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HomeMy WebLinkAbout11/04/05 B' A K E R S F I E L D CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE MEMORANDUM November 4, 2005 TO: H ono rable Mayor and Ci tyC FROM: Alan Tandy, City Manager .,~ / SUBJECT: General Information 1. A Special Council meeting has been set for Wednesday, November 16th at 5:15 p.m. to discuss General Plan Amendments. This meeting should help alleviate some of the overcrowding of agendas for the other two Council' meetings this month. 2. Insurance and Personnel Committee meetings this week appear to have resolved the Health Insurance issue. Thanks to all those who spent quite a lot of time on this difficult problem. 3. We received a letter from the City of Shafter agreeing to the mediator for the water issues. We are in the process of scheduling the mediation with the retired Judge. It looks like the mediation sessions would occur in January, depending on the coordination of calendars for those involved. 4. Attached is a letter from AYSO, Region 73 regarding their involvement in the proposed soccer parks. While they have opted out of the 40-acre site at Stockdale and Jewetta, they are optimistic they can reach a cooperative arrangement with the City to develop the 200-acre site for their use. 5. The October highlights for the Recreation and Parks Department are enclosed. 6. The Street Maintenance work schedule for the week of November 7th is attached. 7. Responses to Council requests are enclosed, as follows: Councilmember Benham · Information regarding the train horn noise issue; Councilmember Maq.qard · Timeline of the Mt. Vernon Avenue projects; · Refuse Metro Transfer Station MOU; · 32-ERASE problems and graffiti in Ward 3; Honorable Mayor and City Council November 4, 2005 Page 2 Councilmember Couch · Sphere of Influence boundaries; · Emergency Preparedness of the Fire Department; · Clean up of the tumbleweeds at the PG&E Plant on Rosedale Highway; · Electrical problem at Derrel's Mini Storage on Jewetta; · Hageman Flyover issues; · Dumping of dirt and concrete at certain locations; · Animal control and code enforcement concerns in a River Oaks community; · Efforts and procedures to eradicate the water hyacinth in local waterways; Councilmember Hanson · Traffic issues near St. John's Church; Councilmember Sullivan · Recycling containers; · Results of violations found behind the Petsmart store on Ming Avenue; Councilmember Scrivner · Additional information regarding graffiti violations. Attachments AT:al cc: Department Heads Pamela McCarthy, City Clerk · ~ ~ ~ -~ world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives Ootob~ 7, 2005 1S01 T~x~n Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 ARention: Alan Tandy Re: Developmem of Soccer Facilities with American Youth Soccer Organization, Region 73 Dear Mr. Tandy: For several months ~e CiW of Bakersfield and Region 73 of ~e American You~ Soccer Organization ("Region 73" herein) had been involved in discussions and negotiations reghrding: the. development.and us~ of a socce~ complex .and.re!a~ed facilities on :~Ope~ies held: by. the. CirC.(and d~si~ated f~r~'t~e,' ~ofi' 0f: r~afiofi~l :'~d'.~rk f~cilities: In'that regard, you P~e~ented-~e' Ci~ s Vidion for '~h~~ d~¢~ioP~efi~ 0:f~a'~gw' ' 200 acre~ sPots and recreation cbmple~' on~ ~e:'noah side of ~hfi High. a3". be~een Gosford Road and Ashe Road, which would have h si~ificant P°~ion of land available (50-60 acres) which could be devoted m the development of a first-rate soccer complex in cooperation with Region 73 ("Bakersfield Soccer Complex" heroin). We became, and remain, excited concerning this development for a number of reasons. For over 25 years, Region 73 has operated a premier soccer and child development prO.am for the b~nefit of thousands of Children ~om the Bakeisfield area on ~e. ~ounds of the California .State UniversiW at Bakersfield '("cSuB'? herein). Recently CSUB has elected m :develoP': domitofies and-o~er related facilities on the ~ounds now used by Region 73, and, as a result, have advised Region 73 that its use of the prope~ at CSUB will be ended over the next ~o (2) years. ~e development of ~e Bakersfield Soccer Complex provides a ~emendous oppo~niW for the CiW and Region 73 to develop a soccer complex which will allow Region 73 to continue to offer its pro.am to the families and children of Bakersfield, while, at the same time, providing facilities which can be offered for use by other compatible pro.ams and for tournaments on a local, s~tewide and national level; all'to the benefit of our mural consti~ents and 'the: communiW of Bakersfield. ~e. only. drawback :wa~' that .~e time ~h0fiz0fi ~o[' the :deVelopment ~of, the' Bakersfield- Soccer com~leX~ could be'.a' minimum..bf five (5) '~earS, :"d~pending upon available ~nding ~nd the sPeed'of d~v~iop~nt ~ ~ world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives ~~ Bakersfield '~ntion'. Alan Tandy . ~ ~: Development of Soccer Facilities with AYSO, Region/~ October 7, 2005 Page 2 Recognizing that the development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex might not solve the immediate needs of Region 73 for the intervening years, the City presented the opportunity to lease and utilize soccer fields to be developed by the City at the northeast comer of Jewetta and Stockdale Highway. The City indicated that these facilities could b~e ready within two years and would be available for lease to Region: 73 during the interim period while the Bakersfield Soccer Complex was developed.' Although the Jewetta facility is too small to accommodate the Region 73 program on a long term basis, it would certainly have provided a workable short term solution while awaiting the completion of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Inasmuch as Region 73 currently pays CSUB in excess of $60,000.00 per year for the use of fields and related parking facilities, we feel that funding is available to support such an arrangement, and we were thrilled that the opportunity would present itself to continue the program in a cohesive manner, while working towards the ultimate development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Accordingly, Region 73 was and remains prepared to move ahead with the proposals outlined by the City in our initial meeting(s). Unfortunately, you subsequently advised Region 73 that, due to budgetary constraints, the City did not have sufficient funds to develop the Jewetta facility; and, that Region 73 would have to fund the development of the Jewetta fields, as well as participating in the development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex, if we wished to use 'sUch facilities. Needless to say, Region 73 was surprised and disheartened at the suggestion that the development of both of these facilities would have to be at Region 73's expense. Although Region 73 has nearly 3,000 children who participate in its soccer program on an annual basis, it is a volunteer-based charitable organization which is self- funded through.player fees, sponsorShips and donations. While Region 73 has affected the lives of thousands of families and players in Bakersfield, and has 'a: significant economic and resource base to draw from, funding and participating in the development of two of such complexes, concurrently, would be more than Region 73 could reasonably ask of our donors, volunteers and participants. Therefore, given the City's inability to fund the development of the Jewetta facility and the limited size of such facility, Region 73 has advised the City that it must respectfully decline the opportunity to develop the Jewetta facility. Instead, Region 73 will focus all of its resources in working with the City, on a positive and aggressive basis, to develop the Bakersfield Soccer Complex at its earliest possible opportunity. In that regard, we will be advancing, through our many constituents, a request to the City, its. Council Members and staff, to make every effort to move forward and advance the world class youth soccer programs that enrich children's lives .A~l~ntion· Alan Tandy ~e: Development of Soccer Facilities with AYSO, Region 73 October 7, 2005 Page 3 development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex and related facilities as quickly as possible. RegiOn 73 remains optimistic