2009-03-03 Regular CC MinutesMINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- -MARCH 3, 2009- -7:30 P.M.
Mayor Johnson convened the Regular Meeting at 7:55 p.m.
Councilmember Matarrese led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers deHaan, Gilmore,
Matarrese, Tam, and Mayor Johnson - 5.
Absent: None.
AGENDA CHANGES
None.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(09 -089) Proclamation declaring March 2009 as Polio Awareness
Month.
Mayor Johnson read and presented the proclamation to John Stafford,
President of Alameda Rotary.
Mr. Stafford thanked Council for the proclamation; stated more work
needs to be done to eradicate polio once and for all.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Johnson announced that the Minutes [paragraph no. 09 -090],
the recommendation to accept the Quarterly Sales Tax Report
[paragraph no. 09 -0921, and the Final Passage [paragraph no. 09-
094] were pulled from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Councilmember Matarrese moved approval of the remainder of the
Consent Calendar.
Vice Mayor deHaan seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous
voice vote - 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an
asterisk preceding the paragraph number.]
(09 -090) Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting held on
February 7, 2009, the Special and Regular City Council Meetings
held on February 17, 2009, and the Special City Council Meeting
held on February 24, 2009.
Councilmember Tam stated that she would abstain from voting on the
February 17, 2009 minutes.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 1
March 3, 2009
Councilmember Tam moved approval of the February 7, 2009 and
February 24, 2009 minutes.
Councilmember Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Vice Mayor deHaan moved approval of the February 17, 2009 minutes.
Councilmember Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by the
following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers deHaan, Matarrese, and
Mayor Johnson - 3. Abstentions: Councilmembers Gilmore and Tam - 2.
( *09 -091) Ratified bills in the amount of $3,417,821.53.
(09 -092) Recommendation to accept the Quarterly Sales Tax Report
for the period ending September 30, 2008.
Speaker: David Howard, Alameda, submitted handout.
Councilmember Gilmore complimented the Finance Department for the
report; stated the report is complete; that she is impressed with
the County and State information; comparative quarters show that
the City has not varied much; that she would like to have next
quarter's receipts compared to this quarter receipts.
The Interim Finance Director stated the sales tax consultant
advised public information could not be released if a particular
category had less than three businesses; staff is in the process of
revising the chart; the restaurant category saw an over 200
increase.
Councilmember Gilmore inquired whether the Harbor Bay Business Park
change is because more businesses are coming in and the reverse is
true of Alameda Point, to which the Interim Finance Director
responded in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated the reoccurring decline is a concern; the
State held half way stable because of service station figures,
which are currently declining.
Councilmember Matarrese requested clarification on the increase in
wholesale building materials which is a triple digit increase.
The Interim Finance Director stated Kohl's construction contributed
to the increase; projected sales tax is $5.2 million for this year;
the figure was reduced to $4.8 million mid year; staff hold firm
that $4.8 million will come in this year.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 2
March 3, 2009
Councilmember Tam stated that she is impressed with the North of
Lincoln Avenue and Webster Street sales tax; inquired what
triggered the increase.
The Interim Finance Director responded that the next report would
target geography and provide a better understanding of growth.
Councilmember Matarrese moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Gilmore seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
( *09 -093) Recommendation to authorize the City Manager to execute
Agreements with the Water Emergency Transportation Authority and
Harbor Bay Maritime for the Operation of the MV Pisces.
(09 -094) Final Passage of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal
Code by Adding Article XX to Chapter XIII (Building and Housing)
and Amending Subsection 30 -7.12 (Reduction in Parking Requirements
for Existing Facilities) of Section 30 -7 (Off- Street Parking and
Loading Space Regulations) of Chapter XXX (Development
Regulations), By Adding Subsection 30- 7.12(c) to Allow for
Reduction in Parking Requirements for Seismic Retrofit. Continued
to March 17, 2009.
Speaker: Former Councilmember Barbara Kerr, Alameda, provided a
handout.
Vice Mayor deHaan requested an explanation of the fee structure.
The Building Official stated the property owner would have eighteen
months to provide an engineering report once notification is given;
a $750 fee would be charged once the report is submitted.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether the fee would be per unit, to
which the Building Official responded the fee would be per
building.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether a condominium would be charged
as one unit, to which the Building Official responded in the
affirmative.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired why "soft story" is not included in the
title.
