2025-09-02 Regular CC Minutes MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- -SEPTEMBER 2, 2025- -7:00 P.M.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 7:14 p.m. Councilmember Boller led the
Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Boller, Daysog, Jensen, Pryor, and
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft— 5.
Absent: None.
AGENDA CHANGES
None.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(25-465) Proclamation Declaring September 15 through October 15, 2025 as Hispanic
And Latino Heritage Month.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read the proclamation.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(25-466) Xo Wang, Alameda, discussed the removal of the slow street he lives on;
expressed concern about speeding; urged criteria be created for traffic calming and
equity be addressed.
(25-467) Harper Nelson, Youthpower Climate Action (YCA), thanked the City for writing
a letter supporting the Make Polluters Pay Act bill; urged the City Council to also adopt
a resolution in support.
(25-468) Bella Goldwasser, YCA, outlined the benefits of the Make Polluters Pay Act
bill.
(25-469) Zac Bowling, Alameda, expressed concern about Flock operating the City
license plate readers and body worn cameras.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Daysog requested the minutes [paragraph no. 25-493] be removed
from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Councilmember Jensen requested the Communications Report [paragraph no. 25-494]
be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 1
September 2,2025
In response to Councilmember Boller's inquiry about the bidding process for the Civic
Center Parking Garage [paragraph no. 25-478], the Public Works Director stated
additional information was provided to Council this afternoon; discussed the project
being subject to a Project Labor Agreement.
Councilmember Boller inquired why rebidding would result in an increase.
The Public Works Director responded once bids have been submitted; rebidding usually
always results in a higher bid.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft concurred with the Public Works Director.
The City Clerk announced the Public Hearing amending the Master Fee Schedule
[paragraph no. 25-487].
Submitted a handout and discussed the Alameda Museum: Gabriel Duncan, Alameda
Native History Project.
Councilmember Boller moved approval of the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph
number.]
(*25-470) Ratified bills in the amount of$59,658,311.56.
(*25-471) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Two-Year
Service Provider Agreement, with the Option to Extend for an Additional Two Years,
with First Shield Security and Patrol, Inc. for Unarmed Security Guard Services at the
Main Library for a Total Agreement Compensation Not-to-Exceed $400,000. Accepted.
(*25-472) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Two-Year
Agreement with SHI International Corp. for Arctic Wolf Cybersecurity Services in an
Amount Not-to-Exceed $227,757. Accepted.
(*25-473) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute Two Five-Year
Service Provider Agreements in an Amount Not-To-Exceed $150,000 Each, with Rex
Moore Group, Inc. and Tri-Signal Integration, Inc., for On-Call Fire Alarm Monitoring,
Maintenance, Repair, and Inspection Services. Accepted.
(*25-474) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute Three Five-Year
Service Provider Agreements, in an Amount Not-To-Exceed $125,000 Each with Woods
Works Fire Protection, Inc., RCM Fire Protection, LLC., and Tri-Signal Integration, Inc.,
for On-Call Fire Sprinkler Maintenance, Repair, and Inspection Services. Accepted.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
September 2,2025 2
(*25-475) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a First
Amendment to the Agreement with Dialog Design LP for Architectural Services to
Extend the Term by Two Years to September 16, 2027, to Provide Design and
Construction Administration Services for the Day Center Relocation Project. Accepted.
(*25-476) Recommendation to Accept the Work of Golden Bay Construction, for the
Mecartney Road Pedestrian Crossing Improvements Project, PW No. 07-24-20.
Accepted.
(*25-477) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement
with National Auto Fleet Group to Upfit an Animal Control Services Van for a Total
Amount Not-to-Exceed $112,200. Accepted.
(*25-478) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement
with Mark Lee & Yong Kay, Inc., DBA Bay Construction Co. for the Civic Center Parking
Structure Renovation Project, No. P.W. 04-25-07, in an Amount Not-to-Exceed
$1,568,600, Including Contingency. Accepted.
(*25-479) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Five-Year
Service Provider Agreement with Nichols Consulting Engineers (NCE) in an Amount
Not-to-Exceed $600,000 for On-Call Clean Water Program Services. Accepted.
(*25-480) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Five-Year
Service Provider Agreement in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $750,000 to BSK Associates
for On-Call Geotechnical, Environmental, and Construction Testing Services. Accepted.
