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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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