HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/14/1976 MINUTES CCBakersfield, California. June 14, 1976
Minutes of a regular meeting of the Council of the City
of Bakersfield, California, held in the Council Chambers of City
Hall at 7:00 P. M., June 14, 1976.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Hart, followed
by the Pledge of Allegiance and Invocation by Councilman Donald A.
The City Clerk called the roll as follows:
Present: Mayor Hart, Councilmen Medders, Rogers, Sceales, Strong,
Barton, Bleecker, Christensen
Absent: None
Minutes of the regular meeting of June 7, 1976 were
approved as presented.
Correspondence.
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, letter from Congress-
man William M. Ketchum, dated May 25, 1976, requesting the Council's
views on a bill which recently passed the House Ways and Means
Committee entitled "Umemployment Compensation Act Amendments", was
received and referred to the Legislative Committee for study and
report back to the Council.
Council Statements.
Approval of Agreement between the
City of Bakersfield and Kern Delta
Water District for the Sale of Kern
River Water Rights and Canals.
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, Agreement between
the City of Bakersfield and Kern Delta Water District for the Sale
of Kern River Water Rights and Canals, was approved and the Mayor
was authorized to execute same.
Reports.
Councilman Barton, Chairman of the Business Development
and Parking Committee. read Report No. 4-76 regarding Request for
Loan of $135,000 to Purchase, Demolish and Surface Old Elks Building
Site, as follows:
The Business Development and Parking Committee
met with a committee of the Redevelopment Agency
on June 4, 1976.
Rogers.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 2
The Agency is negotiating for a project which
would require utilization of the Old Elks Build-
ing site. It would be necessary for the Agency to
acquire the Old Elks Building property for parking
from the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD).
The Committee concluded, after much discussion,
it would be best if the Agency borrowed the
necessary funds from the City after July 1, 1976,
at the City's normal interest yield, the note to
be renewable on June 30th, and the loan repaid
to the City when the property is sold.
The property has been appraised by an independent
appraiser for HUD at $130,000 with no value given
to the structure. The Agency's appraisal was
$125,000. Demolition will cost approximately
$55,000. The Agency's offer to HUD will be $70,000.
The Committee agrees that this property is a good
buy.
The lot will be surfaced for parking; this will
cost about $10,000. The lot will be used as a
public metered parking lot until the proposed
development occurs on that block.
The committee, in support of the downtown redevelop-
ment effort, recommends that the City Council
approve a loan to the Redevelopment Agency for
$135,000 for the purchase, demolition and resur-
facing of the Old Elks Building property.
Upon a motion by Councilman Barton, Report No. 4-76 of
the Business Development and Parking Committee regarding Request
for Loan of $135,000 to Purchase, Demolish and Surface Old Elks
Building Site, was accepted and loan to the Redevelopment Agency
in the amount of $135,000 for the purchase, demolition and resur-
facing of the old Elks Building, was approved.
Councilman Rogers, Chairman of the Water and City Growth
Committee, read Report No. 9-76 regarding the Sign Ordinance, as
follows:
The Water and City Growth Committee met with
the Special Advisory Committee to the City Council
on the Sign Ordinance to seek reasonable compro-
mise upon which the Council may act. Compromises
were reached, although they have not all been
agreed to by all members of the Advisory Committee
or the Water and City Growth Committee. This report
reflects the majority opinion of the Water and
City Growth Committee on proposed changes to the
draft Sign Ordinance submitted to the Council by
the Advisory Committee.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 3
105
Discussion was focused upon those few areas where
there was a major split in opinion among members
of the Advisory Committee. We believed that
approach was more productive than an item by item
review of the various sign ordinance proposals
which have been submitted to the Council for
consideration within recent months. The topics
discussed, our recommendations, and reasons for
these recommendations are as follows:
Roof Signs and Projecting Signs. The
major area of question was whether roof
and projecting signs should require Con-
ditional Use Permits, as recommended by
the majority members of the Advisory
Committee, or be permitted for all businesses
without conditions.
These types of signs significantly con-
tribute to sign clutter throughout much
of the City, and in some cases may actu-
ally hinder good business identifications.
The Advisory Committee believes that roof
and projecting signs should only be per-
mitted where other more preferred signs
(freestanding and wall signs) cannot
effectively identify and advertise the
business; we agree with the position of
the majority members of the Advisory
Committee and recommend keeping the
provisions related to roof and projecting
signs.
Outdoor Advertising. The major area
in question was the desired spacing
between billboards on the same side
of a street within the C-2 zone. The
Advisory Committee members were split
on this issue with the majority favor-
ing 600 foot spacing and the minority
favoring 300 foot spacing.
We recommend changing the provisions
related to spacing of billboards on
the same side of a street from 600 to
300 feet.
Wall Signs. The major issue in question
was the area of wall signs within the C-2
zone. The Advisory Committee recommended
i sq. ft. of sign area for each lineal
foot of building frontage.
We believe that this standard is too
restrictive. Too many existing signs
which we believe are in good taste
would not conform to this standard.
An alternative standard was discussed
and approved by the Advisory Committee
during our meeting; the alternative for
wall sign area within the C-2 zone would
be 2 sq. ft. for each lineal foot of
building frontage or 25% of the signable
106
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 4
wall area, whichever is greater,
but not to exceed 450 sq. ft. of
sign area per building elevation.
We recommend changing the provisions
related to wall signs within the C-2
zone to the alternative standards
approved by the Advisory Committee
during our meeting.
