HomeMy WebLinkAbout13 HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMITTEEAgenda Item 13
AGENDA REPORT Reviewed
City Manager
Finance Director eA
MEETING DATE: JULY 17, 2018
TO: JEFFREY C. PARKER, CITY MANAGER
FROM: ELIZABETH A. BINSACK, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMITTEE
SUMMARY:
On June 20, 1988, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1001 establishing the City's
Cultural Resources Overlay District and the City's Cultural Resources Advisory
Committee. On July 31, 1991, the City of Tustin became a Certified Local Government
(CLG) pursuant to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1996, as amended in 1980.
On May 1, 2007, the City Council, in an effort to minimize impact on City resources
related to City boards, commissions and committees, adopted Ordinance 1332
assigning Cultural and Historic Resources responsibilities to the Planning Commission.
At their April 3, 2018 meeting, the City Council received public comment by Ms. Linda
Jennings requesting that the Historic Resource Committee be reinstated (Attachment A
— City Council Minutes). Council Member Gomez requested that the matter be set for a
Council agenda with background information.
CORRELATION TO THE STRATEGIC PLAN:
Cultural and historic resources correlate to Goal C of the City of Tustin's Strategic Plan
pertaining to financial strength and to Goal A to enhance the vibrancy and quality of life
in all neighborhoods and areas of the community.
RECOMMENDATION:
Pleasure of the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The proposed actions would have a minor impact on City resources, which would result in
fiscal impacts to the General Fund. The magnitude of these impacts depends on the
actions taken and is undetermined at this time. Should the City Council reinstate the
Historic Resources Committee, anticipated costs include payment of stipends to five (5)
committee members a minimum of four (4) times per year and staff time dedicated to
preparing for and staffing committee meetings and training.
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 2
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION:
Background
In 1988, in response to public concerns regarding development proposals in the Old
Town area, the City Council imposed a moratorium of zone changes, land use changes
and subdivision approval in Old Town Tustin. The City Council charged the Planning
Commission with studying appropriate architectural guidelines and zoning requirements
to maintain and enhance the existing character of the area. The outcome of the study
was a recommendation by the Planning Commission to adopt a Cultural Resources
Overlay District to provide a framework for recognizing, preserving and protecting
culturally significant structures, natural features, sites and neighborhoods in Tustin, but
primarily in the Old Town area. The City Council thereafter, on June 20, 1988,
established the Cultural Resources Overlay District, the Cultural Resources Advisory
Committee (CRAC), and was recognized as a Certified Local Government by the State
Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) in 1991. In 2005, the City Council changed the
name of CRAC to Historic Resource Committee (HRC).
Upon formation, the HRC was charged with drafting rules and bylaws for City Council
approval, acting in an advisory capacity to the City Council in matters relating to
establishment of the Cultural Resources District (CRD), designation of Cultural
Resources, and acting as a liaison between residents and property owners within the
CRD and the City Council.
The HRC met on a quarterly basis and focused its efforts on the following activities:
• Studied and recommended expansion of the Overlay District
• Established the Historic Register and Plaque program
• Reviewed nominations to the Tustin Historic Register plaque program
• Presented commendation letter to owners of outstanding properties
• Reviewed the 2001 Tustin Historical Survey Update
• Discussed significant development projects in the Overlay District
• Discussed the impacts of freeway and aircraft noise on the District
On April 17, 2007, the City Council adopted Ordinance 1332 (Code Amendment 07-
001), Attachment B, consolidating the responsibilities of the HRC and Planning
Commission which allowed the Council more flexibility in filling vacant positions and
eliminated quarterly meetings of the HRC. SHPO indicated in a comment letter on April
2, 2007, prior to the Council's decision, that it believed "the proposal to eliminate a
stand-alone dedicated historic preservation by assigning preservation to the Planning
Commission" was short sighted (Attachment C). Following the City's notification to
SHPO regarding the consolidation, SHPO agreed to an alternative model similar to the
cities of Sacramento and Ontario, which at the time, both had Planning Commissions
that act as their historic review commissions because they can review applications on
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 3
historic properties as well as make decisions on the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA), which the HRC could not do.
Since the consolidation of the HRC and Planning Commission, staff has regularly
provided training to the Planning Commission related to Tustin's historic preservation
programs and invited Commissioners to attend professional workshops and webinars
related to historic preservation which the Commissioners have attended as their
schedules permit. The training includes an overview of the history of Tustin, the history
of Tustin's historic preservation program, the Cultural Resources Overlay District,
historic surveys, Certificates of Appropriateness, Residential and Commercial Design
Guidelines and architectural styles in the City of Tustin, the Historic Register Plaque
Program, the Commendation program for recognition of outstanding properties, and the
Mills Act program. An excerpt from the Certified Local Government 2016-17 Annual
Report showing Planning Commissioner training events during that period is attached
as Attachment "U'.
In addition, the Planning Commission held public meetings and made recommendations
to City Council on the adoption of the Residential and Commercial Design Guidelines.
Certified Local Government
The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) authorizes the National Park Service (NPS) to
establish a mechanism for each state to certify of local governments to carry out the
purposes of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (the Act), as amended (36
CFR 61.6). The 1980 amendment provided for the establishment of the Certified Local
Government Program to encourage direct participation of local governments in the
identification, evaluation, registration and preservation of historic properties within their
jurisdictions and promote the integration of local preservation interests and concerns
into local planning and decision making processes.
The SHPO administrates the CLG program in conformity with the Act which contains
minimum requirements for participating cities:
Establish and maintain an adequate and qualified historic preservation review
commission made up of five (5) members who have demonstrated interest,
competence or knowledge in historic preservation; and,
To the extent they are available within the community, the historic preservation
review commission should include two (2) members who meet the Secretary's
professional qualifications standards, including those individuals with minimum
educational and experience in related professional fields.'
1 The professional fields include history, architecture, architectural history, planning, pre -historic
and historic archaeology, folklore, cultural anthropology, curation, conservation, landscape
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 4
In this capacity, SHPO issued Technical Assistance Bulletin #14 to provide a guide for
CLGs, including the "Establishment of The Preservation Commission". This document
was last updated in 2005. It provides for broad authority by the City to determine the
composition, scope of powers, and decision-making authority and disclosure of
pecuniary and personal interests of review board members based on the local
jurisdiction's practical political and staffing considerations. An excerpted Section 3 of
Bulletin #14 is attached for reference (Attachment E).
In addition to formation of preservation commission, other responsibilities of a CLG
include enforcement of state and local legislation for the designation and protection of
historic properties, maintenance of a system for the survey and inventory of historic
properties, provision for adequate public participation in the local historic preservation
program, and performing responsibilities delegated by the state.
Benefits of being a CLG include:
• Eligibility for Federal grants from the Historic Preservation Fund administered by
the SHPO;
• A variety of technical assistance including training opportunities, resource
assistance, publications and grants, streamlining by adopting the Secretary of
Interior's Standards to allow the use of categorical exemptions under CEQA; and,
• Indirect economic benefits of commitment to historic preservation including
increase in property values, pride of place and revitalization of historic
downtowns, adaptive reuse of districts and/or buildings resulting in conservation
of resources, uses existing infrastructure, local job generation and purchasing,
supports small business development and heritage tourism, and enhances the
quality of life and community character.
• Ability to streamline project approval using categorical exemptions by following
adopted National Register/California Register criteria and the Secretary of
Interior Standards under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and
Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA).
Current Process
With respect to Cultural Resources, TCC Section 9252 provides for the following roles
and responsibilities, in summary:
architecture or related disciplines such as urban planning, American studies, American
civilization or cultural geography.
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 5
Community Development Department
• The Community Development Director has the authority to approve, approve
with conditions, or deny Certificates of Appropriateness for improvements
requiring a City building permit. The Community Development Director may
consult with and receive a recommendation of the Planning Commission, in
their capacity as the Historic Resource Committee, prior to rendering a
decision. (Section 9252g)
• The Community Development Director, or on appeal the City Council, may
approve a Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition of a Designated
Cultural Resource if it finds that the structure/site is a hazard to public health
or safety and repairs or stabilization is not physically possible; the site is
required for a public use which will be of more benefit to the public than the
Cultural Resource, and there is no feasible alternative location for the public
use.
• If the property is a designated cultural resource, the Community Director or
City Council on appeal must find that it is not feasible to preserve or restore
the structure, taking into consideration the economic feasibility of alternatives
to the proposal, the proposed replacement structure does not detract from the
neighborhood or reconstruction or restoration is not economically feasible or
practical. (Section 9252111)
• The Community Development Department shall have the authority to
implement the enforcement by serving notice requiring the removal of any
violation of this section, calling upon the city attorney to institute any
necessary legal proceedings to enforce the provisions of this section, calling
upon the Chief of Police and authorized agents to assist in the enforcement of
this section, and/or, the City Attorney may maintain an action for injunctive
relief to restrain or enjoin or to cause the correction or removal of any
violation of this section, or for an injunction in appropriate cases. (Section
92521)
The Community Development Department makes recommendations to the
Planning Commission regarding nominations to the Tustin Historic Plaque
program and commendation letters to owners of outstanding properties.
