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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998 03-03 CC AGENDA PKTAGENDA OF A REGULAR MEETING NATIONAL CITY CITY COUNCIL COUNCIL CHAMBERS CIVIC CENTER 1243 NATIONAL CITY BOULEVARD REGULAR MEETING - TUESDAY - MARCH 3, 1998 - 3:00 P.M. OPEN TO THE PUBLIC PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM PRIOR TO THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE MEETING AND SUBMIT IT TO THE CITY CLERK IT IS THE INTENTION OF YOUR CITY COUNCIL TO BE RECEPTIVE TO YOUR CONCERNS IN THIS COMMUNITY. YOUR PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT WILL ASSURE A RESPONSIBLE AND EFFICIENT CITY OF NATIONAL CITY. WE INVITE YOU TO BRING TO THE ATTENTION OF THE CITY MANAGER ANY MATTER THAT YOU DESIRE THE CITY COUNCIL TO CONSIDER. WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRESENCE AND WISH YOU TO KNOW THAT WE APPRECIATE YOUR INVOLVEMENT. ROLL CALL PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG BY CITY MANAGER, TOM G. MCCABE INVOCATION APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 24, 1998. COUNCIL AGENDA 3/3/98 Page 2 MAYOR'S PRESENTATIONS Sweetwater Authority PROCLAMATION Proclaiming the month of March, 1998 to be: "MENTAL RETARDATION AWARENESS MONTH" CONSENT CALENDAR Consent Calendar: Consent Calendar items involve matters which are of a routine or noncontroversial nature. All consent calendar items are adopted by approval of a single motion by the City Council. Prior to such approval, any item may be removed from the consent portion of the agenda and separately considered, upon request of a Councilmember, a staff member, or a member of the public. 1. Resolution No 98-23 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City authorizing the City Manager to execute a letter agreement with the Metropolitan Transit Development Board concerning Americans with Disabilities Act Reserve Allocation Funding. (National City Transit) 2. Resolution No. 98-24 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City authorizing participation of the City of National City in the New Beginnings Collaborative and adopting a Statement of Support for the New Beginnings Collaborative. (Community Development Commission) COUNCIL AGENDA 3/3/98 Page 3 CONSENT CALENDAR (Cont.) 3. Resolution No. 98-25 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City waiving the bidding process and authorizing the Purchasing Agent to execute an Agreement with Federal Signal Corporation for the purchase of lightbars for police patrol vehicles. (Purchasing) 4. Resolution No. 98-26 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City waiving the bidding process and authorizing the Purchasing Agent to execute an Agreement with EPIC Solutions for the purchase of a Digital Booking Camera System. (Purchasing) 5. WARRANT REGISTER #33 (Finance) Ratification of Demands in the amount of $346,564.64. 6. Claim for Damages: Irma Sanchez (City Clerk) 7. Claim for Damages: Armando Zavala (City Clerk) NON CONSENT RESOLUTIONS 8. Resolution No. 98-27 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City approving the issuance of Tax Allocation Bonds by the Community Development Commission of the City of National City in the maximum principal amount of $29,000,000. (Community Development Commission) COUNCIL AGENDA 3/3/98 Page 4 NON CONSENT RESOLUTIONS (Cont.) 9. Resolution No. 98-28 Resolution of the City Council of the City of National City opposing the "English for Children Initiative" (City Attorney) NEW BUSINESS 10. Wireless Communications Facilities on City Property. (City Manager) -> CITY MANAGER -* CITY ATTORNEY -> OTHER STAFF -> MAYOR - CITY COUNCIL 11. Proposed South Bay Wildlife Refuge (Councilman Beauchamp) COUNCIL AGENDA 3/3/98 Page 5 NEW BUSINESS (Cont.) PUBLIC ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (Five -Minute Time Limit) NOTE: Pursuant to State Law, items requiring Council action must be brought back on a subsequent Council agenda unless they are of a demonstrated emergency or urgent nature. CLOSED SESSION CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — PENDING LITIGATION. Government Code Section 54956.9 (a) — Dispute with City of San Diego concerning Metro Sewer Contract. ADJOURNMENT Next Regular City Council Meeting — March 10, 1998 - 6:00 p.m. - Council Chambers, Civic Center. TAPE RECORDINGS OF EACH CITY COUNCIL MEETING ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE AND TO LISTEN TO IN THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE SWEETWATER AUTHORITY 505 GARRETT AVENUE POST OFFICE BOX 2328 CHULA VISTA, CALIFORNIA 91912-2328 (619) 420-1413 FAX (619) 425-7469 February 23, 1998 Mr. Tom McCabe City Manager City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950 Dear Mr. McCabe GOVERNING BOARD J.S. SKI WOLNIEWICZ, CHAIRMAN MARGARET COOK WELSH, VICE CHAIR JAMES "JIM' DOUD SUE JARRETT BUD POCKLINGTON GEORGE H. WATERS CARY F. WRIGHT WANDA AVERY TREASURER DIAN J. REEVES SECRETARY I would appreciate your assistance in putting Sweetwater Authority on the agenda for the March 3, 1998 City Council meeting at 3:00 p.m. The Authority would like to make a presentation to the City of National City in appreciation for use of its Council Chambers during the Sweetwater Authority remodeling project. I would greatly appreciate a call confirming placement on the agenda. I can be reached at 422-8395, ext. 601. Also, don't hesitate to call if there are any further questions. Very truly yours, SWEETWATER AUTHORITY Richard A. Reynolds General Manager RAR:ruis cc: Mayor George Waters 71 A Public Agency, Serving National City, Chula Vista and Surrounding Areas WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS, WHEREAS, 1rnr1ama1inu Mental retardation is a condition which today affects an estimated seventeen hundred National City children and adults and their families; and The most effective weapons for alleviation of the serious problems associated with mental retardation are public knowledge and understanding; and The potential for citizens with mental retardation to function more independently and productively must be fostered; and During the month of March, 140,000 members through 1,100 state and local chapters of the Arc, a national organization on mental retardation, are forging vital employment, educational, and fund -raising campaigns under private sector initiatives; and The Arc of San Diego is celebrating 47 years of service to families and individuals. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE H. WATERS, Mayor of the City of National City, do hereby proclaim March, 1998 as: MENTAL RETARDATION: AWARENESS. MONTH IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of National City be affixed this 3rd day of March, 1998. GEORGE H. WATERS MEETING DATE AGENDA ITEM NO 1 ITEM TITLE RECOMMENDATION ON AMERICANS WITH DISABILI1'1ES ACT (ADA) REVENUE ALLOCATION FUNDING PREPARED BY EXPLANATION City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT March 3, 1998 Alfredo Rios, Jr. DEPARTMENT National City Transit The Americans with Disabilities Act (ACT) Revenue Allocation Funding is calculated based on the total revenue miles operated by each operator. The funding source is the City of National City local TDA Article 4.0 Funds. $42,076 is the amount that the City of National City is using to fund its portion of the 1999 ADA Complementary Paratransit Assessment. The funding generated by this assessment will be used to finance the ADA Complementary Paratransit service in zone 4 (South Bay). Environmental Review X N/A Financial Statement This Action only involves TDA funds and not the City's General Fund. r ) ,7'-') Account No. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends approval. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No 9 8- 2 3 * MTDB Letter of Agreement A-200 (Rev. 9/901 RESOLUTION NO. 98 - 2 3 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A LETTER AGREEMENT WITH THE METROPOLITAN TRANSIT DEVELOPMENT BOARD CONCERNING AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT RESERVE ALLOCATION FUNDING BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of National City that the City Manager is hereby authorized to execute a letter agreement with the Metropolitan Transit Development Board concerning Americans with Disabilities Act Reserve Allocation Funding. Said agreement is on file in the office of the City Clerk. PASSED and ADOPTED this 3rd day of March, 1998. ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: George f;#iLac ser, III City Attorney George H. Waters, Mayor 1255 Imperial Avenue. Su,te 1000 San Diego. CA 92101-7490 (619) 231-1466 FAX (619) 234-3407 January 30, 1998 Mr. Tom McCabe City Manager City of National City 1243 National City Boulevard National City, CA 91950-4397 Dear Mr. McCabe: 1 P•, 12: 26 CITY -.L r MTDB Doc. No. G0407.0-98 SRTP 880.5 (PC 263) Subject: AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) REVENUE ALLOCATION FUNDING This letter will serve as an Agreement with the Metropolitan Transit Development Board (MTDB) regarding the funding source that National City will be using to fund its portion of the FY 1999 ADA Complementary Paratransit assessment as outlined in the attachment. Assessment Amount: $42,076 Funding Source: City of National City Local TDA Article 4.0 funding If you agree with the above, please sign and return the document marked "original" to MTDB, Attention: Inez Gonzalez. If there are any questions about the information outlined, please contact Jennifer Williamson of my staff at 557-4514. The funding generated by this assessment will be used to finance ADA Complementary Paratransit Services in Zone 4 (South Bay). Sincerely, Accepted: Thomas F. Larwin Tom McCabe General Manager City Manager SGreen CL-ADAMCCABE.JWILLI Date: Attachment: ADA Complementary Paratransit Service Projections cc: Ken Karnes, County of San Diego o ... '1'v G[ySan :nano MEETING DATE City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT March 3, 1998 2 AGENDA ITEM NO ITEM TITLE RESOLUTION: AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN THE NATIONAL CITY COLLABORATIVE AND ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR THE NATIONAL CITY COLLABORATIVE. PREPARED BY DEPARTMENT Paul Desrochers, EXPLANATION Executive Director CDC In January of 1995, under the auspices of the National School District, the New Beginnings Collaborative was inaugurated with the support of the City and other public and private agencies. The subject resolution provides continuing support for another three years. The attached report contains more details of the program. Environmental Review Financial Statement Approve Resolution. X N/A Account No STAFF RECOMMENDATION BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) 1. Staff Report 2. Statement of Support 98-24 Resolution No n-200 !Re.-. Pr-COO-PH.120 RESOLUTION NO. 98-24 RESOLUTION OF ME CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY IN THE NEW BEGINNINGS COLLABORATIVE AND ADOPTING A STATEMENT OF SUPPORT FOR THE NEW BEGINNINGS COLLABORATIVE WHEREAS, the City of National City supports the concepts and ideals of the New Beginnings Collaborative; and WHEREAS, the City of National City is committed to promoting family and community well being in National City. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of National City adopts a Statement of Support for the New Beginnings Collaborative to provide services in a coordinated and cooperative effort to the citizens of National City and authorizing the City Manager to take all necessary steps to implement this Statement of Support. Said Statement of Support is on file in the office of the City Clerk. PASSED and ADOYI EI) this 3' day of March, 1998. ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: Zr George H. Eiser, III City Attorney George H. Waters, Mayor National City Collaborative Two years ago, with the assistance of $30,000 in CDBG funds, the National City Collaborative opened the FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER at Kimball School. Now, the program is in the process of locating a site for another Resource Center in the Eastern area of the city. The Collaborative brings numerous activities to the city in support of improving the quality of life for neighborhood residents. The result has been extremely positive. At the Family Resource Center, the County of San Diego provides social and public health services; Children's Hospital, immunizations; Citizenship, English, Child Development and Craft classes are conducted; and a pre-school program is operational. Off -site a Critical Hours program for teens is conducted at Casa De Salud by South Bay Community Services. Recently a survey of city businesses was conducted in conjunction with the Community Development Commission and the Chamber of Commerce in an attempt to learn more about the needs of small businesses, training needs and employment opportunities. The results of the survey will be released soon. The purpose of the Collaborative is to coordinate the efforts of many agencies working within the community to avoid duplication of services with resulting strong programs. Paradise Hospital's Partner's For Prevention, by being, a member provides a Health and Safety component. Operation Samahan, the Boy's & Girls Club are becoming active participants. The City's involvement has been through the coordination of existing programs. For example, the Police Department's Gang Prevention/Diversion and Drug Awareness Programs are coordinated with the Collaborative. Casa De Salud is the site for the Critical Hours program, the Police and Fire Departments have coordinated community service programs; and the Library, literacy programs. The only outright financial participation has been in the form of a one-time grant of CDBG funds of $30,000 for the conversation of several school district buildings for use by the Family Resource Center. The quantifiable results of the first three years include: * Better academic scores at Kimball School * More children immunized to prevent illnesses * Less neighborhood crime * Greater parental participation at Kimball School events An independent evaluation by California State University, San Marcos will soon be available regarding statistics for the above and other indicators of success or areas needed for improvement. STATEMENT OF SUPPORT OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY FOR THE COLLABORATIVE This is a Statement of Support of the City of National City for the Collaborative. While not a legally binding document, this document does indicate support by the City to work together to implement the service delivery plan for National City designated for this year. I. Purpose: The purpose of the Statement of Support is to maintain the effective working relationship established by the National City planning year for the purposes of implementing the proposed program. The goal of this program is: To promote family and community well-being in National City through prevention and early intervention and create systems change through family -focused integrated service delivery. II. Term: The National City planning year shall begin July 1, 1998 and extend through June 30, 2001, and is renewable from year to year unless either party gives notice of intent to withdraw from the collaboration. III. Description of Services: A. General Provisions: The following services may be provided by collaborators in the National City Collaborative: 1. A representative to serve on the Executive Committee and Council of the collaborative. 2. A representative to serve, as needed and subject to the availability of resources, on resource team meetings for purposes of case planning. 3. Assistance in the training of other collaborators concerning available services, referral procedures, etc. Collaborators to be trained include representatives from other organizations, parents from targeted neighborhoods, volunteers, family advocates and community groups. 1 of 3 4. Assistance in the development and implementation of coordinated information services to parents in the targeted communities. 5. Assistance in the development and implementation of common confidentiality guidelines. Said guidelines shall be consistent with all local, state and federal codes and mandates governing confidentiality and rights of privacy. 6. Assistance in recruitment, training, screening and deployment of community volunteers. 7. Review of agency program development, to the extent feasible, as how it fits into the ongoing aims of the collaboration. 8. Participation, as possible, in interagency Focus Group discussions for the purposes of gathering information and assessing program impact. 9. Assistance in the development and implementation of collaborative information management. 10. Support of prevention strategies in the individual agency and through cross -agency activities. 11. Participation in community awareness, mandated reporting and documentation activities of the Collaborative. B. Specific Provisions: In addition to the aforementioned Support, the City of National City offers the following specific services, subject to the availability of resources and other reasonable limitations: 1. Provide Drug Awareness Education by uniformed police officers to at -risk youths through school programs. 2. Provide Campus Security by uniformed police officers to middle schools in National City. 3. Provide Crime Prevention and Youth Delinquency Counseling to parents and citizens of National City. 4. Provide Anti -Gang Assistance through the Police Department to local youths to the extent possible. 5. Provide Gang Diversion programs to youth in the nature of recreational, social and cultural activities, i.e. sports programs for the targeted groups. 2 of 3 6. Provide supervised summer recreation programs at elementary schools to promote inter -relationships and accepted group behavior. 