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1957-11-19 Regular CC MInutesREGULAR MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA HELD TUESDAY EVENING, NOVEMBER 19, 1957 The meeting convened at 7:30 o'clock p.m. with President McCall presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was lead by Councilman Freeman, which was followed by a most inspiring Invocation delivered by The Reverend Mr. Johnnie Douglas, Pastor of the Church of the Nazarene. ROLL CALL: The roll was called and Councilmen Collischonn, Freeman, Petersen, Schacht and President McCall, (5), were noted present. Absent: None. MINUTES: 1. The minutes of the regular meeting held November transcribed. 1957, were approved as WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: 2. From the Alameda Chamber of Commerce, calling attention to the recent newspaper article in which it was indicated the Council had discussed the possibility of offer- ing to the State the Maritime Training Station as a State Park. The Chamber urged that every effort be made to get this property on the tax rolls rather than cause an addition to existing taxes. President McCall thanked the Chamber for its letter and stated the natter would be given consideration. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: 3' Mr. Frank Gottstein, 731 Haight Avenue, spoke of the proposal to change the mode of transportation over the San Francisco- Oakland Bay Bridge and establish a shuttle system with the use of busses instead of trains. He felt Alameda should receive some recognition in its transportation problems and he thought the shuttle system would be the proper setup. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES: 4. From the City Manager, requesting authorization to dispose of a 1938 Chevrolet Pickup Truck which is now of no further use to the City. Councilman Collischonn moved the City Manager be authorized to dispose of the speci- fied truck as requested. The motion was seconded by Councilman Freeman and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 5. From the Recreation Commission, signed by Mr. Terry LaCroix, Chairman, recom- mending the Council approve the revised "Rules, Regulations and Hourly Fee Schedules for Public Use of the Bay Farm Island and the Lincoln Park Recreation Centers ". Copies of the Schedules involved had been sent to the members of the Council. Councilman Freeman questioned the inclusion of the Schedule for the Lincoln Park Recreation Center, since it had not been discussed thoroughly - the Council had been concentrating on the Bay Farm Island Recreation Center. She said that, if there is no immediate rush on that phase of the matter, she would like to give it more thought. Mr. Weller pointed out there would be some conflicts in the operation of the two Centers if the revised schedule for Lincoln Park were not adopted simultaneously with that of Bay Farm Island. Mr. Gene Saalwaechter, Director of Recreation, was called upon and stated that in . developing the rates for Bay Farm Island Recreation Center, it became obvious there were certain inconsistencies in relation to Lincoln Park Recreation Center. He, therefore, redeveloped the rates for the latter and also submitted them to the City Manager. Mr. Saalwaechter pointed out the Schedules should be uniform in order to avoid con- fusion in the administration of the Centers. He mentioned that the rules reflect the thinking of the Council as expressed at the recent meeting with the Recreation Commission. Councilman Schacht moved the Rules and Regulations for Public Use of the Bay Farm Island and the Lincoln Park Recreation Centers be approved and adopted as recom- mended by the Commission and the Director of Recreation. The motion was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 6. From the Recreation Commission, signed by Mr. Terry LaCroix, Chairman, recom- mending the Alameda Rotary Club be immediately authorized, in writing, to proceed with its locomotive project in the interim location in the picnic area of Washington Park. It was stated considerable publicity had been given and a public meeting had been held by the Commission to ascertain the reaction of the residents adjacent to the Park with regard to the establishment of said locomotive as a piece of creative play equipment for children. The site as now recommended was approved by those attending the meeting. Councilman Freeman moved the Recreation Commission's recommendation be approved and a letter of authorization be forwarded as soon as possible to the Alameda Rotary Club. The motion was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES: V 7. Councilman Collischonn introduced the following ordinance, after which it was laid over under provision of law and the Charter: "Ordinance No. New Series An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of a Lease to Certain Real Property to the State of California and Approving the Form and Terms Thereof (North End of Grand Street)." Councilman Schacht inquired what the maintenance costs might be in connection with the "angling access area" program proposed for this location. Mr. Weller replied there were no figures available now, but he thought there would be some off - setting income from the facility, through some type of concession operation. At this time, President McCall reviewed the entire situation, pointing out that, through the Wildlife Conservation Board of the State, the City was allocated $24,800. for the construction of the facility at the north end of Grand Street. The improve- ment will be built to the City's specifications and the City will then have the responsibility of its maintenance and operation. President McCall mentioned the City is fortunate to have qualified for the funds to procure such a facility which has been desired for many years - and this is a "golden" opportunity to develop the area. He also stated a lease is