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HomeMy WebLinkAboutJAN - SEPT 1968 MINUTES RA-1- February 28, 1968 The first meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency was called to order at 7:30 p.m., in the City Hall, on the 28th of February, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, Chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Robert King Vincent Casper Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi Robert Watson Bill Lee MEMBERS ABSENT: John Brock OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE: Mayor R. V. Karlen Roberf Eddy Robert Miller Roland Woodruff Milton Miller Guy Huffaker Ken Hoagland Bill Jing Bob Thomas Mr. Ken Hoagland, City Attorney, was asked by Mr. Rickett to officially state the name of the committee. Mr. Hoagland replied that it would be known as the "Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency". He was also asked to give an outline of what was to be expected from the members. Mr. Hoagland proceeded to give an explanation of what the committee has been commissioned to do, copies of the Com- munity Redevelopment Law were passed to each member (this is the Act which will govern the activities of fhe Agency who will work closely with the Planning Commission). Mr. Hoagland said the first order of business should be organization procedures; stated the committee would operate under the Brown Act - all meetings open to the public and press with no excuse at this moment for any exemp- tion. Also said that any special meeting called must have a twenty- four hour prior notification, and that failure to do this would be a violation of the Brown Act. Some discussion followed regarding the interpretation of the Brown Act. Mr. Hoagland gave instructions as to what files should be maintained, that by-laws should be established and that insurance should be investigated as this Agency can be sued. Agency members' conflict of interest in the project or survey areas was discussed. Mr. Rickett announced that Mason's Rules of Order would be followed; and that Mr. King would be appointed as the committee's parlimentarian. Mr. Watson moved that the fourth Wednesday of each month be designated as the regular monthly meeting date. Motion carried. Mayor Karlen's office will supply the present stationary needs of the committee; and in the matter of insurance, the City's insurance carrier, Pacific Indemnity, will be consulted. Mr. Rickett asked Mayor Karlen for comments. Mayor Karlen replied that guidelines should be established; that rapid progress must be made in an area where there is a great need; and that specific overall general plans for the survey area should be undertaken, but left open to the committee to decide what must be done. Mr. Robert Eddy and Mr. Robert Miller were then requested by Mr. Rickett to explain the study they are presently involved in with the Downtown Business Association. Explanations were forth- coming, and group discussion followed. Mr. Miller stated that this committee must face facts; that the responsibilities are the most difficult of any committee ever appointed by the City Council; and that the committee must have a dedicated interest to hold onto down- town Bakersfield. Mr. Rickett touch with the Agency; sent at each meeting. asked Mr. Miller and Mr. Eddy to keep in and Mr. Eddy replied that they would be pre- Vincent Casper suggested that the members plan to visit the San Bernardino Redevelopment Area prior to next meeting. At- tempts will be made to~ke such arrangements. -2- Mr. Hoagland called attention to pages 293 and 294 of the Redevelopment Act, and discussion followed. The Planning Commission was requested to have the minimum requirements by the next meeting (Chapter 4, Secion 33300). Mr. King asked Mr. Hoagland if he would act as the Agency's legal advisor. Mr. Hoagland replied that he would at the present time, but not after the Agency gets going. Mr. Hoagland said there is no money set up in the budget for this Agency, but is sure money will be made available when needed. Mr. Capser asked how they could go about finding out what federal monies would be available for redevelopment. He was told that the City Manager has a book detailing this data. Mr. Eddy said he also has this information. Two letters were passed out to members and acknowledged with instructions that they would be placed on the agenda for the next meeting. One letter was from the Bakersfield Parking Service dated February 20, 1968; and the other from the Downtown Business Association under date of February 26, 1968. The Golden Corridor Plan was brought into the discussion at this point. Mr. Eddy stated he was bring the Plan up-to-date from its original 1964 date. Mr. Rickett instructed the committee that their homework would be to study the Redevelopment Agency Act; and that arrange- ments for a bus trip to San Bernardino prior to next meeting would be undertaken. At this point, Mrs. Ghezzi asked if it was a definite feeling th~the annexation of outlying areas was necessary. Mr. Eddy and Mr. Miller both said this was a definite need. Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Valdes, Secretary March 27, 1968 The second meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment A- gency was called to order at 7:35 p.m., in the City Hall, on the 27th day of March, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Robert King Bill Lee John Brock Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi Robert Watson Vincent Casper MEMBERS ABSENT: None Mr. Rickett asked if there were any corrections or addi- tions to be made to the minutes of the February 28th meeting. There being none, the minutes were approved as presented. Mr. Rickett stated that a letter had been received from Dewey Sceales, Director of Planning for the City of Bakersfield, informing the Agency that the community prerequisites had been met by the City of Bakersfield. It was announced that Mr. Bass, Agent for the Pacific In- demnity Insurance Company, had been contacted. It was felt that everyone would now be covered by the City's insurance; however, it will depend on future developments whether or not additional in- surance will be needed. Harold Bergen, City Manager, passed our copies of the survey area. Mr. Eddy was asked to bring the Agency members up-to-date on his program for the downtown area. This he did, and noted that some expression of opinion from the J.C. Penney Company will be coming sometime during the latter two weeks in April. Mr. Miller again gave a resume of the acuteness of the problem. He instructed this Agency to be most positive and aggressive in their approach to overcome the apathy now apparent; stated the first concern is whe- ther or not J.C. Penney Company can be induced to stay downtown and become the full-line department store needed in any shopping complex, because the downtown area must become competitive - revitalization must take place, and the opportunity must be there to operate suc- cessfully. Mr. Rickett asked if there was anything the Agency could do other than show general enthusiasm for the project. Mr. Miller replied that the members should appear as enthusiastic as they can when "rubbing elbows" with the public. Mrs. Ghezzi asked where the Redevelopment Agency starts. Mr. Rickett said first is organization and becoming familiar with the Law under which the Agency operates and some of its procedures. He said the Agency was, in effect, given a grant by the Downtown Busi- ness Association of a $35,000 study; this is being worked on; and we are awaiting the report of this study as it will give some indi- cation of things we need to know, and then we can get in gear and do it. Paragraph "E" of the Resolution was referred to at this point. General discussion on the recent trip to the San Bern- ardino Redevelopment Area ensued discussion covered such items as how organized, how financed, the tax involvement, etc. Mr. King stated there was nothing that this group could do between now and the time Mr. Eddy and Mr. Miller come up with their plan, and no affirmative action can be taken until their pro- ject gets off the ground. Mr. Brock said there is a definite need to encourage through new industry some additional 50,000 bodies to the Bakers- field area. He recommended something be done to get the Industrial Committee of the Chamber of Commerce going on a more definite path. Mr. Bergen for the record brought out the point that 55% of the downtown business district is public right-of-way. Some general discussion followed which included some diseussion on tax assessments in various degrees of planning. Mr. Rickett again reiterated that this Agency must wait and see what comes out of the study being made at the present time by Mr. Eddy and Mr. Miller. Mr. Rees asked Mr. Miller and Mr. Eddy to clarify what they were doing and its relationship to the Redevelopment Agency and the downtown area. Mr. Casper spoke up in his capacity as president of the Downtown Business Association and stated th~ the Revitalization Committee of the Downtown Business Association had met; the conclusion was reached on the seriousness of the downtown situation; various local merchants and land owners had personally pledge a sum of money in order that this ~udy under Mr. Eddy's and Mr. Miller's direction could be made; and the results of this~udy would be made available to the Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency. Some general discussion again followed along the line as previously discussed. Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, By: Irene Clarke, Secretary April 24, 1968 The third meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment A- gency was called to order at City Hall, at 7:40 p.m., on Wednes- day, the 24th of April, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Vincent Casper Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi John Brock Bill Lee Robert Watson MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert King Mr. Rickett asked if there were any corrections or ad- ditions to be made to the minutes of the March 27th meeting. There being none, the minutes were approved as presented. The meeting was turned over to Mr. Robert Eddy, who is heading the Task Force for the Downtown Business Association at work now for some weeks on plans for developing the downtown area. Mr. Eddy, in turn, introduced Mr. Richard Graves, Planner, and Mr. Steve Pappas, Architect from Los Angeles who also works with the architectural firm of Eddy and Paynter. Mr. Graves stated that he would not show the plans on which they have been working and which are now about to be