Loading...
1994-12-20 Regular CC MinutesMINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE ALAMEDA CITY COUNCIL DECEMBER 20. 1994 The meeting convened at 7:30 p.m. with President Withrow presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Vice Mayor Roth. Venerable Wilfred H. Hodgkin, Archdeacon, Episcopal Diocese of California, gave the invocation. ROLL CALL - MINUTES Present: Councilmembers Appezzato, Arnerich, Lucas, Roth and President Withrow - 5. Absent: None. 94-755 Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of December 6, 1994, and the Special Council Meetings of November 14 (Workshop), November 28 (with Alameda Unified School District), December 3 (Planning Board Workshop), December 6 (Closed Session) and December 12, 1994 (Planning Board Workshop). Councilmember Lucas moved approval; Councilmember Appezzato seconded the motion which carried by unanimous vote - 5; with the exceptions that, due to absence, Councilman Arnerich and Vice Mayor Roth abstained on minutes for December 12. REPORT 94-756 Oral report by Mayor Withrow on the College of Alameda Ad Hoc Advisory Group. Mayor Withrow reported the Ad Hoc Advisory Group spent a great deal of time looking into ways to improve the College of Alameda [COA) and was chaired by Richard Thomas; noted its membership, that it functioned without use of City funds, urges Council to establish a committee consisting of representatives from Alameda businesses and community organizations, Alameda Unified School District and COA; urges creation of a Charter of Excellence for the COA; and recommends the Mayor request Council ensure continuous implementation of provisions of that Charter to guarantee quality college level programs for Alameda citizens, and at the Council's pleasure, monitoring be accomplished through a commission or some other mechanism; gave the background of the formation of the group; stated the report will be forwarded to new Council for consideration. * * * * Following Mayor Withrow's oral report, comments were made by outgoing elected officials. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 Encinal High School Voices of the Gospel choir, with a student from Wood Middle School accompanying the group, performed at the beginning of the recess. * * * Recess * * * REORGANIZATION OF COUNCIL 94-757 Installation of Newly Elected City Officials. Mayor-elect Ralph J. Appezzato Councilmember-elect Karin Lucas Councilmember-elect Charles M. Mannix Councilmember-elect Al DeWitt. The City Clerk requested The Honorable George McDonald, retired Municipal Court Judge to administer the Oath of Office to Mayor- elect Appezzato. Judge McDonald administered the Oath of Office to Mayor-elect Appezzato. Mayor Appezzato took his seat on the dais; and requested Judge McDonald administer Oaths of Office to Councilmembers-elect. The Oaths of Office were administered to Karin Lucas, Charles M. Mannix and Al DeWitt, and the Councilmembers took their positions on the dais. Newly elected officials thanked their families, community, former elected officials, and others, for support and services. 94-758 Consideration of amointment of Vice Mayor. Councilmember DeWitt stated he wished to nominate the Councilmember who received the highest number of votes in the November election, which would be Charles Mannix, for position of Vice Mayor. Councilmember Lucas seconded the nomination. The appointment of Charles Mannix as Vice Mayor was approved. The Honorable George McDonald administered the Oath of Office of Vice Mayor to Charles Mannix. 94-759 Roll Call - New City Council Present: None: Councilmembers Arnerich, DeWitt, Lucas, Mannix, and President Appezzato - 5. None. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 fi , PROCLAMATIONS AND SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY 94-760 Presentation of Certificate of Service to Paul Breitkopf, former Member of the Historical Advisory Board. Mayor Appezzato presented the Certificate of Service to Mr. Breitkopf. 94-761 Resolution No. 12599 "Commending E. William Withrow, Jr., for his service to the City of Alameda as Mayor and Councilmember." Adopted. [See Paragraph 94-762 for Council action.] Mayor Appezzato presented the Resolution to former Mayor Withrow. 94-762 Resolution No. 12600 "Commending Richard A. Roth for his service to the City of Alameda as Vice Mayor and Councilmember." Adopted. Mayor Appezzato presented the Resolution to former Vice Mayor Roth. Vice Mayor Mannix moved adoption of the [two] resolutions. Councilmember DeWitt seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Appezzato announced items were to be pulled from the Consent Calendar. The City Clerk noted the items were reports (94-771) concerning Grant Award, and (94-772) Investment Report; and resolution (94-773) regarding part-time employees. Councilman Arnerich moved acceptance of the remainder of the Consent Calendar. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk. *94-763 Report from Assistant City Manager on status of T.C.I.'s FCC 1200 Form Rate Calculations for the period of July 14, 1994 and forward. Accepted. *94-764 Report from Public Works Director recommending acceptance of work by A.A.S., Inc. for Landscaping Improvements of Parking Lots "A", "C", and Parking Lot "A" Courtyard, No. P.W. 1-91-1. Accepted. *94-765 Report from Public Works Director recommending a reduction of Greystone Homes bond from $1,437,000 to $1,000,000 for Regular Meeting, Alamcda City Council December 20, 1995 5 Tract 6147 (Harbor Bay Isle Village V, Neighborhood C). (Greystone Homes) Accepted. *94-766 Report from the Community Development Director regarding Annual Report of the Community Improvement Commission to the City Council and the State Controller. Accepted. *94-767 Report from the Community Development Director regarding Annual Review of Affordable Housing Ordinance. Accepted. *94-768 Resolution No. 12601 "Approving Application for Grant Funds for the Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program under Section 164.56 of the Streets and Highways Code for the Tilden Way Enhanced Landscaping Project." Adopted. *94-769 Resolution No. 12602. "Approving Application for Grant Funds for the Environmental Enhancement and Mitigation Program under Section 164.56 of the Streets and Highways Code for the Alameda Park Street Bridge Scenic Overlook Project." Adopted. *94-770 Bills, certified by the City Manager to be true and correct were ratified in the sum of $1,269,701.89. 94-771 Report from Public Works Director concerning acceptance of Waste Prevention Grant Award, and authorizing the Public Works Director to Execute Grant Agreement. Don Bergen, Alameda, stated he does not believe taxpayers' money should be used to pay for signs on grocery store walls to inform people of recyclable products and packaging as proposed, as the majority of citizens recycle and the money could be used to reopen City Hall on Fridays. Councilman Arnerich stated this report refers to funding from Alameda County Waste Management Board to reduce waste and cannot be used for any General Fund purpose. The City Manager explained waste stream reduction as mandated by the State. Councilmember DeWitt moved acceptance [of the report and recommendation]. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 94-772 Report from Finance Director transmitting Investment Report for period ending November 30, 1994. Councilman Arnerich stated he removed this item from the Consent Calendar for a brief summary by the Finance Director regarding the City's investments. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 ; 6 The Finance Director reviewed the Investment Portfolio noting the criteria used; type of investments, and mitigation of risks. Councilmember Lucas moved the recommendation to accept the report. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 94-773 Resolution No. 12603 "Adopting the Public Agency Retirement System (PARS) for Part-Time Employees." (Continued from Regular Council Meeting of December 6, 1994) Adopted. Mayor Appezzato stated he requested the item be pulled from the Consent Calendar so he might be given assurance that the part-time employees who had voiced concern were protected. The City Manager stated he understands employees are satisfied. Councilman Arnerich moved adoption of the resolution. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Appezzato announced he would like to take the report concerning the United Pilipinos of Alameda out of order. 94-774 Report from Community Development Director regarding appropriating additional funds for United Pilipinos of Alameda grant closeout activities and approving an Amended Loan Agreement to allow continued use of the Concordia Property for Youth Tutoring and Mentoring Program and Administrative Office. (Continued from December 6, 1994 Council Meeting) Lois Workman, Alameda, stated she is President, Social Service Human Relations Board; Chair, Homeless Task Force, but the groups have not met for input; noted concerns regarding UPA's request to change its Program; stated, if the property goes to UPA, she would like Council to consider providing other housing, or another site for the youth program; and if the property is sold, appreciation funds should be shared by City and UPA. Don Roberts, Alameda, concurred with Ms. Workman's remarks; and urged Council support $4,000 recommended by staff for closeout activities for UPA, but defer action regarding the program until the issue has been sent to the SSHRB for input. Janet Galera, Alameda, Acting President, UPA, thanked staff for money, noted UPA has provided funds and many programs, and now requests use of the property without changing the loan agreement. Mrs. Galera noted, in response to Councilmember Lucas, how many Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 children would be involved in the program; and that the program has been delayed since November. Replying to Councilmember DeWitt, Mrs. Galera stated the program is designed to begin as a volunteer project. Responding to Mayor Appezzato, Mrs. Galera stated the Concordia