being negotiated with the United States Navy for two and one -half acres of land due east of Grand Street for a parking site adjoining the contemplated angling access area. Councilman Freeman reiterated the query as to maintenance expense to the City, other than insurance, to which President McCall replied he could not see how the City could get into any maintenance problem for some time. In response to Councilman Collischonn's question as to the entire cost of the project being covered by the sum of $24,800., Mr. Hanna stated this amount was his estimate for the construction work itself - not the engineering services, which are required to be performed by the City - and he believes the sum mentioned will be adequate for the purpose. Following further questions and discussion concerning the cost to the City of the engineering services, Mr. Hanna stated he felt probably seven per cent of the con- tract price would cover the project. With regard to maintenance expense, Mr. Hanna stated there would be none, with the exception of the upkeep of some signs for instruction of the public in using the ramps. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: 8. Councilman Petersen referred to the Auditor's Financial Statement a s of Octo- ber 31, and said he had noticed fifteen i tems whose budgeted allocations were already overdrawn. He submitted the matter to the City Manager for study and explanation. 9. Councilman Petersen also requested the Council receive financial statements each month covering certain special funds of the City. Mr. Weller stated he would so advise the Auditor's office. RESOLUTIONS: 10. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman Freeman, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. 5717 Resolution of Intention to Order the Vacation of a Portion of Mound Street, in the City of Alameda." The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 11. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman Schacht, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. 5718 Amending Salary Resolution No. 5656 by Adding One Position to the Police Sergeant Classification and Deleting One Position from the Identification Officer Classification; by Adding One Position to the Laborer, Park Department, Classification, and Deleting One Position from the Laborer, Street Department, Classification." The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 12. The following resolution was introduced by Councilman Freeman, who moved its adoption: "Resolution No. 5719 Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement by and Between the City of Alameda and the State of California Relating to the Operation and Mainten- ance of Alameda Angling Access Area (North End of Grand Street)." The motion to adopt said resolution was seconded by Councilman Collischonn and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 13. "Resolution No. 5720 Transferring $,800.00 from Recreation Account No. 151.321 to Recreation Account No. 151.420." Upon request of President McCall, Mr. Weller explained that the action of the Council in authorizing some improvements to the old Golf Course Clubhouse involves, necessar- ily, the acquisition of chairs and tables to properly set up the building for public use. He said it is the recommendation of the Recreation Director this sum be used to purchase one hundred all -steel folding chairs and ten folding banquet tables. Mr. Weller pointed out the fact that, because of the saving effected in the buying of fiscal year recreation supplies, there will be no actual increase in the cost of the Recreation Department operation. In response to questions, Mr. Saalwaechter answered that the cost of this equipment may not amount to $800. - the purchase will be made after a call for quotations, and a lesser cost may result. These are basic needs if the building is to be used by organizations as a Recreation Center. He emphasized these monies are available due to the extremely favorable bid received for furnishing this year's athletic supplies and, therefore, that saving makes it possible for this transfer of funds within the Department. Councilman Petersen referred to the recent re- apportionment of certain budget monies for continued leadership at Longfellow Park, and inquired if this could be main- tained out of the current budget of the Recreation Department, even if the $800. is transferred, as requested. Mr. Saalwaechter replied there is now one Recreation Leader at Longfellow Park which will cost the City $1,850. for the remainder of the fiscal year, and he is attempting to keep a strict budget control in order to accom- plish the absorption of this expense. How successful he will be, he cannot say right now, but so far, his Department has been able to keep within the existing budget. Councilman Petersen expressed the hope the Longfellow operation can be handled with- out materially affecting the budget for this fiscal year, as well as the Recreation Center situation. Mr. Saalwaechter stated his Department is also absorbing the custodial cost of the Bay Farm Island Recreation Center by use of existing personnel in connection with the Alameda Swim Center maintenance. Councilman Freeman asked if the Recreation Center would require any further decora- tion such as window treatment or rugs, to which Mr. Saalwaechter replied, "No, the furnishings will be the very minimum." Councilman Schacht observed that this purchase is, in effect, a capital expenditure from which the City will get a great deal of service throughout the years. Mr. Saalwaechter concurred, pointing out there have already been a number of requests for public use of the Center just during December and he felt the City would derive considerable revenue therefrom. He said it is a good investment from the standpoint of revenue as well as a community service. Councilman Freeman moved the resolution be adopted. The motion was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. President McCall thereupon declared all of the foregoing resolutions duly adopted and passed. 