7. Provide social and cultural activities to all ages to promote family concepts such as swimming, dancing, and outings. IV. Termination The City of National City may withdraw from participation in the Collaborative for any reason, by giving thirty (30) days written notice. George Waters, Mayor Tom McCabe, City Manager Date Date 3 of 3 City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March 3, 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO. 3 ITEM TITLE Resolution to award a sole source purchase to Federal Signal Corporation for Lightbars for Police cars. Brenda E. Hodges< DEPARTMENT Purchasing PREPARED BY EXPLANATION. The Police Department has requested a specific lightbar, as justified in their attached memo. Federal Signal Corporation is the manufacturer, and therefore the sole source for the procurement. The Police Department requests that this lightbar become the new standard for all Police black and white patrol vehicles. We currently have eleven (11) black and whites on order for this fiscal year, therefore implementing the change now, will have the greatest impact on the fleet. This would provide new lightbars for all eleven (11) new cars, with the older lightbars being slowly converted on an as needed basis. As allowed by Purchasing Ordinance #1480, Section 12a, the bidding requirements may be dispensed with, when the commodity can be obtained from only one vendor, and when a particular commodity has been standardized by order of the City Council. It is therefore requested that the City Council proclaim the 'Smart Vectra' lightbar as the new 'standard', and authorize the Purchasing Agent to effect the sole source purchase from Federal Signal Corporation in the amount of S17,875.44. Environmental Review N / A Financial Statement Funds are available in Vehicle C.I.P. budget. AcS.unt No. 643-422-224-511 / STAFF RECOMMENDATION In concurrence with the Police Department and the DirectorPublic Works, it is recommended that the resolution be approved. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Police Department Memo dated Feb. 19, 1998 98-25 Resolution No A -?CC ( Re. v/AC'' RESOLUTION NO. 98 - 25 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY WAIVING THE BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASING AGENT TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH FEDERAL SIGNAL CORPORATION FOR THE PURCHASE OF LIGHTBARS FOR POLICE PATROL VEHICLES WHEREAS, the Police Department has recommended that required lightbars for police patrol vehicles be purchased from Federal Signal Corporation without complying with the competitive bidding procedure set forth in the Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, Section 2.60.220 of the Municipal Code authorizes dispensing with the bidding procedure when the City Council determines that it is in the City's best interest to do so; and WHEREAS, research indicates that special circumstances exist to support the need for the lightbars manufactured by Federal Signal Corporation. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of National City that the Council finds and determines that it is in the City's best interest to purchase lightbars for police patrol vehicles from Federal Signal Corporation without complying with the competitive bidding procedure. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of National City that the Purchasing Agent is hereby authorized to execute on behalf of the City a Purchase Order between Federal Signal Corporation and the City of National City to effect this purchase. PASSED and ADOPTED this 3rd day of March, 1998. ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: George H. City Attorney v J ser, Ill George H. Waters, Mayor February 19, 1998 To: From: M.G. Tricker, Lieutenant 1Ll Subject: Smart Vector Lightbar Brenda Hodges, Purchasing Agent ul The "Smart Vector" lightbar, because of its unique configuration allows greater flexibility in its use. The emergency lights are individually encased which allows the officer to customize the sequencing depending on the situation. The "V" shape of the light bar is an enhanced safety feature that can't be overemphasized. The shape allows for more of the emergency lighting to be projected out to the side, which improves the visibility of the police car to vehicles approaching from the side. This becomes especially important when a police car is running Code through an intersection. Most police vehicle accidents that occur within intersections are usually of the broadside type. Increasing the visibility of the police car in those situations should have a positive impact on reducing these types of collisions. Our concerns for the safety of our officers and citizens we serve, as well as addressing the issue of the City's liability as it relates to police involved collisions, were the compelling reasons we have recommended switching to the Smart Vector lightbar system. City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March 3, 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO 4 ITEM TITLE Resolution to waive the bidding process and award a contract to EPIC Solutions for a Digital Booking Camera System Brenda E. Hodges 'DEPARTMENT Purchasing PREPARED BY EXPLANATION. See attached. Environmental Review _ N/A Financial Statement Funds appropriated via Resolution #97-132. Account lo. STAFF RECOMMENDATION - 11-000-508 Recommend that the award be made to Epic Solutions, and that authority be given to the Purchasing Agent to issue resulting purchase order. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No 9 8-26 1. Police Department Memo dated 2/4/98 (pg 1-3) 2. Vendor Proposal dated 2/5/98 (pg 4) 3. Resolution A-200 (Rev. a/A01 ATTACHMENT On October 7, 1997, the City Council authorized the appropriation of 1997/98 Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fundsto the Police Department for the purchase of a Digital Booking Camera, via Resolution #97-132, in the amount of $27,817.00 The Police Department is now ready to purchase the camera, and has requested the "Book'em" system by EPIC Solutions of San Diego. Several other similar systems exist, but it has been determined that they are not compatible with the systems used by other agencies. Compatibility is critical, as it enables agencies to share information. According to the attached memo from the Police Department, special conditions exist to support the use of the `Book'em" system. It appears that this is the only system that will ensure agency compatibility, and enable information sharing, therefore no further purpose would be served by soliciting bids. It is therefore requested that the City Council declare that special circumstances exist, and that it is in the City's best interest to waive the bidding process, as allowed by Purchasing Ordinance #1480, Section 12a(4), and authorize the purchase of the `Book'em" system from EPIC Solutions of San Diego. in the amount of $23,975.00 RESOLUTION NO. 98 - 2 6 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY WAIVING THE BIDDING PROCESS AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASING AGENT TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH EPIC SOLUTIONS FOR THE PURCHASE OF A DIGITAL BOOKING CAMERA SYSTEM WHEREAS, pursuant to Resolution No. 97-132, the City Council of the City of National City did approve funding for the purchase of a Digital Booking Camera System for the Police Department; and WHEREAS, the Police Department has recommended that the system be purchased from EPIC Solutions without complying with the competitive bidding procedure set forth in the Municipal Code; and WHEREAS, Section 2.60.220 of the Municipal Code authorizes dispensing with the bidding procedure when the City Council determines that it is in the City's best interest to do so; and WHEREAS, research indicates that special circumstances exist to support the need for the EPIC Solutions system. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of National City that the Council finds and determines that it is in the City's best interest to purchase a Digital Booking Camera System from EPIC Solutions without complying with the competitive bidding procedure. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of National City that the Purchasing Agent is hereby authorized to execute on behalf of the City a Purchase Order between EPIC Solutions and the City of National City to effect this purchase. PASSED and ADOPTED this 3`d day of March, 1998. ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: /DZ. ar George H. Eiser, III City Attorney George H. Waters, Mayor City of National City Police Department 1200 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950 Phone: (619) 336-4400 February 4, 1998 TO: Brenda Hodges, Purchasing Agent Purchasing Department FROM: Penu Pauu Jr., Lieuten Investigations Division L/ SUBJECT: "Book'em" Digital Booking Camera System by Epic Solutions of San Diego The Police Department is requesting the purchase of the Digital Booking Camera System, "Book'em" by Epic Solutions of San Diego. The research revealed that Epic Solutions is a proven application in the field of digital photography for law enforcement. Their applications are being utilized in all levels of law enforcement, from local to the federal agencies, throughout the United States and five different countries. INFORMATION SHARE "Book'em" is a non-proprietary (non-exclusive/ability to share information) Windows based system which can be placed on the Department's current network. Because it is non-proprietary, other agencies, especially throughout California and more specifically, San Diego County, have sought the applications provided by Epic Solutions to enable them the ability to share information in the future. The California Department of Justice (DOJ) is using Epic Solutions as the database for the "Megan's Law" sex registrant CD-ROM program. The San Diego Police Department installed and has been using "Book'em" since 1992. It has built up a substantial photo database. This photo database will be shared with National City PD following installation. This is not available under another system. Recycled Paper page 2 "Book'em" Digital Booking Camera System The following agencies, located within San Diego County have purchased and installed or are in the process between purchase and installation of the Epic Solutions system. This is a list of agencies that, once installed, the NCPD would be able to share information with. San Diego PD SD Marshal's Office CA Department of Corrections (State Parole) Chula Vista PD Coronado PD SD Harbor PD (Port District) El Cajon PD United States INS Children's Hospital-Polinsky Children's Center California Department of Justice is currently developing a similar type of program called Cal -Photo. This program will provide photos and data on registrants (sex and narcotics) and wanted persons on a statewide level. Because the applications by Epic Solutions meet all the requirements for the evolving Cal -Photo program, DOJ has chosen the San Diego PD and the San Diego County area agencies, who are on-line, to be part of the Cal -Photo pilot program. NCPD would like to be on-line with Epic Solutions to be able to participate in the pilot program. COMPATIBILITY WITH AUTOMATED FIELD REPORTING (AFR) The purchase of the "Book'em" system from Epic Solutions would provide information sharing. This system, once networked with the department's current AFR, will also provide the field officers more resources (photos, information, ability to quickly put together line-ups, etc.) so they can better perform their duties. OTHER SYSTEMS T.F.P. (Technology For Productivity) is a proprietary database system which means the Department would not be able to share information with other agencies. In addition, the system would require its own network server thus more expense. It is believed that it would cost more to make this system compatible with the Cal -Photo program. Z page 3 "Book'em" Digital Booking Camera System X-Image is a Unix based application. It is a different operating system thus it would require its own network server and would increase costs. It does not provide the ability to share information with other agencies. DDSI Systems is a DB/2 database application. Again, it is a different operating system thus would require its own network server equating to greater costs. Again, there is no ability to share information. The Unix and the DB/2 operating systems would require additional training and specific hardware. Epic Solutions, on the other hand is Windows driven system; a system the department already operates. 3• P200mhz MMX Includes: 32Mb RAM ^ 256K Cache 1Mb Video RAM 24x CD/ROM 2 Sutton Mouse 104 Keyboard 1.44 Floppy 56K bps Modem 16 Bit Sound Card T3000 3.2Gb Tape Backup 3.1 Gb Hard Drive 15" .28 dpi Monitor Windows 95 Remote Diagnostic Software 10Base-T Ethernet Card Video Card Video Capture Card -CV-850 ROB Camera Electronic Pan & Tilt Gray Backdrop Lighting Camera Housing FROM EPIC Solutions 6195753525 EPIC Solutions February 4, 1998 Best Final Cost Proposal Networked System BOOK'em Capture License View License EPIC Hardware Capture Station Services Customization Instaltatton Training Melntenanee Delivery Travel OZ-05-98 09:54AM TO National City Police Department Unit Price $ 4,995 2,995 995 3364479 1103 P.2/2 CONFIDENTIAL Iota! 4,995 2,995 995 8,985 Configuration listed below $ 9.995 1 $ 9,995 Sub Total: 9,995 Train the Trainer Year One Capture Station Configuration Manufacturer: Hewllet Packard Seagate Samsung Microsoft STAC Electronics 3Com Matrox Matrox CoStar Vicon Industries Comatex Universal EPIC Solutions 'Subfect to change based upon NIST standards Page 1 FEB-20-1958 15:34 $ 800 600 600 Inc. Inc. Inc. 2 5 1,800 2 1,200 1 600 Sub Total: 3,40Q Total: 3 22,380 Tax. 1,595 Total: $ 23,975 93% P.02 4 City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March 3. 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO 5 ITEM TITLE WARRANT REGISTER #33 PREPARED BY Tess E. Limfueco DEPARTMENT Finance EXPLANATION Ratification of Warrant Register #33 per Government Section Code 37208. Environmental Review N/A Financial Statement N/A Account No STAFF RECOMMENDATION I recommend ratifi ation of these warrants for a total of $356,483.19� )1V BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION J ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No 1. Warrant Register #33 2. Worker's Comp Warrant Register dated 2/24/98 A•200 (Rev ',/83, City of National City Department of Finance 1243 National City Blvd., National City, CA 91950-4397 (619) 336-4267 TO: THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCILMEMBERS FROM: MARIA L. MATIENZO, FINANCE DIRECTOR SUBJECT: RATIFICATION OF WARRANTS AND/OR PAYROLL REGISTER NO. 33 GENERAL FUND TECHNOLOGY FUND GENERAL CAPITAL OUTLA LIBRARY FUND PARKS MAINTENANCE FUN GRANT -CA LITERACY CAM RETIREMENT FUND GAS TAXES FUND LOWER SWEETWATER FUND SEWER SERVICE FUND TINY TOT CLASSES FUND GRANT -JUDGE PROGRAM STATE PUBLIC LIBRARY REGISTER TOTALS PAYROLL TOTAL 95,260.66 120.80 13,910.15 1,559.73 2,101.86 173.30 3,886.65 1,229.16 387.78 91,867.47 47.76 424.77 11.86 GRANT -NC SUPPR. OF DR LIBRARY SCHOOL DISTRI COPS GRANT PART II LIBRARY COMPUTER CENT GRANT-C.D.B.G. CDC PAYMENTS PROPOSITION "A" FUND TDA FACILITIES MAINT FUND LIABILITY INS. FUND GENERAL SERVICES FUND INFORMATION SERVICES MOTOR VEHICLE SVC FUN 352.35 4.69 1,364.53 2122.43 2,168.43 570.26 250.00 38,565.02 33,063.63 11,225.27 974.75 2,638.52 44,1197.81 346,564.64 0.00 346,564.64 I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THE DEMANDS AS LISTED ABOVE AND COVERED BY: WARRANT NUMBERS 147775 THROUGH 147886 INCLUSIVE EXCEPTING NONE/ 103766 THROUGH 103788 INCLUSIVE ARE CORRECT AND JUST TO THE BEST OF MY KNOWLEDGE AND CONFORM TO THE BUDGET FOR THE CURRENT FISCAL YEAR AND THAT MONEY IS AVAILABLE IN THE PROPER FUNDS TO PAY SAID DEMANDS. MAt i L , rf-_T__NO, FINANCE RECTOR ® Recycled Paper City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March 3, 1998 6 AGENDA ITEM NO ITEM TITLE PREPARED BY EXPLANATION. CLAIM FOR DAMAGES: Iiiiia Sanchez Michael R. Dalla DEPARTMENT City Clerk The claim of Iiiva Sanchez arises from an occurrence on December 15, 1997, and was filed with the City Clerk's Office on January 20, 1998. XX Environmental Review N/A Financial Statement N/A Account No. TAFF RECOMMENDATION Deny the claim, and refer to the City Attorney. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TTA ACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No A-700 (Re•. '/Bcl City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March3, 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO. " ITEM TITLE PREPARED BY EXPLANATION. CLAIM FOR DAMAGES: Armando Zavala Michael R. Dalla DEPARTMENT City Clerk The claim of Armando Zavala arises from an occurrence on January 23, 1998, and was filed with the City Clerk's Office on January 29, 1998. Environmental Review Financial Statement N/A XX N/A Account No. IMF RECOMMENDATION Deny the claim, and refer to the City Attorney. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No N/A A -.CO (xe• �!eCl City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT PREPARED BY MEETING DATE March 3, 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO. 8 ITEM TITLE RESOLUTION: APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF TAX ALLOCATION BONDS BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY IN THE MAXIMUM PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF $29,000,000. n AnT�a��T Paul Desrochers, Exiagri YYCCCbit CDC EXPLANATION See attached Community Development Report Suggested Procedure: Consider City Resolution Open Joint Powers Special Meeting Consider Resolution Adjourn to Joint Powers July 7, 1998 Fina ncing Authority Regular Meeting Open CDC meeting Consider Resolution No. 98- Adjourn to regular meeting of CDC that follows this City Council Meeting Reopen City Council Meeting Environmental Review N/A Financial Statement The Bonds are Agency or the to year 2015. not a debt of the City, the Joint Powers Financing CDC; but, are a pledge of the Tax Increment revenue Account No. 7 STAFF RECOMMENDATION Accept and file report. BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS ( Listed Below ) 1. CDC Staff Report 2. Resolution Resolution No. 98-27 A-200 (9180) A-200-PH.J20 RESOLUTION NO. 98 - 27 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY APPROVING 1'Hh, ISSUANCE OF TAX ALLOCATION BONDS BY THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY IN THE MAXIMUM PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF $29,000,000 WHEREAS, the Community Development Commission of the City of National City (the "Commission") has previously issued its Tax Allocation Bonds, Series 1992A in the aggregate principal amount of $21,715,000 (the "Series 1992A Bonds") for the purpose of raising funds to provide financing and refinancing for the National City Downtown Redevelopment Project (the "Redevelopment Project"); and WHEREAS, concurrent with the issuance of the Series 1992A Bonds, the Commission also issued its Tax Allocation Bonds, Series 1992B in the aggregate principal amount of $4,500,000 (the "Series 1992B Bonds") for the purpose of raising funds to provide financing various low and moderate income housing projects in the City; and WHEREAS, the Commission has determined that it is in the best interests of the Commission at this time to advance refund the Series 1992A bonds and the Series 1992B Bonds (collectively, the "1992 Bonds"), and for the purpose of raising funds for such purpose and for the purpose of financing additional projects and activities of the Commission relating to the Redevelopment Project, the Commission has determined to authorize the issuance of its Downtown Redevelopment Project 1998 Tax Allocation Bonds in the aggregate principal amount of not to exceed $29,000,000 (the "Bonds"); and WHEREAS, in accordance with the requirements of Section 33640 of the Health and Safety Code of the State of California, the City Council must approve the issuance and sale of the Bonds by the Commission. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of National City that the issuance and sale of the Bonds by the Commission is hereby approved. Signature Page to Follow Resolution No. 9 8 - 2 7 March 3, 1998 Page Two PASSED and ADOYii:U this 3' day of March, 1998. George H. Waters, Mayor ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: gdm: Air George H. Eiser, III City Attorney Community Development Commission of the City of National City AGENDA STATEMENT March 3, 1998 3 MDa eeting te: _ Agenda Item No. TO: Chairman and Board Members FROM: SUBJECT: Paul Desrochers, Executive Directcr RESOLUTION NO. 98-10: AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE ISSUANCE AND SALE OF NOT TO EXCEED $29,000,000 PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF 1998 TAX ALLOCATION BONDS FOR THE NATIONAL CITY DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AND APPROVING RELATED DOCUMENTS AND ACTIONS. Recommendation: Approve resolution that authorizes: (1) proceeding with the refunding of the 1992 Series A & B Tax Allocation Bonds; (2) professional services relative to the refunding. Fiscal Impact: The bonds will be extended for three years, debt service payments will be less than at present; approximately $3.6 million of new funds will be raised. The net result is $3 million in additional debt at an (IRS) interest rate of 4.74%, the present rate is 6%. Background: Interest rates are the lowest in many years and Municipal Bonds are selling at rates under 5%. This being the case it is appropriate that the Commission take advantage of the market by refunding the 1992 series A & B Tax Allocation Bonds. By action at the February 3rd CDC meeting Miller & Schroeder Financial was authorized to undertake the refunding effort. Since that time details of the undertaking have been reviewed and are presented for consideration. The Commission's Legal Counsel is Jones Hall who have been involved in previous issues for the City and CDC. In 1992 the Joint Powers Authority (City/CDC) was the issuer of the Bonds, hence this entity will be the facilitator. State Law requires that the City Council authorize the sale and finally the CDC must become involved. It is for this reason that three resolutions are presented for consideration. The sale of tax allocation bonds is attractive to many investors even at the low rates of today because they are exempt from federal and state income taxes. The IRS has ruled however, that proceeds from an issue may not be used to acquire property that will be sold to a profit entity. Tax increment funds do not have such a Community Development Commission Agenda Item No. 3 March 3, 1998 Page 1 of 2 restriction. Therefore, Miller & Shroeder was asked to provide a way in which the CDC would have the most flexibility in spending. The result is proposed in the financial impact section above. The other options were to obtain up to $3.3 million up front in restricted funds, or an equal amount in restricted and unrestricted funds. The method chosen is the least expensive and provides the most flexibility. Under this scenario interest only payments will be made on the bonds for two years therefor freeing up over $2.3 million of tax increment revenue over that period. In addition, $1.3 million will be raised up -front as restricted funds. Proceeds from the refunding can be used for public improvements, while the interest only savings and other tax increment can be used for the acquisition of property. The CDC expressed interest in conducting a workshop to discuss the specific use of the proceeds. The present funds on hand have been designated for the CDC's share of the I-5/24th St & Harrison Ave project which includes land acquisition and street improvements. According to our agreement with the County of San Diego in the year 2016 all of the county's share of tax increment must be returned to them. This is in addition to the pass through of close to $800,000 that is returned to them annually. Since we cannot finance beyond that date, a three year extension from 2012 to 2015 is proposed. If in future years the CDC desires to issue more bonds then a new date will have to be negotiated with the County. The pass through commitment with the National School District and Sweetwater District have been fulfilled. Besides the County the Southwestern College District and the County Office of Education receive an estimated $100,000 each annually of tax increment. Action requested involves approval of the refunding procedure by the City Council and Joint Powers Authority. The CDC action includes approval of the Indenture, Escrow and Trust Agreement, Sale of Bonds to the Authority, approval of the Official Statement and engagement of Jones Hall (legal), and Katz Hollis (fiscal) consultants. Passage of the resolutions will enable Miller & Schroeder to market the bonds within the next few weeks. Closing is tentatively set for March 23rd/24th Street. As stated in the original authorization, if the bond market suddenly takes a turn upward and the transaction as basically outlined herein cannot occur, then the CDC/Joint Powers is not obligated to proceed with the sale. The City/CDC attorney has been involved in the review of the documents, Mr. Charles Adams, of Jones Hall and Ms. Rhonda Connolly of Miller Schroeder will be present at the meeting. The City's Finance Director has also been consulted regarding the proposed transaction. * Documents are available for review, on file, in the CDC office and the office of the City Attorney. Community Development Commission Agenda Item No. 3 March 3, 1998 Page 2 of 2 City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT 9 MEETING DATE March 3-, 1998 AGENDA ITEM NO. ITEM TITLE RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY OPPOSING THE\ "ENGLISH FOR CHILDREN INITIATIVE" PREPARED BY EXPLANATION. George H. Eiser, III DEPARTMENT City Attorney At the February 24 City Council meeting, a majority of the Council voted to oppose the "English for the Children Initiative". The proposed resolution would memorialize the action of the City Council. Environmental Review . X N/A Financial Statement N/A Account No STAFF RECOMMENDATION Consider adoption of the resolution. BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Proposed resolution. Resolution No 98-28 A-200 ;De. __ RESOLUTION NO. 98 - 2 8 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NATIONAL CITY OPPOSING THE "ENGLISH FOR CHILDREN INITIATIVE" WHEREAS, bilingual education has existed in the United States in many forms, with many approaches, in many languages for many