1994-04-05 Regular CC MinutesMINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF THE ALAMEDA CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 5. 1994
The meeting convened at 7:50 p.m. (following the Housing Authority
Board of Commissioners Quarterly Meeting) with President Withrow
presiding. Vice Mayor Roth led the Pledge of Allegiance and
Reverend Jack Buckley, First Presbyterian Church, gave the
invocation.
ROLL CALL -
Present: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich,
Lucas, Roth and President Withrow - 5.
Absent: None.
PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
94-160 Proclamation Declaring April 22, 1994, as Earth Day 1994.
Mayor Withrow read the proclamation.
94-161 Proclamation Declaring the Month of April, 1994, as
California Earthquake Preparedness Month.
Mayor Withrow read the proclamation.
Councilman Arnerich stated he would like staff to follow up on an
article on disaster preparedness in Sunday's examiner by Admiral
Bitoff, Director of Earthquake and Disaster Preparedness, City and
County of San Francisco.
94-162 Proclamation Declaring the Month of April, 1994, as Fair
Housing Month.
Mayor Withrow read the proclamation and presented it to Jeanette
David.
Ms. David, Sentinel Fair Housing, thanked Council for acknowledging
the important matter.
CONSENT CALENDAR
President Withrow announced that, at the request of citizens and a
Councilmember, reports concerning Maintenance Bond for Costa Brava
(94-172); plans and specs for Bicycle Path (94-173); East End Ferry
Vessel Commissioning Ceremony (94-174); and Amendment to HOME
Funded Contract with ALL Housing, Inc. (94-175); were removed from
the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Councilmember Lucas stated she will abstain on the Bills for
ratification (*94-171) as she has a conflict of interest on one
bill.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Vice Mayor Roth moved the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5. [With the exception of one abstention on
(*94-171).]
Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk.
*94-163 Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of March 15, 1994.
Approved.
*94-164 Report from Public Works Director recommending Council
Authorize Amendment to extend term of service funding and Equipment
Lease Agreements between City of Alameda and Alameda-Contra Costa
Transit District, Alameda Real Estate Investments (AREI), and
Harbor Bay Business Park Association. Accepted.
*94-165 Report from the Fire Chief recommending Council direct
staff to request that the State Fire Marshal adopt Fire and Panic
Building Standards for Single-Family Dwellings. Accepted.
*94-166 Resolution No. 12509 "Authorizing Staff to Apply for
Environmental Mitigation Program Grant for the Doolittle
Pedestrian/Bike Path Enhancement Project (Landscaping and
Recreational Accessibility Landings) and Affirming the City's
Authority to Carry out said Project." Adopted.
*94-167 Resolution No. 12510 "Appointing an Engineer and an
Attorney for Island City Landscaping and Lighting Assessment
District 84-2." Adopted.
*94-168 Resolution No. 12511 "Resolution of Appreciation to
the Volunteers for the City of Alameda." Adopted.
*94-169 Resolution No. 12512 "Authorizing the Filing of a
Claim with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and the
Alameda County Board of Supervisors for Allocation of
Transportation Development Act, Article 4.5, and Alameda County
Measure B Funds for Fiscal Year 1994-95." Adopted.
*94-170 Written Communication from Chair, Independent Cities
Association, Sherman Oaks, California, urging the City to oppose
AB3156 (Tucker) and AB3721 (Tucker) which threatens the rights of
cities to make decisions relating to city services, e.g. emergency
ambulance services. Accepted.
*94-171 Bills, certified by the City Manager to be true and
correct, were ratified in the amount of $4,038,296.67.
[Councilmember Lucas abstained.]
94-172 Report from Public Works Director recommending release of
the Maintenance Bond for Tracts 4024, 4025, and 4026 (Costa Brava,
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Harbor Bay Isle).
Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, inquired whether the Public Works
Director had obtained a communication from the Homeowners'
Associations concerning the contractor's work.
The Public Works Director responded that staff spoke to the
Associations, and his understanding is that nothing extra needed to
be done.
Councilmember Appezzato moved that the City get written
communication acknowledging the Homeowners' Associations
[satisfaction], and the matter be placed back on the agenda.
Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion.
The City Manager noted that Council may hold the matter off to get
Homeowners Associations' concurrence, but Council does not need it.