property is suitable for the purpose because its many rooms will provide for classes. Ping Mejia, Alameda, United Pilipinos of Alameda, stated plans for the program have been drafted, input has been solicited from the community, the principal of Chipman School has been contacted, and the program is ready to begin. Jay De Los Reyes, Alameda, Vice President, UPA, stated, over the past several months, he chaired a committee which met with the City to discuss the closeout of the shelter program; and all the issues have been resolved except the imposition of a new condition to the loan agreement; the UPA has subsidized its programs, and their volunteer efforts should be considered. Mr. De Los Reyes, answered Councilmember Lucas's query concerning changeover to the new program, and she commented that the UPA volunteers contributed to the value of the building by painting and doing construction work without charge. In answer to Vice Mayor Mannix, Mr. de los Reyes stated UPA has not thought about selling the property prior to repaying the loan; and UPA plans to be self-sufficient in running its program. Responding to Mayor Appezzato, Mr. de los Reyes, stated UPA has approximately $30,000 in seed funding; and does not plan nor intend to look to Council for additional CDBG funding. Ginny Krutilek, Alameda Homeless Network, referred to a communication she had sent directly to Council; stated she feels strongly about the loss of the use of the property for housing purposes; the proposed program for [mentoring] children is commendable; there are children of homeless families that need to be tutored and mentored, and that would help break the cycle of homelessness to a great extent. Dom Dicolen, Alameda, UPA Member, stated UPA is trying to cure graffiti crime and vandalism before it starts; is a private organization; only 17% of homeless served were Alamedans but 100% of youth program would be Alamedans; noted fund-raising done by UPA to subsidize programs; and discussed proposed Loan Agreement amendment concerning shared appreciation. Mr. de los Reyes stated, conceptually, the UPA is not opposed to Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 8 shared appreciation, however, it is unfair to make shared appreciation retroactive. Don Roberts, Alameda, noted staff report states, if the City finds UPA in default of Agreement, if UPA changes the use from homeless purposes, and/or fail to provide for homeless services for which the property was intended, the City may declare the notes immediately due and payable, and/or take further action; the proposed provisions are not retroactive but are part of the original loan agreement. Don Bergen, Alameda, stated organizations must try to find ways to support themselves. The City Manager explained the loan agreement; stated staff is recommending a new agreement be made, allowing the mentoring program and amending the agreement to allow UPA to continue in the same terms and conditions except for one item, the shared appreciation; Council may delete shared appreciation, or decide to refer this matter back to the SSHRB as requested by the Chair of the Board, or find UPA in default and direct staff to take remedies; UPA has run a good shelter, and he believes their intentions in this regard are good. Mayor Appezzato inquired what the amount of accrued interest is, and the City Manager replied he would obtain that figure. Mayor Appezzato declared the public portion of the matter closed. Responding to Councilmember DeWitt, the City Manager replied one of staff's considerations was, if appreciation is gained, it could be gained for both UPA and the City, and does not appear to be a financial burden to UPA; the City would use that funding for various programs, i.e., the homeless shelter; and appreciation would only be realized if a sale of the property occurred and was no longer used for the benefit of the community. Responding to Councilmember Lucas, the City Manager stated the UPA is technically in default; and staff felt this agreement was fair for the City and UPA. Councilman Arnerich stated certain information has come to light this evening; he was ready to vote; however, perhaps City Manager's suggestion to send the matter back to SSHRB would be appropriate at this time; and during the interim period, the matter could be further studied. Mayor Appezzato stated we have a motion. Councilmember Lucas commented she would not support that motion; under government regulations, it is Council's judgment to treat Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20. 