1987-11-03 Regular CC MinutesREGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA
HELD TUESDAY NOVEMBER 3, 1987
The meeting convened at 7:50 p.m. (at the conclusion of the the
meeting of the Housing Authority Commission) with President Corica
presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was given by Councilmember
Thomas. Reverend Doug Henderson gave the invocation.
ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Camicia, Haugner, Monsef,
Thomas, and President Corica - 5.
Absent: None.
MINUTES
Councilmember Monsef made a motion to approve the minutes of the
Regular Council Meeting of October 20, 1987. Councilmember
Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice
vote - 5.
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
87 -761 Joint Meeting between the City Council and Social Service
Human Relations Board.
President Corica noted that the Social Service Human Relations
Board (SSHRB) had forwarded to Council its Needs Assessment
Report, a comprehensive and ambitious program of goals and
activities, including studies, works sessions and items they plan
to address in the coming year; that the Board is doing work that
is very helpful to the Council; inquired if there were specific
issues they wanted to point out to Council, for, if there are not,
the packet submitted is extensive.
Paul Berger, President, SSHRB, introduced other Board members who
were present (Jack Barlas; Susan G. Foulkes; Phyllis D.
Marshall, Vice - President; William McConnell; and Student
Representative John Libertori); stated the Board was holding its
annual meeting with Council pursuant to the City Charter; that
there is no urgent issue on which they request Council's
assistance, other than approval of the work plan.
Councilmember Camicia stated he made suggestions about a month ago
regarding the SSHRB and the responsibilities of the Housing
Authority, and inquired if the Board would look at those matters
and if the issues could be addressed at the Housing Authority
meeting in January.
Mr. Berger stated the Board would, and prior to that the Board
would agendize and review the matter.
Councilmember Haugner thanked the Board for the work they have
been doing.
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Councilmember Thomas thanked the Board for what they have been
doing, particularly concerning the Child Care problems.
Mr. Berger stated that Child Care is one of the most important
problems in Alameda; that comprehensive studies on a number of
topics, including the Homeless Issues as addressed by the
Committee Chairman Phyllis Marshall, will be presented.
President Corica expressed appreciation to the Board for its
efforts.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Thomas requested that Item No. 2 -D regarding
Personal Service Agreement with a Contract Planner, be removed
from the Consent Calendar and placed on the regular agenda.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to approve the Consent
Calendar with the exception of Item No. 2 -D (See 87 -787).
Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk.
REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
*87 -762 From Finance Director regarding status of automated data
processing system. Accepted.
*87 -763 From Public Works Director recommending acceptance of work
by Les McDonald Construction Company for repair and resurfacing of
certain streets, Phase 9, P.W. No. 6- 87 -15. Accepted.
RESOLUTIONS
*87 -764 Resolution No. 11328 "Authorizing execution of amendment
to service agreement with Gates, McDonald & Company for Workers'
Compensation Claims Administration." Adopted.
*87 -765 Resolution No. 11329 "Authorizing submittal of a Grant
Application for the Career Criminal Apprehension Program (C -CAP)
Phase III, Managing Criminal Investigations (MCI) to the Office of
Criminal Justice Planning, State of California, and authorizing
execution of a Grant Award." Adopted.
*87 -766 Resolution No. 11330 "Approving the destruction of
certain City records." Adopted.
*87 -767 Resolution No. 11331 "Authorizing establishment of Petty
Cash Fund of Public Works Department." Adopted.
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BILLS
*87-768 A List of Claims certified by the City Manager as correct
was approved in the amount of $1,907,675.86.
RETURN TO REGULAR AGENDA
RESOLUTIONS
87-769 Resolution No. 11332 "Appointing Raymond E. Anderson as a
member of the Civil Service Board." Adopted.
Councilmember Monsef made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-770 Resolution No. 11333 "Appointing Michael Richards as a
member of the Social Service Human Relations Board." Adopted.
Councilmember Haugner made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
87-771 From Roberta Roberts, 221 Avington Road, concerning zoning
regulations.
President Corica stated the matter has been addressed by staff and
inquired regarding the status.
The Planning Director stated that an invitation has been extended
to Mrs. Roberts to meet with staff, but there has not been a
response yet.
