Leaders Get A Raise, Committees Filled, And More

A RARE SHORT MEETING
The Costa Mesa City Council met last night in a meeting that finished before 9:30 - a rare occurrence - and accomplished quite a bit.

FOLEY LATE - TESTIFYING IN SACRAMENTO
Mayor Katrina Foley arrived more than an hour late to the meeting because she and Assistant to the City Manager, Dan Baker, had flown to Sacramento to testify on behalf of Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva's bill - AB 572 - which would place a State Enforcement Officer in Orange County to help manage the proliferation of Sober Living Homes.  When she arrived and subsequently provided a brief report we were told that there are 108 such licensed homes in the OC and 82 of them are in Costa Mesa!  She told us she actually offered office space in City Hall for the Officer if the bill passes.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Dan Goldmann thanked the City for their plans for a new Library, then bemoaned the lack of visionaries - like former Governor Pat Brown and President Dwight Eisenhower.  He observed that we should be looking for a way to purchase the land where the Fairview Developmental Center is located.

David Couch complained about the condition of a portion of Adams Avenue where a dirt path has not been improved despite frequent requests.  Public Services Director Raja Sethuraman later addressed this issue, citing improvements that are in the works.

Dorothy McNiff once again stepped up and complained about the parking situation at the Beach Pit BBQ restaurant next door to her home.  She cited the failure of the City to enforce the shared parking agreement with the old Paint Store, since gone and replaced by a Jiu Jitsu academy.  The approval of the permit for the Beach Pit BBQ - which apparently has also changed hands - was conditioned on a shared parking arrangement.

Dr. Richard Mehren, President of the Fairview Park Preservation Alliance, advised the council about a recent incident where a 4-wheel drive truck somehow made it's way into Fairview Park and drove through Vernal Pool #4, digging it up.  The truck apparently got stuck and a tow truck had to come pull it out.  Both vehicles are NOT permitted in the confines of the park.  He asked the City to more clearly delineate the vernal pools with fencing, and to pursue the miscreant and prosecute him to the fullest extent of the law.  He also asked that tow truck firms in the city be advised about the rules concerning Fairview Park.

Terry Koken quoted Councilman Jim Righeimer from a debate on Measure Y last year and ended by suggesting that he resign from the City Council.

Reggie Mundakis advised the council that the Fairgrounds Master Plan is being reviewed and observed that the Board had hired Ken Karns, VP, Operations, from Canada who has a background of  developing sites similar to the Fairgrounds and painted a specter of areas like The Forum and Staples Center.  She beseeched the City to remind the Board that the City has a say in what development happens on that site before they get too far down the road.

Gary Parkin praised Recreation Manager Justin Martin and Senior Center Administrator Yvette Aguilar for their hard work and professionalism in managing their areas of responsibility.  He also praised the organization that performs the Meals on Wheels delivery - he did a ride along recently.

A gentleman who's name I did not get observed that the homelessness is a regional problem.

Barrie Fisher addressed what she called the deplorable condition of the fundraising bricks that are part of the Veterans Memorial at Harbor Lawn Memorial Park.  She wondered who is responsible for keeping them in good condition and showed a few slides reflecting how bad they have become.

Al Melone brought us another Dog Park story, complaining about the water dishes which apparently may have become swimming pools for rats.  He was not a happy guy.

Steve Ray, Executive Director of the Banning Ranch Conservancy, stepped up to advise the council of the recent State Supreme Court decision regarding Banning Ranch.  He said the developers are apparently going to start all over again with another scheme to develop part of that property.  He told the council that his organization wants to buy the land and is looking for some support from The City.

An unidentified woman observed that single individuals CAN make a difference, then spoke on the Sober Living Home issue.  She said they are blooming all over town and demanded to know who put forth the recent changes to the Sober Living Ordinances - she got no reply.  She complained about the lack of Code Enforcement.  She chided Righeimer for not paying attention to speakers, but looking in his lap all the time, describing it as "really rude".

Mary Spadoni, addressing the plans for the renovation of Lions Park, described it as "Disneyland", indicating that such an extravagance is unnecessary.  She said she's OK with an improvement, but not a "Taj Mahal".  She expressed concern for the cost and the fact that if and when the Fairview Developmental Center becomes available The City may not be in a condition to try to purchase some of it.

John Stephens thanked Assistant City Manager Tammy Letourneau for all her efforts on the Library/Community Center issue.  He spoke about Foley's trip to Sacramento.  He also addressed the forum he and Councilman Allan Mansoor will be hosting on Thursday at Newport Mesa Church on Homelessness.  He said many subject experts will be on hand to let us know the current status and to listen to the residents.  That meeting begins at 6:30 at the church on the campus of Vanguard University, next door to City Hall.  He also told us that he, Mayor Foley and City Manager Tom Hatch will be traveling to San Antonio, Texas next week to visit "Haven for Hope", apparently a very successful homelessness effort that might be replicated locally.