that with the cooperation of the City, a poSitive long term arrangement can be reached to the benefit of all concerned for the timely development of the Bakersfield Soccer Complex. Region 73 is in the process of celebrating its 30th year in Bakersfield. DUring that time thousands of children and their familieS have benefited t~om the program offered by Region 73 and AYSO. It takes but a few moments at the Region 73 fields on any game day to witness the tremendous benefits that this program offers for our community and to discover the enthusiasm of the participants, both volunteers and players. We trust that the City will work with us on a positive basis in the future to maintain these benefits for our community. Sincerely yours, Regional Commissioner AYSO Region 73 Cc: Harv6y Hall, Mayor Irma Carson, Councilperson Susan Benham, Councilperson Mike Maggard, Councilperson David Couch, Councilperson Harold Hanson, Councilperson; Jacquie Sullivan, Councilperson Zack Scrivner, Councilperson Diane Hoover, Director - Recreation and Parks Donna Nelson, AYSO Area A Director Paula Ben-iz, AYSO National Board Memeber RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT OCTOBER HIGHLIGHTS: Submitted 11/04/05 We had many accomplishments in October that I wanted to provide some of the highlights: 1. Haunted Trail at Yokuts Park was a huge success with over 3,000 in attendance. This is the first year that we charged admission at $1.00 per person, and we will make adjustments for next year. 2. McMurtrey attendance in September was 853, and October increased to 1,0§2. The increase was due to an event on the plaza in addition to use by the Bakersfield Swim Club, the.Kern Divers, lap swimmers, the new water walking program, and youth water polo class. 3. Silver Creek Center served over 3,000 people last month, including classes, rentals and a promotional event called "Lights On After School." The after school program is doing well with about 36 kids attending each day. 4. The Fall brochure was mailed to 100,000 homes in mid-October, v~ith a page highlighting the Kern-River Parkway. The Fall brochure had the most hits on the city's website in the month of October, according to IT Department. 5. Martin Luther King Center offers activities for youth and adults with the fitness center being a large draw with almost 400 visits in October. Dean Jones worked the Downtown Car Show with an estimated 30,000 people in attendance and 622 cars registered. 6. We hired Gary Weaver as Our new Park Technician; his first day was October 31 st. He will be a great asset to our team. 7. I met with representatives from Bright House networks and Vefizon Wireless as potential naming sponsors of the Amphitheater. I am hoping to finalize an offer early in November. 8. Park maintenance completed' work on Panama Lane near Columbus Avenue that ' was requested by Councilmember Maggard, which was a major improvement. 9. A cross country meet for ages 5-15 was held at Yokuts Park, with 250 in attendance on October 1st. 10. Adult Fall Softball has 91 teams registered, with an estimated total attendance of players and spectators of over 15,000 per month. Total softball revenue is $131,850. STREET MAINTENANCE SECTION - WORK SCHEDULE wEEK OF November 7, 2005 Reconstructing streets in the area between North of Aubrun and East of Oswell Concrete work between 34th to Columbus from Chester to "Q" St. (CBDG) Installation of storm line at 20th and "C" st Video inspection of Gosford sewer line. Clean and resurface alleys in the area between Union and Alta Vista from Niles to Flower. MEMORANDUM CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE ~TY ~/~NAGER'S OFF~~.-r=- ~' October 27, 2005 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COU~ . ,~ FROM: VIRGINIA GENNARO,.CITY ATTORN~~ ~_~ SUBJECT: TRAIN HORN NOISE COUNCIL REFERRAL NO, 1288 COUNCILMEMBER SUE BENHAM REQUESTED STAFF REVISIT THE ISSUE OF TRAIN HORN NOISE; REPORT ON WEBSITE REGARDING THE ISSUE; DEVELOP A CONSICE, TWO PARAGRAPH INFORMATION SHEET FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION UPON INQUIRY; AND CONTACT JERRY BECKWITH REGARDING HIS CONCERN ABOUT THE TRAIN NOISE. As background, the basic premise of the train horn rule is to require trains to sound their locomotive horns at public grade crossings. Specifically, the new rule requires train horns to be sounded at every public crossing not greater that ¼ mile from the crossing and at least 15 seconds but no more that 20 seconds prior to the train entering the crossing. Since the previous rule allowed horns to be sounded at least ~ mile from the crossing and longer than 20 seconds, the new rule was designed to reduce the amount of unwanted noise within a community. Having said this, the new rule may, regrettably, have resulted in some trains in Bakersfield and Kern County utilizing their horn where perhaps they did not realize they were legally required to do so before implementation of the new rule. At the League of Cities Conference earlier this month in San Francisco, I visited, at the request of Councilmember Benham, the RCL (Railroad Controls Limited) booth. This company is located in Texas and assists cities with signal and communication services, particularly involving railroads. They are also familiar with the new train horn rule and the various options available to cities interested in reducing train horn noise. Attached to this referral is a two page sheet published by RCL that outlines some quick facts about the new train horn rule, wayside horns, and quiet zones. Although this is longer than two paragraphs, it is this information that we propose be available to the public on the City's web page since it does a good job of answering some frequently asked questions. For Council's convenience, we have summarized information about the wayside horn and quiet zones below: HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL REFERRAL TRAIN NOISE# 1288 October 27, 2005 Page 2 Wayside Horns. A wayside horn is a stationary horn system mounted at the crossing rather than on the locomotive (see picture on the RCL enclosure). It is activated by the railroad grade crossing and delivers an audible warning to motorist and pedestrians 15 seconds prior to the train's arrival at the crossing. The wayside horn is a substitute for the train horn and it can be used within or outside a quiet zone. However, the wayside horn crossing must be equipped with certain types of equipment, the railroad must adopt an operating rule or bulletin or special instruction about the wayside horn, it must provide a minimum sound level of a certain decibel rating and the horn system must sound at a minimum of 15 seconds prior to the trains arrival at the crossing. It is the City's responsibility for installing wayside horns at grade crossings, the City's responsibility to maintain, and the City's responsibility from a liability standpoint, should anything go wrong at crossings with wayside horns. Quiet Zone. A quiet zone is a section of a rail line at which a locomotion horn is not routinely sounded at a public crossing. One of the basic requirements of a quiet zone, is that flashing lights and gates with a constant warning time train detention circuitry be installed at each public crossing within the quiet zone. Once all crossings within the quiet zone have been treated as such, the routine sounding of train horns may be eliminated. Based upon my conversations with the experts at RCL, it is my understanding that in order to accomplish a qualified quiet zone, all public crossings within the City of Bakersfield must be converted to a quiet zone in order to show that the risk associated with a quiet zone falls below what the average risk per public crossing. Similar to wayside horns, the City of Bakersfield must bear the costs associated with the creation of quiet zones, including installation of certain equipment at each crossing, the cost maintenance, and any liability associated with the modified crossing. In conclusion, if City Council is interested in either of the above options, further cost analysis must be done. From a legal perspective however, and in conjunction with my discussions with RCL, it is clear that erecting wayside horns and/or creating quiet zones will increase our exposure to liability in the area of public railroad crossings--an area