The Building Official responded that he does not know; stated "soft
story" is noted throughout the report; several articles have been
written on the matter; property owners were notified of two public
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 3
March 3, 2009
workshops.
Councilmember Tam stated an apartment manager expressed some desire
to have Council look at extending the time to twenty months because
the magnitude of work would make it difficult for owners.
The Building Official stated the proposed ordinance would request a
report within eighteen months, not that the work be done.
Mayor Johnson stated the first step is the report requirement;
Council has not adopted any mandatory action yet.
The Building Official stated the only requirements would be to have
the report done within eighteen months and install a shut -off value
within sixty days of notification.
Mayor Johnson stated the second part would address soft story
structure issues; there is still quite a bit of time in terms of
taking action.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether a fee would still be charged if
a determination is made that there is no impact.
The Building Official responded the property owner would have the
ability to appeal before completing the report; stated there would
not be a cost until the report is submitted; staff is being careful
in identifying the buildings; volunteer engineers would be
inspecting the buildings.
Mayor Johnson stated a speaker at the last Council meeting
mentioned that he did some retrofitting and believes that his
structure is sound; inquired whether the speaker could appeal
before a study is performed, to which the Building Official
responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether insurance companies and banks
penalize property owners once the buildings are identified as soft
story.
The Building Official responded insurance companies know whether a
building is soft story; Berkeley and Fremont owners have been able
to obtain insurance and loans.
Councilmember Matarrese moved final passage of the ordinance.
Mayor Johnson seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Gilmore stated that she was not at
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 4
March 3, 2009
the last Council meeting; that she does not have the real flavor of
the speakers' comments and is uncomfortable voting either way on
the matter.
Councilmember Matarrese stated that he would withdraw his motion
and defer the matter until the next Council meeting.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
None.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(09 -095) Public Hearing to consider an appeal of the Historical
Advisory Board's denial of a request to remove 2413 Buena Vista
Avenue from the Alameda Historical Building Study List and denial
of a Certificate of Approval to allow demolition of the structure;
and
(09 -095A) Resolution No. 14311, "Granting the Applicant's Appeal
and Overturning the Historical Advisory Board's Denial of Planning
Applications Numbers, PLN 08 -0211 and PLN 02 -0970, Requests to
Delete 2413 Buena Vista Avenue from the Alameda Historical Building
Study List and a Certificate of Approval to Allow Demolition of the
Building." Adopted.
The Planning Services Manager gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Johnson opened the public portion of the hearing.
Proponents (In favor of appeal): Bill Phua, Appellant /Applicant;
Hugh K. Phares, Alameda; John M. Costello, Alameda; Leonard Goode;
Robb Ratto, Park Street Business Association (PSBR); Debbie George,
PSBR: Donna Layburn, Market Place.
Opponents (Not in favor of appeal) : Adam Garfinkle, Alameda; Patsy
Paul, Alameda, (submitted comments); Rosemary McNally, Alameda;
Randall Miller, Historical Advisory Board (HAB); Valerie Turpen,
Alameda; Betsy Mathieson, Alameda, (submitted handout); Richard W.
Rutter, Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (RAPS);
Christopher Buckley, RAPS; Erik Miller, Alameda; Nancy Clark,
Alameda; Melanie Wartenber, Alameda; Corinne Lambden, Alameda.
Neutral: Mark Irons, Alameda.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Johnson closed the public
portion of the hearing.
Councilmember Matarrese requested information on the zoning of the
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 5
March 3, 2009
parking lots.
The Planning Services Manager stated the parking lots are zoned
Commercial Manufacturing (CM).
Councilmember Matarrese inquired what the zone is for the parking
lot behind the Market Place, to which the Planning Services Manager
responded that he believes the parking lot is zoned CM.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether zoning information is part
of the real estate transaction.
The Planning Services Manager responded that he does not know;
stated staff would provide the information to anyone who checked
with the City.
Councilmember Gilmore stated speakers spoke about the house being a
labor of love; that she has no doubt that the house could be
restored; the problem is finding someone to love the house;
anything is possible with enough money, love and desire; inquired
how many parking spaces would be needed for the proposed project
and how many parking places the lot would provide.
The Planning Services Manager responded 50 parking spaces would be
required for the proposed project; stated the total number of
parking spaces on site is 40; 2413 Buena Vista Avenue has
approximately 17 compact parking spaces.
