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1993-04-27 Special CC Minutes'159 MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF ALAMEDA CITY COUNCIL APRIL 27, 1993 The meeting convened at 7:30 p.m. with President Withrow presiding. ROLL CALL: Present: Absent: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich, Roth and President Withrow - 4. Councilmember Lucas -1. President Withrow announced Council will address each revenue option individually, as presented. 93-222 Report from the City Manager transmitting responses on Proposed Payment-In-Lieu of Taxes. [See Paragraph 93-223, 1993-94 BUDGET UPDATE, Option C.] 93-223 1993-94 BUDGET UPDATE. Option A. Increase business license fee for multiple units from $20/unit to $40/unit. Councilmember Appezzato stated he is prepared to move on revenue options, as long as Council action is advisory and options will come back to Council again, and moved Option A. Councilmember Roth seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option B. Business License Fee - Single Family Ren*al Units. Vice Mayor Roth moved consideration of a $40.00 Business License Fee; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Appezzato stated he would support a $75.00 fee on a single rental. Following Council discussion, Vice Mayor Roth stated he would amend his motion to consideration of entire range of fees. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option C. Payment In-Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) - City Enterprise Fund. City Manager reviewed the letters received from the Golf Commission, Public Utilities Board and Public Works Director. Vice Mayor Roth stated Payment In-lieu of Taxes is not one of his priorities. Councilman Arnerich moved consideration of Option C; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Appezzato stated there is an alternative for the Bureau of Electricity to loan the City April 27, 1993 153 $1,000,000.; he does not believe he can support that alternative, although will continue to look at it; and he will support the in -lieu of taxes, as long as citizens realize Enterprise Funds may be forced to increase fees and rates. The motion Appezzato, Roth - 1. Option D: Assessment. carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, and President Withrow - 3. Nayes: Vice Mayor Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Street Sweeping Surcharge collected with Urban Runoff The City Manager provided background on the matter, and explained the Council has the authority to divert some of the operating costs currently borne by the General Fund for street sweeping to Urban Runoff Assessment Fund. Mayor Withrow responded he has never liked the Urban Runoff Assessment, and staff's proposal makes sense. Councilman Arnerich moved approval of Option D; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option E. General Parcel Tax To Provide General Funds which can be appropriated annually from General Fund to defend the City's Housing Policies including Measure A, the Housing Element and related charter provisions and ordinances. The City Manager explained Council can impose assessments or place the item on the ballot at a Special Election. Mayor Withrow stated he believes, in this case, Measure A is so important to the City, it would be appropriate to place it on the next ballot. [motion] Councilman Arnerich inquired what a parcel tax would $400,000; the City Manager responded approximately $15. Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion, and added favor of a general parcel tax; however, he will support time, if taken to a vote of the people. The motion Appezzato, Roth - 1. Option F. Option G. Option H. Option I. Option J. be to raise 00 per parcel. he is not in a tax at this carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, and President Withrow - 3. Nayes: Vice Mayor Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Citywide Special Assessment District Citywide Special Assessment District Citywide Special Assessment District Increase Utility Users Tax. Occupational Excise Tax. - Fire Services. - Public Safety. - Park Services. April 27, 1993 1 5 Mayor Withrow stated he believes Options F, G, H, I and J all fall into the same category; and he is not willing to look at Special Assessment Districts until in a state of extremeness. Councilmember Appezzato stated he, too, will not support any of those five Options; and also will not support Option K, unless on the ballot. Councilman 7‘rnerich agreed. Council, by consensus, did not approve Options F, G, H, 1, and J for consideration. Option K. Library Tax Increase. Mayor Withrow stated he feels the same way about Option K, as he does about the other Option on Measure A; if City got to the point where it was going to have to severely encroach upon library services, • Option K is an outlet; and the people of the City need to vote on it. Councilman Arnerich stated Council should send a message to the City Manager tonight that Council would be in favor of a library tax; however, it would have to be voted on by the people. Councilmember Appezzato stated he would only consider three items being placed on the ballot: the General Parcel Tax, the Excise Tax, and the Library Tax. Vice Mayor Roth suggested the issue of upgrading tl-s current library, or providing a new library, should be placed on the ballot at the same,. time. Council, by ,::onsensus, approved Option K for consideration. Option L. Utility Users Tax Councilmember Appezzato moved Option L not be considered at this time; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Vice Mayor Roth stated Cable tax should be brought up to 5 1/2%. Councilmember Appezzato agreed to amending his motion to consider that matter later; Councilman Arnerich concurred. Moion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option M. Increase Property Transfer Tax. Councilman Arnerich moved to approve Option M; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option N. Planning Fees. Councilmember Appezzato moved approval of Option N; Councilman April 27, 1993 155 Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option O. False Alarm Fees. Councilman Arnerich moved approval of Option 0; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option P. Scofflaw (for excessive number of parking citations) Councilmember Appezzato moved approval of Option; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option Q. Golf Surcharge. Out-of-town golfers. Councilmember Appezzato moved to support Option Q; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option R. Adjust Recreation Fees. Councilman Arnerich moved approval of Option R; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option S. Fire Clean Up Charge. Vice Mayor Roth moved approval of Option S; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Following Council and staff discussion, City Manager stated City could enact an administrative policy that would exempt property owners who do not have such coverage. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option T. Sewer Lateral Inspection Fees City Manager explained the background of the matter. Councilman Arnerich stated he was not in favor of Option T, and will not pass additional fees onto homeowners. Councilmember Appezzato stated he believes current fees are already too high, and will also not support Option. President Withrow concurred. Council, by consensus, did not accept Option T for consideration. Option U. Billing for Sidewalk Repair. Councilman Arnerich moved to not accept Option U for consideration; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. April 27, 1993 L Option V. Increase Parking Fine by $5.00/ticket. Vice Mayor Roth moved to not approve Option V for consideration; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option W. Personnel Service Charge Vice Mayor Roth moved to not approve Option W for consideration; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option X. Sell Advertising Space Bus Shelters/Benches. Councilmember Appezzato stated City got rid of billboards above the ground, and will not support billboards on the ground at this time. Councilman Arnerich stated he does not want to go through a billboard issue again; and does not want visual pollution again in the City of Alameda. Vice Mayor Roth moved to not accept Option X; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option Y. Administrative Tow Fee. Councilman Arnerich stated he would like to increase fines for parking violations, e.g. parking in bus and handicap zones, and he is in favor of Administrative Tow Fee. In response to Councilman Arnerich's comments, the City Manager stated staff will consider suggestions. Council, by consensus, approved Option Y for consideration. Option Z. Franchise Taxi Program. Councilmember Appezzato moved approval of consideration of Option Z; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Option AA. Typing Skills Testing Fee Vice Mayor Roth moved approval of consideration of Option AA; Councilman Appezzato seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilman Arnerich stated he cannot see charging someone $5.00 to take a typing test, and he will vote no. Motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Roth and President Withrow - 3. Nayes: Councilman Arnerich - 1. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Option AB. Special Assessment for Marinas for Public Safety. Councilman Arnerich stated he supports Option AB, and suggested perhaps a range of fees can be considered. April 27, 1993 7 Councilmember Appezzato stated since action is advisory only, he will support consideration of the Option. The Option was approved for consideration by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich, and Mayor Withrow - 3. Nayes: Vice Mayor Roth - 1. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Option AC. The City companies for those First-in Responder Fee Manager explained the fee would be billed to insurance as costs are incurred, and an exemption could be provided that are not covered by insurance policies. Vice Mayor Roth moved approval of consideration of Option AC; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Option AD. Personnel Services - Application Processing Fee. Councilmember Appezzato moved consideration of the Option; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Roth and President Withrow - 3. Nayes: Councilman Arnerich - 1. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Option AE. Personnel Services - Oral Examination Fee. City Manager stated it is a $5.00 fee for those who get beyond processing of the initial application, and will help pay cost of oral boards. Councilmember Appezzato moved consideration of the Option; Vice Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following voice Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Roth and President Withrow Nayes: Councilman Arnerich - 1. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 93-224 1992-93 BUDGET. Mayor vote: - 3. 1. Report from the City Manager regarding programmatic reductions for 1992-93. President Withrow stated, in the interest of time, Council will identify cuts they want to discuss; and will address only those issues Council believes are feasible. Councilmember Appezzato stated he will not support any cuts in Recreation, Swim Centers, Mastick Senior Center, and Parks. President Withrow stated it is fair to think there consensus in that area. RECREATION DEPARTMENT, excluding programs. is Council Vice Mayor Roth suggested Council review the other proposed Recreation Department cuts, excluding the Recreation programs. April 27, 1993 Q Following Council discussion, it was agreed to approve, for future consideration, the travel and cash register computer system budget reductions. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Councilmember Appezzato stated everything should come back for Council consideration. LIBRARY DEPARTMENT Council agreed to review two Library Department budget reduction proposals: Option 1, to close libraries every Monday a.m. and Option 2, deferral of hiring a Library Technician. Mr. Archie Waterbury, President, Library Board, stated the Board must cut $80,000. from the budget; five plans were developed; and the Board opted for the least negative one. Councilmember Appezzato stated it is his understanding that Council is going to consider Library Budget Options 1, 2, and 4; believes the Librarian and Board would support those cuts; and does not support [Option 3] reducing appropriation for books. Vice Mayor Roth stated he was only interested- in approving consideration of deferring the hiring of a Library Technician. President Withrow and Councilman Arnerich concurred with Vice Mayor Roth. Councilman Arnerich moved Council pursue Option 2, defer hiring of the Library Technician, and take no action on Options 1, 3 and 4. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. In response to Councilmember Appezzato, Library Board President Waterbury stated Option 1 would free the staff to do some long overdue work. The Library Director noted Option 1 would require Board action. Councilman Arnerich called for the question; the motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. RECREATION, Non-Programs President Withrow stated the next matter to be discussed is the non-program parts of Recreation, 1993-94. Councilman Arnerich moved approval of consideration of budget reductions 1 and 6: elimination of California Park and Recreation Society staffing training ($3,215.), and deferring capital purchase of a cash register computer system ($7,250.); Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. April 27, 1993 PARKS Councilmember Appezzato moved Council approve consideration of budget reduction #1: eliminate apropriations for overtime - $4,000; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Council, by consensus, agreed not to approve budget reduction #2: reduction of appropriation from $21,000. to $10,000. for repair of pathways. Councilman Arnerich moved not to reduce appropriation for tree trimming; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion 'carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilman Arnerich moved to reduce the appropriation for fence/backstop repair from $14,700 to $7,000; and to look at the possibility of obtaining $7,000 from Enterprise Fund; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilmember Appezzato moved to defer appropriation for painting ballfield lights for one year; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilmember Appezzato moved Council not consider eliminating appropriation for other professional services; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilman Arnerich moved Council not consider reducing appropriation for utilizing water; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Vice Mayor Roth moved appropriation for outside equipment repair maintenance not be cons4.dered for reduction; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilmember Appezzato moved Council not consider reducing appropriation for outside structural repair by $2,000; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilman Arnerich moved Council not consider reducing the appropriation for repairs of water pumps; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. SWIM CENTERS Council, by consensus, agreed not to consider budget reductions for Swim Centers' programs. MASTICK SENIOR CENTER Vice Mayor Roth moved to approve consideration of reducing pickups from two to one time per week; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. April 27, 1993 0 Councilman Arnerich moved Council not consider reducing budget by $550. appropriated for Meetings on Gerontology. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion and requested a condition be applied that the value of the training be closely looked at. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilman Arnerich moved Council approve consideration of a budget reduction of $1,665 appropriated for Other Professional Services; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilman Arnerich moved Council approve consideration of eliminating budget approporiation of $2,654. for Contractual Services; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. The City Manager stated Personnel Services for Recreation Programs was addressed, and Council directed no programs be cut. Vice Mayor Roth moved Council approve consideration of reducing budget by deferring purchase of computer; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. POLICE DEPARTMENT Delay implementation of the Police Cadet Program. The Acting Police Chief commented the program is a long term goal; it has been delayed for one year; and he recommends it be deferred for another year. Under discussion, Vice Mayor Roth stated the School District is in the process of dropping the DARE Program, and inquired whether that would be a savings to the City. The Acting Police Chief stated the Police Department has made adjustments to cover the teaching of DARE; it is a valuable Program and he would recommend continuing it. The City Manager advised Council if the School District cuts the Program, he would like to bring information back to the Council on the matter. Councilman Arnerich moved Council approve consideration of delaying the Police Cadet Program; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Councilmember Appezzato stated he believes the Program is a valuable tool, and would like to see it implemented. Vice Mayor Roth stated if Council increases revenues, certain cuts can be revisited. The City Manager reminded Council their actions taken this evening are for consideration of certain budget cuts at a later date. April 27, 1993 161 Councilmember Appezzato explained he would like the Police Cadet Program revisited if the City can fund it. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Convert to a total "Direct Dial Telephone System". President Withrow stated he supports the recommendation. Councilman Arnerich stated he detests such systems, and cannot support recommendation. Councilmember Appezzato stated he will support conversion only if absolutely necessary. Councilman Arnerich moved Council not support conversion; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Ayes: Councilman Arnerich and Vice Mayor Roth - 2. Nayes: Councilmember Appezzato and President Withrow - 2. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. (No action taken) Defer equipment replacements. Councilmember Appezzato moved to defer all equipment replacements, including police service dog, and entertain a request for budget adjustment on an emergency basis. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Defer hiring of 5 sworn officer positions. Vice Mayor Roth moved to not consider recommendation; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Eliminate a part time technician. Councilmember Appezzato moved Council approve consideration of budget reduction; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. Motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Appezzato, Roth and President Withrow - 3. Noes: Councilman Arnerich - 1. Absent: Councilmember Lucas - 1. FIRE DEPARTMENT Reduce appropriations for Miscellaneous Services and Supplies. Councilmember Appezzato moved consideration of recommendation; Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Delete the position of Deputy Chief. Councilmember Appezzato moved consideration of recommendation; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. April 27, 1993 Defer hiring of 3 firefighters. In response to Councilman Arnerich, the Fire Chief stated the recommendation will have some negative impacts, however, believes he can make it work. Councilman Arnerich moved that Council approve consideration of recommendation. In response to Councilmember Appezzato, the Fire Chief stated the entire management staff will be transferred to line functions for a large percentage of the time; there will be a 10% impact on various ,Department programs; and he will report immediately to Council if recommendation should significantly affect the Department. The City Manager noted that the Fire Department was the only Department not required to reduce budget by 5%. Councilmember Appezzato seconded Councilman Arnerich's motion. The motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. PLANNING DEPARTMENT Planning Department 5% reduction of $29,014. The Planning Director stated her first choice is increasing Planning Department fees for development permits, and, therefore, avoid any changes in Personnel within the Department. Councilman Arnerich stated if Council approves for consideration the [proposed] Planning fees, the Planning Department staff level could be 7aintained, and so moved. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion. In response to Vice Mayor Roth, the Planning Director provided Council with examples of proposed fee increases. Councilman Arnerich restated his motion: "Council defer matter to the City Manager; if possible to obtain funding from increased Planning fees; two Intermediate Typist Clerks be retained." Motion carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT The City Manager stated Council addressed the Public Works [budget] and signed off on it. President Withrow concurred, and entertained a motion to extend the Council meeting for 15 minutes. Councilmember Appezzato so moved; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion which was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilmember Appezzato commented that he agrees with budget reductions in Maintenance and Central Permits [budgets]. The City Manager responded Public Works [budget] includes those divisions. April 27, 1993 1 6 3 CITY COUNCIL Reduce travel line item appropriations ($7,266.)and/or Reduce ABAG membership line item appropriation ($9,645.) Vice Mayor Roth stated Council's budget appropriation for benefits (health and dental] should be reduced by 50%. President Withrow explained only two Councilmembers are currently receiving benefits. Councilmember Appezzato moved Council approve for consideration both line item appropriation reductions, and adjustment to benefits appropriation. Council, by consensus, approved Councilmember Appezzato's motion. CITY CLERK Reduce line item appropriations by $7,600. Councilmember Appezzato moved approval of line item appropriation reductions for General Office Supplies, Equipment Maintenance, legal notices, and equipment purchases. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. [Municipal Code codification appropriation reduction was not approved by Council.] CITY MANAGER Defer irinq of Management Anaylyst Councilmember Appezzato moved approval of deferral. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. CABLE TELEVISION Reduce line item appropriations: $1,370. The City Manager stated cable laws are changing, and it is important to attend Cable Seminars; if necessary, cost of seminars will be absorbed by the Contingency Fund. Counci:Aember Appezzato so moved. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. CITY ATTORNEY Reduce line item appropriations $10,055. Reduce Consulting Fees Sio,425. GENERAL LIABILITY Reduce auto physical damage coverage $1,822. Reduce insurance coverage - computers 19,645. April 27, 1993 iL Refund from California JPRMA 22,533. Councilman Arnerich moved Council approve, for consideration, a line item appropriations reduction of $5,055; and a Consulting fees reduction of $10,425. Council, by consensus, approved the motion. Councilmember Appezzato moved acceptance of General Liability reductions; Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. FINANCE DEPARTMENT Continue to defer hiring of a Budget Analyst $40,149. Councilmember Appezzato moved approval. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Defer hiring of a Payroll Technician $45,884. Councilman Arnerich moved approval. Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Defer replacement of Intermediate Typist Clerk $15,600. Councilman Arnerich moved approval. Councilmember App'azzato seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Add: Additional Part-time Hearing Officer Continue the Part-time Payroll Clerk Councilman ArneriCa moved approval of Hearing Officer and Payroll Clerk. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. PERSONNEL DEPARTMENT Reduce line item appropriations $5,804. Employee Recognition Program 5,000. Volunteer Program 14,000. Part-time Salaries 500. Councilman Arnerich moved Council support the Volunteer Program and Employee Recognition Events. Motion failed for lack of a second. Councilmember Appezzato moved Council approve, for consideration, proposed line item appropriation reductions ($5,804.), and support [funding] for the Volunteer Program and Employee Recognition Events. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Councilmember Appezzato stated he is opposed to layoffs for a number of reasons, and inquired if a "bumped" employee is able to find another City position. The Personnel Director stated a few layoffs would result, and she will April 27, 1993 provide a list to Council next time. The City Manager noted closure of City facilities one day a week, 52 days/year, and the four days between Christmas and New Years options. Councilmember Appezzato moved both options remain on the table for further consideration. Vice Mayor Roth seconded the motion which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. Vice Mayor Roth moved acceptance of the letters from Golf Commission, Public Utilities Board, and Public Works Director. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by a unanimous voice vote - 4. [See Paragraph 1993-94 BUDGET UPDATE, Option C.] ADJOURNMENT There being no further business before the City Council, President Withrow adjourned the meeting at 11:30 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. April 27, 1993