1985-10-15 Regular CC Minutessoy
REGULAR MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA
HELD TUESDAY - - - - - - - - - - - - OCTOBER 15, 1985
The meeting convened at 7:36 p.m. (at the conclusion of the Community
Improvement Commission) with President Diament presiding. The Pledge
of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Lucas. Reverend Doug Henderson
(retired) gave the Invocation.
ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef and
President Diament - 5.
Absent: None.
MINUTES
Councilmember Monsef moved for approval of the minutes of the
special Council meeting held September 30, 1985, and the regular
Council meeting held October 1, 1985; Councilmember Hanna seconded
the motion. Minutes of September 30, 1985, were approved with four
ayes; Councilmember Lucas abstained due to her absence from that
meeting. Minutes of October 1, 1985, were approved by unanimous
voice vote - 5.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Lucas moved for adoption of the Consent Calendar with
the exception of two items that were transferred to the regular
calendar at the request of a citizen; Councilmember Hanna seconded
the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk ( *).
REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
*85 -602 From Finance Director on City's Investment Portfolio as of
September 30, 1985. Approved.
*85 -603 From Recreation and Parks Director recommending
acceptance of work done by R. L. Enterprises for the construction of
Phase II, Mastick Senior Center, P.W. No. 8- 84 -22. Approved.
RESOLUTIONS
*85 -604 Resolution No. 10743 "Authorizing execution of agreement
with Alameda Marina Village Associates for Project Administrative
Services, Assessment District 84 -3." Adopted.
*85 -605 Resolution No. 10744 "Awarding contract to O. C. Jones and
Sons for Assessment District 84 -3, Marina Village Parkway, 'Challenger
Drive' and Atlantic Avenue, Project No. 3, and authorizing execution
thereof." (P.W. No. 9- 85 -31.) Adopted.
*85 -606 Resolution No. 10745 "Authorizing execution of agreement
with Pacific Bell for construction of telephone facilities within
Harbor Bay Business Park, Assessment District 84 -4." Adopted.
October 15, 1985
606
*85-607 Resolution No. 10746 "Adopting Plans and Specifications
for landscape improvements for Parcel 3, Parcel Map 4507, Assessment
District 84-4, Harbor Bay Business Park, calling for bids and
directing City Clerk to advertise same." (P.W. No. 7-85-22.)
Adopted.
*85-608 Resolution No. 10747 "Rejecting all bids for traffic
signal modification at the intersection of Lincoln Avenue/Marshall Way
and Fifth Street, P.W. No. 8-85-30, and authorizing the Public Works
Director to negotiate in the open market for the construction of said
Project." Adopted.
*85-609 Resolution No. 10748 "Awarding contract to George E.
Masker, Inc. for painting hallways of the City Hall and
authorizing execution thereof, and appropriating General Fund monies
for required additional funding of the Project." (P.W. No.
7-85-21.) Adopted.
*85-610 Resolution No. 10749 "Authorizing execution of a
Lump Sum Operating Agreement with Security Pacific National Bank."
Adopted.
*85-611 Resolution No. 10750 "Authorizing open market purchase
of equipment for the Golf Course Division of the Recreation and
Parks Department." Adopted.
*85-612 Resolution No. 10751 "Authorizing open market purchase of
a mower for the Golf Course Division of the Recreation and Parks
Department." Adopted.
*85-613 Resolution No. 10752 "Authorizing open market purchase of
a vehicle for the Parks Division of the Recreation and Parks
Department." Adopted.
*85-614 Resolution No. 10753 "Authorizing open market purchase of
a service vehicle for the Recreation Division of the Recreation and
Parks Department." Adopted.
*85-615 Resolution No. 10754 "Authorizing extension of agreement
with Sight and Insight for sublease of Room 108 of the Mastick Senior
Center Complex." Adopted.
*85-616 Resolution No. 10755 "Adopting Plans and Specifications
for contracting of landscape maintenance of the Island City
Landscaping and Lighting District, Assessment District 84-2 (Harbor
Bay Business Park Zone 5), calling for bids and directing City Clerk
to advertise same." Adopted.
*85-617 Resolution No. 10756 "Rejecting all bids for the
renovation of Krusi Park 'Tot Lot' and authorizing negotiation on the
open market for construction of said Project." Adopted.