Councilmember Gilmore requested clarification on whether 10 -150 of
the structure would remain original and the rest would be
replicated.
The Planning Services Manager stated the engineer noted that 10 -150
of the structure could remain; the remaining portion would be
milled to match or would be as close as possible to what is there
now.
Councilmember Gilmore inquired whether there are any rules for
replication and whether it would be treated as historic
preservation.
The Planning Services Manager responded
considered a demolition if the entire siding
replacing the siding with something that
considered replacement in kind and would not
threshold; currently, staff is working o
historic preservation regulations.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 6
March 3, 2009
a project would be
was eliminated; stated
would match would be
trigger the demolition
a the wording of the
Councilmember Tam inquired whether the house would no longer be
eligible to be on the National Register of Historic Places list if
80 -900 of the materials were replaced.
The Planning Services Manager responded the historic resource would
not be preserved if the original siding and windows were
replicated; further responded that the historic building study list
was developed in late 1970's and listed properties in Alameda that
were afforded historic preservation; the house no longer retains
eligibility on the State list; a subsequent change in the zoning
code gave historic consideration to buildings built prior to 1942.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether a demolition permit would not be
needed if the house were removed from the list.
The Planning Services Manager responded in the affirmative; stated
the HAB would still need to grant a Certificate of Approval because
the house was built prior to 1942.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated it is hard to believe that only 100 of the
building would remain in tact; the roof, siding, and interior walls
would remain; a house located at 1423 Morton Street was on the
historical building study list; staff recommended upholding the
HAB's denial of a request to tear the house down; the only
difference in tonight's situation is retail upgrading.
The Planning Services Manager stated the Buena Vista house was
placed on the historical building study list because it is a Queen
Anne Victorian cottage; that he feels that the house is no longer
eligible for inclusion of the State Historic Resource Inventory
because of deterioration, streetscape changes, and that the
architect, designer and builder are unknown.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated consistency is important; inquired whether
staff is helping the owner to relocate the house to the former
Island High School site.
The Planning Services Manager responded the matter has been
considered; stated specifics have not been discussed with the
property owner.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether dialogue has been closed
regarding relocation.
The Planning Services Manager responded in the negative; stated the
property owner is still willing to entertain proposals to relocate
the house.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 7
March 3, 2009
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired about deconstruction.
The Planning Services Manager responded the reuse of existing
materials is strongly encouraged; community members have expressed
an interest in reusing some of the building materials.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether homes wedged in the R -5, R -2 and
commercial areas would be endangered.
The Planning Services Manager responded tonight's decision would be
specific to the site; stated a precedent would not be set.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated that he is hard pressed to consider
removal of the house for eight spaces.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether there would be 17 spaces,
to which the Planning Services Manager responded in the
affirmative.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired how deep is the lot, to which the
Planning Services Manager responded 149.85 feet deep and 40 feet
wide.
Mayor Johnson stated each case needs to be considered individually;
that she was on the Council at the time of the Morton Street
project; that she voted against demolition; the Morton Street
project was not part of a larger project or parking issues; the
owner owned the property for many years and allowed the property to
deteriorate significantly.
Councilmember Matarrese stated the system is set so that each
property has its own hearing; the Morton Street house was in a
residential area; the Buena Vista Avenue house is in a transition
zone; decisions are difficult when there is residential next to
commercial activity; the Buena Vista house is isolated from
residential by the fact that there is a parking lot on the southern
side; there is no indication of a noteworthy resident, architect or
builder.
The Planning Services Manager stated some of the architectural and
historic features have deteriorated over time due to neglect; the
historic neighborhood has been altered over time; the site is not
associated with a historic event.
Mayor Johnson stated a number of speakers stated that they do not
want the building to be demolished; however, revitalization in the
area is highly dependent on parking; AAPS suggested more marketing
to find someone to take the house; inquired whether the owner has
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 8
March 3, 2009
any objection.
Mr. Phua responded that he has no objection to giving away the
house in a reasonable amount of time.
Mayor Johnson inquired what is the timeframe for getting permits
for the rest of the project.
Mr. Phua responded as soon as the entitlement process is complete,
which could be six months.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired what would be the affect on the
project if the demolition were contingent on obtaining a permit for
construction.
