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1995-07-03 Special CC Minutes9 1 MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE ALAMEDA CITY COUNCIL JULY 3. 1995 The meeting convened at 7:34 p.m., with President Appezzato presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Lucas. Reverend Dan Weller, Alameda Community Church, gave the invocation. ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. CONSENT CALENDAR Present Appezzato announced that the following items were pulled for public discussion: 3-B (95-430) [Report from Chair, Golf Commission, recommending Authorization for Request for Qualifications and Proposals for Restaurant and Bar Services at the Chuck Corica Golf Complex]; 3-C (95-431) [Report from Community Development Director regarding Alameda Homebuyers Information Fair]; 3-D (95-432) [Report from Community Development Director on Program to Increase the Number of Lower-Income First-Time Homebuyers]; 3-G (95-433) [Report from Public Works Director recommending Authorization of Agreement for Dockage Rights at Angel Island]; and 3-1 (95-434) [Report from Acting Public Works Director recommending Acceptance of Work by All-Marine Services for Alameda Main Street Ferry Terminal Barge Rehabilitation Project, No. P.W. 08-94-15]. Councilmember Lucas moved approval of the remainder of the Consent Calendar. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk. (*95-422) Minutes of the Special Council Meeting of June 20, 1995; Special Community Improvement Commission Meeting of June 20, 1995; and Regular Council Meeting of June 20, 1995. Approved. (*95-423) Report from Acting Housing Authority Director recommending Waiver of Payment in Lieu of Taxes. Accepted. (*95-424) Report from Chief of Police regarding Authorization for Full-Time Clerical Position in Police Department. Accepted. (*95-425) Report from Acting Public Works Director recommending Support for Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) Language Included in S 440 (U.S. Senate). Accepted. Special Mecun. g In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 9 (*95-426) Report from Planning Director regarding a Fee Waiver request for the reinstatement of a Planned Development Amendment and Design Review. Accepted. (*95-427) Resolution 12669 "Ordering Vacation of Storm Drain Easement Over a Portion of Parcel 3 of Parcel Map 5274 [formerly Parcel 2 of Parcel Map 4728 - 1620 South Loop Road]." Adopted. (*95-428) Resolution 12670 "Authorizing Submittal of Grant Applications for Fiscal Year 1995-96 Assembly Bill 434 60% Funds." Adopted. (*95-429) Bills, certified by the City Manager to be true and correct, were ratified in the sum of $2,494,790.12. Ratified. (95-430) Report from Chair, Golf Commission, recommending Authorization for Request for Qualifications and Proposals for Restaurant and Bar Services at the Chuck Corica Golf Complex. Councilmember Lucas thanked the Golf Commission for being so thorough in preparing the specifications for the new restaurant operation. Councilman Arnerich referred to Page 7, Appendix A, Item No. 2 of the Terms, Conditions and Issues of Request For Proposal (RFP); and suggested that the Term read: [be open for business every day of the year] "from the time the Golf Course opens until the completion of the golf day, and possibly no later than either 10:00 p.m. or 11:00 p.m." Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the report. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95-431) Report from Community Development Director regarding Alameda Homebuyers Information Fair. Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, encouraged attendance at homebuyers' information fairs and seminars. Vice Mayor Mannix moved acceptance of the report. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95-432) Report from Community Development Director on Program to Increase the Number of Lower-Income First-Time Homebuyers. Special Meeting In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 920 Don Bergen, Alameda, addressed the Council in opposition to the Program. Councilmember Lucas moved acceptance of the report. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95-433) Report from Public Works Director recommending Authorization of Agreement for Dockage Rights at Angel Island. Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, stated that Angel Island should be upgraded and that he was working diligently to turn it into an Asian-American historical island. Vice Mayor Mannix moved acceptance of the report. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95-434) Report from Acting Public Works Director recommending Acceptance of Work by All-Marine Services for Alameda Main Street Ferry Terminal Barge Rehabilitation Project, No. P.W. 08-94-15. In response to Councilman Arnerich's inquiry regarding Walther Engineering Services, the Public Works Director stated that Mr. Walther was the City's Consultant; that Mr. Walther prepared the Plans and Specifications and did the inspection work on the Project; that All-Marine Services performed the work; that it was an interim project; that the City expected to do additional work and was applying for additional funds; and that staff recommended acceptance of the work performed by All-Marine. Councilman Arnerich moved acceptance of report. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS (95-420) Report from Chief of Police regarding J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret. (Councilmember Lucas) (Carried over from the June 20, 1995, Regular Council meeting.) Lorena Brown, Alameda, informed Council of various problems which continue to exist; requested an explanation for allowance of such; and further requested that homeowners' rights be honored. Special Meeting In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 221 Michael J. Conroy, Alameda, stated that various problems continue to exist; expressed concerns; and requested that Council respond to the community's complaints. In response to Councilman Arnerich's inquiry, Mr. Conroy stated that his residence was approximately 200 -300 feet from J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret. Helen Bignone, Alameda, informed Council of various problems which continue to exist; displayed various discarded items found in her and neighboring yards and in the street; and requested that the music be discontinued. Luisa A. Marin, Alameda, addressed the Council in opposition to J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret; and expressed fear in residing in an area which caters to unruly patrons. Irma Marin - Nolan, Alameda, addressed the Council in opposition to J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret; informed Council of various problems which continue to exist; stated that due to the lack of security, patrons congregate at Witmore's Gas Station; and requested that Council take action to resolve the matter. Jewel E. Love, Alameda, owner of J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret, addressed the Council in support of J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret; apologized for any inconvenience created in the neighborhood; stated that it was not his intent to disrupt or cause any problems; that his place of business was zoned for entertainment; that he had tried to work with the community and address their concerns; that he had hired individuals to patrol the area and pickup trash, and that he assisted in that endeavor; that he does not serve or promote alcohol; and that he welcomed any suggestions as to how he can succeed and appease the community. President Appezzato stated that the noise factor was a major complaint and there was a strong possibility that a nuisance was taking place at J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret, which to some degree had not been brought under control; and that a solution must be found to resolve the community's problems. The Chief of Police concurred with the comments made by members of the public and Mr. Love; stated that since the first incident at J. Love's Cafe & Cabaret, the Police Department had been working in conjunction with Mr. Love and the surrounding community; that Mr. Love had been amiable to implement the Police Department's many recommendations; that Mr. Love had contracted two police officers on Friday and Saturday nights to help alleviate problems; that Mr. Love had promoted his business well and, conversely, attracted more patrons than the fire code allowance of 230; that the residual crowd of patrons remained in the area which created problems; that for the months of April, May and the first week of June, Alameda Special Meiling In Lien of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 9 r, Vice Mayor Mannix stated that when he requested a report on the issue, he asked for scheduling options; that he was concerned there may be some failure to conform with the ACEA Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU), and would like the matter addressed; that he was not convinced it was necessary to stand still during the City Hall or Library construction periods; that after reviewing the ACEA MOU, he had some questions about whether the four -day work week should be over the well -being of the rank and file employees who really carry the weight of the City; and that he would like the staff report to come back to Council once more with recommendations as to specific options, the timing for those options, and costs for those options. In response to Mayor Appezzato's inquiry regarding an option for staggered hours, Vice Mayor Mannix stated that he would be happy with any option that brought the City back to full service, and that the four descending steps of the MOU needed to be reviewed. Councilmember Lucas stated that the contractor needed time to do the work on the Library, unless the City was willing to pay for night work or weekend work. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that he would like to see that matter addressed in the report, if that was so. Councilman Arnerich addressed budget impacts and constraints; stated that the City Manager had not received a salary increase in six years; that if the City does not take these kinds of steps [four -day work week], Council would have to go to the voters for a tax increase; and that Council would be making a drastic mistake to do anything at this particular time. President Appezzato concurred that the City should go back to a five -day work week as soon as possible; discussed budget impacts and the City's reserve; stated that he does not believe Council can address each item separately; that the four -day work week needs to be taken in the full context of contract negotiations and other costs; that he would not support the raising of taxes; and that if revenue was needed to support salaries, he would only support a tax increase if it goes to the vote of the people. Vice Mayor Mannix stated that cutting back on studies should be looked at before cutting back on services; that he was still not convinced that a return to a five -day work week could not be accomplished with a minimal cost increase by being creative and going to scheduling. Vice Mayor Mannix moved acceptance of the report, and requested that staff report back to Council with a thorough evaluation and series of options. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Special Meeting In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 Councilmember Lucas stated the staff recommendation that the Library be considered for reopening after the installations for the handicapped are completed made sense; and that she would not support the motion unless Council concurred to wait until the Fall of 1995. The motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilman Arnerich, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 3. Noes: Councilmember Lucas - 1. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95 -435) Resolution No. 12671 "Appointing Judy Pollard as a Member of the Historical Advisory Board." Adopted. Councilmember Lucas moved adoption of the Resolution. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. At this time, the City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Pollard. Ms. Pollard accepted the appointment, and thanked the Mayor and City Council. (95 -436) Resolution No. 12672 "Appointing W. Lance Russum as a Member of the Public Utilities Board." Adopted. Councilmember Lucas moved adoption of the Resolution. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. Council recessed at 9:02 p.m. and reconvened at 9:20 p.m. (95 -437) Introduction of Ordinance "Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Adding Subsection 2 -1.9 (Proclamations) to Section 2 -1 (The City Council) Article I (The City Council and Meetings of the City Council), Chapter II (Administration) Thereof, Establishing Proclamation Guidelines." Introduced. The following persons addressed the Council in support of the Ordinance: Don Roberts, Alameda. (support with modifications) Eddie Paul Schutter, Alameda. Shirley C. Cummins, Alameda. Reverend Don Taylor, Alameda. Don Bergen, Alameda. Earl Peacock, Alameda. Special Mating In Lion of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 ») 8 Councilmember Lucas spoke in opposition to converting the East Wing "auto shop" area into a Council Chamber due to costs. Vice Mayor Mannix moved acceptance of the report, rejected converting the East Wing "auto shop" area into a Council Chamber, and directed Cable TV (improvements) in the Little Theater be provided expeditiously. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95 -440) Resolution No. 12673 "Adopting Mitigated Negative Declaration, IS -95 -2, for the Restoration of the Historic Alameda Theatre and the Addition of Four Smaller Auditoriums on the West Side of the Existing Building, including a Rezoning of the Parcel at 2317 Central Avenue from C -2 (Central Business District) to C -2- PD (Central Business District with Planned Development Combining District); A Planned Development for a Sign Program; Payment of Parking Fees in Lieu of 70 Spaces; and Design Review." Adopted. Wayne McAfee, owner of Farmers Insurance Agency, and Alameda Cruise and Tour Center, Alameda, addressed the Council in opposition to the Alameda Theater's proposed hours of operation from noon to mid- night, and anticipated negative repercussions due to the Theater's lack of adequate parking. In response to Councilmember Lucas' concerns regarding changing the Theater's hours of operation and possible financial repercussions, the Planning Director concurred that such a change would impact the Theater's financial feasibility; stated that due to no one speaking in opposition at the Planning Board meeting, that the applicant was confident; and gave an overview of the parking study and components of same. In response to President Appezzato's inquiry regarding permanent parking at the new library site, the Planning Director briefly addressed interim and long -term parking strategies. Vice Mayor Mannix moved adoption of the Resolution. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. (95 -441) Final Passage of Ordinance No. 2696 "Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Subsection 3- 59.4(d) (Telephone Users Tax) of Section 3 -59 (Utility Users Tax), Part C (Use Tax), Article II (Taxation) of Chapter III (Finance and Taxation) Thereof, Deleting Exception of Seniors Who Are Not Low Income." Finally adopted. Special Ming In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 229 Councilmember Lucas moved final passage of the Ordinance. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Arnerich, Lucas, Vice Mayor Mannix and President Appezzato - 4. Noes: None. Absent: Councilmember DeWitt - 1. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (95-437) Shirley C. Cummins, Alameda, stated that she was disappointed that the Ordinance regarding proclamations was not introduced. (Subject matter previously addressed: Item #4-H) (95-442) Diane Coler-Dark, Alameda, stated that she read an inflammatory article in the Alameda Times Star written by Gary Thomas and asked the following questions: 1) where did he get his figures with regards to the City applying for grants to the Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA) for other Naval Air Station (NAS) projects?, and 2) where did he get his information regarding "secret meetings" with the Mayor, the Port of Oakland, University of California, et cetera? Ms. Coler-Dark further commented that statements in the article alluded to the Chamber of Commerce obtaining funding commitments; that there were meetings held without public input at which the City agreed to let 188 acres go to the base closure process. Ms. Coler-Dark stated that Council should request Mr. Thomas, as a Planning Board Member, to substantiate his allegations with facts. President Appezzato stated that it was quite obvious that if Mr. Thomas knew about the meetings, they were not so secret; and that hopefully the issue could be dealt with in the future. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (Communications from Council) (95-443) Councilmember Lucas stated that she and numerous citizens had noticed over the years that the drive-by mailboxes at the South Shore Main Post Office were overflowing with mail on Sunday evenings, and requested that staff contact the Postmaster in an attempt to rectify the problem. (95-444) Councilman Arnerich requested that staff report back regarding community blight [eyesores], e.g. the former gas station site on Webster Street, the gas station site on Park Street next to Cavanaugh Motors, Versailles parking lot at the corner of Versailles and Fernside Avenue; and stated that merchants in Alameda should fix up their buildings; and acknowledged the former Shelby Drapery building on the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Park Street, and the Universal Kitchen building for their improvements. Special Meeting In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995 ADJOURNMENT p.m. (95-445) President Appezzato adjourned the meeting at 11:33 Respectfully submitted, / D NE B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in advance in accordance with the Brown Act. Special Meeting In Lieu of Regular, Alameda City Council, July 3, 1995