where, to date, we have avoided since we have no control over railroad crossings. The City Attorney's office is more than willing to consider ideas to reduce train horn noise. However, the issue is complicated by the fact that we are bound by federal regulations which are very costly to implement and require us to assume additional liability. YG:do attachments S:\COUNCIL\Referrals\05-06 Referrais\Benham\Train Noise 2.doc Railroad Controls Limited What is a Quiet ZOne? L~ading the Way in Quiet Zone Solutions What is a Quiet Zone? ,,- :" A quiet zone is a section of a rail line that contains one or more consecutive public crossings at which locomotive horns are not routinely sounded. Why has the FRA issued the ~Train Horn Four Types of Quiet Zones' Rule? · Pre-Rule Quiet Zones: · To require trains to sound a.locomotive horn at public Areas without train horns on October 9, 1996 and on grade crossings .,. December 18, 2003 · To permit the creation of Quiet Zon% · Intermediate Quiet Zones: · To promote quality of life without compromising Areas without train horns after October 9, 1996 and before safety '. ' "' December 18, 2003' FRA Final Rule · New Quiet Zones: · Issued 4/27/05 Quiet Zones that do not qualify as Pre-Rule or Intem~ediate · Rule becomes effective 6/24/05 Quiet Zones · Requires horns to be sounded to warn motorists at · Partial Quiet Zones: public croisings A Quiet Zone where the train horns are not routinely · Provides exceptions where risk is minimized · Enables communities to establish quiet zones by ', sounded for a specified period of time during the' reducing the risk caused by lack of homs ~ evening and/or nighttime hours (l 0pm-7am). Changes in Train Horn Requirements SSM - Supplemental Safety Measures Requires the sounding of locomotive horns when · Temporary Closures approaching every public crossing (replacing state law) · Four-Quadrant Gates · The horn shall be sounded no greater than 'A mile from · Gates with Medians or Channelization Devices the crossing and at least 15 seconds, but no more than · One-way Streets with Gates 20 seconds, prior to the train entering the crossing. · Sec. 229.129 defines minimum and maximum train Wayside HOrn horn decibellevels(96dB-l10dB) A stationary horn located at a highway-rail ~ade crossing, designed to provide, upon the approach of a Who Can Establish a Quiet Zone? locomotive or train, attdible warning to oncoming · Public authority with jurisdiction for the roadway at motorists of the approach of a train. the crossing · One-for-one substitute for the train horn · If the Quiet Zone includes more than one public· .Can be used within or outside ora QZ authority, all agencies must agree and actions must be · Simplest way to reduce train horn noise since taken jointly a QZ is not required · Quiet Zones may be established irrespective of Considerations for use of Wayside Horns state law · Temporary closure is not feasible · Not enough distance to implement raised medians How are Quiet Zones Created? · One-way street is not'a viable alternative kocal governments will have two ways of creating · Cost of four-quadrant gates is prohibitive a quiet zone: · Cost effective for the community · Show that the lack of the horn does not pose a significant safety risk · Implement safety measures such as SSrvls or wayside horns to reduce excess risk associated with no horn ASM - Alternative Safety Measures Nationwide Significant Risk Threshold , Non-complying SSMs (NSRT) · Engineering ASMs The number reflecting a measure of risk, calculated on a · Programmed Enforcement nationwide basis, which reflects the average level of risk · Public Education and Awareness ,to the motoring public at public 'highway-rail' grade crossings equipped with flashing lights and gates and at · Photo Enforcement (state law must alloW) which locomotive horns are sounded. · Effectiveness is monitored for the next two calendar · quarters and every, second quarter thereafter Non-traversable Curb · May be reduced to one qtr/yr after 5 years A highway curb designed to discourage a motor vehicle from leaving the roadway. Non-traversable curbs are Preparation for Quiet Zone Analysis used at locations xvhere highway speeds do not exceed 40 · miles per hour. The curbs must be at least six inches · Verify AADTs and train counts high. · Verify collision data · Verify Crossine Warning Circuitry One Way Street with Gate(s) ~ Gate(s) must be installed such that all approaching · Review closure options highway lanes to the public highway-rail grade crossing · Develop conceptual drawings and cost for are completely blocked. each alternative for each crossing Quiet Zone Risk Index (QZRI) · Develop matrix to analyze pros and cons of The measure of risk to the motoring public which reflects each alternative the Crossing Corridor Risk Index for a Quiet Zone (if Terminology horns are presently sounded at the crossings) and reduced ~ risk due to implementation, if any, of SSMs and ASMs Alternative Safety Measures (ASM) within the Quiet Zone. A safetw' system or procedure, other than an SSM, establighed in accordance with this part which is provided Risk Index With Horns (RIWH) by the appropriate traffic control authority or law The measure of risk to the motoring public when enforcement authority and which, after individual reviexv locomotive horns are routinely sounded at every public and analysis by the Associate Administrator, is determined highway-rail grade crossing within a quiet zone. to be an effective substitute for the locomotive horn in the prevention of highway-rail casualties at specific highway- Supplementary Safety Measure (SSM) rail grade crossings. A safety system or procedure established in accordance with this part which is provided by the appropriate traffic control Channelization Device authority or law enforcement authority responsible for A traffic separation system made up of a raised safety at the highway-rail grade crossing, that is determined longitudinal channelizer, with vertical panels or tubular by the Associate Administrator to be an effective substitute delineators attached, that is placed between opposing for the locomotive horn in the prevention of highway-rail highway lanes designed to alert or ~uide traffic around an casualties. Appendix A of this part lists such SSMs. · obstacle or to direct traffic in a particular direction. Temporary Closure Crossing Corridor Risk Index (CCRI) Designed to provide for a Partial Quiet Zone. required The number reflecting a measure Of risk to the motoring tinder the new FR.& train horn rule. allowing train horns public at public gl'adc crossings along a rail corridor, not to be routinely sounded during certain hours of the day calculated in accordance with the procedures in Appendix (10pm-7am) by eliminating vehicular access to the D of the F.RA's Train Horn Rule document, representing crossing. the average risk at each public crossing within the corridor. This risk level is deternfined by averaging Wayside Horn among ail public crossings within the corridor, the product A stationary horn located at a highway-rairl grade crossing. of the number of predicted collisions per .,,'ear and the designed to provide, upon the approach of a locomotive or predicted likelihood and severity 6f casualties resulting train, audible warning to oncoming motorists of the lycra those collisions at each public crossing with the approach cfa train. corridor. Four-Quadrant Gate System For More information on Quiet .Zones A svstem of gates designed to provide a fnll closure of please visit our website at wwxx.rai!roadcontrols.com the crossing eliminating the opportunity, to drive around a or contact us at (817) 820-6300 single lowered gate. Quiet Zones What Solution is Right for you? Leading the way.. in quiet zone solutions What is a Quiet Zone? A Quiet Zone is a segment ora rail line, within which is situated one or a number of consecutive public highway-raj crossings at which locomotive horns are not routinely sounded. Wayside Horns and Supplemental Safety Measures Wayside Horns Stationa~' horn system activated by the railroad-highway grade crossing warning system, mounted at the crossing. rather than on the locomotive, to deliver an audible wa~ifig to motorists and pedestrians. · One-for-one substitute for the train horn · Can be used within or outside of a Quiet Zone · Simplest way to reduce train horn noise since a Quiet Zone is not required Requirements: 1. The railroad crossing must be equipped with Constant Warning Time Circuitry, a Power Out Indicator, gates and flashing lights. 