Jim Righeimer spoke about Tuesday's Lions Park Meeting, observing it was long, but probably necessarily so for the many new commissioners (a not very subtle dig at Foley and her plan to sweep the commissions clean and start over).  He praised "previous councils" - the ones he was part of - for requiring 6.5% of the budget to be earmarked for Capital Improvements - like the new Lions Park project.  Citing the need for cooperation on the dais, he said, "We're not a 3-piece band, we're an orchestra."  I though it was amusing, since when he and Steve Mensinger ran they show the operated EXACTLY like a 3-piece band, showing no consideration for the minority on the council.  His level of jackassery never ceases to amaze me - even after all these years.  He also observed about Foley's trip to Sacramento, stating that "we are in Sacramento begging them to let us pay for one of their inspectors to come to Orange County."  He then affirmed that Costa Mesa is a "rule of law" city and wondered to Hatch whether the City needs to affirm that in writing to someone in Sacramento.

Allan Mansoor spoke of the Homelessness Forum Thursday.  He asked Hatch to investigate the Adams Avenue issue for Mr. Couch and investigate the Harbor Lawn Brick issue.  He joined Righeimer in affirming that Costa Mesa is a "rule of law city".

Sandra Genis addressed the truck in Fairview Park issue and asked that tow truck operators be made aware of the policy about vehicles in the park.  She expressed concern about probable cost overruns for the Lions Park project, then observed that we may even need another library.  She also observed that Civic Center Park - on Fair Drive across the street from Police Headquarters, could handle a two-story, 20,000 square foot library with parking for 150 cars.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Three items were pulled for separate discussion - #2, #4 and #7.  Item #6 had been removed from the Consent Calendar earlier.  The balance was approved, 5-0. (Foley had just arrived in time for that vote).  Each of the pulled items were discussed by the unidentified person who pulled them and each was passed, 5-0.

COIN HEARING FOR SENIOR MANAGERS
Public Hearing #1, the COIN hearing for the proposed labor contract between The City and the Costa Mesa Division Managers Association (CMDMA) and salary and benefits adjustments for unrepresented executives and confidential management classifications was conducted by Assistant City Manager Tammy Letourneau.  The staff report describes the recommended adjustments to salary ranges and changes in benefits.  Only one person spoke to this.  Al Melone said the "merit" element is missing.  Letourneau advised that many are reviewed by the City Managers, but the Division Manager's raises are automatic, based on the contract.  I've looked at this contract proposal and the changes they will mean.  This is crucial for us to remain competitive and, in many cases, the "raises" are offset by the additional contributions to the CalPERS plan by the individuals.  It was moved on to the second required hearing on April 18th on a 5-0 vote.

HELISTOP ON AIRWAY AVENUE
Public Hearing #2 is he request for a retroactive extension of the approval for a helistop on Airway Avenue, adjacent to John Wayne Airport.  Foley and Genis had voted NO on this the first time around.  The construction of the landing pad on the roof of an existing building was delayed due to the approvals necessary from all the various entities - the applicant described it as a "Catch 22" kind of situation.  Concern was expressed about the potential proliferation of such requests in the future.  Two members of the public spoke.  Terry Koken said, "Give them their heliport!"  An unidentified person said this is outside the airport footprint and could lead to expansion of John Wayne Airport in the future.  She observed that Disneyland has been trying to get the airport expanded and had made significant campaign contributions - including $27,000 to Righeimer.  Mansoor asked the applicant, "Why do you need it?"  The applicant said it would make for more efficient use of the helicopter, since it could take him 45 minutes or more to get from his office onto the airport grounds to his helicopter.  In fact, his helicopter is located a few dozen yards away from his office.  Mansoor wondered to Senior Planner Mel Lee if we are opening up the door to more such requests.  The applicant said he had no intention to sell his property to the airport.  Yeah, well....  Anyhow, the council passed the request for an extension on a 5-0 vote.  Righeimer asked staff to return with options for managing these type of requests - those involving multiple approvals from multiple agencies - to determine if some flexibility is necessary.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR FAIRVIEW PARK
New Business #1 involved the professional services contract with Endemic for a variety of services involving Fairview Park, including management in the interim until a Fairview Park Adminsitrator is hired.  After the discussion commenced Righeimer recused himself because he is currently renting a home that backs up to Fairview Park while his mansion in Mesa Verde is being built.  City Engineer Bart Mejia led the discussion, supported by the consultant, Barry Nerhus.  They spoke about the scope of the assignment and the possibility of enhancing it with a so-called MAPS element wherein birds are tracked.

Four members of the public spoke on this.
Terry Koken observed that Barry is not perfect, but is the cheapest.  He observed that he liked what he had to say.

Richard Mehren said Barry would do a great job and offered the volunteer support of his organization - the Fairview Park Preservation Alliance -  to assist in any way they can.

Young Joshua Snyder observed that Fairview Park is not a Nature Preserve and wondered about the funding.

Cindy Black, a member of the Fairview Park Preservation Alliance, said she was against the MAPS element, expressing concern for the stress such a program places on the animals involved.

During the discussion mention was made that "Pete Bloom" would be used during the MAPS element - Genis thought that was a good idea.  Mansoor moved the staff recommendation without the MAPS element.  It passed, 4-0.