Councilman Arnerich commented that the City Manager is correct the
City has the authority, but he thinks it is better to tie it up
[with the Associations' concurrence].
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
94-173 Report from Public Works Director recommending adoption
of Plans and Specifications and Calling for Bids for Mariner Square
Drive Bicycle Path, Tynan Avenue to Marina Village Parkway, No.
P.W. 03-94-03.
Don Bergen, Alameda, stated funds could be better spent, e.g. for
a fire truck or an extra policeman on the beat.
The City Manager explained funds from this development cannot be
used for anything other than mitigating the impacts of this
development on the City.
The Public Works Director noted Mr. Bergen spoke of figures for
another project: the Doolittle Landfill Pathway Project.
Councilmember Lucas moved approval of recommendation. Vice Mayor
Roth seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
94-174 Report from Public Works Director recommending approval
of the East End Ferry Vessel Commissioning Ceremony.
Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, stated ferry riders should be invited to
the Ceremony.
Mayor Withrow stated that he looks forward to having all ferry
riders attend.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Don Bergen, Alameda, stated that he would prefer funds for the
event be saved.
Vice Mayor Roth stated it is important that the ferry riders and
UCSF be invited to participate.
President Withrow commented that the ferry boat was paid for by
State transportation funds basically, and provided debt-free to the
City.
Vice Mayor Roth moved the recommendation. Councilmember Lucas
seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
94-175 Report from Community Development Director recommending
Amendment to HOME Funded Contract with ALL Housing, Inc. for
Purchase of 461 Haight Street.
Councilmember Lucas stated that she wants to be sure the Community
Development Director makes it clear to the organization that the
City has community maintenance standards.
The Community Development Director noted landscape requirements
have been included in the agreements with the agency.
Susan Garbuio, Bay Area Community Services, stated that the agency
knows they have maintenance agreements; it was added to their
contract the last time they were before Council; and they take
great pride in their properties.
Councilmember Lucas moved the recommendation. Councilman Arnerich
seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
AGENDA ITEMS
94-176 Written Communication from Dora N. Calhoun, Alameda,
requesting that "crematorium" be deleted as a permitted use in a C-
2 zone; and consideration of rezoning a portion of Lincoln Avenue
from C-2 to R-5. (Councilmember Lucas)
Mayor Withrow inquired how many persons were present in the
audience concerning Written Communication regarding a proposed
crematorium; and noted that many hands were raised; he stated that
he, Mr. Carpenter of Direct Funeral Service, and the Planning Board
President met in his office to discuss the issue; Mr. Carpenter was
agreeable to consider proposals; he assured Mr. Carpenter of
assistance in finding an appropriate industrial location; written
withdrawals of the design review application by Mr. Carpenter, and
property owners' consent to application by Marietta Hanan, have
been made; therefore, there is no longer an issue as it relates to
that property; and inquired if persons still wanted to address the
item. A number of persons indicated they did.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
0
Councilmember Appezzato moved the item be taken out of order.
Mayor Withrow stated some persons at home may be waiting for the
item to be addressed later in the evening.
Councilman Arnerich suggested the speakers be heard, and the matter
held open in case speakers arrived later. The City Attorney
responded that could legally be done.
Al Carpenter stated close to 50% of Alamedans choose cremation;
cremation is done in Oakland, Emeryville and Richmond, and it is
time for Alameda to have a crematorium and a cemetery.
Councilmember Appezzato stated he believes the people empathize but
do not want a crematorium in a residential area; and thanked Mr.
Carpenter for his cooperation.
Councilman Arnerich applauded Mr. Carpenter's withdrawal when he
learned the residents were concerned; and stated he personally
would not want a crematorium near his residence.
Mayor Withrow thanked Mr. Carpenter for pulling the application,
and stated the City will help him find an appropriate area.
David Brownson, Alameda, stated neighbors have been requesting, and
are still requesting, that the neighborhood be residential.
Amy Wheat, Alameda, thanked property owners for withdrawing,
commended neighborhood committee's quick action to oppose matter;
stated risks are involved when crematorium is close to residences;
regulations should be passed to conform to General Plan; and
requested Council rezone property, eliminate crematoriums as
permitted use of C-2 property, or within City limits.
