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2002-04-16 Regular CC MinutesMINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY- -APRIL 16, 2002- -7:30 P.M. Mayor Appezzato convened the Regular Meeting at 7:37 p.m. ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Daysog, DeWitt, Johnson, Kerr and Mayor Appezzato - 5. Absent: None. AGENDA CHANGES None. PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS (02 -158) Proclamation declaring April, 2002 as Child Care Appreciation Month in the City of Alameda. Mayor Appezzato read the proclamation and presented it to Lonnie Walker, Director, Woodstock Child Care Development Center; Martha Lyons, President, Alameda Family Child Care Association; and Leslie Medine, Home Sweet Home. Melinda O'Neil, Tiffany Ranish, and Kalie Sanjiyan, students at Home Base High School, commented on child care needs in the City of Alameda. (02 -159) Proclamation declaring April 27, 2002 as Earth Day in the City of Alameda. Mayor Appezzato read the proclamation and presented it to Public Works Environmental Services Administrative Management Analyst. CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the Consent Calendar. Vice Mayor DeWitt seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph number.] ( *02 -160) Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings held on April 2, 2002. Approved. ( *02 -161) Recommendation to adopt Plans and Specifications and Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 1 April 16, 2002 authorize Call for Bids for Signal and Intersection Modifications at Atlantic Avenue, Main Street and Pacific Avenue, and at Atlantic Avenue and Webster Street Project, No. P.W. 07- 01 -21. Adopted. ( *02 -162) Recommendation to approve Cooperative Joint Use Agreement with the Alameda Unified School District. Accepted. ( *02 -163) Recommendation to accept Quarterly Sales Tax Report for Period Ending March 31, 2002 for Sales Transactions in the Fourth Calendar Quarter of 2001. Accepted. ( *02 -164) Resolution No. 13442 "Authorizing Destruction of Certain Finance Department Obsolete Records." Adopted. ( *02 -165) Resolution No. 13443 "Amending the Management and Confidential Employees Association (MCEA) Salary Schedule by Establishing the Salaries for the Classifications of Assistant Line Superintendent, Electrical Equipment Superintendent, Environmental Health and Safety Coordinator, Community Development Program Manager and Assistant City Attorney II." Adopted. ( *02 -166) Ratified bills in the amount of $ 3,080,735.26. REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS (02 -167) Recommendation to adopt FY 2002 -03 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan; adopt Amendment No. 2 to FY 2001 -02 CDBG Action Plan; and authorize negotiation and execution of related Documents, Modifications and Agreements; and (02 -167A) Recommendation to approve FY 2002 -03 CDBG Public Service Funding Allocations. [Social Service Human Relations Board (SSHRB)] Paul Lamohan, Alameda, stated Allied Housing is not receiving CDBG funding; the program provides housing and requires that people be in training or work programs; that he became an insurance agent while on the program. Victor Chavez, Alameda, stated Allied Housing has given him the motivation and determination to better himself; that he is in a training program to become a counselor for teenagers; the program gave his family hope; urged Council to continue funding the program. Fredrika Suelter, Alameda, urged Council to continue funding Allied Housing; stated that she attends school fulltime, works part -time and is raising two children; that she is an Allied Housing applicant; the program cares about making people productive Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 2 April 16, 2002 citizens; cutting the program will make it hard for people who are trying to become productive; there is great need for the program. Ann Johnson, Allied Housing, stated the program cannot make it without CDBG funding; Alameda County Community Action Program (ACAP) alone cannot fund the program; the program is thriving in Alameda; ten families have received subsidized housing and are half way through the program; urged Council to fund Allied Housing. Awanya Russell, Allied Housing, stated the Alameda Housing Scholarship program began about seven months ago; the intensive program includes an application process, a credit check, establishing a plan to survive once the scholarship ends and planning a training program; participants were promised 12 to 24 months subsidy; participants are working, attending school and trying to do their best to succeed in the City. The Community Development Manager stated the recommendation is to continue funding the Allied Housing Scholarship program at $120,000 to continue rent subsidies for the ten individuals currently enrolled in the program; staff proposes to delay the funding decision to better understand the budget presented by Allied Housing; the counseling provided to participants is costly; staff has been working with Allied Housing to obtain budget information and understand service levels; the program is wonderful and staff would like to continue its support; however, staff felt obligated to understand how the allocation of funds works; more information has been received from Allied Housing; a budget amount between $10,000 and $15,000 has been set; there might be money for the program in the fall; Allied Housing receives ACAP funding and staff has brokered funding through the Cal Works program and CDBG funds last year; rather than trying to shift funding, staff would recommend shifting funding later. Mayor Appezzato stated staff recommends moving forward tonight, will continue to review funding for Allied Housing and might come back with an adjustment in the near future. The Community Development Manager stated that staff would return to Council with a reprogramming recommendation, including allocating additional funds to Allied Housing, in October. Councilmember Kerr inquired whether the Allied Housing's funding for rental subsidies is going forward, to which the Community Development Manager responded in the affirmative. Carol Graywing, Conciliation Forums, thanked the City for recommending conflict resolution training in the community; noted Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 3 April 16, 2002 the conflict resolution and mediation training would be