Comprehensive Sign Plans. The
major issue in question was the require-
ment for 100% signed approval of pro-
perty owners or businessmen before
the Planning Commission could approve
an application for a Comprehensive
Sign Plan. We believe that this
would be virtually impossible to
achieve. A more reasonable require-
ment would be signed approval by a
majority of the property owners or
businessmen and notification of all
property owners prior to any hearing
on a proposed Comprehensive Sign Plan.
We recommend that the provisions re-
lated to Comprehensive Sign Plans be
changed to require majority approval
of property owners of businessmen and
notice prior to hearing.
Administrative Tolerance In Enforcement.
This question related to the desirability
of permitting a deviation over the defined
standards for height and area of signs
within each zone district before signs
might be determined to be noncomforming
and subject to abatement. The majority
members of the Advisory Committee believe
that such a tolerance factor would mini-
mize appeals for existing signs which may
marginally exceed the standards and make
the ordinance more acceptable to these
businessmen.
We agree with this opinion and recommend
that the provision of a 5% tolerance
factor be included in the ordinance.
We believe that the changes recommended above
address the major questions about the ordinance
draft submitted to us by the Advisory Committee.
Surely, many within the community will claim that
further changes should be made. However, we believe
that the revised Sign Ordinance draft submitted to
the Council with this report represents a reasonable
standard for signing in Bakersfield and is consistent
with the intended purposes of the ordinance. We
believe it provides a generous time frame for en-
forcement and abatement. and contains adequate
provisions for appeals and legal due process.
Before taking action on this ordinance, the Council
must certify the completeness of the EIR. Although
the EIR was written to address the draft prepared
by the Planning Commission, the ordinance now being
presented is adequately covered by the "More Stringent
Controls Alternative" included in the EIR. The
ordinance presented is the direct result of efforts
to minimize the possible adverse environmental
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 5
effects cited in the EIR and
the California Environmental
Quality Act have been served.
the purpose of
We recommend that the City Council adopt the
attached resolution certifying the EIR and
adopt the Sign Ordinance as presented.
Councilman Barton, member of the Water and City Growth
Committee, stated he did not totally agree with the majority
report on the Sign Ordinance, and he read a minority report as
follows:
Let me first make it clear that I agree with
the other Water and City Growth Committeemen
and the Advisory Committee in the desire that
we should remove from our city the sign clutter
and improve the aesthetic value of our community.
But we have reached different views as to how
this can best be accomplished.
The many factors of the proposed sign ordinance
that the majority of the Advisory Committee
has recommended has numerous ramifications on
the business community and the citizens of our
city.
The predominate factor that has caused me to
submit a minority report is based on the economic
impact a sign ordinance will have on the sign
users and the consumers of our city.
Economical adversities to our citizens are
continually being imposed by some govern-
mental jurisdictions, be it Federal, State,
or local. It is not my intention to blindly
participate in establishing laws that would
impose unbearable economic hardships.
The proposed ordinance interpretation of non-
conformity signs, even with a liberal abatement
period. does call for elimination of hundreds
of signs in our community; this to any reason-
able person means we are imposing an adverse
economic impact.
It is my opinion that the issue of the amount
of signs and, in most cases, the size of signs
as proposed in the Advisory Committee Majority.
Planning Commission, and the Advisory Committee,
Minority sign ordinance drafts, can be resolved
into a workable ordinance.
It is also my opinion that the restrictive or
implied elimination of roof and projecting
signs as proposed by the Advisory Committee
ordinance goes beyond the reason of governmental
control. As stated in the draft ordinance, a
sign user can, if he is able to, demonstrate
the need for a roof or projecting sign to the
Planning Commission that such a sign will not
adversely affect the public health, safety.
10'?
108
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 6
and welfare, and whether the application com-
plies with the matters stated in Section 17.54.010
relating to the objectives based on four purposes
of this chapter.
(1) To protect and enhance the character of
residential neighborhoods and property values by
prohibiting obtrusive and incompatible signs.
(2) To promote and maintain healthy com-
mercial centers and property values for effective
identification and communication of the nature of
goods and services and avoidance of wasteful and
unsightly competition in signs.
(3) To attract and direct persons to various
activities and enterprises, in order to provide
for the public convenience.
(4) To provide a reasonable system of
controls of signs, supplementing the comprehensive
zoning plan set forth in this Title.
(5) To encourage signs which are well
designed and pleasing in appearance and to
provide incentive and latitude for variety,
good design relationship and spacing.
(6) To encourage a desirable urban charac-
ter which has a minimum of clutter.
(7) To enhance the economic value of the
community and each area thereof through the
reasonable regulation of such things as type.
number, area, height, location and illumination
of signs.
(8) To encourage signs which are harmonious
with adjacent land uses and to encourage architec-
tural compatibility.
(9) To reduce possible traffic and safety
hazards through good signing.
(10) To provide a reasonable amortization
period for the removal of nonconforming signs.
(ll) To implement the purposes, policies
and programs of the General Plan.
The Planning Commission or the Council can grant
a conditional use permit or variance. With the
many hundreds of projecting and roof signs in our
city, I can readily see a great flood of variances
being granted or a select discrimination of variances
granted; either way, our city taxpayers will bear
the financial burden of enforcement or litigation.
I believe the issue of roof and projecting sign
control was somewhat resolved in our committee
meeting when it was agreed upon the criteria for
a Comprehensive Sign Plan--51 percent of the owners
or businessmen in a block could have a comprehensive
sign plan approved by the Planning Commission.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 7
109
They, and I want to emphasize they, could eliminate
signs or develop as strict a plan as they want.
This idea enables the users within the plan to
develop their own aesthetic and economics without
dictating a minority wish on the rest of the
business community.