Councilmember Haugner made a motion to accept the communication.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-772 From Suzanne Lindsey and Rosemary Perata, Alameda,
requesting discontinuance of condemnation proceedings against the
property located at the corner of Oak Street and Central Avenue.
Suzanne Lindsey, 1245 Hawthorne Street, Co-owner of the business
"Outback", an apparel outlet, stated that the business which has
been open for two weeks, has been well-received; the building has
been updated and repainted, the old sign has been removed and a
new, more appropriate sign will be placed; and it is requested
that Council discontinue the condemnation proceeding.
President Corica commented that the area has been upgraded since
the "Outback" has been at the subject location; and a
communication has been received from the owner of the property
stating his satisfaction with the tenant Outback.
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In response to President Corica's inquiry regarding appropriate
procedure in the matter, the City Attorney stated that Council may
accept the communication and then consider the matter at a
litigation session whenever Council wishes; that there is a year
lease during which the Council may come to a decision.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to accept the communication
and set a Closed Session to discuss the matter. Councilmember
Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice
vote - 5.
HEARINGS
87-773 Consideration of proposed Negative Declaration (IS-87-9)
and Rezoning (R-87-3) from C-1, Neighborhood Business District to
R-1, One Family Residence District of the property at the gore of
Gibbons Drive and Fernside Boulevard. Applicant: City of
Alameda.
President Corica reviewed the background of the matter and noted
the owners now would like to continue the Hearing; and stated he
believed the Hearing should be held.
Councilmember Thomas stated she agreed because they are asking
that it be held until the buyer obtains all approvals and permits
which could take a long time.
Councilmember Haugner stated she would like the matter resolved
tonight.
Council, by consensus, agreed to proceed with the Hearing.
President Corica explained the procedure of the Hearing.
The Planning Director reviewed the background of the matter,
commenting that the Planning Board, in reviewing the matter, did
consider several zoning districts as being applicable, that the
residence proposed for the property is very fine, should be good
for the neighborhood, but may need some minor variances.
President Corica opened the public portion of the meeting.
On the call for proponents, the following spoke:
Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street
On the call for opponents, the following spoke:
James Tsukamoto, 151 Callan Avenue, San Leandro
Comments were made by Maureen Moriarty, 1904 Cornell Drive.
The public portion of the Hearing was closed.
Councilmember Thomas stated the resolution of the issue should be
based on what is best for the neighborhood, not whether or not a
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deal [to sell the property] will go through or fail; and if it is
to be residential, it may as well be downzoned now; and it would
be well for Planning Staff, the Planning Board, and the neighbors
to work with the purchaser if he needs any variances, to put in
the residence.
Councilmember Monsef stated he agreed and the variances that may
be necessary have been stated to be minor in nature.
President Corica commented that citizens in the nighborhood have
cooperated in the past to try to work things out; and believes
this will now take care of their neighborhood.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to close the Hearing.
Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Councilmember Camicia moved to take the related ordinance out of
order. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was
carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES
87 -774 Ordinance No. N.S. "Reclassifying and rezoning
certain properties within the City of Alameda by amending Zoning
Ordinance No. 1277, N.S.; Applicant: City of Alameda, R -87 -3,
the property located at 3126 Fernside Boulevard." Introduced.
Councilmember Thomas made a motion to introduce the ordinance.
Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
APPEALS
87 -775 Appeal of Planning Board's decision to approve Variance
87 -11. The property is located at 608 Waterview Isle and is zoned
R -lYf5, One Family Residence District, with a special front yard
depth of five feet. Applicant: Jay and Joy Davis. Appellant:
Dan and Carmen Lasar, Walter and Camille Galyk. (Council "tabled"
matter at October 20th Council Meeting to the November 3rd Council
Meeting.)
The City Attorney commented that Council heard testimony at the
last meeting and cautioned that if Council intends to reopen the
argument, no new evidence should be submitted at this time.
Councilmember Camicia stated he made a motion [at the last
meeting] to allow time for the neighbors to attempt to resolve the
matter; and he would like to hear what progress had been made.
President Corica stated that a message has been received that no
progress has been made.
