Newport Beach City Council preview

* Compiled by June Casagrande

URBAN RUNOFF PERMIT

An issue that divides coast cities from inland Orange County will

command council members’ attention today when they consider sending a

letter to the regional water-quality board. The letter urges the board to

stick to its guns in demanding some tough restrictions to keep debris out

of storm drains. The letter is part of a process to renew with the board

the county’s five-year permit governing its storm drains.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Confusion and contention are likely as council members scrutinize such

complicated issue as what to do with water used to put out fires. That

issue is the one with which the city has the biggest differences with the

water board. The letter, if sent, will argue that catching water used to

fight fires is not a good way to attain high water quality.

CONTRACTING CITY SERVICES

In its study session before the council meeting, members will look

more closely at ways to improve efficiency in city spending. The move is

in response to activist Phil Arst’s suggestion that the city is the worst

in the county at using outside contractors to get the most cost-effective

city services.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

If council members agree on ways to cut costs without cutting quality,

they may decide to bring the issue before the City Council at a

subsequent meeting.

CITY SIGN DESIGNS

Uniform, informative and attractive signs should guide residents and

visitors with ease throughout the city, staff have said. With this idea

in mind, the council will consider a $86,200 contract with Hunt Design

Associates to plan and design signs for pedestrians and motorists,

particularly to announce entrances to the city’s major gateways and

individual villages.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Staff have recommended the council approve the contract with Hunt,

which was the winner among 13 bidders.

FYI

* WHAT: Newport Beach City Council meeting

* WHEN: 7 p.m. today, study session will begin at 4 p.m.

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

* INFORMATION: (949) 644-3309