My recommendation is that the entire Council
review the three proposed drafts--Advisory
Committee Majority, Minority, and Planning
Commission ordinance drafts and be able, in
the very near future, to input their own
recommendations of a final Ordinance based
upon their reasoning, fairness, and workability.
This I firmly believe is our responsibility
to the entire citizenry of our community and
not a reaction to a vocal few.
Mr. Leon Thomas, 320 Golden State Highway, Mobile Message
of Bakersfield, spoke in opposition to the proposed Sign Ordinance.
Councilman Christensen stated, for the record, that he
has followed the facts leading to the proposed Sign Ordinance very
closely and has received only one complaint from a businessman;
the rest have come from sign manufacturers and salesmen. It is
his sincere feeling that the policy for the Sign Ordinance should
not be set by sign manufacturers and salesmen but by businessmen,
who buy and use the signs, and the people who look at them. The
proposed Sign Ordinance is flexible enough and should be given a
chance to function, and if it does not work as intended, then the
Council can amend it.
Councilman Strong stated that no matter how long it takes,
the Committee should review each of the concepts that are set forth
in the Sign Ordinance, especially in view of the fact there seems
to be just one or two areas where there is a division of opinion.
He would hope that the Council would follow Councilman Barton's
recommendations to review those areas
of the Committee members, and perhaps,
could be reached.
standards
that are unacceptable to all
as in the past, some compromise
Councilman Medders questioned the freeway oriented signs.
Community Development Director Foster stated that the
for the freeway corridor have not been set out in the
proposed Sign Ordinance.
Bakersfield, California, June 14. 1976 - Page 8
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, Report No. 9-76 of
the Water and City Growth Committee regarding the Sign Ordinance,
was accepted.
Adoption of Resolution No. 39-76 of
the Council of the City of Bakers-
field certifying the adequacy,
accuracy and objectivity of the
Final Environmental Impact Report
Re the Proposed Sign Ordinance,
stating the Council has reviewed
and considered the information
contained therein, making certain
findings and approval of the project.
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, Resolution No. 39-76
of the Council of the City of Bakersfield certifying the adequacy,
accuracy and objectivity of the Final Environmental Impact Report
Re the Proposed Sign Ordinance, stating the Council has reviewed
and considered the information contained therein, making
findings and approval of the project, was adopted by the
roll call vote:
Ayes:
Noes:
Absent:
Abstaining:
certain
following
Councilman Medders
Adoption of Ordinance No. 2281 New
Series of the Council of the City
of Bakersfield repealing specified
sections of Title 17, and adding
Chapter 17.54 to Title 17 of the
Municipal Code, concerning the
regulation of Signs within the City
of Bakersfield.
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, Ordinance No. 2281 New
Series of the Council of the City of Bakersfield repealing specified
sections of Title 17, and adding Chapter 17.54 to Title 17 of the
Municipal Code, concerning the regulation of Signs within the
City of Bakersfield, was adopted by the following roll call vote:
that it
Ayes: Councilmen Rogers. Sceales, Bleecker, Christensen
Noes: Councilmen Medders, Strong, Barton
Absent: None
Councilman Medders clarified his negative vote by stating
bothered him to place these types of restrictions on people.
Councilmen Rogers, Sceales, Bleecker, Christensen
Councilmen Strong, Barton
None
Bakersfield, California, June 14. 1976 - Page 9
City Manager Bergen reported that the Sheriff, Chief
of Police, a representative of the County Counsel, District Attor-
ney's Office and City Attorney's Office will be meeting this week
to prepare a suggested draft Bingo License Ordinance for sub-
mission to the City Council and the Board of Supervisors for action
at a later date.
City Manager Bergen reported that the City has received
a copy of the Draft Environmental Impact Report - Revised (DEIR)
for the San Joaquin Nuclear Project which will be in the City
Clerk's Office for public perusal. Public hearings to receive oral
comments on the DEIR will be held in Bakersfield, July 19, 1976,
at 7:30 p.m. in the Bakersfield Civic Auditorium, 1001 Truxtun
Avenue, and in Los Angeles, July 21, 1976, at 7:30 p.m. in the
Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Auditorium, lll North
Hope Street, Los Angeles.
Consent Calendar.
The following items were listed on the Consent Calendar:
(a) Allowance of Claims Nos. 4667 to 4750,
inclusive, in the amount of $120,445.20.
(b) Notice of Completion and Acceptance of
Work on street and sewer improvements
under Tract No. 3680 - Unit E - Contract
No. 76-18 with Moreland Engineering Inc.
(c) Application for Encroachment Permit from
Golden Empire Transit for installation of
bus stop signs at various locations
throughout the City. This is a blanket
permit and allows Golden Empire Transit
to change locations and add or delete
signs upon approval of the Public Works
Department.
a motion by Councilman Christensen. Items (a), (b),
Consent Calendar, were adopted by the following roll
Upon
and (c) of the
call vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Medders,
Bleecker,
Noes: None
Absent: None
Rogers, Sceales,
Christensen
Strong, Barton,
110
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 10
Councilman Rogers stated that there is an error in Section
17.54.090 (2) (b) of the Sign Ordinance that should be corrected
before printing. It should state"(b) Such signs shall be at least
three hundred (300) feet apart on the same side of a public street."
Action on Bids.
Upon a motion by Councilman Strong, low bid of James
G. Francis for improvement of Baker Street between East Truxtun
Avenue and Southern Pacific Railroad, was accepted, all other bids
rejected and the Mayor was authorized to execute the same.