1995 4 I 9 mentoring service as acceptable; the organization has served the community since 1981 and done an excellent job; they own the building because they worked so hard for it; and the State has released restrictions but the City has not. Vice Mayor Mannix stated he is a strong supporter of UPA's contribution to the City; the original agreement was that UPA provide a homeless shelter; he personally would like that continued, but should not dictate what UPA should do; he is committed to sound business practices and shared appreciation has arisen due to UPA changing directions; renegotiating something that, in his mind, should have been considered with the original loan agreement is proper; therefore he must support the Amendment to Agreement; and while he supports the Amended Loan Agreement, he would remind UPA that they have the option to pay off the original loan and bypass the shared appreciation process. Vice Mayor Mannix moved the recommendation. [Substitution Motion] Councilmember DeWitt seconded the substitute motion. Mayor Appezzato stated he appreciates services of UPA; believes there should be shared appreciation at this time, however, believes City has been remiss in bypassing the SSHRB and he would support sending matter back for their recommendation; he will not support the staff recommendation, and at this time will support original motion. Mayor Appezzato called for a vote on the substitute motion to approve the staff recommendation. Mayor Appezzato stated in this case he would like a roll call vote on the substitute motion, with the President voting last. For clarification purposes, Mayor Appezzato stated Vice Mayor Mannix moved the entire recommendation which was seconded by Councilmember Lucas. The roll call vote on the substitute motion was as follows: Councilman Arnerich: Naye; DeWitt: Aye; Lucas: Aye; Mannix: Aye, and President Appezzato - Naye. Ayes - 3. Nayes - 2. Motion carried. Councilmember Lucas stated she voted aye because she wanted the matter resolved without delay. 94-775 Report from Community Development Director regarding strategies to solve parking problems on an interim basis in the Park Street Business District and the Alameda Theatre; and Written Communication from Richard King, President, Park Street Business Association, expressing the Board of Directors' support Regular Meeting. Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 for, and willingness to help facilitate, the Alameda Theatre Project. Richard King, President, Park Street Business Association, stated parking continues to be a problem; believes turning the Linoaks Motel property into a parking lot is a good idea; and the Theatre will be a boon to Alameda. William McCall, Sr., former Mayor, stated the sales tax revenue is generated not from Park or Webster Streets, but automobile row, South Shore and Harbor Bay Isle; he wishes a portion of the Finance Director's report would be published in the newspapers so the people would know where the revenue comes from; rejuvenated Park and Webster Streets are also necessary. Gerhard Degemann, Alameda, raised the question of a parking assessment district, and the City Manager stated an assessment district is not being considered at this time. Helen Sause, Alameda, Chair, Economic Development Commission, stated that the theatre will act as a catalyst to bring Park Street back; City needs to go forward with the most expedient solution to the parking needs; urged Council authorize interim parking solution and not rush to determine long-term solution. City Manager addressed the benefit of adequate parking not only to the theatre but the entire area; noted considerations if a longer process occurs, including perhaps an environmental impact report that could take several months. Councilman Arnerich stated the City has the Linoaks property, the building will be demolished; the theatre is a magnet and parking is needed; and he wants to be absolutely sure that the money the Library Fund received from private donors remains in the Library Fund for building purposes. Councilman Arnerich moved to go ahead with Option 3 [interim surface parking lot at Linoaks]. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion. Vice Mayor Mannix stated this is a good project for revitalization, the City should facilitate it if possible, and time is of the essence, so he is prepared to support Option 3. Councilmember DeWitt stated he would like a stipulation that option 3 is for interim use and that the City determine long term goals and form a committee or similar group to assist. Vice Mayor Mannix agreed and stated he sees this as an interim project to facilitate parking in the area which can be reviewed in the future with ability to consider the site for a library; and Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 library funding must not be compromised in any way because of this project. Councilmember DeWitt reviewed costs. Councilman Arnerich stated hard decisions must sometimes be made; City cannot afford to wait because the theatre may not wait. The City Manager, in response to Mayor Appezzato, explained the need for the theatre to go forward quickly; noted the surface parking lot would not preclude using the property for other options in the future; and the property could be used to supply some parking for a library at either site. Mayor Appezzato stated he has a major concern that the owner of the theatre is not contributing financial resources; the report states the Planning Board may require an in-lieu