compatible with City staff's interest based negotiations training. Jim Franz, American Red Cross, outlined services provided by the American Red Cross; requested Council to approve continuation of funding to allow the Red Cross to continue helping Alamedans in need. Ed Dankworth, SSHRB, stated that he was present to withdraw the SSHRB's letter requesting that Allied Housing be included in the current CDBG allocation since staff will address the matter in the future. Elaine deColiggy, Midway Shelter, thanked staff for recommending funding for Midway and the SSHRB for supporting the recommendation; urged Council to approve funding; stated Alameda is a tremendous, compassionate community; there is tremendous volunteer support, including donation of dinners; over 50 Alamedans have stayed at the shelter during the 15 months it has been open; over 200 people have been served; changes to the shelter have been acknowledged by the Alameda County Continuum of Care noting that it meets or exceeds health and safety standards; the Midway Shelter has improved because of City support, community volunteers and Shelter staff; the program is being turned into a flagship in the County; the Shelter can only provide so much at an emergency shelter stay; that she supports the [Allied Housing] Alameda Housing Scholarship Program; sometimes people need more than one hand up; the Housing Scholarship is the second hand that ensures people do not end up back in Midway. Mayor Appezzato complimented Ms. DeColingy for running a very good program. Vice Mayor DeWitt inquired whether Building Futures for Women and Children was directly associated with the Shelter. Ms. DeColingy responded Building Futures is the non - profit organization, which partners with the Alameda Homeless Network to run the Shelter; Building Futures operate a shelter in San Leandro and will operate the shelter at the former Naval Air Station; Midway is one of four housing programs operated by Building Futures; Building Futures could not operate without the Network, which fund - raises and ensures dinners are donated every night. John Spangler, Alameda, stated non - profits have to fund raise; people in need should be taken care of; urged the Allied Housing matter be resolved quickly for the sake of the people in the program. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 4 April 16, 2002 Councilmember Kerr stated the Homeless Collaborative at the former Navy Base, which is occupying military housing, has received a great deal of assistance from the City for infrastructure and building a new complex; future tax increment money from the City's redevelopment areas is dedicated to a large housing project; there is a counseling program and medical clinics; further stated Sentinel Fair Housing's funding is for counseling in fair housing and said mission should be understood; that she supports fair housing. Councilmember Daysog stated Allied Housing receives $120,000 for a Housing Scholarship program; the Housing Scholarship program helps pay for rents; CDBG funding paid for services managed by Allied Housing; the program has demonstrated success; funding for Allied Housing should be found; that he serves as the Vice Chair for ACAP; ACAP has directed grantees, including Allied Housing, to not rely solely on ACAP funds and to diversify funding sources; providing $120,000 for rents will mean nothing without offering support services. Mayor Appezzato inquired whether ACAP might be able to provide an additional $20,000 in funding for Allied Housing. Councilmember Daysog responded ACAP is reviewing ways to increase funding sources, e.g. PG &E has committed to provide a grant; money from the State will be partnered with private sector dollars; ACAP is in the process of being innovative and expanding its revenue base; organizations which have performed well should be supported. Mayor Appezzato stated the SSHRB recommends that Council move forward; Development Services will look for additional funds for Allied Housing. Councilmember Johnson stated there are limited funds; almost every organization will receive less funding than requested; some requests did not receive any funding; the SSHRB has reviewed the matter; staff has the responsibility to ensure budgets make sense before approving funding; the City will work to get more money for Allied Housing. Councilmember Johnson moved approval of the staff recommendation. Councilmember Kerr seconded the motion. Under discussion, Mayor Appezzato requested the Development Services Manager to update Council on the status of possible funding for Allied Housing in the future. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 5 April 16, 2002 Councilmember Daysog stated that he would not support the motion; there is a policy question about finding funding for organizations which have produced solid outcomes. Vice Mayor DeWitt stated the SSHRB has reviewed the matter and hearings were held; there was an opportunity for input; the SSHRB supports the recommendation; money provided for organizations is limited. Mayor Appezzato stated the City received $1.6 Million from the federal government for CDBG programs; there is never enough funding; the City will continue to locate funding for Allied Housing. On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers DeWitt, Johnson, Kerr and Mayor Appezzato - 4. Noes: Councilmember Daysog - 1. (02 -168) Recommendation to award Contract(s) for Solid Waste Disposal Services, Solid Waste Collection Services, and Recycling and Organic Materials Collection and Processing Services; authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute Agreement(s) for these services; authorize additional staff to support these services; and authorize the establishment of a Public Services Mitigation Fee. Mayor Appezzato stated the City of Alameda has funded three initiatives during the last year and a half: a library bond initiative, a school initiative and a hospital initiative; budget considerations show that the City might be able to save $1 Million per year for five years; Council will consider establishment of a public service mitigation fee; since the community has supported quality of life issues, he proposes that the City not accept the additional money as a mitigation fee and that $1 Million per year be returned to the citizens of Alameda in reduced waste and recycling bills; there will be no rate increases for the next two