Upon a motion by Councilman Medders, usual bidding
requirements were dispensed with, in accordance with Section
5.20.060 of the Municipal Code, and the Finance Director was
authorized to negotiate a price with Marcon Ltd. for a voice
analyzer.
Deferred Business
Adoption of Ordinance No. 2282 New
Series of the Council of the City of
Bakersfield repealing Ordinance No.
2232 and approving a Formal Agreement
relating to a Public Leaseback, and
the execution thereof, by and between
the City of Bakersfield and the
Southeast Bakersfield Wastewater
Treatment Facilities Consolidation
Corporation.
Upon a motion by Councilman Rogers, Ordinance No.
2282 New Series of the Council of the City of Bakersfield repealing
Ordinance No. 2232 and approving a Formal Agreement relating to a
Public Leaseback, and the execution thereof, by and between the
City of Bakersfield and the Southeast Bakersfield Wastewater Treat-
ment Facilities Consolidation Corporation, was adopted by the
following roll call vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Medders, Rogers, Sceales, Strong, Barton,
Bleecker, Christensen
Noes: None
Absent: None
Approval of Minute Order fixing time
for public hearing regarding Petition
for Cancellation of Land Use Contract
under Williamson Act.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 11
113
Owners of 37.42 acres of land on the south side of White
Lane between Wible Road and Stine Road filed a petition on June 8th
to cancel Williamson Act contract. City Council has control, due
to 1969 annexation of the land, fee is 1/8 of the full cash value
of the land and is paid into County Treasury for the State.
Upon a motion by Councilman Sceales, Minute Order fixing
Monday, June 28. 1976 at 8:00 P. M. as time for public hearing
regarding Petition for Cancellation of Land Use Contract under
Williamson Act, was approved.
Approval of Application by Bakers-
field Neon Sign Company to replace
a 65 foot double faced sign located
at the corner of White Lane and E1
Potrero Lane.
The J's Coffee Shop sign is 6 x 30 feet supported by 4
poles.
high.
Pursuant to Section 13.40.080 of the Municipal Code no
permit for a sign exceeding fifty feet from grade level shall be
issued without prior approval of the City Council.
The proposed sign is a double faced metal sign with
channel letters J's Coffee Shop illuminated with neon tubing.
Other signs in the immediate area over 50 feet in height are the
The nsw sign will be a 65 foot sign 20'6" wide and 27 feet
Bakersfield Neon Sign Company to replace a 65 foot double faced
sign for J's Coffee Shop located at the corner of White Lane and
E1 Potrero Lane, was approved.
Councilman Strong questioned the staff regarding a report
that was given the Council concerning a rate increase for refuse
collection. The funds are included in the budget. and the contract
will be submitted for formal consideration on June 28, 1976.
Councilman Rogers expressed his and the Council's apprecia-
tion for a job well done to everyone who was involved in the drafting
of the Sign Ordinance.
Arco - 75 feet, Shell - 75
80 feet.
Upon a motion by
Councilman Sceales, application by
feet, Denny's 90 feet, and Motel 6 -
114
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - 12
Adjournment.
There being no further business to come before the Council,
upon a motion by Councilman Christensen, the meeting was adjourned
at 8:20 P. M.
ersfield,
ATTEST:
CITY ~IJ~RK and Ex-O~icio Clerk of the Council
of the City of BakerSfield, California
ma
Calif.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976
115
Minutes of the Council of the City of Bakersfield,
California, meeting in budget sessions at 8:30 P.M., June 14,
1976.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Hart.
The City Clerk called the roll as follows:
Present: Mayor Hart.
Absent: None
Councilmen Rogers, Sceales, Strong, Barton,
Bleecker, Christensen, Medders
City Manager Bergen stated the detailed requests and
backup material that goes into making up the Operating Budget is
comprised of four volumes, and a great deal of effort has gone into
reducing it into a concise document for Council consideration.
The budget was done in a new format that puts more emphasis on
programs and objectives and should give an indication of what is
being accomplished or achieved with the funds allocated.
Councilman Medders, Chairman of the Budget Review and
Finance Committee, read Report No. 8-76 regarding Operating Budget
for Fiscal Year 1976-77, as follows:
It has been customary practice over the years
to have the Budget Review and Finance Committee
make recommendations on the proposed annual
Operating Budget, the adequacy of restricted
reserves, and the proposed property tax rate.
The Committee will meet after 1975-76 financial
records have been closed, salary determinations
made, and final assessed valuation figures are
available, to review revenues, reserves, and
the property tax rate.
Therefore, this report will be restricted to
the Operating Budget for 1976-77. It is
important that action be taken on the Operating
Budget at this time prior to the beginning of
the next fiscal year.
The Budget Review and Finance Committee has
always been interested in improving the budget
format in order to make it a more informative
document. The staff has made various changes
in this year's document in order to help
achieve this result. These changes have
required considerable effort on the part of
all departments and especially staff from the
City Manager's Office and Finance Department.
This year's budget has been expanded to include
more than just the traditional detailed
expenditure accounts in each budget. These
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 2
changes have focused primarily on putting more
importance on programs and objectives. In
other words, emphasis has been placed on what
the City is doing or attempting to achieve
within a certain funding level rather than
merely on what it is buying.
The budget document has been divided into six
major areas of service:
Environmental Services
Public Safety Services
Development and Transportation
Services
Recreation and Cultural Services
Support Services
Management Services
An overall goal statement has been prepared
for each major service area. Each major service
area, in turn, includes those programs (depart-
ments or divisions) that are part of this
functional category. For example, Police, Fire,
Building, Street Lighting, and Repair and
Demolition Budgets are all included under the
Public Safety Service Area. Program Budgets,
such as Police, have, in turn, been divided
into major functional categories called sub
programs. For the first time, for example,
the costs of the major operational activities
in Police (i.e., Operations, Technical Services,
Vice, Investigations, and Administration) are
identified in the budget.