PLACENTIA AVENUE MEDIANS
New Business #2, was the discussion of the proposed Placentia Avenue medians from Adams Avenue to Wilson Street.  Public Services Director Raja Sethuraman led this discussion, supported by landscape consultant Tom Munoz.  The plan basically involves different kinds of plantings - trees and shrubs - along that stretch of roadway to enhance the safety.  Drivers typically speed down that part of the road as it goes to and from Estancia High School.  Genis expressed concern about the trees blocking the views of the park.  Sethuraman suggested that, if that was a major concern, the number of the trees could be reduced by 50%.  Stephens was concerned about the public safety aspects and asked Police Chief Rob Sharpnack to opine on the issue.  He told the council that he was in favor of almost any plan that would calm the traffic in that section of roadway, observing that in recent years past they had officers assigned to ticket/warn drivers, many of whom were Estancia students.  He said that got them a lot of "attention".  I'm presuming he meant that officers may have stopped fast drivers that were known to some council members and they got grief for it.  Don't know for sure, but...

Seven members of the public spoke to this issue.
Al Melone didn't like it one bit.  He suggested, instead, the use of speed traps.

Robin Leffler didn't much like the use of the trees, citing the loss of views of the park which she described as "restful to the eyes and soul."  She suggested, instead, low plantings in the median, and the use of plants that are, in fact, native to OUR area, not just southern California.

Ralph Taboada observed that it's a good idea to slow traffic on that segment of roadway.  He also observed that there will soon be a traffic signal for the bike trail at the bottom of the hill which should contribute to slowing.  He suggested fewer trees.  And, he suggested that although much of this would be paid with grant funding, it's not "free money".  He wondered how much money the City will contribute.  Turns out, according to Sethuraman, the City will pay $650,000 for this project beyond the grant funding.

 Cindy Brenneman observed that we never saw a grant we didn't love and that Harbor Boulevard looks like something from Arizona.

Cynthia McDonald, a member of the Bikeway and Walkability Committee, said safety is always a concern and slowing down traffic is always a good idea.  She also suggested fewer trees  be used.

Rick Huffman, also a member of the Bikeway and Walkability Committee, supported the project, observing that it's not always easy to get grant funding.  He called this an important project.

Young Joshua Snyder said we should speed people up.

Righeimer moved to approve and thanked Raja for a great job.  He said, "I'm all for safety, but it's OK for something to look nice."  Well, of course it is, Jimbo.  We all know that since you and your pals changed the entry way to your neighborhood.... twice!  When the vote was taken it was for a project with fewer trees and it passed, 5-0.

COMMITTEE/COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
The final item on the agenda was New Business #3, the Appointments to various committees.  Amazingly, there were NO public comments on this issue!  Foley decided to have each council liaison nominate applicants, which could be affirmed by the council or amended as they chose.  I'll give you the shortest version of the results as I can.

Bikeway and Walkability Committee. (15 appointments)
Two-year Term
Alan Engard
Michelle Fay
Robert Graham
Michael Habitz
Dan Leibson
Andrew Levins
Scott Porterfield
Kari Nieblas Vozenilek

One-year Term
Jim Erickson
Richard Huffman
James Kane
Florence Martin
Cynthia McDonald
John C. Merrill
Ralph Taboada

This passed on a  5-0 vote

Cultural Arts Committee. (7 appointments - 6 plus one alt.)
All Terms 2 years
Kathleen Eric
Rocky Evans
Frank Guiterrez (alt)
Monica Morita-Hayden
Andrea Marr
Irma Ramirez
Tracy Taber

This passed on a 5-0 vote
Note:  Mayor Foley requested that this committee be expanded to 11 members.  This requires a separate authorization so it will be brought back to the council at the next meeting.  Current applicants will be encouraged to keep their applications in the mix, plus others will be considered.

Historical Preservation Committee (11 appointments - 9 plus 2 alt.)
Two-year Terms
Christopher Ganiere
David J. Gardner
Mary Ellen Goddard
Dave Goodman
Karen McKenna-Juergens

One-year Terms
Kristyn E. Kohut
John McQueen
Gary Parkin
Kari Nieblas Vozenilek

This passed on a 5-0 vote.
Note: Due to insufficient applications to fill all vacancies, this will also be re-advertised.

Finance and Pension Advisory Committee (11 appointments)
Two-year Terms
Robert Juneman
Wendy Leece
Richard Riva
Ralph Taboada
Anna Vrska

One-year Terms
James Fisler
Lee "John" Hinson
Al Melone
Nick Peterson
Tom Pollitt
Rebecca Trahan

This passed on a 4-1 vote, with Foley voting NO.
Note:  This took three (3) slices at it before the agreed configuration was reached.  It seemed like Foley was trying to exclude member Jim Fisler - a man who has viciously pillaged her on social media for serveral years.  Genis supported Fisler's membership.

Senior Commission (1 appointment)
Two-year Term
Stephanie Love

This passed on a 5-0 vote

FOLEY'S SACRAMENTO TRIP
Before closing the meeting Foley gave us a thumbnail report on her trip to Sacramento earlier that day.  AB 572, sponsored by Fullerton Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, is moving forward based on a vote taken today.  Foley testified in Sacramento in support of the bill and, as mentioned above, offered office space at City Hall for a state inspector for this program.

