The meeting was called to order at 7:07 p.m.

1. Roll Call

   Present:	Commissioners Applebaum, Beste, Cheatham, Lombardo
   Commissioner Winnek arrived at 7:24 p.m.
   Also Present:	Richard Morgan, Director of Public Works/City Engineer
   Ray Abassi, Contract Traffic Engineer
   Michael Flaherty, Public Works Superintendent
   Rhea Punneo, Administrative Assistant, Public Works Department

2. Flag Salute

   Commissioner Lombardo led the flag salute.

   Commissioner Lombardo took a moment to make the following announcements:

   1. The 13th Annual Pancake Breakfast will be on Sunday, October 24th from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Clark Building, cost is $8.00 per person, $15.00 for two. The Hermosa Beach Woman’s Club is sponsoring this event; all proceeds support local charities and philanthropies.

   2. The 7th Annual Holiday Fashion Show will be Sunday, November 7th at 5:30 p.m. at Sangria Restaurant, 68 Pier Avenue. The $25.00 admission includes dinner and a donation. This event is sponsored by the High Five Boutique and the Hermosa Beach Woman’s Club. All proceeds go to the Beach Cities Toy Drive.

3. Approval of Minutes

   Minutes of the 9/15/04 meeting were approved as published.

4. Public Comments

   None.

5. Correspondence

   None

6. Items for Commission Consideration

   Items 6b and 6a were heard out of order but are presented in order for clarity purposes.

   1. Change 26th Street to be One-Way Westbound

      Mr. Morgan noted that this item was heard at the September meeting but had to be rescheduled due to the lack of a quorum. Commissioner Beste recused himself since he lives on 26th Street. It was then determined that the residents in attendance at that the meeting could voice their comments so they would become part of the record.

      Mr. Morgan advised that Staff’s recommendation was to deny the request to make 26th St. one-way. The reasoning included the following:

      • There are no apparent traffic problems in this area. Staff has not observed a problem that would warrant this change.
      • Making 26th St. one-way could cause undesirable ripple effects on the surrounding streets.
      • Making the street one-way could potentially increase speeds.

      Commissioner Beste left the room at this time.

      Commissioner Beste left the room at this time.

      Commission Lombardo had three (3) letters from residents, which she read to the Commission, all indicating the desire to not have 26th St. changed to one-way.

      Comments from Commissioners:

      Commissioner Winnek noted there may be easements for those properties and asked about widening the streets. Mr. Morgan said there was the potential to widen the street approximately three to four feet.

      Commissioner Lombardo cited instructions for public comment and opened the floor to the public.

      Martha Lemmon, 262 27th Street

      • Noted her concern for the safety of all children.
      • Said the sidewalks are extra wide and asked if they could be reduced in width.
      • Presented pictures of 27th Court for Commissioners’ review.
      • Believes that there will be additional traffic on 27th St. if 26th St. changed.
      • Still hasn’t heard why residents want street one way.
      • At a crossroad with this issue.

      Jane Waterhouse, 337 26th Street

      • Has lived in this street for 42 years.
      • Traffic has changed due to larger vehicles, but believes people adjust.
      • Believes that one-way traffic would increase speeding on 27th Court.

      Jim Obradovich, Corner of 26th St. & Morningside Dr.

      • Advised that he started the petition to change 26th Street to one-way.
      • Thought this would reduce traffic and aid those people backing onto the street, which is very difficult.
      • Doesn’t understand why people would drive down an alley (27th Court) that goes to Ozone, not Manhattan.
      • Believes the natural flow of traffic is downhill, towards the beach.

      Kathy Hyatte, 27th Court

      • Is a 21-year resident of 27th Court and feels Hermosa is no longer a beach community.
      • Cars speed down 27th Court “as if it is the Autobahn.”
      • When there is parking on both sides of the street, drivers are courteous; when there is parking on only one side of the street, drivers feel they can speed up.
      • She’s concerned about speed and safety.