Goal and objective statements have also been
identified for each program and sub program.
addition, major specific objectives to be
achieved during the year are also listed for
each sub program.
The Operating Budget, which represents less than
one-third of the total General Tax Rate Category
Budget, consists of operating expenses, fixed
assets purchases, and equipment replacement.
Operating expenses consist basically of
materials, supplies, utilities, etc. Fixed
assets and equipment replacement consist of
departmental capital outlay items, e.g., office
equipment, automotive equipment, etc. The
Operating Budget does not include salaries and
supplemental wage benefits nor capital improve-
ment projects. The Governmental Efficiency and
Personnel Committee will make recommendations
on all salary matters at a later date. The
entire City Council will review the proposed
Capital Improvement Program which has been
evaluated and recommended by the Planning
Commission.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 3
The departmental operating budgets have again
been prepared in a manner to reflect the total
direct (i.e., salaries, supplies, and equipment)
and indirect (i.e., data processing, legal,
personnel, etc.) costs of providing a particular
program. This is accomplished by the inclusion
in the budgets, where applicable, of the following
accounts: (1) Custodial Services Cost Allocation,
Object No. 5300; (2) Administrative Cost Alloca-
tion, Object No. 5400; and (3) Rental Internal
Organizations (Equipment Maintenance), Object
No. 6200.
The Custodial Services Cost Allocation reflects
those programs which receive custodial services.
In such cases, each program is charged for their
proportionate share of this cost based on the
total square footage of office space.
The Administrative Cost Allocation entails an
allocation of the cost of staff programs (i.e.,
City Manager's Office, City Clerk, City Attorney,
and Finance) to the various line programs (i.e.,
Police, Fire, Public Works, etc.) based on the
percentage that the cost of each line program
bears to the total cost of all line programs;
the theory being that staff programs are designed
to provide services to the line programs. The
allocations are, of course, deducted from the
budgets of the staff programs as "Costs Applied,"
Object No. 0001, so that the total city budget
remains unchanged.
The Equipment Maintenance Division of the Public
Works Department provides a central equipment
pool for all departments except Fire. All
departments using this equipment are charged a
rental rate which reflects the total cost of
maintenance and a replacement allowance. This
rental charge is reflected in each using
department's budget under the account entitled
"Rental Internal Organizations," Object No. 6200.
The total rental charges are taken as a
reduction in the budget of the equipment
maintenance program as "Costs Applied," Object
No. 0001, so that the total city budget is not
changed. For 1976-77, these rental rates have
been increased by 20 percent to reflect the
increased costs of fuel, equipment parts, etc.
The Operating Budget is directly related to
the level of service provided by the City. For
example, it is estimated that it will cost
$286,500 to pay for street lighting energy
charges during 1976-77. This level of service
is provided to residents in conjunction with
city policy to provide street lighting on all
city streets. Funds in the Operating Budget
for parks are directly related to the City's
decision over the years to provide parks
throughout the community for recreation and
leisure use.
118
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 4
The Committee is recommending approval of an
operating budget for the 1976-77 fiscal year
the amount of $5,644,015 or approximately 27
percent of the $20,966,700 General Tax Rate
Category Budget.
in
In view o£ the relative size of the Operating
Budget and the nature of the items comprising
it (i.e., utility costs, fuel and oil,
stationery supplies, equipment parts), any
significant reductions cannot be made without
changing the level of service and resulting
in added costs in the future. Many of the
operating expenses, such as utilities and pay-
ments for outside services such as refuse
contractors, are difficult to reduce. For
example, proposed 1976-77 utility costs total
$867,765; payments to private refuse contractors
are estimated at $517,780; and fuel, oil, and
vehicle parts are projected to cost $539,500.
During the next fiscal year, these costs alone
will amount to 34.1 percent of the entire
Operating Budget. Many other increases in
operating expenses are attributable to infla-
tion; however, the Committee carefully reviewed
all accounts and has made some reductions.
These have been made in the fixed assets category
and for consultant-type studies.
The following is a summary of the Operating
Budget indicating (1) the amount proposed for
each city program, (2) the increase or decrease
over the amount approved last year, and (3)
pertinent comments concerning the items included
in the specific budgets. The total costs in
some operating budgets show a greater than
normal or less than normal increase over the
previous year. These changes are the result of
City Council actions related to the changing of
certain operating functions from one department
to another during the year (i.e., transfer of
custodial and police vehicle maintenance
functions to Public Works, and transfer of Fire
communications operators to Police).
Councilman Bleecker requested a more detailed explanation
of the 20% increase in the Internal Equipment Rental Rates.
Assistant Finance Director Kelmar stated that that
particular program is comprised of three separate programs:
1. Parts & Materials Warehousing
2. Equipment Maintenance
3. Equipment Management
The Equipment Maintenance Budget comprises about 95% of
the cost in that particular program. The Equipment Rental rates
are based on the projected cost of that maintenance activity and
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 5
119
the cost as requested for that activity versus the rental rates
that were in effect prior to July 1st of this coming year which
needed to be increased by 20% in order for this particular budget
to operate properly as a working capital-type budget.
Director of Public Works Bidwell stated one of the
reasons why there is a significant percentage increase is that
rates were not raised for the current fiscal year and the City is
operating with a large deficit; that is why the increase, percentage
wise, is considerable.