(*25-481) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Five-Year
Service Provider Agreement in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $750,000 to NN Engineering,
Inc. for On-Call Transportation Engineering Services. Accepted.
(*25-482) Recommendation to Authorize the Purchase of One Bucket/Aerial Truck
Replacement Consistent with the Revised Vehicle Replacement Policy in an Amount
Not-to-Exceed $243,066.35 from Owen's Equipment. Accepted.
(*25-483) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Sixth
Amendment to the Agreement with CDM Smith, Inc., to Increase Compensation by
$235,500, Including Contingencies, for a Total Aggregate Compensation Not-to-Exceed
$4,014,428, to Continue Construction Support for the Central Avenue Safety
Improvements Project. Accepted.
(*25-484) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Five-Year
Service Provider Agreement in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $371,129, including
Contingencies, with Wood Rodgers, Inc., for Civil Engineering Services to Complete the
Marina Village Parkway Storm Drain Improvements Project and Flooding Analysis
Project. Accepted.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 3
September 2,2025
(*25-485) Recommendation to Accept the Work of Bay Cities Paving & Grading, Inc., for
the Clement Avenue Safety Improvements Project (No. P.W. 08-23-19). Accepted.
(*25-486) Resolution No. 16310, "Declaring Intention to Form City of Alameda
Community Facilities District No. 25-1 (West Midway Facilities), and to Authorize the
Levy of a Special Tax Therein to Finance Public Facilities in and for Such Community
Facilities District." Adopted;
(*25-486A) Resolution No. 16311, "Declaring Intention to Incur Bonded Indebtedness to
Finance the Acquisition and Construction of Certain Public Facilities in and for City of
Alameda Community Facilities District No. 25-1 (West Midway Facilities)." Adopted;
and
(*25-486B) Resolution No. 16312, "Declaring Intention to Annex Territory to Community
Facilities District No. 17-1 (Alameda Point Public Services District) and to Authorize the
Levy of Special Taxes Therein." Adopted.
(*25-487) Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. 16313, "Amending Master Fee
Resolution No. 12191 to Make Clerical and Administrative Corrections to the Fee
Schedule for the Planning Division and Public Works Department." Adopted.
CONTINUED AGENDA ITEMS
None.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(25-488) Public Hearing to Consider an Appeal of the Planning Board's Approval of Use
Permit Amendment No. PLN24-0094 to Allow Additional Operating Hours for the
Existing Legal Non-Conforming Gas Station Located at 1310 Central Avenue, as well as
Sale of Packaged Foods and Non-Alcoholic Beverages in the Existing Store; and
(25-488A) Resolution No. 16314, "Upholding the Planning Board's Approval of Use
Permit Amendment PLN24-0094 to Allow Additional Operating Hours for the Existing
Legal Non-Conforming Gas Station Located At 1310 Central Avenue, as Well as Sales
of Packaged Foods and Non-Alcoholic Beverages in the Existing Store." Adopted.
***
(25-489) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft suggested allowing 5 minutes for both the Appellant and
Applicant to speak.
Councilmember Jensen moved approval.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote — 5.
***
The Planner II gave a Power Point presentation.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
September 2,2025 4
Councilmember Jensen inquired what are the circumstances in which a decision made
by the Planning Board may be appealed.
The Planner II responded a person may file an appeal during the 10-day window; stated
the person filing must pay a fee and provide reasons for the appeal; the more common
way for an appeal is when two Councilmembers call an item for review.
In response to Councilmember Jensen's inquiry regarding Planning Board decisions,
the Planner II stated the Planning Board had the opportunity to consider everything
contained in the appeal; stated a member of the public filed the appeal because he
disagreed with the outcome.
In response to Councilmember Boller's inquiry regarding the nonconforming uses, the
Planner II stated the gas station is in a residential neighborhood; the conditions of
approval are changing.
Councilmember Boller inquired whether the City Attorney can provide more input on the
nonconforming use being changed to one of the same or more restricted use
classifications.
Special Counsel responded staff analyzed it in terms of different use classifications;
stated a variety of different uses would be considered non-conforming for this particular
piece of property; it is residentially zoned; in this situation, the overall use is not
changing, just the operational hours.