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission advises the City Council on all matters relating to
historic and cultural resources, including:
Matters affecting the establishment of a Cultural Resources District.
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 6
• Designation of Cultural Resources.
• Acts as liaison between residents, property owners, and the City Council
within a Cultural Resources District.
• Reviews and recommends nominations to the Historic Register Plaque
Program and Commendation Program for Outstanding Properties to the City
Council.
• Approves or recommends approval of environmental determinations related
to historic resources.
In performing its historic and cultural resources duties, the Planning Commission
shall not exercise any independent final decision-making authority or expend City
funds. Actions of the Commission shall not be considered actions of the City and
shall not be represented as such. (Section 9252c)
Since the Planning Commission assumed the duties of the HRC, it has
accomplished the following:
• Recommended City Council approve Residential Design Guidelines for the
CRD
• Recommended City Council approve Commercial Design Guidelines for the
CRD
• Recommended Approval of eight (8) Mills Act contract applications
• Plaque Program: Twenty one (21) Historic Plaques & Commendations
• Recommended Approval of the Pioneer's Program
• Provided support for Hewes House nomination to National Register of
Historic Places and has encouraged the nomination of additional properties
to the National Register
• Recommended Approval of Downtown Commercial Core Specific Plan
• Attends staff provided and outside training in historic preservation
City Council
• Designates any area within the city as a Cultural Resources District, and any
improvement or natural feature as a cultural resource. (Section 9252d).
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
Page 7
• Makes final determination on nominations to the Historic Register Plaque
Program.
• Makes final determination on appeal for a Certificate of Appropriateness for
the demolition of a Designated Cultural Resource.
• Approves Mills Act contacts.
Public Comment
On April 3, 2018, the City Council received public comment from Linda Jennings related
to the Planning Commission acting as the Historic Resources Committee (Attachment
A). In summary, Ms. Jennings stated that Old Town is unique and deserves special
treatment; the majority of Planning Commissioners do not reside in Old Town, yet are
making decisions regarding buildings in Old Town; historic preservation training is not
required of Planning Commissioners; the Planning Commission may be unable to deal
with conflicts between the desires of developers and the desires of preservationists; the
number of required meetings is at issue; and the State Office of Historic Preservation
(SHPO) indicated that the number of meetings required is at issue and that their work
program is troubling.
Other Cities in Orange County
The cities of Santa Ana, San Clemente and Tustin are the only Certified Local
Governments in Orange County. Santa Ana and San Clemente each maintain a
separate historic resources commission.
The Planning Commission of the City of Ontario acts as the Historic Preservation
Commission and hears matters related to District or Landmark Designation, Certificates
of Appropriateness on designated structures or demolitions, Certificates of Economic
Hardship and Mills Act contracts. The Ontario Planning Commission formed a Historic
Preservation Subcommittee consisting of three (3) Planning Commission Members
which is the hearing body for requests for removal from the eligibility list and makes
recommendations to the full Commission on miscellaneous requests.
Option
Maintain the Planning Commission acting as the Historic Resource
Commission.
Re-establish a separate historic resources commission.
Other action or direction the City Council deems appropriate.
City Council Report
July 17, 2018
Historic Resources Committee
RECOMMENDATION
Pleasure of the City Council.
Elaine Dove, AICP, RLA Elizabeth A. Binsack
Senior Planner Director of Community Development
Attachment: A. City Council Minutes, April 3, 2018
B. Ordinance 1332
C. Correspondence from State Office of Historic Preservation
D. Excerpt from City of Tustin Certified Local Government Program
2016-2017 Annual Report
E. Technical Assistance Bulletin #14 (Excerpt — Section 3)
ATTACHMENT A
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES, APRIL 3, 2018
CITY OF TUSTIN REGULAR
APRIL 3, 2018
MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
COUNCIL CHAMBER
AND TUSTIN HOUSING AUTHORITY
'' 300 CENTENNIAL WAY, TUSTIN
Rebecca Gomez, Mayor Pro Tem
Jeffrey C. Parker, City Manager/
Dr. Allan Bernstein, Councilmember
Al Murray, Mayor City Treasurer
Charles E. Puckett, Councilmember
Erica N. Rabe, City Clerk
Letitia Clark, Councilmember
David E. Kendig, City Attorney
MINUTES OF THE CLOSED SESSION
MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
5:30 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER — Meeting #2431 at 5:32 p.m.
ROLL CALL — City Clerk
Present: Mayor Al Murray and Councilmembers Dr. Allan Bernstein and Charles
E. Puckett and Letitia Clark
Absent: Mayor Pro Tem Rebecca Gomez
City Clerk: Erica N. Rabe, City Clerk
Others Present: Jeffrey C. Parker, City Manager; David E. Kendig, City Attorney
PUBLIC INPUT — None
CLOSED SESSION UPDATE — Deputy City Attorney Lois Bobak: The Council will discuss
Item Nos. 1,3, and 4 and will not consider Item No. 2.
CLOSED SESSION ITEMS - The Brown Act permits legislative bodies to discuss certain
matters without members of the public present. The City Council finds, based on advice
from the City Attorney, that discussion in open session of the following matters will prejudice
the position of the City in existing and anticipated litigation:
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL —ANTICIPATED LITIGATION -Significant
exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2):
(Two Cases)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — ANTICIPATED LITIGATION - Initiation
of litigation pursuant to Government Code § 54956.9(d)(4): (Two Cases)
3. LIABILITY CLAIMS - [Government Code § 54956.95] — (Five cases)
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 1 of 12
A. Claim of Carmen Saraleguy, Claim No. 17-31
B. Claim of Alejandro Rodriguez, Claim No. 17-40
C. Claim of Beatriz Valdez, Claim No. 18-04
D. Claim of Gloria Bautista, Claim No. 18-05
E. Claim of Ignacio Garcia, Claim No. 17-49
4. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS - [Government Code
54956.8]: (Two Cases)
A. Property
! A. -ON: 430-251-28, and a portion of Parcel 1 in Book
Address/Description„
17542, Page 974, Official Records
Agency ..._ . _.....
1 City of Tustin..... _ .....
City Negotiators
Jeffrey C. Parker, City Manager, Jerry Craig, Deputy
. _. . ..
; Director of Economic Development......-
....-.... _
,.. _.............. ............
Negotiating Parties
SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union; Bill Cheney,
President/CEO .. ..
Under Negotiation
.. _ ..._
I Price and Terms of Payment
B. ; Property
j 430-381-27,28,29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35
Address/Descripton
_.... _
Agency
City of Tustin . _ . _...._...... I
City Negotiators
Jeffrey C. Parker, City Manager, Jerry Craig, Deputy j
Director of Economic Development
Negotiating Parties
Jamboree Housing Corporation; Laura Archuleta,
1. President
Under Negotiation
Price and Terms of Payment
Recessed at 5:34 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tem Gomez arrived at 5:34 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR
MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
7:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER — Meeting #2431 at 7:04 p.m.
PRESENTATION OF COLORS, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE —
American Legion
CLOSED SESSION REPORT — Deputy City Attorney Lois Bobak: The Council
unanimously denied Claim Nos. 17-31, 17-40, 17-49 18-04 and. 18-05. Other than that; °..
City Coundl Apol 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes page 2 of 12
there was no reportable action.
I
ORAL COMMUNICATIONIPUBLIC INPUT —
1.
Jon Dumitru
2.
Jan Strahl
3.
Leo Cid
4.
Darlene Savord
5.
Betty Robinson
6.
Deborah Kurilchyk
7.
Tom Smith
8.
Laura Houston
9.
Arthur Nuriyev
10.
Brenda Nimota
11.
Linda Jennings
PRESENTATIONS —
Mayor Murray presented a Certificate of Recognition to Officer Javon Smith in recognition
of being named 2017 Tustin/Santa Ana Rotary Officer of the Year.
Mayor Murray presented Certificates of Recognition to the First Place winners of the Tustin
Area Council for Fine Arts' 28th Annual Student Art Invitational.
Mayor Murray presented a Proclamation to Stephanie Luu, Outreach Coordinator for the
Fair Housing Foundation, in recognition of April as Fair Housing Month.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS - All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are
considered to be routine and will be enacted by one motion without discussion. Persons
wishing to speak regarding Consent Calendar matters should file a "Request to Speak' form
with the City Cleric. (Agenda Items 1 through 5)
It was moved by Councilmember Puckett and seconded by Councilmember Clark to pull
Item Nos. 4 and 5 and move the balance as recommended by staff.