LAWSUIT DISMISSED
City Attorney Tom Duarte gave a report of a disposition of a pending lawsuit between Americare and The City.  It was dismissed in both Federal and State court.

CLOSED IN MEMORY OF SHERRY SHELDON
Foley closed the meeting in honor of Sherry Sheldon, a local teacher who passed away after a battle with colon cancer.

Another Packed Agenda For Tuesday's Council Meeting

 LOTS OF GOOD STUFF ON TUESDAY'S AGENDA
The Costa Mesa City Council meets again on Tuesday, April 4, 2017 for a meeting full of interesting stuff.  The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers but a Special Closed Session precedes that meeting at 5:00 p.m.  You can read the full agenda HERE.

SPECIAL CLOSED SESSION FIRST
The Special Closed session has two items on it.  #1 is a conference with legal counsel on existing litigation - Timothy Dadey, et al v. City of Costa Mesa.

Item #2 is a conference with labor negotiators - Assistant City Manager Tamara Letourneau, regarding the Costa Mesa Firefighters Association (CMFA).

Any public comments on these two items only will be heard at 5:00 p.m., after which the council will recess to Conference Room 5A for deliberations.

The regular open meeting will commence at 6:00 p.m., or as close to it as possible following the Closed Session.

CONSENT CALENDAR
Following the opening events - National Anthem, Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, Public Comments and Council Member Comments the council will consider the Consent Calendar.  There are seven (7) items on the Consent Calendar Tuesday.  These are items that could be moved in one motion without separate discussion unless a member of the council, staff or public pulls one.  Those items will be discussed immediately following the vote on the remainder.  I'm not going to address them all - just a couple.  You can read all about them on the agenda link above.

MORE CONSULTANTS AND LEGAL FEES
#2 is Warrant #2574, HERE, which shows us how we spent about $4 million of our tax dollars.  I did notice that our list for our Contract Attorney firm, Jones & Mayer, is significantly lower this time around - just over $67,000.  However, combined with other legal charges from other firms, we still spent well over $100,000 on legal fees on this warrant.  And, of course, we continue to rack up large amounts for consultants for Plan Check, Building Inspection, Engineering, Department Management for Development Services and the like.  We also spent another $60,000 for helicopter support by the City of Huntington Beach.  Feel free to go to that link and scroll down to see for yourselves.

COIN HEARING FOR DIVISION MANAGERS
The first Public Hearing, HERE,  on the agenda will be a doozy.  This is the required first hearing under the Civic Openness In Negotiations (COIN) Ordinance for the adoption of the salary and benefits agreement between The City and the Costa Mesa Division Managers Association (CMDMA).  This group has not seen an increase in salary ranges since 2008 and they agreed to increase contributions to CalPERS without a salary increase in 2012, which resulted in a pay reduction.  Recruitment and retention is proving difficult under these circumstances.

OVERDUE CHANGES
The staff recommendation includes salary range adjustments between 2.00% and 15.88 % and has a handy chart to show those changes.  Changes in contributions to the CalPERS plan are included, as are reduction in the vacation cap and Executive Leave.  A Technology Allowance is created and the Car Allowance is increased.  Read the staff report.  It also includes those employees described as "Confidential".

REVISITING THE HELISTOP
Public Hearing #2, HERE, is a request for a retroactive time extension on a Planning Application and Conditional Use Permit for a private helistopat 3132 Airway Avenue that expired last November.  If approved the extension would run until November 3, 2017.  When the original request was approved in November of 2015 it was a split vote, with Foley and Genis voting NO.  This will be interesting.

OVERSEEING FAIRVIEW PARK
New Business #1, HERE, is Professional Services Agreement for Fairview Park Maintenance, Management and Biological Services in the amount of $397,640 for one year.  That number might increase by $30,000 or $60,000 if the council decides to include a Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) Program for one or two years.  Read the staff report.

PLACENTIA AVENUE MEDIANS
New Business #2, HERE, is the Placentia Avenue Median Improvement Project between Adams Avenue and Wilson Street.  Depending on which plant palette is utilized, it could result in 140 trees and over 3,000 plants installed in this median.  The Public Services staff secured a grant of $844,200, of which $738,400 is available for the construction phase.  See the full array of conceptual landscape plans HERE.

MORE APPOINTMENTS
New Business #3, HERE, is the final item on the agenda.  This is Appointments to various commissions and the Senior Commission.  The City Council will be asked to appoint forty-nine (49) regular committee positions, four (4) alternate members to committees and one new member to the Senior Commission.  Here we go again...

BIKEWAYS AND WALKABILITY COMMITTEE
The Bikeway and Walkability Committee consists of fifteen (15) members and we received sixteen applications (16).  Membership will be split between 8 for two years and 7 for one year.

CULTURAL ARTS COMMITTEE
The Cultural Arts Committee, which consists of eleven (11) appointed members, which serve staggered two-year terms, has seven (7) positions available, including one (1) alternate.  Fifteen (15) applications were received.  The newly-appointed members will serve two years.