In response to Councilmember Boller's inquiry regarding impacts, the Planner II stated
the Planning Board and Council may consider the potential impacts of changing the
hours of operation or products sold on-site; staff relied on the use classification when
interpreting the Code.
Councilmember Boller stated that he is more focused on the policy perspective; inquired
whether the potential impacts on the neighborhood are substantial.
The Planner II responded staff attempted to find a balance between the concerns and
needs of the business as well as that of the community; stated the Planning Board
supported the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Boller stated the staff report mentions there may be a long period of
time if the area becomes vacant if the business fails; inquired how this influenced the
staff recommendation.
The Planner II responded former service stations with underground storage tanks are
hard to redevelop with new uses and often end up vacant; stated staff believes this is an
opportunity to support an existing business and hopefully avoid that potential outcome.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council 5
September 2,2025
Leland Price, Appellant, gave a brief oral presentation.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the Appellant is aware of a bar called The
Benton, to which the Appellant responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired about the location of the bar.
The Appellant responded the bar is located on the corner of Encinal Street.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the bar is located across the street from the gas
station, to which the Appellant responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated according to The Benton's website, it is open from 3 p.m. to
1 a.m. Monday to Thursday and 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday nights; inquired if
the Appellant is aware of the operating hours, to which the Appellant responded in the
affirmative.
The Applicant gave a brief oral presentation.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the Applicant has researched how extending
operating hours may impact revenue.
The Applicant responded that he is having a hard time paying the rent on time.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the Applicant would like to add two additional
hours, to which the Applicant responded in the affirmative; stated customers have
previously asked why the gas station closes early.
Councilmember Boller stated neighboring community members have raised concerns
about noise, lights, and operating outside of normal hours; inquired how the Applicant is
addressing the concerns and how concerns would continue to be addressed moving
forward.
The Applicant responded the community is very quiet and he is trying to keep it so;
stated he will ensure the lights are off on time every day; most people do not come
inside or congregate around the store; most leave immediately.
Councilmember Boller inquired about the coverings on the store windows and about
typical foot traffic.
The Applicant responded there is not too much foot traffic; stated the blinds were put up
to cover gas station workers from the bright sun.
Councilmember Boller inquired whether the Applicant understands that the additional
time granted could be revoked, to which the Applicant responded in the affirmative.
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Alameda City Council
September 2,2025 6
Councilmember Boller inquired what the Applicant would do moving forward to ensure
neighborhood concerns do not worsen over time.
The Applicant responded he will keep an eye on everything; stated if a patron were to
be making too much noise, he will tell them to lower the volume, which he has done
before.
In response to Councilmember Boller's inquiry about working closing hours, the
Applicant stated he currently works six days a week; if additional hours are granted, he
will close every day.
Expressed support for the business; discussed excellent relations with the business:
Anita Burnaford, Alameda.
Stated that he is not in favor; previous requests for a convenience store were denied;
expansion of hours will not save the gas station: Richard Noordyk, Alameda.
Discussed the needs of the many residents; stated many in the neighborhood are
opposed; hours should not be extended; outlined points in the letter he submitted: Tim
Rumberger, Alameda.
Stated the gas station is an eyesore; outlined issues related to expansion: Ethan
Rafferty, Alameda.
Stated the repair business is not looking to expand its hours; the existing hours and use
should remain; a 50% increase in weekly hours is being requested: Bill Ake, Alameda.
Urged the Council not to approve any changes: JoAnn Stewart, Alameda.
Discussed traffic; stated that he opposes any expansion: Stephen Van Meter, Alameda.
Stated expanded hours have been requested in the past; urged Council not to expand
the hours or allow a convenient store; stated hours will not save the business: Mark
Showalter, Alameda.
Stated that her bedroom is directly across from the business; discussed noise traveling
through the intersection; stated noise is an issue; adding a convenient store would take
away from an existing business; urged the hours of operation not be permitted after 8
pm: Jeannine Gravem, Alameda.
Stated that she has lived across from the business for 50 years and knows the impacts
of the business operating until 10 p.m.; discussed traffic: Donna Gravem, Alameda.
Discussed the impacts of increasing the business hours and other shops: Tim
Underwood, Alameda.
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September 2,2025
Stated the gas station has tried to be a good neighbor; increasing the hours by 30% will
greatly impact the neighborhood; urged the hours not be extended: Phil Gravem,
Alameda.
