2024-10-15 Regular CC Minutes MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- -OCTOBER 15, 2024- -7:00 P.M.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 7:03 p.m. Councilmember Jensen led
the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Daysog, Herrera Spencer, Jensen,
Vella, and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft — 5.
Absent: None.
AGENDA CHANGES
None.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(24-570) Proclamation Declaring October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness
Month.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read the proclamation and showed a slide with contact
information.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(24-571) Richard Haick, Alameda, discussed unlicensed street vendors and Senate Bill
972.
(24-572) Gabriel Duncan, Alameda Native History Project, submitted a letter; discussed
acorn harvesting.
(24-573) Tod Hickman showed a slide and discussed attacks on his business.
(24-574) Ajit Barron-Dhillon, Alameda, discussed the Vehicle Code that allows drivers to
be issued permits to park in front of their driveways; suggested the City consider issuing
such permits.
(24-575) Joe LoParo, Veterans, discussed a Marine toy drive in Alameda.
(24-576) Nate Martinez, Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots, discussed an upcoming
holiday toy drive.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Herrera Spencer removed the special event permit update [paragraph
no. 24-588] and resolution amending the Executive Management Employees
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 1
Compensation Plan [paragraph no. 24-589] from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Expressed concern about the minutes: Tod Hickman.
Councilmember Vella moved approval of the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Jensen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph
number.]
(*24-577) Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting, Special Joint City Council and
Successor Agency to the Community Improvement Commission Meeting, and Regular
City Council Meeting Held on September 17, 2024. Approved.
(*24-578) Ratified bills in the amount of$4,785,753.69.
(*24-279) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement
with Carlson Barbee & Gibson, Inc. for Civil Engineering and Surveying Consulting
Services for Alameda Point in an Amount of $90,000 Annually, with the Option of Four
One-Year Extensions, for a Total Five-Year Expenditure Not-to-Exceed $450,000.
Accepted.
(*24-580) Recommendation to Authorize Updates to the Existing Alameda Police
Department Policy Manual to Conform to Best Practices and to Ratify Policies that Have
Been Updated Pursuant to Legal Updates, Significant Liability Issues, and Imminent
Safety. Accepted.
(*24-581) Recommendation to Authorize the Replacement Purchase of Eight LIFEPAK
15 (LP 15) Cardiac Monitors, Nine Lucas Mechanical CPR Devices, Three Hydraulically
Equipped Ambulance Gurneys (Power-PRO XT) and Accompanying Equipment from
Stryker in the Amount Not-to-Exceed $376,751.34. Accepted.
(*24-582) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a First
Amendment to the Agreement with Hilton Farnkopf & Hobson Consultants, LLC in an
Amount Not-to-Exceed $24,000, with a Total Agreement Amount Not-to-Exceed
$304,210, to Update the Zero Waste Implementation Plan. Accepted.
(*24-583) Resolution No. 16209, "Authorizing the City Manager to Apply for and Accept
CalRecycle Rubberized Pavement Grant Program Funds, for Five Years, for Work
Under the Pavement Management Program." Adopted.
(*24-584) Resolution No. 16210, "Approving Letter of Understanding Between the City
of Alameda and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 1245
Adjusting System Operator Classification Work Schedule." Adopted.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 2
(*24-585) Ordinance No. 3378, "Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Lease for a
Retail Suite Portion of the Historic Alameda Theater Building, with Shear Terror, LLC
dba It'll Do, a California Limited Liability Company, Located at 2315 Central Avenue,
Suite 122, Alameda, California, for a Term of Sixty-three (63) Months with One
Extension Option for Sixty (60) Months." Finally passed.
CONTINUED AGENDA ITEMS
None.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(24-586) Study Session on the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan and Zero Waste
Implementation Plan Updates.
***
(24-587) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how much time is needed for the presentation, to
which the Public Works Coordinator responded 20 minutes.
Councilmember Jensen moved approval of allowing 20 minutes for the presentation.
Councilmember Vella seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Councilmembers Herrera Spencer, Jensen, Vella and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft — 4.
Abstention: Vice Mayor Daysog — 1.
***
Vice Mayor Daysog recused himself and left the dais.
The Public Works Coordinator, the Sustainability and Resilience Manager and a
Sustainability Intern gave Power Point presentations.