*85-618 Resolution No. 10757 "Authorizing execution of an
agreement with the State of California Department of Boating &
Waterways for improvement of facilities at the Alameda Boat Ramp and
Fishing Facility." Adopted.
October 15, 1985
607
*85 -619 Resolution No. 10758 "Awarding contract to Anchor Fence
Company of San Leandro for fencing Mif Albright Par 3 Golf Course and
authorizing execution thereof." Adopted.
BILLS
*85 -620 A List of Claims, certified by the City Manager as correct,
was approved in the amount of $7,147,341.25.
RETURN TO REGULAR AGENDA
Councilmember Monsef moved that the following two items be taken out
of order at this time; the motion was seconded by Councilmember
Hanna, and carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
RESOLUTIONS
85 -621 Resolution No. 10759 "Reappointing Arnold S. Davis a
member of the Golf Commission."
It was moved by Councilmember Monsef, and seconded by Councilmember
Lucas, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
85 -622 Resolution No. 10760 "Reappointing Frederick W. Leitz, Jr.
a member of the Recreation Commission."
Councilmember Hanna moved, and Councilmember Corica seconded the
motion, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to Mr. Davis.
(Mr. Leitz was not present.)
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
85 -623 From Ervin Maslonkowski, 317 Spruce Street, opposing
improvement of Spruce Street as proposed.
Councilmember Hanna moved that this item be considered in conjunction
with the following hearing; motion seconded by Councilmember Lucas,
and carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
HEARINGS
85 -624 Hearing to overrule protests and ordering street
improvements on Spruce Street east of Third Street.
The Public Works Director noted that Council had adopted a resolution
of intention to require the proposed street improvements and set the
hearing for August 20, 1985. The hearing was opened at that time and
continued to October 15, 1985, to allow time for possible redesign.
In the interim, meetings have been held with property owners; and the
Public Works Director stated the revised design is acceptable to the
majority of property owners.
October 15, 1985
608
President Diament called for comments from proponents; there were
none.
On the call for opponents, the following speakers addressed Council:
Ervin Maslonkowski, 317 Spruce Street;
Woody Minor, 1432 Benton Street; and
Ludean Oviatt, 312 Spruce Street.
Major concerns expressed by property owners were in regard to the
financial burden. Mr. Minor addressed the historical significance of
the neighborhood.
The public hearing was closed.
Councilmember Hanna suggested that specific interest rates and terms
be included in property owners' agreements.
Councilmember Corica commented that this street has been a problem for
many years; he did not believe the street width should be compromised
because of an existing building. It was Councilmember Corica's hope,
however, that better financial arrangements could be made for
property owners. He urged that staff carefully evaluate costs, but
he stated the street should be improved.
Councilmember Lucas emphasized that the historical building in
question would be preserved even though a portion of it would be
removed and relocated.
It was moved by Councilmember Hanna, and seconded by Councilmember
Monsef, that the resolution pertaining to this matter be taken cut of
order at this time. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
RESOLUTIONS
85-625 Resolution No. 10961 "Overruling objections to notice to
construct street improvements on Spruce Street east of Third Street
and authorizing Superintendent of Streets to cause said work to he
performed.
Councilmember Hanna moved, and Councilmember Monsef seconded thn
motion, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried as
follows: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef and
President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
Councilmember Hanna moved that assistance be made available to the
property owners who are unable to pay at this time by allowing them to
enter into an agreement with the City to pay for their improvements at
the time of transfer or sale of their property, plus the accrued
interest at the rate of 7 percent based upon the increase in the value
of their property between the County Assessor's value of March 1,
1986, and the new assessment after the transfer of the property.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion, clarifying that the 7
percent is an annual rate. The motion carried by unanimous voice
vote - 5.
October 15, 1985
60
APPEALS
85-626 Appeal of Planning Board decision to deny Variance V-85-20
at 812 Taylor Avenue to permit an existing house to be raised 3 feet.
Appellant: Michael Rombs.
The Planning Director reviewed the facts pertaining to this
application. The application was denied by the Planning Board based
on the finding that the proposed intensity of development would result
in inadequate usable, private open space for each living unit.
Councilmember Lucas commented she was concerned that granting the
requested variance may increase density, when City-wide downzoning to
R2 is being contemplated. The Planning Director clarified that the
variance would not technically allow any increase in density, but
would allow the applicant to utilize the maximum density now
permitted on the site. Under the current zoning, the Planning
Director stated the applicant could construct a duplex at the rear of
the property without the need for a variance to do so.