Expressed her opposition; stated the gas station is low performing because of its
location: Heather A, Alameda.
Expressed support for the expansion; stated the hours are needed to stay in business:
David Saidian, Oakland.
Stated that he is one of the owners of the business; discussed the expansion: Abdul
DaGwar, Alameda.
Stated people are in opposition based on lies; expressed support for the gas station,
which assists the disabled: Carole Brandmeyer, Alameda.
Discussed expansion; stated that she does not see an issue with allowing a few more
hours: Grace, Alameda.
Expressed concern about the lack of financial information and operating beyond existing
hours; urged Council to vote no: Camila Osorno, Alameda.
Urged Council to vote no; stated that she does not want the hours increased: Jessie
Hemingway, Alameda.
Expressed concern about more traffic, noise, and pollution; urged Council not to
approve the request: Dorota Krubnik, Alameda.
Discussed violations of current hours: Mariusz Krubnik, Alameda.
Expressed concern about extending the hours because of increased noise and impacts
on other markets: Berman Ng, Alameda.
Discussed business expenses and the need for expansion: Fuad Alkhawlari.
Discussed witnessing a neighbor come when the pumps were off; stated the owners are
trying to make a living: Kimberly McBee, Alameda.
Expressed support for the staff recommendation and mixed use in Alameda: Ryan
Clausnitzer, Alameda.
Expressed support for his friends who own the gas station: Adel Folly.
Stated that she is not taking a position on the gas station; there is not room for a
roundabout at the intersection; suggested carving out some of the station for a right of
way to make a roundabout or addition of electric vehicle charging: Christy Cannon,
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Alameda City Council
September 2,2025 8
Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda.
Urged Council to uphold the Planning Board decision; discussed historical uses: Zac
Bowling, Alameda.
Expressed concern about noise and extending the hours: Cynthia Cooper, Alameda.
Urged Council to say no; stated the worry is the amount of people: Erica Hilton,
Alameda.
Expressed support for the current hours; expressed concern about traffic: Anya Deibert,
Alameda.
Expressed concern about evening hours and increasing traffic in the intersection:
Amanda Micheli, Alameda.
Stated traffic will not increase and she has not seen accidents involving the gas station:
Marguerite Jacques Melero.
Outlined opposition to the arguments against the business: Xo Wang, Alameda.
Stated forcing the business to close is short-sighted; a few hours should be allowed: Jay
Garfinkle, Alameda.
Urged Council to support the business, the Planning Board and staff: Meredith Hoskin
***
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called at recess at 9:21 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:35
p.m.
***
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for the Planning Board's decision and staff's
recommendation; stated the Planning Board applies criteria, which are set forth in the
staff report; although Council can consider new evidence that is presented, the
requirement to present a business plan is not among the criteria; it is a mixed use
neighborhood; people deserve to be able to stop at a gas station in a safe location;
discussed ways to resolve noise, light, and traffic concerns; stated children are most
likely not going to be crossing the street alone at night; in regards to neighboring
businesses, the owners of the businesses were not present during the meeting to
express concerns; small, local businesses should be supported; the business being
open longer should not be a big impediment to the neighborhood.
Vice Mayor Pryor expressed support for the Planning Board's decision; stated if there is
an opportunity to support a small business, the City should do so; she understands the
concerns; gas stations are almost impossible to repurpose; she would prefer a small
business be there as opposed to a vacant lot; it is a great neighborhood.
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Alameda City Council 9
September 2,2025
Councilmember Boller stated the business has a good reputation in the community and
has been a good partner with the City; expressed concern that a lot of the information
and concerns heard tonight were perhaps beyond what was heard by the Planning
Board; inquired whether Council could consider adopting the staff recommendation,
excluding the later business hours of 9 to 10pm.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what safeguards could be built into the conditions, such
as the monitoring of light and noise.
Special Counsel responded there are several different conditions Council could impose;
stated a typical way of addressing this type of concerns is by conducting bi-annual
monitoring and conducting inspections on a routine basis and reporting to the Planning
Board; the Planning Board also has the ability to reexamine the permit at a certain
interval, such as a year; if conditions are not satisfied, the Planning Board would have
the ability to impose additional conditions.