Councilmember Vella stated Alameda has several green ribbon schools; inquired
whether there are any incentives offered by Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) or
Alameda County Industries (ACI) for schools to participate in the green ribbon program
and reduce on-campus waste.
The Public Works Coordinator responded in the negative; stated ACI has been
successful in gaining the Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) contract, which will
provide opportunities for collaboration.
Councilmember Vella inquired whether AMP has different energy reduction strategies.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded that she is not aware of any
opportunities with AMP to collaborate with AUSD; stated there are a number of green
ribbon schools in Alameda; many people are interested in a District-wide green ribbon
program.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 3
Councilmember Vella stated bulky-item pickup was mentioned; inquired the current wait
time for bulk pickups.
The Public Works Coordinator responded requests are typically fulfilled at the following
scheduled pickup; stated there is typically about a one-week wait.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether there are goals set for planting trees;
stated the issue has been ongoing for the Webster Street area.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded the Urban Forest Plan is in the
process of being updated; stated the update has taken time; staff is working diligently to
bring the matter to Council in the new year.
The Public Works Coordinator stated the City included replacement tree planting as part
of the Urban Forest Plan; inquired whether a specific site is being referenced.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated Webster Street has locations that no longer
have trees; she understands the City will be replanting the trees; replanting trees
reduces greenhouse gas emissions; expressed support for understanding of when trees
will be planted.
Councilmember Jensen stated the 2018 Zero Waste Improvement Project (ZWIP)
outlines five strategies; inquired whether all strategies have been accomplished.
The Public Works Coordinator responded in the affirmative; stated the all strategies
have primarily been accomplished; some are ongoing after the initial accomplishments;
the first strategy is: continued support for zero waste culture in Alameda; staff continues
to support a variety of programs including the re-think disposable program, the
partnership with Community Action for Sustainable Alameda (CASA), and the reusable
coffee cup program; the second strategy is: technical assistance, which focuses on
commercial and multi-family sectors, was approved by Council as part of the 2018
update, and continues to achieve good results; the third strategy is: food recovery and
enhanced organics management; staff is actively achieving the goal in partnership with
Alameda County and ACI; the fourth strategy is: updating the City's construction and
demolition ordinance, which was completed in 2020; the ordinance update ensures the
City is keeping pace with standards and is complete; the final strategy is: expand the
City's franchise agreement to a high diversion agreement, which was completed in
2021.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the food recovery program has met all goals
and no longer requires additional action.
The Program Specialist II responded staff continues to work towards food recovery
goals; stated Senate Bill (SB) 1383 calls for an edible food requirement for certain
classifications of Tiers 1 and 2, which are smaller than grocery stores but large
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 4
restaurants and certain health providing locations; staff continues to work on food
recovery in conjunction with Alameda County Stopwaste; the work will continue for
years to come.
Councilmember Jensen requested clarification about greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts
related to the Port of Oakland's activities; stated that she would like information
regarding aircraft and ship impacts on Alameda's GHG emissions.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded the Port of Oakland is outside of
the jurisdiction of the City of Alameda; stated the information is not covered in the GHG
inventory; the Port of Oakland's contributes 2.8% of the City of Oakland's emissions.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she would like clarification about the impacts from
ships and aircrafts which are within and impact Alameda, including information from
aircraft takeoffs and ship departures.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager stated planes and ships takeoff from City of
Oakland property; the emissions are covered by the City of Oakland's inventory, not the
City of Alameda.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether there had been discussion or review of
potential Bay Farm Island sites other than the long-term park-and-ride electric vehicle
(EV) charging stations.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded the park-and-ride site is
available; stated staff also included the Bay Farm Island library as part of the project
grant application; staff is interested in installing EV chargers at the Bay Farm Harbor
Bay ferry terminal, however, electrical upgrades are needed for the facility; the upgrade
is set to occur as part of the Water Emergency Transit Authority (WETA) electrification
project.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the locations are throughout the middle of
Alameda.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded staff is looking at two programs;
stated the first program would install chargers in City owned parking lots; a Request for
Proposals (RFP) was issued; Blink charging is the selected provider; the City does not
own many parking lots in the center of the island; stated Mastick Senior Center is the
primary lot in the middle of the Island; other lots exist in commercial areas and a couple
of parks; Blink charging will help the City pursue public charging in the first of a two-
phase approach; Blink has agreed to a no-cost installation at the Harbor Bay park-and-
ride and Bohol Circle Immigrant Park, to replace the existing chargers at the Civic
Center parking garage, the parking lot across from the Alameda Theatre, and at Mastick
Senior Center; under the federal grant application, staff worked with Blink to look at
additional EV chargers in public lots at a number of other locations; the second
approach being taken is for staff to look at curbside charging deployment; staff has
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 5
issued an RPF and selected It's Electric as the provider for curbside charging locations;
the primary focus is to provide public curbside charging locations in multi-family density
areas; the provider will also partner with the Alameda Housing Authority (AHA) to install
chargers adjacent to AHA sites; It's Electric has agreed to deploy up to 10 chargers in
multi-family and mixed use neighborhoods adjacent to AUSD and AHA properties; an
additional 40 units will also be installed at sites across the City per the grant application.