Lance Russum, 2500 Santa Clara Avenue, reported that there had
been a meeting; at the office of appellants' attorney, where they
discussed whether appellants would approve reduction of the size
49
of the addition in width or depth but it was not approved, noted
that there could be construction without a variance, and a second
story without a variance but the response was that there would be
no consent to anything that would require a variance; there could
be a solid wall where the glass wall is, and other alternatives
that would impact the neighbors more than current plans.
Councilmember Haugner stated Council is limited and she does not
know if Council is in a position to overrule the Planning Board.
given the information in the records.
Councilmember Thomas stated that there is evidence to support the
findings and the findings support the granting of the variance and
that is the scope of Council's review as she understands it; she
also understands that the Davises could build a wall that is not
transparent, the full length and width of the proposed addition,
and she does not understand the disharmony in this matter.
Councilmember Camicia stated the Davises could still build a
structure that would impact upon the neighbors; he had hoped for
a discussion to take place where the neighbors might have worked
something out, but this was not the case; that the dilemma for
the Council is: does Council overturn the Planning Board's
decision and allow the Davises to build what they want that would
upset the neighbors, or let the matter go and upset the neighbors
more; and, it is a no-win situation.
Camille Galyk, 604 Waterview Isle, stated that there are many
neighbors who signed a petition against the Davises' addition, and
she believes there are no extraordinary circumstances involved.
Councilmember Camicia stated if Council does not uphold the
Planning Board's decision, there might be something added that
would cause the neigbors to be equally unhappy.
Mrs. Galyk stated she did not believe that would happen.
Councilmember Camicia requested there be clarification of the
building possibilities on the subject property.
The Planning Director responded that it is single family
residential; it is possible to extend the building five feet
more; and there can be second stories up to thirty feet in
heighth, and as long as the building is within the setbacks, it
can be done without a variance.
President Corica stated there has been a great deal of work done
by the Planning Board before reaching their decision, and it was a
six to zero decision.
Councilmember Thomas made a motion to sustain the Planning Board
decision. Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and the
motion was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Camicia, Haugner, Thomas and President Corica - 4.
Noes: Councilmember Monsef - 1. Absent: None.
87-775 Appeal of Planning Board's decision to approve Variance
V-87-30. The property is located at 815 Paru Street and is zoned
R-1, One Family Residence District. Applicant: Richard Burgess.
Appellant: Roger and Bernice Lucero.
President Corica noted that the Appellants wished to have the
matter continued. He also commented that the Appeal was
requesting an overturning of a Planning Board decision that was
carried by a six to zero vote.
Bernice Lucero, Appellant, 821 Paru Street, stated she received
the packet Friday and the attorney told her today he cannot
represent her, and she would like to have time to find a new
attorney.
Councilmember Thomas inquired if this would work a hardship on the
Applicant.
Mr. Burgess responded that it would, because the matter has been
delayed for several weeks.
President Corica stated that if the appellant did not get all the
information, then time should be allowed to obtain it.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to continue the matter for two
weeks. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion, and it was
carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
The City Attorney stated the parties do not know what the record
is until it is produced.
Councilmember Camicia stated this would not prevent the appellants
and applicant from getting together in the next two weeks and
working this out.
Mr. Burgess stated the information was available directly after
the meeting.
REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
87-776 From City Manager on status of implementation of
defibrillation and trauma triage procedures.
Councilmember Camicia stated he would appreciate a procedure
established whereby a brief overview of items would be given at
the beginning of consideration of each item.
Michael D'Orazi, President, Alameda Fire Fighters Association,
stated there are misleading statements in the report regarding the
Union's position; the fire fighters believe it would be
irresponsible to undertake additional duties at this time which
would further reduce the already depleted fire protection services
to the community, is not seeking additional staffing levels, only
to maintain a professionally justified level of service of 5
engines, 2 trucks and 2 ambulances on a daily basis, and is
fighting attempts to decrease staffing levels; the filing of the
grievance is intended to rectify the situation brought about by
the City Manager's directive of September, 1987; believes it is
time to rectify a dangerous situation; advice of firefighting
professionals has been ignored; and he has made a survey of
surrounding communities which reveals that each city has enough
manpower to man every piece of its equipment in service every day.
