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1996-04-02 MinutesMINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL APRIL 2, 1996 The meeting convened at 6:45 p.m. with President Appezzato presiding. ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Councilmembers Arnerich, DeWitt, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 5. ABSENT: None. 3-A (96-163) Adjournment to Closed Session to consider: CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION (54956.9) Name of Case: Estate of Audrey Gibson 4. Announcement of Action Taken in Closed Session: Following the Closed Session, the Special Meeting reconvened and President Appezzato announced that Council discussed the lawsuit and gave instructions to the City Attorney. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m. Respectfully submitted, az1X-r DIANE B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in advance in accordance with the Brown Act. Special Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL APRIL 2, 1996 The meeting convened at 6:50 p.m. with President Appezzato presiding. ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Councilmembers Arnerich, DeWitt, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 5. ABSENT: None. 3-A (96-164) Adjournment to Closed Session to consider: CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR Agency Negotiator: Personnel Director and Austris Rungis Employee Organizations (s) : International Association of Firefighters, Local #689 - IAFF. 4. Announcement of Action Taken in Closed Session: Following the Closed Session, the Special Meeting reconvened and President Appezzato announced that Council gave instructions to City negotiators. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at 7:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, DIANE B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in advance in accordance with the Brown Act. Special Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ALAMEDA CITY COUNCIL APRIL 2, 1996 The meeting convened at 7:45 p.m., with Mayor Appezzato presiding. Councilmember DeWitt led the Pledge of Allegiance. Reverend Jack Buckley, First Presbyterian Church, gave the invocation. ROLL CALL Present: Councilmembers Arnerich, DeWitt, Lucas, Mannix and Mayor Appezzato - 5. Absent: None. PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY None. CONSENT CALENDAR President Appezzato stated that the following items were pulled for discussion: 4-B (96-170) [Report from Public Works Director recommending award of contract to D.H.R. Construction in the amount of $179,087.04 for Concrete Cart Path Installation on the Jack Clark Course at the Chuck Corica Golf Complex, No. P.W. 02-96-02]; 4-D (96-171) [Report from Community Development Director regarding waiver of City fees for Habitat for Humanity's Project at 1109 Buena Vista Avenue]; 4-E (96-172) [Report from Public Works Director recommending appropriation of additional funds to Capital Improvement Project #94-01 for Code enforcement activities]; 4-F (96-173) [Report from Executive Director of the Housing Authority regarding waiver of payment in lieu of taxes for Housing Authority for Fiscal Year 1996-1997]; 4-G (96-174) [Resolution No. 12755 Supporting Special Legislation for Use of Redevelopment Authority at NAS Alameda (Assembly Bill 3129-Lee)]; 4-1 (96-175) [Resolution No. 12756 Authorizing Amendment No. 1 to Trust Indenture and Related Financing Documents ($2,250,000 City of Alameda Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, Park Street Landing Project, Series 1986-A)]; and 4-K (96-176) [Introduction of Ordinance Approving and Authorizing the Execution of a Sublease Agreement between the Alameda Reuse and Redevelopment Authority, as Sublessor of the United States of America Acting Through the Department of Navy, and the City of Alameda, as Sublessee, for Use of Approximately 6.5 Acres at the Naval Air Station (Atlantic Avenue and Main Street) as a Soccer Field with related Parking.] Councilmember Lucas moved approval of the remainder of the Consent Calendar. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk. 4-A. (*96-165) Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings of March 19, 1996. Approved. 4-B. See Paragraph (96-170). 4-C. (*96-166) Report from the Public Works Director recommending an Extension of Time of Two Years in Which to Complete the Improvements for Tract 6226 (Harbor Bay Isle Village V, Headlands). Accepted. 4-D. See Paragraph (96-171). 4-E. See Paragraph (96-172). 4-F. See Paragraph (96-173). 4-G. See Paragraph (96-174). 4-H. (*96-167) Resolution No. 12755 "Appointing an Engineer and an Attorney for Island City Landscaping and Lighting District 84-2." Adopted. 4-1. See Paragraph (96-175). 4-J. (*96-168) Resolution No. 12754 "Approving the Provision of Additional Services for City of Alameda Industrial Development Revenue Bonds" (Park Street Landing Project). Adopted. 4-K. See Paragraph (96-176). 4-L. (*96-169) Bills for ratification. Ratified. 