      Tim Borowsky, 355 26th Street

      • He has two (2) small children.
      • Lives across the street from the school, near the corner of 26th St. and Morningside.
      • Has a major concern about accidents – hasn’t seen one but feels there could definitely be one any time since there is a blind spot in this area.
      • If 26th made a one-way street, this problem would be alleviated.
      • He noted that since his home backs up to 27th Court, traffic on that street would affect him as well – doubts that traffic would increase.
      • Believes that making 26th Street one-way would make the area safer.

      Mark Lawrence

      • If 26th Street is made one-way, it will affect traffic on Gould and down 27th Street as it would divert traffic that would normally be traveling east on Gould
      • Contractor was able to get by without putting in setbacks at the corner of 26th Street and Morningside and was permitted to plant vegetation, which also blocks view, creating the blind spot previously mentioned.

      Alan Carter, 252 27th Court

      • Noted that the people who own the new homes at that location created the blind spot at the corner so the owners of those houses should not complain.
      • 27th Court runs parallel to 26th Street; on one side it is bordered by Morningside and on the other side by Ozone, which makes it the next viable street to absorb the traffic.
      • Discussed pictures previously presented to Commission showing 27th Court and how it is physically impossible to stay out of the way of traffic.
      • Noted that the building in question isn’t a school but a daycare center and that the area under discussion was the back entrance to the building, not the front.
      • One side of Morningside is painted red from 27th to 26th Streets to allow the free-flow of traffic.
      • He provided a photo showing the yard and parking lot of day care center indicating how well laid out it is.
      • Is not aware of complaints from parents or the manager of the daycare.
      • Pictures show 27th Court is very narrow.
      • Counted parking spots in the area and advised that there are approximately 23 parking spots and a number of red zones and driveways which allow plenty of availability for drivers to pull over noting this is not the case on 27th Court
      • The homes on 26th Street are set back from the street and 27th Court sits on the street.
      • Feels a better solution is to make 27th Court one way or no through traffic.
      • Asked that Commission not make 26th Street one-way.

      Bill Stover, 433 Gould Avenue

      • Agreed with Mr. Morgan’s earlier statement – everything has a ripple effect.
      • A review of past experience will show that on any street near Gould (since divider at Hermosa put in place to change from 4 lane to 2 lane), traffic has multiplied ten times.
      • Biggest safety issue regarding children is at the park at Gould.
      • Spoke with 5 – 6 neighbors after last month’s meeting and noted that residents are extremely concerned that a child could be injured or even killed in this area.
      • Even though it would be inconvenient, residents stated they would be happy to see Gould and 27th Streets made one way, traveling east.
      • Residents would be willing to sign a petition, put on a ballot, etc.
      • Asked for safety to be considered in this area, especially with truck, although it is supposed to be a no-truck zone

      Jim Hefner, 242 27th Street

      • He’s a 30-year resident who has found it interesting to hear all the comments about this item.
      • He feels that if 26th St. were made a one-way street, would be a problem.
      • To his knowledge, the only remaining east/west street in Hermosa with parking on both sides is 29th Street. Mr. Morgan asked him to clarify if he meant one-way. Mr. Hefner stated yes.
      • He feels that “27th Street is a stepchild in the city.”
      • He feels the traffic flow on 27th Street is very high although no survey has been done.
      • He noted that the 29 residents on the north end of 27th Street cannot park in front of their homes.
      • Feels that 27th Street takes the brunt of everything that goes on in the City.
      • Advised that there is a problem with trucks travelling 27th Street, ignoring signs stating trucks aren’t allowed.
      • Every 8 – 9 years, needs patchwork done; every 3 – 4 years has to re-plaster his house due the volume of trucks that travel down the street.
      • Requested that City remove signs that saying trucks aren’t permitted from Morningside to 27th and Manhattan to 27th since they aren’t enforced.
      • Requested that Staff research tickets issued to trucks over the last 5 years that have traveled against the signs they aren’t allowed – not maintenance or pick-up trucks, but large trucks such as those used to transport construction materials.
      • Requested that 27th Street be enforced.
      • If 26th Street made one-way, make 27th Street one-way also

      Discussion was brought back to the Commissioners, highlights include:

      • Clarification of no-truck signs: trucks are allowed into the area for deliveries but not to travel through the area on these small streets. Mr. Morgan will discuss enforcement with the PD. He added that this is a problem throughout the City as the law is vague in determining whether a delivery must be on that street or in the general area.
      • Historically, barriers are set up to reduce traffic volume not speed.
      • Must consider ripple effects when making these types of changes.
      • Widening streets would be a very costly solution. Not a good idea to reduce the size of the streets in a school zone.
      • Maybe removing parking on one-side of the street or alternating. As parking is at a premium in Hermosa, this will not be considered unless residents request and it is strongly supported.
      • The length of red curb on west side of street at stop sign at 27th and Morningside is 15 feet. Lengthening the red curb was suggested – possibly people are parking to close to the Stop sign, causing the sight problem.
      • This is a full-stop intersection – once a driver is at the sign, all ways are visible.

      Chairperson Lombardo called for the motion.

      MOTION by Commissioner Winnek to follow staff recommendation to not change 26th Street to a one-way street. Seconded by Commissioner Applebaum.

      AYES:	Winnek, Cheatham, Lombardo, Applebaum
      NAYS:	None
      ABSENT:	None
      ABSTAIN:	None
      RECUSED:	Beste

      Additional discussion: Commissioner Cheatham said that at the outset, looked good; but on reflection, believed the change would be bad for the area.

   2. Review Plans and Specifications for Project No. 02-108 2nd Street Resurfacing

      Mr. Morgan presented the item explaining that the 2nd St. improvements were originally scheduled for fiscal year 03-04. However, due to budget cuts and other items, it was delayed. He advised that the designs are complete and the project is ready to go out to bid. Realizing that the Commission had not reviewed the project, the residents were notified by mail of a public hearing at this commission meeting.

      Mr. Morgan introduced Frank Senteno, Project Engineer. Mr. Senteno proceeded to review the project, advising what types of improvements would be done at which locations. The scope of work includes construction and/or reconstruction of handicap access ramps, curbs and gutters, cross gutters, and replacement sidewalk panels. It also includes pavement rehabilitation consisting of various methods of street repair and improvements. He noted that residents will be advised when and how their specific areas will be impacted by notice at least 48 hours ahead of time. It is currently estimated that the project will begin in January or February of 2005 and would last approximately 45 days. The cost of the project is estimated to be approximately $350,000.00.

      Discussion among the Commissioners included the following:

      • Mr. Senteno stated that the project is scheduled to last 45 working days, approximately 2½ months. The actual schedule will be finalized once a contractor is selected. It is estimated that the project will work downhill from PCH in sections. Final determination will be made once a contractor has been selected.
      • Only a small portion of the area at Valley and 2nd Street behind the cross gutter will be affected.
      • Commission Cheatham stated the area on the plans for 554 2nd Street should be reviewed, as he believes it does not accurately reflect the area and the work to be performed.

      Commissioner Lombardo opened the floor and cited instructions for public comment.

      Richard Hart, 646 2nd Street

      • Said he was confused about slurry and grind & overlay. Mr. Senteno advised that pretty much all of Monterey and 2nd Street would be grind and overlay.
      • Asked for confirmation of slurry and grind/overlay on segments of street. Mr. Senteno advised that the entire stretches of both 2nd St. and Monterey are grind and overlay; the segments between Monterey and Valley and those between Hill and Ardmore are slurry seal.
      • Mr. Hart was unsure whether or not this was the correct forum to present his concerns about speeding on 2nd Street between Ardmore and PCH.
      • His concerns are about traffic on 2nd street including: speeding from Ardmore up 2nd St. to PCH a hill, t everyday there are people accelerating up this street to turn left or right creating a danger to pedestrians and cars; he has seen accidents; wants to know if any studies have been done in this area and if so, would like to see results; backing out of driveway in this area is dangerous for residents; wants to work with staff to find resolutions for the problems whatever the solutions. Feels Herondo should be better travelled than 2nd Street.

      Commissioner Lombardo questioned whether restricting the left turn on PCH from 2nd street if traveling East on 2nd would actually help.