Motion carried: 5-0
1. WAIVE READING IN FULL OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS ON
THE AGENDA
Motion: That the City Council waive reading in full of all ordinances and
resolutions on the agenda and declare that said titles which appear on the public
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 3 of 12
agenda shall be determined to have been read by title and further reading
waived. j
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
HELD MARCH 20, 2018.
Motion: That the City Council approve the Action Minutes of the Regular Meeting
of the City Council held on March 20, 2018.
3. RATIFICATION OF PAYROLL AND DEMANDS
The City Council has approved the use of Government Code Section 37208 to
expedite the payment of City of Tustin obligations that are in accordance with the
approved budget or continued operations authorizations.
Motion: That the City Council approve Payroll in the amounts of $730,581.43;
and Demands in the amount of $3,202,502.15.
4. FIRST AMENDMENT TO EXCLUSIVE NEGOTIATION AGREEMENT WITH
SCHOOLSFIRST FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
Request City Council approval to enter into a First Amendment to the Exclusive
Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union
("SchoolsFirst") by extending the negotiation schedule through October 20, 2018. U
Deputy City Attorney Lois Bobak clarified the extension date of the agreement is
October 20, 2018 which was incorrectly stated as October 16, 2018 on the staff
report.
It was moved by Mayor Murray and seconded by Councilmember Bernstein to
authorize the City Manager to enter into a First Amendment to an Exclusive
Negotiation. Agreement by and between the City of Tustin and SchoolsFirst
Federal Credit Union, subject to any non -substantive modifications as may be
deemed necessary and/or recommended by the City's special real estate counsel
or the City Attorney.
Motion carried: 5-0
5. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CITY STAFF TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ACC-
OC'S PLANNING EFFORTS REGARDING COUNTY -WIDE PERMANENT
SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
The proposed Resolution 18-21 would, if adopted, authorize City staff to
represent the City in meetings and discussions being coordinated by the
Association of California Cities, Orange County (ACC -OC) regarding potential
allocations and siting locations of "permanent supportive housing" units. These J.
discussions relate to County wide efforts to address homelessness in the County.
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 4 of 12
City staff is not, however, authorized to commit the City to a proposed allocation
or plan of site locations unless such allocation or plan is considered and approved
by the City Council.
City Manager Jeffrey C. Parker provided an update regarding the proposed
resolution.
It was moved by Mayor Murray and seconded by Councilmember Bernstein to
approve the revised Resolution No. 18-21 authorizing City Staff to participate in
the Association of California Cities Orange County's planning efforts regarding
County -Wide Permanent Supportive Housing.
Motion carried: 5-0
RESOLUTION NO. 18-21
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUSTIN
AUTHORIZING CITY STAFF TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ASSOCIATION OF
CALIFORNIA CITIES ORANGE COUNTY'S PLANNING EFFORTS
REGARDING COUNTY -WIDE PERMANENT SUPPORTIVE HOUSING
REGULAR BUSINESS ITEMS — Matters listed under Regular Business are generally
proposals for new legislation or items requiring discussion. (Agenda Items 6-8)
6. FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 1496 TO AMEND CITY CODE
SECTION 5331n BY RE-ESTABLISHING PREFERENTIAL PERMIT ONLY
PARKING ON BIRCHFIELD DRIVE, SANDBROOK DRIVE AND
SILVERBROOK DRIVE
Preferential permit parking on Birchfield Drive, Sandbrook Drive and Silverbrook
Drive was previously approved in August 2016 (i.e., first and second readings on
August 2nd and 16th, respectively). The latest recently approved Ordinance to
amend City Code Section 5331 n to include Old Town residential streets
inadvertently omitted Birchfield Drive, Sandbrook Drive and Silverbrook Drive.
Ordinance No. 1496 adds these three residential streets back into Tustin City
Code Section 5331 n.
It was moved by Councilmember Puckett and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Gomez to introduce and have the first reading of Ordinance No. 1496 to re-
establish preferential permit only parking on Birchfield Drive, Sandbrook Drive
and Silverbrook Drive, and set the second reading for the Council's next
scheduled meeting.
Motion carried: 5-0
ORDINANCE NO. 1496
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 5 of 12
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUSTIN,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TUSTIN CITY CODE SUBSECTION 5331n
REGARDING DESIGNATION OF ZONES FOR PARKING BY PERMIT ONLY 1 ;
7. . SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1483
Ordinance No. 1483 amends Article 9 Chapter 4 of the Tustin City Code, related
to temporary signs in the public right-of-way, in accordance with a 2015 United
States Supreme Court decision.
It was moved by Councilmember Bernstein and seconded by Councilmember
Clark to have second reading by title only and adoption of Ordinance No. 1483.
Motion carried: 5-0
ORDINANCE NO. 1483
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF TUSTIN,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING TUSTIN CITY CODE SECTION 940347; AMENDING
TUSTIN CITY CODE SECTIONS 9402, 9403d2, 9403e11, 9403e13, 9404a1 k,
9404a1 n, 9404a3c, 9406D, and 9406E2; AND DELETING TUSTIN CITY CODE
SECTIONS 9403e14, 9404a1 s, and 9404C6, RELATING TO TEMPORARY.
OFF -PREMISES COMMERCIAL SIGNS AND TEMPORARY NOW
COMMERCIAL SIGNS.
8. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Assistant City Manager Matt West provided an overview of key legislative items
for 2018.
COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS AND REPORTS
Councilmember Bernstein
March 21
o Attended the American Legion Post 227 fundraiser at Famous Dave's Restaurant.
o Attended the Newport Bay Watershed Executive Committee Board meeting.
March 22
o Attended the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) General Assembly
meeting; keynote speaker was by former Navy Seal, Curt Cronin.
o Had the honor of sitting on a panel regarding securing Orange County's water future;
a lot of great information was shared.
..._J
March 23
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 6 of 12
Attended the League of California Cities - Orange County General Membership meeting;
public safety issues were addressed; urged everyone to visit www.keepcalsafe.orq website.
March 27
Attended the Association of California Cities of Orange County (ACCOC) Homelessness
Taskforce meeting; Tustin has taken a leadership position with homelessness; very proud
of what has been accomplished in Tustin.
March 28
o Attended the League of California Cities Board meeting; discussed several pieces of
legislation regarding SB 827 and Prop 69; announced Prop 69 will be on the June
ballot.
o Attended the Orange County Sanitation Board of Directors meeting.
o Attended the Association of California Cities of Orange County (ACCOC) Legislation
meeting; discussed fourteen (14) different Legislation Bills.
March 31
Attended the Parks and Recreation Department Annual Egg Hunt event great attendance;
everyone had a great time.
Wished everyone a Happy Easter and Happy Passover.
Councilmember Puckett
March 21
o Attended the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) Joint Capitol meeting.
o Attended the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) Joint Communications meeting.
March 22
Attended the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) General Assembly
meeting.
March 24
o Attended the Habitat for Humanity Framing Ceremony.
o Attended the Grand Opening for the Orange County Animal Shelter.
March 28
Attended the City of Tustin Citizen Academy Meet and Greet; very well done event.
March 29
o Attended the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) Environmental Committee
meeting.
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 7 of 12
o Attended the fundraiser for Orange County 5"' District Supervisor, Lisa Bartlett. r.-1
March 31 L
Attended the Parks and Recreation Department Annual Egg Hunt event; great attendance;
enjoyed the Pancake Breakfast organized by the Tustin Community Foundation; great job
by the Parks and Recreation staff.
April 2
Attended the Tustin Exchange Club meeting; Police Chief Charles F. Celano was the guest
speaker; thanked Police Chief Charles F. Celan for. attending.
Wished everyone a Happy Easter.
Councilmember Clark
March 31 and April 1
Was the keynote speaker for the Community College Female Student Leader Organization
for their Women's History Month Program; was held at the Irvine Ranch Water District
Office.
March 22
o Served on a panel at Orange Coast College for Women in Government; served on
the panel with Newport Beach City Council Member, Diane Dixon, former Newport
Beach Mayor, Evelyn Heart, and former Costa Mesa Mayor, Mary Hombuckle.. [.I
o Attended the Orange County Council of .Governments (OCCOG) General Assembly
meeting.
March 27
Attended a committee meeting with local elected officials for the 2018 California Women
League Conference which will be held April 25th -2r at the Disneyland Hotel.
April 3
Attended the Clinic in the Park. Board meeting.
Was unable to attend Egg Hunt, due to family obligation.