Councilmember Daysog stated as it stands now, the gas station operates roughly 78
hours per week; what is being proposed is a 45% increase, going from 78 hours to
roughly 113 hours a week; perhaps there is room for compromise; suggested the hours
from Monday through Friday stay at 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday's hours
be 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; doing so would be a 26% increase; the Applicant purchased the gas
station with the knowledge that it was in a residential area; the concerns raised have to
be considered; the idea that you cannot reuse a gas station is untrue; provided
examples where old gas stations were repurposed in the City; stated for many gas
stations, most profits are made through convenience stores; emphasized any non-gas
related sales must be done within the existing structure.
Councilmember Jensen the proposal meets the City's zoning and land use
requirements; the decision by the Planning Board was appropriate; the Planning Board
serves the community with very little recognition and time on the issue listening and
discussing options for the gas station; expressed support for the Planning Board's
decision; stated the community has raised issues about late nights; light issues are the
main concern for expanded night time hours; concerns have not been raised about
current operating hours; she would be supportive of the current operating hours and
weekend hours; people in the neighborhood and across the City would benefit and
prefer to use this gas station on weekends; expressed support for the weekend hours
option; stated that she has not heard concerns about selling snacks and beverages; the
City Council must support businesses and be flexible, while still recognizing the needs
of the community; inquired whether the matter could return to the Planning Board for
further discussion about the operating hours during the week.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft suggested the matter not be sent back to the Planning Board as it
is hard for the business to keep getting bounced back the forth and the Council is the
ultimate decider.
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September 2,2025 1 0
Vice Mayor Pryor suggested having the gas station open at 6 a.m. from Monday to
Friday; stated having an early gas station option in the center of the Island could be
convenient; an early start time would be helpful for commuters, especially when
construction of the Oakland/Alameda Access Project begins; she would default to the
Planning Board's decision, if all else fails.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the Vice Mayor is suggesting business hours
of 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday and
Sunday, to which Vice Mayor Pryor responded in the affirmative; stated her initial plan
would be to follow the Planning Board's decision, however, if most of Council can agree
to a 6 a.m. time, that would be preferred.
Councilmember Jensen stated the business is very supportive of seniors and persons
with disabilities; an earlier speaker stated workers at the gas station are always willing
to help pump gas and check oil for those in need; she is unsure what other gas stations
offer such services; the employee's dedication to the community is evident; expressed
support for the amendment to the business hours.
Vice Mayor Pryor moved approval [of the Planning Board decision] with amending the
hours to 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and
Sunday [via adoption of the resolutionl.
Councilmember Daysog requested an amendment to motion to include a condition that
non-gas sales must be in the building.
Vice Mayor Pryor agreed to amend the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Daysog stated limiting the sales to inside the building
prevents food trucks or outside ice cream sales.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
(25-490) Workshop to Discuss Alameda's Infrastructure and Facility Needs Regarding
Streets and Traffic Safety.
The Communications and Legislative Affairs Director gave a Power Point presentation.
Vice Mayor Pryor inquired whether how many traffic signal lights are nearing the end of
usable life.
The City Engineer responded there are 89 signal-light intersections in the City and
approximately 20 of those are operating on an older controller system; stated to
upgrade, it would be about $100,000 per intersection; other challenges within many
intersections include old mast arms that do not meet current standards, which would
also be expensive to replace.
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Alameda City Council 1 1
September 2,2025
Vice Mayor Pryor inquired which American with Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements are
underfunded and how much are the work is underfunded.
The Public Works Director responded Council has funded the ADA Transition Plan in
the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) budget; stated facilities Phase 1 has been
completely funded; during the current CIP budget, Phase 2 for City facilities is partially
funded; staff will return to seek additional funding for the rest; right-of-way is typically
addressed through the pavement management program; this will be the first year
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) dollars are being used for a specific curb
ramp project.
Councilmember Jensen inquired when was the last time the City passed a funding
measure, a bond, or a parcel tax to support infrastructure.
The Communications and Legislative Affairs Director responded there was a Utility
Users Tax (UUT) measure in 2016, a sales tax measure in 2018, a Stormwater Fee
measure in 2019, and a Transit Occupancy Tax (TOT) measure in 2022; stated staff
has been before Council several times with other revenue measure ideas, specifically
about need for a potential infrastructure bond, which did not proceed.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the only one of the aforementioned taxes that
supports infrastructure needs is the Stormwater Fee, to which the Communications and
Legislative Affairs Director responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the amount of $274 million being referred to in
the presentation is solely for transportation and whether future workshops will cover
other infrastructure needs, to which the Communications and Legislative Affairs Director
responded in the affirmative.