During a lengthy discussion, Councilman Bleecker stated
that he does not want to see the budget pumped up out of propor-
tion on projections so that next year there is purposefully
created a large reserve that may not be necessary, and it looks
like the City is running well when perhaps it may not be running
as cheaply as possible.
MANAGEMENT SERVICES - $1,372,765 (+$123,564)
Mayor - $5,645
There is no change in this budget from funds
approved in 1975-76.
City Council - $117,985 (-$1,825)
The budget decrease is due to a reduction in
property taxes on city-owned properties outside
the city limits.
City Manager - $190,485 (+$86,249)
The major increases in this budget are due to
funds for next year's municipal election.
Funds are included for the replacement of two
typewriters, storage shelves, and a bookcase.
Community Promotions - $29,000
This budget provides funds, on a contractual
basis, to the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of
Commerce for industrial promotion and city
growth. The Chamber has requested an additional
$10,000 to assist in their industrial advertising
campaign. Due to limited funds, the Committee
recommends that the request not be granted this
year.
120
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 6
Employee Retirement - $115,000
There is no change in this budget
approved in 1975-76.
from funds
Insurance - $325,000 (+$54,600)
Additional funds are included due to increased
liability and fire insurance costs.
Debt Service - $589,650 (-$15,460)
The Debt Service Budget is down from 1975-76
due to lower interest payments.
Councilman Bleecker requested an explanation of the
difference in the figures in the report as compared to the
Preliminary Budget under the Management Services category.
Deputy City Manager Sumbardo stated that the reason is
that the Budget Review and Finance Committee report, being given
by Councilman Medders, is the operating portion of the budget only,
which does not include the salary and fringe benefit portions.
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES - $1,275,305 (+$206,563)
Waste Treatment Services - $275,290 ~$45,179)
This budget is up due to inflationary price
adjustments and higher utility rates. Funds are
included under equipment outlay for an emergency
stand-by sewage pump for the new police building
and replacement of a pipe locator.
Refuse Management Services - $1,000,015 (+$161,384)
The increase in this budget is due largely to
rate adjustments and an increased number of
refuse service pickups for private refuse
contractors.
DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES -
$1,106,720 (+$337,801)
Development Services Administration -
$29,115 (+$11,643)
This budget is up due primarily to funds being
included for consulting services (parking assess-
ment district; land appraisals) as needed.
Funds are included for the purchase of an adding
machine.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 7
121
Planning - $76,580 (+$28,325)
Additional £unds are included this year for
assistance in preparation of major EIR's,
general plan element revisions and updating
of the zoning ordinance.
Public Works Administration - $80,475 (+$36,539)
The increase in this budget is due largely to
funds being included for the implementation of
a work measurement program in the Streets
Division of the Public Works Department. Monies
are included for replacement o£ a typewriter.
Councilman Bleecker asked why City personnel couldn't
conduct the Work Measurement Program study and save all the money.
Deputy City Manager Sumbardo stated that originally
there was more money budgeted and after discussions it was deter-
mined that installing this type of program in the Street Division
was the most important and the best place to start.
As far as the staff doing this program, it is a very
technical and time consuming type of implementation. We are
talking about studying standards; for example, in the Street
Division, what should the standard be as to how long it takes to
fill a hole or pave a certain number o£ lineal feet of street.
This fee would include training all the employees in the Street
Division and, before training, orient them as to why this program
would be effective and not just a program to work harder and also
set up standards and actual implementation. It is not a study;
it is an implementation of a work measurement or work management
program.
In a letter from Kapner, Dull, & Wolfberg, Inc.,
Management Consultants of Sherman Oaks, California (they do only
work measurement or work management programs), they state, "If
the current annual rate of productivity improvement savings that
you are realizing within one year after the completion of our
program does not exceed your work management program fee (in this
case $32,000.00), we will return to you the difference between
the fee and your annual rate of savings.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 8
City Manager Bergen stated that this would only provide
the funds for the Work Measurement Program. The Governmental
Efficiency and Personnel Committee would meet to make final
determination.
Councilman Barton questioned the total of nearly a half
million dollars for Professional and Consulting Services.
Councilmen Medders and Christensen explained what each individual
amount was for and where it is located in the budget.
During a lengthy discussion, Councilman Barton stated
he has reservations about this Work Measurement Program from the
standpoint that he would assume that the level of productivity in
certain phases of street work would have some comparability with
the private sector, which is in a profit making business and this
is a point that should be explained to the Council, whether it's
being done or not.
Deputy City Manager Sumbardo stated that this is one of
the aspects of the program to apply tried and true business
practices to government. In the past there hasn't been too much
done in the area of productivity in government, but today, with
people not wanting to increase taxes, etc., government is becoming
more interested in getting productivity out of their personnel.
Engineering Services - $103,960 (+$13,173)
Additional funds are included in this year's
budget for contracting out engineering work as
necessary. Funds are included under equipment
outlay for the purchase of an additional file
cabinet.
Streets - $603,425 (+$211,354)
Additional funds are included this year for
street and sewer materials due to both price
increases and city expansion. The increase in
the rental internal organization account
reflects a 20 percent adjustment in equipment
rental rates and the purchase of new equipment.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 9
123
Traffic Control - $213,165 (+$36,767)
The increases in this budget are due almost
entirely to projected higher electrical utility
charges and repair and maintenance costs to
operate traffic signals. Funds are included
for the purchase of a file cabinet for the
Traffic Engineer.
PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES - $2,542,648 (+$533,584)
Police Services - $1,445,578 (+$372,659)
The majority of the Police Budget increase is
in the materials and charges category. Additional
funds are budgeted for chemical supplies needed
for the new crime lab. The awards and uniforms
account is up due to increased uniform prices and
additional uniforms for the reserve unit.
Increases in the office supplies account are due
to the purchase of tab cards for the new key
punch equipment, additional traffic citation
forms, and general price increases in office
supplies. The materials and supplies account
is up due to additional funds for firearms
training, creation of a police library, and
replacement of tear gas and other chemical agents.
Funds are included under the rental account for
the lease of two mag-card typewriters, a card
sorter, and a key punch machine. Utility
accounts are also up due to rate increases.
Funds are included under office equipment for
additional files and two calculators. Under
signal and communications equipment, funds are
budgeted for tape recorders and walkie-talkies
for reserve officers; replacement of 15 motor-
cycle radios and l0 obsolete burglar alarms:
and modernized light bars and electronic sirens
for patrol cars. Also included under the equip-
ment outlay category are new radio testing
equipment, camera equipment, training films,
hand guns and ammunition for reserve officers,
and fire extinguishers and rescue tools for
patrol cars.
In addition to the above, funds are provided
to continue the contractual agreement with
Horace Clark for school crossing guard services.
The Committee recommends approval of the
request for an increase in the hourly rate for
crossing guards of from $2.35 to $2.50 an hour
and from $115.00 to $122.50 per guard per month
for administrative and operating expenses. The
Committee also recommends approval of the
Police Department request for an additional
crossing guard to serve the Castle School area
in the southwest. The agreement for school
crossing guard services will be placed on the
June 28 City Council agenda.
Chief of Police Price answered questions of the Council
regarding various equipment requests and the $50,000.00 that was
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 10
cut from the budget relevant to an efficiency study in the Police
Department. This study can be made with assistance of P.O.S.T.
Fire Services - $736,760 (+$90,027)
The major increases in the Fire Services Budget
are due to the following: additional telephone
expenses for the new communications network,
utility rate increases, and funds for a fire
station location study. Under equipment outlay~
funds are included for a variety of office and
station equipment; replacement of two sedans
and one pumper; replacement of fire hose,
nozzles, and fittings; fire hydrants for new
development; camera equipment; training films;
and vehicle maintenance equipment.
Fire Chief Needham answered questions about a Fire
Station Location Study.
Building Services - $43,810 (+$6,778)
The budget is up slightly over 1975-76. Funds
are included for a variety of office equipment
items.
Repair and Demolition - $30,000
There is no increase from funds approved in
1975-76. This budget provides funds for the
demolition of substandard dwellings. Costs
incurred by the City are assessed against
affected property owners and ultimately paid
back to the City.
Finance Director Haynes explained the funding for the
demolition of substandard dwellings.
Street Lighting - $286,500 (+$64,120)
The increase in street lighting is due to
higher electrical energy charges.
RECREATION AND CULTURAL SERVICES - $867,265
(+$128,944)
Recreation - $117,055 (+$22,217)
This budget is up due to higher utility costs
and the budgeting of funds for the Recreation
Budget's share of custodial services. Funds
are included for replacement of a hot water
heater at the California Avenue Neighborhood
Facility.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page
125
Auditorium Manager Graviss explained that the original
hot water heater purchased for the California Avenue Neighborhood
Facility is not large enough for their needs and should be
replaced with a larger one.
Parks - $518,925 (+$92,615)
The major increases in the Parks Budget are due
to higher utility costs and equipment rental
rate adjustments. Other increases reflect
price increases in various material and supply
costs. Funds are budgeted under equipment outlay
for replacement of gas chlorinators, chemical
tanks, playground equipment, sprinkler heads,
irrigation tanks, and picnic table tops.
The Committee also reviewed a report from the
Public Works Department related to tree spraying
and private brush hauling services presently
provided by the City (see attached report). The
Committee concurs in the reports recommendations
that (1) the spraying of trees on private property
be discontinued except where it is necessary to
protect public trees and (2) the fee for brush
hauling be increased to a minimum of $25.00 per
location to help defray the City's cost for
this service.
Auditorium - $226,530 (+$11,672)
The Auditorium Budget increase is reflected in
higher utility rates, equipment rental costs,
and administrative cost allocations. Funds are
included under equipment outlay for the replace-
ment of microphones, monitor speakers and
amplifiers, portable audio console, stage
draperies and tables.
Cunningham Art Gallery - $4,755 (+$2,440)
The increase is due to funds being charged
against this budget for custodial services.
SUPPORT SERVICES - $1,391,935 (+$385,953)
Finance - $55,390 (+$7,340)
Increases in the Finance Budget are due to
normal increases in the cost of materials and
supplies. Funds are included under equipment
outlay for three calculators, two filing
cabinets, and replacement of two chairs.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 12
Data Processing - $68,160 (+$7,176)
The Data Processing Budget is up due to normal
increases in the cost of materials and supplies.
Under equipment outlay, funds are included for
additional disk storage packs, a computer halt
alarm device, fire extinguisher, and replacement
of three chairs.
City Attorney - $85,600 (+$907)
This budget is up due to the increased cost of
materials and supplies. Funds are included
for a desk and chair for the Deputy City
Attorney.
General Services - $173,195 (+$44,116)
Increases in this budget reflect the transferring
of all custodial personnel and supplies from
the Auditorium-Recreation Department to the
Public Works Department. Other increases are
largely attributable to higher utility rates.
Equipment outlay monies are included for air
conditioning improvements at City Hall.
EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT - $116,725
The Equipment Management Division is responsible for
the maintenance of 425 pieces of equipment for
all departments except Fire. The above total
budget request consists of the sum of the total
salaries and supplemental benefits, operating
expenses, and departmental capital outlay, less
the equipment rental charges made to other depart-
ments for the use of this equipment.
The operating budget included in the total des-
cribed above amounts to $1,116,375 or $382,854
more than last year. The increase is due almost
entirely to the transfer of police vehicle
maintenance costs to this budget. This is in
line with the Council's decision to transfer
police vehicle maintenance functions to the
Public Works Department. Funds are included
under equipment outlay for the purchase of four
pickup trucks, drill press, metal working equip-
ment, hydraulic tree-trimming unit, traffic line
marker, portable air cleaner, and the installation
of safety equipment on various pieces of equip-
ment.
Equipment Replacement - $892,865 (+$403,615)
The Equipment Replacement Fund is up consider-
ably over last year due to increases in the
number of pieces of Public Works, Police, and
Fire equipment scheduled for replacement next
year. The original cost of city equipment as of
June 30, 1975 totals $3,183,230. The replace-
ment cost of this equipment today would be
substantially higher.
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 13
127
Survey of City Charges and Fees
It has been a number of years since the City
did an in-depth analysis and evaluation of all
charges and fees for city services. The
Committee recommends that the staff make such
a study prior to Council consideration of the
1977-78 budget next year.
Conclusion
The Committee has reviewed all program budget
requests in the recommended Operating Budget
for 1976-77. These requests have been reviewed
in light of both city growth and continued
inflation. Reductions have been made where
possible. However, since the Operating Budget
is so closely tied to current levels of service,
no major reductions have been made.
The Committee recommends acceptance of this
report and approval of the 1976-77 Operating
Budget as outlined above.
Councilman Bleecker asked the total amount that the
Budget Review and Finance Committee cut from the Preliminary Budget.
Councilman Medders answered that the Committee originally
cut $116,702.00 from the budget, but they had to add the cost for
private refuse contractors in the amount of $53,075.00 and school
crossing guards to the Police budget in the amount of $4,125.00,
bringing the total amount cut from the Preliminary Budget to
$59,502.00.
Councilman Barton asked if the Parks Budget reflects a
savings in manpower, equipment, etc., since tree spraying is being
discontinued and the fee for brush hauling is being increased.
Deputy City Manager Sumbardo answered that if the City
got out of the private tree spraying business, the savings would
be 850 manhours and the Public Works Director would transfer these
employees to General Park Maintenance. Each year the City has
added more parks; and Public Works has requested additional
employees; but they have not been approved.
Public Works Director Bidwell stated that the recommen-
dation on brush hauling is not to discontinue the service but to
increase the fees to offset a loss due to the price now being charged.
198
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 14
Councilman Medders made a motion to accept Report No.
8-76 of the Budget Review and Finance Committee regarding the
Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 1976-77, and approve the Operating
Budget for Fiscal Year 1976-77.
Councilman Bleecker offered a substitute motion that the
20% increase in the Internal Equipment Rental Rates be cut to a
10% increase prior to adopting the Operating Budget for Fiscal
Year 1976-77.
Councilman Strong asked Councilman Bleecker if he would
be willing to defer this part of the report until tomorrow night
and the staff could provide more details. There also seems to be
a question regarding deficit figures, and the staff should be
given the opportunity to come up with a more definite amount.
Councilman Bleecker stated that would be fine if the
staff will come up with the actual projected departmental requests
for the various items included in the Internal Equipment Rental
Rates, such as gas, oil, etc.; and if it averages 20%, then I
might be able to support it.
Councilman Bleecker changed his substitute motion to
exclude the Internal Equipment Rental Rates from the Operating
Budget for Fiscal Year 1976-77 and hold over until tomorrow night.
Councilman Christensen requested that the staff also
provide a more detailed explanation of the amount of funds budgeted
for Professional and Consulting Services, as it seems to be an
excessive amount.
Councilman Bleecker stated that he would include
Councilman Christensen's request in his substitute motion.
Councilman Barton requested that the staff provide a
more detailed report on the Work Measurement Program.
Councilman Bleecker stated that he would include
Councilman Barton's request in his substitute motion.
Councilman Bleecker's substitute motion to exclude the
Internal Equipment Rental Rates, Professional and Consulting
Bakersfield, California, June 14, 1976 - Page 15
129
Services and Work Measurement Program from the Operating Budget
for Fiscal Year 1976-77 until tomorrow night for more detailed
explanations from the staff, was approved by the following roll
call vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Rogers, Sceales, Strong, Barton, Bleecker,
Christensen, Medders
Noes: None
Absent: None
Councilman Bleecker stated he would hope that with the
salaries that the City pays and the expertise it has in all depart-
ments that the City could get to a point where "we could run our
own ranch" in an economical manner, particularly in regards to
filling holes in the street, without hiring outside help to tell
us how to do it. It is understandable to pay fees for outside
services where the City needs legal expertise in highly compli-
cated matters, such as water.
Councilman Medders questioned whether the entire Operating
Budget for Fiscal Year 1976-77 would be held over until tomorrow
night.
Recess.
Upon a motion by Councilman Bleecker, the Council recessed
its budget hearings at 10:40 P.M. until Tuesday, June 15, 1976 at
7:00 P.M., by the following roll call vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Rogers, Strong, Barton, Bleecker, Christensen
Noes: Councilmen Sceales, Medders
Absent: None
~~ersfield, Calif.
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK and Ex~Officio Clerk of the Council
of the City of B~t~ersfield, California
ma