years; WHEREAS, bilingual education provides English literacy and content area development in native language which transfers to English language skills; WHEREAS, bilingual education programs maintain positive self-esteem and an understanding of other cultures by young people; WHEREAS, bilingual education programs have substantial evidence that school use of the native language not only has positive academic benefits, but also lowers drop -out rates and related juvenile delinquency conditions, and those children that benefit from academic instruction in their native language are significantly more likely to enroll in college. WHEREAS, bilingual education programs meet the demands of a multi -cultural, multi-lingual global economy; WHEREAS, the City on National City is a municipality with a rich diversity of cultures and languages benefiting from bilingual education; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in order to maintain the civic and cultural values provided by bilingual education, the City Council of the City of National City opposes the proposed Unz/Tuchman initiative, known as the 1998 California "English for Children Initiative", and urges its citizens to examine this initiative and consider the negative impact of its passage on the residents of National City. PASSED and ADOPTED this 3ro day of March, 1998. ATTEST: Michael R. Dalla, City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: George H. riser, III City Attorney George H. Waters, Mayor City of National City, California COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE March 3, 1998 10 AGENDA ITEM NO. ITEM TITLE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES ON CITY PROPERTY PREPARED BY EXPLANATION Last year, GTE expressed interest in placing a wireless communications facility in a portion of El Toyon Park. Plans or other detailed information have not yet been provided. Staff believes it is important to develop a common procedure to handle any future requests. Staff has surveyed the custom and practice of other cities to determine how they handle requests from wireless vendors who wish to locate on City -owned property. We have also consulted with our outside legal counsel on how best to deal with FCC regulations in this area. A standard lease agreement to cover these facilities has been drafted. Our review process is now complete and we have designed a recommended model to follow. In this proposed model, a project would be required to go through the typical Conditional Use Permit process. If the CUP were approved, the Engineering Department would then negotiate an agreement with the wireless applicant, and establish a rental rate and lease terms. The proposed agreement would require City Council approval. Attached is a flow chart describing the review process. Park Morse Two questions are before the City Council this afternoon: DEPARTMENT City Manager's Office (1) Is the process outlined on the attached flow chart acceptable? (2) Do you wish to apply this process to the GTE request? If so, we would instruct GTE to file a CUP Application. Engineering and Planning staff are available to respond to any questions. Environmental Review Financial Statement N/A XN/A Account No. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Council Direction BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION N/A ATTACHMENTS (Listed Below) Resolution No. Application Process A200 (Rev. 9/80, Application Process - Wireless Operators On City Property - Proposed C.U.P. Submission by Wireless Applicant Planning Department Begins Review Application Copied to Appropriate Departments Application Sent to Planning Commission / Decision to City Council Project Approved / Project Referred to Engineering / Engineering Begins Negotiations on "Business Deal" / Standard Agreement, Rental Rate f3 Lease Terms Established / Proposed Agreement Sent to City Council Construction Can Begin Project Dies / New: 2-24-98 file: Wireless.vsd City of National City Office of the City Council 1243 National City Boulevard, National City, CA 91950 MITCH BEAUCHAMP•COUNCILMAN (619) 336-4232 (619) 477-5333 To: City Manager From: RMB Re: Official City • uncil position on proposed South Bay Wildlife Refuge ITEM #11 3/3/98 Please docket on the agenda a discussion and possibly adoption of a position by the Council on the proposed wildlife refuge. ®Recycled Paper UPDATE#6 SA.IN DI EGO NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Planning Update FEBRUARY 1998 WHATS NEW The draft environmental assessment and land protection plan are complete for the proposed South San Diego Bay Unit of San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. Boundaries and alternatives have remained unchanged: since we issued the last planning update in November 1997. Both of the draft documents have been sent to anyone who requested them, and the comment period is now open. The documents are also posted on our website at www.rl.fx's.gov/planning/ pinho ne.html. Please let us know if you would like to receive a copy of the final documents, or you will receive only planning updates. PUBLIC WORKSHOPS The workshops will give you an opportunity to ask questions and submit comments in an informal setting. Each workshop will begin with a short presentation regarding the refuge proposal and the planning process. Staff from local Service offices and the Regional Office in Portland, Oregon will be available to discuss the proposal. Chula Vista: 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m., February 25, Chula Vista Nature Center, 1000 Gunpowder Pt. Dr., Chula Vista. (Buses will run between the parking lot and the Nature Center every 10 minutes during the meeting.) Imperial Beach: I p.m.-3 p.m., February 26, Marina Vista Center, 1075 8th St., Imperial Beach. Coronado: 6:30 p.m-S:30 p.m.. Fe'or_ary 26 Village Hall. Inside Elementary School. 600 6th St., Coronado. t Enter at the door on H .Ave.. between 6th and 7th Streets.) SUBMITTING COMMENTS If you have questions or concerns, please bring them to the workshops, call one of the numbers on the "Who to Contact" list, or send us a letter or e-mail message. The comment period is open through March 11, so make sure we receive your comments by that date. Please provide written comments to Charles J. Houghten, Chief Planning and Mapping Branch (ARTV- RE), 911 N.E. 11 th Ave., Portland, OR 97232-4181. Please send e-mail comments (with "South Bay" typed in the subject line) to rlplanning_guests.gov or complete the comment form available from our website at .,trww.rl.. ivs.gov/planning/pinhome.html. THE PROPOSAL The proposed refuge would protect habitat for hundreds of thousands of waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds, and eight animals and plants that are federally listed as endangered or threatened. The wildlife habitat within the proposed boundary is the internationally important to migratory birds. The Service is interested in protecting habitats in South Bay. the salt works, the Naval Radio Receiving Facility, and remnant salt marshes and rnudflats. A total of eight corporations. agencies. and governments own all the land inside the proposed boundary. If a boundary is approved. the Service would have authority to negotiate agreements with w:fling landowners to help wildlife. The Service may be able to accept land transfers in some circumstances, if owners are willing. THE ALTERNATIVES • SCHEDULE THE ALTERNATIVES The enclosed environmental assessment describes and analyzes three alternative boundaries and a no action alternative. Under Alternatives A and B, the Service would extend National Wildlife Refuge System protection to all salt marshes and mudtlats, the salt ponds. and the open water in South Bay from the Sweetwater Channel and Crown Cove south. Under Alternative C, the Service would protect the salt ponds and adjoining salt marsh and mudflats. and the open water in South Bay south of Emory Cove and the Chula Vista Marine Center. Under Alternative A, the Service would protect about 5,000 acres, including over 800 acres of degraded habitats that could be restored to enhance wildlife values. Under Alternative B, the preferred alternative, the Service would protect about 4,750 acres, including almost 600 acres of degraded habitats that could be restored to enhance wildlife values. Under Alternative C, the alternative the Service approved in 1979, the Service would protect about 2,000 acres. About 169 acres of Alternative C are degraded habitats that could be restored to enhance wildlife values. Under Alternative D, the no action alternative, the Service would not establish a new refuge in South Bay. PLANNING SCHEDULE FOR THE PROPOSED SOUTH SAN DIEGO BAY UNIT Public open houses: Chula Vista Feb. 25, 1998 Imperial Beach Feb. 26, 1998 Coronado Feb. 26, 1998 Formal comment period ends Mar. 11, 1998 Final pnvironrr.en:a! .Assessment' Land Protection Plan June 1998 Public notice of decision June 1998 • WHO TO CONTACT WHO TO CONTACT Information on the Proposed South San Diego Bay Unit Dean Rundle, Refuge Manager Andrew Yuen, Deputy Refuge Manager San Diego NWR Complex U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2736 Loker Avenue West, Suite A Carlsbad, CA 92008 (760) 930-0168 FAX (760) 930-0256 Rebecca Young, Refuge Manager Tijuana Slough NWR, Sweetwater Marsh NWR U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 301 Caspian Way Imperial Beach, CA 91932 (619) 575-2704 FAX (619) 575-6913 Information on Refuge Planning and Compliance Abbey Kucera, Fish and Wildlife Biologist U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 911 N E . 