1954 JAN 27 CC MINV '754
E1 Segundo, California
January 27, 1954
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of E1 Segundo,
California, was held in the Council Chamber of the City Hall of said City
on the above date, having been called to order at 7 :00 o'clock P. M. by
William R. Selby, Mayor.
ROLL CALL
Councilmen Present: Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Councilmen Absent: Baker.
READING OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
The minutes of the regular meeting held on the 20th day of January,
1954, having been read, and no errors or omissions having been noted, it
was moved by Councilman Gordon, seconded by Councilman Swanson, the minutes
of said meeting be approved as recorded. Carried.
SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
Mayor Selby announced that this was the time and place heretofore
fixed for the continued public hearing under the provisions of the Zoning
Ordinance of the City of El Segundo, on the application of North American
Aircraft, Inc. for approval of unclassified use in an M -2 zone of a parcel
of land situated in Section 7, T3S, R14W, S.B.B. & M., bounded on the east
by Douglas Street, on the west by Duley Road, on the north by Mariposa Avenue,
and extending southerly therefrom a distance of 1531 feet, to be used for pro -
posed construction of.a wind tunnel for the research and development of air-
planes, in the City of E1 Segundo.
The Mayor then stated that the sound engineer, to whom had been referred
for investigation and report a certain noise design criterion chart, hereto-
fore filed by North American Aircraft, Inc., had not as yet had time to com-
plete such report, and he recommended the hearing be continued for another
week.
The Council concurring in such recommendation, it was moved by Council-
man Peterson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, that the hearing on the above
mentioned application of North American Aircraft, Inc. be continued until the
hour of 7 :00 o'clock P. M. at the next regular meeting of the City Council, to
be held February 3rd, 1954. Carried.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
Written communications, received,from the persons, firms or corporations,
he ein f er ed were read to the C il.an were disposed of in the manner
inrdlca€e�d, fo owing reference to eac�ii�reinater.
T. B. DeBERRY, CHIEF OF POLICE, dated January 27, 1954, advising that
North American Aircraft, Inc. has requested permission to place a 1 /21' con-
duit from its property to the center of Douglas Street at a point approxi-
mately 200 -feet south of Imperial Highway for the purpose of installing a
portable traffic signal at this location. The communication further stated
that some type of traffic control should be maintained at said location, and
said Chief of Police recommended'the application of North American Aviation,
Inc..be approved.
Public Safety Commissioner Swanson stated he had made an investigation
of the matter and said request also had his approval.
It was thereupon moved by Councilman Peterson, seconded by Councilman
Swanson, the following resolution be adopted:
-1-
s
WHEREAS, there has been presented to the City Council at
this meeting, a communication in words and figures as follows:
"City of El Segundo
INTER -DEPARTMENTAL CORRESPONDENCE
Date January 27, 1954
To: Honorable City Council
From: Chief of Police
Subject: Traffic Control
North American Aviation, Inc., has requested permission
to run a half -inch conduit from their property to the center
of Douglas Street at a point approximately 200 ft. south of
Imperial Highway, and also permission to install a portable
traffic signal at this location.
The Company maintains a crossing at this location which
carries a heavy load of traffic, pedestrians, trams, small
trucks, etc., between two of the principal segments of their
plant. A signal light of this type has proven helpful in
reducing the hazard of accidents and expediting the flow of
street traffic at other large industrial plants in this area.
This connection can best be made by the removal of a
1 -inch strip of paving to allow for the installation of the
conduit just beneath the surface of the street. They propose
to install an all - weather receptacle flush with the street
level so as to present no possible hazard to moving traffic
when signal is not in use. If and when the signal is no
longer used, they will remove the conduit and replace the
pavement.
It is, necessary to have some type of traffic'control at
this location and it would be difficult to construct a tunnel,
due to the physical surroundings. Therefore, I feel that this
improvement will greatly facilitate the movement of plant
traffic, as well as traffic on Douglas Street.
TBD :mcb";
and
Very truly yours,
/s/ T. B. DeBerry
T. B. DeBERRY,
Chief of Police
WHEREAS, the Chief of Police and the Public Safety Commissioner
have recommended that the permit requested in said above quoted com-
munication be granted;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA,.AS FOLLOWS:
'First: That said communication. be received and placed on file
in the office of the City Clerk.
Second: That North American Aviation, Inc. is hereby granted
permission to place 1/211 conduit from its westerly property line
to the center of Douglas Street at a point approximately 200 -feet
south of Imperial Highway, and to install a portable traffic signal
-2-
V 755
V '756
at this location, all of such installations at the location,
in the manner and of the nature as contemplated in said above
quoted communication, upon and subject to the following condi-
tions:
(a) That all costs incident to the placement, maintenance,
removal and restoration of street surface must be borne
by the Permittee and must be made to the satisfaction
of the Street Superintendent of the City of E1 Segundo.
(b) That the traffic signal must be placed so as not to
constitute undue hazard to traffic and must be main-
tained at all times to the satisfaction of the Chief
of Police of the City of E1 Segundo.
(c) That the permission and authority herein granted shall
be subject to revocation by the City Council of the City
of E1 Segundo at any time, in its discretion, upon
forty -eight hours written notice to the Permittee.
Third: That this permit shall not become effective unless and
until the Permittee shall have signed one copy of this permit, agree-
ing to the conditions and provisions therein contained, and shall
have filed such signed copy with the City Clerk of the City of El
Segundo.