years; that he suggests money be returned to the citizens in reduced bills for recycling and garbage. Councilmember Johnson noted residents also passed a measure to continue the Utility Users Tax. The Deputy Public Works Director gave a Power Point presentation outlining the procurement process and the staff recommendation. Mayor Appezzato complimented City staff, consultants and citizen volunteers for their work; stated the Council implemented a recycling program five years ago; the City is now the number one City in the County for waste diversion and has exceeded the State Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 6 April 16, 2002 mandate; the City should be proud of its accomplishments. Councilmember Daysog stated the City Manager and staff suggested savings be used to address fiscal problems; inquired whether decision should be delayed to review parameters on the Mayor's rebate proposition. Mayor Appezzato stated that he would not withdraw his suggestion; the savings would be about $50 per family per year; if money is needed later on, the City should be upfront with the citizens. Councilmember Daysog stated the savings would be $4.50 per month, which is a substantial savings; however, there are policy considerations. Councilmember Kerr stated Waste Management came in with the lowest bid; staff recommends hiring an additional City employee using the mitigation fee; the City spends $770,000 on employee expenses to deal with the current solid waste and recycling programs; the additional $130,000 proposed would bring the City's cost up to $900,000, which seems high. Mayor Appezzato stated that his suggestion is to rebate the extra savings after accommodating all expenses, including $130,000 for new staff. Vice Mayor DeWitt stated the staff report recommendation is to award the Solid Waste Disposal Contract to Waste Management; inquired whether said Contract differed from residential pickup. The Deputy Public Works Director responded in the affirmative; stated the Disposal Contract provider takes garbage from the transfer facility to the landfill. Vice Mayor DeWitt stated the staff recommendation is to combine the [solid waste and recycling pickup] services and award the Contract to Alameda County Industries (ACI); currently, there is a weekly pickup of garbage and bi- monthly pickup of recyclables; inquired whether there would be weekly pickup of recyclables. The Deputy Public Works Director responded both recyclables and yard waste would be picked up on a weekly basis. Councilmember Johnson inquired whether recycling for multi - family and businesses would be required, to which the Deputy City Attorney responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Johnson inquired whether the City currently has Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 7 April 16, 2002 recycling for businesses. The Deputy Public Works Director responded the program for businesses is not mandatory; requiring the program is new. Councilmember Johnson stated that she supports the idea of offering recycling for paint and batteries; inquired whether said option was included in all recycling proposals. The Deputy Public Works Director stated Waste Management proposed the program; currently, no other proposal includes said program; Council could request staff to negotiate for the program. Councilmember Johnson stated batteries and paint not picked up and disposed of properly might end up in the garbage; inquired whether food waste pickup would begin for commercial immediately. The Deputy Public Works Director responded in the affirmative; and noted that the new contract would begin February 2003. Councilmember Johnson inquired whether proposals include the price of residential food waste pickup, to which the Deputy Public Works Director responded in the affirmative. In response to Councilmember Johnson's inquiry regarding annual garbage pickup, the Deputy Public Works Director stated the City would still have annual events; there will be one scheduled Citywide event in addition to each household calling for a pickup once a year. Councilmember Johnson inquired whether the weekly recycling pickup would be in two trucks or whether there would be a combined recycling truck. The Deputy Public Works Director responded that the type of vehicle depends upon the provider selected; split -body trucks collect both types of recycling at the same time; Star System trucks [proposed by Alameda County Industries] require individual [separate] trucks. Mayor Appezzato called a recess at 9:17 p.m. and reconvened the Regular Meeting at 9:30 p.m. Mayor Appezzato stated the rebate should go to residents only - -all homes and multiple units; commercial businesses should not receive a rebate; that he supports a rebate of $50 to $60 per resident, to thank citizens for passing three initiatives over the last two Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 8 April 16, 2002 years. Councilmembers Daysog stated that he supports the Mayor's [rebate] idea. Tom Padia, Alameda County Waste Management Authority, commended the City of Alameda for the open process; stated there was an extraordinarily broad review and input process for the very important contract; the City included a very aggressive and progressive plan for increased diversion of materials from landfill to help the County meet the 75% diversion goal by 2010. Brian Matthews, Alameda County Waste Management Authority, commended staff on the inclusive process; stated the Authority supports diversion of commercial and residential food waste to meet the Countywide 75% diversion goal by 2010; implementing the residential food waste collection program in a phased approach is prudent and gives the City and provider an opportunity to adjust the program for maximum diversion and public acceptance. Del Blaylock, Alameda, stated ACI, operating as Alameda Recycling, has supported non - profit organizations in the community, including the Mayor's 4th of July Parade, the Boys and Girls Club and Meals on Wheels; the company [ACI] wants to be a part of the City of Alameda and has done an excellent job; encouraged Council to accept the City Manager's recommendation and select ACI; thanked ACI for everything that its done for the charities in Alameda. Dave MacDonald, Waste Management of Alameda County (WMAC), stated Waste Management appreciate staff's recommendation to select the company for the City's waste disposal