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1966-03-01 Regular CC MinutesREGULAR MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA HELD TUESDAY EVENING MARCH- 1, 1966 The meeting convened at 7:30 o'clock p.m. with President Godfrey presiding. The Pledge of Alle- giance was led by Councilman Bartley and was followed by an inspiring Invocation delivered by The Reverend Mr. H. W. Van Delinder, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church. ROLL CAL The roll was called and Councilmen Bartley, La Croix, Jr., McCall, Rose and President Godfrey, (5), were noted present. Absent: None. MINUTES: 1. The minutes of the regular meeting held February 15, 1966, were approved as transcribed. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: 2.1 From Frank Bonetti, Inc., Plumbing Contractor, signed by Mr. Bonetti, requesting the refund of $219., an over - payment for permits for certain work in the building known as 435 Buena Vista Avenue. It was understood this reimbursement was in order, and Councilman Rose moved the request be granted and the sum of $219. be refunded to this firm. The motion was seconded by Councilman McCall and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 3Y From Alameda Unified School District, signed by Mr. Charles A. Briscoe, Assistant Secretary, requesting cancellation of City taxes on certain property acquired for public purposes. This was for the expansion of Haight School. The matter was referred to "Resolutions ". 4. From Davis & Craig, Attorneys for Reclamation District No. 2105, requesting approval of warrant in the amount of $220,000. to reimburse the Revolving Fund of the District, This matter, too, was referred to "Resolutions ". 5.V From the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, signed by Mr. Clarence Gilmore, and Citizen Committee on Low -Rent Housing, signed by Mrs. Mabel Tatum, with regard to the Estuary Housing Project situation and expressing the belief that units should be made available in either Western or Makassar Straits Village Housing Projects for relocation of these families. The President stated he had been told that the Housing Authority of the City of Alameda had been act- ing as agents for the owners of this project (Messrs. B. H. Moscini, L. A. Martino, N. A. Crisafi, etcetera, etcetera). When it became known that part of this property was going to be taken over by the Navy, the Housing Authority had written to each family in this area to ascertain if they wished to be relocated in the five -acre. parcel which would remain. There were forty -three families to be relocated. President Godfrey noted Mr. Gilmore and Mrs. Tatum were present and might wish to speak on the subject under "Oral Communications ". 6:l From Alameda Junior Woman's Club, signed by Mrs. William Kenney, President, extending an invita- tion to the City Council to attend the tree - planting ceremony•at Alameda Memorial State Beach on Saturday, March 12, at 1:00 o'clock. The Clerk was instructed to acknowledge said invitation and indicate that the Mayor of the City and the Vice President of the Council would be_in attendance at this affair. Also, the other Council- men planned to attend if possible. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: 7/ Mr. Clarence Gilmore, 1853 Eighth Street, addressed the Council at great length on behalf of the families remaining in the Estuary Housing Project. He related in detail the attempts made by hi°s organization to work through the Housing Authority with the owners of the property to procure ade- quate housing - but to no avail. Mr. Gilmore expressed the thinking that the problem could be solved through an agreement between the City and the U. S. Navy that the City would have priority for civilian personnel in either Western or Makassar Straits Village Housing Project. He pointed out they could get no response from Mr. Moscini. President Godfrey recalled that he had worked on the matter of obtaining some priority in "Western "" or "Makassar" about a year and a half ago. He explained that he had discussed the situation with the - Twelfth Naval District and it had agreed to cooperate but had said it would take time to establish as there was quite a long waiting list. With the Viet Nam situation at present, he felt it would take even longer. It was developed there were many ramifications of the problem of adequately housing these families in this remaining area of Estuary. It was suggested the City pursue the possibilities of housing these people in Western or Makassar Housing Projects - ascertain what the waiting list was and what the priority situation would be. President Godfrey also explained there were certain restrictions involved due to the contracts between the Housing Authority and the Twelfth Naval District for the use of Western and Makassar Projects. However, he said he would pursue the matter by contacting Admiral Taylor of the Twelfth Naval District and discuss the contract in effect with the Housing Authority covering Makassar Straits Village. 