Gene Calhoun, Alameda, stated rezoning should take place in
accordance with General Plan; 16 crematoriums exist within a ten
mile radius of Alameda; and certain hazards exist when crematoriums
are in residential neighborhoods.
Councilmember Lucas thanked Mr. Calhoun and other committee members
for educating themselves in the matter and an impressive democratic
approach. Councilmember Appezzato concurred.
Marva Lyons, Alameda, stated she is concerned, not only for the
neighborhood but the entire City; noted the affect the presence of
crematoriums has on day care centers and schools.
Tim Rumberger, attorney representing property owners, stated the
Hanans do not object to downzoning of their property if they are
allowed to continue with their current preexisting non-conforming
use, a business they have had over a decade.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Si
Michael McDonald, Alameda, stated no one knew until the 23rd of
March about the crematorium; thanked Council; and stated all have
learned from the experience.
Councilmember Appezzato stated he has no reason to not support
the rezoning from C-2 to medium density residential; Council must
continue to protect the quality of life in Alameda; and he will
support the rezoning of the neighborhood and hopes it can be done
this year.
President Withrow stated the matter is an open item and will be
brought up in its agendized timeframe.
[Continued to page following paragraph 94-187.
* * * *
Council recessed and reconvened at 9:05 p.m.
* * * *
94-177 Resolution No. 12513 "Appointing Judy Tam as a Member
of the City Social Service Human Relations Board."
Councilmember Lucas moved appointment. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the
motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
The Deputy City Clerk administered the Oath of Office and presented
certificate of appointment to Judy Tam.
Actions Related to Base Conversion Process.
94-178 Status Briefing to Base Conversion Process.
Project Manager Don Parker commented on the Federal screening
process; stated the only federal agency that has expressed an
intra-government transfer of facilities is the Coast Guard; the
Coast Guard has interest in 482 housing units located in the Navy
Base, the housing office adjacent to the north housing area, and
being a minor tenant to an airfield operation should it remain in
place.
94-179 Authorization to execute Alameda Reuse and Redevelopment
Authority Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement.
Neil P. Sweeney, Alameda, stated UCSF hospital should be within the
NAS property.
Don Roberts, Alameda, stated he is not clear concerning voting
requirement, and that less than a quorum may adjourn, as noted in
the agreement.
The City Attorney explained the nuances of the voting requirement;
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
and stated the quorum requirement is a standard clause so that if
there is not a quorum, the body may take action to adjourn.
Councilman Arnerich, in response to Mr. Sweeney's comments on UCSF
locating at the NAS, inquired of City Manager, who attended
negotiations, if it is correct that UCSF has no desire to go to
NAS.
The City Manager stated that is correct.
Vice Mayor Roth inquired_ if Alameda County has approved the
Agreement, and the City Manager stated the County approved
unanimously. Vice Mayor Roth moved to approve the Joint Powers
Agreement. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion.
Councilmember Lucas inquired where the Authority stands with the
East Bay Conversion and Reinvestment Commission (EBCRC), and if the
EBCRC will continue to exist.
President Withrow stated the Commission will at least complete this
year, is charged with providing a report to the federal government
addressing issues with respect to conversion matter and how we
approached identifying and defining problems in the things that
worked and that did not work; and may continue to meet and discuss
regional issues; commented the reuse authorities for Alameda and
Oakland will be separate and will deal directly with the federal
government concerning funding.
Councilmember Appezzato thanked Mr. Parker for the work he has done
on the Agreement.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
Mayor Withrow thanked Mr. Parker, City Attorney, and all persons
who worked on the agreement; noted President Clinton stated he
wants this NAS conversion to be the model for future conversions in
the country.
94-180 Report by East Bay Municipal Utility District on the
status and future planning of water supplies. (Mayor Withrow)
John Lampe, Director of Water Planning, EBMUD, described EBMUD's
plans for ensuring an adequate supply for high-quality water for
the entire District; submitted to Council a bill insert from
December/January billing period, and a summary of plans, policies
and programs of the District to ensure adequate long-term water
supplies.
President Withrow stated he would like Mr. Lampe to address basic
issue of whether there will be adequate water in the event of a
drought, or in EBMUD plans, will there be a rationing process as in
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
the past.