Mayor Pro Tem Gomez
March 22
Attended the Santa Ana River Flood Protection Agency (SARFPA) meeting; received
updates on the construction proposals and projects occurring near the Prado Dam.
March 24
o ' Attended the Tustin Habitat for Humanity Housing Project Framing Ceremony.li J .
o Attended the Women's History Month Celebration in Irvine.
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes page 8 of 12
o Spoke briefly at the Orange County Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer
(LGBTQ) Youth Conference in Santa Ana.
March 28
Attended the City of Tustin Citizen Academy Meet and Greet; appreciates participants
attending the program; thanked city staff who are working to prepare for the Citizen
Academy.
March 30
o Toured the Garden Grove School District offices; met with the Garden Grove
Superintendent; Gabriela Mafi as well as many parents and teachers.
o Attended the Tustin Senior Center Spring Brunch.
March 31
Attended the Parks and Recreation Department Annual Egg Hunt event; wonderful event
prepared by the Tustin Parks and Recreation Department; watching children find the golden
egg was the best part of the day; thanked all the volunteers and employees who provided
a spectacular Community Event and Pancake Breakfast.
Requested staff to look at the comments made by Linda Jennings from the Tustin Historical
Preservation; has been. an area of concem; stated Planning Commission has not done
I enough continuing education in this area; asked staff to bring back to the City Council with
recommendations within the next 30-60 days.
Mayor Murray
Manch 21
Attended the Association of California Cities of Orange County (ACCOC) Executive
meeting.
March 22
o Attended the Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) General Assembly
meeting; keynote speaker was former Navy Seal, Curt Cronin; announced Council
Member Bemstein attended the Water Panel meeting with Association of Califomia
Cities of Orange County (ACCOC) Chief Executive Officer, Heather Stratman.
o Attended the City of Orange, Mayor Teresa "Tits" Smith, State of the City.
o Attended the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Board meeting.
March 23
Attended the League of Califomia Cities - Orange County General Membership meeting.
March 24
City council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 9 of 12
The Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) in conjunction with the City of Tustin, American
Red Cross, and community volunteers installed free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
for Tustin residents; thanked OCFA Fire Division Chief, Andy Kovacs for his hard work with
the program; 333 smoke alarms and 104 carbon monoxide alarms were installed for the
residents in the 258 homes.
March 26
Attended the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Board of Directors meeting;
discussed the Orange County Street Car Project.
March 27
o Attended the Association of California Cities of Orange County (ACCOC)
Homelessness Taskforce meeting; thanked City Manager, Jeffrey C. Parker and
Council Member Bernstein for attending.
o Attended the unveiling, at Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC), of their
Children's In -Patient Mental Health Center, very nice event.
March 28
Attended the City of Tustin Citizen Academy Meet and Greet; thirty-four (34) students are
participating in the program; thanked City Clerk, Erica N. Rabe and her staff for their hand
work put forth with the program.
March 29
o Attended the Association of California Cities of Orange County (ACCOC) Legislative
and Regulatory meeting.
o Attended the Los Angeles -San Diego -San Luis Obispo Rail Corridor (LOSSAN
Corridor) meeting.
o Attended the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) Special Board meeting.
March 31
Attended the Parks and Recreation Department's Annual Egg Hunt event; Tustin
Community Foundation organized the Pancake Breakfast hosted by Snooze Restaurant;
daughter Emily Murray, had the honor of kicking -off the event; congratulated the Parks and
Recreation staff and Community Services Commissioners on a successful event.
April 2
Attended the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) Executive Board meeting.
April 3
Attended the Orange County City Managers and Mayors Hearing before Federal Judge
David Carter; presented to Judge Carter the City of Tustin's efforts' in addressing the homelessness issue and transitional housing; discussed the Orange County RescueI..,) Mission, the Veterans Outpost and future projects Tustin is involved with.
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 10 of 12
ADJOURNED IN HONOR OF
CHRISTOPHER "TRIPP" ZANETIS
BY MAYOR PRO TEM GOMEZ
Tustin has a proud military history and I am honored to adjourn tonight's meeting.
Christopher Zanetis had many titles, Fire Marshall, Captain, Scholar, Attorney, Son, Activist,
and Friend, but most everyone knew him simply as "Tripp."
Christopher "Tripp Zanetis, died March 15, 2018 near the border of western Iraq and Syria
when his U.S. military helicopter crashed during a troop transport, killing all seven service
members on board.
While a sophomore at New York University (NYU), Zanetis lived a few blocks from the Works
Trade Center during the attack of Sept. 11, 2001. He volunteered with the Fire Department
of New York on 9/11 for 14 hours. Zanetis graduated cum laude in 2003 from NYU with a
BA in politics. After graduation, Zanetis joined the New York City Fire Department, later
promoted to fire marshal and was recognized for his bravery as part of an investigative unit.
As the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan intensified in 2008, Zanetis joined the Air National.
Guard, the Air Force arm of the National Guard. He flew in the Air Force's combat search
and rescue helicopter and was deployed to both Afghanistan and Iraq. Zanetis, serving his
third tour, was nearing the end of his 10 -year commitment with the Air National Guard and
received the Meritorious Service Medal and five Air Medals for combat missions. As an
active National Guard pilot, he would be called to provide civilian search and rescue
services.
In 2014, while still on active duty and on leave from the FDNY, Zanetis entered Stanford
Law School. Zanetis joined the Stanford Journal of International Law and the International
Refugee Assistance Project, where he was able to help acquire a Special Immigrant Visa
for an Afghan interpreter who worked with a classmate.
During his last year at Stanford Law, Zanetis served as the co -president of the Stanford Law
Veteran's Organization, facilitated Stanford Law's inaugural Outlaw Conference on LGBTQ
Advocacy in the Workplace and won the National LGBT Bar Association's Student
Leadership Award in 2017. A talented pianist, he wrote and co-produced the Stanford Law
School musical.
Zanetis secured an extemship with the Office of Legal Affairs at NATO headquarters in
Brussels, Belgium, where he spent six months working on diverse legal issues.
While at Stanford Law, Zanetis spearheaded the effort to rededicate the Stanford Law
Sc600l'sWorld War 11 Memorial plaque and had it installed on the school grounds where It
cotild be viewed by the public for the first time in several decades.
Stanford Law School Dean M. Elizabeth Magill said "Tripp Zanetis was a beloved student,
friend and community member here at Stanford Law School and will be deeply missed. We
are heartbroken. at his loss. He was one of the most extraordinary students I had the
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 11 of 12
privilege of knowing and he will long be remembered in the institution."
Law Professor Michelle Wilde Anderson wrote in a tribute, "With hardwiring for public
service, the sweet energy of a puppy and a brilliant, curious mind, Tripp was making a life
that would make a difference. He was building toward elected office, and he would have
been a leader for our times. Tripp Zanetis was gold. We are richer for his life, and we owe
something back for it."
In honor of Zanetis, a 2017 graduate of Stanford Law School, flags across the Stanford
campus were lowered to half-staff.
Zanetis' name will be engraved in the lobby of Stanford's Memorial Auditorium, where the
walls are dedicated to members of the Stanford community who have died in all wars, most
recently a section for those lost in Afghanistan and Iraq.
After graduating from Stanford with pro bono distinction last year, he was working as an
associate in the litigation department of New York City law firm Debevoise & Plimpton.
Zanetis was a member of the Bar of New York.
The more I learned about him, the more I referred to him as the modern-day Forrest Gump.
While serving duty, he once was pinned down and had to be rescued himself. Serving in
the rescue efforts was Prince Harry. Along with his many accomplishments, Tripp loved
musical theater. He once tried to school a waitress in restaurant inspired by the musical
South Pacific. His friends had to stop him or they would not have been able to place their
order! He was a fitness buff who loved cross -fit and traveling.
Tripp was honored this past week in New York by his FDNY colleagues, family and friends.
His funeral procession which was blocks long began at his firehouse Engine 28 Ladder 11
and ended in Washington Square.
He was a man of service and a great leader. We all could make this world a better place
by following his example of service to others.
Tripp, a native of Indiana, is survived by his parents, John and Sarah Zanetis, and sisters,
Angela and Britt. His family and many friends will remember him for his spirit, his love of
life, his ability to advocate for others, and his service to our country.
Tripp, we wish you safe travels on your next journey.
ADJOURNED at 8:28 p.m. The next meeting is scheduled on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 for
the Closed Session Meeting at 5:30 p.m. and the Regular Business Meeting at 7:00 p.m.
in the Co cil Cham 3 0 Centennial Way, Tustin, California.