4-B. (96-170 ) Report from the Public Works Director recommending Award of Contract to D.H.R. Construction in the Amount of $179,087.04 for Concrete Cart Path Installation on the Jack Clark Course at the Chuck Corica Golf Complex, No. P.W. 02-96- 02. Accepted. The City Manager reported that a protest had been filed by a bidder. The Public Works Director stated that the protest was filed by Roquemore Engineering; that on the day of the bid, the City attempted to contact all bidders by telephone and fax, in order to clarify specifications; that the Assistant City Attorney advised staff that the right attempts were made to contact all parties; and that staff's recommendation was to reject the protest and award the contract to D.H.R. Construction. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 2 In response to President Appezzato, the Public Works Director reported that everyone received a fax regarding the item in question. Councilman Arnerich moved that the protest contract awarded to D.H.R. Construction. Councilmember Lucas second the motion, unanimous voice vote - 5. be rejected, and which carried by 4-D. (96-171) Report from the Community Development Director Regarding Waiver of City fees for Habitat for Humanity's Project at 1109 Buena Vista Avenue. Accepted . Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, stated that the City Council should encourage organizations like Habitat for Humanity. Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the report and recommendation. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 4-E. (96-172) Report from the Public Works Director recommending appropriation of Additional Funds to Capital Improvement Project #94-01 for Code Enforcement Activities. Accepted. Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, encouraged citizens to report situations requiring Code enforcement. Pamela Thompson, Alameda, stated that a fee waiver should be considered for Mr. Haun, property owner; that there was no way he could pay off the assessments [for nuisance abatement]; and the community should stand behind Mr. Haun. Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the report and recommendation. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 4-F. (96-173) Report frorkthe Executive Director of the Housing Authority regarding waiver of payment in lieu of taxes for Housing Authority for Fiscal Year 1996-1997. Accepted. William McCall, former Alameda Mayor, requested staff to explain the waiver of payment in lieu of taxes. The City Manager stated that staff recommends that the Housing Authority contract with the City for police services in the amount of $150,000; that it was believed to be a better use of Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 3 the Housing Authority's funds; and that the ratio was versus $7,895, if PILOT was not waived by the City. Mr. McCall stated that he still did not like it; years ago it was not necessary. $150,000 and that Vice Mayor Mannix moved acceptance of the report and recommendation. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 4-G. (96-174) Resolution No. 12755 "Supporting Special Legislation for Use of Redevelopment Authority at NAS Alameda" (Assembly Bill 3129 - Lee). (Alameda Reuse and Redevelopment Authority). Adopted. Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, spoke in support of the Assembly Bill. Tony Daysog, Alameda, stated that if the Bill passed, hardly any property taxes would go into the General Fund; and that the Bill required modifications. The City Manager stated that the legislation would provide property taxes to the Redevelopment Agency; that the Redevelopment Agency was the City Council also; the purpose for monies going to the Agency would be for infrastructure improvements, normally paid from the General Fund; that he believed the City would be reimbursed from various sources for services usually supported by property taxes; and that the Bill was beneficial to the City, and urged support. In response to Councilmember DeWitt's inquiry, the City Manager stated that there could be property sales in the future in the redevelopment area; and that said sales would generate property taxes for the Redevelopment Agency. Councilmember DeWitt explained the purpose for the redevelopment process, and stated that the citizens of Alameda would benefit by it. President Appezzato stated that Marina Village was a successful redevelopment zone under similar legislation, and Marina Village has been a national model. William McCall, Alameda, stated that he was against redevelopment on Park Street; that people had voted against it; and inquired what the difference was between Redevelopment and the Federal Redevelopment Act. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 4 %4 7 The City Manager commented that the City Charter states that there shall be no redevelopment in the City pursuant to the use of State or federal funds; that at one time, the City was considering the use of both Redevelopment and Urban Development funds, which citizens opposed; and that this matter involved only Redevelopment funding. Councilmember Lucas moved adoption of the Resolution. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 4-1. (96-175) Resolution No. 12756 "Authorizing Amendment No. 1 to Trust Indenture and Related Financing Documents" ($2,250,000 City of Alameda Industrial Development Revenue Bonds, Park Street Landing Project, Series 1986-A). Adopted. William McCall, Alameda, inquired about bond-related interest rates. The City Manager explained that the existing Revenue Bonds were sold in 1986; that the Bonds were not being refinanced; and he stated that the interest rates would be provided to Mr. McCall. Councilman Arnerich stated that the transfer of responsibility would not affect security. Councilmember Lucas stated that Park Street Landing did not turn out to be as attractive as it was represented to the City; and that she would like to know from the developer what plans there were for improvements. Monroe Wingate, developer, Park Street Landing, stated that rental rates were attractive, project went through design review process; landscaping won State award; and that prior to his development, the area was an eyesore. Vice Mayor Mannix moved adoption of the resolution. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 4-K. (96-176) Introduction of Ordinance Approving and Authorizing the Execution of a Sublease Agreement between the Alameda Reuse and Redevelopment Authority, as Sublessor of the United States of America Acting Through the Department of Navy, and the City of Alameda, as Sublessee, for Use of Approximately 6.5 Acres at the Naval Air Station (Atlantic Avenue and Main Street) as a Soccer Field with Related Parking. Introduced. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 5 Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, urged Council to support the ordinance. William McCall, Alameda, stated that he was not opposed to soccer; opposed to taking land off the tax rolls; that surplus land should be sold; questioned why the School District could not use Thompson Field; the Coast Guard should remain; and the Base Reuse Advisory Group dissolved. Roberto Codigiani, Alameda Soccer Club, stated that more than 500 children would use the fields year-round; and he urged Council to support the ordinance. Councilmember Lucas moved introduction of the ordinance. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated that 6.5 acres for the soccer field was a very small price to pay for the youth of our community. Councilmember DeWitt stated that the land would not be permanently taken off the rolls; and that it would be retained through a sublease to allow for interim reuse for five years. On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 5. REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS 5-A. (96-177) Report from the Community Development Director Regarding Continued Participation in the Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. Mr. Steven Schwartzberg, Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, Oakland, thanked Councilman Arnerich for a stellar job as City's representative on the Joint Powers Authority Board; he explained the Program's funding, services, costs, and goals for the City of Alameda; and he thanked the City's staff for allowing the County to meet its goals. Lynne Fitzsimmons, President, Park Street Business Association, thanked the County for attending their promotions. Peter Fletcher, Alameda Association of Realtors, spoke in support of the Program, and read a letter from the Board to Mr. Schwartzberg expressing their appreciation. Don Roberts, Alameda, stated that the Program takes money from people on an arbitrary determination; that he does not believe Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 6 it was the responsibility of the homeowner to pay for the Program; and questioned certain figures in the report. Mr. Schwartzberg explained prevention and abatement procedures, and financing mechanisms. President Appezzato requested Mr. Schwartzberg, in response to certain comments by Don Roberts, to provide the City Manager with his [Schwartzberg's] salary and an explanation regarding an $18,000 discrepancy in the assessment figures for Alameda. Larry Schultz, Alameda, spoke in favor of the Program. Miriam Delagrange, Alameda, spoke in favor of the Program. Councilman Arnerich stated that he acquired an excellent film from KTVU on the matter; and he had requested that the film be shown tonight. Following the film presentation, Councilmember Lucas stated that she was not going to support the Program, that educating the public on lead poisoning prevention should be done at the national level, and that Alameda County homeowners should not be burdened with the problem. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that the Program was valuable and for the common good of the County; and he moved acceptance of the staff's recommendation. [that the City Council continue participation in the Alameda County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program]. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated that the program should continue for the health and welfare of the community. The motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, DeWitt, Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Absent - None. Abstentions - None. * * * Council recessed and reconvened to consider Item No. 5-B. * * * 5-B. (96-178) Report from Assistant City Manager on options for disposition or non-interactive use of the Washington Park Locomotive. Regular Meeting, Mame. City Council April 2, 1996 7 Gary McAfee, Alameda, stated that the Locomotive was a very valuable artifact, and discussed locating a world class rail museum at the Base. Allen Derr, Alameda, stated that he was one hundred percent in favor of disposing of the Locomotive; that he was denied plans for the Locomotive at a March, 1996 Recreation Commission meeting; and later denied Minutes and Audio Tapes, and questioned why. President Appezzato stated that he was sure the City Manager would look into the matter. Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the staff recommendation [that Council authorize staff to negotiate, within the options listed, for the removal of the Locomotive at Washington Park). Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated that the Locomotive was a piece of history and should be preserved; that he would like information on fencing costs, bids, and problems with the Locomotive, and that he was not ready to give it up, nor vote on the matter tonight. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that the Locomotive engine was a historical item; that he hoped it could be preserved for posterity; and that railroad cars and equipment belonged in railroad parks and properly cared for and maintained. Councilman Arnerich agreed. Councilmember DeWitt stated that he would like to see monies from the Locomotive go to Recreation and Parks and used for children. At the request of President Appezzato, the City Attorney explained the liability issue. President Appezzato suggested that staff explore the Golden Gate Railroad option. Councilman Arnerich stated that Sierra Pacific Coast Northern should be requested to state what they plan to do with the Locomotive engine; that Schnitzer Steel Co. should be eliminated completely from consideration; if any monies are received from disposing of it, the funds go to Recreation; and that he still would like the matter to come back to Council, including answers to his questions and concerns. Regular Meeting, Alnnu-cla City Council April 2, 1996 8 President Appezzato stated that part of the staff's recommendation, moved by Councilmember Lucas, was that the City Manager bring back the final determination. On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 5-C. (96-179) Report from the Planning Director concerning the Planning Board's recommendation regarding an Appeal Fee Waiver Request from Shirley Cummins. Shirley Cummins stated that she wanted the City Council to abolish Appeal fees; and that $251 to appear before a Planning Board on an Appeal was a detriment to the whole City's ability to complain about an issue. Councilmember Lucas stated that she supported the fee waiver, and so moved. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that the Planning Board recommended Council to consider modification of the fee waiver process; Ms. Cummins comments were well taken; and that he hoped the motion contained that part of the recommendation as well. Councilmember Lucas stated that she would like to split the recommendation into two motions. Councilmember Lucas moved to grant the fee waiver for Ms. Cummins. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated that government fees have been criminal, especially for people on fixed incomes or out of work; and that he hoped Council would take the matter of fees seriously and revamp them. On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. - Vice Mayor Mannix moved that consideration be given forthright that Council would modify the fee waiver process and/or findings, basically in the form of simplifying the process; and consideration given to the amount charged for fees. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 9 In response to inquiry from Councilmember Lucas, the City Manager explained the reason why fee waivers were brought to the City Council. Councilmember Lucas suggested that consideration be given to modifying the process for low-income citizens. On call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 5-D. (96-180) Written Communication from Wayne T. Pearce, Alameda, suggesting a music center near Park Street or at the Naval Air Station. Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, stated that the proposal was a good one; that rock and western music should be excluded; and that a committee should be formed to report on the pros and cons of a music center. Councilmember Lucas stated that she would like to remind everyone that Alameda has a great cultural institution, the Altarena Theater; and that she understood there was a proposal for civic light opera in the High School Auditorium; and moved acceptance of the written communication. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 5-E. (96-181) Written Communication from Don Bergen, Alameda, requesting consideration of a YMCA branch in Alameda. Don Bergen, Alameda, stated that a couple of months ago Councilmember DeWitt requested the City Manager to look for money for a teen center; that he [Bergen] contacted the YMCA; that he believed a branch in Alameda would serve younger and older people; and that he understood the Mayor contacted the YMCA. President Appezzato reported that the YMCA worked with the City's Housing Authority; that the YMCA had problems like everyone else raising money to perform their functions; that the City and School Board has discussed, at length, the potential of a teen center; and that the head of the Recreation and Parks Department was spearheading the effort. Councilmember DeWitt stated that he has been very interested in providing some type of teen center; that costs had been discussed with the YMCA director; that a step be taken towards meeting and discussing the possibilities of developing some Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 10 type of local teen center; that Vice Mayor Mannix had a survey on what teens would like; wants to move forward with the Chamber of Commerce, and others; and, he stated for the record, "I do not ever remember asking the City Manager to finance a teen center." President Appezzato stated that Council would do its best to provide a proposal in conjunction with local non-profit agencies and the School District; and at the least cost. Councilman Arnerich stated that the idea of a teen center was a wonderful one. The YMCA was a Christian organization, and the matter of funding should be addressed in a written opinion by the City Attorney. The City Attorney stated that the City of Alameda was precluded from participating in any religious organization; that the City of Alameda could not participate in any funding of any organization that would promote religious ideals; however, the City could fund completely objective non- religious activities, such as a day care center, and provide strict scrutiny. Councilman Arnerich stated that he hoped a written opinion would be provided to the Council, that a teen center was needed, and proposal should be explored in every possible manner. Councilmember Lucas moved that the written communication be accepted. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 5-F. (96-182) Written Communication from the City of Berkeley urging all corridor cities to oppose AB 638 (Concealed Weapons Bill). William McClure, Alameda, discussed options available to the City Council, including exploring the adoption of an ordinance similar to Kennesaw, Georgia's 1988 ordinance on possession of firearms within city limits. Earl Peacock, Alameda, Member of the National Rifle Association, requested that the City Council vote against the City of Berkeley's request; explained his position; and stated that citizens should be given an opportunity to carry a weapon. Don Bergen, Alameda, stated that law abiding citizens who believed they would be safer if they carried a weapon, should be allowed to do so. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 11 Andrew McCormack, Alameda, stated that people have the right to protect themselves against the [criminal] elements. Susan McCormack, Alameda, stated that citizens have a right to protect themselves. Richard Neveln, former Navy Base worker and Weapons Design Engineer, stated that the City Council should get detailed statistics before responding to Berkeley's request; Council should find out what happens when people are able to protect themselves before emergency services arrive; and encouraged education on the matter. David Plummer, Alameda, stated that Florida tourists were targeted by criminals because tourists are generally unarmed; that 19 states have adopted the shall carry law; that 28 states have adopted the shall carry law and improved conceal carry laws; and that he hoped the Council would oppose Berkeley's position. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that the issue was an emotional one; that he was concerned about politicians asking Councilmembers to speak for the all of the citizens of Alameda; that if the matter was to be decided at the State level, he did not believe Council should state, on behalf of all of the residents, opposition [to AB -638]; if anyone felt strongly about the matter, State Senator Kopp should be contacted; that the solution to the crime problem was not whether people had guns; that education, jobs, hope and human dignity should be addressed to solve crime problems; and that AB 638 was poorly written. Councilmember Lucas stated that the Vice Mayor had very good points; that she also appreciated that the Chief of Police brought the matter to Council; that AB 638 was opposed by the California Police Chiefs' Association, California Sheriffs' Association, Attorney General, California District Attorneys' Association, and the California Peace