Councilmember Corica remarked that Measure A had, in fact, downzoned
the City to R2. He stated he was not interested in creating
additional density if the actual square footage required is
not available to accommodate the project.
At President Diament's request, the City Attorney explained the
appeal process. He stated that speakers should argue from the record
of the Planning Board as to whether or not that record supports the
Planning Board's action.
President Diament opened the issue to public comment.
Michael Rombs, 2521 Otis Drive, applicant and appellant; and Charles
Dennis, 1455 Los Velinos, Walnut Creek, the architect for the project;
spoke in support of the appeal.
The architect stated that the Planning Board found the project to be
satisfactory but based their denial on the concern that open space was
inadequate. Mr. Dennis emphasized that all open space requirements
have been met, and he did not believe this information had been made
clear at the Planning Board meeting. Mr. Dennis also pointed out
that the current Zoning Ordinance would permit construction of four
units on the site without the need for a variance application. The
variance was requested in order to upgrade the project and preserve
an existing victorian house on the property. Mr. Dennis stressed
that the neighbor to the right who would be most affected is in favor
of the project; there is a five-unit apartment building to the left.
The following speakers opposed the appeal:
David Baker, 939 Taylor Avenue; and Leonard Stanton, 931 Taylor
Avenue.
President Diament closed the public portion of the appeal.
Councilmember Lucas expressed concern regarding the lack of parking
for the number of units proposed due to existence of the first unit
prior to current parking space regulations. Staff clarified that no
parking variance would be required in connection with the proposal.
October 15, 1985
610
Councilmember Lucas questioned staff's interpretation of the
Ordinance, and she stated she did not believe this many units sh-Yald
be added when there is inadequate parking for the original unit.
In response to Councilmember Monsef's inquiry, the Planning Director
clarified that open space requirements for the front upper unit would
not technically be met since the open space there would be used for
access. According to staff's calculations, the minimum required open
space is available at the ground level. However, it was the
distribution of the open space to the units that was of concern to
the Planning Board.
Councilmember Lucas noted that the basement (previously used as :n
apartment) has a 6-foot-high ceiling, and she questioned that this
could be used as a living unit. The City Manager clarified thlt
adherence to the Uniform Building Code is required when substandard
conditions are found. The Planning Director noted that raising the
building to accommodate the required ceiling height requires the
requested variance.
Councilmember Corica moved that Council uphold the Planning Board
decision to deny the variance based on the finding that the intInsity
of development would result in inadequate private, usable open npace.
Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion, which carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Lucas and Monsef - 3.
Noes: Councilmember Hanna and President Diament - 2. Absent: None.
President Diament opposed the motion because the project was
supported by the immediate neighbor, and she believed it would he a
good addition to the neighborhood.
Councilmember Hanna questioned that the finding of inadequate opn
space was appropriate if the City's open space requirements were met.
The City Attorney explained that the term "open space" as cited in the
finding is more general than the technical definition of open Bpe in
the Zoning Ordinance. The Planning Director added that the P1-,nning
Board's concern was that the distribution of the open space would
favor the new rear duplex almost to the exclusion of the front 117it.
REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
85-627
1984-85.
From City Manager regarding Program Performance Reviey
The City Manager stated that goals and objectives are submitted by
each department as a part of the regular budget process, along with a
progress report in relation to specific goals. He noted that a
strategic planning process is being developed.
Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, expressed the opinion that the
report may not represent an objective critique of performance. He
raised three specific issues:
(1) Page 1, City Manager's Objective No. 1, regarding economic
development. Mr. Scullin stated that particular emphasis has
not been placed on historical business districts, but has been
concentrated on new major developments.
(2) Page 36, Library Objective No. 2, regarding Library hours.
Mr. Scullin questioned that this objective has been achieved as
indicated, stating that the Library is open few hours in the
October 15, 1985
(3)
6 1 1
week.
Page 37, Community Development Objective No. 4, concerning
revitalization of downtown and neighborhood commercial areas.
Mr. Scullin stated that not much has been done for historical
preservation in the downtown area. He was concerned regarding
plans to redecorate the interior of the Masonic Hall. He also
suggested that efforts continue to preserve original street
lights.