pre- sented to the J.C. Penney Company for review. Mr. Graves, however, did discuss what was being considered, what was being done, and what should be done. He stated that the historically established business district is too large to move all at once; must work on specific a- reas that will tie together in the future as "downtown" means more than just a shopping area. His organization wants to be sure they have the best type of program before it is presented; want it to have enough impact to justify the program. Before the middle of June a report will be made to the Downtown Business Association, the City of Bakersfield, and this Agency. "In town", he said, they are speaking in terms of an air conditioned shopping mall to com- pete with Valley Plaza. Various types of buildings and their uses were discussed. Mr. Graves stated it would be very unfortunate if this program was to be delayed another year. Discussion was then held on various devices this Agency can use to obtain capital; the economic society in which it operates; how the Agency can begin to prepare its members to act with knowledge and understanding of the Agency's powers and scope; good legal coun- sel is needed; that condemnation is the last resort. Mr. Graves said this Agency must be prepared to move. The point was brought out that the Agency can not move without the City Council's approval. Mr. Graves stated that if their organization has a program and are ready to move, and this Agency is willing to help them do it and the City Council is not - "Help - there will be hell to payS". The Agency and the City Council should get a thorough understanding of what this thing is all about, and how to make the renewal work. He then stated that he hoped the Agency would now prepare itself so that when they return in about six weeks with their program they will en- counter no difficulties. Mr. Rickett thanked Mr. Graves for his presentation. At this point, John Brock asked how the Agency could prepare itself. Mr. Graves replied that the Agency needs a thoroughly competent at- torney who knows the law of urban renewal, who knows the laws of finance - there are nineteen (19) different ways to finance, and must know them all; professional planner also needed, however, full- time personnel not yet needed. Mr. Hugh Sill stated that Mr. Graves' program and plans will only be a part of the overall development. He feels that the Redevelopment Agency should, at this time, establish itself and start a program, staff itself and proceed fo institute a redevelopment plan. Any redevelopment plan needs the assistance of the City, and the City must take the attitude that this is part of their program also - right from its inception. The City should be a very definite part of the Agency; it behooves them to become interested in it, ac- cording to Mr. Sill. General discussion then followed on the City's responsibilities. Mr. Graves pointed out that it is critical to the econo- mic well-being of the whole community to redevelop the downtown area. At this point, Mr. Robert Whittemore, Councilman from the Seventh Ward, stated that he felt the City Council will work with a spirit of cooperation and provide the Agency with the initial ser- vices that are needed. Mrs. Ghezzi asked if the Agency should go before the City Council to alert them to the fact the Agency is rapidly approaching the time when help will be needed. Further discussion followed. Mr. Graves instructed the Agency members to find out what the Redevelopment Act means, what are its implicatons, etc. Stated the City Attorney should have a consultant in this particular field of law who can advise the Agency as a public matter not as a private matter - need someone who would represent the Agency, who is know- ledgeable to review the plan, and who would be able to answer the questions that will come up. According to Mr. Rickett, this Agency is going to have to have services; this has been observed from the "first day". General discussion then followed further along these same lines. Mr. Whittemore stated that this evening he is speaking as only one councilman not as a representative from the City Council. Mr. Rickett asked how the City Council should be approached. Mr. Harold Bergen, City Manager, stated that it was most important all the Council members understand what the Agency is going to do and should do; they are interested in the downtown area and in helping to finance. The City Council wants the staff to work with the Agency in any way they can; and, according to Mr. Bergen, it is most im- portant that they have an idea of how much money is being talked about. If the City Council is going to support the Agency in this matter, there must be good communication between the Council and the Agency as the Agency has an obligation to the City Council and the information must be gotten through to them. The question was asked of Mr. Graves that if the Council provides some financial assistance for this help is there anyway the Council can recover money from the tax differential. Mr. Graves replied that he could not answer this question as it is a question of law - the reason a competent attorney is needed. Vincent Casper asked if Federal Funds would be available for financing, and Mr. Graves said this pertained to Law 702 - some discussion followed. Mr. Graves stated he would have his attorney communicate with Mr. Ken Hoagland, City Attorney, on the Agency's needs, and the Planning Department working with the City Manager could come up with the necessary data. A meeting of the Agency will be called as soon as this information is available and discussion can be held. Mr. Bergen was given a formal request from the Redevelop- ment Agency to prepare an estimate of costs. Mr. Bergen replied that he would be very willing to help, but that he must reply on the existing City staff to come up with the information that the Agency needs. Mr. Graves was again thanked for his help and presentation. Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Clarke, Secretary June 26, 1968 The fourth meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment A- gency was called to order at City Hall~ at 7:40 p.m., on Wednesd- day, the 26th of June, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Vincent Casper Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi John Brock Bill Lee Robert Watson Robert King MEMBERS ABSENT: None Mr. Rickett asked if there were any corrections or ad- ditions to be made to the minutes of the April 24th meeting. There being none, the minutes were approved as presented. Mr. Rickett requested Mr. Hoagland and Mr. Bergen to give their ideas concerning methods to organize the Agency. Mr. Hoag- land replied that he had talked to Mr. Jacobs, and was advised that there was no way for the Agency to go until the Report has been re- ceived - the Report will give the direction to be taken. Mr. Ber- gen was asked if the Assistant City Manager was to act as the A- gency's Executive Director. He replied that he was reluctant to make specific assignments until there's more underway. Mr. Rickett said this Agency must have organization so when specific things are given to them to be done the Agency will be ready. Mr. Robert Mil- ler said the Report should be ready the week after the 4th of July. Mr. Bergen said the City Council had approved $5,000 in the City Attorney's budget and $10,000 in the Planning Department's budget so that these two departments could give assistance to the Agency. Discussion then followed on the how, if and when funds would be made available for whatever is needed. No definite con- clusions can be reached at this time. Mr. Rickett stated the Plan has been reported as being financially and economically feasible now must explore the business of financing this project. Mr. Brock stated that this Agency must explore the possi- bilities of what has been presented to the Downtown Business Asso- ciation. It would be ideal to have a local group as the developer, but if none available must go to the outside. Said he was open- minded; said the project has some merit, but still has some qualms about the investment; said if it doesn't cost him anything, he thinks its a "hell of a good thing"; said he was not in a position now and does not know if in 1971 he will be about to spend the type of money that will be needed for this investment. Mr. Hoagland stated he was very impressed with Mr. Jacobs; that he is going to the City Council to get a contract with Mr. Jacobs; thinks he can be very helpful. He said steps will be laid out in the Report, and will recommend nothing until this Report has been received and studied. Mr. King said the Agency needs someone who can do the coordinating; Mr. Bergen agreed. Mr. Miller, at this time, pointed out that the Redevelop- ment Agency needs a positive press during this "gray" area. Stated he is amazed at what questions come up whenever a group meets. This Agency must adopt an attitude of positiveness; someone has got to keep selling the program; must keep close to Larry Smith and Company at this time; must impress developer and tenants as well that it is a feasible financial project; there is a definite need for a public relations representative; and that the Agency has got to get going, or it is going to be too late. Suggestion was made by Mr. Bergen that maybe an Executive Director should be contracted for instead of involving the City Mana- ger's Office and the City Council. Discussion was held on the lack of enthusiasm, and the scepticism of the whole program. Mr. Rickett asked what the Downtown Business Association thinks? Mr. Casper said they were very enthusiastic; feel that things should get going; feels there are people with money waiting to see what this Agency is going to do. Mr. Miller stated this Report will show a concept. Mr. Rickett asked if Mr. Jacobs will be available to the Agency after the Report has been presented. Mr. Hoagland stated he had a contract on his desk at the present time; that Mr. Jacobs is working on numerous projects, but thinks he will be available very shortly after the Report is in - possibly within a week; the -7- x~ members should study the Report, and be ready to move; Mr. Jacobs should be on a retaining basis by next meeting. Bill Lee said the Agency must take a positive approach so they know how they stand. Mr. Casper stated the Downtown Business Association will call a Directors' meeting next week, and recommendation will be made to turn this Report over to the Redevelopment Agency so that they can get going with it. Mr. Eddy reported that Steve Pappas said the Report would be out sometime during the first two weeks in July. Mr. Hoagland asked if Mr. Jacobs was acceptable to the Agency's members. The reply was unanimously in the affirmative. Mr. Eddy said Mr. Jacobs is the No. I man in this area, according to all those contacted. Mr. Hoagland stated he had contacted many city attorneys, and they were all of the same opinion. Mr. Rickett asked Mr. Hoagland to go over the ordinances, and, if agreeable, will adopt them as the Rules of the Agency at the next meeting. The Report will be sent to all before the next called meeting. Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Clarke, Secretary July 31, 1968 The fifth meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency was called to order at 8:00 p.m., in the City Hall, on the 31st day of July, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Robert King John Brock Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi Robert Watson Bill Lee MEMBERS ABSENT: Vince Casper Mr. Rickett announced that later in the evening two motions would be presented by Mr. Jacobs who was at this time con- ferring with Mr. Clayton in the City Attorney's Office. Mr. Rickett asked if there were any corrections or ad- ditions to be made of the minutes of the June 26th meeting. There. being none, the minutes were approved as presented. Hugh Sill was introduced to the Agency members by Mr. Rickett, and was asked to present the redevelopment study made on behalf of the Revitalization Committee for the Downtown Business Association. A few points brought out by Mr. Sill were: the City of Bakersfield and interested citizens through the years have con- tracted for two reports which represents a cost to the property owners and the City of roughly $75,000.00; Bakersfield is on the threshold of something good; the downtown area is in real bad shape; this current introductory report is being presented so something can be done; said report incorporates and is an enlargement of the mall project presented to the people of Bakersfield two years ago; re- port calls for a master plan; if there is a focal point in the Bakersfield area, it is the downtown area; city has never grown from within out - too many outside areas; the need for annexations. Mr. Sill said Mr. Eugene Jacobs is a man renowned in the redevelopment ~eld, and is the man who can get this "show" on the road. Mr. Jacobs' services have been contracted for by the City of Bakersfield ~x -8-- to care for the legal aspects of the Redevelopment Agency. Mr. Sill recommended the Agency listen to Mr. Jacobs; that time is fleet- ing; that time is devastating to Bakersfield, because "we are not standing still but going backwards". Mr. Sill then formally pre- sented the report to Mr. Rickett. Mr. Rickett thanked the Downtown Business Association for making this report, and for presenting this grant to the Agency. He stated the members of the Agency can now make themselves familiar with the report, and that the Agency can now take some definite steps forward. Mr. Rickett then introduced Mr. Eugene Jacobs who has been retained through the City Attorney's Office upon authorization from the City Council to represent the City of Bakersfield and the Bakers- field Redevelopment Agency. Mr. Jacobs listed those legal steps first to be estab- lished by the Agency, and explained same: establish by-laws; establish City-Agency relationships; establish financial rela- tionships; establish basic relationships; recommended the retain- ing of one or two consultants. Mr. Jacobs presented the following motion: The Downtown Business Association be requested to submit to the City Council the report entitled "Downtown Bakersfield Renewal", dated July 1968, in adequate copies for use by the City Council, the City Planning Commission, and the City Staff. Robert King moved the motion be accepted; seconded by Bill Lee. The secretary was asked to poll by roll call; the result being an unanimous acceptance of the motion - member, Vince Casper, absent. Mr. Jacobs then presented his second motion: The Chair- man of the Agency is authorized to take all actions necessary to have the appropriate resolutions, motions, contracts, and other documents prepared for consideration and appropriate action by the Agency at its August 28, 1968 meeting to establish the Agency organ- ization, procedures, funding, consultants, and City-Agency relation- ships to proceed with the steps necessary to commence and proceed with a Central Business District redevelopment project. Discussion was held prior to voting. Robert King moved the motion be accepted; seconded by Bill Lee. The secretary was asked to poll by roll call; the result being an unanimous acceptance of the motion - member, Vince Casper, absent. Mr. Jacobs said it will be between 3~ to 5 years before ground is broken in the downtown area; it appears that the opening of the downtown area at this time could not be economically supported; dealing with land economic problems - have to find developers and stores to come in who think they can make a reasonable profit, or this kind of project will not move forward; have adequate time to do the job as long as the Agency moves along with accuracy, ration- alism, and reasonably in the early stages - must move with careful realistic steps. Mr. Jacobs stated this type of thing has only existed as a