Chris Reilly, 463 Santa Clara Avenue, Secretary of Local 689,
Alameda Firefighters, stated the two programs being reviewed
constitutes a major change in the duties and responsibilities of
firefighters; transporting causes apparatus to be out of service
a longer period of time; were told in 1984, when ambulance system
was added for no added compensation, there would be no major
change in responsibilities; for cardiac patients, there will be
responsibility and liability for a higher level of care, a new job
scope under Alameda County authority; fire fighters want to
implement the new program; but it should not be at the expense of
the fire suppression force; bringing minimum wage people in will
only require training they will use to get better pay elsewhere;
it is a meet-and-confer item when it impacts safety; and the
Union wants to provide pre-hospital care and a strong firefighting
force.
The City Manager gave an overview of defibrillation and trauma
triage procedures; noting there is currently transport of some
patients; pieces of modern equipment have been purchased; the
County has implemented the Trauma program; new County standard
requires Triage procedure with scoring; firefighters are being
requested to be trained regarding scoring technique;
defibrillation requirement recently has been allowed by State law;
currently have Emergency Medical Technicians and this would be
added to the skill level with additional responsibility, and
requires four to eight hours of training, during working hours,
regarding the machine to be used.
Councilmember Monsef made a motion to accept the report.
Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-777 From City Attorney regarding the Public Information Act.
The City Attorney explained that, broadly defined, the Act
requires that there must be disclosure of anything retained in the
ordinary course of business that is not exempted to public
inspection; and there are fairly common exemptions, such as
litigation items, personnel files, memos and items that have not
yet reached the stage of fruition, etc.
Darlene Evans, 1215 Grand Street, stated that with regard to
Housing Opportunities Provided Equally [H.O.P.E.], she believed
that her case file was handled incorrectly.
President Corica noted it appeared she was looking for personal
information.
The City Manager stated he would request the Community Development
2
Department check into the matter.
James Spitzer, 450E Cola Ballena, Alamedans for Responsible
Planning, stated he has had extensive experience obtaining
information from the City offices and most were very good; that
without free access, the group would not have been able to present
a good argument to take care of the matter of the Ballena Bay
Project; that, however, in reviewing files, he has noted there is
a letter to the City Manager, distributed to Council; he
attempted to obtain the letter, calls were not returned, and
finally it was returned and he was informed that the City Attorney
had stated the letter could be released; he is pleased the matter
of disclosure has been brought to the attention of the City
departments.
Councilmember Thomas inquired if Mr. Spitzer had received the
letter.
Mr. Spitzer responded he has not.
Councilmember Thomas inquired if the letter is covered under this
and should be made available to Mr. Spitzer, to which the City
Attorney responded if they have been retained in the ordinary
course of business, they would be public record.
Councilmember Thomas stated she believes they are in the City
Manager's office and inquired if they could be made available to
Mr. Spitzer, to which the City Manager stated that would be no
problem.
Councilmember Camicia stated Mr. Spitzer can see whatever he
receives, when he is in his office on Friday afternoons, and Mr.
Spitzer, in response, thanked Mr. Camicia, and commented that he
did not believe it should be necessary for a citizen to approach
Councilmembers or the Mayor to obtain records that are rightfully
a part of the public records and belong to the community.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to accept the report.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87 -778 From Community Development Director concerning proposed
Navy Housing, Alameda Naval Air Station.
Councilmember Haugner made a motion to accept the report.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87 -779 From Public Works Director on determination of number of
units in a structure.
Don Patterson, 2424 Central Avenue, representing'the Alameda Board
of Realtors, thanked the Public Works Director for his excellent
job working with the committee, his understanding of the problem,
and ability to resolve the matter; that basically the Board
agrees with the report; discussed the length of time required to
make the unit determination; stressed that the Board of Realtors
should not be held responsible for any consequences that may arise
from any transactions prior to the adoption of this report and
procedure by the City Council.
Christopher Hanson, 543 Palace Court, stated the Public Works
Director's report to Council represents an eloquent compromise to
a problem that has been a struggle for some time; the City
record - keeping regarding houses is not adequate; and requested
Council wholeheartedly support the proposed procedure.
