HUNTINGTON BEACH CITY COUNCIL WRAP-UP

WHAT HAPPENED:

The council agreed to terminate a local emergency in relation to the

statewide energy crisis.

WHAT IT MEANS:

On Jan. 22, the city declared a local state of emergency to cut down

on power costs. Then, the city had incurred about $835,000 in penalties

for using power during interruption periods, when the city is supposed to

curtail its energy use in return for lower power rates.

City officials said that in the months since, statewide conditions

have improved to the point that the emergency is no longer necessary.

Vote:

6-0, with Councilman Dave Garofalo absent.

WHAT HAPPENED:

Council members approved an employment agreement for personal services

for City Administrator Ray Silver.

WHAT IT MEANS:

Each year Silver’s position as city administrator is considered for

compensation adjustment. In Monday’s decision, council members approved a

5% cost-of-living adjustment for Silver, as well as a reallocation of

benefits under his deferred compensation and 401A plans in to salary.

Vote:

5-0, with Garofalo and Councilman Peter Green absent.

WHAT HAPPENED:

Council set aside $990,000 in unappropriated general fund money to

cover the cost of removing asbestos from the first floor of City Hall.

WHAT IT MEANS:

City officials discovered asbestos at City Hall while renovating the

engineering division area on the first floor in January. Then, trace

amounts of the carcinogen were found in a sprayed-on fireproofing

material that had been exposed by interior demolition.

Decontamination work has since been completed in the treasure’s

office, first floor lobby and administrative services department,

allowing access to those areas, city officials said.

Abatement efforts in the engineering section began Feb. 27 and is

expected to take about four weeks to complete, after which, the first

floor renovation plan will resume, they added.

Vote:

7-0

NEXT MEETING

The City Council will reconvene at 5 p.m. April 16 in Room B-8 of City

Hall at 2000 Main St.