In response to Councilmember Herrera Spencer's inquiry related to EV disabled parking
spaces, the Sustainability and Resiliency Manager stated there are requirements for a
certain percentage of EV charging spaces be EV van accessible; the requirements will
be followed.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed support for sufficient parking spaces for
disabled drivers.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the number of locations where EV charging spaces will be
added during the first phases is listed in the report; discussed the second phase where
staff will seek $5 million in federal funding from the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure
grant program; stated many of the planned locations are within the center and West End
of Alameda; inquired when the City will find out about the funding.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded staff previously applied for the
grant in 2023 and was unsuccessful; stated the latest round for grant application was
announced in early 2024 and will likely have a time-frame similar to the previous
application; the City should know the status by January 2025.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the report discusses potential local policies which are
designed to be cost effective and relate to forthcoming State regulations; inquired what
are the forthcoming State regulations and whether the regulations have to do with minor
building renovations.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded the 2025 California Energy Code
will be adopted and effective January 2026; stated the Code continues to prioritize heat
pumps for space and water heating in new construction and when replacing rooftop
heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units on large commercial properties;
the Code also expands requirements for solar and storage; the Bay Area Air Quality
Management District (BAAQMD) has a new rule that will not allow the sale of gas water
heaters in the Bay Area starting in 2027, and gas space heaters in 2029; the California
Air Resources Board (CARB) will not allow the sale of new gas water heaters or space
heaters Statewide in 2030; staff has a local opportunity to support building owners to
prepare for the transition and get ahead of the curve.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the two options for new and non-residential buildings are
energy performance or air quality; she would favor the air quality option; outlined the air
quality approach requiring buildings meet net zero emission standards in alignment with
BAAQMD regulations; stated the standard cannot be met with gas appliances; inquired
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 6
how the City could chooses the approach in light of the decision from the California
Restaurant Association reversing the Berkeley ordinance banning gas stoves.
The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded the zero-nitrogen oxide (Zero-
NOx) air quality approach has been adopted by Los Altos Hills and Campbell; stated the
matter is currently also before the Berkeley City Council; the approach is in line with the
BAAQMD standards.
The City Attorney concurred with the Sustainability and Resiliency Manager; stated the
City of New York has considered or is adopting the same approach; there will likely be
litigation shortly after the action, which will provide better guidance; staff's current
analysis suggests it is a feasible approach to consider.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Alameda could follow the approach taken by
New York, which is a different state.
The City Attorney responded the Ninth Circuit's decision is premised on federal law;
stated a Second Circuit's decision interpreting federal law may or may not be
persuasive in the Ninth Circuit.
Stated curbside EV charging should have been done years ago; expressed support for
AMP's efforts to reduce GHG emissions; stated the Northern California Power
Association (NCPA) is within the City's jurisdiction; the natural gas turbines did not
appear in the GHG report; discussed facility ownership and grid services: Jeff Gould,
Alameda.
Stated addressing climate change as a young person is important; discussed increasing
temperatures, sea-level rise, droughts, wildfires, and unhealthy air quality; stated a large
majority of Alameda's emissions come from transportation; urged higher emphasis on
public transportation, and walkable and bikeable cities; expressed support for plans that
address all stakeholders: Roan Byrne-Sarno, Alameda.