Joey Winters, 2233 Santa Clara Avenue, stated she called 25 times
about 25 homes and was told they were all single family dwellings,
that one of them has nine meters; that the County records are
impeccable and they are free but the City will not accept them; a
client was denied building permits because the City says his two
units are a single- family residence; requests the City look into
the appraisals done by the County in 1951.
Nicole Byers, 2233 Santa Clara, agreed with what previous speakers
had stated; that there is a problem putting people through a
conflict between the City and the County; suggested approving the
second alternative and work with alternative No 3 if everyone does
not like it; the burden of proof has been placed on the wrong
people; and all agree to support the report.
Councilmember Thomas stated all know how bad this problem is; she
hasn't been able to document a single family dwelling built in
1949 which appears to be on its own lot which County says is
there; in the 1930s and 1940s the records were not kept well;
every piece of work done on property must have had permit on it;
the City records are not good but County records are; perhaps a
cut -off date of 1973 when Measure A was implemented, would be
feasible, perhaps amnesty could be given; and inquired if that
matter was addressed.
Mr. Patterson stated it was and added that the only viable record
that could be found was the County survey of 1951, but the records
of the City between 1951 and 1973 were not adequate so they
believed the base date for their research should have been 1951,
realizing that could create problems for persons who may have
purchased since 1951.
Councilmember Camicia stated he had no difficulty in getting a
loan on the basis of the County records.
Mr. Patterson noted it depends upon local financing institutions,
as to whether they accept County records or records of the local
municipality.
President Corica stated that when the proposition 13 passed in
1978, possibly the City records were transferred over to the
County, when the County started collecting the taxes.
The City Manager stated he believed that was true.
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Ms. Byers, stated that it is becoming more common that the local
or the strictest records apply with lending institutions.
Councilmember Monsef made a motion to accept the report and
recommendation. Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and it
was carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers
Haugner, Monsef, and President Corica 3. Noes: None.
Abstentions: Councilmembers Camicia and Thomas - 2.
RESOLUTIONS
87-780 Resolution No. 11334 "Opposing agreements for extensions
outside Bay Area Rapid Transit District." Adopted.
John Scott Graham, 1728 Tregloan Court, stated he would not like
to see the City of Alameda pay taxes for this.
President Corica commented BART should be kept working in Alameda
County before moving out to other Cities which have not yet been
paying a fair share.
Councilmember Haugner stated she believed Council should support
the resolution as the people of Alameda County and Contra Costa
County have been paying for BART.
Councilmember Haugner made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-781 Resolution No. 11335 "Supporting the Main Street Program
in Alameda for Fiscal Year 1987-88." Adopted.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-782 Resolution No. 11336 "Proposed Noise Abatement Procedures
at Oakland International Airport." (Continued from 9/1, 9/15 and
10/6 Council Meetings) Adopted.
President Corica commented that Council has been struggling with
this matter for several weeks, have not made a lot of progress,
and hopes this will attract some attention.
Wayne Pearce, 1136 Fontana Drive, stated he agrees with all of the
resolution except the paragraph regarding diversion of traffic to
Runways 9L, 9R or 29 for nighttime flights; that "Scientific
American" 1974, Vol. 30, pg.76, deals with weight turbulence
which comes from large aircraft, and it is not a good idea to
require inexperienced pilots to go into the same area as heavy
aircraft and that is a safety problem; and that diverting flights
from one area to another, simply moves the noise problem from one
area to another.
Councilmember Thomas stated that student pilots should not fly
at night, and that can be restricted.
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Mr. Pearce stated that if the Port forces the pilots to adhere to
noise abatement procedures, disallows intersection takeoffs, and
proper right turns on touch-and-gos, it is a much better way to
proceed, and the traffic will be been separated; and would like
student planes to be kept separate from commercial planes.
Gordon Christopherson, 2807 Marina Drive, stated that materially
he does not find any opposition to the resolution; moving planes
to R29 is feasible; referred to the June draft of the FAR Part
150 Study just given to him; displayed a map from the FAA,
stating the sound is transferred and goes over lagoons right near
the hospital.
Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, stated he does not understand
why copies of resolutions and ordinances are not placed on the
bulletin board with the copies of staff reports; if noise
standards are set up and violators caught, the situation could
change; perhaps records of the airport on takeoffs and landings
could be coordinated with City records of violation to find out
and trace who is making the noise; and suggested adding the
following to the resolution: "and that the City urges that the
airport establish procedures to aid in identifying violators of
noise abatement requirements, and that they keep and make records
available to the City upon request."
President Corica stated that the City is now getting letters from
people in Oakland; and the noise problem is not an easy issue to
handle.
Councilmember Monsef stated there has been work on the resolution
for a long time; it is acceptable to him; and he made a motion
to adopt the resolution. Councilmember Haugner seconded the
motion.
The motion was carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-783 Resolution No. 11337 "Authorizing execution of agreement
with Alameda County for apportionment of the City's share of
County Gas Tax Funds." Adopted.
John Scott Graham, 1728 Tregloan Court, stated he favors the
agreement, and believes the City should have its fair share of the
taxes.
Councilmember Monsef made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
87-784 Resolution No. "Authorizing open market purchase of
various pieces of equipment for the Public Works Department."
Adopted.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to adopt the resolution, and
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion.
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President Corica stated he had a concern about the car designated
for the City Manager; inquired why the City Manager should have a
Police radio, or a telephone, if it is to sit in the parking lot
for most of the day or in front of his residence; doesn't believe
they are necessary, and previous City Managers have not had them.
Councilmember Haugner inquired why the City Manager believes he
should have them.
The City Manager responded that the radio was suggested as a
result of some of the exercises done in Civil Defense, was
discussed with the Police Chief and the Fire Cheif, and the police
radio also would enable him to monitor transmissions by the Police
Department; that if Council would like it removed, if it seems to
Council to be excessive or without sufficient justification, he
will remove it.
President Corica stated his concern is that the car is parked most
of the time and the equipment could be more effectively used in a
Police car.
The City Manager stated he had no problem with taking it out.
Councilmember Camicia stated he believed in an emergency, the City
Manager should be able to communicate with City Hall and the
Police Department.
President Corica stated in an emergency, he would drive to City
Hall in minutes.
Councilmember Camicia stated when one is on site, it makes sense
to communicate.
The City Manager stated the radio link is to the dispatch function
in the Police Department which involves both the Fire and Police
Departments.
The following votes were cast regarding the motion: Ayes:
Councilmembers Camicia, Haugner, and Monsef - 3. Noes:
Councilmember Thomas - 1.
Councilmember Haugner stated the vote was with the radio, she
thinks it is appropriate; if the car is only driven to work,
there is no need to have a car; she assumes it is used for City
business and when the City Manager is away, the radio is
appropriate and therefore she voted affirmatively.
President Corica voted no and the motion failed for lack of a
four-fifths vote.
Councilmember Monsef inquired if President Corica was opposed to
both the telephone and the radio, or just the telephone, to which
President Corica responded he objected more to the telephone than
to the radio.
Councilmember Monsef stated that perhaps the telephone should be
removed and the radio allowed to remain.
Councilmember Thomas stated she objects to the new car;
would prefer to have a new fire fighter.
87 -785 Resolution No. 11339 "Authorizing execution of
with First Interstate Leasing, Inc. for lease - purchase
in connection with purchase of City vehicles." Adopted.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to adopt the resolution
Councilmember Haugner seconded the motion and it was carried b
the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Camicia, Haugner
Monsef, and Thomas - 4. Noes: President Corica - 1. Absent
None.
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that she
agreement
agreement
i
y
87 -786 Resolution No. 11340 "Authorizing reprogramming of small
business development funds to the Economic Development Corporation
of Alameda for a business survey and market analysis of the
Webster Street area." Adopted.
Councilmember Camicia made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
Councilmember Thomas inquired if the traffic counts will be
completed before the completion of Patton Way [Constitution Way]
and Atlantic Avenue.
Ron Gerber, Economic Development Corporation of Alameda stated he
will look at the traffic count data.
Ron Gerber said he believes there will be impact on Patton Way.
