Loading...
1988-08-16 Minutes235 SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA AUGUST 16, 1988 The meeting convened at 7:05 p.m. with President Corica presiding. ROLL CALL Present: Councilmembers Camicia, Monsef, Thomas, and President Corica - 4. Absent: None. President Corica adjourned the meeting to a Closed Session to consider the appointment of a City Manager. At 7:09 p.m., the Special Meeting was reconvened. President Corica publicly announced that the proposed City Manager's agreement was accepted by Council by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88 -527 Resolution No. 11538 "Appointing William C. Norton City Manager of the City of Alameda." Adopted. Councilmember Monsef made a motion to adopt the resolution. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. ADJOURNMENT President Corica adjourned the Special Meeting to 10:30 p.m, August 16, 1988, Council Chamber, Second Floor, or immediately following adjournment of Regular Council Meeting thereafter. Respectfully submitted, DI 'E B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for the meeting was posted in accordance with the Brown Act. August 16, 1988 236 REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA HELD TUESDAY AUGUST 16, 1988 The meeting convened at 7:30 p.m. (at the conclusion of a Special Council Meeting, and the Community Improvement Commission meeting) with President Corica presiding. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Camicia. Reverend Wilfred Hodgkin gave the invocation. ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Camicia, Monsef, Thomas, and President Corica - 4. Absent: None. MINUTES Councilmember Monsef made a motion to approve the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of August 2, 1988; Special Council Meetings of August 1, August 5, and August 11, 1988; Adjourned Special Council Meetings of August 8, and August 9, 1988. Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Camicia made a motion to approve the Consent Calendar. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS *88-528 From Finance Director on City's Investment Portfolio as of July 31, 1988. Approved. *88-529 From Community Development Director regarding Fair Housing and Housing Information and Referral Services for Fiscal Year 1988-89. Approved. RESOLUTIONS *88-530 Resolution No. 11539 "Authorizing execution of a Grant Agreement with the Alameda Main Street Project, Inc. for Commercial Revitalization Services for Fiscal Year 1988-89." Adopted. *88-531 Resolution No. 11540 "Endorsing Alameda's status as a self-initiated California Main Street City." Adopted. *88-532 Resolution No. 11541 "Awarding contract to Industrial Roofing Company for roof repairs at the Mastick Senior Center, No. P.W. 3-88-7, and authorizing execution thereof." Adopted. *88-533 Resolution No. 11542 "Adopting Plans and Specifications and calling for bids for street improvements, Marina Village Assessment District 84-3, Atlantic Avenue extension to Alameda Belt Line and August 16, 1938 Triumph Drive , No. P.W. 6-88-11, and directing City Clerk to advertise same." Adopted. FINAL PASSAGE OF ORDINANCES *88-534 Ordinance No. 2398 "Reclassifying and rezoning certain property within the City of Alameda by amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1277, N.S.; Applicant: Edward and Celestine Brennan; R-88-3; that property located at 1510 Everett Street." Adopted. *88-535 Ordinance No. 2399, N.S. "Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by amending Article 2, Chapter 3 of Title VI, Sewer Service Charge Ordinance of the City of Alameda." Adopted. *88-536 Ordinance No. 2400, N.S. "Amending Title XVII of the Alameda Municipal Code to establish a two-way stop installation on Everett Street at Blanding Avenue." Adopted. BILLS *88-537 A List of Claims, certified by the Interim City Manager to be correct, was approved in the amount of $4,467,286.19. ****************** RETURN TO REGULAR AGENDA WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS 88-538 From Richard J. Hansen, 445 East 14th Street, San Leandro, CA 94577, requesting Council to retain the staff position of permit facilitator and Mr. Cary Cheifer in that position. Lolan R. Ellis, 2115 Encinal Avenue, expressed concern regarding the elimination of the staff position of permit facilitator, noting his [Mr. Ellis'] variance was expedited only after Mr. Cheifer assisted in the matter, and requested Mr. Cheifer be reinstated. Mr. Hansen spoke in favor of the position of permit facilitator and requested Mr. Cheifer be rehired, noting that Mr. Cheifer's work eliminated much costly time for both the City and Permit Applicants. Shirley C. Cummins, 549 Santa Clara Avenue, stated it was a matter of whistle-blowing, and requested Council consider rehiring Cary Cheifer. Salvadore R. Munoz, 2437 Buena Vista Avenue, stated he was greatly helped by Mr. Cheifer and believes Mr. Cheifer is the best an for the job. Cary Cheifer, 3040 Alta Vista, stated he enjoyed his job at City Hall and believes he is owed an apology. Lu Burton, 2822 Van Buren, stated there were negative problems in City Hall; it took six months to get a building permit and would have taken more months, if Mr. Cheifer had not expedited matters. August 16, 1988 2 President Corica commented the staff is investigating the matter and until that is done, there is little Council can do. Councilmember Monsef made a motion to accept the written communication. Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion. Councilmember Thomas stated she believes the position is-needed, that Council authorized it because of the need, however, it is not the purview of City Council to focus on individual personnel actions; the allegations of whistle-blowing should be reviewed by Council. The motion was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-539 From Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, regarding the adequacy of the Harbor Bay Isle Environmental Impact Report. President Corica noted there is much information given by Mr. Scullin which Council will find useful to review at a future date when the matter is considered. Councilmember Camicia made a motion to accept the communication. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-540 From Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, requesting Council to consider the preparation of a new Environmental Impact Report for Harbor Bay Isle Project. John Scott Graham, 1728 Tregloan Court, stated he favors obtaining an Environmental Impact Report for the Harbor Bay Isle Project. Councilmember Camicia made a motion to accept the written communication. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. HEARINGS 88-541 Consideration of proposed Negative Declaration IS-88-7 and Rezoning R-88-2 from R-5, General Residential District, to R-5-PD General Residential Planned Development District, the property located on the southeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and Chestnut Street. Applicant: Patsy Chan. President Corica explained the procedure of the hearing. The Planning Director explained the background of the matter and the nature of the plans for the site, noting that R-5-PD is being requested and the Planning Board recommends approval of the Negative Declaration and the rezoning to R-5-PD. Councilmember Monsef discussed the width of the driveway and the size of the entire lot. The public portion of the hearing was opened. August 16, 1988 2 On the call for proponents, there were none. On the call for opponents, there were none. The public portion of the hearing was closed. Councilmember Thomas discussed the setback, the space between buildings, the distance from the corner with regard- to visual problems, and other details, receiving informational response from Will Harrison, 883 Island Drive *222, representing the Applicant. Following discussion, Councilmember Thomas stated she has a problem with House No. 4 as a possible safety issue; and she would like to have the Risk Manager review Lot No. 4. President Corica commented the Tentative Map will be before Council and changes can be made at that time; and inquired what could be done to alleviate the concerns. The Planning Director stated it could be redesigned; the Engineering Department has reviewed the site plan layout; if Council is concerned the design is not suitable, the matter would need to go back through the Planning Board for a PD amendment; and added there could be some minor changes made. President Corica stated he does not want them to be required to go back through the whole process again. The Public Works Director suggested if Council wished to approve [the Negative Declaration and the rezoning] subject to review and approval of the Traffic Engineer and the Risk Manager, there could be distance-checking on building 4 for safety at the intersection, and if there is not sufficient distance, there could be a change prior to the drawing of the Tentative Map. Councilmember Camicia moved approval with the two stipulations added [(1) approval of the Traffic Engineer and (2) approval of the Risk Manager] and requested the related ordinance be taken out of order. Councilmember Thomas requested there also be a statement from the Fire Department on lane width. Councilmember Camicia agreed. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-542 Ordinance No. , N.S. "Reclassifying and rezoning of a certain property within the City of Alameda by amending Zoning Ordinance No. 1277, New Series; Applicant: Patsy Chan, R-88-2, the property located on the southeast corner of Lincoln Avenue and Chestnut Street." Introduced. Councilmember Camicia made a motion to introduce the ordinance with the three stipulations noted above. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. REPORTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 88-543 From Chairman, Strategic Planning Committee, recommending August 16, 1988 240 continuing with Phases II and III of the Strategic Planning Process. Bill Withrow, 133 Cumberland Way, Chairman, Strategic Planning Committee, reviewed Phase I and Committee activity which included an extensive interview process with Alameda citizens; stated the group is balanced demographically; Phase I dealt with broad issues; specific objectives and strategies will be defined, and the implementation of responsibilities will be specified, in Phases II and III; believes there will be a very positive impact on the community; and it is the strong recommendation of the Committee that Council authorize the necessary funding to continue, complete and implement the Strategic Plan. Susan Ahlquist Dutcher, 2975 Gibbons Drive, stated strategic planning provides the ability to focus on items of importance to the City, allowing citizens the opportunity to work together for what is best for Alameda as a whole, seeking long term versus short term value. Susan Freeman, 1719 Clinton Avenue, stated citizens can make a contribution to the future of the City and requested support for the next two phases of the Process. Douglas W. Taylor, 1001 Grand Street, Chairman of the Transportation and Traffic Subcommittee, stated he favors strategic planning as it is a way to identify key elements on which the City should focus, and recommended Council authorize Phases II and III. Kevin Harper, 112 Norwich Road, stated he, as a Certified Public Accountant who audits governments in the Bay Area, has observed an increased number of strategic plans and other planning devices in local governments; is Chairman of the Housing Subcommittee, and believes Alameda needs a Strategic Plan. Christopher Hanson, 543 Palace Court, Chairman of the Downtown's Retail Subcommittee, stated the Subcommittee's goal as strategic planners is a viable retail market throughout Alameda; they will investigate possible consolidation of present efforts to rejuvenate the City's business base in order to more quickly reach that goal; and Council's support will allow them that opportunity. Robert DeCelle, 276 Beach Road, stated he strongly believes strategic planning should continue; the present Committee composed of people from all parts of Alameda contributes greatly to proper growth of the City; recommends Council proceed with Phases II and III, but if so, recommends also that the resolution (See 88-548) regarding the agreement for planning services for the General Plan, be held until the Strategic Plan Committee work is complete so that the Strategic Plan results can be included in the work of the General Plan. Sam Huie, 2200 Central Avenue, Chairman of the Educational Subcommittee, spoke in support of the overall planning process, the benefits are enormous, and there is opportunity to work with all segments of the community to map out the future of Alameda. Councilmember Thomas inquired if the School Board would be willing to fund part of the process and perhaps integrate the One-High-School August 16, 1988 241 Committee in the process. Mr. Huie stated he has already pledged the School Board support and the Superintendent has been instructed to provide whatever resources are necessary; regarding finances, he can only pledge his own vote on that but the Board could vote on it. Fred Scullin, 1120 Chestnut Street, commented regarding _appointment of William Norton as City Manager. The following discussion ensued regarding the appointment of William C. Norton as City Manager: 88-544 President Corica announced that William C. Norton was appointed City Manager by unanimous vote of the Council in the Special Council Meeting held prior to the regular meeting; Mr. Norton will begin his duties as City Manager tomorrow, August 17; there was a unanimous vote for his appointment; not only Mr. Norton's expertise was impressive but his responsiveness to the citizens of the City; commented that Robert Wonder has done an excellent job as Interim City Manager and expressed appreciation to Mr. Wonder; and stated that the special meeting was adjourned to reconvene later this evening following the regular meeting to consider appointment of a Councilmember to fill the present vacancy. RETURN TO 88-543. Mr. Scullin continued his remarks, stating he questions whether the Committee is a representative cross-section of Alameda. Elizabeth Rogers, 1261 Weber Street, stated she believes there is a balance on the Committee; Council should trust people they appointed; Council should support a process that is pro-active instead of re-active; and encouraged long term planning. Councilmember Camicia thanked those who have worked in the process; stated there is much more to be done; it is an opportunity for the entire community from all different backgrounds to work on problems; it is important that the work continue; and moved the recommendation that Council [authorize the Strategic Planning process] continue. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion. President Corica noted Mr. DeCelle's request that the resolution regarding the agreement for the General Plan be held, and inquired how much time the Strategic Plan will take; does not feel comfortable holding up the update of the General Plan. Mr. Withrow stated the Arthur Young firm has recommended an estimated time frame of six months; and he is convinced the Executive Board of the Strategic Committee could do what is necessary to compress that time frame. Councilmember Thomas stated she believes the Strategic Plan is a good idea but there is more need for a funded capital equipment replacement program; the General Plan needs to be updated; she cannot vote for the Strategic Plan until the City has some things August 16, 1988 242 that are needed for public safety; the budget was balanced but only $7,000 is remaining. President Corica stated he understood her concern for priorities; but believes that rather than moving on the subject tonight and have it not pass, Council should request the Committee report back with the possibility of financial help; and his suggestion is to table this until the next Council meeting so that the City can_proceed at a lesser cost. Councilmember Monsef stated this issue is too important to view lightly; is important for Alameda; there was no planning years ago for today's Alameda, and every day such a project is delayed, it is a mistake; Council cannot be shortsighted but must search for a better Alameda over the years, should not be frightened of $45,000, should not table this but give support to the people who have shown so much interest; perhaps accept the recommendation, subject to a report from the City Manager, who, after working with the strategic planning group, for the next meeting or the following one, may be able to prepare a detailed method of financing for this project, so the work can be completed and the City can move ahead. Councilmember Camicia stated he believes money is available; the General Plan requires $228,000, the community is almost built out and it is a subject of debate as to whether or not the update is required by law, and some money designated for that could be appropriated; perhaps Blayney-Dyett could be offered $100,000 to begin the process and the remaining $50,000 could be taken and put into the Strategic Planning process, the General Plan could then be finished after the Strategic Planning process which may have an impact on the General Plan and perhaps money could be saved in the long run. President Corica suggested the report be accepted and financing vehicles then be looked into. Councilmember Thomas stated she cannot vote to accept the report because the General Plan is not fully funded; and believes there should be a full Council to consider the matter. Councilmember Camicia proposed the matter be tabled tonight if Council will also table the resolution authorizing the agreement regarding the General Plan revision and find out if some money can be worked out from that. President Corica stated he believes that is fair because Council might want a little more information on the General Plan agreement; suggested Council accept the report and hold off on the General Plan agreement until the School District and other entities are involved and funding of the strategic plan process has been further explored. Councilmember Camicia stated Council should also find out if money can be utilized from the $228,000 figure for the General Plan, Councilmember Camicia withdrew his motion and moved as noted in the two previous paragraphs. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion. August 16, 1988 243 President Corica agreed and clarified the motion to be acceptance of the report and that the Strategic Plan Committee will attempt to provide funding, and the City Manager will also investigate funding. Councilmember Camicia added that the resolution authorizing execution of agreement with Blayney-Dyett should be held over. The motion was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-545 From Interim City Manager on the Island City Gun Club Proposal. Gordon Christopherson, 2807 Marina Drive, discussed policy and procedure regarding City leases, and added that the rewriting of some leases should be considered. President Corica commented Council is reviewing leases and plan to restructure lease agreements; and further, regarding the Gun Club lease, staff is still reviewing the matter, and suggested accepting the report and allowing staff an opportunity to review further. Councilmember Thomas stated a Council policy should be developed regarding lease of property; and the report is a good one. Councilmember Monsef moved acceptance of the report and recommendation. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-546 From Planning Director on the Planning Department's application filing fees and processing charges. Councilmember Thomas commented she requested this report as a result of a citizen's complaint. The Planning Director commented on the signs and notices reflecting fees and suggested perhaps a statement could be placed on the application directly above the applicant signature line. Councilmember Thomas suggested a two-month billing cycle, to which the Planning Director noted it has not been done because of the additional time and expense, and perhaps a deposit would be preferable. Councilmember Thomas stated it is worth looking into. Councilmember Camicia made a motion to accept the report. Councilmember Monsef seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. 