ELWY9 A. MU RAY, ERICA N. RABE,
Mayor City Clerk
City Council April 3, 2018
Meeting Minutes Page 12 of 12
ATTACHMENT B
ORDINANCE NO. 1332
ORDINANCE NO. 1332
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TUSTIN, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING SECTION 9252 C AND ASSOCIATED
SECTIONS OF THE TUSTIN CITY CODE RELATED TO
ASSIGNING CULTURAL AND HISTORIC RESOURCES
RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
The City Council of the City of Tustin, California, finds and ordains as follows:
Section 1.
A. That on January 15 and February 20, 2007, the City Council, after
consideration of matters related to consolidation and realignment of
commission/committee responsibilities and ways to minimize impacts on
City resources related to City Boards, Commissions, and Committees,
initiated and referred draft Ordinance No. 1332 to the Planning Commission
for consideration;
B. That State law does not mandate that cities have a Cultural Resources
District or a Historic Resource Committee and that the City Council does
have the discretion to assign the duties of the Committee to the Planning
Commission;
C. That the Council has more flexibility in filling the vacant positions (of the
Planning Commission in their role as the Historic Resource Committee)
because the State's recommended professional qualifications no longer
apply;
D. That the Planning Commission acting in this capacity could develop a list of
desired duties and responsibilities regarding cultural and historic resources
for the City Council's review and consideration on an annual basis;
E. That there is less of an impact on the City's general fund in that the
Committee would not be mandated to meet a minimum of four times per
year or attend an approved training workshop each year,
F. That on March 13, 2007, a public hearing was duly noticed, called, and held
on Code Amendment 07-001 by the Planning Commission, and the Planning
Commission recommended that the City Council approve Code Amendment
07-001;
G. That on March 20, 2007, a public hearing was duly noticed, called, and held
on Code Amendment 07-001 by the City Council; and,
Ordinance No. 1332
Page 1 of 3
H. That this ordinance is not subject to the California Environmental Quality Act
("CEQA") pursuant to Title 14, California Code of Regulations, Sections
15060(c)(2) (the activity will not result in a direct or reasonably foreseeable
indirect physical change in the environment) and 15060(c)(3) (the activity is
not a project as defined in Section 15378) because it has no potential for
resulting in physical change to the environment, directly or indirectly.
Section 2. Subsection c of Section 9252 of the Tustin City Code is amended to
read:
C. Planning Commission
The Planning Commission shall advise the City Council on all matters
relating to historic and cultural resources, including without limitation, matters
affecting the establishment of a Cultural Resource District, designation of Cultural
Resources, and as a liaison between residents, property owners, and the City
Council within a Cultural Resources District. In performing its historic and cultural
resources duties, the Planning Commission shall not exercise any independent
final decision-making authority or expend city funds. Actions of the Commission
shall not be considered actions of the City and shall not be represented as such.
Section 3. Any reference within the Code to the Historic Resource Committee or
Cultural Resource Advisory Committee is hereby changed to Planning Commission. ,
The City Clerk is authorized to make this name change within the Code as deemed
appropriate.
Section 4. The provisions of this Ordinance shall become effective at 12:01
a.m. on the thirty-first day after passage.
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED this 1St day of May, 2007.
LOU BONE,
Mayor
ATTEST:
14 11''1 11 1 - I
1110 1 � � � I
•
Ordinance No. 1332
Page 2 of 3
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ss.
CITY OF TUSTIN )
PAMELA STOKER, : City Clerk and ex -officio Clerk of the City Council of the City of .
Tustin, California, does hereby certify that the whole number of the members of the City
Council of the City of Tustin is 5; that the above and foregoing Ordinance No. 1332 was
duv and regularly introduced at a regular meeting of the Tustin City Council, held on the
17 day of April, 2007 and was given its second reading, passed, and adopted at a
regular meeting of the City Council held on the 1St day of May, 2007 by the following
vote:
COUNCILMEMBER AYES: Bone, Amante, Davert. Palmer (4)
COUNCILMEMBER NOES: Kawashima (1)
COUNCILMEMBER ABSTAINED: None (0)
COUNCILMEMBER ABSENT: None (0)
City Clerk
Ordinance No. 1332
Page 3 of 3
ATTACHMENT C
CORRESPONDENCE FROM
STATE OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY
OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
P.O. BOX 942896
SACRAMENTO, CA 942964)001
(916) 653-6624 Fax (916) 653-9824
calshpo@ohp.parks,ca.gov
www,ohp. parks.ca.gov
April 2, 2007
Elizabeth A. Binsack
Community Development Director
City of Tustin
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA 92780
Dear Ms. Binsack:
RE: CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 1332
ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, Govemor
We received your letter on March 27, 2007 advising us of the City's proposal to
consolidate the Planning Commission and the Historic Resource Committee, and
advising us how to provide comments. While we welcome the opportunity to comment,
we are very concerned that we are just now being contacted by the City, when the issue
has been before the City Council since January 2007.
In the "Mayor's Welcome" on the city's website, Mr. Bone notes that the City of Tustin is
a modern city, "ever reaching out to the future." But his welcome also says, "Much like
the glorious old trees that grace its landscape, Tustin is rooted in the past --its early
heritage is embodied by the captivating historic homes and commercial storefronts along
the streets of Old Town." This connection of moving forward while at the same time -
acknowledging and fostering heritage is the very basis of modern historic preservation
planning principles. It is both ironic and sad that in spite of your Mayor's welcoming
message, the City is considering the elimination of its historic preservation body.
Tustin's consideration to eliminate its historic preservation program runs counter to what
we are seeing statewide. Other local jurisdictions are growing their historic preservation
programs, mostly within planning departments. The City of Richmond's local
preservation program was certified earlier this year by the National Park Service. The
City of Los Angeles recently launched a comprehensive historic preservation program
and opened its Office of Historic Resources; their Certified Local Government application
is under review by the National Park Service. The cities of Benicia and Woodland have
submitted draft CLG applications. Sacramento County planning staff is meeting with
Office of Hist reservation (OHP) staff tomorrow to initiate the application process.
The approach to historic preservation that is the basis for the Certified Local Government
program is a sound, nation-wide accepted approach. Most importantly, it integrates
historic preservation into land use planning and policy. By having a sound ordinance, an
ongoing survey program, a commission or board with defined duties and responsibilities,
and a public education program, this approach provides predictabilitylo residents,
Mayor and City Council
April 2, 2007
Page 2
residents, property owners, developers and other parties who have interests under
consideration by government officials. The CLG approach does not guarantee a
preservation solution for any issue, but it ensures that historic preservation is at the table
and is given consideration.
One size does not fit all and the issue of consolidating boards and commissions that
affect historic preservation is not unique to Tustin. Although there are local jurisdictions
which have a preservation review board that is a subcommittee of the planning
commission, or perhaps part of a design review board, it is not generally recommended.
When this arrangement works, it is because there is a strong preservation ethic and the
recognition that the aesthetic and economic benefits of judiciously preserving the
significant resources that link the present with the past are part of the stewardship
responsibilities of public service. For example, for over twenty years the City of
Sacramento governed with a combined Historic Preservation and Design Review
although recently they were separated into two. Others, including the City of Ontario,
use their Planning Commission as their historic preservation commission. However, in
these cases; while the membership of the commissions or boards have been combined
or merged, the local government still maintains a dedicated historic preservation
program. In spite of these exceptions, if preservation is to be integrated into the broader
planning processes, and we believe it should be, it is generally best for historic
preservation to have a voice independent of other boards and commissions, especially
when development and preservation seem to be in conflict.
We do have some specific observations and questions about the City's analysis as
contained in City Council Agenda Reports for January 15, 2007, February, 20, 2007 and
March 20, 2007 meetings, and Planning Commission Resolution No. 4057 adopted
March 13, 2007. First of all, what are the fiscal impacts to the city? Resolution No. 457,
Section I. E. determines if the ordinance were passed "that there is less of an impact on
the City's general fund in that the committee would not be mandated to meet a minimum
of four times per year or attend an approved training workshop each year." The Council
Agenda Report for March 20, 2007 states that "Code amendment 07-001 is a City -
initiated project. It is anticipated that the adoption of Ordinance No. 1332 may result in a
cost savings to the City due to the consolidation of responsibilities." (Emphasis added)
Has a fiscal analysis been conducted or is this speculation?
Per the CLG Program Requirements, each of the commissioners is "required to attend at
least one informational or educational meeting, seminar, workshop or conference per
year that pertains directly to the work and functions of the commission." It does not
seem onerous for members of any commission or committee to spend two or three hours
per year becoming better informed about issues and resources pertinent to the work of
that commission or committee. One of the services provided by the OHP is the
development and presentation of on -sight training geared towards the specific needs of
a local government, at no cost to the local government. So that while commission and
committee members are encouraged to attend relevant workshops and seminars, the
commission is also able to ask professionals, including OHP staff, to provide on-site
training to meet this requirement.