With respect to economic development, Councilmember Corica observed
that it is easier to plan new developments; and it is more difficult
to become involved with existing, privately owned buildings although
the City is attempting to move in that direction.
President Diament cited examples of historical preservation, such as
the Main Street Economic Development Program and through the
Historical Advisory Commission.
Councilmember Lucas expressed appreciation for staff's efforts,
particularly the downzoning project. She inquired when Sign
Ordinance enforcement efforts would be undertaken. Staff explained
that an additional staff position has been approved for the Planning
Department and will include responsibility for enforcement.
Councilmember Monsef referred to Page 28, Public Works Objective No.
4, to replace street name signs. He also inquired as to the status of
parking control signs for street sweeping. The Public Works Director
noted that new street name signs have been ordered and installation
will commence when they are received. A program has been instituted
by posting signs to request no parking at certain times in some
locations to accommodate street sweeping; the program will be made
mandatory if voluntary efforts are not successful.
Councilmember Corica moved that Council accept the report; the motion
was seconded the Councilmember Hanna, and carried by unanimous voice
vote - 5.
85-628 From Community Development Director regarding Three-Year
Housing Assistance Plan.
Councilmember Corica stated that he is in agreement with plans to
rehabilitate existing housing but is opposed to a plan which would
increase the housing stock in Alameda. Councilmember Corica also
noted that the plan indicates special consideration will be afforded
to senior citizens, and he questioned that senior citizens' needs have
been neglected in the past.
President Diament clarified that lower income senior citizens are
being priced out of rental housing, and it is intended to look more
specifically at their needs.
The City Manager added that this plan will be aimed toward smaller
housing units as opposed to larger family units as in the past and
will, therefore, be better targeted to senior citizen housing needs.
October 15, 1985
612
Councilmember Lucas concurred with concerns expressed by
Councilmember Corica and stated that Alameda provides a very 1:.cth
percentage of housing to low-income people. Councilmember Lucas
offered a motion that the proposed plan not be followed, and
Councilmember Corica seconded the motion.
The Community Development Director explained that the City is
required to file a Housing Assistance Plan. She suggested that if
Council opposes the plan prepared by staff, an alternate plan YP
approved. This plan could consist of the stated goal of 31
owner-occupied single-family units (rehabilitation of existim
units), plus the 25 renter rehabilitated units which are in existing
small rental buildings (adding no additional units), and adding cix
units that Council has committed to Alameda Marina Village Assacates.
Councilmember Lucas withdrew her original motion, with concurrence
of Councilmember Corica who had seconded the motion, and moved that
the Housing Assistance Plan be amended to eliminate 31 additicriLl
units; Councilmember Corica seconded the revised motion. The mGtion
carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
Note: Council recessed briefly at this time.
RESOLUTIONS
85-629 Resolution No. 10762 "Approving the Application and
the Project Agreement for Historic Preservation Grant Funds fo: the
structural rehabilitation of the City Hall for Seismic Safety 1?roject
from the California Park and Recreational Facilities Act of 1:14,"
Councilmember Hanna moved, and Councilmember Monsef seconded the
motion, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Mcrsef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
85-630 Resolution No. 10763 "Approving the Application and -me
Project Agreement for Historic Preservation Grant Funds for erxior
rehabilitation of the Main Library Building from the California Park
and Recreational Facilities Act of 1984."
Councilmember Monsef moved for adoption of the resolution, and
Councilmember Hanna seconded the motion. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Mcncef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
85-631 Resolution No. 10764 "Determining unpaid assessment
and providing for issuance of bonds (second sale), Marina Village
Assessment District 84-3."
It was moved by Councilmember Hanna, and seconded by Councilmember
Monsef, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Mcrcef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
October 15, 1985
6 1 3
85-632 Resolution No. 10765 "Awarding sale of bonds, Marina
Village Assessment District 84-3 (second sale)."
Councilmember Hanna moved, and Councilmember Lucas seconded the
motion, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
85-:633 Resolution No. 10766 "Appointing an Election Board for Bay
Farm Island Reclamation District No. 2105, General Election, November
5, 1985."
John Barnard, legal counsel for the Reclamation District, was present
to respond to any inquiries.