The City Manager noted that Patton Way will be completed in March,
and the program of traffic counts will be continued.
President Corica questioned if efforts were being duplicated.
The City Manager stated that traffic counts are done in the normal
course of business.
Councilmember Thomas inquired when the business survey and market
analysis will be done.
Mr. Gerber responded that the business survey would be started
immediately and be completed, tabulated and written up in
approximately four or five weeks, and in mid to late December the
market analysis will begin, and should be completed approximately
four to six weeks afterward; and stated an addendum could be
added later.
87 -787 Resolution No. 11341 "Authorizing exectition of personal
service agreement with a Contract Planner for a period of six
months." Adopted.
Councilmember Thomas questioned the payment of another contract
58
employee that appeared to be exorbitant, and the City Manager
reviewed the matter, noting that was a different type of contract
than the current one.
Councilmember Thomas made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
FINAL PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES
87 -788 Ordinance No. 2364 N.S. "Amending the Alameda Municipal
Code by adding Chapter 11 to Title XV thereof, regulating smoking
in public places, restaurants, hotels, motels, and places of
employment." Introduced. (Councilmember Monsef)
James Hanacek, 2110 Eagle Avenue, inquired how many on Council
smoke and what was the driving influence in proposing the
ordinance.
Councilmember Monsef replied that health was the influence.
Mr. Hanacek questioned why there should be talk only about smoke,
why not other things like drugs and nuclear energy; if doctors
are so concerned about helping people because of smoking problems,
they should get educated in operations to help the people breath
better; smoking will hurt everybody but so do many other things.
Councilmember Monsef commented smoking can be handled first and
hopefully at some point other things can be addressed.
David Rose, 3029 Bayo Vista, St. Philip Neri's Church, stated he
would like clarification of this law on how will it affect bingo
games, to which the City Attorney stated that churches are not
exempted.
The City Attorney stated that the ordinance is aimed at smoking,
not the buildings; it should be reviewed according to the Code.
Councilmember Haugner stated if someone is smoking at one end of
the hall, the smoke extends to the other end; there cannot be
constant bending of the ordinance.
Councilmember Monsef stated he believes the ordinance is clear;
if a building is used for the public, then it is public; if it is
in a house, that is private.
The City Attorney stated he would assist persons in his office and
will answer very specific questions they may have.
Anne Hulin, Chamber of Commerce, 2314 Central Avenue, stated the
ordinance impacts on the small businesses which require a longer
period of time in store, i.e., fitting of glasses, hobby classes,
etc.; that the choice of business persons is being taken away;
and that hotels and motels are required to keep ten percent of
rooms to be non - smoking, and believed that percentage is too high.
9
John Scott Graham, 1728 Tregloan Court, stated he is a smoker who
has tried several times to quit but is in favor of - non - smokers;
believes the restaurants should have areas for smokers; and there
will be loss of revenue to the City if the restaurants lose
business.
Darlene Evans, 1215 Grand Street, stated the school had sections
for smokers, little children on the street have chewing tobacco;
16- year -olds can purchase cigarettes with a note; and there needs
to be enforcement by the police.
Edward Clark, West Alameda Business Association stated all
problems should have been discussed previously, that he understand
the problems of bingo places, because the players smoke.
The City Attorney clarified that the general proposition is that
there cannot be smoking in enclosed areas that are open for anyone
from the public, and it cannot be said that it does not apply to
bingo players, pool shooters, etc.
Mr. Clark questioned if there would be a variance to which the
City Attorney responded no, that it is not a land use regulation,
that smoking is as bad for bingo player as others and this is a
health and safety ordinance.
Mr. Clark stated he is against smoking but not sure it has been
thought through for economic ramifications.
Councilmember Monsef stated a number of years ago, there were
shopping malls in Sacramento County where people were prohibited
from smoking even though they shop for hours, and if they need to
smoke, they step out and come back in again; and he believes the
ordinance is fair and practical and made a motion for final
passage.
President Corica commented that if there are problems, Council can
always amend the ordinance.
Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
87 -789 President Corica requested a report on the status of the
Canine Program and when it will be implemented, to which the City
Manager responded there would be a report at the next meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
87 -790 Councilmember Thomas announced that Mr. ,D. K. Templeton
will be substituted for Mr. John Barni, Jr. on the Charter
Review Committee.
87 -791 Councilmember Haugner commented that she would like the
matter of a retreat to be considered; that several cities in the
area have had retreats; requested the City Manager to check on
how a Retreat can be held within the confines of the Brown Act,
and suggested the League of California Cities be contacted.
87-792 Councilmember Thomas suggested that the Sally Swanson &
Associates contract, due to bankruptcy filing, be reviewed
carefully in order to protect the City.
(See attached verbatim for discussion.)
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
,
DIANE B. FELSCH
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted 72 hours in advance in
accordance with the Brown Act.
Verbatim of a portion of the November 3, 1987, Council Meeting
regarding Sally Swanson & Associates.
New Business
(See Paragraph Number 87 -792 of the November 3rd Minutes).
Vice Mayor Thomas: Last meeting we took a bill off, or a warrant,
whatever they are called, for Sally Swanson. And I guess the reason
we did it is because she had filed a bankruptcy and I am concerned
about that contract. We have $187,000 with someone who may or may not
be in bankruptcy, and I think that is something that -- we should
review the contract and see if there is anything we need to do to
protect ourselves as far as payment schedules, performance of work. I
know that it is already being looked into, but I kind of feel bad that
we didn't do it already.
City Manager: I think, I think, since it is necessary for me to
comment on that, and basically, there was an article in the San
Francisco Chronicle which indicated that Sally Swanson and Associates
have filed for bankruptcy under Chapter 7. And when it was brought to
my attention, obviously, I was quite concerned about it because she
had come highly recommended and well regarded and had a number of
contracts with cities throughout the State of California, including
the State, and a number of others, Veterans' Administration, and a
number of other contracts. Very highly regarded for the work she has
done, so I was quite concerned. We immediately contacted her and what
we found out was, in fact, that during 1986 a number of contracts
which she had executed were - -which did not have protection provisions
in them -- were unilaterally cancelled. And interestingly enough, they
were contracts primarily with public jurisdictions who, after entering
into the contract, as I said for one reason or another, cancelled out.
Either the appropriations were not made to fund the contract, because
some of them were with the State and so forth. So she had based upon
some of those contracts had a business plan. And as a result of that,
she had to go to her creditors , and she had borrowed money to carry
out the business plan. She went to creditors and asked them to
reschedule. There happen to be one creditor that refused to
reschedule her debts and she negotiated over an extended period of
time with that creditor. Finally she was advised by her attorney that
the best course of action would be to file bankruptcy. The day she
filed bankruptcy that creditor realizing that - -by the way it was not
Chapter 7 it was Chapter 13- -which is a partnerhship personal. It is
equivalent - -I think you know what it is, so I won't be labor that- -
and the minute she filed bankruptcy on the advice of her attorney, the
creditor came in and said o.k. I guess we will negotiate with you.
And , in a fact, she has withdrawn and she has not filed bankruptcy.
So they have not gone through it, and she is, in effect, is not, her
company, is not in bankruptcy at the current time. When we became
aware of that, of course we met with her and we established criteria
for performance. We also went back and checked with each one of the
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people she indicated--we had checked previously on her references--we
asked for a new list of clients; we went back and checked each one of
those clients to make sure that she was actively engaged in the
contract and so forth and we were satisfied at that time that there is
no problem there. We have instituted administratively controls on
this. Mr. Norton has done that, and met with her. We have points of
time along throughout the contract where, before she is paid she is
going to be required to provide the product, and the Council will be
involved in what those products are. I think in the final analysis
all the references indicate that the work she does is outstanding, and
the experience we have had with her so far has been that she has done
outstanding work for us; she, her firm, had some business problems in
1986, those problems are cleared up. She is not in bankruptcy.
want to make that clear. She, her firm, has not filed bankruptcy, and
when she did file--when she did submit an intent or notice to file
bankruptcy--it was misprinted in the paper. So that is all we have to
offer. We can put that in writing, if you would like a formal report
on it, but we feel confident she can do the work. And her work-- and
she continues to get excellent references.