On roll call, the foregoing resolution was adopted by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
MRS. EARL A. MOLES, dated January 26, 1954, being application for a
permit to move a two - bedroom frame and stucco dwelling and garage from their
present location at 832 Center Street, E1 Segundo, to a new location at 637
West Acacia Avenue, in said City.
The Building Inspector had noted on said application that the buildings
will conform to building ordinances of the City of E1 Segundo and that he
would recommend the permit applied for be granted subject to the following
conditions: (1) That sidewalks be constructed on said premises; (2) That
exterior paint shall be applied to said dwelling and garage; (3) That the
completion of removal and placement of said buildings on foundations, the
construction of sidewalks, and the application of exterior paint to said
buildings shall be completed within 120 days; and (4) That a Faithful
Performance Bond in amount of $19000.00 shall be filed with the City Clerk
to insure the fulfillment of the required conditions.
Moved by Councilman Swanson, seconded by Councilman Peterson, the fol-
lowing resolution be adopted:
RESOLVED, that Mrs. Earl A. Moles be and she is hereby granted
a permit to move a two - bedroom frame and stucco dwelling and garage
from their present location at 832 Center Street, E1 Segundo, to
the site of the permanent location thereof at 637 West Acacia Avenue,
in said City, such permit being granted subject to the following con-
ditions:
1. That the applicant, before moving said structure, must post
a Faithful Performance Bond in amount of $1,000.00 with a
surety satisfactory to the Mayor and in form approved by the
- City Attorney, conditioned that each, all and every one of
the improvements hereinafter indicated shall be made within
a period of 120 days from date of the bond, to wit:
-3-
v
- (a) That sidewalks shall be constructed on said premises.
(b) That exterior paint shall be applied to the exteriors
of said dwelling house and garage.
(c) That the structures must be set down complete in place
on permanent foundations and shall be made to conform
in all respects to the requirements of the Building,
Plumbing and Electrical Codes of the City of El Segundo,
and to the satisfaction of the Building Inspector of the
City of E1 Segundo.
2. That before such removal shall take place, permittee shall pay
to the City of E1 Segundo the requisite fees, make the necessary
deposits and file all forms and notices required under the pro-
visions of the ordinance of the City relating to moving of
structures.
3. That said buildings shall be moved on dollies, or other equip-
ment satisfactory to the Street Superintendent of the City of
E1 Segundo.
4. That said buildings shall be moved from their present location
at an hour and on a date satisfactory to the Chief of Police
of the City of E1 Segundo, and along a route satisfactory to
the Street Superintendent of the City of E1 Segundo.
5. That the Police Department of the City of E1 Segundo shall be
notified at least thirty minutes in advance of the start of
such removal operations, so that police escort may be provided
therefor, if necessary.
.60 That such removal and all operations related thereto shall be
prosecuted and completed to the satisfaction of the Street
Superintendent and the Chief,of Police of the City of El
Segundo.
7. That this permit shall not become effective unless and until
the permittee shall have endorsed his approval of and agreement
to the terms and conditions above set forth, upon a copy of
this resolution and shall have filed the same in the office of
the City Clerk.
On roll call, the foregoing resolution was adopted by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION, dated 1/22/54, being notice of application
of John B. Murphy, Jr. and Paul Senjanovich, dba Rose Bowl Cafe and Bowling
Alleys, 135 West Grand Avenue, E1 Segundo, for an On Sale Beer license.
Ordered filed.
STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION, dated 1/21/54, being notice of applica-
tion of E1 Segundo Junior Chamber of Commerce, 142 Richmond Street, El
Segundo, for.an On Sale General licpnse...Orciered filed.
CITY OF SANTA ROSA, dated January 6, 1954, being notice of the holding
in said City of the Sixth Annual California Recreation Conference, February
14 to 17, 1954.
It appearing that Councilman Baker, the City Councilts representative
on the Recreation Commission, will be unable to attend said Conference,
Councilman Gordon offered to substitute for him.
-4-
757
V '758
It was thereupon moved by Councilman Swanson, seconded by Council-
man Peterson, the following resolution be adopted:
RESOLVED, that Councilman George E. Gordon, Jr. be and
he is hereby granted permission to attend the Sixth Annual
California Recreation Conference to be held in the City of
Santa Rosa, California, February 14th to 17th, 1954; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that said official be and he is
hereby further authorized to present his demand for his actual
and necessary expenses in connection with his attendance at
said meeting, such demand to be audited and approved in the
usual manner before payment.
-On roll call, the foregoing resolution was adopted by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, being its decision
No. 49565 in Case No. 5495, entitled: "Investigation on the Commission's
own motion to establish a list of grade crossings of railroads and city,
county, or city and county highways urgently in need of improved protection,
and to determine the nature of needed improved protection at such crossings.'f
Ordered filed.
JAMES JOHN MIKA, dated January 26, 1954; and
RUTH EVELYN WELL, dated January 20, 1954, each being an application for
employment by the City of E1 Segundo. Ordered filed.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Kenneth Ball, residing at 838 Penn Street, addressed the Council,
stating he represented Mr. Frank L. West, a property owner in the 800 block
of Penn Street, and advised the Council he had filed with the City Clerk a
certain document signed by himself and fourteen other property owners in
the 800 block of Penn Street, which document requested that said property
owners be given certain information as to problems existing on said street
due to storm water and erosion.
