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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011/03/07 - Minutes - SpecialMarch 7, 2011 CITY OF RANCHO CUCAMONGA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES SPECIAL MEETING WITH SENIOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE A. CALL TO ORDER A special meeting of the Rancho Cucamonga City Council was held with the Senior Advisory Committee on Monday, March 7, 2011, at Central Park in Rancho Cucamonga Hall located at 11200 Base Line Road, Rancho Cucamonga, California. Mayor L. Dennis Michael called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. Present were Council Members: Bill Alexander, Chuck Buquet, Diane Williams, Mayor Pro Tem Sam Spagnolo and Mayor L. Dennis Michael. Present were Senior Advisory Committee Members: Lydia Alcaraz, Donna Bradshaw, Frank Crapson, Lorraine Ferris, Luella Hairston, Martha Hughes, Jeri Lee, Jack Lieberman, Kathryn Magden, Marcia Matthews, Dawn Mcllvain, Richard Morris, Jim Russell, Michael Sweetland and Bill Vermilya. Member Ken Greenlee arrived at 9:15 a.m. Also present were: Jack Lam, City Manager; John Gillison, Assistant City Manager; Linda Daniels, Deputy City Manager; Bill Wittkopf, Public Works Director; James Troyer, Planning Director; Robert Karatsu, Library Director; Kevin McArdle, Community Services Director; Mike Bell, Fire Chief; Acting Police Chief Glenn Grabiec and Debra McKay, Records Manager/Assistant City Clerk. B. PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS Mayor Michael noted that the public communication period would be held on each topic after the staff presentation and the question and answer period. C. ITEMS OF BUSINESS C1. Update and Discussion on City's Volunteer Programs Mayor Michael welcomed everyone to the meeting today to talk about the City's volunteer programs and senior citizen services. Kevin McArdle, Community Services Director, introduced the members of the Community Services Department who would be presenting the staff report on the City's volunteer programs. Mr. McArdle noted that several Departments facilitate volunteer programs and introduced the Department Managers and staff in attendance. Nettie Nielsen, Community Services Superintendent; Daniel Schneider, Community Services Supervisor and Jennifer Camacho, Community Services Coordinator, gave a PowerPoint presentation to the City Council, the Senior Advisory Committee and the audience on the City's volunteer programs. Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 1 of 6 Nettie Nielson noted that volunteerism is on the rise in the City and across the nation. She addressed volunteerism in the Police Department in conjunction with the Citizens on Patrol Program, the Equestrians on Patrol Program, the use of Reserve Deputies and the Explorer Program. 107 volunteers participated in these programs in 2009-2010, which is valued at $536,266. Mrs. Nielson reviewed the volunteer programs in the Fire Department, including the use of Fire Explorers, the Fire Safe Council and volunteer auxiliary communication services. There were 50 volunteers in these programs in 2009-2010, which is valued at $174,486. Also discussed was the use of volunteers in the Building and Safety Department to provide code enforcement-related services. Three volunteers participate in this program, which is valued at $12,084 in 2009-2010. Nettie Nielson addressed the use of volunteers in the Public Works Department to provide various landscaping and park maintenance services. There were 350 people in this program in 2009-2010, which is valued at $53,607. The use of volunteers in the Animal Care and Adoption Center was discussed. Volunteers are used in a wide variety of areas, such as animal socializers, caretakers and outreach services. In 2009-2010, there were 262 volunteers, which is valued at $312,172. Lastly, Mrs. Nielson addressed the Library, noting that there were 406 volunteers in 2009-2010 who assisted with the following programs: Adult Literacy, Back-to Basics and Summer Reading. These volunteers also assisted with the Friends of the Library activities, participated in the Teen Action Group and made house calls. These services are valued at $520,030. Daniel Schneider, Community Services Supervisor, addressed the numerous volunteer opportunities available in the Community Services Department. He reported that volunteers assist with the many programs and activities offered by the Departmental Divisions: Administration, Senior Services, Human Services, Sports, Youth Programs, Teen Services, Special Events and Performing Arts. Mr. Schneider indicated that many programs offered by the Department would not be possible without the use of volunteers. In 2009-2010, there were 5,442 volunteers valued at $1,213,799. In conclusion, Mr. Schneider indicated that there were about 900 volunteers assisting in various Departments in 2009-2010. He noted that there is a City-wide volunteer recognition event each year. This year's event will be held on June 11, 2011 at the Epicenter. In closing, Mr. McArdle, Community Services Director, expressed appreciation for the hard work and commitment shown by the volunteers in the City. Mayor Michael estimated that over $2.6 Million in programs and services would be lost without the use of volunteers. On behalf of the entire City Council, he extended his appreciation. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Spagnolo, Acting Police Chief Glenn Grabiec addressed the use of Reserve Deputies. These deputies receive the same training as a regular patrol deputy. Council Member Alexander noted that volunteers provide a tremendous service to the community. He encouraged the City Council to consider the concerns of volunteers when they are offered. Jack Lieberman, Senior Advisory Committee Member, spoke about his involvement in several volunteer programs. He thanked the Community Services Department for their hard work. Ed Dietl inquired about museum services or historical preservation services, noting that these would be an asset to the City. Also, Mr. Dietl requested further information about the volunteer services provided to the Building and Safety Department. Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 2 of 6 John Lyons noted that volunteers helped to incorporate the City and pointed out that all of the City Council members have volunteered in the community. He indicated that the City has a rich heritage full of volunteers. C2. Update and Discussion on City's Programs and Services for Senior Citizens Kevin McArdle, Community Services Director, introduced the members of the Community Services Department who will be presenting the staff report on the City's programs and services for senior citizens. Dave Moore, Community Services Superintendent; Ryan Samples, Community Services Supervisor and Beverly McDonough, Community Services Coordinator, gave a PowerPoint presentation to the City Council, the Senior Advisory Committee and the audience on the programs and services offered to senior citizens. Mr. Moore addressed the 300+ affordable senior housing units provided by the Redevelopment Agency. He noted that the Redevelopment Agency has assisted over 120 senior citizens in the Mobile Home Assistance Program and 42 seniors in the Home Improvement Program. Mr. Moore noted that the Fire Department offers fire and medical emergency services on a daily basis. In 2009- 2010, the Department assisted 2,851 adults over the age of 60. The Fire Department also provides a program to safely dispose of needles and promotes the use of medication lists for easy access in the event of a medical emergency. Dave Moore addressed senior services provided at the Libraries, including 152 seniors who attended the Senior Book Club, adaptive services for hearing or sight-challenged individuals and house calls made to senior citizens. He noted that the Library is currently using a planning grant to assess the needs of adult programming in Rancho Cucamonga. Ryan Samples, Community Services Supervisor, spoke about the senior programs and services offered at the James L. Brulte Senior Center, including the Nutrition Program, health and wellness programs, recreation programs, senior transportation and senior services. The Nutrition Program is operated by the Oldtimer's Foundation and serves about 130 meals daily with about 80 meals being delivered to the homebound. The various health and wellness programs were discussed, which range from the participation in Wellness Pass (includes the use of the facilities and a personal trainer) to a flu clinic and wellness fair. There are about 52 special events offered to senior citizens each year, and many organized activities (games/cards, arts/crafts, senior chorale, etc.). Ryan Samples also addressed senior transportation, including the Silver Fox Express, the use of bus passes and Omnitrans/Access. Senior services include the LINK program, an informational and referral service, a resource library, .AARP tax counseling, AARP driver safety course and a bereavement support group. In order ~to offer these services, the Department has formed many partnerships and Mr. Samples discussed some of these as well. Lastly, Mr. Samples noted the challenges facing the Department. The senior transportation program has scaled back services due to funding challenges. He indicated; however, that staff continues to explore new funding sources for the program. The Nutrition Program is challenged to meet menu preferences and explore new operational models (cafe/entrepreneurial). Also, there is a need to review fees for senior programs along with a strong desire to not charge for a program or service unless absolutely necessary. Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 3 of 6 Dave Moore, Community Services Superintendent, discussed the role of the Senior Advisory Committee and their 2010-2011 goals. He indicated that this 17-member committee is appointed by the Park and Recreation Commission to advise on the concerns of the elderly and the programs and activities offered to the community. Mr. Moore noted that several members of the Advisory Committee would be addressing some of the 2010-2011 goals in more detail. Kathryn Magden, Senior Advisory Committee Member, addressed the goal to Identify and consider alternative transportation programs and modes. She noted the pros and cons of the various transportation programs (Fixed route service, access service, fee for service and a volunteer reimbursement program) and preferred the development of a door-to-door service in the City. Jack Lieberman, Senior Advisory Committee Member, noted the discussion about raising the age of eligibility to participate in senior programs. He indicated that resources are stretched thinner as the age limit is lowered. Currently, the age is 50, with the exception of the Nutrition Program (60). As no program is overbooked and the younger seniors balance out the activities of the traditional seniors, the Advisory Committee decided to leave the eligibility age alone. The Committee plans on re- examining this matter every two years. Luella Hairston, Senior Advisory Committee Member, addressed the goal to identify and implement additional fundraising activities. She reported that there are quarterly restaurant fundraisers and stated that the Dinner and A Movie event is held the first of each month. Also, Luella reported on the planned Magic and Masquerade event and the Silver Fox Follies. Marcia Matthews, Senior Advisory Committee Member, addressed the Black and White Gala benefitting homebound seniors. She provided an overview of the event