Expressed support for the City's work on the Climate Action Resiliency Plan (CARP);
urged continued climate leadership; discussed a survey and expressed appreciation for
the level of involvement in climate action for the City; stated that he supports the
progress made so far, particularly between AMP and City staff; urged Council to
continue building on the current momentum: Ryan Bird, Public Utilities Board (PUB).
Expressed appreciation for the matter; discussed the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA): Tod Hickman.
Expressed support for involving youth; stated the City should actively focus on replacing
the rocks lining the City with green plants to help mitigate flood dangers and create new
habitats for animals; greening spaces will help with vacant buildings: Gabriel Duncan,
Alameda Native History Project.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 7
Discussed tree planting; encouraged tree planting goals be increased; expressed
concern over previous 2019 tree planting goals not being aggressive enough: Joyce
Mercado, Rotary Club.
Expressed support for the presentation; discussed related seminars and events from
2018; stated there has been a massive lift in adaptation and electrification by City staff;
there has been increased collaboration and focus; many residents are concerned; the
matter will take continued momentum, support, and resources: Debi Ryan, CASA.
Expressed support for the work of staff and for including youth; urged Council to ramp
up discussions with senior leaders; expressed support for a review of all policies and
procedures for every department; discussed AMP's billing policy, and the City's
permitting process: Heather MacLeod, Youth Power Climate Action (YPCA).
Discussed Trader Joe's permitting delays; stated natural refrigerants have been delayed
due to the permitting processes; provided statistics on grocery store refrigerant leaks,
and the climate warming effects from leaks; urged the permit process be faster: Viola
Warming, YPCA.
Expressed support for the City's partnership with CASA; stated CASA will help to
amplify and support the points being made; she is relieved CASA has a partnership with
AUSD; urged the idea of the green ribbon schools be elevated across AUSD; stated the
pandemic knocked progress back, but many plans and initiatives are in place: Ruth
Abbe, CASA.
Stated while many cities have great plans, few are implemented; Alameda is doing a
good job and has a long way to go; urged Councilmembers to brag about the City's
implementation while at meetings with outside agencies; stated the City needs to
continue creative outreach efforts: Christy Cannon, Alameda.
Stated the CARP is an amazing plan that needs resources and funding to be fully
completed; 20% remains the goal; 10% must come from the City; AMP is a unique tool
that can be used to push the goal; questioned how the City can shift to EVs and other
modes of transit; discussed AMP rebates; stated vehicle miles traveled in Alameda
have decreased since 2005 while the population has increased: Thushan
Amarasiriwardena, Alameda.
Councilmember Vella expressed support for the outreach, work performed, and CARP
policies and programs thus far; stated the City has made substantial headway in the last
decade, particularly in the last six years; stated the accomplishments being made are
impressive; opportunities are coming up in the City negotiations with the ACI franchise
agreement as well as AUSD's contract with ACI; some of the biggest waste comes from
AUSD; it is the collective responsibility to put more effort into the agreements, possibly
leveraging the contract with ACI and AUSD to support incentives for AUSD to go green;
other schools in Alameda are looking to become green ribbon certified; expressed
support for waste reduction incentive programs; stated many kids have individually
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 8
packaged items; the more behavior training occurs with the youngest learners, the more
the behaviors turn into life-long habits; it behooves everyone to find a way to provide a
small City investment that could have a tremendous impact; expressed support for
encouraging involvement and volunteering; stated many little things have impacts,
including the ways in which meals are brought to and from school each day; the
approach will help in waste reduction; the City can also leverage AMP more with
incentives for places of learning, which has previously been done; the City has
performed transportation demand planning; expressed support for more cargo bike
parking throughout the City, and for electronic bicycles; stated additional cargo bike
parking is included in the overall transportation demand strategy and addresses a
reduction in emissions; expressed support for the bulk pickup program; stated Alameda
has almost no wait time for bulk pickup compared to other cities; the 40% utilization for
bulk pickup is not a bad thing; the City should push ACI to add a second bulk pickup
option due to excess construction project waste and debris; the second bulk pickup will
help permitting processes; the second bulk pickup could be limited to once every five
years; expressed concern over having a special day for dump runs setup similar to
Oakland's operations; stated the approach creates a lot of traffic and increases
emissions; many people do not have the ability to haul waste and debris so others are
hired to haul waste to the dump; the City can help push ACI to increase its debris
recycling related to construction demolition; expressed support for urban forestry goals;
stated Alameda is different from surrounding cities and can improve some of the goals
relative to the urban forestry plan and be more ambitious; expressed support for
incentives being provided along business corridors and households that are willing to
plant trees.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer concurred with Councilmember Vella; expressed