The City Clerk thereupon read to the Council the communication pre-
sented by Mr. Ball, which communication reads in full as follows:
"January 26, 1954
"TO: HIS HONOR, THE MAYOR, AND CITY COUNCILMEN
We, the property owners in the 800 block on Penn Street would like
some answers to the problems created by the erection of the hill
by Marlow Burns Development Co.
Since no problem existed prior to the erection of the hill and
since the city engineer and the city planning commission must
have approved the hill, the problems are yours to solve.
1. It is our understanding that an agreement in writing was
made between Marlow Burns and the city of E1 Segundo that the
top of the hill would slope in such a manner as to cause the
natural drainage to be on McCarthy Court.
2. We, furthermore understand that the home owners on the west
side of McCarthy Court can not alter their property in any manner
what -so --ever to cause the drainage to run off the back of their
lot on to Penn Street.
=5=
V 759
3. We also understand that the said bank was to be planted
with wild oats and ice plant in suffecient amounts in order
to keep the hill from sliding down into the yards below.
This obviously has not been taken care of satisfactorily
since a survey will show you that much of the hill may now
be found in the yards of the houses on the east side of Penn
Street.
4. We are all of the opinion that the drainage ditch as in-
stalled by Marlow Burns is not adequate and apparently it was
a great mistake on the part of the city engineer to approve the
ditch as being suitable to handle the amount of drainage that we
have had since the hill was built.
5. We are wondering, also, how the so called drainage ditch is
to be maintained behind the houses on Penn Street since a house
was allowed to be built at 834A Penn on a city easement.
6. The inadequate drainage system that was approved by the city
of E1 Segundo has caused flooded conditions in the yards at 837,
841 and 845 Penn Street.
7. Two years ago we were told that when Penn Street was flooded
it was necessary to open the storm drain and turn the water to
the sewer. You told us that this was not legel and was only used
as an emergency measure and yet, knowing well that the drain could
not handle the normal water from Sheldon, Walnut, Sycamore, and
Maple, will you tell us why you added the burden of the water from
McCarthy Court and now the new Imperiel School?
It is our understanding that the city council is suppose to act in
the interest of the residents of our city so will you please give
us satisfactory answers to the above questions and tell us what
action you intend to take to correct these conditions.
/s/
Kenneth H. Ball, Apartment Manager
for
West Apts.
838
Penn
/s/
Irvin W. & Tessa G. Fleming
/s/
Earl & Ritz Van Fleet
834A Penn St.
/s/
Mr. & Mrs. Frank Springer
840
Penn St.
/s/
Arthur Johnson
832
Penn St.
_ /s/
Florence E. Johnson
832
Penn St.
/s/
Robert L. Dearth
837
Penn St.
. /s/
Florean Dearth
837
Penn St.
/s/
R. B. Hamilton
845
Penn
/s/
Jack L. Thornton
831
Penn St.
/s/
Martha S. Thornton
831
Penn St.
/s/
Anna Kenney
860
Penn St.
- /s/
A. J. Smith
823
Penn St.
/s/
Mrs. Helen Smith
823
Penn St.
/s/
Stephen B. Doss
849
Penn St.
/s/
Doris M. Clark
816
Penn St.
/s/
Herbert T. Clark
/s/
Morton E. Coats
818
Penn St.
/s/
Beryl E. Coats
818
Penn St.
/s/
Harry 0. Jones
817
Penn.St.
/s/
Mrs. Alice M. Jones
817
Penn Str.tt,
The Mayor referred the matter to Director of Public Works Short for
answer, and Mr. Short stated he would answer each question in the order in
which it appeared on the documents and thereupon stated as follows:
Second paragraph (unnumbered): ttThe statement that no problem existed
prior to erection of the hill may possibly be true, but at that time there
—6—
V '760
was no development in the area easterly of Penn Street and the ground
all sloped to the low -lying grounds on Penn Street. If the Engineering
Department and the Planning Commission had approved the original plans
presented by the subdivider, which held to the original contour of the
ground, the problem would have been much more serious in that it would
have allowed all run -off to go to Penn Street."
1. "There was no agreement in writing between the City of E1 Segundo
and Marlow Burns Company, the only agreement being in the form of maps and
plans which the City approved and to which the subdivider conformed. At
the time the subdivision was completed and accepted, such plans provided
that all storm water easterly of Penn Street would drain to McCarthy Court
and the only area which would drain westerly to Penn Street was the embank-
ment itself.??
2. "This is a legal question but betore referring it to the City
Attorney it would be my observation that physically anyone can do anything
to his own property but when he changes contours and grades, he must accept
responsibility for any damage caused by such change. The trouble encountered
during the recent storm was due entirely to the fact that some property owners
on McCarthy Court diverted storm water over the bank to Penn Street and did
not allow it to flow in accordance with the plan submitted by the subdivider."
City Attorney Woodworth then stated that, in his opinion, the parties
damaged might join in an action for an injunction to restrain and also to
collect damages from those parties responsible. The development was in-
tended to take care of its own drainage and except for interference with
the plans for self- contained drainage, such plans should have worked very
well.