11 m Ave., 3rd Floor West Portland, OR 97232-4181 (503) 231-6839 or (800) 662-8933 FAX (503) 231-6161 Information on San Diego County Endangered Species' Issues or MSCP Sherry Barrett, Wildlife Biologist Nancy Gilbert, Wildlife Biologist U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2730 Loker Avenue West Carlsbad. CA 92008 (760) 431-9440 FAX (760) 431-9618 Information on Land Acquisitions Jane Scott, Realty Specialist U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2736 Loker Avenue West Carlsbad. CA 92008 (-601 930-0209 FAX (760) 030-0256 DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PROPOSED SOUTH SAN DIEGO BAY UNIT San Diego National Wildlife Refuge San Diego County, California Chapter 1. PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR ACTION 1.1 Introduction San Diego National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) helps conserve the rich and varied natural heritage of the San Diego region. The diverse habitats contained within the Refuge boundaries are protected and managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service) as wildlife habitat for the continuing benefit of the American people (see map 1). The Service proposes to protect the last remaining wildlife habitat in and around the southern end of San Diego Bay as part of the Refuge. The proposed South San Diego Bay Unit of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge is located within the political jurisdictions of the cities of Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, Coronado, National City, and San Diego. This draft environmental assessment (EA) evaluates the alternatives for and the effects of establishing an approved Refuge boundary, then acquiring and managing lands within this boundary as wildlife habitat. This assessment will be used by the Service to encourage public input in the acquisition planning process, and to determine whether the proposed establishment of the South San Diego Bay Unit would have a significant effect on the quality of the human environment. The environmental assessment is part of the Service's decision -making process in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act. 1.2 Proposed Action The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service proposes to establish an approved boundary for the South San Diego Bay Unit of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. Once the boundary is approved, the Service would negotiate with willing participants to acquire land within this boundary. Lands acquired or managed under special agreement would, as permitted and negotiated, be added to the National Wildlife Refuge System and managed accordingly (see section 2.3.2). Lands not added to the National Wildlife Refuge System would continue to be managed by their owners. South San Dieao Bay Unit Draft Environmental Assessment San Diego NWR Chapter 1 1.3 Need for the Proposed Action Since the 1850s, the upper two-thirds of San Diego Bay has been converted from a fertile, shallow, flat-bottomed bay surrounded by extensive mudflats and salt marshes to a series of dredged navigational channels edged by wharves, shipping berths, docks, and urban development (Port 1990). In the past 70 years, urban development and navigational projects have greatly altered or eliminated the natural habitats of San Diego Bay. Ninety to one hundred percent of the shallow submerged lands, intertidal/mudflats, and salt marshes have been eliminated in the north and central Bay areas. About 65 percent of the South Bay's original shallow submerged lands and 39 percent of its original intertidal/mudflats remain; only small remnants of salt marsh still exist (Port 1990). A major calving area for gray whales until the advent of whaling, the Bay once teemed with edible fish and shellfish. Hundreds of thousands of brant, surf scoter, and other waterfowl wintered on the Bay (Port 1990). Similar numbers of migrating shorebirds and nesting seabirds arrived each year to nest, rest, and feed in the Bay's shallow water, eelgrass, mudflats, and salt marshes. Development drastically changed the health and productivity of the Bay. Decades of industrial pollution and raw -sewage dumping destroyed the water quality and the fragile, shallow- water/bay-floor ecosystem. Shellfish and edible fish populations were greatly reduced. The numbers of some wintering waterfowl dwindled by up to 90 percent (Port 1990). Nesting seabirds and migrating shorebirds still arriving found suitable nesting sites restricted to the salt ponds and other remnant patches on the south end of the Bay. Hundreds of thousands of migrating shorebirds, nesting seabirds, and wintering waterfowl depend on the South Bay, a vital link in the Pacific Flyway. Massive numbers of birds fly back and forth between the Bay and the agricultural fields, riparian woodlands, and salt marsh of the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve, which lies a short distance to the south. Nearly all of San Diego's shallow water, eelgrass, mudflats and salt marshes —crucial habitat for many species of birds and invertebrates —have been eliminated except in the South Bay area. These South Bay habitats now receive some indirect protection because of their status as wetlands or navigable waters. Many types of activities and development cannot occur without regulatory review and restrictions. However, wildlife needs are not proactively protected from disturbance unless a federally listed threatened or endangered species is present. These needs include food sources, hiding places, nesting and rearing sites, and safe resting places. All habitats left in the South Bay have been damaged as a result of ongoing development; recreational and commercial activities: air, water and noise pollution; disturbance from predators and other intruders: and invasion by nonnative species. Habitats are threatened with further degradation. These remaining ecosystems must be proactively protected as wildlife habitat if San Diego Bay is to maintain its native wildlife into :he 21st Century- and beyond. Existing habitats need to be South San Dieco Bay Unit Draft Environmental Assessment San Diego NVVR Chapter 1 proactively managed, protected, and enhanced to continue to meet the needs of the species that depend on them. Undeveloped areas too damaged to provide good habitat need to be restored to provide homes for the species displaced by development elsewhere in the Bay. Not all of the original habitat functions of the Bay can be restored. For example, it is unlikely that gray whales would return to the Bay to give birth. However, the remaining shallow waters, mudflats, and salt marshes could become more hospitable for remaining wildlife. Native species with little remaining habitat, such as light-footed clapper rail, would have the opportunity to increase in numbers if areas that once sustained them are recreated. The Service has an opportunity to counterbalance the heavy development and use of most of the Bay by protecting and reviving the small portion of the Bay where native habitats remain. San Diego, renowned for its beautiful bay setting, attracts over 35 million visitors annually. Hundreds of thousands of people come to San Diego County specifically to view wildlife, particularly birds. The largest and densest concentration of birds in the study area is found in the artificially diked ponds that are owned by the Western Salt Company and used to produce salt (see map 2). It is difficult for Western Salt to accommodate visitors wanting to view this massive bird gathering, and viewing locations with adequate nearby parking are limited. The Service would have an opportunity to work with Western Salt and local community groups, as willing, to establish one or more viewing sites where public access would not damage the area's nesting, resting, and feeding habitat for birds and other wildlife. 1.4 Purpose of the Proposed Action The proposed action has three purposes: 1) To provide the Service with authority to acquire or otherwise protect wildlife habitat under the National Wildlife Refuge System. Protection would follow acquisition (from willing participants) or negotiated agreements (see land protection plan, chapter IV). 