Called to order at 4:15 p.m.

ROLL CALL

Present: Rick Crane, Scott Dowds, Joe Henn, Mike Hurst, Walt Johnson, Kim Pouch, Jane Reifer, Mike Ritto, Steve Rose

Absent: Brian Williams, Robert Zerrenner

Staff: Terry Galvin

Also present:
Ernie Glover, GRC Redevelopment Consultants
Ralph Baker, Public

I.APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING ON NOVEMBER 15, 2001

Approved.

II. REDEVELOPMENT PLAN AMENDMENT

Ernie Glover reviewed the purpose of the redevelopment plan amendments and the process involved. They have prepared a report and an EIR. The Public Hearing is scheduled for February 19, 2002, and a general meeting for the public is scheduled for February 4, 2002. The Planning Commission has already reviewed the proposal. The Commission recommended approval and determined that the proposal is consistent with the General Plan.

Ralph Baker asked if the Agency will still be able to transfer money between one project area and another. Terry Galvin clarified that a transfer is possible as a loan between project areas, but the normal approach is to have one project area fund a project in another area if it can be shown that the project provides a benefit to all of the project areas.

Motion by Rose, second by Dowds, to recommend that the Redevelopment Agency approve the Plan Amendment as proposed.

III. REVIEW OF BUS BENCH ISSUES

Terry Galvin presented questions from the Agency meeting on the bench replacement and passed out background material. Jane Reifer felt that in selected locations bus shelters could fit in without interfering with signs or store fronts. Shelter design can be very minimal. Terry Galvin stated that the two bus stops on the east side of Harbor Boulevard would not work well with shelters because of awnings. The two bus stops on the west side of Harbor Boulevard could accommodate shelters.

Rick Crane stated that if shelters are used, they should be a custom or distinctive design. Steve Rose stated that the Downtown Art Committee could sponsor a design for two shelters.

The Committee was not in favor of advertising. All benches should be uniform. Motion by Ritto, second by Dowds, to recommend that if bus shelters are used, they should only be at the two stops on the west side of Harbor Boulevard, that they should be a distinctive design, and that they should not have advertising. Further, all benches and trash receptacles in the downtown should be of the uniform design originally recommended by the Committee.

IV. PROJECT STATUS

The Morgan project, at Chapman Avenue and Harbor Boulevard, is scheduled to begin in February. The BRE project at Lemon Street and Commonwealth Avenue, will be underway in March. The Fox Theatre is not in escrow, no commitment to any project. Heroes Restaurant (new location) is undergoing seismic work and interior demo work. They will try to open in September. Wahoo's Fish Tacos is not sure of timing, but has leased the space in the former American Savings Building.

Jane Reifer announced the formation of a foundation to promote the preservation of the Fox. They are attempting to revive community interest. She also pointed out that the Morgan contractor had the sidewalk torn up for three weeks and blocked passage for wheelchairs and access to the bus stop.

Ralph Baker stated that no one can force the Fox owner to do anything he does not wish to do.

The Downtown Parking Study will be discussed at the Council workshop.

V. OTHER BUSINESS

Terry Galvin passed out parking maps of downtown for members' information, along with copies of the 1982 National Main Street Center report with recommendations for proceeding with downtown revitalization.

Joe Henn discussed some of the current improvement projects at Fullerton College. Terry Galvin stated that Joe will be on a future agenda to give an update on the campus master plan and schedule.

VI. ADJOURN

Meeting was adjourned at 5:25 p.m.