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2007-07-17 Special CIC MinutesMINUTES OF THE SPECIAL COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT COMMISSION MEETING TUESDAY- -JULY 17, 2007- -7:25 P.M. Chair Johnson convened the Special Meeting at 7:43 p.m. Commissioner Matarrese led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL - Present: Commissioners deHaan, Gilmore, Matarrese, Tam, and Mayor Johnson – 5. Absent: None. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY (07-028) Update on the Alameda Theater, Cineplex, and Parking Structure Project. The Redevelopment Manager gave a brief presentation on the theater, a Power Point presentation illustrating restoration work, and a brief presentation on the garage. Commissioner Matarrese inquired whether trees could be planted instead of banners along the northern elevation of the parking structure. The Redevelopment Manager responded the property line is an issue; stated the property line is close to the garage; the architect does not think there would be enough room to plant trees. Commissioner Matarrese inquired whether staff talked to Long’s. The Redevelopment Manager responded easement discussions have been lengthy; stated the construction easement is a concern because trucks drive up to the storage warehouse. Commissioner Matarrese stated the City is providing a huge benefit to Long’s; that he would like to see staff push for a live solution such as bamboo or Italian Cypress; requested more detail on said option. The Redevelopment Manager stated vines may be a more feasible landscape option; other options would be reviewed. Commissioner deHaan stated that other options should be reviewed because of the cost and life expectancy of banners; the Historical Theater tenant improvements should start in early Special Meeting Community Improvement Commission July 17, 2007 1 November. The Redevelopment Management stated tenant improvements include screens, seats, audio-visual and projection equipment, concession casework, ticket booth equipment, automatic ticket machines, and signage. Commissioner deHaan stated said improvements should be completed by January; inquired whether the Cineplex schedule could be accelerated. The Redevelopment Manager responded the City does not have control over the Contract; stated work is on schedule; staff is confident that all work will be completed by March 2008. Commissioner deHaan inquired whether the Operation and Management Plan is clear. The Redevelopment Manager responded a detailed budget would be presented on August 7; stated staff feels that the budget is realistic; staff will have a better understanding of costs once proposals are received. Commissioner deHaan inquired whether staff is solidified on the fee structure. The Redevelopment Manager responded in the affirmative; stated a fifty-cent per-hour rate is recommended, which is the same as street parking. Commissioner deHaan inquired whether the contractor would be responsible for fee collection and hours of operation. The Redevelopment Manager responded the contractor would be responsible for revenue collection; stated staff recommends that the Police Department be responsible for enforcement. Commissioner deHaan stated that he hopes that the Park Street Business Association (PSBA) would provide support to keep the area clean. The Redevelopment Manager stated the parking management company should perform daily trash pick up. Christopher Buckley, Alameda, submitted handout; stated the Special Meeting Community Improvement Commission July 17, 2007 2 proposed banners should be larger to cover the three center bays; a trompe d’oil treatment or grilled panels are options. Chair Johnson inquired whether the recommended options could be done after the completion of the parking structure, to which Mr. Buckley responded in the affirmative. Richard W. Rutter, Alameda, stated evergreens are a good decoration studio; that he does not think money should be spent on banners; banners draw attention to the façade; an architectural grilled screen system might be a possibility. Robb Ratto, PSBA, stated the PSBA Board of Directors urges the Commission to take a low cost option. Chair Johnson stated the Cineplex developer should not be rushed; the City waited more than twenty-six years for the Historical Theater restoration; staff should inform the Commission if other [restoration] items need to be addressed while there is the opportunity; options need to be weighed; inquired whether damaged niches are being replaced. The Redevelopment Manager responded in the affirmative; stated the niches have been re-varnished. Chair Johnson stated that she does not want items overlooked. The Redevelopment Manager stated a list of items and cost estimates would be provided. Chair Johnson stated the project team is doing a great job. Commissioner Matarrese inquired whether staff would ensure that the viewable improvements, such as countertops and cabinetry, are the same quality and are appropriate for the restored interior, to which the Redevelopment Manager responded in the affirmative. MINUTES (07-029) Minutes of the Special Joint City Council, Alameda Reuse and Redevelopment Authority and Community Improvement Commission (CIC) meeting and the Special CIC meeting held on July 3, 2007. Approved. Special Meeting Community Improvement Commission July 17, 2007 3 Commissioner deHaan moved approval of the minutes. Commissioner Gilmore seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote – 5. AGENDA ITEMS None. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, Chair Johnson adjourned the Special Meeting at 8:23 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Lara Weisiger Secretary, Community Improvement Commission The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Brown Act. Special Meeting Community Improvement Commission July 17, 2007 4