parking fee of $30,000 per year; if the in-lieu parking fee is not imposed, it will skew all the numbers by $300,000; Longs Drugs parking area may be monopolized by theater patrons; and he is concerned about financing; however, the City will not proceed until all the financing is in place by the project director. In response to Councilman Arnerich's query, the City Manager stated the City tested the building and soil before the Linoaks property was purchased. Councilman Arnerich's motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. * * * * Council recessed and reconvened at 11:02 p.m. * * * * Vice Mayor Mannix moved to extend the meeting past 11:00 p.m. Councilmember Lucas seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. * * * * 94-776 Councilman Arnerich requested City Attorney advise Council, off-agenda, how Council Meeting can legally be permitted to continue beyond 11:00 p.m. without the need for a motion. 94-777 Report from Public Works Director regarding alternative sites for interim Council Chamber and Meeting Rooms. Councilmember DeWitt moved the staff recommendation; stated he has looked at the Veterans Memorial Building and believes it is an outstanding facility with a great potential. Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion. Councilmember Lucas stated staff recommendation number (3) would require an investment of $5,000 in a facility that belongs to a private club, and inquired if any legal problems might occur. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 The City Attorney stated private clubs may remain private and select membership from people they desire; if the City gives money to the Elks Lodge or leases a portion of the Lodge, a citizen could claim the State Constitution's 14th Amendment is implicated by that action and may take the position the Elks Lodge would need to open their membership. Councilmember Lucas submitted an amendment to the motion, to eliminate item number (3) of the staff's recommendation. Vice Mayor Mannix questioned why the Elks meeting room is needed when other locations have been provided, e.g., Veteran's Building, Bureau of Electricity. The City Manager explained the number of rooms needed for boards, commissions and other groups, and the possible conflicts with needs of building owners. Councilmember Lucas stated she agreed with Vice Mayor Mannix and inquired how long it would take to make the Veteran's Building accessible. The Public Works Director stated it would take between 2 and 4 months. James Kennedy, Exalted Ruler, Elks Lodge, stated he understood that if the City decided it was interested in using the Lodge for some purpose, the Lodge would give it consideration. The Public Works Director stated the recommendation is only to enter into discussions to use the facility for certain needs. Councilmember DeWitt stated he would accept the amendment to the motion. Mayor Appezzato clarified the motion eliminates item number (3) of the recommendation. Both Mayor Appezzato and Councilman Arnerich stated their preferences for relocation sites. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 94-778 Report from Public Works Director regarding conditions of lease between Alameda Unified School District and the City of Alameda pertaining to the East Wing of Historic Alameda High School and Recommendation for the Appropriation of Funds; and Written Communications (two) from Gerhard Degemann, President, Historic Alameda High School Foundation, Inc., concerning seismic rehabilitation of the Historic Alameda High School. Regular Meetmg, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 William McCall, Sr., former Mayor of Alameda, stated he favors anything that will help rehabilitate the Historic Alameda High School; and stated he would like to know what the lease agreement includes. At the request of Mayor Appezzato, the City Manager stated City is working on a lease with the District to use the east wing, 3 floors for 3 years for nominal rent, in exchange for City improvements, at a cost of $575,000, including an elevator which meets ADA requirements; if east wing is needed by City for over 3 yrs, District would like rent, and is looking at $190,000 - 210,000 per year; District would pay cost above the $575,000 to rehab interior, and the roof or exterior deficiencies; noted one concern is the former auto shop which would would be costly to clean up; if Council agrees to proceed, City will work with architects and come back with costs, and District will be able to state if they are willing to proceed with the costs beyond the $575,000 cap. Councilman Arnerich noted the Historic Alameda High School Foundation is an active participant; and the City Manager stated that the Foundation has an Agreement with the District which needs to be worked out. Richard King, Park Street Business Association, stated City Hall should remain in the City area [Historic Alameda High School] and businesses in the retail space. Councilman Arnerich stated a number of storefronts on Park Street are boarded