support for City staff and Alameda's youth; discussed a Youth in Power meeting; stated
the City can do better regarding trees; there is an issue with bulky items being illegally
dumped; the City needs to find a way to make bulk item pickup available for people who
are not able to schedule a pickup at their home; expressed concern over the
enforcement component of illegal dumping; expressed support for the Friends of
Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS) and the Thrifty Kitty event; stated stores are
encouraging recycling and reuse; FAAS has a twice-annual jewelry donation event
called Thrifty Kitty; expressed support for the City employee picnic using reusable and
compostable items; stated it is important for the City to set a good example for others;
expressed support for Speaker Gould's comments; stated the City needs to figure out
how to get better bus transportation to ferries and the airport; the airport is looking to
expand; staff has looked at negotiating bus routes from Alameda to the airport; she
expects there to be more demand for bus routes to the airport; expressed support for
AC Transit bus routes being more reliable to ferry terminals; stated there has been a
comment regarding support for less rocks and more greenery; the oyster project
previously discussed should continue to be chipped away at; she did not support the
facilities bond due to not being able to provide funding to specific projects; the bond did
not include enough money to cover the asks; it is critical for the bond to be transparent
and indicate items the funding would cover; discussed EV rebates; stated that she
encourages people to attend PUB meetings to provide input; the correct rebate amount
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 9
must be balanced and figured out; she drives a Toyota Prius, which is a good in-
between; encouraged people to take even incremental steps forward.
Councilmember Jensen expressed support for the robust staff report and work done
over the last four years; stated the CARP shows vehicle emissions continue to be the
biggest contributor to Alameda's GHG burden; while the number of EVs continue to rise,
Alameda can continue doing more to support residents and visitors who own and wish
to purchase EVs; expressed support for expanding and encouraging the number of
rebates from AMP for EVs and electronic bikes, and for encouraging the installation of
EV chargers throughout Alameda; stated that she appreciates the sites being proposed,
especially those at public parks; suggested Alameda add EV chargers at all parks when
feasible; stated parks in underserved, multi-family neighborhoods having EV chargers
would encourage people and families to use Alameda's park system; expressed support
for the attention paid to bulk waste collection; stated that she would support whatever it
takes to encourage people to recycle; Alameda has a relatively large number of
multifamily buildings and renters; doing whatever it takes to encourage residents is a
great investment; urged staff to continue focusing on new developments in Alameda, as
well as subsidized rental units; expressed support for the cash for trash program; stated
that she will support taking the lead on the foodware ordinance to establish incentives
and penalties if necessary to eliminate all disposable takeout restaurant foodware; the
ordinance is a big hill and will take a lot of education and outreach; the ordinance is
possible and is something the City can do; there has been success with elimination of
restaurant Styrofoam and plastics; the City can eliminate all disposable takeout
foodware; she can see the barriers and opportunities for City schools and residents who
choose to reuse and recycle; stated Alameda is on the right track and doing a good job.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for staff and youth leaders; stated it is Council's
responsibility as elected officials to ensure the City is paying attention to the climate,
climate change, and doing what is possible to address the issues while reducing the
carbon footprint; the City would not have been as successful without organizations like
CASA; CASA members are inspiring; as an island, Alameda is especially mindful over
the impacts of global warming, climate change, and sea level rise; discussed the book
"California Against the Sea" by Rosanna Xia showing how cities in California are
addressing the existential threat; stated that she is inspired by the youth activists
providing hope for the future; discussed the Youth in Power forum; stated youth
members have made strides in helping local grocers change from refrigeration units
using Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to natural cooling; urged staff to review any holdup for
the permits at Trader Joe's; expressed concern over the City causing delays; urged
people to frequent smaller stores that have natural refrigerators; expressed support for
City departments leading by example; stated the City aquatic center plan recently
approved by Council having electrification listed as a design element option troubled
her; electrification should never be a design element option; reducing GHG emissions
should always be included; the building will serve the community for decades;
everything the City does should keep the same idea in mind; expressed support for the
City's paper purchasing habits using recyclable paper; stated forests are created to be
cut down and made into paper products; the City should not be a partner to those
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 10
actions; discussed a paper titled "The Issue with Tissue" by the National Resources
Defense Council; urged the City to change its buying habits, including no longer buying
paper business cards for staff; expressed support for Councilmember Jensen urging
AUSD to have more green ribbon schools; stated there is much that can be done for the
City; inquired where the City is at regarding the enforcement for dumping.