2. The crossing must have an indicator to noti$~ the train crew of the status of the system. 3. The railroad must adopt an operating rule, bulletin, or special instruction. 4. The horn system must provide a minimum sound level of 92 dB(A) when measured 100 feet f~om the centerline of the nearest track. 5. The horn system must sound at a minimum of 15 seconds Prior to the train's arrival at the crossing. 6. The horn shall be directed toward approaching traffic. Considerations for use of Wayside Horns · Temporary closure is not feasible. I ~ · There is not enough distance to implement a channelization device or a non,traversable curb. · A one-way street is not a viable alternative. · The cost of tour-quadrant gates 'is prohibitive. · Cost effective for the community / Installing Wayside Horns Outside of a'Quiet Zone A railroad or public authoriD install.lng a wa?'side horn at a grade crossing located outside a quiet zone shall provide written notice of installation to the tblloxving parties: all railroads operating over the public 'highway-rail grade crossing, the highway or traffic control authori~' or law enforcement authority having control over vehicular traffic at the crossing, the State agency responsible for grade crossing safety, the State agency responsible for highway and road safety, and the .Associate Administrator. This notice shall provide the date on which the wayside horn will be operational and identi6,,' the grade crossing .at which the Wayside horn shall be installed by both the Li.S. DOT National Highway-Rail Grade Crossinv, Inventor' Number and street or highxva'y name. The raih'oad or public authority shall prox ide nt~tific~tion of the operationa~ date at least 21 days in advance. Four-Quadrant Gate System Install gates at a crossing sufficient to fully block highway traffic from entering the crossing when the gates are lowered, including at least one gate for each direction of'traffic on each approach. .,! Effectiveness: Four-quadrant gates only, no presence detection: .82 Four-quadrant gates only', with presence detection: .77 Four-quadrant gates xvith traffic channelization of at least 60 feet, (with or without presence detection): .92 Requirements: Four-quadrant gate' systems shall conform to the standards for four-quadrant gates contained in the MuTCD and shall,' in addition. Comply xvith the following: I. When a train is approaching, all h'ighway approach and exit lanes on both sides of the highwav-rail crossing must be spanned b,x' gates. 2. The railroad crossing must be equipped with Constant Warning Time Circuitry and Power Out Indicator. 3. If medians are not present, the gap be~veen the ends of the entrance and exit gates (,,,,'hen the gates are lowered) must be less than tv,-o feet. If equipped with a median or a channelization device between the approach and exit lanes, the lowered · gates must reach to within one foot of the median or channelization device. Gates With Medians or Channelization Devices Install medians or channelization devices on both highway approaches to a public highway-rail grade crossing denying highway users the option of circumventing the approach lane gates by switching into the opposing (oncoming) traffic lane and driving around the lowered gates to cross the tracks. Effectiveness: Channelization De~ ice channelization devices--.75 .... "- - -.',.¥~' .:~"..' inon-traversable curbs With or without channeliz,ation devices--.$0  Requirements: I. Opposing traffic lanes on both highway approaches to the crossing must be separated by either: (I) medians bounded bx non-traversable curbs or (2) channelization devices. "~"""='~-'"'~i5:7~;'S"~ "~' ~~ 2. Medians or channelization devices must extend at least 100 feet from : :,:<.~!~~ i ~.'._.~.-IIi i:iiii ~i~.. !i!i ii the gate arm, or ifthere is an intersection within 100 feet of tl~e gate, the i .", · median OF channelization device must extend at least 60 feet t'rom the . ' .... ': '5:: : gate arm. ........ :'-:~"-,:~::::.'! 3. Intersections of t,.vo or more streets, or a street and an alley, that are Median xvitbin 60 feet of the~'-zate arm must be closed or relocated. 4. The railroad crossing must be equipped with Constant Warnine Time Circuitry. a Poxver Out Indicator, cares and flashino lights. ~ ~ .= 5. The gap betxveen the Iox~ered ?.re and the curb or channelization device must be one tbot or less. 6. "Break-axvav" channelizaiioa devices must be frequently monitored to replace broken elements. Temporary Closures Close the crossing to highway traffic during designated quiet periods. (This SSM can only be implemented within Partial Quiet Zones.) Effectiveness: 1.0 Requirements: I. The closure system must completely block highway traffic on all :<"':' .................. :'- ' ' approach lanes to the crossing. 2. The closure system must completely block adjacent pedestrian crossings. '3. The crossing shall be closed from 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. every day. 4. Barricades and signs shall conform to the standards contained in the MUTCD. 5. Daily activation and deactivation of the system is the' responsibility of the public authority.' 6. The system must be tamper and vandal resistant 7. The closure system shall.be equipped with a monitoring device that contains an indicator which is visible to the train crew prior to entering the crossing. The indicator shall illuminate whenever the closure device is deployed. Permanent Closure of a pUblic Highway- Rail Grade Crossing Permanently close the crossing to h'ighway traffic. Effectiveness: 1.0' Requirements: I. The closure system must completely block highway traffic from entering the grade crossing. 2. Barricades and Signs used for closure of the roadway shall contbrm to the standards contained in the MUTCD. 3. The closure system must be tamper and vandal resistant. One Way Street v 'ith Gate(s) ~:': :-¥~ ~:~t to the public high,ray-rail grade crossing are completely blocked. ~ ~ Effectiveness: .82 Requirements: ' } ~,,~,}~ ~}~Qf.-' :;:~?~r~_ - ~ 1. Gate arms on the approach side 0f the crossing should extend ,~:..~'g:;::~'¥'~.~,~'<z:..::c-~ ' . · '.' ' ,.~. across the road to within one foot of the thr edge_ of the pavement. ....... ~ ............ ' ......... ' - ~ of the gates, when both are in the Ioxvered or down position, must - ..-. = ./ not be more than txvo feet. ' ' If only one gate is used. the edee of the road opposite the 2ate · ' : .... -'::-.-'.'-:-.' ' · }~ mechanism must be configured with a non-traversable curb 3. The railroad crossing must be equipped with Constant Warning Time Circuit~T. a Power Out Indicator. gates and flashine lights. Quiet Zone Solutions Work Sheet Street Name: DOT#: All Operating Railroads: I. Is the crossing equipped with lights & gates? [] Yes [] No 2. Is the crossing equipped with CWT (Constant Warning Time) & POI (Power Out Indicator)? To obtain this information, contact the owning railroad. [] Yes [] No If no, then crossing warning upgrades will be required to establish a Quiet Zone or the crossing will have to be closed.· Possible Solution? [] Yes [] No Permanent Closure Can the crossing·be permanently closed? [] Yes [] No Temporary Closure Can the crossine be closed at night (10:00 P.M. - 7:00 A.M.)? [] Yes [] No one Way Street Can the street at the crossing be converted to a one-way street? [] Yes [] No Median Barrier Is there an intersection] on either side, within 60' of the railroad crossing gate'? Is there a commercial driveway, on either side: that cannot be relocated or closed, within 60' of the railroad crossine~ ~ate.o '~ . Is there a private driveway, on either side. that cannot be relocated, closed, or reconfieured as a rieht- in-right-out, within 100' of the railroad crossing gate? * If you have answered No to alii of the above questions, then median barriers may be a viable Quiet Zone solution foryour crossing. [] Yes [] No Four Quadrant Gates Are there any physical obstructions or limitations to the installation of exit gates'? [-I.Yes [] No Wayside Horns Are there any physical obstructions or limitations to the installation of Wa.