HISTORICAL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
The Historical Preservation Committee also consists of eleven (11) appointed positions which serve staggered two-year terms.  There are eleven (11) positions available - nine (9) regular and two (2) alternates.  We received nine (9) applications.  Newly appointed members will be  5 for two-years and six for one year.

FINANCE AND PENSION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Finance and Pension Advisory Committee, created by combining two other committees will have eleven (11) members, one of which will by the Mayor's designee - Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Genis -  for a two-year term.  Of the remaining ten (10) appointments, four shall have pension knowledge and others shall be residents or other individuals that conduct business within the City and have significant financial background as defined in the staff report.  We received thirteen (13) applications.  Five will be for two-years and 5 for one-year.

HOUSING AND PUBLIC SERVICE GRANTS COMMITTEE
The Housing and Public Service Grants Committee will have ten (10) appointments, nine (9) regular and one (1) alternate and will serve staggered two-year terms.  We received ONLY seven (7) applications for the positions.

SENIOR COMMISSION
The Senior Commission has a vacancy because member Olga Reynolds resigned before she could take her appointed seat.  There are seven members of this commission, four of which serve four-year terms and three serve two-year terms.  This position will have an expiration of 2019.  We received two (2) applications.

HOW WILL THEY BE CHOSEN?
No mention in the staff report is made about the method of selection for these committees and commission.  You will recall the fiasco we had during the last such event.  I'm hoping we will not see a replay of that event.  When you go to the staff report for more information you will find links to all the applications by committee/commission as separate attachments.  Enjoy.

Never A Dull Moment At Council Meetings - Even Short Ones

ANOTHER ONE FOR THE AGES
Well, last night's Costa Mesa City Council meeting was interesting, to say the very least.  Even with Steve Mensinger's COIN discussion pulled from the agenda earlier in the day, there was plenty of fun stuff to keep us interested.  And, for the first time in a very long time I actually attended the meeting and made it through the entire night - until just after 10:00 p.m., when Mayor closed the meeting in memory of Dennis Barton.  More on that in a minute

THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
A new wrinkle was added to the beginning of the meeting when members of the Costa Mesa High School Band - wind instruments - played the National Anthem before the Pledge of Allegiance.  It's our understanding that this kind of event will begin all future council meetings.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
Nineteen (19) people spoke during Public Comments.

 Former Parks and Recreation Commission Vice Chair Bob Graham offered up a slide show to support his assertion that concrete paths should be used in Fairview Park instead of dirt and decomposed granite.  He showed several images of park paths in the rain.

Eastside Neighbor and realtor Jeff McConville spoke in support of the planned traffic calming project on East 19th Street from the city boundary at Irvine Avenue to Fullerton Avenue, near the terminus of the 55 Freeway.

Matt Holzmann was one of the many people who spoke with passion about the need for a Mental Health Service Center at the Fairview Developmental Center.  He was quoted in a recent article in the Voice of OC on this issue, HERE.

Mike Lingle stepped to the podium to tell the council of the sudden, unexpected passing of Dennis Barton, the owner and moderator of the Costa Mesa Facebook page - not the official city page, but one he named "Costa Mesa".  Barton passed away last Saturday and threads throughout Facebook praised him as a kind, gentle man who moderated his page with a very light touch and had the ability to bring folks together.  No services are yet planned for him.

Cindy Brenneman was among those who expressed concern about Mental Health.  She also praised the cadre of commission candidates and wondered when we would begin seeing "Welcome Chargers" banners around town.

Reggie Mundekis spoke about the Orange Country Fair Board and how their Master Plan will greatly expand the scope of operations at the Fairgrounds.  She strongly urged the City Council to pay close attention to their actions and offer "gentle" reminders of their obligations to the community.

Businessman Tim Lewis told the council the way to stop dangerous Eastside traffic is to complete the 55 Freeway.  He then offered criticism about the way the homeless issue is being handled in our city.

Kim Hendricks provided a slide show featuring images of vernal pools at Fairview Park, and of dogs off leash in areas that are supposed to be protected.  She then looked right at councilman Jim Righeimer and stated "We are not environmental kooks" - a epithet leveled at environmental activists recently by him, apparently because their actions create development problems for his pals.

Katherine Smith, representing the Orange County Alzheimer's Association, spoke about the rising numbers of Orange County residents - 34,000 -  experiencing dementia - a number she indicated is expected to triple by 2025.

A resident who closely monitors the Sober Living Home situation in our city, mentioned the recent absence of discussion of this issue - the Elephant in the Room -  by the City Council.  She also mentioned that she's being threatened with a lawsuit by one of the biggest Sober Living operators in the city because she continues to raise red flags about the issue.  She also mentioned that many rehab rejects - folks who fail - are simply bumped to the curb and turn to a life of crime to exist.  She said the girls frequently become part of the human trafficking problem.

Beth Refakes reported on the recent FAA Metroplex workshop, indicating that it was marginally helpful.  She said the numbers at her Eastside house will change only slightly once this plan is implemented.  I wrote about that workshop in an earlier post, HERE.