Mayor and City Council
April 2, 2007
Page 3
Section I.E. also implies that the CLG requirement that the Committee meet a minimum
of four times per year impacts the City's general fund. It is hard to understand how an
active preservation committee, even one whose scope of powers is only advisory, could
accomplish anything meaningful or meet the concerns or interests of the local citizens by
meeting only four times a year. Like the City of San Diego's Historic Resources Board,
most jurisdictions find it useful for their preservation board to meet at least monthly.
Given that, per the provisions of Tustin City Code Section 9252, the Historic Resources
Committee does "not exercise any independent final decision making authority; or
expend City funds," and it does not appear that members of the Historic Resources
Committee receive any form of compensation for their service, it is difficult to see how
eliminating the Historic Resources Committee would result in any savings to the City.
Section I.C. of the Planning Commission resolution appears to imply -that there is a
perception that meeting requirements of being a CLG constrains the City Council in
some way. In fact, the requirement is simply that "an adequate and qualified historic
preservation review commission of at least five members with a "demonstrated interest,
competence, or knowledge in historic preservation" be established by local law. OHP
recommends but does not require that the commission include at least two members
with professional expertise relevant to historic preservation, but in no way dictates or
limits the Council's flexibility or autonomy in filling positions of the committee. The City
Council has the discretion to appoint, set terms, assign duties and transmit authority in
accordance with the local ordinance, not as a result of having a Historic Resource
Committee or being a CLG.
The issue of abolishing term limits is the city's prerogative. Keep in mind, however, term
limits are generally seen as a way to protect committee members acting in their capacity
in making autonomous decisions rather than making politically directed decisions so as
not to be removed from the committee. Preservation issues and interests need to be
addressed on their own merit and with equal standing with other planning issues and
interests, not just when and where preservation, is convenient.
In the March 20, 2007 Agenda Report, in referring to CLG grants made by OHP, the
statement is made, "Although the grants have funded noteworthy projects, the grant
amounts have diminished. This is not a true representation of the facts. The OHP is
required to pass through a minimum of 10% of its grant from the federal government to
CI -Gs. In 2001, OHP awarded $250,000 in CLG grants. Due to federal budget cuts in
the Historic Preservation fund, OHP awarded $150,000 in 2002; $93,000 in 2003;
$104,800 in 2004; $110,000 in 2005; and $105,000 in 2006. Although the total amount
granted has decreased since 2001, the size of individual grants has increased, fewer,
but larger, grants have been made. This year five grants were awarded: two at $25,000,
two at $20,000, and one at $15,000.
In the final paragraph of the March 20, 2007 Agenda Report, summarizing the rationale
for the code amendment, is the statement, "If the Ordinance is adopted by the City
Council, the Planning Commission, acting in this capacity, could develop a list of desired
Mayor and City Council
April 2, 2007
Page 4
desired duties and responsibilities (a Work Program) for the City's Council's review and
consideration on an annual basis." This is troubling. It would seem more appropriate to
determine the duties and responsibilities before the amendment is passed so that there
is more of an idea of what the loss of the historic resource committee would really mean.
Also, it is troubling because it throws the responsibility for assigning duties and
responsibilities to the group expected to perform those duties and meet those
responsibilities. Under the proposed amendment, how will the Planning Commission
deal with conflicts between the desires of developers and the desires of
preservationists? Does the Planning Commission have the time, interest, or knowledge
to deal appropriately with preservation laws and practices?
We believe that the City's proposal to eliminate a stand-alone dedicated historic
preservation program by assigning preservation programs to the Planning Commission is
short sighted. It brings into question how the city views its responsibility of acting as
stewards of the community's resources. If the intent is to actually give the preservation
of historic resources consideration and review in line with the intent of state and federal
environmental laws and best planning practices, it would be more advantageous for the
city to amend its code to expand the duties and give the Historic Resources Committee a
certain amount of authority to make decisions and take actions, thereby freeing up the
City Council and the Planning Commission from dealing with the questions and issues
historical commissions typically handle. For your consideration we have enclosed an
excerpt from Drafting Effective Historic Preservation Ordinances, prepared for the OHP
by Clarion Associates, that addresses the establishment of the preservation commission.
The full document is available on our website, www.ohp.parks.ca.ciov.
If you wish to discuss the issues or questions we have raised, please feel free to contact
me at (916) 653-7113.
Sinc rel ,JL
Milford Wayne Dtnaldson, FAIA
State Historic Prdservation Officer
Enclosure
Cc: Mayor Lou Bone and Members of the City Council
Tustin Preservation Conservancy
California Preservation Foundation
Megan Brown, CLG Coordinator, National Park Service
STATE -F CAUR>RNIA — THE RESOURCES AGENCY
OFFICE OF HISTORIC PRESERVATION
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION
P.O. BOX 942896
SACRAMENTO, CA 94296-0001
(916) 653.6624 Fax: (916) 663.9824
calshpo@ohp.parks.ca.gov
www.ohp.parks.ca.gov
June 11, 2007
Scott Reekstin
Senior Planner
City of Tustin
Community Development Department
300 Centennial Way
Tustin, CA 92780
Dear Mr. Reekstin:,
ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, Govemor
RE: CITY OF TUSTIN, CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT STATUS
The Office is in receipt of your May 11, 2007 which includes a copy of Ordinance No.
1332 adopted by the City of Tustin City Council May 1, 2007. This ordinance gives the
Planning Commission the -authority to
• Advise the City Council on all matters related to historic and cultural resources;
• Advise the City Council on matters affecting the establishment of a cultural
resource district;
• Advise the City Council about designation of cultural resources; and to
• Act as a liaison between residents, property owners, and the City Council with a
cultural resources district.
Any reference within the city code to the Historic Resource Committee or Cultural
Resource Advisory Committee is changed to Planning Commission. In addition the
ordinance states that the CLG requirements for a historic preservation body to meet a
minimum of four times per year and to attend annual training would no longer have to
be met, nor would replacement of positions on the Planning Commission be subject to
CLG professional qualifications.
The City's recent action has resulted in a situation that is contrary to the federal
regulations and guidelines for the CLG program, along with those of the California
Office of Historic Preservation. We expressed our views in a letter to Elizabeth Binsack
on April 2, 2007.
How does the City wish to proceed? Is the City interested in exploring any other model,
such as that used by the City of Sacramento or the City of Ontario, where the
requirements of the CLG board is incorporated into or shared with other board? We
would be pleased to entertain such a discussion. -If you are not, please let me know
within 30 days of receipt of this letter, and we will initiate the decertification of your
Mr. Reekstin
June 11, 2007
Page 2
historic preservation program for the reasons stated above. Or, under the terms of the
CLG program you also have the authority to request decertification without cause.
The OHP is committed to assisting all California local governments with their historic
preservation programs. If requested, we will continue to provide assistance to the
extent possible to the City of Tustin, however, the specific benefits available to CI -Gs
will no longer be available.
If you have questions or comments, please do not hesitate to me at (916) 653-9116 or
at lwoodward @ parks.ca. gov_.
Sincerely,
Lucinda Woodward, Supervisor
Local Government Unit
Cc: Megan Brown, CLG Coordinator, National Park Service
Brett Floyd, Chair, Planning Commission
Elizabeth Binsack, Community Development Director
ATTACHMENT D
EXCERPT FROM CITY OF TUSTIN
CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT PROGRAM -
2016-2017 ANNUAL REPORT
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TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE BULLETIN #4
(EXCERPT - SECTION 3)
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1416 9th St,
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Sacramento CA 95814
PO Box 942896
Sacramento CA
94296-0001
phone:
(916) 653-6624
fax:
(916) 653-9824
email:
calshooCdoarks.ca.aov
website:
www.ohn.narks.ca.aov
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SECTION 3: ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PRESERVATION COMMISSION
The ordinance must identify the local entity charged with administering and enforcing
the ordinance and list their specific responsibilities. In many cases the preservation
commission is a separate decision-making body within the local government. In other
cases the City Council or its equivalent may act in the capacity of a preservation
commission. This manual reviews key issues to consider when drafting this crucial
section. For example, should the community require professional qualifications of
preservation commission members? What types of activities should fall under the
preservation commission's jurisdiction? Should the commission have decision-making
authority, or merely be advisory to some other body, such as a planning commission?
The possible strategies for organizing a preservation commission by ordinance are
endless, limited mainly in California by practical political and staffing considerations,
which vary widely by community. This section addresses four basic issues: composition
of the review body, the scope of its powers, the location of final review authority, and
disclosure of pecuniary and personal interests of review board members.