and noted that the City Council had received information about the sponsorship opportunities. The goal is to raise $25,000 and the Committee has raised half of this amount already. She invited the Council and the audience to the Gala, which will be held on May 7, 2011 at Central Park. Dave Moore, Community Services Superintendent, addressed the remaining 2010-2011 goals. These included improving internal communication and marketing of Senior Center Programs (discussion is ongoing), establishing outdoor activities (subcommittee assignment), establishing nutrition classes (subcommittee assignment) and identifying and establishing culturally diverse programs and tools to accommodate multi-cultural patrons (subcommittee assignment). Council Member Alexander appreciated the presentation. He wanted to be sure that donations were attributed to the right programs and activities. Also, Council Member Alexander noted that donations should supplement the existing budget, not replace it. Council Member Williams addressed the discussion regarding the age modification, and appreciated the desire to make sure that the most elderly receive the greatest benefit. In response, Jack Lieberman, Luella Hairston, Martha Matthews and Kathryn Magden discussed the ways that programs have been modified to balance out the use of existing programs and services. Mayor Pro Tem Spagnolo noted that Burrtec Waste Industries offers a senior discount for trash pick- up and suggested that seniors contact Burrtec to take advantage of this program if they haven't already. Council Member Buquet appreciated the great job in serving the senior population. Funding limitations make it impossible to keep everyone happy. He noted that there are many bright people serving on the Senior Advisory Committee who are wonderful advocates for the seniors. Council Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 4 of 6 Member Buquet asked the City Council and staff to be flexible when addressing the needs of a majority of the senior citizen population and to limit the criticism when the funding falls short. Mayor Michael thanked the Senior Advisory Committee for their work and appreciated all of the services offered to the seniors. He noted that the City has not cut core services during the recession or during the State budget crisis. Mayor Michael indicated that any money raised will be used to supplement, not replace, the existing budget. He expressed a commitment to each of the goals identified by the Advisory Committee. In response to Mayor Michael, Kevin McArdle, Community Services Director, confirmed that fundraising efforts would not supplement the existing budget. Martha Hughes, Senior Advisory Committee Member, requested a state of the art pool as well as a state of the art gymnasium. In response, Mayor Michael noted that actions taken by the State have curtailed those goals. Lydia Alcaraz, Senior Advisory Committee Member, stated her commitment to fundraising for any of the senior programs or services. Michael Sweetland, Senior Advisory Committee Member, spoke about his experiences in fundraising. He pointed out that many people are asking for support with fewer dollars being available. Frank Crapson, Senior Advisory Committee Member, indicated that he was the President of the VIP Club. He indicated that many seniors feel that the money they raise is replacing money budgeted for senior transportation. In response, Kevin McArdle, Community Services Director, addressed senior transportation, noting that this program was initially provided by the YMCA. After the YMCA was not able to fund the program, it was funded with a County grant and is currently funded by Community Development Block Grant funds and City funds. Mr. McArdle stated that the financial support offered by the City has increased each year. Jack Lieberman, Senior Advisory Committee Member, noted that the program for the Silver Follies is filling up. He indicated that the Senior Advisory Committee looks for donations for all services at the Senior Center. Jim Russell, Senior Advisory Committee Member, was proud of the outstanding programs and services provided at the Senior Center. John Lin, representing the Ma-Jiang Club, indicated that this game is highly recommended by medical professionals for the elderly as it provides participants with a vigorous mental exercise routine. He thanked the City Council for the services provided at the Senior Center. Jimmy Taylor expressed concerns over the reduction of services to the disabled, referencing proposed actions at the state level. Pattie Orona noted that she is a personal trainer at the Wellness Center and spoke about the benefits of exercise to the quality of life. Marcia Dennis stated that she volunteers at the Center three times a week. She highlighted some of the activities offered at the facility. Galbrea Woodland encouraged the seniors to participate in the table tennis program and expressed her appreciation to the wonderful staff and the beautiful facility. Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 5 of 6 Charlie Raymond suggested that a posting board be displayed for senior needs. He noted that this would help connect those in need of a plumber, or a pet, etc., with people who might be able to help in addressing these needs. Mayor Michael referred the audience to the table being staffed by the Fire Department, noting that the table has information on the Department's services. He appreciated the large turnout for today's meeting and thanked everyone for their attendance. D. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 11:02 a.m. Respectfully submitt~ed,/ ,V ~ ~ Y Debr L. McKay, MMC Assistant City Clerk/Records Manager Approved: March 16, 2011 Special City Council Meeting with the Senior Advisory Committee March 7, 2011 -Page 6 of 6