Mr. Short continued:
3. "I made a personal inspection of the area under discussion today
and find that south of the inlet to the drain line which was constructed
from subject ditch to Penn Street, the ice plant planted some time ago is
fairly well rooted. North of that inlet the ice plant is, for all practical
purposes, non - existent and the bank is comparatively bare. I was present
when the bank was inspected upon completion of the subdivision and know for
a fact that grass, barley and ice plant were planted over the entire slope
area. I made a cursory inspection of the site from tima.to time in the interim,
and noticed that children have been allowed to climb and play upon the side of
the embankment and their actions undoubtedly were detrimental to the propaga-
tion of the ice plant. It is manifestly impossible for the City to police this
area at all times.??
4. "As I explained previously, the plan was for all of the water to
be diverted to McCarthy Court and the only water which would flow into the
ditch and into pipe subsequently constructed at City expense, would be water
that ran off of the slope area only. It is still my opinion, and substan-
tiated by engineering calculations, that the drainage ditch and the drain
Line are sufficient to carry that amount of drainage, but obviously are not
sufficient to carry the amount of water diverted into it by private property
owners living on the westerly side of McCarthy Court. If owners of new homes
in that area had permitted original plans to remain operative, in my opinion,
the ditch and line would have carried the drainage water.??
5. "This house is not built in anyway to obstruct the drainage ditch
which runs northerly and southerly along the toe of the embankment slope.
The drainage ditch ends in a catch basin and the overflow goes into cast iron
pipe underneath the house and is carried into Penn Street."
6. "These homes, as you all know and as I feel the Council does not know,
are located on the westerly side of Penn Street. They were built exceedingly
-7-
V '761
low, and the reference to inadequate drainage system causing flooding
conditions is, I believe, incorrect. I go back to my original state-
ment that if Marlow Burns Company, or any others, had been permitted
to construct homes on the natural contour of the ground, flood condi-
tions at these particular places would have been much more severe than
they were in the last rain. While there may be and probably are flood
conditions at these particular places under conditions which obtained re-
cently, the City has made every effort to keep.such damage to an absolute minimum."
7.: "There is a catch basin at the bottom of Penn Street connected to
the sewer which is open at all times, but because the sanitary sewer system
is designed to carry sewage and because storm waters are so much greater in
volume than that for which the sewer was designed to carry or can carry, the
sewer system cannot carry it all away, consequently there are flood condi-
tions until the water can be taken care of by the sewer system. The City
has done even.-thing it can to keep the drainage in McCarthy Court. Mr. Morgan,
the Sanitary Service Supervisor for the City, informed me several weeks ago
that he had observed large quantities of water from the Imperial School flow-
ing down Walnut Avenue and into Penn Street. As you are aware, the school and
the City are two distinct entities. At the time the school was being erected,
I requested the architect to so grade the school grounds so that such grounds
might take - maximum advantage of the sump. He assured me this would be done,
but when the Imperial School was completed I observed that drainage from the
school came down to Penn Street. I made a special trip from San Diego to
attend a School Board meeting and discussed the problem with said Board, and
asked it to take action to correct the situation, and I have received assur-
ance that the School Board will immediately install adequate drainage facili-
ties to divert water from the Imperial School site to the sump area and reduce
to an absolute minimum the run -off to Walnut Avenue and onto Penn Street."
Mr. Kenneth Ball, 838 Penn Street, stated there was a house being con-
- structed in the rear of 840 Penn Street and the workmen had dug a deep cut
out of the bank; that he observed City forces had some time ago cleaned out
the drain and piled the sand removed therefrom on private property on Penn
Street. He agreed with Mr. Short's remarks that children had played on the
embankment and had caused damage to the planting thereon.
Mrs. Frank Springer, residing at 840 Penn Street, stated that City
forces had recently removed dirt from the drain in the rear of her property
and had piled the sand up against her rear yard fence and she was fearful
that unless same was removed, the fence might break under the load.
Mr. Short stated he had observed dirt had been piled adjacent to the
ditch on the property in question, and that he would instruct the Street De-
partment to remove same from the west side of the ditch and place it back on
the east side from which it originally came.
Discussion was then had as to what action might be taken by all con-
cerned, and the City Attorney stated as follows:
"It is my understanding, from your report, that if the embankment was
restored to the same condition as when the tract was completed, that then
the properties on Penn Street would receive a minimum amount of water as
compared with what they receive at this time. The only suggestion I can
make is this -- the subdivider should be interviewed, the neighbors who may
have.cut the embankment should be interviewed, and if the interviews are not
satisfactory for restoration of the embankment as it existed and in such
manner as to' restrain the storm waters from McCarthy'Court, and since the
City does have drainage which was rendered useless because of sand being
washed down from the embankment, it seems to me that the City has a cause
for action along with the people. Manifestly, the City cannot file suit
for private property owners, but the City does have the right to protect
its own installation . . . . .'t
Councilman Peterson stated that, in his opinion, the first move would
-8-
V '762
be to contact Marlow Burns Company, as he is of the opinion that said
Company still ohms the property where said trench was dug; also ice
plant might be replanted northerly of the drain where no ice plant
presently exists.
Further discussion was entered into, following which the Mayor
stated two things should be done immediately. First, the City should
remove sand and dirt from the west side of the ditch where it was placed
by the City and put it back where it originally came from. Second, that
an investigation should be made between Marlow Burns Company and the per-
sons living on McCarthy Court immediately easterly of Penn Street, to see
if they will cooperate and refrain from digging ditches, and the City might
plant more ice plant in an endeavor to alleviate the condition.
Mr. Paul, residing at the northwest corner of Center Street and Acacia
Avenue, inquired whether or not ice plant would meet requirements to hold
the banks, and Mr. Short replied that, in his opinion, if the ice plant is
allowed to grow, then this particular embankment would cause no trouble to
anyone.