COMPOSITION
Because local preservation ordinances in California are grounded in very broad
enabling authority, communities have wide leeway in the composition of preservation
commissions. Members of a local preservation commission typically are appointed by
the local governing body or chief executive. Preservation commissions typically have
five to nine members—an odd, number helps prevent tie votes. Terms vary widely, with
three years being a typical length. Terms usually are staggered to ensure that
experienced members always will be serving. Some communities may want to consider
setting a maximum limit on the number of consecutive terms that any person can serve,
to prevent the commission from becoming too closely associated with any one
individual.
Each jurisdiction should consider whether to require professional qualifications for
some, or all, members of the review body. Qualifications are important from both a legal
and a practical standpoint. There currently are different approaches in use throughout
the state. Some communities require that a few (e.g., Napa) or all (e.g., Fresno)
members be trained in history, architecture, archaeology, or a related field, in order to
ensure that preservation decisions benefit from professional expertise. Other
communities require no such qualifications and'simply ask that members express an
interest in preservation in order to serve.
There are merits to both approaches. A broadly based membership can protect the
ordinance and its administration from a claim of arbitrariness and can help distinguish
preservation restrictions from other aesthetic controls that are sometimes invalidated by
courts. Some observers argue that the overall quality of preservation anti design review
in the community suffers if commission members do not have solid credentials and the
experience necessary to carry out their responsibilities. There is value in having a mix of
backgrounds on a preservation commission.
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 12
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
Requiring professional qualifications ensures that members have the necessary
technical expertise to review adequately matters before the preservation commission.
Requiring professional qualifications for at least some members also is consistent with
the national requirements for cities participating in the Certified Local Government
(CLG) program, which provides a source of grant money for preservation programs in
participating communities. The California CLG procedures encourage local
governments to have at least two professionally qualified persons. A local government
in California may be certified without the minimum number or types of disciplines
established if it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of that state that it has made a
reasonable effort to fill those positions, or that some alternative composition of the
commission best meets the needs of the protection of historic properties in the local
community. The CLG guidelines outline professional qualifications in a handful of areas,
including history, architectural history, archaeology, and architecture. For each
discipline, the guidelines require a minimum level of education and professional
experience, which are codified in the Code of Federal Regulations (36 C.F.R. 61). In
addition to the disciplines identified in the CLG guidelines, it also is useful to have
planners and landscape architects on a local preservation commission.
Some communities believe that requiring qualifications may deprive the review body of
valuable common-sense perspectives from citizens not professionally involved in
preservation -related fields, and also might prevent service by individuals who are well-
qualified though not professionally trained. To some, "qualifications" equal bias, and
thus decisions made by commissioners with qualifications may carry less weight with
the legislative body, because they are perceived to be less representative of the whole
community.
In an attempt to reach a middle ground between these two philosophies, many
communities have adopted a balanced system made up of both professionally qualified
members and also citizens -at -large who bring a broader perspective of community
affairs. In such jurisdictions, only some (e.g., four out of seven) commission members
are required to meet professional qualifications standards, in order to bring expertise in
urban design and preservation to the commission. The Alameda, California, approach is
typical:
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 13
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
�uncil rna -fill any, such position by appointing persons qualified "under
ibsectons (a), (b)c),_or�(d) s
Around the country, numerous courts have examined the composition of the
preservation review body in the context of challenges to local ordinances. While none
have held that the particular composition of a review body is fatal to the validity of a
historic preservation ordinance, these courts nevertheless have noted that
representation by a range of disciplines and interests helps refute any claim that the
actions of the review body are arbitrary. For example, in a famous case involving a
challenge to the New Orleans preservation ordinance, the court noted that the
ordinance "curbed the possibility for abuse by the Commission... by specifying the
composition of that body and its manner of selection."$ Similarly, the Colorado
Supreme Court, in a case from Georgetown, Colorado, acknowledged the importance of
a commission's expertise in helping to prevent arbitrary action.9 These cases indicate
that careful wording can strengthen the legal case for an ordinance by specifying a
knowledgeable, representative membership for a local preservation commission.
Settling on the composition of a local commission is sometimes a difficult undertaking in
small communities that simply do not have a large cadre of professionals with relevant
experience. There may be only one or two architects in the area, and they may be
hesitant to serve if volunteering means foregoing preservation or restoration projects
that might come before the commission. The solution is not an easy one. State historic
preservation offices can be of great assistance by making available an architect to "ride
circuit," rendering expert advice to key members of small preservation commissions
(though of course staffing such a position requires a high commitment of resources by
the state.)
In summary, across California, historical review boards and preservation commissions
represent a wide diversity of sizes, generally five to fifteen members, and skills, such as
varying degrees of experience in preservation -related fields. In addition to the Alameda
language included above, several excerpts from adopted California preservation
ordinances are included below to illustrate the range of approaches used in the state
today. They range from the Berkeley ordinance, which simply specifies a number of
commission members and contains no detail on professional qualifications; to the
Colton ordinance, which identifies a general range of disciplines from which all
commission members should be drawn; to Santa Monica, which sets strict qualifications
for some but not all seats on the local commission. The Los Gatos ordinance requires a
mixture of lay members and planning commission members on its preservation
commission; this common approach ensures a linkage between preservation and other
planning and land -use activities in the community.
6 Alameda, California, Municipal Code, Title II, Article 3, Sec. 332.
7 See, Citizens for Responsible Development v. City of West Hollywood, 39 Cal.AppAth 490, 494 n. 1, 45
Cal.Rptr.2d 917 (Cal. App. 1995) (noting the availability of experts within the commission as the court
upheld the preservation commission's determination that certain structures were not of historic
significance).
8 Maher v. City of New Orleans, 516 F.2d 1051, 1062 (5t' Cir. 1975).
9 South of Second Assoc. v. Georgetown, 580 P.2d 807, 808-09 n.1 (Colo. 1978).
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 14
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 15
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
SCOPE OF POWERS
Just as important as who sits on the review body is what authority that body has to
regulate building and land -use activities. Review bodies in various communities across
California have wide-ranging responsibilities, including, but not limited to, the following:
• Survey and identification of historically and architecturally significant structures
and areas;
• Establishment of standards and procedures for designation of historical
resources;
• Designation of historical resources;
• Review of applications for alteration, construction, or demolition of historical
resources and all structures within historic districts;
• Coordination and supervision of educational activities;
• Purchase or sale of property;
• Acceptance of easements and other less -than -fee -simple donations of property;
• Enforcement of ongoing maintenance requirements for historical resources,
Acceptance of preservation funds from various sources, and
• Review of zoning amendments and comprehensive plans relating to historic
preservation.
The most important powers that can be vested in a preservation commission have all
been held valid under the U.S. Constitution by various courts: the power to deny an
application to demolish or alter historical resources; to regulate new construction or
development in the vicinity of a historical resource or historic district; and to impose
affirmative maintenance requirements on historical resource owners. Of course, courts
retain the authority to review how such powers are exercised in individual cases, but, in
legal parlance, such provisions are valid on their face. Thus, there is wide latitude
available in granting powers to a preservation commission in an ordinance, keeping in
mind appropriate federal and state constitutional requirements.
Just as there is no one correct way to empanel an effective review body, there is no
commonly accepted set of responsibilities for that body. There are, however, common
elements found in most ordinances. The City of Glendale's historic preservation
ordinance contains a representative list of express authorities (See excerpt below.).
A preservation commission is commonly given the power to investigate and recognize
as -yet unprotected historical resources within the locality through various mechanisms,
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 16
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
such as preparation of historic resources surveys. Some communities establish a list of
"structures of merit.s10 The Eureka, California, ordinance also provides several
examples of other proactive powers that may given to a preservation commission
(See excerpt below.).
As is true with other provisions of a preservation ordinance, practical considerations, as
much as legal requirements, will shape the scope of powers granted to a commission. If
a community is concerned primarily with exterior facades of historical resources, then it
makes little sense to add to the administrative burden by asserting control over interior
changes. Similarly, in a town with a volunteer preservation commission able to meet
only once a month, the commission may be overwhelmed if it must review every
application for a building permit within a historic area. In such instances, it may be
advisable to exempt certain changes or allow the local building official or planning staff
to handle applications for "minor alterations" as defined by the commission (See the
discussion below under "Section 5: Procedures and Criteria for Actions Subject to
Review: Allowing Staff -Level Reviews.").
On the other hand, in situations where any alteration in the general vicinity may be
detrimental, the commission may need to control not only all external alterations to
historical resources (even in the rear of a building) but also alterations to neighboring
structures that are not of landmark quality, 11 and even interiors that are visible to the
public. The City of Berkeley, for example, grants its preservation commission the power
to condition the designation of a publicly owned historical resource upon the ability to
review "proposed changes in major interior architectural features." 12 In the City of
Davis, the Historical Resources Management Commission is empowered to provide
advice on landscaping at the sites of historical resources. 13
Probably the most crucial consideration in drafting the powers of a preservation
commission is that the review body be given adequate power to protect historical
resources. This will in many cases require that it have the power to forbid demolition or
alteration, not just delay -it, even though such power may be exercised infrequently.
rAI IFARNIA CADF- FX[ FRP-TS'
rs and Duties.