Expressed support and discussed funding needs; expressed disappointment with a lack
of federal funding in his neighborhood, particularly for the Lincoln Avenue Project: Xo
Wang, Alameda.
Stated BikeWalk Alameda supports ways to fund the Transportation Choices Plan;
discussed impacts of unsafe traffic; expressed support for a bond measure: Cyndy
Johnsen, BikeWalk Alameda.
Discussed the pavement management fund and parking management: Mitchell Ball,
Alameda.
Discussed traffic accidents; suggested Council abandon Vision Zero; urged Council to
save money for other City infrastructure projects: Jim Strehlow, Alameda.
Questioned what is being done to assist seniors with mental disabilities, such as
dementia; expressed support for ADA improvements: Jeanne Lahaie, Alamedans to
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September 2,2025 12
End Alzheimers.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what the City is doing regarding the Polluters Pay Climate
Fund Act.
The Communications and Legislative Affairs Director responded the Act correlates with
the City's legislative agenda; stated staff prepared a letter to be sent to the authors of
the Act.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the bill is on its way to the Governor's desk.
The Communications and Legislative Affairs Director responded that she understands
the bill is being halted by the fossil fuel industry; stated the bill will likely not be signed
this year and will return in 2026.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the City will receive whatever the voters are willing to vote
for and will spend it wisely; discussed involvement with the Mayor's Institute on
Pedestrian Safety; suggested tabling be done in real time while families make their way
to and from schools and business districts; stated workshops are often conducted on
weekends, therefore testing the traffic pattern in not in real time; suggested getting high
school students to assist with tabling and testing; expressed support for speed bumps
and roundabouts in more residential areas; stated staff is working on leveraging State,
County, and regional funding.
Councilmember Jensen inquired how much revenue the City could obtain through
increased parking fees at meters and parking garages.
The Public Works Director responded when Public Works took over parking
enforcement in 2021, staff formed the parking fund, which consolidates parking revenue
and expenses; stated since then, staff has been working towards ensuring the fund is
fiscally neutral and revenue coming in matches expenses; there is an ongoing debt
service to pay off construction of the Civic Center Parking Garage; once paid off, staff
believes the parking fund current rates will cover its costs and the fund will be in a good
state; there is opportunity for implementing demand based pricing in business districts;
although there is room to increase rates, staff does not anticipate it to be sufficient for
infrastructure needs.
Councilmember Jensen expressed support for demand based pricing; stated having
more revenue from parking meters would be helpful; her priority is having safe streets;
staff are doing what they can with road diets, Vision Zero, and new projects for Bay
Farm Island and the West End; however, nearly 50 pedestrians and bicyclists have
been hit by vehicles in the City in 2025, which is unacceptable; expressed support for a
proposal to improve roadways.
Councilmember Boller stated it is ultimately up to the preferences of the community
members; it is challenging to get this type of bond approved by the voters; currently,
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Alameda City Council 13
September 2,2025
there is no single pre-built app that would perfectly fit this challenge; however, some
functionality can be achieved through a combination of existing civic engagement
platforms and using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software; these are tools
designed to gather location-based feedback on infrastructure needs; a cost aspect can
be integrated through a structured polling approach; discussed civic engagement
platforms that include map-based polling features and GIS software; stated the problem
demands a creative approach.
The Communications and Legislative Affairs Director responded the City currently uses
SeeClickFix for street safety concerns; stated the Vision Zero Task Force meets
regularly and analyzes street safety concerns input into the site; staff can then look and
see on a map where concerns are most concentrated throughout the City; she will look
into the suggestion.
***
(25-491) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated a motion is needed to consider the remaining
items after 11 p.m., suggested a motion be made to continue until midnight.
The City Clerk noted the motion includes considering the remaining Regular Agenda
Item, the two pulled Consent Calendar Items and the Council Communication Item.
Vice Mayor Pryor moved approval.
Councilmember Boller seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote —
5.
***
Vice Mayor Pryor expressed appreciation for community outreach efforts; stated one of
the goals is to invest in infrastructure now, before improvements become more costly in
the future; the longer the City waits, the more expensive it will become and there will be
consequences to safety and quality of life; suggested including the community in order
to come up with solutions.