An unidentified woman spoke about printing postcards which she handed out to homeless folks providing them with a list of services available to them locally.

Cindy Black also spoke about the homeless and folks with mental health issues.  She pointed out that materials being used at the Fairview Park workshops area branded with the logo of the company trying to develop the Banning Ranch and felt that is a conflict of interest.  She asked that the upcoming Orange County Marathon route NOT include what she described as the "illegal canyon" in Fairview Park.  She also offered kudos to Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue Division Chief Jason Pyle and Fire Engineer Steve Cathey for their recent intervention with an ill man on a flight back from the midwest.  You can read more about their heroics HERE.

Richard Russell addressed the COIN ordinance and the problem we have with our unfunded pension liability issue.  He suggested that COIN was a good ordinance that addressed the issue.

COUNCIL MEMBER COMMENTS
During Council Member Comments (each one had four (4) minutes), they said the following:

RIGHEIMER
Righeimer addressed the Fairview Developmental Center issue, stating that the City has little control over what happens while it is in state hands, but that they can prescribe zoning of the area for other uses in the future, which they have done, locking in 25% for institutional uses - like a Mental Health Service Center.

MANSOOR
Allan Mansoor told us that his absence from the meeting last Tuesday was due to the passing of his father.  He asked City Manager Tom Hatch to take a look at Graham's suggestion about the flooded sections of Fairview Park and the planned trails.

FOLEY
Mayor Katrina Foley affirmed the plan for the National Anthem to be presented at each future council meeting by youth groups.  She mentioned that tourism is up in Costa Mesa.  She also thanked the firefighters for their actions aboard that airplane.  She mentioned that March is Woman's History Month and that there will be an event marking the seven (7) former female mayors in our city.

GENIS
Mayor Pro Tem Sandra Genis mentioned her Infrastructure Workshop, scheduled for the evening of February 16th in Conference Room 1A and invited the public to attend and tell her what they thought were priorities in the City infrastructure.  She also mentioned Dennis Barton's passing.  She mentioned the meeting of the Coastal Commission today at the Newport Civic Center where the future of Banning Ranch will be, once again, discussed.  She reinforced the need to remind the folks at the Orange County Fairgrounds of their responsibility to the community.  She also mentioned the Metroplex workshop, observing that despite the changes being implemented, it all comes down to the individual pilot and air traffic controller.

STEPHENS
Councilman John Stephens mentioned his upcoming "T it up with John" event tomorrow at City Hall where he will host residents who want to provide input on Fireworks in Costa Mesa.  That should be interesting.  He also mentioned Dennis Barton, whom he described as a kind and dear man.

CONSENT CALENDAR
No items - ZERO - were pulled from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and vote, so the council quickly passed it on a  5-0 vote - one of the rare unanimous votes last night.

BANNING MARIJUANA EXTENDED
Public Hearing #1, the extension of the Emergency Ordinance banning any marijuana - medical or otherwise - in the City for another ten (10) months and fifteen (15) days was very briefly discussed and passed on a 5-0 vote.

COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS
Old Business #1, the appointments of candidates to the Planning, Parks and Recreation and Senior Commissions, was up next.  You can read the staff report, including the attachments with applications, HERE. City Clerk Brenda Green explained the process and, following a very brief discussion, the public was invited to address this issue.  Seven people spoke to the issues.  Among them was Ann Parker, who reminded them that the commissioners should be following the rules.  Cindy Black, after a short comment, ended by saying, "We're watching you".

THE PROCESS
Foley then explained the interview process, wherein each Planning Commission candidate was interviewed by council members for eleven minutes.  I've written about those two interview sessions, for the Parks and Recreation and Senior Commissions HERE and for the Planning Commission HERE.  She said her goal was to be inclusive and to have balance on the commissions.

MANSOOR - "I'LL GO ALONG"
During Council Comments on this issue Mansoor said he disagreed with firing all the previous commissioners, but that he was going to go along with the process.

STEPHENS - GREAT FEEDBACK SO FAR
Stephens said the response to the recruitment was beyond his expectations and he was very impressed with the applicants for all commissions.  He indicated he had received great feedback from folks who had observed the interviews and that he was very pleased with the process.

GENIS - "GOOD AND SUPERGOOD"
Genis was also impressed with the applicants, stating that "Everybody was good and some were Super Good."  She mentioned a variety of skill sets and diversity of the candidates.

RIGHEIMER - HE'S ANGRY AND INCONSIDERATE
Righeimer thanked all the applicants, then said he vehemently opposes the firing of the previous commissioners.  He said it was a slap in the face to the people who had worked hard.  He then, observing about the candidates, said "These people don't have a clue" about the important issues facing them... ever the class act, isn't he?  He then invoked "the unions", somehow indicating this was political payback.  Geez, it never stops!  He then said "This whole process is wrong!"

FOLEY - VOTING FOR BALANCE
Foley indicated she will be voting for balance and Righeimer launched into another rant.

FINALLY, THE VOTES
Finally they got around to marking their nominations forms.  This meant that they would rank their, in the case of the Planning Commission, top five candidates on a scale from 5-1, 5 being highest.  After submitting those forms to Green, there would be a  brief recess while she tallied the numbers.  The total for each candidate would be calculated, then multiplied by the number of nomination forms on which that person appeared.  You can see the blank nomination forms HERE.