up; theatre will revitalize area; and merchants should spruce up their own buildings to attract people to Park Street. Gerhard Degemann, urged Council not to go ahead with plans until agreement between Foundation and District is executed. In response to Councilmember Lucas, the City Manager stated the Office of the State Architect has given until May 1st to have a contract under way for City Hall building and City may be able to obtain an extension. Dennis Chaconas, Superintendent, Alameda Unified School District, [AUSD] stated he works for the Board of Education and negotiations must be approved by the Board; he believes this is a win-win situation for the community, and will be his recommendation. Councilmember DeWitt moved the recommendation [to request AUSD confer with Office of State Architect; appropriate funds for procurement of architectural services not to exceed $85,000; and direct City Manager to continue negotiations with AUSD regarding leasing of East Wing, 2200 Central Avenue]; Vice Mayor Mannix seconded the motion. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 ,-, 4, , The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. 94-779 Report from Public Works Director regarding execution of lease between Bernita Leskowski and the City of Alameda pertaining to 1701 Webster Street, Alameda, California. Diane Coler-Dark, Alameda, stated she does not think it is necessary to make a decision on the building tonight, and believes staff and the City can do better than that location. Councilmember Lucas agreed and stated she has concerns about spending $36,000 per year, and construction and architect fees funds when the State will be taking another $375,000 from the City and the major expenditure of rehabiliation is coming up; the only reason to go ahead is if there were real benefit to Webster St, and that is questionable. Vice Mayor Mannix stated Council is talking about approximately 25,000 and 28,000 square foot buildings at the Historic Alameda High School and the Veterans Building and he cannot justify spending money for more square footage for City Hall at this point; an annex is a nice idea, should be looked at in the future but not at this time. Councilmember DeWitt agreed, however, stated he is hopeful that negotiations are not set and perhaps the rental fee can be reduced; perhaps a rate of 50 cents per square foot could be negotiated; he favors [the building] but it is too expensive right now, unless the City Manager can bring down the cost. Mayor Appezzato stated nothing will be rented at this point in time, so the report can be accepted. The City Manager noted the funding for 1701 Webster Street building is Community Development Block Grant Funds; perhaps 50 cents is more appropriate and staff can discuss that with the property owner and can come back at a later date; staff has looked at other buildings but those buildings are not available now. Councilman Arnerich agreed with Councilmember DeWitt that the price could be negotiated to 50 cents and perhaps less. Councilman Arnerich stated report can be accepted, no action is required and City Manager be directed to further negotiate for the best possible price, and report back to Council. Councilman Arnerich moved acceptance of recommendation and that condition [noted above]. Councilmember DeWitt seconded the motion which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 94-780 Resolution authorizing execution of two Leases between DiMaggio Investment Company and the City of Alameda Pertaining to 1343 Park Street and 1345 Park Street, Alameda, California. James Kennedy, Alameda, stated he was present on behalf of Lance Pederson, the owner of 2524 Santa Clara Avenue, present location of Lyn's Flower Shop; for the same reasons given for the building on Webster Street, the Park Street location should not be accepted; the location is a prime retail location and should not be used for office space; the building his client offers would be far less expensive, is located on Santa Clara where several offices are already located, buildings are similar in size and usability; Mr. Pederson's building makes better economic sense than the Park Street Building, and request Council delay approval of this resolution so that his building can be looked at and the cost to renovate be considered. Councilmember DeWitt inquired if, with the Veteran's Building and the Historic Alameda High School, and perhaps Webster Street site, Council is under pressure to obtain the 1343-1345 Park Street Building. The City Manager stated the Veteran's Building may require improvements not yet determined; the Recreation Manager is familiar with the building and her preference is that it be used for meeting rooms, not offices; and that 1343 Park Street, or equivalent, be used for a Recreation Department office, as it better provides for their needs. Councilman Arnerich inquired about 2524 Santa Clara Avenue, mentioned by Mr. Kennedy, and the City Manager replied the building is in better shape, is a newer building, will require some