~ side Horns7 F~or more information on Quiet Zones. please contact RCL at (8173 820-6300 or visit our web site at xvxx xv.railroadcontrols.com Railroad Contiol$ Limited Le~din~.,~he w::v in qtti'et ~te $olzttions Page 1 of 1 Rhonda Smiley - referral From: Ginny Gennaro To: Pam McCarthy; Rhonda Smiley Date: 10/31/2005 10:08 AM Subject: referral CC: Delores Oldham This is from Councilmember Benham: Mr. Beckwith's home phone is 323-6781. His work phone (Log Cabin Florist) is 327-8646. It's OK to release the referral, but I do want Mr. Beckwith to be contacted. Thanks, Sue I will contact Mr. Beckwith today and presume the referral is now consider closed... file://C:~Documents and Settings~rsmiley~Local Settings\Temp\GW}00001.HTM 11/1/2005 B A K E R S F I E L D PlTYi~']^NAgE~'S©FF',CTr: CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Directo~_~_____~/-- DATE: October 28, 2005 SUBJECT: MOUNT VERNON STREET PROJECTS Referral No. 1300 (Meeting-10/12/05) VICE-MAYOR MAGGARD REQUESTED STAFF DETERMINE WHETHER THE MOUNTI- VERNON STREET PROJECTS CAN AVOID BEING MOVED TO THE NEXT CYCLE. I Recent memos and letters regarding delays in pavement projects have dealt with the contract that was awarded to Griffith Company in August 2005. That contract does not include the pavement reconstruction project on Mt. Vernon Avenue, between University Avenue and Panorama Drive. Staff apologizes for any confusion that resulted from those recent memos and letters. The Mt. Vernon Avenue project has been scheduled for construction in late May / early June, 2006, in between Bakersfield College's semesters so as to reduce the project's impact on traffic. Staff is currently designing the project. The project schedule includes award of a construction contract at a City Council meeting in February 2006. G:\GROUPDAT~RefermlsX2005\I0-12LRef#1300 Mt.Vernon Street Projects.doc B A K E R S F I E L D CITY OF BAKERSFIELD ' ' PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director DATE: October 28, 2005 SUBJECT: REFUSE METRO TRANSFER STATION MOU Referral No. 1323 (10126/05) VICE-MAYOR MAGGARD REFERRED TO BUDGET AND FINANCE THE ISSUE OF EXPANDING REFUSE SERVICES AS THE CITY GROWS. COMMITTEE SHOULD EVALUATE THE ECONOMIC BENEFIT AND PRIVATE HAULERS. Staff has added this subject as an agenda item for the Budget and Finance Committee meeting to be held on November 7, 2005 at 10 am. G:\GROUPDAT~Referrals\2005\10-26\Ref#1323 Expanding Refuse Srv.doc B A K E R S F I E L D CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director DATE: October 28, 2005 ' SUBJECT: 32-ERASE PROBLEMS & GRAFFITI IN WARD 3 Referral No. 1324 (10/26105) VICE-MAYOR MAGGARD REQUESTED STAFF ADDRESS CONCERNS REGARDING THE ACCESSABILITY OF THE 32ERASE HOT LINE AND REPORT BACK TO COUNCIL, ADDITIONALLY, NEED GRAFFITI REMOVAL IN THE AREA BETWEEN AUBURN AND BERNARD ON OSWELL AND NEAR UNIVERSITY AND COLUMBUS. The 32-ERASE graffiti removal hotline has recently been upgraded and placed onto the city's phone system. At the same time, the hotline added a bilingual option. Citizens using the hotline are able to Choose the English version or the Spanish version by selecting 1 for English or 2 for Spanish. Staff has tested the hotline, fine tuned the system, and is satisfied the 32-ERASE graffiti removal hotline is working as it is designed. It takes approximately 1 minute from the time the call is answered for the caller to be able to record a message. This new system has increased our capacity for recording calls. The old message machine could only record around 20 messages. During the weekend of October 28th through October 31st, the new system recorded 42 calls. The graffiti on OsWell between Auburn and Bernard was removed on November 1st. The crew worked closely with the businesses in the Country Club Shopping Plaza (Oswell between Auburn and Hwy 178) and recruited adopt a wall volunteers. The graffiti near University and Columbus was removed on November 2ha. G:\GROUPDAT~Referrals\2005\10-26\Ref#1324 32-ERASE (Ward 3).doc OCT 3 1 2005 '7~TY ~'V',N-~.~q'.g C'FT? B A K E R S F I E L D MEMORANDUM TO: ALAN TANDY, CITY MANAGER FROM: .~TANLEY C. GRADY, DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR DATE: October 31, 2005 SUBJECT: SPHERE OF INFLUENCE BOUNDARIES Council Referral No~ Ref001286 COUNCILMEMBER COUCH ASKED STAFF TO REPORT ON THE FEASIBILITY OF THE METROPOLITAN BOUNDARY BEING THE SAME AS THE SPHERE OF INFLUENCE BOUNDARY. An application to amend the sphere of influence was submitted to LAFCO on October 25, 2005. If approved, with the exception of the Lamont area and Oildale, the boundary would be the same as the metropolitan plan area. The authority to make the metro plan boundary the same as the sphere of influence is vested in LAFCO. Ultimately, the LAFCO Commission will make the decision when they hear the application in November of this year. SG:djl P:\CCReferral\Ref1286.doc B A K E 'R S F I E L D FIRE DEPARTMENT To: Alan Tandy, City Manager From: Ron Fraze, Fire Chief "~,I~ Date: November 1,2005 Subject: Emergency Preparedness Council Referral No. 1308 Councilmember Couch referred to the Fire Department correspondence regarding emergency preparedness and requested staff prepare a response. I have reviewed the letter from Mr. AIImon, retired County Battalion Chief, regarding the emergency response preparedness of the Bakersfield Fire Department, the City of Bakersfield and other local first responders. I disagree with Mr. AIImon's opinion; therefore, I've provided a short counterpoint to his assumptions. Bakersfield Fire and Police Departments, as well 'as other local area first responders, have routinely trained and prepared for the management of large scale disasters. Over the last several years and particularly since September 11, 2001, emergency preparedness training has increased for our City, as well as every other City in the nation. The letter refers to the failed emergency response system during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. This failure was due in part to their lack of an organized response system designed to coordinate mitigation efforts between local, state, and federal entities. However, all emergency responders in California are part of the California Master Mutual Aid System. This system, which is comprised of six regions and sixty- five operational areas, is designed to provide rapid and organized mutual aid responses to major emergencies. This process plays out every year during state-wide responses to earthquakes, floods, riots, and other disasters - not just brush fires. This is a state-wide system, not exclusive to one agency. Council Referral No. 1308 Page 2 The common or generally accepted practice in the Fire Service is the utilization of the Incident Command System (ICS). The letter implies that the ICS is something that is only understood by experts. Any Firefighter from any California fire agency should be able to explain the Incident Command process. ICS training is pervasive throughout the Fire Service training curriculum and is the standard for incident command on ANY size of incident. The letter also suggests there is some local failure or weakness in terms of incident management. In fact, Wednesday, October 26, 2005, the Bakersfield Fire Department, Police Department, and other local area first responders participated in a Multi-Casualty Incident (MCI) drill. We practiced the interoperability between local first responders and simultaneously exercised most of the ICS components the letter notes as being important. Further, the ICS process, including unified command and all appropriate sub-components, will be utilized locally in the event of a large scale emergency and will dovetail into a state response in accordance with the Standardized Emergency Management. System (SEMS) and the National Incident Management System (NIMS). The statement made in the letter that a "fire department with wildland responsibility is the only agency, outside of the military, that can routinely handle large incidents" is unfounded. The Los Angeles City Fire Department is one of the largest metropolitan, non-wildland, agencies in the world, and yet is tasked with authority over an OES Operational Area. The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) is non-wildland and is second to none in terms of responsibility for dealing with large scale emergencies. The