Mr. Phua responded there would not be a problem if building and
demolition permits would be granted; stated other processes could
make the project uncertain.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether deconstruction was considered,
to which Mr. Phua responded not seriously.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated deconstruction could result in a tax write
off.
Mr. Pua stated that he has not studied said option.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated staff opened dialogue regarding the former
Island High School site through Development Services.
The Assistant City Manager stated staff discussed the matter with
the School District; the house would need to be integrated into a
larger project; economics need to be reviewed.
Vice Mayor deHaan stated that he would like other alternatives to
be reviewed.
Councilmember Matarrese moved approval of granting the appeal with
the condition that the demolition permit not be issued until the
permits for the project are pulled.
Councilmember Matarrese stated that his motion is made by weighing
the benefit of preserving a house with debatable costs against the
value of a retail project on Park Street to replace sales tax loss
and pushing forward the north of Lincoln Avenue project for
revitalizing from Lincoln Avenue to the bridge.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether the motion could include a
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 9
March 3, 2009
deconstruction requirement.
Councilmember Matarrese responded the motion would include having
the feasibility of deconstruction and reuse to the highest extent
possible.
Vice Mayor deHaan inquired whether the motion could include efforts
to relocate the building.
Councilmember Matarrese responded that the motion would encourage
relocation without holding up permits.
Councilmember Gilmore seconded the motion as modified.
Under discussion, Councilmember Tam stated that she supports the
motion; forcing the property owner to restore the house against his
will and possibly not receiving any historical value after
restoration seems to defeat the purpose of forcing a restoration on
the site.
Councilmember Gilmore urged the owner to do everything possible to
try and give away the house. On the call of the question, the
motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers
Gilmore, Matarrese, Tam, and Mayor Johnson - 4. Noes: Vice Mayor
deHaan - 1.
(09 -096) Public Hearing to consider an Appeal of the Historical
Advisory Board's decision to conditionally approve a Certificate of
Approval to alter more than thirty percent of the value of a
historically significant residential building located at 1150 Bay
Street for the purpose of remodeling a previous addition and adding
a front porch. The site is located within an R -1, One Family
Residential Zoning District; and adoption of related resolution.
Councilmember Gilmore and Vice Mayor deHaan stated that they would
recuse themselves on the matter because of living in close
proximity of the subject property.
The Planner III gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether the existing porch is the
original porch.
The Planner III responded the existing porch is the original porch
but has been modified; stated the side porch entrance was removed.
Mayor Johnson opened the public portion of the hearing.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 10
March 3, 2009
Proponents (In favor of appeal): Robert Wooley, Appellant,
(submitted handout); Robert Ramos, Alameda; John Gaskill, Alameda;
Sally Damson, Alameda; Dee Keltner, Alameda.
Opponents (Not in favor of appeal): Robert Mackensen, Yuba City,
(submitted letter); Mark Irons, Alameda; Tricia Emerson, Alameda;
Karen Thompson, Alameda; Jerry Wilkins, Custom Kitchens; Linda
McKenna, Custom Kitchens, Inc.; Craig Combs, Alameda.
There being no further speakers, Mayor Johnson closed the public
portion of the hearing.
Mayor Johnson requested clarification on the HAB process.
The Planner III stated there were two vacancies when the project
went before the HAB; there were only three sitting members; the
first time the project went to the HAB, the HAB voted two to one to
deny the Certificate of Occupancy; the second time the HAB voted
two to one denying the Applicant's request for Certificate of
Approval; the third time the HAB voted two to one in favor of
granting the Applicant Certificate of Approval.
Mayor Johnson inquired whether a minimum of three votes was needed
or whether a majority of those present was needed, to which the
Planner III responded a majority of those present.
Mayor Johnson inquired why the project was brought back so many
times.
The Planner III responded the project was brought back a third time
because after the HAB denied the Certificate of Approval, the
Applicant was directed to redesign the porch and return the
following month with a new design.
The Planning Services Manager stated the HAB voted to continue the
item to a future meeting to allow the Applicant to go back and
redesign the project.
Councilmember Matarrese stated the matter sounds like a Design
Review issue, which would be handled by the Planning Board;
inquired why the matter went to the HAB.