The Public Works Coordinator responded the City currently does not have an
enforcement program for illegal dumping; stated enforcement is being contemplated as
a priority program under the ZWIP update; the program will need to be established and
will be a counterpart to the existing material pickup program.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the matter would first go to the Planning Board
for review, to which the Public Works Coordinator responded staff will return to Council
with additional details.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for the matter; stated the efforts could not be
completed without the community; urged more outreach and involvement.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer discussed her experience as the Parent-Teacher
Association (PTA) President; stated all elementary schools received garden grants;
many schools need more parent and adult volunteers in order to do a lot of the desired
work; Bay Farm has had volunteers for years.
***
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called a recess at 9:02 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:23
p.m.
***
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS REMOVED FOR DISCUSSION
(24-588) Recommendation to Accept a Status Update on the Special Events Grant Pilot
Program.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated Speaker Duncan requested City support for an
upcoming event in November; inquired how someone can apply to get on the list or how
they would apply in the future.
The Development Manager responded the Special Event Permit (SEP) program
currently before Council is tailor-made for events that require special event permits;
stated the events could be closing down a City street or require specialized services;
depending on the nature of the event, Speaker Duncan may or may not qualify; the City
also has another round of cultural arts grants that will come before Council in early 2025
and could be a good fit for Speaker Duncan; Speaker Duncan has reached out to City
staff and staff will follow up.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer requested clarification on the cultural event process.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 11
The Development Manager stated the City currently has two programs: the first is for
the cultural arts grants run through the Public Art program; the City releases a RFP for
grants each year in January or February; people can visit the City's website and join the
public art mailing list to receive notifications; the Special Event program permit grant is
in place to help fund services and materials required by the City through the SEP
process; things, such as traffic control or event greening, will aid people with paying
some of the required costs; the next round of grants will open in early 2025; information
will be on the City's website; staff send information to those who have applied for a
special event permit within the last five years.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Vella seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(24-589) Resolution No. 16211 , "Approving Revisions to the Executive Management
Employees Compensation Plan, Modifying the Public Safety Retiree Medical Benefit
Eligibility for the Police and Fire Chiefs to Provide Up to Five Years of Service Credit to
External Hires with a Vested Retiree Medical Benefit with Their Prior Agency, and
Making Other Minor Revisions." Adopted.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the title does not clearly indicate lifetime
medical for the employees; she would have preferred including the information;
requested clarification about the five year reference; inquired why the request is being
made and why staff is proposing its recommendation.
The Human Resources Director stated Section 5.2 of the Executive Management
Compensation Plan discusses retiree medical benefits for the City's public safety chiefs;
retiree medical would be provided to the two classifications if the members had the
same benefit elsewhere, and have served the City for five years; members would
receive the benefit for the remainder of their life; the benefit is single party coverage at
the CaIPERS, Kaiser or Blue Shield rate, whichever is greater.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired how long the members would have had to
work with the City to be eligible for the benefit.
The Human Resources Director responded the time depends between five and ten
years; stated if an externally hired Chief was a Chief at their previous agency, then the
time spent could be used as a credit and only five years with the City would be required;
if the member was not a Chief in their previous agency, then ten years with the City
would be required.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired the reasoning for the staff recommendation.
The Human Resources Director responded for retention and recruitment purposes;
stated Chiefs are generally at the end of their careers and would have worked a long
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 12
time already; ten years at the end of a career is a big hurdle; many agencies have more
levels of management that would qualify; the approach is a step up for members, is
more diverse, and staff supports encouraging a more diverse pool of candidates when
recruiting; other agencies have a vested interest in their retiree medical; staff is asking
members to give up a very rich benefit and wants to incentivize hiring; the matter also
limits the benefit to those who already possess it at another agency and ensures
members are not coming to the City solely to receive the benefit.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired the highest anticipated cost for the benefit, to
which the Human Resources Director responded the range of $5,000 to $13,000 per
year currently.