      Mr. Hart stated that a barrier just west of Sav-On wouldn’t allow traffic to travel up 2nd Street and if left turns weren’t allowed, traffic would be diverted to Herondo.

      Commissioner Lombardo suggested that Mr. Hart contact Mr. Morgan directly at another time.

      Mark Bourdages, 511 211 2nd Street

      • Asked if the area between Hill and Valley will be grind and overlay or just slurry seal. Mr. Senteno advised that this area would be grind/overlay.
      • Asked for clarification of the time frame for grind and overlay. Mr. Senteno responded that the entire project would last approximately 45 working days.
      • Asked if the entire street would be shut down. Mr. Senteno responded that at some time, maybe half the street at one time to allow some traffic to flow through, but actual closures are still to be worked out.
      • Would local residents have access to garages? Mr. Senteno responded that garages would be accessible.

      Commissioner Cheatham added that during the City’s negotiation with Tyco for fiber optic cable in Hermosa Beach, Tyco agreed to provide funding to repair 2nd Street. After contract was negotiated, Tyco found a way to not tear up 2nd Street but the money is still there.

      All Commissioners blessed the project. No motion was necessary on this item.

   3. Commissioners' Reports

      None

   4. Public Works Department Reports

      1. Monthly Activity Report – August
      2. Project Status Reports – August

      The above items are presented for information purposes only.

   5. Items Requested by Commissioners

      None

   6. Other Matters

      Commissioner Cheatham: Requested to keep nameplate. Stated it was a pleasure serving on the Commission.

      Commissioner Winnek: Extended a thank you to Commissioner Cheatham for all of his work on the pavement survey and other sub-committees, and said he’s been an asset to the Commission.

      Commissioner Applebaum: Thanked Commissioner Cheatham for his service to the community and stated that he inspired him to become a Commissioner. Wished Commissioner Cheatham best of luck in future endeavors.

      Commissioner Lombardo: Thanked Commissioner Cheatham for all his work, said he will be missed.

      Commissioner Winnek: Has corresponded with owner of dry cleaners at Pier and Bard and who has requested another 15 minute green curb on Bard. Mr. Morgan advised that the original spot was for a trial period, noting that the item could be brought back to the Commission for review at the November meeting. The area would be noticed regarding a public hearing on this subject.

      Commissioner Applebaum: Asked if he should continue to research signage and funding for the signage to replace the existing marquee at Pier and PCH. Mr. Morgan advised that this is still an active issue and reminded the Commission that Council asked the Commission to investigate funding of approximately $75,000.00 – 100,000.00 for a two-sided marquee. The subcommittee, comprised of Commissioners Applebaum and Winnek, has presented two reports to date on funding efforts. Commissioner Winnek has been pursuing grants, which are very scarce in State of California, and has looked for grants from the Department of Energy, Homeland Security, the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation. Commissioner Applebaum wanted to bring in a speaker to make a presentation.

      Commissioner Winnek said he and Commissioner Applebaum arrived at the same supplier through different means. Commissioner Applebaum voiced his concern over pursuing corporate sponsorship. Mr. Morgan said he believes that Council is open to this avenue of funding and encouraged Commissioner Applebaum to pursue it. Mr. Morgan offered sketches that were presented to him in order to the see different levels of a marquee. Also, may be able to utilize City money by finding a corporate sponsor willing to match funding.

      Commissioner Winnek brought up when Pepsi wanted to sponsor items along the beach. Mr. Morgan confirmed that this was the case but Pepsi pulled out due to changes in their program. It was suggested that this avenue be revisited.

      It was suggested that City of Lawndale be contacted regarding their new signage at 405 Freeway and Hawthorne Boulevard although it appears the project may have come to a halt.

      Mr. Morgan announced that the monies collected for the Surf Memorial have reached $10,000. Commissioner Lombardo commented that the project is loaded with commercial appeal.

   7. Public Comment

      None.

   8. Adjournment

      Chairman Lombardo adjourned the meeting at 8:28 p.m. to the meeting of November 17, 2004.

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