The Planner III responded the project went to the HAB because the
Applicant was proposing to alter more than 300 of the building; the
City's Historical Preservation Ordinance requires that the
Applicant receive a Certificate of Approval from the HAB; the
Applicant went to the Planning Board after receiving a Certificate
of Approval because the approved design required a side yard set
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 1 1
March 3, 2009
back variance; in December 2008, the project went before the
Planning Board for Design Review of the entire project; the
Planning Board approved the project.
Councilmember Matarrese stated the ordinance needs to be revisited
because the HAB was doing Planning Board work.
Ms. Damson stated that one HAB Member felt compelled to revisit the
previous month's vote and she changed her vote.
The Planning and Building Director stated staff has been working on
the ordinance for some time; the ordinance is almost ready; another
item on tonight's agenda reflects a change in the Charter that
would require a quorum of the full HAB to make a decision rather
than a quorum of those present.
Mayor Johnson inquired what was the Planning Board's decision.
The Planner III responded the Planning Board granted the Applicant
the variance for the side yard set back reduction and Design Review
approval for the entire project, which included the porch.
Councilmember Tam stated the staff report notes that a number of
porches on the block have the same design as the one proposed
tonight; inquired how the designs affect the streetscape in
comparison to the proposed project.
The Planner III responded 1150 Bay Street is in the middle of a
uniform front yard set back of 34 and 37 feet; many neighbors would
like to have the set back maintained; the set backs are less in the
1200 block.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether there is a reason why the
porch needs to stick out beyond the roofline of the main house.
The Planner III responded the Applicant would like to utilize the
front portion by incorporating French doors; stated a porch would
allow an opportunity to utilize more of the front yard; the design
is appropriate for the house from a functionality standpoint.
Mayor Johnson stated having porches on the side of the houses was
deliberate and was the intent of the original neighborhood
designers; having the porch extend is not a necessary part of the
project; front yard extensions would significantly change the
neighborhood.
Councilmember Matarrese stated a chalk line could be drawn down the
street; the historic context of the street should have been
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 12
March 3, 2009
evaluated by the HAB rather than a Design Review.
The Planner III stated the 1200 block of Bay Street has set backs
of approximately 30 feet or less; approximately twelve homes near
1150 Bay Street maintain the 34 -37 foot set back; the west side of
Bay Street does not have a uniform set back.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether 1115, 1128, 1134, and 1160 Bay
Street have less than a 30 foot set back and have porches with
similar designs.
The Planner III responded 1232 and 1114 Bay Street have a set back
less than 34 -37 feet; stated that he cannot confirm set backs for
the other houses.
Councilmember Matarrese moved approval of granting the appeal with
reference only to the seven -foot extension of the porch into the
yard.
Councilmember Tam inquired what would be done with the HAB decision
to grant a Certificate of Approval to alter more than 300 of the
value of the building.
Mayor Johnson stated that the Appellant has indicated that the only
issue is the front porch.
Councilmember Matarrese stated the motion is to uphold the appeal
specific to the seven feet of the front porch area.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether the property owner could proceed
if a porch was built that would not encroach seven feet.
The City Attorney responded that there is no legal issue with the
fact that the design of the porch extends forward seven feet;
stated there is no set back violation in the front yard; the porch
design is the issue based on the 30% value of the building or
alternatively the variance of the side yard set back.
Councilmember Tam stated the Planning Board considered the design
review and approved the entire project, including the front porch
and the variance for the front porch and reduced side yard set
back.
Councilmember Matarrese stated the houses were built in a certain
fashion and none of them have front porches; a similar issue
occurred on Encinal Avenue; a row of three or four Victorians are
viewed as historic.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 13
March 3, 2009
Councilmember Tam stated Councilmember Matarrese's motion is
formulated around a seven foot set back that is legal but is based
on an appeal of a Major Design Review that is incorporated as part
of the 30% alteration that was before the HAB; inquired whether a
porch would be feasible without a seven foot encroachment.
Councilmember Matarrese stated that he is thinking of a side porch.
Mayor Johnson inquired why the porch needs to extend beyond the
front of the house.
Mr. Combs responded the intent is to provide cover for the entry
steps.
Mayor Johnson stated side porches were deliberate.
Mr. Mackensen stated the design is actually a trellis over a patio;
the French doors would provide light and ventilation and need to go
out somewhere; the pillars would disappear into the shrubbery and
would not impose on the lawn.