services; WMAC is disappointed that it did not receive staff's recommendation for the combined collection service; the evaluation performed by staff and others was very close; staff indicated that WMAC was less competitive in vehicle technology, management allocation, jurisdiction references, and educational programs; with respect to vehicle technology, WMAC was considering customers; using only two trucks per collection in neighborhoods would better serve customers; with respect to management allocation, WMAC offered a team of six management employees allocating 15% to 300 of their time; WMAC would dedicate as much management time as necessary to ensure Alameda's program was an outstanding success; with respect to jurisdiction references, WMAC meets with most of its jurisdictions on a monthly basis to discuss issues; recent surveys in Alameda indicate a very high level of customer service satisfaction; with respect to education programs, WMAC has offered two fulltime people and is prepared to provide an outstanding education program; Waste Management has been servicing the citizens Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 9 April 16, 2002 of Alameda for over twenty years, has over 60 active and retired employees living in Alameda and has been a good corporate citizen; WMAC would like to continue servicing Alameda customers. Bill Stalman, Alameda, commented on the high quality of Waste Management employees. Doug Linney, Alameda, stated that he served as Chair of the City's Solid Waste Recycling Task Force twelve years ago; Alameda has a proud tradition of a high recycling rate; an important component of the next phase of recycling is the food waste program; Norcal is the only company with the knowledge, experience and which is fully permitted to start handling food waste; Norcal is the leader in the field of food waste composting; complimented staff on doing a great job reviewing the proposals; stated however, the best technical and overall service proposal, which is Norcal, was not recommended; the primary reason was the issue of cost; a recycling contract should emphasize the diversion rate; Alameda should have the best service and best waste diversion rate, which would be provided by Norcal at a lower price than current services; urged Council to select Norcal. Jack Bertram, Alameda, stated Waste Management has demonstrated social responsibility; when the Rotary Club of Alameda held a fund raising Crab Feast on the Hornet, Waste Management provided a 20- yard dumpster at no cost after only a phone call; Waste Management has demonstrated its commitment to citizens; Waste Management offered battery and paint disposal. Mayor Appezzato noted Alameda County Waste Management Authority has a facility that collects hazardous waste, such as oil, paint and batteries on the Embarcadero; however, curb pickup would be advantageous. Justine Livingston, Alameda, stated Waste Management pickup service has been perfect; that she has never had a problem; drivers are extremely friendly and are always the same people; drivers patrol the streets while picking up garbage; Alameda Recycling always has different drivers; that she has never had a problem with Waste Management's billing; Alameda Recycling doubled her fee a year ago; she complained and wrote numerous letters; Alameda Recycling never answered the phone or responded to her letters and turned her over to a collection agency; her bill finally dropped down to zero, but after a couple of months she was billed double again; urged Council to retain Waste Management's good service. Jon Spangler, Alameda, stated that he appreciates the thoroughness of the presentation and the work done by City staff; that he is Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 10 April 16, 2002 looking forward to upping the diversion percentage at his house; that he agrees with the payment structure recommended by staff; City programs should not be put at risk to make recycling and garbage bills a little smaller; people should have to pay for what they throw away, whether it is recycled or put in the trash; urged Council to maintain the staff recommendation. Soledad Alberto, Golden Gate Disposal, stated that he is an Alameda resident and an employee of Norcal; Norcal is very dedicated to servicing the people of San Francisco; Alameda should have the same experience. John Glaub, Norcal Waste Systems, stated Alameda would receive extra services with Norcal at costs less than current rates; all proposals were below current rates; there is flexibility to save money and at the same time select the best service; with Norcal, the City would get the highest diversion of materials from landfill, rather than the lowest; diversion quantities are contractual commitments with financial penalties, not just estimates without any consequences; Norcal is the only all -union proposal and does not use non -union processing facilities to lower costs; Norcal is the national leader in food waste collection and composting and has a fully - permitted composting facility which is a leading food waste composting facility in the State of California; Norcal would provide a full -time management team for the City of Alameda, including a full -time General Manager and a full -time Customer Service Manager; Norcal would become a local company locating five customer service personnel and two public- outreach personnel in the City of Alameda; one outreach person would be dedicated entirely to the commercial sector and one to residential, including multi - family; based on Norcal's experience, said staffing level would be necessary to make the food waste collection program successful; the new contract requires providing electronic bill payment, or e- payment; Norcal has a well- established electronic payment system that has been in operation for several years and was even featured in a New York Times newspaper article; Norcal earned the highest level of satisfaction reported by the jurisdiction served; urged Council to provide residences and businesses with additional environmental and customer service benefits available from Norcal at cost below current rates. Michael Sangiacomo, Norcal Waste Systems, stated Norcal is 100% - employee -owned and is the only service provider proposing an all - union workforce; although the cost is about 12.5% to 15% higher, staff recommends using Waste Management's disposal facility because the facility