Bakersfield Fire Department, non-wildland, has successfully operated and managed incidents in the metro area for 130 years. These are City Fire Departments that view their most important priority as life and property - not brush - and are completely trained and capable in incident management. The reality is these agencies utilize ICS in complex situations on a frequent basis. I assure you the Bakersfield Fire Department is well versed in the Incident Command System and is very capable of handling a major incident within our jurisdiction. Mr..DaVid Couch CityCouncilman FOurth'Ward September 1 I, 2005 Dear'Mr, ,,Couch: I am submitting an article tO the' Bakersfield Californian,regarding emergency preparedness. I'w~nted you to have some advance warning, AlthOUgh tbe article, is not a negative .one :,it may raise somequestions.:that I hope wi!l be addressed. I taught Emergency Preparedness, Large Incident Management, The Incident'Command System and,Fire command to hun~':6f firefighters throughoU~ the United. States while working for:tho<!Nafi0nalFire Aeadomy. It has be~n my observation that disaster management often,fails not beeanse there.are not,qualified personnel available, but rather because: these ~qualified people, are' nOt given positions: of authority. ,As my article,states~ theii0nly agency in the.'United States thathas reeumng and:frequent Incidents that reqmre managing hundreds of personnel to mitigate a problem, are.~tlie Fire · Departments. that. have.responsibility for wild' land fires: !.thought of you as one that woUld understand,thisconeept: I:would like< to. discuss emergency.pre~ and.emergency management oflarge incidents with you so that I .may pass on some of the.lessons I have leamedover the past twentY-fiVe years. Si~. r y Cliff~lmon Cliff~lmon 83i<~i0i ' Emergency Preparedness I read with some interest thearticle in the Bakersfield Californian on. September 11 · regardingthe status OfOur/ocal ~re~ess incase ofa. majOr disasterl -,The eXact. ~ .~,~S~es, madeinthe, recent iNeWOrieans disaster that brought needles death and.;chaos arebeing PractiCed righ't here inKem County. The only agency in:the county th'eXpeaen%,.:t" n k w edge o,m atea'major so;,d.is lawi a r d,r role.: :'The. ofilYr~ngmajor disaster' in'the United;States :that .occurs frequently enough, to' : train:pcrS.onne! i in'the an'of largo,mcident management.is. ~e. Wild land fire.~ It is routine :for:f~re dePOrtments. With.Wild land fire reSponSibility replace hundre, ds or thousands of · PeoPle on ',~ .~se.:assi~ts.to control:' them~ The .sldll ~of large .incident management has bcenpracticod androfintxtfOr.over s~v~ntyzfive 'y~'on thousands, of incidents by tens A whole management.system;. The InCident ..Command System~ was' developed, thOUSands of personnel trained, :years' of experience gained_, and' special equipment developed to mitigate these, complexinCidents.., Key.personnel are provided training, in Pliinning, Logistics; Operations and Finance, ~ the functions necessary toeffectively managea large incident. The.tim.department With Wild land fire responsibility is the'only:agency, outside.the military, that can-. routinely handle :these-large. incidents,. Throu~:the National Fire. AC~ ~.~my'I had :the privilege-to' train dozens of the-leaders of the largest fire'departments in'.the' United States~ in large, tnciderit Management. In.th~ two.Weeks we spent togetherthey received the.basics necessary to manage a large scale incident¥of anY.type. They' learned how to. organize .large numberS, of resources, with. the' aid.of the Incident Command System; They':leamedthe.concept of UnifiedCommand, where, seVeral ag¢0¢ies sharing jurisdictional responsibility,: can be brought.tog~thertoarrive at common ~d',~9~y:benefici~. g~si.:~,~,~ d allow The Inc!den. t Commander to carry: out ;those goals;: they:!eamed the im~cei 0fgood c0mm~cafion on the incident anal.h0w to keep trackofresources; .They. were mght:.to..use: good management principles,The': importance .of Unity of command;:.sPanof Control, and A .mhori!y Commensurate With Responsibility. They were.taught the:importance, of utilizing the :ICS concepts .of resource, management, i.e. Strike Tea_ms, Trak Forces, organize with Branches, Divisions, Groups etc. so. supervisory personnel could managelarge numbers of resources' without exceeding their span of contr0[':In Short'they .were Iaught to'.manage large': numbers: of personnel. :Several ofmy :s ~dents were from the' New 0rleans Fire Department, I..know for a fact, had'~they been. given mom'.responsibility, 'the organization of resources.in':New Orleans ~wOuld have been.greatly,improved;. Under the ICS key.persormel:are sent to schools and ClaSses where.they learn'their Wade. They s_~Cialize:in.their :respective assignments. An example W°uld be'the Logistics Chief- He.is responsibleforsettingupthe incident camp;, f~eding sheltering;:purChaSing and equippingall those working on theassignment. He.is taught how to contact purveyors, set up'reefer tracks, P0~le shoWerS etC~ Food purveyors arc identified, radio caches, sourcesofbat'aries, specialized equipment; anything and ever~hingis: pre- lOCated.. The same approachis :,fOllowed:in all the:key positions ortho ICS'. The.Plans section haS its ownscho01sasdo the Finance and .OPerations .SectiOns.. Each section qualifies its ~ ~.s~zo porsonnol through schoolS.and on the job'~training; Thc ~nnoI ceaified can dO. thejob. Fire departments, especially~thosc with wild land,fire responsibilities., have been practicing this pre~tion for Seventy,five years; :they..have dozens of~ personnel cross 'trainedin~the key positions: The peoPle:qualified to.be'the Incident Commander have gone :tl~Ough .the chairs, so to speak.. They. will have served in several ca.l~citi~s .in the ICS; probabiy P~,plus several ~sitio~.iin theOPerations Sectionl ~~ peOple have been.on numerous.incidents, countless.: classes and'SChoolsand must have shown superior leadership: abilitieS. In Kern county.~e~¢.are, fo~potentiall m g~:jor natural disaSters. Ea--rthquake, fire, flood and hurricane~(don t 'forg~t:itlie 1977hurricane that brought: 100 mphwinds 'into Kem ,county for over.148 ~i~hoUrS)! ......... . . . . . Eachand everyone O~these dieters canand'shoUld be manag~ with thc ICS. It is the onlY.sYstem, out Side the'iMilitary, d~signedi:to manage the'large nUmbers '0~ perS°nnq ~requiredto'mitigate thee !arge,ifici~tg;.iit is..~e onlyisystcm~that haspersonnel, tra~ed; e penenced and ready to~deploy.ona moments-nouce; It:.~s.the only management'syStem, through &e'~nified. C0~d 'Coi~ce~'~at is designed'tothwart the turf. wars: that .inevi~bly:arise When mulfi'j~cti0nsg~iir!volV~ C0unty andci~ 0~Ci~s.~e c~r~Y revie~ng dis~ter:prepare~ss plans, for the counF. and city; Thisis '.wondorfUl'opporumitY to look a the Unified Command .C0ncept and't0 establish the-COmmunications betWeen.the jurisdiCtions.involved so necessary when a major disa~s~ ter:~s~i .Thee opportunity also is.right to look into the 'operati°mt:P~ and:to:pu~ the'.ageucy.most qualified to carry, oUt.th_at:plan, in charge: The ~problems.that were soevident,in New:orleans-lack of co ~mmUnication; turf battles; poor uti!ization °fresources; no single person incharge of:operations; complete lack of Public. Information; Ail couid have b~n solved had oneagenCy,'with a thorOUgh knowledge of the ICS, beenmade responsible. CoUnty :and,city.officials iwould do 'well!to give the pros~ thOSe WhOeffective!y man~ idisas?rs.m~h,:and every: summer~ more res~onSibiii~ i~ themanagemen~ of ir~soUrc~s ;in a majordisaste, r. Instructor at Nati°~l Fire Academy.for ;1' SpeCi~c! irii~ge Inoidcnt.~ment, Emergency preparedness, ~i~t Command System,~ and .Fire' TactiCs~ Chiefofficer for Kern County.Fire for'20 Years, Ph:83.1' 9101 B A K E R S F I E L D CITY OF BAKERSFIELD ' PUBLICWORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM "-V ~ ~.~ .~I ~ ~ ~_ ,'.