PLANNING COMMISSION
The highest scores - 5 for the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Commission, 7 for the Senior Commission - would be the successful applicants.  The highest scored would occupy the 4-year appointments and the remainder would be 2-year appointees.

So, after a short break during which Green did the calculations, she announced the successful candidates for the five Planning Commission seats.  The are, in order of most votes as a result of that calculation:
Jeffrey Harlan - 36 (4 years)
Byron de Arakal - 32 (4 years)
Isabell Mayer Kerins - 20 (2 years)
Carla Navarro Woods - 18 (2 years)
Stephan Andranian - 16 (2 years)

Others:
Teresa Callo Drain - 15 
Jenna Tourje - 12
Rob Dickson - 8
Jonathan Zich - 5
Daniel Hoffman - 4
Jeff Mathews - 4
Jay Humphrey - 2. 
Sarah Bortz, Mark Buchanan, Susan Gonzales, Dan Worthington received no votes.

AN EXCELLENT GROUP
In my view, this is an excellent commission, with a varied background of technology, business and education.  My opinion is that it likely will have a slight tilt towards the Righeimer/Mansoor side of the equation, but only time will tell.  I'm not quite sure how to interpret the fact that neither Chairman Rob Dickson nor Vice Chair Jeff Mathews were selected, nor was Jay Humphrey.  And, I don't recall two women on any Planning Commission in recent memory.

PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION
The council then submitted their nomination forms for the Parks and Recreation Commission and, after a short break again during which Green tallied the numbers, they were presented with the following results:
Kim Pederson - 70 (4 years)
Liz McNabb - 33 (4 years)
Leah Ersoylu - 27 (2 years)
Arlis Reynolds - 24 (2 years)
Kristina Bogner - 20 (2 years)

Others:
Shannon Crossen - 18
Gary Parkin - 12
Steve Smith - 8
Jeff Mathews - 4
Barbara Morihiro - 2
Mark Buchanan - 0
Carla Navarro Woods - 0

ANOTHER GOOD GROUP - KIM AND HIS HAREM
Again, another excellent group was chosen and, again, Jeff Mathews was rejected.  Kim Pederson, who has been the Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission in the past, is a good choice from a continuity standpoint.  It will be interesting to watch Kim and his harem - four women, for goodness sake! - in action later this month. (NOTE:  My "harem" reference was not intended to offend anyone.  It was just an attempt to demonstrate how rare it is in our city to have a commission dominated by women.  Kim Pederson will be one lucky man to be seated on the dais with such a group of dedicated, skilled women.)

SENIOR COMMISSION
Finally the council submitted their nomination forms for the Senior Commission and, again, after a short break Green presented the following results for the seven seats:
Gary Parkin - 130 (4 years)
Charlene Ashendorf - 115 (4 years)
Alexa Merchant - 48 (4 years)
Darrell Neft - 39 (2 years)
Barbara Steck - 27 (2 years)
Lee Ramos - 24 (2 years)
Olga Reynolds - 16 (2 years)

Others:
Joeliza Jones - 16 (lost in a vote to Reynolds)
Lucia Holt - 10
Randy Briggs - 0

ANOTHER GOOD GROUP
And, once again, this commission has some real strength to it.  Gary Parkin and Lee Ramos - the two most junior former commissioners, will return.  And, again, this is a commission with a majority of women.

CHICKS RULE! (SORRY, LADIES)
So, of the seventeen commissioners selected last night, ten (10) are women.  This must be some kind of a landmark moment in our city's history.  Congratulation to all the new commissioners.

WIND SPEED ORDINANCE
Next came the second reading of the Wind Speed ordinance.  As predicted, it took just about 2 minutes for the council to approve it on a 5-0 vote.

RESCUE AMBULANCE REDUX - AGAIN
Next came New Business #2, Fire Chief Dan Stefano's presentation - one more time - of a plan to fully implement the Rescue Ambulances.  This was rejected by the last Righeimer-dominated council majority and has been sitting on the shelf for a year despite having purchased $1.6 million worth of vehicles to facilitate implementing this plan.

 

THE CHIEF'S GOAL LAST NIGHT
Following a short presentation by Chief Stefano, who asked for the council to approve a part-time Emergency Medical Services Coordinator to assist the department in the transition; schedule an April Study Session where the council could reassess the medical transportation options and schedule a hearing in May to review the updated recommendations.

Four members of the public spoke to this issue, all of whom supported this long-simmering proposal.

RIGHEIMER - ANGRY AND TRUTH-CHALLENGED
During the council member discussion Righeimer said he's adamantly opposed to this plan, and said this is just union payback for having supported the new council majority in the last election.  He, again, said he didn't vote for ambulance transport.  A lie.  He, inaccurately, said the firefighters average $200,000 per year and accused firefighters of using scare tactics when they went door-to-door campaigning last year.  Funny, he didn't mention his connection to our current contract ambulance service, C.A.R.E. Ambulance.