Officers' Association; and moved that Council support the City of Berkeley's resolution which opposes AB 638. Councilmember DeWitt seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated that he believed in the Constitution and the right to bear arms; that the issue should be left to Sacramento which would eventually place the matter on the State ballot; and that Council should acknowledge the letter from Berkeley, but not support it. President Appezzato stated that he would support the motion; that he has great respect for the Chief of Police who brought Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 12 the matter to Council; and that he would support the law enforcement people charged with the responsibility of protection and safety. Councilmember DeWitt stated that everyone had the right to protect themselves; the idea, however, that everyone could carry a weapon was a lunatic-type idea; that an orderly society should not have to be armed; there were individuals not capable of handling weapons; and that he supports the position of the Chief of Police. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that his point was AB 638 was an emotional issue; that he was not comfortable with Council taking a stance as representatives of all the people of Alameda; and he stated, for the record: "I am very supportive of my fellow officers; I think that Alameda has an excellent Chief of Police who is doing a very positive thing with what he has brought before us here; and because I do not agree with him, does not mean I do not support him." On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers DeWitt, Lucas and President Appezzato - 3. Noes: Councilman Arnerich and Vice Mayor Mannix - 2. Absent - None. Abstentions - None. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (Public Comment) 6-A. (96-183) Don Roberts, Alameda, stated that Mr. Bruce Reeves was quoted in the Alameda edition of the Oakland Tribune that the opponents to the [March 26, 1996] Ballot Measure C had been asked to come up with positive proposals in the past, but had not done so; Mr. Reeves was incorrect; that he [Roberts], at a December, 1995, Council Meeting, urged Council to have one measure for a new library, and another measure for rehabilitating the Carnegie for continued use as the main library; and that he was confident the voters would have overwhelmingly voted to spend 3.5 million dollars to rehabilitate the Carnegie for continued use as the main library. 6-B. (96-184) Don Roberts, Alameda, requested that Council direct the City Manager to place the proposed diagonal parking on Westline Drive, and the no-right-turn sign on Broadway Avenue and Bayview Drive matters [on the agenda] as action items at the next Council Meeting. 6-C. (96-185) Susan McCormack, Alameda, requested clarification on the McCormacks' letter sent to the City Council on March 21, 1996; stated that a letter was received from the Assistant City Manager stating the correspondence would not be agendized Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 13 C\ C unless a member of the Council requested it; and inquired whether any member of the Council could place the communication on the agenda. In response to Mayor Appezzato's inquiry, Ms. McCormack stated that she was requesting a waiver of the Central Permits Office fees. The City Manager stated that Council voted to waive every fee, except the building permit fee. President Appezzato requested that Council be provided with the correspondence again; stated Council took action not to waive the building permit fee; however, if a discrepancy should be discovered, the issue could be reagendized. Councilman Arnerich stated that Council should be provided with the letter and total fees; if a review should be necessary, the matter would be reconsidered. 6-D. (96-186) Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, stated that the business associations should be encouraged to welcome the Naval and Marine Corp Reserve; and that available Alameda real estate should be put on the Internet. 6-E. (96-187) Don Bergen, Alameda, discussed the need for warning signs prohibiting signs and graffiti on street lights, crossing lights, transformers, etc.; and consideration of a resolution strengthening existing laws. [Submitted letter to City Clerk] 6-F. (96-188) William McClure, Alameda, inquired whether certain individuals in the City of Alameda have concealed weapon permits; and if so, was it public record. The Mayor suggested that Mr. McClure meet with the City Attorney. 6-G. (96-189) Earl Peacock, Alameda, stated that the McCormacks have suffered considerable damages, due to action by City staff directing that a hole be cut into the roof during the rainy season; that it would be only prudent for the City to consider the additional $3,000 in fees as a possible waiver on that basis. The Mayor stated that Council would review the recent correspondence from the McCormacks; and that his recollection was the City Council did make a final decision. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 14 7. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (Communications from Council) 7-A. (96-195) (item taken out of order; see 7-G) 7-B. (96-190) Mayor Appezzato requested a financial report on the LinOaks and the Carnegie buildings, including purchase price for the LinOaks Motel, outstanding loans, and current fair market value; he stated there were comments that the City should sell the LinOaks and use the proceeds to renovate the Carnegie building; and comments about a senior center [at the LinOaks], etc. The Mayor further stated that all the options should be considered and a staff recommendation provided for the future of the LinOaks. Mayor Appezzato requested a cost estimate on bringing the Carnegie building up to URN standards and for interior work. He stated that the City must maintain its library system; and he would like various options for both the LinOaks and Carnegie buildings, so Council could proceed with public discussion on their futures. 7-C. (96-191) Councilman Arnerich requested a report on the Bayview Drive right-turn issue. He stated that if the Traffic Advisory Committee's action was to be implemented for six months, a "no-right-turn," with hours sign should be placed next to the stop sign, not in front of it 7-D. (96-192) Vice Mayor Mannix stated that he continues to have some concerns over boards and commissions, including viability of some and the cost to the City; that a staff report should be provided, when convenient; report should include recommendations and suggestions on how to define the role or direction of Charter boards; that other boards and commissions should be evaluated for their viability, and that consideration should be given to whether certain boards and commissions need restructuring, redirection or elimination. 7-E. (96-193) Karin Lucas announced that the Alameda Association of Realtors passed a resolution today; the resolution refers to home ownership ratio; that the ratio in Alameda was comparatively low, less than 50% of the residents own homes; that the City of Hayward set a goal of 70% home ownership for their residents; the President set a goal of 67% for the country; and she would like a staff report on how Alameda can increase home ownership ratio, including home ownership for low- and very low-income people. 7-F. (96-194) Councilmember Lucas stated that the San Francisco Chronicle Newspaper reported that Bill Wong, a leading Asian journalist in the country, was rather ruthlessly fired; and Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 15 that he worked for the Oakland Tribune for over seventeen years. Councilmember Lucas further stated that Alameda was a culturally diverse community with a high percentage of Asians, and its local newspaper saw fit to fire one of the leading Asian journalists; and she was very upset. 7-G. (96-195) Reconsideration of Council Workshop on Proclamations (Councilmember Lucas). Councilmember Lucas stated that she was raising the issue because she understood that Council was not that clear on what the workshop on proclamations would accomplish; and that she was satisfied with the way that the Mayor now issued proclamations. Mayor Appezzato stated that he would not mind a sub-committee; that he did not want to participate because the Charter was very clear that the Mayor was the ceremonial head of the City, and if a sub-committee would like to move forward on the matter, he would not have a problem with it Councilman Arnerich stated that he agreed with Councilmember Lucas that it [process] has held well for many decades, and the he did not see any reason for a subcommittee or any other group. Councilmember DeWitt stated that he would appreciate this project being completed; that Council needs to answer some questions on procedures with regards to issuance of proclamations; if a sub-committee addresses the matter, that would be good, and if one or two Councilmembers could bring back some recommendations, he would appreciate it Vice Mayor Mannix stated that his position was that Council voted on the issue two meetings ago, decided to do something, and Council was revisiting it, if Councilmember DeWitt's suggestion was the way to go, that was amenable; and that he still believed the process needed to be defined. Mayor Appezzato stated that what Council voted on, was not what he understood, he was concerned, he did not vote to have the whole Council sit as a committee to review the issue, and that he would not mind Councilmember DeWitt and Vice Mayor Mannix acting as a two-member sub-committee and address issue. Councilmember DeWitt thanked the Mayor. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that the meetings would be public. Regular MerAing, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 16 8. ADJOURNMENT 8-A. (96-196) President Appezzato adjourned the meeting at 11:21 p.m. * * * ectfully submitted 066/4 ' D1 1E B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in advance in accordance with the Brown Act. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council April 2, 1996 17