In response to Councilmember Herrera Spencer's inquiry related to Medicare, the
Human Resources Director stated prior to Medicare and the age of 65, staff is projecting
about $13,000 per year cost; once members are Medicare eligible, they can move to a
supplemental plan, which will reduce the cost to about $5,000 per year.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether the City would retain the current
Chiefs for at least five years if the matter pass.
The Human Resources Director responded that she would hope they will stay with the
City a minimum five years.
Councilmember Vella moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous
voice vote - 5.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
(24-590) The City Manager discussed the Police Department responding to a false
claim of intended gun violence at a school; stated the initial investigation into the call
appears to be a swatting incident; safety remains the top priority; announced the
completion of construction on Clement Avenue; discussed the Oakland-Alameda water
shuttle ridership over the past month; announced a streamlined schedule with 52 trips
added per week; a free, weekend Island hopper shuttle connects riders from the water
shuttle and Main Street ferry terminal to Spirits Alley, businesses and events;
announced the upcoming annual donut fun run festival at Alameda Point and the next
regular City Council meeting being on Wednesday due to the election.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 13
(24-591) Consider Resolution No. 16212, "Supporting the Free and Safe Passage of
Whales, Sea Turtles, and Other Marine Animals in Alameda's Coastal Waters and the
State of California's Vision Zero Target of Zero Mortality for Whales and Sea Turtles."
Adopted. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer)
Councilmember Hererra Spencer gave a brief presentation.
Stated the resolution is an opportunity for the City of Alameda to express its support for
protecting California's marine life and rich biodiversity; the water supports such rich
marine life; discussed marine animals navigating threats and a female grey whale death
caused by vessel trauma; stressed the importance of public awareness for threats faced
by marine life; stated the resolution lets the State know Alameda supports the
commitment to prevent whale and turtle entanglements: Benjamin Grundy, Center for
Biological Diversity.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer outlined organizations that have endorsed the matter
included in the correspondence from Speaker Grundy.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired which other California cities have adopted the resolution
besides San Francisco, to which Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded that she
understands only San Francisco has adopted the resolution.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the resolution was adopted in 2014, to which
Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether there is a reason no other cities have adopted
the resolution in the last ten years.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded that she believes it takes bodies to perform
the related type of work; the City is fortunate Speaker Grundy is spearheading the
campaign; the resolution incurs no cost to the City and makes a strong statement; the
resolution is about safe passage for whales, turtles, and other marine animals in coastal
waters.
Councilmember Jensen requested clarification whether Council will be adopting and
enacting a resolution, not a Council Referral; questioned whether Council is taking
action on a Referral to place a resolution on the agenda in the future.
The City Attorney stated that he understands the Referral requests Council adopt a
resolution tonight.
Councilmember Jensen moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she understands the objectives of
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 14
CARP and how it impacts the City, including the role of the City within the plan;
expressed concern over the whale that died off of Crown Memorial Beach; stated the
beach is not City property and falls under East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD);
inquired whether the City has a jurisdiction and responsibility for marine mammals.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated City GHG are not only restricted to Alameda;
the City is working together with other cities and counties; the matter falls under the
efforts being made; San Francisco was a leader and Alameda can be second; the effort
can spread and hopefully desired work will be performed to encourage safety for marine
life.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired the work Alameda will do to support the matter;
questioned whether there is no cost to the City, to which Councilmember Herrera
Spencer responded it is spreading the word about the effort; stated the City may not be
doing work per se, however Speaker Grundy and associated organizations will add the
City of Alameda to the list supporters.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like more information before deciding on
adopting a resolution; expressed concern over staff time being spent on the matter;
questioned whether the matter is a feel good resolution; stated apart from adopting the
resolution, there appears to be spreading of the word, however, she is not sure what
form the approach will take; inquired how the matter will play out.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded that she hopes at least three
Councilmembers will support the resolution; stated adoption is a statement; the City
often makes important statements.