Mr. Paul then stated that he and his neighbors were having considerable
trouble due to storm water accumulating in that vicinity from higher ground;
that he realizes the City is not responsible for their hardships inasmuch as
they bought the property, but that he and his neighbors are willing to sacri-
fice some of their ground for the purpose of constructing a drain; that he has
prepared plans for such a drain and, if approved by the City Engineering De-
partment, he and his neighbors will pay for "Gunitingtl the sump area and he
requested the Engineering Department to inspect such plans and give him an
estimate of the cost of such "Gunitingtl, which Mr. Short stated would be done.
A Mrs. Miller, who did not give her address, then inquired why a large
company like the Marlow Burns Company was not required to put in adequate
drainage when a subdivision is improved. Mr. Short stated that prior to
approval of the subdivision plans by the City Council, the County Flood
Control District had inspected the plans of Marlow Burns Company for the
subdivision and had assured the Council that the drainage plans were ade-
quate, and accordingly the Council had acted in good faith in approving
same.
Mr. Theodore Tomaszewski, 903 Lomita Street, representing home owners
on the west side of Lomita Street easterly of McCarthy Court, inquired what
provisions were originally made for drainage in the subdivision and if the
drainage plans were altered in any way by the subdivider, who might be
responsible.
M&,yor Selby stated he could not answer this question as to whether the
plans for drainage were altered or whether anyone could answer such question.
Director of Public Works Short stated the City, in making inspection of
the subdivision, was interested in public improvements only, and also that
the drainage in the subdivision should be restrained entirely within the sub-
division.
Mr. Robert Allen, 915 Lomita Street, addressed the Council respecting
the matter of controlling water on his own property and stated that he under -
stands the City of Los Angeles had adopted an ordinance in October, 1953,
which places control of any hillside or cut and fill under the Los Angeles
Building and Safety Department, and the City Attorney agreed to obtain a
copy of said ordinance for study.
Mr. Earl Van Fleet, residing at 834A Penn Street, then discussed the
matter of the construction of the present dwelling at said address over a
City easement, and then inquired why this was allowed.
-9-
V 763
Mr. Short answered Mr. Van Fleet's question by stating that the
pipeline constructed in said easement, and which connects to the storm
drain ditch, is made of cast iron pipe and he felt the City would not
have occasion to repair or replace such pipe.
Mrs. Hereford, residing at 907 Lomita Street, Mr. Robert L. Dearth,
847 Penn Street, and Mr.Fred Schlendering, each then addressed the Council
respecting the matter of controlling accumulated storm water.
At this point Mr. Tomaszewski requested permission to present pictures
and a list of names of property owners interested in the drainage problem
on Lomita Street, which permission was granted and which list and pic-
tures were filed with the City Clerk.
The Mayor at this time stated that the City had employed a full-time
Engineer who would be on the job on Monday, February lst, and that as soon
as possible the problem would be presented to said -Engineer in an endeavor
to work out a satisfactory solution. He then thanked those present for the
courteous manner in which they had presented their problems to the City
Council and assured them the City would do everything in its power to co-
operate in a solution of same. _
Mr. William Keller, residing at 512 Oregon Street, at this time ad-
dressed the Council respecting the present status of the installation of
sewers on Oregon Street between Mariposa Avenue and Pine Avenue, stating
that when the dwellings on said street were constructed, temporary cesspools
were allowed and that such cesspools have become filled; that it has been
necessary to have same pumped out and that during the recent rain the cess-
pool on his property had started to sink; that the condition in said area
is a serious one.
Director of Public Works Short explained to Mr. Keller that before
sewers could be installed in Oregon Street, it had -been necessary to secure
easements for street purposes, inasmuch as said street was not a publicly
dedicated street; that the contractor who had erected said dwellings on said
street had assured him he could secure such easements in a short time, there-
fore it was anticipated the sewers could be installed within approximately one
year, hence the permit was granted for temporary cesspools only. However,
difficulty was encountered in securing such easements and that only in Septem-
ber of 1953 was the final easement secured; that due to the topography in-
volved, it is necessary to construct the sewer line southerly on Oregon Street
to Pine Avenue, thence westerly along Pine Avenue to the Pacific Electric
track, and thence to Center Street; that Pine Avenue also is not a publicly
dedicated street, and it is necessary to secure easements from all of the
property owners in that portion of Pine Avenue; that such easements have all
been prepared and the Engineering Department is now engaged in securing sig-
natures to such easements, and that in the meantime plans for the sewer in-
stallation have been completed by his Department.
Mr. Keller inquired if he was liable for the expense of having his cess-
pool pumped out or if the City is liable, due to an error in time estimation.
City Attorney Woodworth replied to Mr. Keller's question and stated he did
not believe the City was liable due to delay in obtaining easement from the
owner of one parcel of property involved.
Mr. Kel-Jer then inquired of Mr..Short..what length of time, in his eSti-
mation, would elapse before the sewers in Oregon Street might be completed,
and Mr. Short stated that in his estimation only, it would probably be four
to five months.
REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES
Public Safety Commissioner Swanson reported that he, together with
Public Works Commissioner Peterson, had investigated the matter of the steep
-10-
V 764
bank which children are required to climb to cross the Pacific Electric
tracks at Pine Avenue in order to reach the High School; that it is pos-
sible and feasible to put in a wooden stairway provided the City's ease-
ment from Pacific Electric Railway Company covers the entire right- of-way
at this point.