Mr. Lampe stated that over the long term, the District faces an
inadequate water supply that stems from three primary reasons:
increased economic and population growth within the District area;
more importantly are two other factors: 95% of the water the
District serves its customers comes from Mokelumne River Basin;
East Bay Municipal Utility District is a substantial water rights
holder on the Mokelumne, but many are senior to EBMUD with their
water rights; e.g., Amador and Calaveras are rapidly-developing
counties and in the future will use more of their water supplies;
that will have substantial impact in reducing amount of water here;
a major additional impact on water supply is the need to protect
the natural resource of the Mokelumne River; Bay Delta issues and
the reevaluation and reoperation of the Central Valley project, are
all designed to provide more adequate insurance of protection of
the natural resources in the Delta; additional water will need to
be released into the Mokelumne; and there are three factors: senior
water rights holders, additional releases required to protect a
resource in the Mokelumne and normal customer growth, why we will
have inadequate water supplies; the District commenced the planning
process three years ago and included increased water conservation,
water reclamation, development of conjunctive use program in San
Joaquin County, and a critical assumption that during substantial
droughts, customers will need to accept 25% rationing; and
discussed current rainfall.
President Withrow inquired if that means there are no other water
supplies that are potentially available, to which Mr. Lampe stated
there are supplies available, but also a lot of competition for the
supplies.
Vice Mayor Roth discussed conservation and rationing with Mr.
Lampe, noting the City has cut way back, therefore to reduce
another 25% will be too much.
Mr. Lampe stated EBMUD is acquiring additional storage; nothing
will be mandatory concerning further conservation. The expectation
for rationing would be 25% district-wide; however, he will
communicate Vice Mayor Roth's comments to the [EBMUD] Board.
Councilman Arnerich discussed the building of dams, and the sale of
water rights by individuals and by cities. Councilman Arnerich
stated the Sacramento Bee, last Sunday, had a very interesting
article on the issue.
Mr. Lampe discussed the building of dams under current
environmental rules; some dams will be built but not as many as in
the past.
President Withrow thanked Mr. Lampe for his presentation.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
b
Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, stated he has changed many things to
conserve water, and does not know how he could cut back an
additional 25%; discussed rates and stated EBMUD should have belt-
tightening.
94-181 Recommendation to hold Quarterly Joint Meetings with the
Alameda Unified School District Board of Trustees. (Mayor Withrow)
Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, questioned the need of agendizing a
meeting of two members of the Board and two members of City
Council, under the new amendments to the Brown Act.
The City Attorney stated she cannot answer that by yes or no and
explained the many factors involved; it will depend upon whether a
formal body has been created.
President Withrow stated that the recommendation is his proposal to
the Council that they establish a quarterly meeting, of the full
body of the School Board and full body of the Council, with posted
agenda, and that it start on the first Thursday in the month of
July at 7:30 p.m.
Councilmember Lucas moved the recommendation. Vice Mayor Roth
seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Appezzato stated that he supports
the proposal; however, he would like to get the comments of the
School Board before approving it.
President Withrow stated that he believes the Council needs to
approve the proposal, and then go to the School District and
propose it to them.
Councilman Arnerich stated that he would not be voting for the
proposal; he sees no reason for the full Council to meet with the
full School Board; maybe current monthly meetings could be held
quarterly; and if he had his choice, only the City Manager and
School Superintendent would meet and report back to their
respective boards.
Councilmember Appezzato stated he will abstain until he hears the
comments from the other elected body, the five members of the
Board.
The motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Lucas, Roth and President Withrow - 3. Nayes:
Councilman Arnerich - 1. Abstentions: Councilmember Appezzato - 1.
94-182 Presentation by Alameda City Hall Renovation Design
Consultants regarding proposed seismic retrofit of Alameda City
Hall.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Pam Helmich, principal of the firm of Crosby, Helmich Architects,
stated they are in charge of doing the design and construction
documents for the renovation of City Hall; the structural
consultant of the project is also present, and they will provide
further detail concerning the renovation project and specifically
the structural system. The purpose of the project is to bring the
City Hall building to an appropriate level of construction for
seismic purposes, utilize square footage for better use of City
offices, renew building systems and the life of the building.
In response to Councilman Arnerich, Ms. Helmich stated the life of
the building is estimated at 50 to 75 years because by that time,
the mechanical systems will probably need to be looked at for
updating to the state-of-the-art available.