84 ORDINANCES FOR PASSAGE: 14. "Ordinance No. 1255, New Series An Ordinance Amending Title XV, Chapter 7, Article 1, of the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Section 15 -711 Thereof, and Adding Section 15 -716 Thereto, All Relating to Dust Control." Councilman Schacht moved the ordinance be adopted as read. The motion was seconded by Councilman Petersen and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 15. At this point, President McCall brought up the subject of a recent discussion with regard to the request for a change in policy concerning the requirement for "flush curbs" at intersections. He felt it might be well for the Council to take a firm stand one way or the other and have a motion either to adopt a change or to continue with said requirement. He said he thought a decision should be made and suggested a discussion be held at this time. Councilman_Freeman questioned the necessity of such discussion inasmuch as the mat- ter has not been specifically proposed by anyone, but was merely a topic of dis- cussion as to whether or not a change was contemplated. Councilman Petersen stated the question was discussed at a Committee of the Whole meeting following the last Council meeting. Councilman Collischonn stated the City Manager had brought up a point at the time of the previous discussion that perhaps the Council should review a great many of the restrictions, which are placed on builders in the City. He said he, personally, felt very strongly that, while some do like the idea of the flush curbs in the deve- lopment of the City, it is putting a developer to an unnecessary expense. He believes if the standard or conventional type curb were installed in any of the new subdivisions, nine out of ten people would not recognize the difference. He said the City Manager had also pointed out it costs much more to service the flush curbs than the conventional type. He said he was hopeful there would be some figures available in this respect during this discussion to establish the cost of maintenance. Mr. Weller stated the single item of capital cost is largely academic. The mainten- ance cost of the flush curbs, inherently, would be somewhat higher, but how one could measure this cost, he did not know. Upon request, Mr. Hanna briefly reviewed the history of the situation - the number of intersections involved and the approxi- mate comparative costs. Councilman Collischonn stated all are concerned with economy - and if the City has additional curbs and gutters to put in, the Council should bear in mind that if it is possible to save money in such projects, it should be very seriously considered. President McCall pointed out, when certain subdivisions were being planned, there was a large group from the builders' association asking that the City give them some relief from the stringent regulations with regard to putting in flush curbs. He said there had been long dissertations from several representatives concerning the added costs of such a requirement, which other communities did not have. Councilman Freeman inquired why the requirement was not changed at the time this matter was formerly discussed so thoroughly - evidently the contractors and subdivi- ders had pleaded with the Council to change then from the flush -type curb - if it were feasible and better for the City. President McCall stated the Council had listened to all the discussion and had felt that, possibly, in the future if some large developments came in, this requirement would have to be given consideration. He thought that now, with the "tight" money and all of the other developments which have arisen, the Council should take these matters into consideration. Councilman Petersen said he believes Alameda is a first class city - and the resi- dential districts are first class areas - and he wants to keep it that way. He felt flush curbs are an outstanding feature of the community and add to the aesthetic beauty of the City. Councilman Collischonn said he did not think the beauty of a city is judged by its curbs and gutters. He felt it is perfectly ridiculous to continue with this require- ment and penalize builders who want to develop the City by placing a further finan- cial burden on them. Councilman Freeman stated the flush curbs are much more convenient for pedestrians - and they do have advantages. She felt no one is really being "penalized" because the requirement is known by the developer before he starts - it has been a recog- nized requirement for years and the City has never lost a development because of it. President McCall explained the only reason he is bringing the matter up at this time is due to the communication of October 30 from the City Manager who, after discussing the situation with the City Engineer, had submitted this resume and his thinking on the subject. He said he is willing to have the opinions of those who have to work with this situation every day and he felt it was a recommendation from the City Manager to amend this requirement. If the City Manager and City Engineer are opposed to the requirement, he would be opposed to it. He pointed out other cities in the area, which are in competition with Alameda, do not have this regulation.. Councilman Freeman felt the Council did not have sufficient information on the sub- ject as yet. Councilman Petersen reiterated that Alameda is a first class city - and he would like to see Alameda developed properly. The City has these standards and if people are coming in to do a job they should maintain them. President McCall requested the City Manager to give the Council a full report with regard to comparative costs, also including the Engineering Department's inspection and maintenance costs. Mr. Weller