Director of Public Works Short stated the easement did cover the
entire right- of-way at said point, whereupon the matter was referred to
the Engineering Department to prepare plans for said stairway and there-
after to present said plans to this Council for approval.
REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES
The City Clerk made reports as follows:
1. That pursuant to direction of the City Council she had procured
informal bids on a six- cylinder two -door sedan for use by the Building
Department of the City, which bids she reported to be as follows:
Bowlus Chevrolet
1954 Chevrolet 2 -Door Sedan, Model 1502 $1,547.87
(Price includes California State Sales Tax)
Allowance for 1947 Ford 2 -Dr. Sedan 250-00
1,297.87
Ira E. Escobar
1954 Ford 6 -,Cyl. Mainline Tudor $1,480.47
(Price includes California State Sales Tax)
Allowance for 1948 Ford Trade -In 250-00
1,230.47
1954 Ford V8 Mainline Tudor $1,555.92
(Price includes California State Sales Tax)
Allowance for 1948 Ford Trade -In 250-00
1,305.92
It appearing that the bid of Ira E. Escobar is the lowest bid received,
it was moved by Councilman Swanson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, that the
following resolution be adopted:
RESOLVED, that the City Clerk be and she is hereby author-
ized and directed to issue a Purchase Order to Ira E. Escobar,
covering the purchase for the Building Department of the City of
El Segundo.of one 1954 Ford six- cylinder Mainline Tudor Sedan, at
a total cost of $1,480.47, including California State Sales Tax,
Tess $250.00 turn -in value on the 1948 Ford Sedan presently owned
by the City of E1 Segundo.
Carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
2. That pursuant to the Council's instruction, she had caused a letter
to be directed to each of the ministers in the City of E1 Segundo requesting
their cooperation in having one of their number present at each Council Meet-
ing for the purpose of offering a prayer prior to the meeting itself.
Reverend Marvin A. Johnson, pastor of the Community Methodist Church
in El Segundo, stated he had been requested by Mrs. Elsey to take charge of
the organization of the ministers' group for this purpose, and that he would
be glad to accept such assignment and would report later to the City Clerk
on the matter.
13sla
V 765
Director of Public Works Short made reports as follows:
1. Pursuant to instructions of the City Council, the City Engineer
presented plans, profiles and drawings No. 530331, consisting of 22 sheets
numbered 3 to 24 both inclusive, for the construction of certain street
improvements and sanitary sewers and appurtenant work in portions of
Sycamore Avenue and other streets and easement, together with specifica-
tions and detailed estimate of the cost of said improvement, also a plat
of the assessment district for said improvement, consisting of 2 sheets.
Whereupon Councilman Peterson moved that said plans, specifications and
plat be approved and that said plans and plat be filed in the office of
the City Engineer, that the specifications and detailed estimate be filed
in the office of the City Clerk of said city, which motion was seconded by
Councilman Gordon, and carried by the following vote, to wit:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
Councilman Swanson then offered and moved the adoption of Resolution
of Intention No. 1380 for the construction of certain street improvements
and sanitary sewers and appurtenant work in Sycamore Avenue and other streets
and easement, as particularly delineated upon the plans and specifications
heretofore approved for said district, which motion was seconded by Council-
man Gordon, and carried by the following vote, to wit:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
2. The City Engineer h=x presented his report on the petition for
certain street improvements in Maple Avenue, between Virginia Street and
Hillcrest Street, as shown on Plan No. 530903, consisting of 2 sheets, on
file in the office of the City Engineer and which report showed that the
valid signatures attached to the petition, as reported by the Title Insur-
ance & Trust Company, represents more than 60% of the total assessable area
of the proposed assessment district, as shown on the plat attached to said
petition. _
On motion duly made and carried, said petition and report of the
Engineer were ordered filed with the proceedings for said improvement.
Councilman Gordon then offered and moved the adoption of Resolution
- No. 1381, entitled:
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA, IN THE MATTER OF THE
IMPROVEMENT OF MAPLE AVENUE BETWEEN VIRGINIA
STREET AND HILLCREST STREET AS PER PLAN &
PROFILE NO. 530903 CONSISTING OF 2 SHEETS, ON
FILE IN THE OFFICE OF THE CITY ENGINEER OF SAID
CITY.,
said motion being seconded by Councilman Swanson, and upon roll call, was
adopted by the following vote, to wit:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
-Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
Pursuant to instructions of the City Council, the City Engineer pre-
sented plans, profiles and drawings No. 530903, consisting of 2 sheets for
the -construction of certain street improvements in Maple Avenue, between
Virginia Street and Hillcrest Street, together with specifications and
--12-
v 766
detailed estimate of the cost for said improvements, also a plat of the
assessment district for said improvements as shown on Sheet 1 of said
plans. Whereupon Councilman Peterson moved that said plans, specifica-
tions and plat of the assessment district be approved and that said plans
be filed in the office of the City Engineer and that the specifications
and detailed estimate be filed in the office of the City Clerk, which
motion was seconded by Councilman Gordon, and carried.