Councilmember Hanna moved, and Councilmember Monsef seconded the
motion, that the resolution be adopted. The motion carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef
and President Diament 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
Charles J. McNeil was appointed to serve as inspector and Joyce
Harris and Robert Adams were appointed judges for the election of
Trustees of Bay Farm Island Reclamation District No. 2105.
The following resolutions were removed from the agenda:
85-634 Resolution No. "Approving agreement between the
CitY and the Alameda Unified School District regarding payment of debt
seivice requirements in relation to the Swimming Pool Rehabilitation
Project."
85-635 Resolution No. "Authorizing acceptance of bids and
awarding contract for the Swimming Pool Rehabilitation Project."
85-636 Resolution No. "Authorizing agreement between City
and School District regarding maintenance and operations of the
Alameda and Encinal Swim Centers."
The following items were removed from the Consent Calendar:
85-637 Resolution No. 10767 "Approving Final Map of subdivision
knoWn as Tract 5348 and accepting certain easements and rights of
access (Heritage of Alameda, located south of Oleander Avenue and
Melrose Avenue, The Alameda Associates, subdivider)."
85-638 Resolution No. 10768 "Authorizing execution of agreement
for construction and completion of improvements in connection with
Subdivision 5348 and approving bonds as to sufficiency (The Alameda
Associates, subdivider) ."
These items were removed from the Consent Calendar at the request of
Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, who noted that the staff report
refers to the subdivider as A.M. Company, while the agenda indicates
The Alameda Associates. Staff clarified that the subdivider was
formerly known as The Alameda Associates, but the company name was
changed to A.M. Company.
October 15, 1985
6 1 4
Councilmember Hanna moved for adoption of the above two resolutions.
Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion, which carried by the
following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Moref
and President Diament - 5. Noes: None. Absent: None.
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES
85-639 Ordinance No. , N.S. "Approving, authorizing and
directing execution of certain lease financing documents, authnrizing
and directing execution of purchase agreement, approving a preliminary
official statement, and authorizing and directing certain actors with
respect thereto in relation to the Swimming Pool Rehabilitation
Project." (Emergency Ordinance.)
The above proposed introduction of ordinance was removed from this
agenda.
85-640 Ordinance No. 2251, N.S. "Authorizing the Transmission
Agency of Northern California to issue revenue bonds, notes and other
evidences of indebtedness. (Emergency Ordinance.)
Edwin Dankworth, representing the Public Utilities Board, urged that
Council adopt the ordinance.
Councilmember Monsef moved that the ordinance be introduced and
adopted as an emergency measure; the motion was seconded by
Councilmember Corica, and carried by the following vote: Ayes:
Councilmembers Corica, Hanna, Lucas, Monsef and President Diament - 5.
Noes: None, Absent: None.
NEW BUSINESS
85-641 Councilmember Lucas referred to a letter addressed to
Council from St. Joseph Basilica requesting permanent closure of
Chestnut Street between the north side of San Jose Avenue and the
south side of San Antonio. She suggested that this request be
referred to the Traffic Advisory Committee for review and scheduled
for a future Council agenda. Council concurred that the matter should
be handled accordingly.
85-642 Councilmember Hanna addressed the issue of undergrounding
priorities and asked if it is the intent that undergrounding should be
accomplished during Spruce Street construction. He inquired if an
undergrounding district would be required for that purpose. The
Public Works Director explained the procedure that would be followed
in connection with establishing an undergrounding district.
Councilmember Lucas stated the whole matter is scheduled to come
before the Council on November 5, 1985. The City Manager confirmed
that there is adequate time to consider that issue in connection with
improvement of Spruce Street.
85-643 Councilmember Corica noted that signs have been ordered
and approved by the Police Department in connection with the
Neighborhood Crime Watch Program. The Planning Department staff is
reportedly of the opinion that there are too many signs, and the
Police Department wishes to have as many of the signs as possible.
October 15, 1985
6 1 5
Calicilmember Corica stated he was in support of the signs to offer
protection to citizens. He requested that this matter be scheduled
a Council agenda for discussion. President Diament concurred with
Councilmember Corica and commented that perhaps the signs could be
condensed.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council, President
DILwent adjourned the meeting at 9:55 p.m. The next regular
Coulicil meeting was scheduled for November 5, 1985.
Respectfully submitted,
4 ir • --
Diane B. Felsch
City Clerk
October 15, 1985