Councilmember Daysog suggested having very specific data organized into standard
infrastructure-related categories; stated there are certain cost implications for
maintaining streets in different conditions; the reason he did not support the
infrastructure bond proposal last year is due to a lack of specific data; specific projects
must be identified so residents know what will be funded; if an infrastructure bond were
to return to Council, this is something he would be looking for.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she has great faith in the voters being able to make
their own decisions; if the measure does not get to the ballot, voters do not get to weigh
in and streets and other infrastructure are now that much older; encouraged Council to
be open minded and listen to staff who are subject-matter experts.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he proudly voted against the infrastructure measure
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September 2,2025 14
due to a lack of specificity.
Councilmember Jensen stated while data is necessary when referring to specific
projects, streets, and intersections, she is not interested in tying the hands of staff by
specifying where every dollar will go; a lot of data already shows what Alamedans want
and where they see problems thanks to SeeClickFix; while not all tickets are relevant,
many are about intersections, street lights, and landscaping; suggest staff use the data
and return to Council.
(25-492) Recommendation to Receive Rise Up Alameda (Guaranteed Income Pilot
Program) 12-Month Interim Report.
The Development Manager gave a Power Point presentation.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the staff report states an Advisory Board was formed to
support Rise Up to help guide and inform decision making on key program elements;
inquired how many people are on the Advisory Board and what agencies they come
from.
The Development Manager responded the Advisory Board is made up of City staff from
the Housing and Human Resources Department and representatives from the Social
Service Human Relations Board (SSHRB), Alameda Unified School District (AUDS),
Alameda Food Bank (AFB) and Alameda Point Collaborative (APC).
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated findings included no outcome changes in employment and
housing; next steps include Operation Dignity offering free financial benefits counseling
to recipients when payments end; inquired whether staff has been offering assistance
up until now.
The Development Manager responded staff offered counseling benefits at the beginning
of the program and will continue to do so while offboarding; stated staff has been
conducting outreach since the beginning of August and has lined up benefits counselors
to be available during the offboarding period from now through at least the end of the
year; staff may consider extending the services depending on the needs.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether financial literacy classes are being offered.
The Development Manager responded staff is currently working with Operation Dignity
to identify what the financial training may look like; stated whatever is offered to the
control group would also have to be offered to the general public.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether anything can be done to help improve
employment and housing outcomes; inquired whether participants are being offered
resources, such as employment and job skill training, or training for navigating the
housing market.
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The Development Manager responded staff could offer such resources to the program
participants in a way that will not negatively affect the research; whatever is offered to
the program participants, will also be offered to the general public.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the recipients will continue to be followed and
surveyed when they are no longer receiving the monthly income, to which the
Development Manager responded in the affirmative; stated a 24-month survey will begin
in December; staff will also be in regular communication with the participants to help
with the narrative storytelling component.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether there are opportunities for employment and job
skills training, to which the Development Manager responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what such training will look like, to which the Development
Manager responded staff is currently in talks with Operation Dignity about contracting
for such services to determine what workshops will look like; stated scheduling has yet
to be worked out.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated it is important to support families and reduce
homelessness; she was happy to read that participants had more time to be able to
participate with their families and create a stronger family environment; Rise Up
recipients showed greater financial stability and resilience and were more likely than the
control group to be able to handle a financial emergency; offering this intervention and
seeing those outcomes is meaningful.
Vice Mayor Pryor stated based on the success of similar programs in other cities, she
was optimistic about the pilot program and would love for it to be expanded; this is
another way to improve the quality of life for local residents.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read and presented a proclamation in recognizing of the
Development Manager's retirement.
The Development Manager made brief comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR - ITEMS REMOVED FOR DISCUSSION
(25-493) Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on July 1,
2025.
Regarding July 1, 2025 regular meeting Consent Calendar items, Councilmember
Daysog stated that voting no on the Memorandums of Understandings, he had concern
about certain double-digit equity adjustments; he also meant to vote no on the final
passage of the ordinance approving sale of City owned property to Pacific Fusion.
Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the minutes.