499 President Godfrey stated he felt that if the City Council had been supported by the Clergymen, the Housing Authority and the N. A. A. C. P. some time ago, in its efforts to procure proper housing for the families in Estuary Housing Project, the circumstances would be different at this time. Mrs. Mabel Tatum, 105-A Singleton Avenue, spoke on the same subject and pleaded for the City Council to use its influence to find adequate housing for these families who were economically distressed and who wanted to continue to live in the City of Alameda. 8 Mr. Lawrence Patton, 1020 San Antonio Avenue, inquired if the City had taken any action with regard to the grade separation at Atlantic Avenue and Webster Street. This had been brought up by him at the last Council meeting by reference to a letter written March 15, 1949, to Mayor Branscheid by Mr. C. H. Purcell, Director of Public Works Department of the State of California.. President Godfrey rep lied that no action had been taken insofar as he knew. Mr. Patton stated he had made a trip to Sacramento recently to check into this matter and had dis- covered that no one knew anything about it. He said, however, he had been informed that the City of Alameda could write to District IV of the Department of Public Works in San Francisco, requesting that an immediate appraisal of this situation be made. Mr. Patton then read a letter he had prepared, dated March 1, 1966, requesting the City Council to instruct the City Manager to immediately write to the District Engineer, asking that an immediate reappraisal be made of the traffic congestion at Webster Street and Atlantic Avenue, with the end result of constructing a grade separation at this intersection as soon as time would permit. President Godfrey told Mr. Patton to give the letter to the City Clerk and it would go through the proper channels. Mr. Patton then reiterated his question about the expenditure of C ity funds last year to pay for cer- tain chartered busses to take interested citizens to Sacramento for a meeting concerning the southern crossing and the proposed bridge terminus in Alameda. Upon inquiry of City Attorney Cunningham, he answered that his ruling remained the same as when the question had first been posed last year. He stated he had checked into the law quite carefully at that time and he gave his opinion that the money had been validly spent. He emphasized the City can legally spend money to oppose or support legislation. Mr. Patton reviewed the circumstances of the meeting and trip in question at great length. The Presi- dent clarified the situation by relating the history of the case. However, Mr. Patton still contended those who were opposed to the proposed southern crossing bridge were given preferential treatment and the matter had not been handled in an ethical manner. , 9/ Mr. Frank Gottstein, 731 Haight Avenue, referred to the City's proposal to design a new firehouse and select a site therefor. He suggested the City Manager and the Fire Chief inspect some of the new firehouses in Oakland and, possibly, be able to save some architectural fees by using some of these plans. He also suggested that when the new fire house was constructed it include public lava- tory facilities which could be built in and maintained more economically than similar facilities in the public parks. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS, ETCETERA: 10. From Recreation and Parks Commission, signed by Mr. Raymond P. Kranelly, Chairman, in notifica- tion of the change of meeting time of said Commission - from the second Tuesday to the second Thursday of each month - still at 7:30 o'clock p.m. This information was noted by the City Council. 11. From City Manager, recommending contract be awarded to Mr. Clifford W. Greer, low bidder, for the project of Replacing an Existing Culvert at Fernside Boulevard and Liberty Avenue, at the total cost of $8,231.50. Councilman Rose moved the recommendation be adopted; that contract be awarded to Mr. Greer for the specified project at the price quoted. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. / 12. V From City Manager, recommending contract be awarded to 0. C. Jones & Sons, low bidder, for the project of Reconstructing Culverts on Encinal Avenue from Pearl Street to Fountain Street, at the total cost of $49,226.50. Councilman Rose moved the recommendation be followed; that contract be awarded to the designated firm for the specified project at the price quoted. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 13. From City Manager, recommending contract be awarded to Gallagher & Burk, Inc., low bidder, for the project of Reconstructing Culverts at Fifth Street and Taylor Avenue and at Everett Street and Webb Avenue, at the total cost of $20,617.85. Councilman Rose moved the recommendation be adopted; that contract be awarded to the firm indicated for the project set forth at the price quoted. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 14. From City Manager, recommending contract be awarded to T. Sartwell, dba A-1 Able Cement and Concrete, low bidder, for the project of Installing Exposed Aggregate Concrete at Encinal Swim Center, at the total cost of $1,857.90. Councilman Rose moved the recommendation be approved; that contract be awarded to said firm for the project specified at the price quoted. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 300 15'' City Attorney, recommending and requesting that the City Council authorize the City Attorney to dismiss of record a proceeding filed in the Superior Court entitled, "City of Alameda vs Regents of the University of California," and numbered 282564 in the files therein. This concerned the con- demnation action filed on June 13, 1957, relating to a twenty-five-foot strip sewer easement to provide for discharge of sewage from Estuary Housing Project. Upon request, Mr. Cunningham explained the legal technicalities involved in this case. Councilman Rose then moved the recommendation be adopted and the City Attorney be authorized to dismiss said proceeding. Councilman La Croix seconded the motion which was carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 16. From the Library Board, signed by Mr. Carl W. Hamilton, Librarian, submitting an inquiry about the possibility of funds in the amount of $300,000. being "earmarked" for expansion of the Main Library, as a portion of the total Capital Improvement Program presently under study. This was accom- panied by a resume of pertinent information about the Alameda Free Library Building. It was pointed out that certain Federal Funds were available under the Library Services and Construction Act which could provide one-third of the total cost of such construction. However, three actions were necessary as prerequisites to qualifying for said funds: (1) Local funds must be earmarked; (2) Staff must be directed to find an architect and consultant who could produce pre-preliminary drawings rapidly and (3) Staff must be authorized to prepare the documents and file the application by April 15, 1966. Councilman McCall referred to a report on the Library which had been compiled by a former member of the Library Board, Mr. Stuart B. Dobson, in 1961. He also questioned if the existing location of the main Library was the most advantageous. He strongly believed that the City needed a Civic Center of some kind which could then include a Library within the complex. It was developed there were many questions on such a project with not sufficient time in which to ascertain all the facts. Mr. Donald Bruzzone, President of the Library Board, reported on the thinking of the Board members in this respect. After further discussion, it was agreed there was not adequate time to complete the necessary require- ments, especially in view of the doubt about the present location being the best for future develop- ment. Therefore, Councilman Rose moved that certain funds not be earmarked for Library expansion at this time. The motion was seconded by Councilman McCall and carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. It was pointed out this action in no way prejudiced the figures which now prevailed in the Capital Outlays study. V/ 17. At this time, The Reverend Mr. Robert Lewis of the First Congregational Church was called upon. He referred to the situation concerning the families in the Estuary Housing Project and the discussion which had been had earlier in the meeting. He urged the President to set forth some concrete proposals about just what the Clergy could do to support the City in this particular case and he, personally, pledged his support in any endeavors. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 18. President Godfrey reported that he and Vice President Rose had attended the annual meeting of the Association of Bay Area Governments at Hotel Claremont last Friday, February 25. He referred to a booklet which contained reports of all committees and activities of ABAG, and which had been read at this General Assembly meeting. The President distributed copies to all of the Councilmen. He felt it had been well attended. 19 The President then announced the "ground rules" for the conduct of the special meeting of.the Council to be held Tuesday evening, March 8, 1966, at 7:00 o'clock, in the Council Chamber. The meeting would immediately be adjourned to the Alameda High School Little Theater in order to accom- modate all those interested in hearing and seeing the presentation by Mr. E. R. Foley, Chief Engi- neer of the Division of Bay Toll Crossings, of information pertinent to the proposed southern cross- ing of San Francisco Bay. RESOLUTIONS: 20. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman La Croix, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. Cancelling City Taxes on Property Acquired by the Alameda Unified School District for Public Purposes." (Expansion of Haight School) The motion was seconded by Councilman Bartley. Speaking on the question, Councilman McCall inquired about whether or not the several buildings on the properties being acquired by the "District" were still occupied and rent being received. The City Attorney explained that the District's ownership was clear and taxes were uncollectible from a public agency. However, it was not known if rental was being charged and, therefore, it was sug- gested this point be ascertained before action, was taken on this resolution. With the consent of Councilman Bartley, the second, Councilman La Croix withdrew his motion and said resolution was laid over to the next meeting. The City Manager was to investigate this matter. 21. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman Bartley, who moved its adoption: 501 "Resolution No. 6920 Declaring Intention to Order Vacation of Portion of Tilden Way, Formerly Railroad Avenue (Five-Foot Strip Adjoining Lots 2 and 3, Block C, Alameda Station Homestead Tract)." (Hearing date to be April 5, 1966) The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman La Croix. Speaking on the question, Councilman McCall questioned the proposed use of the area involved under some kind of lease arrangement with the Southern Pacific Company. The City Engineer explained the circum- stances prevailing in this case. Further, Mr. Watson, Assistant City Manager, also pointed up the advantage of relieving the City of maintenance responsibilities in view of the fact that the City had no present or prospective use for this small area. City Attorney Cunningham emphasized, too, that certain facts would have to be determined at the Hear- ing on this matter. He also explained certain legal technicalities involved. Following discussion, the question was put and the motion carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Four. Noes: Councilman McCall, (1). Absent: None. 22. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman Rose, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. 6921 Approving Warrant No. 106 of the Board of Trustees of Reclamation District No. 2105." The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman McCall and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Four. Noes: Councilman La Croix, (1). Absent: None. 23. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman La Croix, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. 6922 Adopting Specifications, Special Provisions and Plans for Quarry Waste Pathways at Lincoln Park, Calling for Bids and Directing City Clerk to Advertise Same." The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman Bartley and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. The President then declared all of the foregoing resolutions adopted, as indicated. ORDINANCES FOR PASSAGE: 24. "Ordinance No. 1523, New Series An Ordinance Amending Title XIV, Chapter 2, Article 1, of the Alameda Municipal Code, Relating to Fire Zones." Councilman Bartley moved the.ordinance be passed as submitted. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 25. "Ordinance No. 1524, New Series An Ordinance Reclassifying and Rezoning Certain Property Within the City of Alameda by Amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1277, New Series." (Per Map labeled, "North-Central-West Alameda Rezoning Study, Exhibit 'D', Alameda City Planning Department, January, 1966") Councilman McCall moved the ordinance be passed as submitted. The motion was seconded by Councilman Rose and carried on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. FILING: 26. Specifications No. PW 3-66-7 - Project of Installing Quarry Waste Pathways at Lincoln Park. BILLS: 27. An itemized List of Claims against the City of Alameda and the Departments thereof, in the total amount of $46,028.79, was presented to the Council at this meeting. The List was accompanied by certification from the City Manager that the Claims shown were correct. Councilman McCall moved the bills as itemized in the List of Claims filed with the City Clerk on March 1, 1966, and presented to the Council at this meeting, be allowed and paid. The motion was seconded by Councilman La Croix and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 28. At this point, Councilman McCall suggested the City Council, through President Godfrey, as Mayor, write letters of congratulation to The Honorable John Reading, newly-elected Mayor of the City of 502 Oakland, and to The Honorable John Houlihan, Mayor of the City of Oakland, resigned - also extending appreciation for their cooperation during the years of their tenure. ADJOURNMENT: 29. There being no further business to come before the meeting, the Council adjourned to assemble in regular session on Tuesday evening, March 15, 1966, at 7:30 o'clock. Respectfully submitted,