2) To provide the Service with the opportunity to manage, enhance, restore, and protect Refuge areas for the benefit of federally listed and other trust species. Specific management activities involving more than minor change will not be addressed by this document (see section 2.3.2). 3) To provide opportunity for the Service to develop compatible wildlife -dependent recreational activities in partnership with local communities (see sections 1.11.1 and 2.3.2). 1.5 Background Service planning for this Refuge Unit began in 1 Service completed an environmental assessment South San Ciego Bay Unit San Diego NWR 973, but has been intermittent since then. The for protection of south San Diego Bay, with a Draft Environmental Assessment Chapter 1 it(rilik- • jel < t t •-• tii cc >- Z' m co c, 0 '.0 N co CO I- .9 2 — ... 7 rn -I FA litaX 0 2 1 1 i1 . 0 Pt Coronsdo signed Finding of No Significant Impact, in 1979 (FWS 1979a). The Service implemented a portion of this decision as Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, which protects high marsh areas. However, the Service did not implement the lower Bay portions addressing the salt ponds and vicinity (see appendix A). The Service will not implement the 1979 decision without reevaluating the project and updating information. The Service began revisiting the establishment of a Refuge in the South Bay beginning in 1990. In response to input provided at many public meetings, the Service proposed three Refuge boundary alternatives. The Service widely circulated these boundary alternatives in one of the three San Diego Bay Refuge Planning Updates mailed to interested parties over the last two years (see appendix B). While these boundaries were not finalized, they were based on the best information available at the time and were presented to the public during scoping meetings. These boundaries represent the areas of concern to both the Service and the public and appear in the Planning Updates for general discussion and information. In 1995, the Service published two reports on bird use of the South Bay (FWS 1995a, 1995b). As staff analyzed the reports in preparation of this document, it became clear that Alternative 2 (see appendix B), as presented in the updates, would not protect any more important open water habitat than Alternative 3. The information from these reports indicated that the open waters of the South Bay were important habitat for feeding and resting waterfowl and seabirds (see section 3.2.1). The open waters include submerged land, eelgrass, and inundated mudflat habitats. As the Service reevaluated conservation needs, the full study area became Alternative A. Then the Service removed potential restoration areas that had more conflict with other land uses to form a preferred alternative, Alternative B. The Service used the proposed Refuge Unit boundary from the 1979 decision to form Alternative C. Alternative C is included in this EA to contrast the levels of protection provided for the South Bay by the 1979 decision and the 1997 proposal. 1.6 Project Area The project area for the proposed South San Diego Bay Unit lies at the southern end of San Diego County, approximately 5 miles north of the border between the United States and Mexico (see map 1). San Diego Bay is a crescent -shaped estuary located about 5 miles north of the Mexico/U.S. border along the California coastline. The Bay is about 14 miles long and nearly 3 miles across at its widest point. Its watershed covers 415 square miles. The 5-000-acre project area stretches westward from the 24th Street Channel to just north of Crown Cove, southward around the salt ponds, and then northward along the Bay's edge. It extends through the jurisdictions of several local governments, including the cities of Imperial Beach, Chula Vista. Coronado, National City, and San Diego. South San Diego Bay Unit Draft Environmental Assessment San Die o NWR Chapter 1 1.7 Decisions To Be Made Based on the analysis documented in this environmental assessment, the following decisions will be made by the Regional Director, Region 1, Portland, Oregon: 1. Determine whether or not the Service should establish a South San Diego Bay Unit of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. If so, 2. Select an approved Refuge boundary that, based on the assessment, best fulfills the purposes for establishing the Unit. 3. Determine whether the selected alternative would have a significant impact upon the quality of the human environment. 1.8 Issue Identification 1.8.1 Issue Identification Process In the development of this draft environmental assessment, the Service has complied with the purpose and intent of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended. Before the Service developed the draft, scoping activities were undertaken with a variety of Federal, State, County, and local governments, as well as private groups and individuals (see also chapter 5). Early in the planning process for the South San Diego Bay proposal, the Service conducted nine public meetings and organized a citizens' working group and policy working group to solicit comments and help define the boundaries of the alternatives. The Service also used ongoing biological research begun in 1992 to identify issues and help define the boundaries of the alternatives. Public notices, public meetings, personal contacts, telephone interviews, and correspondence were used to gather input on the proposed project. 1.8.2 Issues to be Addressed in Detail These issues are discussed in detail in chapters 3 and 4. Biological Issues Coastal Ecosystems have degraded to the point that many plant and animal species have been harmed. Eighty percent of California's coastal wetlands have been converted to urban or agricultural use, and many native plant and animal species have disappeared from South San Diego Bay. Remaining wetlands and wildlife habitats need restoration and protection from incremental degradation or outright destruction. While South San Diego Bay is internationally important to South San Diego Bay Unit San Diego NWR Draft Environmental Assessment Chapter 1 nesting seabirds, migrating shorebirds, and wintering waterfowl, intensive recreation and urban activities are disturbing the last remaining habitat. Several threatened and endangered species are confined to a small percentage of their original ranges due to land and marine development practices. Loss of native habitat has led to the decline of several native species that are now federally listed as threatened or endangered. The South Bay is part of the remaining native habitat that must be protected to help recover the populations of these species. The study area contains nesting, resting, and feeding habitat for six listed bird species, and feeding habitat for one listed sea turtle. One listed plant, salt marsh bird's beak, is also found here. The County of San Diego is home to more federally listed species than any other county in the continental U.S. Economic and Social Issues Existing salt works could be affected by the proposal. Western Salt Company contributes to the local economy. There is a concern that the salt works could be affected by the Refuge proposal. The quality of life and familiar activities could be affected by the proposal. Many respondents are concerned about how the Refuge might affect the character of adjacent communities. Of specific concern are effects on existing recreational activities, including ecotourism, the YMCA Camp Surf, the Bayside Bikeway, and the railroad. Wildlife protection measures could restrict winter boating activities in some portions of the proposed Refuge. Wintering waterfowl need resting and feeding areas that are undisturbed by boat traffic from November through March. The Service would determine where seasonal restrictions on boating would be necessary (see section 3.2.1). These restrictions would, in time, lead to a decrease in areas open to recreational boaters using South Bay waters at certain times of year. The public, especially residents of Imperial Beach, lacks access to the south end of the Bay to fish, to use nonmotorized boats, and to experience the ecosystem. During public meetings and in subsequent correspondence, residents said they wanted a public access point in the south end of the Bay. This document discusses the concept of an access point or points; however, any actual proposals would be developed in a separate planning effort (see section 1.9.2). Any access point(s) and wildlife -dependent recreational activities would need to be compatible with the purposes for which the Refuge was established (see section 1.11.1). South San Diego Bay Unit Draft Environmental Assessment San Diego NWR Chapter 1 MAP 3. BOUNDARY ALTERNATIVES, PROPOSED SOUTH SAN DIEGO BAY UNIT Alternative A Alternative C Alternative B - Preferred Alternative 1 Silver Strand State Beach 2 Area Two 3 MKEG / Fenton Parcel 4 Pond 20 0 1 2 3 Miles