-q o.,-~ :'.o": TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director ,,~ ~ DATE: October 24, 2005 SUBJECT: TUMBLEWEEDS AT PG&E PLANT Referral No. 1304 COUNCILMEMBER COUCH REQUESTED STAFF ASSIST THE PROPERTY OWNER WITH THE TUMBLEWEEDS BLOWING ONTO THE PG&E PLANT PROPERTY AT ROSEDALE AND GOSFORD. STAFF TO CONTACT FRANK TECHENIQUE. Staff contacted Mr. Techenique to get details on the problem. The edges of the property along Rosedale and Coffee Road outside the perimeter fence were cleaned up by the Parks Department recently. The problem is that the main property has tumbleweeds growing on it inside the fence. The Code Enforcement Division has contacted the property owner (PG&E) with a notice to abate the weed and debris problem. C:\DOCUME~1\Iskinner~LOCALS~1\Temp\Ref~1304 Tumbleweeds at PG&E Plant.doc B A K E R S F I E L D CITY OF BAKERSFIELD ', PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director ~ DATE: October 28, 2005 SUBJECT: ELECTRICAL PROBLEM @ DERREL'S JEWETTA Referral No. 1314 (10/26/05) ***DUAL REFERRAL TO BUILDING-CODE ENFORCEMENT & PUBLIC WORKS*** COUNCILMEMBER COUCH REQUESTED CODE 'ENFORCEMENT CHECK THE ELECTRICAL LINES IN FRONT OF THE DERREL'S MINI STORAGE ON STOCKDALE AT JEWETTA AND ASSURE THAT IT MEETS CODE. PUBLIC WORKS IS REQUESTED TO EVALUATE THE ELIGIBILITY OF USE OF P.G. & E. DOLLARS FOR UNDERGROUNDING. The permanent power lines in this stretch of Stockdale Highway have already been placed underground. The only remaining power lines above ground are temporary power lines placed for the construction of The Park at Riverwalk. These temporary poles were placed by Andy Gump on behalf of S.C. Anderson for the park construction project. It is anticipated that Andy Gump will be removing these temporary power poles at the conclusion of the park construction project. The removal of the temporary poles is not eligible for a Rule 20A PG&E undergrounding project. C:\DOCUME~1\lskinner~LOCALS~1\Temp\Ref~1314 Derrel's Jewetta.doc B A K E R S F I E L MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: ~)g~anley Grady, Development Services Director DATE: November 2, 2005 SUBJECT: Re: Electrical Problem at Derrel's Mini Storage on Stockdale and Jewetta. Referral # 1314 Councilmember Couch requested Code Enforcement to check the electrical lines in front of the Derrel's Mini Storage on Stockdale at Jewetta and assure that it meets code. On November 2, 2005 at approximately 10:15 a.m., Code Enforcement Officers responded to a concern regarding an electrical hazard at Stockdale and Jewetta. Upon arrival, the Code Officers observed a series of set temporary power poles and electrical panels in the general vicinity of the south side of Stockdale Hwy south of Jewetta Ave. After further investigation, Code Officers determined that the electrical panels were a series of 120/240/480 electrical volts equipment installed by a licensed electrical contractor. The electrical equipment has been inspected and approved by the City Building Dept. Andy Gump Electrical contractor advised, the electrical panels are for temporary power for Castle and Cooke Brighton Ridge Tract. The installation and the use of the panel meet the scope and intent of the California Electrical Code Article 225-18 and Article 305-1. B A K E R S F I E L CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director_ DATE: November 1, 2005 SUBJECT: HAGEMAN FLYOVER QUESTIONS Referral No. 1309 COUNClLMEMBER COUCH SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS TO STAFF FOR RESPONSE REGARDING THE HAGEMAN FLYOVER: 1) WILL THE NEW SAM'S CLUB IN THE NORTHWEST RESULT IN MORE OF A NEED FOR THE HAGEMAN FLYOVER? 2) SHOULD THE HAGEMAN FLYOVER BE EXPEDITED TO OCCUR WITH DEVELOPMENT OF THE CENTER? 3) CAN TRAFFIC IMPACT FEES FROM CENTER BE APPLIED SPECIFICALLY TO THE FLYOVER? 1 .) The new Sam's Club will occupy a currently undeveloped site adjacent to Hageman Road, and so will generate additional traffic for the area from what currently exists. However, the traffic study submitted with the proposed development does not include the Hageman Flyover, so the development is not dependent upon the Flyover being in place. But the Flyover would be a benefit to circulation in the area, and since the Sam's Club will generate additional traffic, it would strengthen the need for the Flyover. 2.) The Flyover is a part of the projects Congressman Thomas obtained funding for in the SAFETEA-LU Federal Transportation Bill. Both the Congressman's and City's desire is to expend these funds and build these projects as quickly as possible, so all creative and innovative techniques that staff (City, CountY, Caltrans, and the Congressman's staff) can think of are or will be utilized to deliver the projects as quickly as possible. 3.) The current ordinance does not allow for regional traffic impact fees paid by a developer for a development project to be earmarked to a specific transportation project, and staff would not recommend this change to the ordinance. The program as currently structured allows for regional projects on the TDF project list to be constructed as development occurs using the pool or fees collected. Staff recommends, and the City Council determines, what TDF projects to build and when to build them. Earmarking specific fees for specific projects would dramatically restrict this flexibility, and could result in delays to the overall delivery of projects on the TDF project list (i.e. funding may be present in the TDF account, but the fees could not be used on a particular project as they were earmarked for another project that may not yet be totally funded or ready to construct). G:\GROUPDAT~Referrals\2005\10-12\Re~1309 Hageman Flyover Questions.doc B A K E R S F I E L D MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: ~g~'Tanley Grady, Planning Director DATE: November 2, 2005 SUBJECT: Re: Dumping of Dirt and Concrete Referral # 1305 ICouncilmember Couch referred to staff to determine if the dumping of dirt and concrete at the following locations is intentional, and if not, should a "No Dumping" sign be placed on the properties. A Code Enforcement Officer investigated the vacant lot at the southwest comer of Buena Vista and Stockdale Hwy. Illegal dumping is occurring at the site. An illegal dumping sign has been posted on the lot. Code Enforcement will locate the owner and have the violation abated. Code Enforcement will continue to randomly check the lot, if someone is caught illegally dumping on the lot, they will receive a citation. The Code Officer inspected the vacant lot of the northeast comer of Coffee Rd. and Stockdale Hwy. on September 27, 2005, and found a violation of illegal dumping of dirt and concrete on the lot. A Seven Day Notice was sent to the owner to abate the violation. After no response, a Second Notice to abate a public nuisance was mailed informing the owner of a hearing to be held on October 25, 2005. The Hearing Officer determined it is a public nuisance and to abate by contract. The property is scheduled to go out for bid on November 4, 2005, allowing the 10 day right to appeal by owner. TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: ~ Stanley Grady, Development Services Director DATE: November 2, 2005 SUBJECT: Re: Dogs and Odor at 11908 Roaring River Ave. Referral # 1306 Councilmember Couch referred to staff for investigation correspondence from Roaring River neighborhood, River Oaks Community, regarding a complaint of loud barking dogs and odor from the un-cleanliness on property at 11908 Roaring River Ave. On November 1, 2005 'a Code Enforcement Officer went to the home of 11908 Roaring River and found two dogs that are kept in kennels. The kennels appeared to be clean; however, a slight odor was detected, the Officer was told the kennelsare cleaned everyday. The backyarcl~was not necessarily clean, however, the items in the backyard were stacked in an orderly fashion. The aggressive dog does most of the barking, he now wears a "barking dog shock collar" most of the time to try and control the barking. Although efforts have been made to minimize the barking and eliminate the odors, the Code Enforcement Officer reminded them of the City Ordinance on this matter and asked for their continued cooperation. B A K E R S F I E L D ~OV .4 2005 MEMORANDUM November 3, 2005 TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: "'~"Mark Lambert, Water Resources Superintendent THROUGH: Florn Core, Water Resources Manager SUBJECT: Water Hyacinth in Local Waterways Council Referral No. 001316 (City Wide) - Referral to Water Resources Department During the City Council meeting of October 26, 2005, Councilmember Couch requested staff to provide a report on City's efforts and procedures in eradicating water hyacinth from Truxtun