Councilman Swanson then offered and moved the adoption of Resolution
No. 1382, being a Resolution of Intention to make certain street improve-
ments in Maple Avenue between Virginia Street and Hillcrest Street, in-
cluding intersections with said Maple Avenue, as particularly delineated
upon the plans heretofore approved for said improvements, which motion was
seconded by Councilman Gordon, and carried by the following vote, to wit:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
3. That Mr. Jack Allen of the Engineering Department, and Mr. Earl
Morgan, Sanitation Service Supervisor, had made an investigation and had
secured bids on a standby generator for use at Sewer Pump Station No. 1,
which bids he read to the Council and which were as follows, to wit:
Generator Equipment Co.
1 -Model 30R52, 30 KW, 37.5 K. V. A., Kohler Electric
Remote Control Plant, 220 volt, 3 phase A. C., sixty
cycle, together with certain accessories $3,394.80
(Plus California State Sales Tax)
Smith Booth Usher Company
1- Kohler Model 30R51, 30 KW Generator, 220 Volt
AC, Thre6 Phase,'Remote Starting, together with
certain accessories $3,837.45
(Plus California State Sales Tax)
American Construction Equipment Com a
1 -Model 50 392G6G1.8 Engenerator, Electric Power
Plant rated 40 KW 80,E PF, 110/220/440 VAC,
60 cycle, 1200 RPM, 3 phase $3,370.00
(Exclusive of accessories, and not including
California State Sales Tax)
Mr. Short further stated that Mr. Morgan is of the opinion the genera-
tor quoted by the Generator Equipment Co. will satisfactorily answer his
needs, and inasmuch as said quotation is the lowest quotation received on
equipment which fulfills the Cityfs needs in this connection, he recommended
the purchase be made immediately as an emergency measure.
City Attorney Woodworth inquired of Mr. Short if, in his opinion, this
emergency action is necessary for the preservation of the general welfare of
the City and also necessary for local and national defense purposes, and
Mr. Short answered in the affirmative.
Thereafter, it was moved by.Councilman Peterson, seconded by Councilman
Gordon, the following resolution be adopted:
WHEREAS, the City Engineer has made his report at this meet-
ing respecting his investigation of standby emergency generators
for use at Sewer Pump Station No. 1, of the City of El Segundo; and
WHEREAS, said Council, after reviewing all bids received on
said generator, finds the bid of Generator Equipment Co., herein-
after referred to, to be the lowest and best bid received for
--1-3-
V 767
equipment best suited for the needs and requirements of
the City; and
WHEREAS, said Council finds that an emergency presently
exists in said City and that the purchase of such generator
is necessary for the preservation of the public health, peace,
welfare and safety of the City of E1 Segundo, and is also
necessary in connection with local and national defense;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in view of the
foregoing findings by this Council, it does hereby authorize
the purchase of one standby emergency 30 KW generator set
from Generator Equipment Co., at its quotation of $3,394.80,
F.O.B. El Segundo, plus California State Sales Tax, and the
City Clerk is hereby directed to issue a Purchase Order ac-
cordingly.
Carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
4. That in the early part of 1953 he had reported to the City Council
that the property owners on the north side of Oak Avenue, between Eucalyptus
Drive and Sheldon Street, were desirous of having public sewers installed
and thereby reduce the sanitary problem in this area; that the southerly
side of Oak Avenue in this location is occupied by E1 Segundo High School,
which property is lower than that on the north side and which property would
be unable to use any sewer installed in said Oak Avenue, and would,therefore,
not participate in the cost thereof; that he had estimated the cost of the
construction of such sewer to be $2,008.00, which amount had been paid by
the .property owners on the north side of Oak Avenue; that the actual cost
of such - construction, including supervision and overhead, was $2,512.00,
or $504.00 over the original estimate, and he recommended that the City
Council authorize the absorbtion of such excessive cost by the City, es-
pecially in view of the fact that the property in the area to be served
by said sewer had paid an excessive amount for said sewers since their
properties were the only ones involved.
The Council concurring in such recommendation, it was moved by Council-
man Peterson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, the following resolution be
adopted: -
RESOLVED, that the sum of $504.00 be and the same is hereby
authorized transferred from the Sewerage Facilities Fund of the
City of E1 Segundo to the General Fund of said City, to repay
said latter fund the amounts heretofore expended by it in con-
nection with the construction of the sewers hereinabove referred
to,and that the City Clerk and the City Treasurer are hereby
authorized and directed to make appropriate entries in their books
of such transfer.
On roll call, the foregoing resolution was adopted by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
5. That he had received from the Los Angeles County Flood Control
District a breakdown of the bids received by it for Project No. 291, under
the said District's Bond Issue Project, and that the lowest bid received
on said Project No. 291 was $299,999.00, which bid is considerably under
the Bond Issue estimate; that Mr. J. R. Lester Boyle, Engineer, is investi-
gating as to the possibility of the City securing additional facilities .
-14-
v 768
for the apparent credit which exists between the amount of the bid and
the amount of the estimate, but that he believes an investigation should
also be made by the Legal Department of the Bond Issue Proposal, which
City Attorney Woodworth agreed to do.
City Attorney Woodworth reported that he had prepared an amendment
to the Salary Resolution which he was delivering to the City Clerk for
presentation at the proper time.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
The City Clerk at this time presented and read the title of Ordinance
No. 431, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EL SEGUNDO..
