auto is down more than 50 percent, with only 19 cars reported stolen this year. There was also only one reported incident of arson.

“We’re a bedroom community, we don’t have a lot of violent crime, we don’t have a lot of gang crime, we don’t really have a lot of crimes that shock the conscience, but we do have those residential burglaries and thefts from the vehicles. In order to keep this downward trend we really need the entire community to take action, be mindful of their homes and their vehicles,” said Scroggin.

In other matters, the Council approved a packed consent calendar which included the approval of a contract with the Regional Chamber of Commerce, contract extensions for the Community Services Department, and the approval of an amendment to the vendor services contract with a consultant to extend the janitorial and building maintenance services for the Library, City Hall, the Diamond Bar Center, and the Heritage Park Community Center.

Councilmember Lyons asked for clarification for the amendment which added to the janitorial services contract for the Library for an annual amount of $43,325, since the facility is being operated by the County of Los Angeles. City Manager James DeStefano said the maintenance fee is for a three-year term. The fee was negotiated as part of a process in which the City looked at what it would cost to operate a new library which was physically two to three times larger than the existing library.

DeStefano added that the City negotiated that County would pick up all labor costs to support the new library, and the City would pick up the maintenance costs to assure that the facility remained at the standard the City holds for all of their other properties. “This was basically a trade-off of the maintenance costs for the labor costs that they would incur, and it worked well for us,” he said.

In other Council actions, they held public hearings on levying landscaping assessments for three lighting and landscape districts throughout the City. The Council also adopted a resolution approving the 2014 Citywide Speed Zone Survey, and approved a first reading of a an ordinance to amend the Diamond Bar Municipal Code regarding speed limits specified in City streets.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is set for July 1, at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, located at 21865 Copley Drive in Diamond

Diamond Bar: Council Corner 05.20.14

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR

At the May 20 meeting, Diamond Bar’s City Council approved and adopted – by a 3-1 vote – a budget for the new fiscal year which included funds for maintenance and operations, special funds and capital improvements, and appropriated funds for its various departments with estimated resources totaling more than $25,000,000.

“You continue on a path of prudent use of resources with expenditures within your budget, within the amount that you can afford. Your resources have gone slightly up, anticipated expenses are slightly down and therefore at the end of the new fiscal year, we anticipate reserves increasing by about $100,000 over that which was presented by staff previously,” said City Manager, James DeStefano.

According to a staff report presented to Council by DeStefano and Finance Director, Dianna Honeywell, budgeted revenues for fiscal year 2014-15 are expected to be up about .9 percent from the previous fiscal year’s projected revenues. The City collected “one-time” revenues related to the sale of property commonly known as “Site-D.” Also known as the Willow Heights Project, Lennar Corporation is in the process of developing the gated residential community consisting of 182 dwelling units on a 30-acre site located on the southeast side of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Brea Canyon Road.

The City has scheduled a public meeting for May 29 at 7 p.m. at Heritage Park Community Center, located at 2900 S. Brea Canyon Road, to explore with residents the issues of park improvements, and other concerns regarding the Willow Heights development project.

Included in the budget are property tax revenues estimated at $4,182,000, other taxes and fees, and the use of general fund balance reserves for the appropriations of capital improvement projects estimated at $1,090,369; $315,242 is estimated for economic development and an increase to the law enforcement contract by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department of 2.6 percent, totaling $6,124,000, among other items.

There is also a two percent cost of living adjustment in the employee’s benefit allotment incorporated in the budget. The COLA increase results in a total of $156,000 in additional personnel costs to the City, $142,000 of which has a general funds impact, according to City staff reports.

Mayor Carol Herrera, prior to passage of the budget, said in her opinion, the Diamond Bar Dial-A-Ride program’s costs were way out of control, with the City spending $575,000 annually She feels this is taking away from transportation dollars needed to maintain the City’s roadways. She added that the audit subcommittee would like to see a reduction in that budget area sometime in the future. The Lighting and Landscape Assessment District subcommittee also wanted to see a reduction in expenses and Herrera asked City staff to come up with a plan to produce reductions between $100,000 and $200,000.

During the City Manager report portion of the meeting, DeStefano praised the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s efforts to reduce crime in the City.

“I am very pleased to report that there has been a 30 percent drop in crime from 2013 to 2014 in the year to date crime rate,” Stefano said. “The City dropped in all crime categories with varying degrees of reduced crimes in all areas, including robberies and property theft. That again is the result of the leadership of the station as well as the Sheriff’s Department in general; I am sure Diamond Bar residents are encouraged by that.”

In other Council actions, they approved an amendment to a consultant services agreement with a firm to provide architectural design services for a generator enclosure structure at City Hall, approved an expenditure of $54,600 to purchase banquet chairs for the Diamond Bar Center, and approved its multi-year capital improvement by a 4-0 vote (councilmember Lyons was absent).

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is on June 3 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, at 21865 Copley Drive.