UH, REMEMBER THIS, JIM?
Foley refreshed Righeimer's memory on the history of the votes taken when the Rescue Ambulances were authorized - and yet he denied it.

Stephens supported this proposal.

Genis cited personal experience between C.A.R.E. and the Costa Mesa paramedics.

PASSED, WITHOUT A STUDY SESSION
Foley said she's ready to move forward and the council eventually, on a 3-2 vote, with Mansoor and Righeimer voting no, decided to direct Stefano to abandon the Study Session idea and return in April with a current plan for the implementation of this program, including all budgetary considerations.

CONTROVERSIAL COMMITTEE ISSUES
Next came New Business #3,  the discussion of a re-populating of most City Committees, dissolving some and creating some new ones.  This was really fun.  You can read the staff report, which contains a list of all the committees and board involved, along with the roster of current members, HERE.

COMBINING PENSION AND FINANCE COMMITTEES
During public comments the following individuals spoke to these issues:
Ralph Taboada, a member of both the Finance Advisory Committee and Pension Oversight Committee, addressed the issue posed of combining both into one committee.  He didn't want to see the Pension side of things shoved aside, though, and spoke about a Pension Sub-committee.  He also suggested the Finance Committee discuss this proposal and come back to the council with suggestions about the reorganization, including the possibility of increasing the size of the combined committee.

YOUTH SPORTS COMMITTEE
Dustin Woods spoke about the proposal to create a Youth Sports Committee, and wondered how that would work with the existing Youth Sports Council, which operates under the umbrella of Costa Mesa United.

CONFLICT/COMPETE WITH YOUTH SPORTS COUNCIL?
Former Parks and Recreation Commission Chairman Brett Eckles also addressed that issue, speaking in glowing terms about how effective the Youth Sports Council has been in the nearly ten years of it's existence.  Council members interrogated him at length about the Youth Sports Council, it's organization, size, etc.

MILITARY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
Righeimer again vented about being angry at "firing" all the committee members.  He indicated that he saw no reason for a Military Affairs Committee - presently there is a Military Affairs Team, a loosely configured group of volunteers who have involved themselves in very tangible ways supporting veterans and others.  Staffer Dan Baker has been the City point man with that group.

THE DECISIONS
Eventually, with much rancorous discussion, the council decided the following:

• Form a Military Affairs Committee, with the staff to return with details of size, scope, etc.  The vote was 3-2, with Mansoor and Righeimer voting no.
• Form a Fairview Park Steering Committee, with the same staff requirements, on a 3-2 vote.
• Form a Youth Sports Committee, also on a 3-2 vote.  Staff will return with potential member organizations, liaisons, ect.
• Dissolve the Charter, 60th Anniversary Committees on a 5-0 vote.
• Dissolve the Fairview Park Citizens Advisory Committee on a 3-2 vote.
• Merge the Finance Advisory and Pension Oversight Committees, with the new name of Finance/Pension Advisory Committee.  Staff will create the scope and recommendations about the size following the discussion with the existing Finance Advisory Committee. The vote was 3-2.
• Change the terms on the Access, Fire and Housing Board of Appeals to expire 3/31/17 and have the staff create new requirements that assure highly qualified individuals with the right kind of backgrounds for this infrequently used, but essential and required Board.
• Make no changes to the Cultural Arts Committee at this time.
• Change all the other terms of the committees not otherwise addressed to 3/31/17.
• Authorize recruitment for all expiring committees, on a 3-2 vote.

Righeimer was perpetually angry last night.  For example, in a fit of rage, he announced that he would recommend that every youth sports team and school representative avoid the new Youth Sports Committee.  Never the class act!

FOLEY TO HATCH
Foley then asked Hatch to arrange a meeting with Fairgrounds Management for a liaison meeting to discuss plans for that site.  She also asked the status of the Fairview Park Manager position.  Apparently we're going to have a full time staffer in charge of overseeing all elements of the park.  She also, in response to a resident concern, asked for a report on the branding on literature being distributed at the park.  And, she asked that there be a formal point in the agendas for staffers and council members who attend meetings to report back to the council on those activities.

ADJOURNED IN MEMORY OF DENNIS BARTON
She adjourned the meeting in memory of Dennis Barton just after 10:05 p.m.

A THOUGHT...
Jim Righeimer continues to demonstrate his hatred of union employees.  Meeting after meeting, on issue after issue, he attempts to blame any perceived ill on "unions".  It's an interesting sidebar from last night to note that twice during the meeting two of those "darn union thugs" - members of the Costa Mesa Fire and Rescue Department - responded to a resident who seemed to be in physical distress.  Yeah, they're bad folks, alright!

SORRY... THANKS FOR YOUR PATIENCE
Oh, yes... you may wonder where the heck this entry has been.  As I type this we are now more than 20 hours since the meeting ended.  Well, y'all are spoiled!  That little old embolism last summer has caused me to adjust my work schedule - no more typing until dawn.  That, plus an early morning dentist appointment, gave me a late start.  And, today there was much drama around the community about the votes on the commission appointments.  Those generated many, many telephone calls while I was trying to put this thing together.  Thanks for your patience.