Councilmember Vella expressed support for making a statement and for doing more
than only making a statement; stated the City has done many things in the past to
support wildlife; the City has worked with BCDC and WETA; inquired which agencies,
not just cities, are looking at the matter; stated San Francisco is on the coast versus
Alameda being a bay city; Alameda is not coastal in the same way as San Francisco.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated if the resolution is adopted, the word can be
spread to Crab Cove's visitor center; Crab Cove could also adopt the resolution as part
of the information being shared; many fishermen come from Alameda and fish in the
area.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification whether the information is intended to be
shared with fishermen; inquired how the information will be shared with no expenditure
of funds.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded the good people of Alameda can help
spread the word once the resolution is adopted.
Vice Mayor Daysog stated all Alameda residents care about critters large and small
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 15
while being part of an island with surrounding waters; the proposed resolution is
certainly consistent with the sentiment of the City; Alamedans are proud of their
connection to whales in the Bay; discussed an incident regarding Humphrey the Whale;
stated there was also a large whale at Crab Cove; Ballena Bay is part of Alameda's
testament to its love of whales; there is nothing wrong with joining the City of San
Francisco and hopefully others in trying to look out for whales in the Bay Area;
unfortunately, accidents happen where boats hit whales causing injuries; expressed
support for the matter being brought forth and for the sentiment; stated the residents will
likely be supportive as well.
Councilmember Jensen stated sometimes staff is looking for funding for different things;
staff use resolutions or City programs and funds to support applications for certain
programs; the proposed resolution may not have a lot of teeth, and hopefully is not
adopted in vain, but could be used by staff to solicit or even obtain some funding for
ocean and mammal protection in the future.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated it is difficult to be against whales; the resolution is fine; as
long as the City is not needing to expend funds or staff time, she can support.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed gratitude for Council support and
comments for the matter.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(24-592) Councilmember Jensen discussed attending the Port of Oakland leadership
meeting; stated that she joined Councilmembers at various events on October 5th
including the pride festival at Chochenyo Park and the Filipino Fest at Radium on the
Runway; discussed her participation in the Walk and Roll to School event at Edison
Elementary; noted Edison Elementary discussed the hardscape being difficult in the
heat; urged trees be planted on the playground; stated that she also attended the
Alameda employee picnic.
(24-593) Vice Mayor Daysog discussed the closure of 1,200 Walgreens stores across
the country over the next three years; expressed support for marketing the Walgreens
on Webster Street and at South Shore in order to have them remain in Alameda; stated
the Walgreens on Webster Street anchors the shopping center; the City should guard
against losing an anchor tenant; discussed attending the Filipino Fest; expressed
support for Ms. Guitarte and Ms. Bonta.
(24-594) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed attending the Filipino Fest; stated that she
read and presented a proclamation; expressed support for Ms. Bonta; discussed
attending the Pride of the Park festival at Chochenyo Park, a luncheon at Coast Guard
Island, a meeting at Caltrans with AMP addressing the details and impacts of closures
for the Oakland Alameda Access Project.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 16
(24-595) Councilmember Vella stated that she will be attending the League of California
Cities annual conference.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she will also be attending the League of California
Cities annual conference in Long Beach, California; noted that she and Councilmember
Vella are on the Board of Directors.
(24-596) Councilmember Herrera Spencer announced that she will be attending the
League of California Cities annual conference in Long Beach; outlined recent police
activities; stated that she attended the Walk and Roll to School event at Earhart
Elementary School; discussed attending the Filipino fest, the 5K for pride at the Elk's
Lodge, the new Officer swearing in ceremony, the employee appreciation picnic, a Fleet
Week celebration event at the USS Hornet honoring the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam
War and Veterans; announced the Bay Area Music Project's 10th anniversary at
Alameda Point; stated there had been a celebration of life for George Gunn, the Curator
for Alameda Museum; discussed a Navy reception event at the USS Tripoli; announced
a sneak peek at the black light art show for Studio 23; discussed attending the 58th
annual United Nations (UN) flag day at Jack London Square; stated Café Jolie Petit has
a Parisian market.
ADJOURNMENT
(24-597) There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting
at 10:09 p.m. in memory of Councilmember Vella's father, Dr. Michael Vella.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
October 15,2024 17