matter of law since 1941 - the first funding law started in 1945 in California, and the Federal Government started in 1949 with a very narrow program. Mr, Rickett then asked Mr. Eddy if he had any additional comments to make. His reply was "to read the report - that's all they ask". Mr. Pappas stated he had nothing to add. Mr. Robert Miller stated it is the best judgment of their entire group that Bakersfield does not get another chance; that if downtown makes the move to revitalize and create a competitive retail sector, developers will be discouraged from moving into the Bakersfield area with another major regional center in the concerned about foreseeable future; it is a case of "slow death" or'~ajor surgery" - an absolute must for downtown Bakersfield. Mr. Rickett commented that the Agency recognizes the fact that they are an agency under the governing body of the City of Bakersfield. Mr. Bergen was then asked to comment. His recom- mendation was that in addition to reading the report communicate with the City Council. -9- General discussion was then called for on the report. Mr. Bergen pointed out the importance of the City Council seeing the need. Mr. Jacobs advised not to let the City Council read about it in the next morning's newspaper. Mr. Rickett said that copies of everything will be given to the councilmen. He recom- mended that individual contacts be made to the councilman who ap- pointed and individual expressions of opinion be then given cul- minating in a joint meeting. Robert Miller said the plan would be presented to the City Council at their next Monday night's meeting; Mr. Bergen said he would then have the item placed on the agenda. Mr. Milton Miller stated it had come to his attention that at Monday's Council meeting there will be a hearing on Ten- neco's request for annexation of about 98 acres west of Oak Street and north of California Avenue for commercial development in ad- dition to asking for multiple units and residential areas going all the way down to Stockdale Highway. He raised the question of why would downtown want to invest money in the downtown area if this is going to happen. Mr. Bergen replied that it is a 400 acre annexation hearing before the Council Monday evening. Discussion then followed on the rezoning of this area with the point stressed that whether it remained in the County or came into the City the same type of zoning would be in effect so the City might as well receive the additional revenue as the County. Mr. Rickett said Mr. Miller had raised a very interest- ing question, and he felt the Agency should have some quidance. It was felt that zoning matters competitive to the Agency are of a legal concern. Mr. Jacobs said this is a very important matter, and quoted the experience of three other cities in California who had spent great deals of money getting their redevelopment plans up to culmination then to have their city rezone an area which would come into close competition, thus, wiping out the redevelop- ment plans. Mr. Jacobs said he did not know if this was what was happening here, but that it was something which should be checked out - cannot put two centers next to each other, creating them by redevelopment or rezoning, because one will not get de- veloped or they both will go broke. Mr. Pappas said the market and timing for Bakersfield's downtown development is just about right; there is a comfortable spread of time; not under pressure; at a time when no other deve- loper will think about a cen~r due to market conditions until about 1972; and have the advantage of getting a program under way which will discourage another developer coming into the area. Mr. Jacobs said the downtown was the core of everything and should be the place to go. He also said the real issue here is whether or not the economists at the time they did the local studies knew of this particular possibility; that it might not be an economically feasible plan. He stressed the importance of the economists looking at this again, and to reconsider it on these terms. He said the Agency could not stop anything, and they would be getting problems on every step of the process. Mr. Jacobs said he felt it was important to find out what Tenneco is asking for on Monday night; what are their other contingencies; what do they desire to do. Mr. Rickett thanked Milton Miller for bringing up this question, and said the Agency's consideration was to face whether or not the Agency wants to take a stand upon annexations and zon- ings that would put the downtown redevelopment into a lesser po- sition. Discussion held on this matter with the result that an adjourned meeting will be called for Monday at 5:00 p.m. At this time, a committee will present their findings to the members of the Agency. Mr. Rickett appointed Bill Lee and Robert Watson to serve with him on this committee. ~iXRI~D( - 1 O- Mr. Eddy said that Mr. Graves who was unable to be in attendance at this meeting wanted him publicly to convey the ap- preciation and expression of their group for the manner and spirit in which all the people involved in this effort have entered-- and perhaps more specifically the members of the Special Committee representing the Downtown Business Association. At 9:45 p.m., Mr. Rickett adjourned this meeting until 5:00 p.m., Monday, the 5th of August, 1968. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Clarke, Secretary August 5, 1968 The adjourned meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment Agency was called to order at 5:00 p.m., in the City Hall, on the 5th o£ August, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Vincent Casper John Brock Robert King Robert Watson Bill Lee MEMBERS ABSENT: Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi In the absence of the secretary, Mr. Guy Huffaker was requested to act as clerk. Mr. Rickett said the committee formed to review the annexation of California Avenue has submitted a written report. He asked Mr. Huffaker to read the letter of transmittal and the report to the Agency's members. Upon completion of the rea~ng, Mr. Rickett called for discussion. There being no discussion, Mr. Rickett said the next order of business would be to accept the report by making a motion asking for the adoption of this statement of position for trans- mittal to the Council. Robert King so moved; seconded by Robert Watson; motion voted upon and carried. Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rip, an By:G~~or, Clerk (corrected minutes) August 28, 1968 The sixth meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment A- gency was called to order at 7:50 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, on the 28th of August, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Robert King Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi Bill Lee Vincent Casper MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert Watson John Brock Mr. Rickett asked if there were any corrections or addi- tions to be made to the minutes of the July 31st meeting. There being none, the minutes were approved as presented. Item Three - Agency-City Basic Contract A copy of the Agency-City Basic Contract was mailed to each member. Mr. Jacobs was asked to review the basic agreement proposed for the Agency and the City. Considerable discussion followed, with Mr. Jacobs explaining the relationship that the basic agreement would establish between the Agency and the City. Mr. Rickett asked Mr. Bergen on the type of organizational setup that the City would need with this type of agreement. Mr. Bergen said, as far as the City Manager's Office was involved, he would recommend to the City Council (1) that a redevelopment division of the Manager's Office be established, and (2) accompanying this, a budget be set up for the operation of this division. This type of set-up would allow for considerable help to the Agency without large expenditure of funds. Then, if the Agency's work load developed to the extent that an executive director was needed full time, one could be appointed that would report to the Agency and would have similar status of a Department Head. Then Mr. Bergen stated he would prob- ably recommend the $10,000 presently budgeted in the Planning Divi- sion be transferred to this division. He would further recommend that the Council establish a formal committee to deal with Redevelop- ment Agency business because communication between the Council and Agency is most important. Mr. Jacobs recommended several typing corrections to be made in the agreement. Mr. King requested clarification of what powers the Agency was delegating to the City Council. Mr. Jacobs outlined what powers would be delegated by going through the contract section by section. Mr. King asked if there was any way this agreement would conflict with the seeking of Federal funds. Mr. Jacobs replied in the negative by saying the agreement was totally consistent with the Federal program. There was discussion on what action the Agency should take on the agreement. Mr. Bergen suggested that if the agreement met ap- proval of the Agency, they adopt the agreement in principle and sub- mit to the City Council for comment. Mrs. Ghezzi made a motion that the City Manager present, in its corrected form, the contract as the recommendation of the Agency to the City Council for approval and adoption. Bill Lee seconded the motion; motion voted upon and approved. Mr. Rickett then asked when this item could be placed on the City Council's agenda. Mr. Bergen replied that he could furnish copies to the Council before next Monday night's meeting; however, he was not sure that the Council would act on it Monday. It may be referred to a committee or to a special meeting of the City Council; however, he would attempt to get action and report back to the Agency before their next regular meeting. Item Four - Agency By-Laws Mr. Jacobs next reviewed for the purpose of discussion and study the Agency By-Laws. It was decided that the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month will be regular public meetings of the Redevelopment Agency with the first Tuesday of each month listed as a workshop meeting for Agency members only. This so stated in the By-Laws will comply with the requirements of the Brown Act - the import- ance of this Act being again explained by Mr. Jacobs to the mem- bers of the Agency. Mr. King moved that the By-Laws be accepted as recom- mended. Vincent Casper seconded the motion; motion voted upon, and approved. Items Five & Six - City-Agency Services Contract & City-Agency Office Space Lease Mr. Jacobs reviewed these items by stating the basic