Responding to Vice Mayor Roth, Ms. Helmich defined bringing the
building up to a suitable safety level as life safety for the
individuals in the building, which is not currently present.
Joe Sutton, Dasse Design, presented a description of the structural
system, showing slides illustrating failure of unreinforced masonry
buildings in earthquakes.
President Withrow discussed the extent of destruction during an
earthquake, and comparison of a retrofitted building to a new
building with Mr. Sutton and Ms. Helmich.
Vice Mayor Roth discussed with Mr. Sutton the relative damage to be
sustained in various magnitude earthquakes depending upon proximity
to the epicenter and other varying factors.
Ms. Helmich stated the building has been identified for retrofit as
other buildings in the City have been identified; and further
answered questions posed by the Vice Mayor, e.g., she stated the
City Hall is a monumental quality building and the question to be
asked is: can a monumental quality building be built for the sum of
$8,000,000, and the answer is no.
The City Manager suggested Council may wish to wait until the bids
are opened next week, and staff come back to Council with the cost
of construction of a new building for comparison purposes.
Councilmember Lucas stated the Los Angeles earthquake showed that
newer buildings are not always safer buildings; and this building
has stood the test of time; buildings built using latest techniques
are not always safer because untested theories are involved.
President Withrow stated he is not critizing redoing the building
but it begs the question among the population of what are we paying
for.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Councilman Arnerich stated, with today's technology, this building
will be a safer place, will be more structurally sound, and
Councilmember Lucas is correct that newness does not make a
building sturdier; also, if the building is not retrofitted, it
would need to be demolished, it cannot be used for anything else;
so he will wait to see the bids.
Mr. Sutton proceeded to show the types of failure that occur in
unreinforced buildings, and several of the more significant
components of the retrofit, explained the procedure that will be
used and the use of epoxy grouting to increase stability; he sees
no reason to believe there will be significant changes in the UMB
ordinance for at least the rest of this decade; the answer to
whether the Northridge earthquake changes anything being proposed
for City Hall, is no.
In response to inquiry by Councilman Arnerich, Mr. Sutton stated
that the integrity of the epoxy is dependent upon being held under
pressure as part of the brick assembly; the foam turning to dust is
a result of epoxy seeping through holes in wall e.g. when conduits
were placed, a flaking of dust will result; the solid product
inserted in the void space remains intact.
In response to Vice Mayor Roth, Mr. Sutton stated the foam has been
used for twenty years, is used for reattachment of marble veneers
in restoration projects; the City of Ventura, 12 years after
installation pulled a sample from their walls and it was intact as
when it was placed.
* * * *
Councilman Arnerich moved to continue the Council Meeting past
11:00 p.m. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
* * * *
Councilman Arnerich moved acceptance of the recommendation as
presented tonight.
President Withrow thanked Mr. Sutton and Ms. Helmich for the
presentation.
Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, stated Oakland is going through
renovation of City Hall and no one can answer to what earthquake
magnitude the building is safe; and an example [Alameda City Hall]
needs to be set for merchants who have been told to retrofit.
David Plummer, Alameda, noted the City of Alameda reveres historic
buildings, and stated to replace this building would cost many
times the amount of retrofitting.
Gayle Johnson, Alameda, stated he is a civil structural engineer,
once worked with Mr. Sutton; testing can be done to address the
aging process of the foam for $10-$20,000 which may take care of
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
some concerns expressed, and Council may wish to consider that.
In response to Councilmember Lucas's question concerning testing,
the Public Works Director stated staff discussed the matter but did
not believe significant evidence of an aging problem existed;
looked into the matter and could not corroborate foam problem.
Councilman Arnerich moved to accept the report. Vice Mayor Roth
seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
94-183 Report from Chair, Economic Development Commission [EDC],
regarding 1994-96 recommendations for follow-up to the Areawide
Strategy Report.
Helen Sause, Chair, EDC, stated the formation of the redevelopment
project addresses the business districts and the waterfront;
addressed funding and the affect of base closure; stated before us
is a reaffirmation of the criticalness of the business district;
long and short term recommendations outline steps to take during
the budget process; basically, the recommendations are intended to
be catalyst projects, e.g., the Alameda Theater, possible move of
Recreation Department to Webster Street; and urged Council's
adoption of recommendations.