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September 2,2025 16
Councilmember Jensen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
(25-494) Recommendation to Accept a City of Alameda Annual Communications
Report.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she pulled the item because it is a great report and
she wanted to share with the public the work that is being done, specifically on social
media and the City site, and share information on upcoming workshops; however, due
to the late hour, she would like to move the item forward.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Council could comment on an item without
pulling it, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she intended to pull the item and informed staff,
however, due to the late hour, she would rather not discuss it at this time.
Councilmember Jensen moved approval of accepting the report.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
(25-495) The City Manager encouraged residents to visit the Alameda Police
Department's website to learn more about the Beat Meetings taking place this month;
stated regarding Flock camera concerns, the Police Chief spoke with the City's Flock
Representative who confirmed no City of Alameda data is being shared with
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or any other agency; Flock confirmed that
all Flock customers own and control their own data and Flock never sells or shares
customer data without an explicit customer request to do so; Flock is in compliance with
California State law; all California law enforcement agencies do not have access to
national look-up for immigration enforcements; tickets are on sale for the annual Portola
Music Festival, which takes place on September 20 and 21; event organizers have
taken additional steps to mitigate noise and vibrations and a hotline has been set-up to
respond to noise issues in real time; announced the Sustainability and Resilience
Manager received a Hidden Hero of the Greenbelt Award from the Greenbelt Alliance;
stated the Institute of Local Government selected the City of Alameda as the winner of
the 2025 Beacon Leadership and Innovation Award for Cross Agency Collaboration and
Climate Adaptation; the celebration and acceptance of the award will take place at the
League of California Cities Annual Conference in Long Beach in October where Mayor
Ezzy Ashcraft will accept the award.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
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COUNCIL REFERRALS
None.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(25-496) Designation of Voting Delegates and Alternates for the League of California
Cities Annual Conference.
The City Clerk noted that Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft currently serves as the delegate and will
be attending the Annual Conference; Vice Mayor Pryor will also be attending and is
willing to serve as the alternate.
Councilmember Boller moved approval of Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft serving as the delegate
and Vice Mayor Pryor serving as the alternate.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
(25-497) Councilmember Daysog stated that he attended the 100th Anniversary of St.
Barnabas Church on behalf of the Mayor on August 24; stated August 6 was National
Night Out and he attended three different events on the West End; on August 7, he
attended the Civilian Employee of the Quarter and Enlisted Personnel of the Quarter at
Coast Guard Island.
(25-498) Councilmember Boller stated that he attended the Oakland Airport Noise
Forum on July 16, a ribbon cutting for new businesses at the Grand Marina on July 17
and for a chiropractor on July 24, the Firefighter's Annual Pancake Breakfast on July 27,
National Night Out, and the Alameda Sister Cities Association dinner on August 9.
(25-499) Vice Mayor Pryor stated that she attended the 4th of July Awards Ceremony on
behalf of the Mayor; on July 31st, she attended the AC Transit Interagency Liaison
Committee meeting; she also attended the World Baseball Tournament event in August,
the Varazze Dinner and several grand openings.
(25-500) Councilmember Jensen stated that she visited new retailers on July 17 at
Grand Marina; on August 2, she attended a tour of Alameda Point with the Restoration
Advisory Board; she attended the World Team Baseball Tournament from August 3 to 9
and hosted two young men from Italy who were in Alameda for the Tournament; on
August 5, she attended National Night Out and later attended a Fernside meeting in her
neighborhood; she attended the Sister City Celebration on August 9; on August 13, she,
alongside the American Legion, attended a learning presentation from five Alameda
High School students who participated in the 2025 Boys and Girls State; gave a shout
out for RE:Source, an app and website where users can find nearby options for used,
repair, recycling, and safe disposal of over 400 items across 3,000 local vendors; stated
on August 25, the American Bar Association bestowed the Hodson Award for the City
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Attorney's outstanding work to support the residents of Barnhill Marina.
(25-501) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she attended the tour of Alameda Point with
the Restoration Advisory Board; on August 3, she made opening remarks at the World
Baseball Tournament; on August 5, she attended two National Night Out events and
later attended the Fernside neighborhood event; on August 13, she attended the
American Legion presentation; the Alameda League of Women Voters asked her to
record a video for Alameda high school students, encouraging them to register to vote
and vote in every election; on August 27, she attended the Hidden Heroes of the
Greenbelt Award Ceremony.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 11 :40
p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
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