10 See e.g., Berkeley, California, Code of Ordinances, § 3.24.070(A) ("the commission may establish and
maintain a list of structures, site and areas deemed deserving of official recognition, although not yet
designated...").
11 See, Glendale, California, Code of Ordinances, § 2.76.100(M) (commission may render a decision on
any design review application "affecting" designated historical resources).
12 Berkeley, California, Code of Ordinances, § 3.24.100(B)(1).
13 Davis, California, Code of Ordinances, § 40.23.050(J).
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 17
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Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 18
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Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 19
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
FINAL REVIEW AUTHORITY
Another important issue closely related to the scope of the reviewing body's power is
the question of where final authority should rest for designating structures and reviewing
permit applications. In many communities, final decision-making authority rests with the
preservation review body, while in other jurisdictions that body makes a
recommendation to a planning commission or city council, which makes the final
decision. Under California's broad enabling authority, local governments have wide
leeway in where they place final decision-making authority, and the choices may be
difficult.
One approach, perhaps the least attractive to preservationists, is to have the
local law grant the preservation commission advisory authority only regarding
designations and permit reviews, and vest no absolute power to deny demolition
permits in either the preservation commission or the legislative body. The City of
Burbank, California, has adopted this approach, which, while providing for close
political control over preservation and limiting restrictions on owners who may -
want to demolish their historical resources, is not as aggressive in protecting
historical resources as some preservationists might like.
• -A second approach is to split authority between the preservation commission and
the local legislative body. For example, in both the California cities of Alameda
and Davis, the preservation commission makes decisions on permit reviews
(though its decisions can be overridden by appealing to the local legislative
body). The legislative body makes decisions on designations (with appeal to the
courts), with only advisory input from the preservation commission. This model,
more acceptable to preservationists because of the balance it strikes among
conservation goals, property rights, and political control, is common throughout
the country and has been upheld regularly by the courts. 14
Another option is to vest final review authority over designations and permit
reviews with the preservation commission, with appeal to the city council or to the
courts. From a preservation point of view, this approach is most attractive
because, to a certain extent, it removes preservation from the political arena and
14 See, e.g., City of New Orleans v. Pergament, 198 La. 852, 5 So.2d 129 (1941); Maher v. City of New
Orleans, 516 F.2d 1051 (5"' Cir. 1975); 900 G Street Associates v. D.C. Department of Housing and
Community Development, 430 A.2d 1387 (D.C. App. 1981); and Friends of Sierra Madre v. City of Sierra
Madre, 25 Cale 165,172 n. 3,105 Cal.Rptr.2d 214,19 P.3d 567 (Cal. 2001) (Upholding Sierra Madre
Ordinance No. 1036).
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 20
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
allows local commissions to forbid demolition according to prescribed standards
and procedures. Courts also have upheld uniformly this type of ordinance around
the country. In California, the cities of Berkeley and Eureka have adopted this
approach.
Finally, some communities might assign some preservation -related
responsibilities to other entities altogether, such as a design review commission.
For example, in Pasadena, California, the Cultural Heritage Commission (CHC)
has responsibility for most preservation review in the city, but the Design Review
Commission (DRC) handles design review in the downtown preservation district.
Also, for city -owned properties, the CHC serves in an advisory capacity to the
DRC.
If other entities exist besides the preservation commission, such as a design review
body, then the community should think carefully about the relationship between the
multiple entities and ensure that there are no duplicative reviews that may unnecessarily
add time and costs to the development review process. The jurisdiction of each entity
should be carefully distinguished from the other entities (e.g., by geography or by type
of project). The sequence of decision-making should be coordinated to prevent
contradictory decisions. In California, local governments increasingly are moving toward
fewer boards, rather than more, to avoid these types of potential complications.
If strong preservation controls are to be exercised by the preservation commission, then
local elected officials almost inevitably will want final review authority over designations
and permit applications to rest with the local legislative body, the mayor, or with a
planning commission or similar body that has a broader view of community
development. Preservationists may have to choose between having stronger controls
exercised by a less sympathetic body or weaker controls vested in a friendly
preservation commission. There are pros and cons to either approach. If the local
planning commission or zoning board is put in charge of making final decisions, then
preservationists may find that it is more difficult to get historical resources listed or that
the review body occasionally allows demolition or site development that a more
preservation -oriented body might reject. Yet the occasional reversal on appeal to
another board may be worthwhile to preservation advocates if the alternative is vesting
limited powers perhaps authority only to delay demolitions rather than veto them — in a
preservation commission.
In most instances, a good case can be made for establishing final review authority in a
separate preservation commission with specific expertise and the time to devote to
preservation programs. Moreover, as discussed earlier, for a local government to qualify
for certain federal historic preservation programs and funding and to assert authority
over local National Register nominations, the community must establish a preservation
commission with adequate authority to designate historic districts, review proposals for
alteration within a district, and protect significant structures.
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 21
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
In terms of vesting a preservation commission with final review authority, there are
practical aspects to keep in mind as well. Is there sufficient expertise, or are there
enough willing citizens available in the community to establish yet another volunteer
commission, particularly in smaller towns? If an existing body, such as the planning
commission, is given authority over historical resources, will these added duties
overburden it? Who will do staff work for the review body? Would staff from a planning
or zoning commission be sympathetic to preservation goals? Should the review body
concern itself only with major alterations or demolitions, or is greater control warranted?
DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY AND PERSONAL INTERESTS
People are often appointed to preservation commissions because they have some
special expertise (i.e., architectural training, real estate experience, or legal knowledge)
that should be helpful to the commission in making decisions. But the use of this
expertise, and the past affiliations that are often part of such expertise, raise several
interesting legal issues to which commissioners should be sensitive.
Occasionally, members of the preservation commission will have a pecuniary or
personal interest in a case before the commission. What if a commissioner has a direct
pecuniary interest in a case, perhaps through a partnership with the developer applying
for a demolition permit? Almost universally, the commissioner should disqualify himself
or herself in such situations. But that is the easy case.
What about cases in which the interest is only indirect — for example, when a
commissioner owns nearby property that might appreciate in value if a big, new high-
rise office building is allowed in a historic area? That question is a difficult one. In
several zoning cases around the country, courts have invalidated zoning decisions
because of the possibility of a conflict of interest. 15 Commissioners should be very
careful to disclose any potential direct or indirect gain or loss that could flow from a
commission decision.
Where a potential conflict of interest may be perceived but the commissioner has no
tangible interest at stake, disclosure and affirmation of unbiased decision-making is still
important. What if a commissioner, because of a past affiliation — say, the presidency of
a local private preservation advocacy group — is perceived to have an inherent bias
against, or for, a particular proposal? Should that person be disqualified? Generally not,
unless the commissioner cannot keep an open mind and is not willing to consider
evidence supporting a contrary position and to make a finding on the record presented.
Present activity with local groups actively supporting or opposing a particular case
15 For an example, see Buell v. City of Bremerton, 495 P.2d 1358 (Wash. 1972), striking down a local
zoning decision because the chairman's property might increase in value as a result of the zoning. A
recent California case involved the City of Torrance, where several council members had received
campaign contributions from an opponent of a proposed conditional use permit before the board;
Breakzone Billiards v. City of Torrance, 97 Cal.Rptr.2d 467,477 (the court held that recusal by the council
members was not required because each had stated their decision would not be affected by the
contribution and the court found no indication that the decision -maker's impartiality was tainted).
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 22
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14
before the commission will raise more questions and potential challenges to the
commissioner's ability to vote in an unbiased manner; therefore disqualification or
recusal may be appropriate in cases of active affiliation with a party in interest.
A related, common disclosure issue is whether commissioners can base decisions on
personal knowledge or expertise. For example, if an architect knows from long years of
study and personal experience that a proposed development in a historic district is not
compatible with the character of the district and that alternative designs are possible,
can such knowledge form the basis for a negative decision? Similarly, can a
commissioner make a personal visit to a historical resource that an owner wants to
demolish and base his decision on impressions from that visit? Generally, the answer to
both of these questions is "yes." A decision can be based on personal knowledge and
expertise, provided that knowledge is noted in the record. 16
16 For a sampling of cases in support of this position, see Ohio Bell Telephone Co. v. Public Utilities
Commission, 301 U.S. 292 (1937); and Russo v. Stevens, 7 App. Div. 2d 575,184 N.Y.S.2d 981 (1959).
Drafting Historic Preservation Ordinances 23
OHP Technical Assistance Bulletin #14