In response to Councilmember Appezzato's question if priorities
have been set, and some type of budget or business plan put
together on recommendations, Ms. Sause stated that will be in the
budget process and they will work with City staff.
Vice Mayor Roth stated he does not have a problem with this, but
believes there should be a greater emphasis on Webster Street area,
and other alternatives for catalysts.
Ms. Sause stated perhaps the Housing Authority working in
conjunction with the City might be able to make the Housing
Authority property a catalyst.
Councilmember Lucas stated Webster Street does require more
emphasis; likes the recommendations, and the suggestion of the
Housing Authority property; and looks forward to Ms. Sause's
suggestions for use of the property.
Ms. Sause stated other things can be done including signage that
can make a significant difference in people's perception of Webster
Street.
Vice Mayor Roth moved acceptance of the report. Councilman
Arnerich seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Actions Related to Funding Homeless Programs.
94-184 Report from the Community Development Director regarding
Filipino-American Community Services Agency Proposal for Funding
Midway Shelter through June 30, 1994.
Ben Lopez, Alameda, thanked Council for decision in March to
allocate $10,000 to enable Midway Shelter to keep operating through
April 21; and Midway will close after April 21 if no funds are
available; explained a number of strategies FACSA has considered
and the funds raised; FACSA has decided on a number of fund-raising
activities, e.g. concert, bingo; if the community continues to
support the project, Midway can operate beyond June 30; and
requested citizen donations.
In response to Vice Mayor Roth, Mr. Lopez stated FACSA has applied
for Federal Emergency Shelter Grant [FESG] funding, but does not
know if it will be granted; and noted other proposals submitted and
being worked on.
Don Bergen, Alameda, stated FACSA has a political agenda; he does
not mind helping Alamedans; however, if people are brought into the
City to be helped, when cutbacks are being made; that is asking for
too much. Mr. Bergen submitted a letter by Leo Thomas, Alameda, to
be placed on file.
Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the report. Councilmember
Appezzato seconded the motion.
Vice Mayor Roth stated he believes keeping the shelter open through
June would be wise to provide continuity in order to be eligible
for grant funding; start on next year's budget and if they are not
able to get through next year, the City will have done all it
could.
Councilman Arnerich concurred with Vice Mayor Roth and inquired
what amount is necessary to keep the Shelter going, to which the
City Manager replied $10- to $15,000 would fund the shelter from
mid-May to the end of June, and explained funding for next year,
which will be heard by Council at a later date.
Councilman Arnerich made a substitute motion to place the matter in
the hands of the City Manager to keep funding going through June
and leave it to City Manager to find the funds. Vice Mayor Roth
seconded the motion.
Councilmember Lucas stated she does not want to commit to funding
both shelters as noted in attachment A of [paragraph 94-185]
report; is concerned that Council is committed to funding the
Midway and defunding UPA.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
The City Manager stated that matter [outlined in paragraph 94-185
report] will come back April 19; and Councilman Arnerich's motion
is a separate issue.
Councilmember Lucas stated if Council votes to keep the Shelter
open, it instills an idea that Council is going to keep it open
under all circumstances for the next year also, when the attachment
[See paragraph 94-1851 for next year's funding shows a reduction
for UPA; therefore, she does not want to commit at this time, and
probably [Councilman Arnerich's substitute] motion could be
discussed at the next Council meeting after next year's budget has
been reviewed.
Councilman Arnerich stated it was his intention only for the City
Manager at this time to find the funding to keep the Midway open to
July 1, and if it requires $10-$15,000, we could address the other
issues when we come back on April 19th.
Councilmember Appezzato stated he supports Councilmember Lucas's
original motion. FACSA has not requested additional funds at this
time; the City Manager indicates we have funds through mid-May;
Council can address this at the right time; and he will support the
first motion.
Vice Mayor Roth stated if Council does not keep Midway open until
the end of June, we will be wiping out any chance of the Shelter to
be self-sufficient.
Councilman Arnerich suggested taking action on his substitute
motion; reiterated that the motion is that Council place in the
hands of the City Manager the ability to come up with funding to
keep the Midway Shelter open to the end of June.
The motion failed by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilman
Arnerich and Vice Mayor Roth - 2. Nayes: Councilmembers
Appezzato, Lucas and President Withrow - 3. Absent: None.