is environmentally superior to the alternative; however, staff's sound reasoning [selecting an environmentally superior provider] did not apply to collection and diversion Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 1 1 April 16, 2002 services; Norcal's proposal to the City of Alameda offers the best solid waste collection and diversion services; the staff report states: " Norcal has the best overall service proposal;" Norcal's service far exceeds the requirements contained in the RFP; the staff report also states: " Norcal had the strongest technical proposal;" Norcal's proposal is built on aggressive diversion services; Norcal's experience is unmatched for the three -key diversion initiatives: 1) food waste pickup would be available for all residences and businesses beginning the first day of service; 2) an aggressive commercial recycling program would be offered; and 3) a multi - family service plan would be included; food waste recyclingwill be the most fundamental change to solid waste services over the next ten years; Norcal is the leader in food waste recycling in the country and has been collecting and recycling food waste for five years; most other companies do not provide said service; the staff recommended a service provider with no experience and with a compost facility that is not permitted to accept food waste; Council has the choice of going with a demonstrated leader or taking the risk with an inexperienced service provider; urged Council to choose the best for the environment. Ann Reno, Alameda, urged Council to vote to retain Waste Management as the City's service provider; stated Waste Management has provided stellar service to the City of Alameda; many employees and retirees of Waste Management reside in Alameda; Waste Management employees go the extra step to take garbage piles next to overflowing garbage cans and wait for people rushing to bring out garbage at pickup time; Waste Management dedicates itself to providing the community with the best possible service; Waste Management has adjusted routes to keep noise levels at a minimum and adjusted routes to assist with traffic issues; Waste Management is actively involved in organizations such as Alameda Meals on Wheels, Boys and Girls Club, and the Park Street Art and Wine Fair; Waste Management got to be the leader in residential garbage collection in the United States by being actively involved in the community; polls taken throughout the City indicate 680 of the community wants to keep Waste Management. Eric Horton, Republic Services, commended staff, consultants and members of the Solid Waste Franchise Team for professionalism, diligence and hard work throughout the process; stated Republic Services would give back $8.5 to $18 million to the City of Alameda in its disposal proposal; Republic Services was the recommended [disposal] service provider at all meetings, until the staff report was published last week; that he delivered a letter to Council with a recap of Republic's proposal to date identifying the approximate $8.5 million savings and an alternate proposal; the alternate Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 12 April 16, 2002 proposal could save an additional $10 million; inquired how Council could deprive the Alameda residents of said savings. John Sullivan, Castro Valley, stated that he operates a large apartment complex on Shoreline Drive as well as apartment complexes in downtown San Leandro, which is serviced by ACI; his experience with ACI has been very, very positive; ACI's drivers are courteous and understanding, and office staff is responsive; that he highly recommends ACI; his apartment complex in Alameda is exempted from green waste services because the professional landscaping company hauls away green waste; food waste could be handled in the same manner; requested that no changes be made with regard to offering exemptions if the goal of diverting material from landfill is occurring. Councilmember Kerr inquired whether Mr. Sullivan's apartments have garbage disposals, to which Mr. Sullivan responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Kerr inquired what the minimum charge would be for green waste and food waste; stated staff indicated the charge would not be by apartment; inquired how people would be charged. The Deputy Public Works Director responded there would be a charge by complex; owners can opt to charge by unit; staff does not have the rates because the provider has not been chosen yet; rates will differ based on Council's selection; food waste is not just food, it is any contaminated paper material such as pizza boxes and tissues; almost everything that is now put in garbage cans becomes a food waste; food waste put down the garbage disposal ends up as sludge, which is a disposed product; food waste should end up at the composting facility to become fertilizer. Mayor Appezzato stated that although he has a garbage disposal, he has a compost bin which he uses for food waste; everybody should not opt out; waste will be diverted because Alameda does not have a garbage dump; other cities do not want Alameda's garbage; the City needs to reach 75% diversion. Gary Keep, Norcal Waste Systems, stated that he is an Alameda resident and works in the commercial recycling department at Golden Gate Disposal; that he has managed small business hazardous waste disposal and a wide variety of other recycling- related jobs; the current provider has been doing a fine job; however, Norcal can do a better job; Norcal has a lot of experience with both food waste and composting; Norcal has a great package to offer. Tom Guarino, San Leandro Chamber of Commerce, stated the staff Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 13 April 16, 2002 presentation was very comprehensive and helpful; ACI and Waste Management are both members of the San Leandro Chamber; both companies are outstanding members, very good corporate citizens and very community- oriented; ACI has taken over San Leandro's service rather seamlessly; Waste Management does an outstanding job running the Davis Street Transfer Station; San Leandro has been working with ACI on the food waste issue and is looking forward to said service; encouraged Council to consider both companies. Rodolfo Lopez, Alameda, stated that he works for Norcal Waste Systems; Norcal is a good company; awarding the contract to Norcal would be wonderful. Robert DeMartini, Norcal