CALIFORNIA, REGULATING THE KEEPING OF
ANIMALS AND FOWLS THEREIN; MAKING PRO-
VISIONS FOR THE LICENSING OF DOGS; CREAT-
ING THE POSITION OF POUND MASTER; PROVIDING
FOR A PUBLIC POUND; ESTABLISHING PENALTIES
FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF; AND REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES AND PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CON-
FLICT THEREWITH.,
which was introduced and read at a regular meeting of the City Council held
January 20, 1954.
Moved by Councilman Gordon, seconded by Councilman Peterson, the further
reading of Ordinance No. 431 be waived. Said motion carried by the following
vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: - Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
Moved by Councilman Swanson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, that
Ordinance No. 431, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EL SEGUNDO,
CALIFORNIA, REGULATING THE KEEPING OF
ANIMALS AND FOWLS THEREIN; MAKING PRO-
VISIONS FOR THE LICENSING OF DOGS; CREAT-
ING THE POSITION OF POUND MASTER; PROVIDING
FOR A PUBLIC POUND; ESTABLISHING PENALTIES
FOR THE VIOLATION THEREOF; AND REPEALING ALL
ORDINANCES AND PARTS OF ORDINANCES IN CON-
- FLICT THEREWITH.,
which was introduced and read at a regular meeting of the City Council held
on the 20th day of January, 1954, and reread at this meeting, be adopted.
On roll call, said motion carried and said ordinance was adopted by the
following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
PAYING BILLS
The following demands, having had the approval of the Committee on
Finance and Records, were read:
-15-
General Fund
T. B. DeBerry 6 5.18
Bancroft - Whitney Company
9.28
Title Insurance and
& Printing Co.
Trust Company
13.30
South Bay Welder's Supply
11.81
Southern Calif. Gas Co.
156.39
Los Angeles Stamp &
Brown - Bevis - Industrial
Stationery Co.
12.36
Jeffries Banknote Company
51.50
Howard Supply Company
37.10
Federal Laboratories, Inc. 44.65
E1 Segundo Herald
4.00
Gordon Duff, Inc.
7.40
California Safety Council
30.00
The Hapsmith Company
105.20
Mil Zillgitt
14.44
Neva M. Else y, City Clerk
45.13
Lawndale Tribune
1.40
TOTAL
54v9.14
V 769
Water Works Fund
Industrial Stationery
& Printing Co.
21.77
Mutual Liquid Gas &
Equipment Co., Inc.
7.88
Smith -Blair Inc.
50.87
Brown - Bevis - Industrial
Equipment Co.
29.64
Victor Equipment Company
5.77
Mefford Chemical Company
427.86
Luippold Engineering Sales
62-35
TOTAL
$ 0 .14
Traffic Safety Fund
Prismo California Co. 355-35
TOTAL 355.35
County Aid Fund
County Road Dept., County
of Los Angeles $ 1,561.15
TOTAL 6 1,561.15
Moved by Councilman Gordon, seconded by Councilman Peterson, the
demands be allowed and warrants ordered drawn on and paid out of the re-
spective funds covering the same. Carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
NEW BUSINESS
.Moved by Councilman Peterson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, that
Resolution No. 1383, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF EL SEGUNDO, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION
NO. 1358 OF SAID COUNCIL BY AMENDING SUBDIVI-
SIONS "(D )II, "(H)" AND rf (I )1r OF SECTION 1 OF
PART I OF SAID RESOLUTION NO. 1358 AND BY
ADDING A NEW SUBDIVISION DESIGNATED AS "(I.1)fl
TO SAID SECTION 1 OF SAID PART I OF SAID RESO-
LUTION NO. 1358•0
which was read, be adopted.
On roll call, said.motion carried and said resolution was adopted by the
following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
At this time Director of Public Works Short stated that in view of
the fact the City Council anticipates employing a full-time Engineer as of
February 1, 1954, he desired to present his oral resignation as Director of
Public Works,.City Engineer, Water Superintendent, and .Street Superintendent,
but that he would recommend that the present arrangement between the City
and the engineering firm of J. R. Lester Boyle for his services on a con-
sulting basis, be kept in effect.
Thereafter, it was moved by Councilman Peterson, seconded by Council-
man Gordon, the following resolution be adopted:
-16-
V 770
RESOLVED, that effective as of midnight, January 31,
1954, the resignation of Donald R. Short as Director of
Public Works, City Engineer, Water Superintendent, and Street
Superintendent of the City of E1 Segundo, be and the same is
hereby accepted by this Council with regret; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the present arrangement
between the City of E1 Segundo and the engineering firm of
J. R. Lester Boyle, covering the consulting services of said
City by Donald R. Short, shall remain in effect until the
_further order of this Council.
On roll call, the foregoing resolution was adopted by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
Moved by Councilman Swanson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, that
effective as of, on and after the 1st day of February, 1954, and until
the-further order of this Council, Robert L. Webb, Jr. be and he is here-
by appointed as City Engineer, Water Superintendent, Street Superintendent,
and Sewer Superintendent for the City of E1 Segundo, and that said appointee
shall be compensated for his services in said capacities in accordance with
the provisions of the Salary Resolution of the City of El Segundo. Carried
by the following vote:
Ayes: Councilmen Gordon, Peterson, Swanson and Mayor Selby;
Noes: Councilmen None;
Absent: Councilman Baker.
No further business appearing to be transacted at this meeting, it
was moved by Councilman Peterson, seconded by Councilman Gordon, the meeting
adjourn. Carried.
A nnrnvcri .
Respectfully submitted,
�� -ol - F�g,
Neva M. Elsey, City CIr k
10