Councilmember Tam stated that she cannot support the motion; the
Planning Board approved the seven foot legal requirement; the
Encinal Avenue situation is not the same; the Bay Street homes are
not exactly the same and create a nicely landscaped corridor which
can still be preserved with the proposed energy efficient
improvements.
Mayor Johnson seconded the motion, which FAILED by the following
voice vote: Ayes: Councilmember Matarrese and Mayor Johnson - 2.
Noes: Councilmember Tam - 1. Abstentions: Vice Mayor deHaan and
Councilmember Gilmore - 2.
The City Attorney stated three votes are required in order to take
action; two Councilmembers announced conflict on the matter; the
lower [HAB] decision will stand.
(09 -097) Resolution No. 14312, "Revising the Memorandum of
Understanding Between the Alameda Police Officers Association and
the City of Alameda for the Period Commencing January 6, 2008 and
Ending January 2, 2010." Adopted.
Mayor Johnson called a recess at 11:27 p.m. and reconvened the
Regular Meeting at 11:31 p.m.
The Human Resources Director gave a brief presentation.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 14
March 3, 2009
Councilmember Matarrese stated that he is pleased to have an
agreement; thanked the Police Officers Association for helping with
the City's fiscal needs; expressed appreciation to the negotiating
team.
Councilmember Tam echoed Councilmember Matarrese's appreciation to
the Police Officers Association and negotiating team.
Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
(09 -098) Introduction of Ordinance Amending Alameda Municipal Code
Subsection 30 -4.1 (R -1, One- Family Residence Districts) of Section
30.4 (District Uses and Regulations) of Article I (Zoning Districts
and Regulations) Chapter XXX (Development Regulations) By Deleting
Subsection 30 -4.1 in Its Entirety and Replacing with a New
Subsection 30 -4.1 to Allow Ministerial Approval of Secondary Units
on Sites Having a Single- family Dwelling and Meeting Specific
Standards. Introduced.
The Planning Services Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Matarrese requested clarification of the ownership
provision and conformance with State law.
The Planning Services Manager stated State law allows a city to
require owner occupancy on site of a second unit; people want to
see the requirement in the regulations in order to preserve the
character of the single family neighborhood; an owner living on the
site might be more responsive to any concerns.
Councilmember Tam inquired whether there would be an exception if
an owner had to relocate for a short period of time.
The Planning Services Manager responded the Code provides an
exception of two years.
Councilmember Tam inquired how realistic it would be to monitor
owner occupancy of the secondary unit; further inquired whether the
matter would be monitored through complaints.
The Planning Services Manager responded complaints would be one way
to monitor; stated another way would be to send out annual
certification letters.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 15
March 3, 2009
Councilmember Gilmore inquired what would be the penalty for non-
compliance.
The Planning Services Manager responded staff would need to come
back to Council for a monetary penalty; stated initially,
enforcement action would be taken; ultimately, citations would be
issued which would be difficult.
Councilmember Gilmore inquired whether an owner would need to
ensure that a person buying a property would live on the site;
further inquired whether the City would advise the owner of record
that both units could not be rented out.
The Planning Services Manager responded in the affirmative; stated
the City would require the property owner to put a deed restriction
on the property; the owner would be required to live on the site.
Councilmember Gilmore suggested that the owner- occupancy
requirement be removed.
Councilmembers Matarrese and Tam concurred with Councilmember
Gilmore.
Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether staff would bring back the
ordinance with the owner- occupancy requirement removed, to which
the Planning Services Manager responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Matarrese moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Gilmore seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Mayor Johnson clarified that the motion included removal of the
owner occupied requirement.
The Planning Services Manager stated Standard T would be removed.
(09 -099) Introduction of Ordinance Amending Various Sections of the
Alameda Municipal Code Contained in Chapter II Article I Pertaining
to City Council Meetings, Chapter II Article II Pertaining to the
Historical Advisory Board, and Amending Ordinance No. 1082 As
Amended by Ordinance No. 2497 Pertaining to an Existing Pension
Fund. Introduced.
Councilmember Gilmore moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Matarrese seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 16
March 3, 2009
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON- AGENDA
None.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
None.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATION
(09 -100) Consideration of Mayor's nomination for appointment to the
Social Service Human Relations Board.
Mayor Johnson nominated Ardella Dailey for appointment to the
Social Services Human Relations Board.
ADJOUNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Johnson adjourned the
meeting at 11:47 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Brown
Act.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 17
March 3, 2009