The original motion [Councilmember Lucas's] carried by the
following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Lucas, Appezzato and
President Withrow - 3. Nayes: Councilman Arnerich and Vice Mayor
Roth - 2. Absent: None.
94-185 Report from the Community Development Director regarding
Comprehensive Homeless Intervention and Prevention Program Funding
for FY 1994-95.
Dom Dicolen, Alameda, United Pilipinos of Alameda (UPA), stated the
proposed budget for FY 1994-95 reflects UPA funding will be reduced
and during the coming year, if he cannot raise funds, UPA may go as
Midway is going, and they may need to close for two months.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
The Community Development Director stated on April 19th, the
Department will propose allocation of CDBG funds to the Homeless
program, and staff proposal will be to increase the program.
Vice Mayor Roth stated Council is being presented with one
possibility of how the $116,262 is broken out, and must decide how
it is to be broken out, or it will keep coming back to Council.
The Community Development Director explained the background of the
the report.
In response to Councilmember Appezzato, the Community Development
Director explained the Direct Services allocation to the Red Cross
and discussed the possibility of combining services of Midway and
UPA program directors.
Councilmember Lucas stated that she is not sure, with very
different operations of the two shelters, that there could be more
efficiency.
The Community Development Director stated she believes they have
achieved the major reform on consolidated services but continue to
look at ways to cooperate and share resources.
Councilmember Lucas stated she does not want to see reduced funding
for the UPA Shelter.
The Community Development Director stated basically, the proposal
is not appreciably different from total fundraising they achieved
in the past.
Vice Mayor Roth stated if anyone of the groups received a grant,
that could change how the balance of the money is split up.
The Community Development Director agreed and stated that is why
the one figure will be presented for the total program, because
there are many ways the program could be affected.
Councilmember Lucas stated she appreciates the Community
Development Department is trying to do its best; because of the
length of the existence of the UPA Shelter, her priority would be
to fund the UPA; and moved to accept the recommendation. Councilman
Arnerich seconded the motion which carried by the following voice
vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich, Lucas and
President Withrow - 4. Nayes: Vice Mayor Roth - 1. Absent: None.
94-186 Report from Public Works Director regarding request from
Central & Park Associates to install a door which would open onto
City Property in the building located at 2314 Central Avenue. (Vice
Mayor Roth)
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Councilmember Lucas stated she will abstain on this matter because
it is an easement issue.
Martha Beazley, Alameda, stated that the potential renter would
like an emergency exit because they plan to have retail in the
front of the building and clients at the rear and upstairs; a
walkway access is not being requested; the exit would be for
subsequent tenants as well.
In response to Councilman Arnerich, Ms. Beazley stated the door
would be strictly for emergency use; the door would open inward and
would not encroach on City.property.
Charles Price, Alameda, Managing Partner, Central & Park
Associates, stated the tenant rented the space provided they can
have a door.
Don Roberts, Alameda, stated he agrees with Public Works Director
that there is no requirement for the closed door, nor any benefit
to the City; he can see a possibility, if the City at some point
decided it did not want the door opening on its property, City
might at that time be exposed to litigation, similar to that
concerning the Altarena Theater; and suggested Council deny the
request.
Vice Mayor Roth stated he does not see a problem with one more door
opening on the property; the Courtyard has a large gate opening on
the City property, so he does not have a problem with the door; the
only requirement the City should have is signed agreements that if
the City wishes to build a building on the parking lot and wants to
close off that access, it would be acceptable; he is in favor of
the door and moved accordingly.
Councilman Arnerich noted a door is located a short distance from
the proposed door opening into the parking lot with no caveats
attached, and inquired what the difference is; and what value is
lost.
The City Manager stated that each time there is an access from the
building to the parking lot, the possibility of implied consent to
use that, an easement, is created; the Building Code does not allow
for doors on a property line; the value of property would be
lowered because a provision would be necessary for exiting from the
door.
In response to Councilman Arnerich, the City Manager stated the
Public Works Director recommended, if Council agrees to the door,
that an agreement protecting the City's rights should be made.
Mrs. Beazley stated in the letter sent to Councilmembers, the
statement was made that the door would be closed up at their
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
expense if the City, at any time, wants to build a structure on
that property.
Vice Mayor Roth stated if the property owner is agreeable to that,
and the City is agreeable, that is all he believes is needed.