Lake, canals and other local waterways. The occurrence of water hyacinth has been more visible to the public due to the unusual high flows in the river channel through Bakersfield this year. Portions of the masses of the plant have broken loose upstream and floated down river and settled along the edge of the river. The infestation of this noxious invasive weed has been heavier in upper areas of the river over the last two years, but efforts by the City and cooperating river water districts have brought the problem at these major river weirs under control. Water hyacinth is cold sensitive and typically the plant goes dormant at this time, but this fall season has been unseasonably warm, extending the growth cycle of the plant. The eradication of water hyacinth has been incorporated into City Water Resources Department annual maintenance programs and budget. The Department uses in-house staff and equipment, as well as contractors who have specialized equipment, to remove the weed. The City applied for a permit, in March 2005, from the California Regional Water Quality Control Board, for the eradication of hyacinth in the Kern River channel and we only recently received approval for the permit. It is too late in the year to initiate eradication programs that are allowed under the permit. Those programs will begin as early as possible in 2006. The City has also applied for grants to assist in funding of control of the weed. The highest priority sites for removal of the weed have been the river weirs. The blockage and heavy loads caused by the hyacinth pushing against the weirs could jeopardize the safe operation and integrity if left unmanaged. These weirs are critical in maintaining canal diversions and more importantly, crucial to flood control operations. The highly visible Truxtun Lakes have received attention to the hyacinth growth, with the application of an environmentally friendly elemental chemical application. Though very safe, the material is very slow acting but the results have been positive. As far as suppression of the weed in the river channel upstream of Coffee Road and in the vicinity of Stockdale Highway, the floating mechanical equipment used at the river weirs cannot be used due to the velocity of the water. When the river flows cease, which could be as soon as the middle of December, City equipment and crews will enter the river channel and mechanically haul the hyacinth out. S:~2005 REFERRAL RESPONSE\CouncilRef001316Couch(Hyacinth).doc BAKERSFIELD POLICE MEMORANDUM TO: ALAN TANDY, CITY MANAGER FROM: W.R. RECTOR, CHIEF OF POLICE DATE: NOVEMBER 2, 2005 SUBJECT: TRAFFIC ISSUES NEAR ST. JOHN'S CHURCH COUNCIL REFERRAL NO. 1322 (WARD 5) Council Member Hanson requests the police department address the traffic concerns in the attached correspondence from St. John's Lutheran Church on Buena Vista and Respond back to Council. In response to Council Member Hanson's referral, Lt. Jay Borton spoke with staff in the City Traffic Engineering Department regarding installation of additional signage in the school zone. Officers assigned to the area will also conduct speed enforcement during time periods that children are preSent. Please refer to the attached correspondence to Pastor Dennis Hilkin for additional information. WRR/vrf Attachment .... '-' CITY OF BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIA POLICE DEPARTMENT W,R. RECTOR (661) 326-3800 Chief of Police FAX (661) 852-2158 November 2, 2005 Pastor Dennis R. Hilkin St. John's Lutheran Church 4500 Buena Vista Road Bakersfield, CA 93311 Pastor Hilkin: After reading yOur letter about your concerns over traffic issues near your school, I spoke with personnel from the City's Traffic Engineering Department. The school zone at your location will be supplied with additional signage, including the fluorescent green signs, which have been proven to be more visible. At this point in time installing flashing lights onthe signs would not be an option simply because the area has a high rate of construction in progress and planned, which would cause periodic interruptions of electricity to the signs. This is, however, an option to examine when the area stabilizes. In reference to your request to move the signs further from the school, which too will be examined by Traffic Engineering, by law, it would not change the actual school zone boundaries for speed enforcement. I will have officers in the area, as calls for service allow, to conduct speed enforcement during times when children are present. I cannot guarantee such enforcement on a daily or regular basis due to the sheer number of schools in our jurisdiction as well as calls for service. In response to your question about school, buses: If a roadway is divided by a median or has two or more lanes in each direction, vehicles being driven in the opposite direction of the bus are not required to stop for buses stopped to load or unload passengers (California Vehicle Code section 22454 (b)(1) and (2). Many drivers have a misconception about this law and will stop for buses, regardless of the roadway. Last, you mentioned a problem with southbound drivers being reluctant to make left turns into your facility. One option is to eliminate the left turn storage lane in front of your school, which would require vehicles turning into your parking lot to approach from the south. While this would eliminate the problem, I am not sure that is the best solution. At this point, with the amount of traffic in the area due to 1601 TRUXTUN AVENUE · P .O. BOX 59 · BAKERSFIELD, CA 93302 · www. BakersfieldPD.us construction I would suggest you include information in your newsletter regarding the safe operation of vehicles and driving with due caution. If you are interested, I will have an officer speak at a parent meeting or another type venue to address traffic issues with those in attendance. If you have any other questions or concerns please contact the Traffic Section at 326-3882 or my direct number is 326-3731. W. R. Rector, Chief of Police By: "--Et?3ay C Borton Traffic Commander B A K E R S F I E L D ' ; CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM .... TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director~--,.,~ DATE: October 28, 2005 SUBJECT: REVISIT INCENTIVE FOR RECYCLING CONTAINERS Referral No. 1313 (10126/0s) COUNClLMEMBER SULLIVAN REQUESTED BUDGET & FINANCE AND STAFF REVISIT THE FEASIBILITY OF PROVIDING AN INCENTIVE FOR CITIZENS TO UTILIZE THE BLUE RECYCLE CONTAINER. TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE POSSIBILITY OF REDUCING RATE AND/OR EXCHANGING ONE BROWN FOR BLUE AND REPORT BACK TO COUNCIL. Staff has added this topic as an agenda item to the Budget and Finance Committee meeting to be held on November 7, 2005. C:\DOCUME-1\lskinner~LOCALS~1\Temp\Reffi1313 Revisit Recycling.doc B A K E R S F I E L D MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM~ey Grady, Development Services Director DATE: October 27, 2005 SUBJECT: Re: 4100 Ming Avenue (Petsmart) Referral # 1292 Councilmember Sullivan requested staff to monitor the conditions behind the Petsmart store on Ming Ave. for violations. On October 19, 2005 the Code Enforcement Officer inspected the property behind the Petsmart store at 4100 Ming Avenue and found the following violations; BMC 8.27.010(H), junk, trash and debris. On October 20, 2005, a Seven Day Notice was sent to the property owner to abate the problem. A re-inspection was scheduled for October 27, 2005. The Code Enforcement Officer was in the area on October 26, 2005, and foUnd that the violations were abated. NOV 2 2005 B A K E R S F I E L D ~T!.~ CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM TO: Alan Tandy, City Manager FROM: Raul Rojas, Public Works Director ~ DATE: October 28, 2005 SUBJECT: ABANDONED VEHICLES, TRASH, GRAFFITTI Referral No. 1273 (Meeting- 9/28/05) COUNClLMEMBER SCRIVNER REQUESTED STAFF ADDRESS THE ISSUE OF NUMEROUS PROPERTIES WITH ABANDONED VEHICLES, TRASH AND GRAFFITI ON WALLS (PHOTOGRAPHS WITH CORRESPONDING ADDRESSES CAN BE PICKED UP IN THE CITY CLERK'S WILL-CALL BOX). The Anti-graffiti section was given the pictures. Due to the lack of information and addresses, they Will remove the graffiti when they are able to find the correct locations. G:\GROUPDATLReferralsk2005~09-28~Ref#1273 Abandoned Vehicles, Trash, Graffiti.doc