88-547 From Public Works Director on Bay Area Rapid Transit Five-Year Plan and potential BART Services for Alameda. Councilmember Monsef stated it is a good report and moved to accept the report and recommendation. Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion and commented he discussed August 16, 1988 244 with East Bay Regional Parks District, the possibility of using the Crown Beach Parking Lot on weekdays; and suggested the Mayor write a letter to the Board of Directors, EBRPD, and let them know Council is interested in a Park-n-Ride lot and Crown Beach Parking Lot would be a suitable location and of sufficient size, and would be available on weekdays. President Corica stated he would be glad to write a letter to the District and further commented the Traffic Advisory Committee has been meeting and has been considering locations. Councilmember Thomas suggested consideration of the dump site. President Corica noted measures would need to be taken to ensure the seal of the dump would not be broken. The motion was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. RESOLUTIONS 88-548 Resolution No. "Authorizing execution of an agreement with Blayney-Dyett for planning services for revision of the City of Alameda General Plan." (Continued from the July 19 and August 2 Council Meetings) Continued to September 6, 1988.) INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES 88-549 Ordinance No. , N.S. "Authorizing Grant of Easement to East Bay Municipal Utility District to contain a pipeline adjacent to the eastern line of Webster Street between Atlantic Avenue and Bethlehem Avenue." Introduced. Councilmember Thomas made a motion to introduce the ordinance. Councilmember Camicia seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. NEW BUSINESS 88-550 Councilmember Camicia requested a resolution be placed on the September 6, 1988 Council meeting agenda commending Rob Wonder for his good work performance as Interim City Manager. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, GENERAL 88-551 From Wayne Pearce, 1136 Fontana Drive, wishing to address the Council on the following issues: 1) the augmentation of neighborhood watch briefings with information on safe firearm selection, use, and storage; 2) Alameda's drug problem, and 3) Alameda's homeless. Mr. Pearce gave examples of misuse of handguns, suggestions for provision of information for safe usage, noted location of classes, and submitted pamphlets to Council; commented on inadequacy of criminal justice system in dealing with drug problems; and suggested Council check with the City of Berkeley regarding its experience with temporary provision for the homeless. August 16, 1988 245 88-552 Shirley Cummins, 549 Santa Clara Avenue, thanked Rita Haugner for the period of time she served as Councilmember; and requested Council consider rehiring Mr. Cary Cheifer. 88-553 Richard Sherratt, 1138 Ballena Blvd., Chairman, Concerned Citizens for Good Government, thanked Mr. Wonder for his outstanding job as Interim City Manager; congratulated Mr. Norton on his appointment; suggested Council establish policies and procedures for appointed officials; suggested a Council retreat be considered. ADJOURNMENT President Corica adjourned the meeting at 10:10 p.m. Res ectfully submitt.ed DIE B. FELSCH, CMC City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted 72 hours in advance in accordance with the Brown Act. August 16, 1988 246 ADJOURNED SPECIAL MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ALAMEDA AUGUST 16, 1988 Following the adjournment of the Regular Council Meeting, President Corica reconvened the Adjourned Spo' ' Meeting at 10 :10 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Councilmembers Camicia, Monsef, Thomas, and President Corica - 4. Absent: None. 88 -554 Consideration of appointment of a City Councilmember. Councilmember Camicia made a motion to nominate Anthony "Lil" Arnerich for the position of Councilmember. Councilmember Thomas seconded the motion and it was carried by unanimous voice vote - 4. President Corica commented that Mr. Arnerich had received many votes in the last election and worked many years for the City. Mr. Arnerich addressed Council, accepting the nomination. Councilmember Camicia thanked and commended former Councilmember Rita Haugner for her efforts as a Councilmember. The City Clerk read a letter from former Councilmember Rita Haugner expressing congratulations to Mr. Arnerich, and stating she wished only the best for Alameda. The Adjourned Special Council Meeting was adjourned at 10:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, DIANE B. FELSCH City Clerk, CMC The agenda for the meeting was posted in accordance with the Brown Act. August 16, 1988