stated such a report can be made but he would not want to vouch for its accuracy. He said that, from a practicals tandpoint, it would be impossible to inform the Council, with any degree of accuracy, what the difference in maintenance is. Considerable discussion continued on various aspects of the matter. At this time, President McCall granted Mr. Stanley D. Whitney the privilege of the floor. Mr. Whitney stated the Chamber of Commerce has been very interested in this problem and it is very concerned with what may or may not come about. The Chamber, at a recent meeting, determined to conduct a survey of all East Bay Cities and also Los Angeles, San Jose and Sacramento, to ascertain just how far this flush crosswalk requirement had been carried out. So far as is known at the moment, Alameda seems to be the only city which has gone in for it. He said that, as soon as results are available on this, as well as additional information on costs, the Chamber will see that the Council receives it. He pointed out the Chamber is constantly trying to bring in capital, to bring in people to establish their businesses here - and it has found in recent months, that the climate in Alameda for business is not what might be deemed a pleasant one. He said a situation like this, to a future developer, might very well be the requirement which would scare him away. He referred to the South Shore project - at present a dust bowl - and stated it must be completed with homes which Alameda needs in order to be able to lower the taxes we now have, The City seems unable to get industry to come in, so the next best thing is totry to get the development of the South Shore "on the road ". He said, in his opinion, flush cross- walks are merely a "frill and a fancy" - they are nice if you have the money to buy them. There was further discussion on the question of developers being informed as to what regulations they have to follow in this respect. Councilman Freeman asked if they were not aware that flush curbs were mandatory in this City and Mr. Hanna replied, "Yes, they have been fully advised from the very day they came into the City." Mr. Whitney concluded by stating the City of Alameda so desperately needs new people and new money here that the Council should "bend over backwards" to entice them to come here, instead of throwing out "roadblocks" and establishing rules and regula- tions which are onerous and certainly are unnecessary. Councilman Collischonn stated the City Council and the City of Alameda should now start to encourage, if not urge, development in the near future and if this require- ment is a roadblock, he felt the Council should give serious consideration to elimin- ating it. He stated there is other land to develop here and all ought to be mindful of the fact that the City has not been too encouraging to industry or developers. He thereupon moved that the City abandon the requirement of flush curbs. Councilman Freeman said she felt the Council did not have any information on which to vote. She said the Council has not determined whether or not this requirement is a good thing because it has not had the background on it. She understands it is cheaper to clean a flush curb but admittedly she does not know the economics of all phases of the situation due to the fact the matter was called up just for discussion. She s aid she would like to know the replacement cost to the City, the maintenance cost, convenience to people - the whole picture. Mr. Weller interjected the remark that the advantages and disadvantages of the two types, in his opinion - and he felt the City Engineer would be inclined to agree - are largely academic. There is no substantial sum of money involved. Following further discussion, President McCall requested Vice President Petersen to assume the Chair. Councilman McCall then seconded the motion which Was lost on the following roll call vote. Ayes: Councilmen Collischonn and McCall, (2). Noes: Councilmen Freeman, Schacht and Vice President Petersen, (3). Absent: None. FILING: 16. Auditor's Financial Statement - City of Alameda, as of October 31, 1957 - Verified by George A. Hackleman & Co. 17. Fiscal Year Report - as of June 30, 1957 - by George A. Hackleman & Co. 18. Lease and Agreement - between State of California and City of Alameda - f or Small Boat Ramp at North End of Grand Street. BILLS: 19. An itemized List of Claims against the City of Alameda and the Departments thereof, in the total amount of $75,136.22, was submitted to the Council at this meeting. The list was accompanied by certification from the City Manager that the Claims shown were correct. Councilman Petersen moved the bills as itemized in the List of Claims filed with the City Clerk on November 19, 1957, and presented to the Council at this time, be allowed and paid. The motion was seconded by Councilman Freeman and on roll call carried by the following vote. Ayes: Five. Noes: None. Absent: None. 1 20. Councilman Freeman brought up the matter of the forthcoming decision concern- ing the Washington Park area - whether it will be held, sold or whatever step is to be taken - and before it comes up, she would like Mr. Weller to direct a letter to Mr. Newton B. Drury of the Division of State Parks and Beaches to ascertain if it is not true that, normally, the Division works on a five -year plan with respect to the allocation of money. She s aid she understands there is one million dollars earmarked for the Washington Park Beach area and she is concerned to know when the City can expect such development. She felt the clarification of the matter would enable the Council to know what its position is as of this date. It was so ordered. ADJOURNMENT: 21. There being no further business to come before the meeting, the Council adjourned - to assemble in regular session on Tuesday evening, December 3, 1957, at 7:30 o'clock p.m. Respectfully submitted,