Inside City Hall

--Compiled by June Casagrande

BALBOA VILLAGE IMPROVEMENTS

The City Council will consider a contract with GCI Construction for

nearly $3.3 million for improvements at Balboa Village. The contract, if

approved, will begin the first of three phases of the broad renovation

plan.

The first phase will include construction of a new storm drain and

water main at Balboa Boulevard and Washington Street, sprucing up and

landscaping Balboa Boulevard from Adams Street to Main Street, and fixing

up the pier parking lot and Pier Plaza.

The work would take place at the same time as other improvements in

the area, such as the reconstruction of Balboa Theater.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The project will likely be approved, but it won’t

be the last hurdle Balboa Village improvements must clear. The city is

about $2.1 million short of the $7.5 million estimated to complete all

three phases of the project. The council has been considering funding

options for the later phases. Tonight’s agenda item, if approved, will be

paid with various city funds, including the gas tax, off-street and

in-lieu parking, and the general fund.

BEACH RESTROOMS

Council members will consider awarding a $158,000 contract with BB

Construction to fix up restrooms. The bathrooms needing renovation are at

the Newport Pier, and 15th, 58th and Orange streets. If members approve

the contract, the company will replace some plumbing and lighting

fixtures, partitions, wood and tile, as well as repainting and other

improvements.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The council is expected to approve the contract,

which was the lowest of nine bids for the job.

JWA SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT

A far-reaching public relations campaign regarding John Wayne Airport

could get the go-ahead tonight. If the council passes it, a contract for

at least $318,000 will be approved with McNally Temple to send out a

series of letters to residents of Costa Mesa, Anaheim, Tustin, Orange,

Santa Ana and even Newport Beach. The letters will inform residents about

some airport noise and pollution protections that will expire Dec. 31,

2005, unless they are extended.

WHAT TO EXPECT: The council will likely approve the contract.

FYI

* WHAT: Newport Beach City Council meeting

* WHEN: 7 p.m. today

* WHERE: Newport Beach City Hall, 3300 Newport Blvd.

* INFORMATION: (949) 644-3309