city services that will be supplied, and the basis on how the Agency will pay for them. Items Seven and Eight City Administrative Fund & City Redevelop- ment Revolving Fund Mr. Jacobs stated these were actions between the Agency and the City Council in principle. Item Nine Penney's Negotiations Since it is very important that the Agency follow the Penney approach and if possible get a verbal commitment, Mr. Rickett recommended that Mr. Robert Miller be employed by the Agency in Phase Two of the Retail Project to see if a commit- ment from Penney can be obtained at the rate of $25.00 per hour plus expenses. Mr. Miller will work through Mr. Jacobs who will bill the city for services from funds that have been set up for Mr. Jacobs through the City Attorney's Office. Mr. King moved that Mr. Miller be hired, that billing be done on a monthly basis with the Agency receiving a report on expenditures. Vincent Casper seconded the motion; motion voted upon, and approved. Mr. Miller stated that the Agency is now at the point where anchor positions (department stores for the retail complex) must be obtained, and Penney is definitely the first move. Dis- cussion then followed on how an approach would be made to Penney. Items Ten and Eleven - Freeway Status & Automotive Center Mr. Rickett stated he has had conversations with the City concerning the freeway that goes between 23rd and 24th Streets, what time table is in the offering, and to what point it now rests. There will be four auto dealers in the path of this freeway. It would be the desire to have these dealers re- locate an auto center within the Agency's survey area. It would be a recommendation that these men be asked to finance a study for such an auto center. Item Twelve - Other Business Mr. Rickett announced that a letter from John Brock had been received by Mayor Karlen. In this letter, Mr. Brock had sub- mitted his resignation as a member of the Redevelopment Agency. An appointment will be made to till this vacancy by Mayor Karlen through the City Council. Vincent Casper moved that the meeting be adjourned. At 9:45 p.m., Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Clarke, Secretary -13- ~(kk~( September 25, 1968 The seventh meeting of the Bakersfield Redevelopment A- gency was called to order at 7:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, on the 25th day of September, 1968, by Wilbur Rickett, chairman. MEMBERS PRESENT: Wilbur Rickett Vince Casper Robert Watson Mrs. Peggy Ghezzi Bill Lee MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert King Mr. Rickett asked for any corrections or additions to the minutes of the August 28th meeting. Mr. Bergen, City Manager, stated he would like to have more detailed information given under Item Three - Agency-City Basic Contract, and presented same in writ- ten form. Vince Casper moved the minutes be approved as corrected; seconded by Robert Watson; voted upon, and carried. Mr. Bergen reported the Agreement between the City of Bakersfield and the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Bakersfield had been presented to the City Council at the September 24th meet- ing. The Council made three corrections, and then adopted the Agree- ment for presentation to the Agency. After some discussion, Mr. Watson moved that the Agreement be approved as amended. Vince Cas- per seconded the motion. A unanimous vote was cast by roll call taken by the secretary - Robert King, absent. Mr. Bergen said he had made a recommendation to the Coun- cil that the Agency be assigned to the Budget Review and Finance Committee for the purpose of discussing procedures; said committee to return to the Council with a report. The Council accepted this recommendation. Upon a suggestion by Mr. Bergen, Mr. Rickett ap- pointed himself, Robert Watson and Vince Casper as an Agency com- mittee to meet with the members of the Budget Review and Finance Committee and asked that Mr. Bergen make the arrangements for such a meeting. Mr. Rickett announced that Bill Bryant, representing the Larry Smith & Company, Inc., had given a report last evening to the City Council on the economic study they made for the Downtown Bakers- field Renewal Report. At this time, Mr. Rickett asked Robert Miller to review for the Agency members Mr. Bryant's presentation. Mr. Miller gave a very thorough review, and stated that the Agency mem- bers must have vision, imagination, a desire to revitalize Downtown Bakersfield, and must become educated to the facts. Mr. Rickett thanked Mr. Miller for his report, and said the members of the Re- development Agency had certainly learned in the past six months that there is a great deal of education that must be gone through. Some discussion followed between Mr. Miller and the Agency members. Mr. Rickett next asked Mr. Watson to give a short resume of his recent trip to Inglewood where a similar undertaking is in effect. Discussion followed. Mrs. Ghezzi said she wished to add her thanks to Mr. Mil- ler for his fine presentation, and said she felt it should have been done by him at the Council meeting as the Council needs edu- cating. There being no additional business to be discussed at this time, Mr. Rickett adjourned the meeting at 8:55 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Wilbur Rickett, Chairman By: Irene Clarke, Secretary