Councilman Arnerich stated the motion should be clarified; he will
support the door but there must be appropriate language in an
agreement to protect the City.
The City Attorney stated that if the Council is inclined to grant
the door, the City's interest should be protected in terms of
subsequent use; there are minimum conditions to consider: (1) a
recorded agreement that would put any subsequent purchasers on
notice, (2) if the City parking lot property's use was to be
changed, the door would need to be removed at the owner's expense,
and (3) the agreement would be binding only for the current owner
of the adjacent building.
Councilman Arnerich stated that a fourth condition should be added:
that the door is used only as an emergency exit.
Vice Mayor Roth modified his motion to include the four conditions.
The Public Works Director noted that the Uniform Building Code does
not allow a door on the property line, unless it goes to a public
way; therefore, an easement will have to be put into the document
to grant a clear path to the sidewalk.
Vice Mayor Roth expressed concern regarding other properties with
similar situations.
President Withrow left the dais and Acting President Roth assumed
the chair.
Councilmember Appezzato stated that he can support the door if he
can be assured by the City Attorney and the City Manager that the
rights of the City are protected.
Acting President Roth stated that there is a motion and second on
the floor to draw up an agreement to allow the door.
The City Manager suggested that Council direct staff to draw up an
agreement to contain the necessary items shown in the Report after
discussion with the property owners, and authorize staff to execute
the agreement.
Councilman Arnerich noted that the agreement will include the
necessary protections.
President Withrow returned to the dais.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
On call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice
vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich, Roth and
President Withrow - 4. Nayes: None. Abstentions: Councilmember
Lucas - 1.
94-187 Ordinance No. 2661, N.S. "Amending the Alameda Municipal
Code by Amending Subsections 2-1.1 (a) and 2-1.1 (b) (1), and
Repealing Subsection 2-1.1 (b) (2) of Section 2-1 (The City
Council), Article I (The City Council and Meetings of the City
Council), Chapter II (Administration) Thereof, Pertaining to
Starting Time and Order of City Council Meetings.
Vice Mayor Roth moved adoption of the ordinance. Councilmember
Appezzato seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
CONTINUATION OF PARAGRAPH 94-176
Vice Mayor Roth moved that Council direct staff to delete from the
C-2 district the word crematorium. Councilmember Lucas seconded
the motion.
In response to an inquiry from Councilmember Lucas regarding zoning
requirements, the City Attorney stated that the redevelopment plan
has to comply with the General Plan, and zoning should comply with
the General Plan.
The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (Public Comment)
94-188 Gordon A. Christopherson, Alameda, stated that, as memory
serves him, Council directed the City Manager on January 4, 1994,
to meet with him and discuss differences between them [concerning
requests for site plans for the project at 2801-2803], and that
unresolved issues were to be placed on Council's agenda; he wrote
a letter to the City Council on March 17, 1994, concerning one of
the unresolved issues; he was advised by the City Clerk that the
letter was not placed on the agenda this evening because no
Councilmember directed the City Manager to do so; and he would like
confirmation if that is the case.
Mr. Christopherson stated that it seems clear to him the site plans
requested are not covered by Sec. 19851a [Health and Safety Code]
as the City Attorney asserts; and he would like a response.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (Communications from Council)
94-189 Councilmember Lucas stated that as a member of the
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994
Housing and Community Development Committee of the League of
California Cities, she was approached by the City of Santa Ana
regarding current state law which allows up to ten people in a one
bedroom apartment; the law has created a big burden on the City of
Santa Ana and they are asking for support on a Senate Bill; she
would like the matter placed on the agenda; and the Alameda Rental
Owners is also in support of the Bill.
94-190 Mayor Withrow stated that he is proposing April 25 -
May 1, "Let's Stop Kids Killing Kids" week; it is tied to a U.S.
Conference of Mayors' program; the School District has agreed to
take three of the six days, the City Manager is going to take a
couple, one including the Police Department, to focus on
communication and listening skills; and on April 26th a movie will
be shown on Channels 2 and 5 at 8:00 o'clock.
ADJOURNMENT
President Withrow adjourned the meeting at 1:10 a.m.
pectfully submitted,
D E B. FELSCH, CMC
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted 72 hours in advance.
Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council
April 5, 1994