Waste Systems, stated that his team of employees visited Alameda to review garbage issues and the current state of recycling; Norcal believes in educating customers; Norcal employees actively seek out customers and customize programs; recycling should be maximized; customers should be persuaded not to use garbage containers; food waste containers cannot simply be placed at the curb; Norcal continually goes back after customers, tailoring services and educating; Norcal will bring a commitment to recycling to Alameda. Debby Dunn, Norcal Waste Systems, stated Norcal is nationally - recognized for its organics program and outreach materials, which outline everything that can go in the organics bin; that she has had the opportunity to watch both residential and commercial customers significantly increase their recycling; programs and training allow customers to recycle an amazing 50% to 900 of the materials they generate; the residents and businesses in Alameda would greatly benefit from Norcal's innovative programs and excellent customer service. David Edwards, Alameda, stated that he has been fairly happy with Waste Management's collection techniques, methods and services; drivers are friendly and wave and talk to customers. Vince Petrie, Alameda, stated Alameda should recycle as much waste as possible; that he supports the proposal from Norcal Waste System because it has the highest amount of diversion; that he is willing to pay more; Norcal workers are hard working and friendly due to the employee -owned structure; Norcal offers the type of service needed in Alameda. David Luo, Alameda, stated that he works for Norcal Waste Systems; Norcal's hazardous waste facility is one of the best of its kind and accepts used motor oil, paints, batteries and other household chemicals; over 800 of the material residents bring is recycled; Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 14 April 16, 2002 Norcal offers good union jobs, fair wages and good medical benefits; the company is 100% employee- owned; Norcal does a good job for the City of San Francisco and can do an even better job for Alameda. Patricia Reilly, Alameda, stated that about 10 years ago, she was awakened by a garbage truck at about 6:30 a.m.; she called to complain and a supervisor returned her call a half hour later; the supervisor assured her that the early pickup would never happen again and stated if there were ever any more problems, she should call him personally; she has never heard another garbage truck at 6:30 a.m.; her 83- year -old always chats with the drivers and they are terrific to her; drivers are gracious about taking something extra away; her mothers gives drivers advice on how to do their job and they listen politely; Waste Management gives reliable, cheerful, good service. Frank Sandoval, Alameda, stated that he owns a restaurant in San Francisco and deals with Sunset Scavenger Company, which is a part of Norcal; by using commercial food waste recycling, he has reduced his garbage bill by 70%; Norcal's service is really good; urged Norcal be selected as Alameda's provider. John McCabe, Solid Waste Franchise Team (SWFT) Member, thanked staff for all the opportunities for SWFT members and the community to participate in the process, make decisions and have input; stated that he supports the staff recommendation; elected officials should be fiscally responsible and ensure that the City has money to provide services; there is an opportunity to reduce the cost to the City; that he would prefer to have better services, rather than receive the suggested rebate of $4.50 on garbage and recyclables bills. Louie Pellegrini, Alameda County Industries (ACI), thanked the City for the process that was completed; stated it has been one of the most fair and straightforward processes; ACI is pleased with the staff recommendation; companies had every opportunity to respond to issues on proposals; ACI is proud to be part of the City of Alameda's achievement in increasing recycling through Alameda Recycling in the last five years; ACI knows about going through a transition and bringing in new services; ACI proved itself in the City of San Leandro, when the City's garbage collection was privatized; ACI is in the process of implementing a food waste collection system in San Leandro, which will probably be on line prior to startup in Alameda; ACI has good labor relations with Local 70 and its employees; ACI's proposal has more routes and drivers than other proposals; ACI's overall staffing is larger than other proposals; food waste is cutting -edge technology; food waste Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 15 April 16, 2002 has been collected for years in garbage cans; now, ACI will motivate residents and customers to put food waste in different cans; ACI's food waste processing is at the State level for permitting; that he is confident ACI will be able to perform food waste collection and processing. Bill Dobert, ACI, stated ACI is honored and proud to be recommended by staff; staff took months to review proposals; the process was delayed for three months to resolve additional questions; companies had to provide 11 different service options; ACI's customer service ranked highest; staff believes ACI can handle food waste processing and collection; ACI's proposal includes an Alameda Recycling Coalition to reach people, businesses, the community and schools; the program includes working with Alameda Power and Telecom and putting composting bins in all elementary schools; the compost will be used to plant rose gardens throughout the City, parks and senior centers; a Waste -Not program will also be created; a supervisor in an electric cart will knock on residents doors to find out whether or not there is recycling in their garbage container and will provide a $100 gift certificate for downtown merchants; to be involved, merchants simply have to be part of the business recycling program; ACI has discussed the matter with the business associations, which are very excited about the program; ACI will hire people to be trainers for the kids at the Boys and Girls Club; an environmental curriculum will be developed for teacher training programs; high school students will be brought to ACI for job shadowing and career opportunity programs; ACI will offer internships; commended staff for its work. Sebastian Baldassarree, Alameda, commended the City Manager and staff