improvements, i.e., partitions, some parking in the rear for the building, but not access to a parking lot for the general public, and an analysis can be provided; stated many months can be spent looking at more buildings, but the objective City must meet is not only ADA requirements, but moving staff out of City Hall and provide alternative space by May; as staff continues to review additional buildings, compliance with ADA and seismic ordinance becomes more difficult. Responding to Councilman Arnerich's question, the Public Works Director stated a comparison of Lyn's and TJs would take approximately a month, and noted Council had directed staff to move forward on Park Street, and plans and specifications are being prepared. Councilmember Lucas inquired why the lease would be needed if the City goes forward with the east wing of Historic Alameda High School. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 The City Manager stated the auto shop in the east wing may cost more to upgrade than it is worth, perhaps that could be used for what is currently in off-site storage and save that rental, and use another site, i.e., a Park Street and/or Webster Street site; and might be cheaper in the long run. Councilmember Lucas commented on cost of rent, parking and improvements and stated she does not want to make that commitment until Council has an indication on what will happen with the east wing lease. Mayor Appezzato concurred, commenting that the property on Park Street is large enough for an anchor tenant, and if the City rents it, that will limit a great deal of sales tax revenue. The City Manager stated perhaps staff could get better costs on the High School renovation, particularly the large room and at the same time, look at 2524 Santa Clara Avenue, and report back in a month. Councilman Arnerich stated he does not mind going in that direction; 27 or 28 sites have been looked at, and a decision must be made soon. Councilmember Lucas moved the issue be brought back in a month. Councilmember DeWitt stated perhaps rents can be renegotiated. Councilman Arnerich seconded the motion. Vice Mayor Mannix stated he would go along with postponement for a month; however, he believes the East Wing and Veteran's Memorial Building is available. Councilman Arnerich requested copy of the preliminary plans on the east wing for Council. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (Public Comment) 94-781 Jon Rodgers, Alameda, quoted a columnist who stated that government is often incompetent at basics and offensive regarding matters that are none of its business; and requested Council, that whatever they do during their terms, feel free to vote your conscience, and live by your conviction; and believes the [comment by the columnist] is a good premise to live by. 94-782 Neil Patrick Sweeney, Alameda, reiterated his concern to have UCSF facilities on the Naval Air Station, and noted that California State University, Monterey, will open at Fort Ord next fall. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 94-783 Richard Neveln, Alameda, former base worker, stated he has been surprised NAS vacant buildings have not come up concerning location needs; and noted Building 530 is a large vacant structure; and Officers' Club could be used for meeting rooms. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (Communications from Council) 94-784 Consideration of Mayor's nomination for appointment to the Economic Development Commission. Mayor Appezzato nominated Diane Coler-Dark for appointment. 94-785 Selection of a Representative from the City Council to participate on the League of California Cities, City Legislative Delegate program. Mayor Appezzato stated he plans to attend and invited any Councilmember interested in the program. Councilman Arnerich stated he would attend. 94-786 Mayor Appezzato stated Monica Au has withdrawn her application for the Planning Board; and he requested the City Clerk advertise the vacant position. 94-787 Mayor Appezzato requested staff prepare a public commendation for a sailor, Warren Thomas Pribula, U.S.S. Carl Vinson, and his commanding officer, to the Council Chambers and publicly acknowledge his contribution to fighting crime in our City. 94-788 Councilmember Lucas requested a petition she received, concerning the rear building at 1574 Pacific Avenue, be placed on agenda. 94-789 Councilman Arnerich requested that a brief narrative by the City Manager's Office be provided to Council on the status of the houseboat that still lingers in San Leandro Bay, and if nothing is forthcoming he will request that be agendized for the second meeting in January for appropriate action; also a brief narrative on the status of the College of Alameda Baseball Field. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995 ADJOURNMENT President Appezzato adjourned the meeting at 12:50 a.m. Respectfully submitted, latef, DIANE B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted 72 hours in advance. Regular Meeting, Alameda City Council December 20, 1995