for doing a great job involving the citizens of Alameda with the recommendation; stated ACI, better known as Alameda Recycling, has done a tremendous job during the past five years; Alameda Recycling is a part of the community and has been involved with partnering with Alameda Power and Telecom on the Earth Day event last year, as well as supporting Alameda Meals on Wheels, the Mastick Senior Center, the Chamber of Commerce, businesses, and the Alameda Civic Light Opera; urged Council to approve the staff recommendation. Mayor Appezzato thanked everyone for being courteous; noted the process was extended to address concerns; the decision will be difficult. Councilmember Daysog thanked staff for the community input process and for grading providers; stated 22 areas were reviewed; adding by percentage, the total rating for ACI was 2.894 and Waste Management had 2.706; Norcal was rated highest in 9 categories, while Waste Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 16 April 16, 2002 Management was highest in 8 and ACI in 7 categories; that he believes Waste Management should have received a higher score for education because it has a facility for children to learn about environmental and solid waste disposal issues; said scoring would change the results to give Waste Management the highest overall rating; the City is trying to garner savings, which can be used for City services, such as sidewalks and street repair; the savings would be greater with Waste Management, which submitted a proposal costing $8 Million, versus $8.2 Million for the next closest [ACI]; Norcal made a great case for diversion; the matter should be delayed for two weeks to address the savings [rebate]; thanked the Mayor for making the [rebate] suggestion; stated City staff's idea to use savings was a great idea. Councilmember Kerr stated the overall cost for ACI's combined services is $8.2 Million and Waste Management's cost is $8 Million; on franchise tonnage diversion, ACI would divert 37% and Waste Management would divert 450; on recyclables, ACI would divert 11,800 tons and Waste Management would divert 12,500 tons; for organic material ACI would divert 7,100 tons and Waste Management would divert 11,600 tons; Waste Management proposed to use one combined truck for recyclables, rather than two trucks, which would save wear and tear on streets; recyclables in her neighborhood are picked up very early; that the criteria she values are: 1) diversion and Waste Management has larger diversion; 2) cost, and Waste Management's proposal is the lowest; and 3) use of two trucks, rather than three; regarding the Mayor's proposal to rebate the mitigation fee, the City has extra wear and tear on streets from trucks; money should be retained because everyone has been concerned about street conditions; savings should be shared with residents; however, the City should retain enough to repair streets; that she does not support hiring an additional Program Specialist and increasing the City's expense to $900,000 per year; the City should be able to supervise the Contract on $770,000 per year. Councilmember Johnson requested staff to describe the truck that will be used by Waste Management. The Deputy Public Works Director stated Waste Management would use a split truck and would combine refuse and green waste; staff was concerned about contamination issues; there are seasons fluctuations with volumes of green waste and recyclables; contamination occurs when the trucks run out of room or are not balanced properly. Councilmember Kerr stated if one side fills up, Waste Management returns to the transfer station rather than continuing collection. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 17 April 16, 2002 The Deputy Public Works Director responded that staff's polling of other cities indicates that contamination issues still persist. Councilmember Johnson stated food waste recycling is important to reduce solid waste; inquired whether staff is confident all companies can handle said issue. The Deputy Public Works Director responded in the affirmative. In response to Councilmember Johnson's inquiry whether staff had concerns regarding ACI's ability to handle food waste, the Deputy Public Works Director responded there were no concerns regarding experience; the permit at the Grover Facility must be amended, however, regulators indicated that there should not be any problem with adding food waste to the permit. Councilmember Johnson stated that she is impressed with Norcal's food waste recycling; cost is important; people have indicated that there is no need for change; combining the services provides a significant cost savings; the Mayor's suggestion to rebate the mitigation fee to residents is good; residents have voted for tax measures; the City should try to save money for residents. Vice Mayor DeWitt stated that he supports the staff recommendation; combining services provides the largest financial return; quality of service is important; that he knows the quality of service provided by ACI and Waste Management; inquired why the City needs to hire additional staff. The Deputy Public Works Director responded an additional Program Specialist and part -time intern are being requested to oversee public outreach required for new diversions programs, primarily food waste; the City anticipates many questions and requests for customization when food waste is implemented; there is a new mandated commercial program; in addition, the Contract will be based upon performance measures; the company's profit will be based upon an unbiased City survey of customers, which City staff will oversee; staff will also be responsible for calculating diversion rates; outlined current program costs. Mayor Appezzato inquired how many staff members oversee the program currently, to which the Deputy Public Works Director responded 3.05 full time employees. Vice Mayor DeWitt stated that he supports the Mayor's [rebate] suggestion, however, he would like the matter reviewed further; money should go back to the people; there should be further review Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 18 April 16, 2002 of the percentage which will be needed to provide critical services. Mayor Appezzato stated residential homeowners and multi - family unit owners would receive the savings, while commercial users would not receive a rebate. Councilmember Johnson requested staff to describe the pilot program for residential food waste. The Deputy Public Works Director stated there would be extensive education Citywide; for three months, a route would be selected to work out the kinks and identify how to customize the program; after the three -month period, the program would be introduced to the rest of the City; Castro Valley just completed a similar program, which was also used by San Francisco. (02 -168A) Vice Mayor DeWitt moved approval of the staff recommendation to award the Solid Waste disposal contract to Waste Management of Alameda County and authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute the agreement. Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. (02 -168B) Vice Mayor DeWitt moved approval of the staff recommendation to award Combined Collection Services Contract to Alameda County Industries and authorize the City Manager to negotiate and execute the agreement. Councilmember Johnson seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Ayes: Councilmembers DeWitt, Johnson and Mayor Appezzato - 3. Noes: Councilmembers Daysog and Kerr - 2. (02 -168C) Vice Mayor DeWitt moved approval of the staff recommendation to authorize an additional Program Specialist I /II and 0.5 intern to oversee the recycling and performance based requirements of the programs. Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Daysog, DeWitt, Johnson and Mayor Appezzato - 4. Noes: Councilmember Kerr - 1. (02 -168D) Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation to authorize establishment of a public service mitigation fee, with the Mayor's suggestion [regarding rebate]. Mayor Appezzato stated that his suggestion was to rebate Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 19 April 16, 2002 residential customers and maintain [existing] rates for commercial customers. Councilmember Kerr inquired whether the entire savings would be rebated, to which Mayor Appezzato responded the rebate would be pro -rated per parcel. Councilmember Kerr inquired whether funding would be retained for street repair due to the wear and tear on streets. Mayor Appezzato responded in the affirmative; stated the commercial portion would be retained for street repairs; the rebate would go to residential customers only. Vice Mayor DeWitt seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Mayor Appezzato called a recess at 11:03 p.m., and reconvened the Regular Meeting at 11:06 p.m. (02 -169) Ordinance No. 2880, "Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Subsection 8 -8.4 (Official Vehicles Designated Areas) of Section 8 -8 (General Parking Regulations) of Chapter VIII (Traffic and Motor Vehicles), Relating to Parking Spaces on Central Avenue at the Historic Alameda High School." Finally passed. Councilmember Kerr moved final passage of the Ordinance. Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. (02 -170) Ordinance No. 2881, "Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Chapter II (Administration), Chapter VIII (Traffic and Motor Vehicles) , Chapter XI (Bicycles) , Chapter XII (Designated Parking), and Chapter XXII (Streets and Sidewalks), Eliminating the Transportation Advisory Committee and Creating a Transportation Commission and Technical Transportation Team." Finally passed. Vice Mayor Dewitt moved final passage of the Ordinance. Vice Mayor DeWitt inquired whether staff incorporated changes regarding the appeal right based upon discussion at the last Council meeting [April 2, 2002]. The City Manager responded staff incorporated changes. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 2 0 April 16, 2002 The City Attorney stated Subsection 2- 8.5(c) was added and read the language. Councilmember Johnson seconded the motion. John Spangler, Alameda, thanked Council for supporting the Transportation Commission; requested staff to provide information on the selection process and timeline. Mayor Appezzato requested staff to provide said information to Mr. Spangler. Michael Krueger, Alameda Transit Advocates, thanked Council and staff for forming the Commission; stated the Commission will pick up where the Public Transit Committee (PTC) left off. Councilmember Johnson noted the (PTC) recommended the appeal process. Councilmember Kerr stated two committees will be funded at approximately $1/4 Million each for a total of $1/2 Million; an eleven member Commission seems somewhat unwieldy; the cost is too high. Councilmember Johnson stated Vice Mayor DeWitt and she served on the PTC and support the PTC's recommendation; Councilmembers hear many concerns about traffic and transportation; the City cannot continue without addressing the matter in a thorough manner, which can only be accomplished by having a Transportation Commission; the City received benefit from having the PTC; there are regional agencies which the City needs to continue working with to ensure Alameda receives appropriate service levels; the City needs to conduct its own transportation planning. Mayor Appezzato stated transportation is the one issue that comes up with every issue; everyone wants to stop projects due to traffic. The City Manager noted that there would be $258,000 in new costs; of the $247,000 remaining costs, all but loo to 15% would have to be spent and was already being spent to support the Transportation Advisory Committee. On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Daysog, DeWitt, Johnson and Mayor Appezzato - 4. Noes: Councilmember Kerr - 1. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 21 April 16, 2002 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON- AGENDA (02 -171) Sandra Williams, Alameda, discussed racism within the Alameda Police Department and in the City of Alameda. (02 -172) John Spangler, Alameda, stated that gains made by the Public Transit Committee might be erased quickly by AC Transit redistricting; service might be lost in Alameda before the Transportation Commission gets started. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (02 -173) Councilmember Johnson stated that she has heard concerns about hot rodders on Beach Road and provided information to staff. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Mayor Appezzato adjourned the Regular Meeting at 11:20 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Lara Weisiger City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Brown Act. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 22 April 16, 2002