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2023-01-17 Regular CC MinutesRegular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 1 MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING TUESDAY- - JANUARY 17, 2023- -7:00 P.M. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 7:04 p.m. Vice Mayor Daysog led the Pledge of Allegiance. ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Daysog, Herrera Spencer, Jensen, Vella, and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft – 5. [Note: Councilmember Vella arrived at 7:08 p.m. The meeting was conducted via Zoom.] Absent: None. AGENDA CHANGES (23-026) The City Clerk announced that Vice Mayor Daysog referral [paragraph no. 23-042] would not be heard and would return at a later date. PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS None. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA (23-027) Brian Kennedy, Alameda, urged the Council to remove its Sanctuary City status. (23-028) Joshua Altieri, Alameda Housing Authority (AHA), announced upcoming Housing Authority activities. (23-029) Alisa Rasera-Holden, Alameda Warming Shelter, provided an update on the Warming Shelter. (23-030) Tod Hickman discussed issues at Spirits Alley; expressed appreciation for Vice Mayor Daysog’s referral not proceeding; suggested 4 votes be required to remove the City Manager. (23-031) Therese Hall, Alameda, urged Council to support in-person meetings. CONSENT CALENDAR Expressed support for the Consent Calendar having less items; discussed the bills; expressed support for hybrid meetings: Tod Hickman. Expressed support for hybrid meetings; discussed public participation and transparency: A Strudle. Expressed support for hybrid meetings and sharing a list of Zoom participants: Carmen Reid, Alameda. Councilmember Herrera Spencer requested the Teleconference Findings [paragraph no. 23- 035] be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 2 Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the remainder of the Consent Calendar. Vice Mayor Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph number.] (*23-032) Minutes of the Continued December 6, 2022 City Council Meeting and Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on December 20, 2022. Approved. (*23-033) Ratified bills in the amount of $5,857,749.52. (*23-034) Recommendation to Accept Report on the Appointment of Open Government Commission Members. Accepted. (23-035) Recommendation to Approve Findings to Allow City Meetings to be Conducted via Teleconference. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she does not support the continued teleconference ability for City meetings; the staff report does not indicate the proposed plan to resume in - person meetings; inquired the plan, any proposed requirements for the public to attend, and the first meeting date for in-person participation; stated that she would like more information and appreciates members of the public advocating to participate in-person at City meetings; expressed support for the ability to see a participant list as well as allow camera use for Zoom participants. The City Clerk responded the City cannot require anyone to publicly disclose their name at meetings; stated speakers may address the Council anonymously even while in-person; expressed concern over delving into legal review of the matter since Council has two more meetings with remote-only participation before transitioning to hybrid; stated internal hybrid meeting tests have occurred; changes have been made to the previous plan for hybrid meetings; staff is working on providing instructions for Board and Commission meetings; since the staff report went out two days after the last Council meeting, it does not include more robust details; the staff report for the February 7th Council meeting will have more information. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether March 7th is the anticipated date for in- person participation, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the March 7th date is being required by the Governor of California; February has two Council meetings, one on the 7th and one on the 21st; inquired whether either February meeting will be in hybrid format. The City Clerk responded if staff completes all testing without issue, the earliest possible hybrid meeting date would be February 21st; stated staff would like to run more tests and ensure Council, and Boards and Commissions are confident and ready to proceed; there is a lot to prepare and the earliest staff could potentially provide hybrid meetings is February 21st, however, staff cannot commit to the date at this time. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether an update will be provided at the February Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 3 7th meeting to inform the public of expectations, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether staff anticipates reaching out to Councilmembers for input in advance. The City Clerk responded Councilmembers may provide input now or at any time; stated staff will be testing the system. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether members of the public will weigh in with preferences in advance of hybrid meetings and whether location disclosures for agenda publishing and member participation will be made public. The City Clerk responded in the affirmative; stated once the teleconference findings are no longer applicable, members participating remotely would have to disclose their location, publish the location on the agenda, and the posted location would have to be open to members of the public. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she looks forward to the forthcoming February 7th staff report. Vice Mayor Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation. Councilmember Vella seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: No; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 4. Noes: 1. (*23-036) Recommendation to Authorize Updates to the Existing Alameda Police Department Policy Manual to Conform to Best Practices and to Ratify Policies that Have Been Updated Pursuant to Legal Updates, Significant Liability Issues, and Imminent Safety. Accepted. (*23-037) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Two-Year Agreement with CMG Landscape Architecture for Design Services for De-Pave Park, Located on the Western Edge of Seaplane Lagoon at Alameda Point, with the Option to Extend the Agreement on a Year-by-Year Basis for Up to Two Additional Years, in an Amount Not to Exceed $729,967, Funded by a Grant from the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority. Accepted. CONTINUED AGENDA ITEMS None. REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS (23-038) Resolution No. 16024, “Ratifying the City Manager’s Declaration of the Existence of a Local Emergency in Response to Severe Winter Storms.” Adopted. The City Manager gave a brief presentation. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated City staff had an instrumental role in keeping the City safe while communicating information in real time; expressed support for staff’s actions. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 4 The Fire Captain stated staff did an awesome job; there are some lessons to learn and minor improvements to make; the team effort has been great. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the public can sign up for updates online. The Public Information Officer responded acalert.org allows people to sign up for alerts via text message and email; noted the weather for the next 10 days is forecast as sunny. Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed support for City staff; noted that some residents have experienced problems; stated that she has received multiple emails regarding emergency preparedness; staff has acknowledged a need to work on the City lagoons and flooding streets; residents have suggested people take responsibility for clearing drains in the future; she would like sandbags made more accessible to the public; expressed concern over people’s homes flooding. Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved adoption of the resolution. Councilmember Jensen seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5. (23-039) Resolution No. 16025, “Adopting the Equitable Building Decarbonization Plan.” Adopted. The Planning Building and Transportation Director and Sustainability and Resiliency Manager gave a Power Point presentation. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired the breakdown for City buildings’ use of gas. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded the City owns a number of buildings at Alameda Point; stated there is an assumption that almost all residential and commercial buildings owned by the City have access to gas; there are City buildings along the Tidelands which also have access to gas; he does not have the specific amount for City buildings. Vice Mayor Daysog questioned whether the cost of implementing the Decarbonization Plan by the owner of a single-family home is $48,800; stated which can go towards offsetting the roughly $48,000 cost; inquired the actual cost to the single family home owner to bear over- time. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded a team of graduate students prepared the report for the City; stated the estimate is a rough cost per household; the report is a little old, there has been some new incentives and rebates since the report was developed; the total rebate amount is not available at this time. Vice Mayor Daysog inquired whether the intention is to come up with ways to deal with the net cost over time; stated there could be a tariff on bills, user tax, or bond measure; the outstanding challenge is coming up with an approach to deal with the net cost. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 5 The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded in the affirmative; stated the challenge is how to electrify the building stock and how is the process afforded; the process would consist of raising additional funds to help people pay the costs; the costs will vary; the approach might include funding sources, incentives, or waivers; staff is considering financial need; staff does not want to disproportionately impact members of the community; staff will carefully consider each step of the process throughout the program. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager stated the Plan does not require all buildings to be fully electric; the process will be broken into manageable chunks; discussed appliance replacement; stated residents will receive help with appliance replacement and upgrades; complete funding is not being decided now. Councilmember Herrera Spencer discussed a survey; stated that she could not find outreach numbers; inquired whether information is available about the different forms of outreach. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded staff can provide the numbers; the survey was not the only group of people engaged; staff conducted targeted outreach workshops specifically for renters, landlords, and homeowners in addition to a general community survey conducted for multi-family owners; the general community survey helped staff understand the types of appliances within buildings. Councilmember Jensen expressed support for the information provided on residential and commercial units; stated that she appreciates the breakdown of greenhouse gas emission reductions that can occur; she would like to better understand the information related to commercial buildings in Alameda; the City does not have a tremendous amount of manufacturing; the City has a large number of restaurants and care facilities; it would be helpful to get an idea of which buildings are using natural gas and the burden of transition said buildings to electrification. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager stated the commercial buildings include all types listed by Councilmember Jensen; staff does not have a good breakdown of the gas usage by building type; staff can look into the possibility of obtaining the information. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director stated the question leads staff to the correct process for proceeding in the future; restaurants are not the only business type for staff to consider; staff can look at working with high natural gas users first. Councilmember Jensen stated some of the largest users are the Hospital and School District. Councilmember Vella inquired how the City will proceed with navigating some of the State and federal incentives; stated the report indicates the City will be trying to figure out how to incentivize users and not just create a mandate; inquired whether the strategy will include ways for users to maximize incentives. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded in the affirmative; stated staff needs to coordinate with Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) and local partners who are offering incentives as well as federal and State programs; a State program called The Switch Is On helps Californians switch out gas appliances for electric and will show incentives; resources to help pull everything together are necessary to consider in moving forward with the most seamless process possible. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 6 Expressed concern over the concepts of equity and affordable housing being overlooked; discussed solar power; expressed concern over solar power not working as reliably as natural gas; urged Council to vote no: Tod Hickman. Expressed concern over the Plan’s title; stated title choice is important for people to have concepts conveyed clearly; the current title informs people that buildings need to be decarbonized; expressed concern over prioritizing electrical grids and forcing people to change out appliances; stated people should be skeptical: A Strudle. Expressed support for a decarbonization plan but not as a mandatory implementation; discussed the State’s plan; expressed concern over the grid growing at an unprecedented rate over the next two decades; urged a more affordable approach be used: Karen Miller, Alameda. Urged Council to adopt the Plan; stated the Plan is essential and a good first step towards a sustainable future; expressed support for AMP delivering 100% clean power; stated the Plan is an opportunity for Alameda to reduce reliance on fossil fuels: Ruth Abbe, Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda (CASA). Expressed concern over the mandatory and racist element of the Plan; discussed the use of woks; ; expressed concern over a constitutional issue, safety and the electrical grid; urged Council to remove the mandate: John Healy, Alameda. Stated the Plan is not quite fleshed out yet; the City should take the lead by electrifying all City properties; expressed support for the City supporting upgrades to main electrical panels and waiving associated permit fees; discussed incentivizing electric vehicles; urged an optional, phased approach: Carmen Reid, Alameda. Expressed support for education and outreach; stated education should include meaningful input: Donna Fletcher, Alameda. Stated that she does not agree with the requirement to upgrade properties to fully electric upon sale; she is unclear on the use of the term equitable building; expressed concern over older homes requiring electrical panel upgrades, costs being shouldered by tenants, and AMP’s ability to provide service: Therese Hall, Alameda. Expressed support for incentives for voluntary upgrades; stated that she strongly opposes the requirement of electrification upon the sale of homes; expressed concern over AMP not being up to the task; discussed poor water quality and AMP’s reliance on other companies: Margaret Hall, Alameda. Stated Council should move forward with decarbonization; none of the concerns raised are strong enough to justify inaction; climate change is a problem and natural gas contributes; urged Council to move forward with decarbonization: Telephone Caller. In response to Vice Mayor Daysog’s inquiry regarding the funding gap, the Planning, Building, and Transportation Director stated people need incentives to help make decisions; a tax could be charged to raise money to help families upgrade; a tax change requires Council action and voter approval; Council must also decide how the money should be spent; the assumption from staff is that there will be priority for future funding that could be raised by a future tax and Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 7 targeted towards community households most in need of electrifying their household; the decisions have not yet been made and would be subject to further Council discussion. Vice Mayor Daysog expressed support for the ambitious plan; stated his first inclination for the Plan is to wait; other cities in the Bay Area are adopting similarly ambitious plans; he would like to see other cities results first; urged caution due to the costs associated with upgrading single family homes; stated the City is not indicating those wanting to upgrade would be bearing the full cost to upgrade, however, the City will be finding funding mechanisms by potential changes to the Utility User Tax (UUT) or real estate transfer tax; the changes will be costed out to single family homes and buildings; expressed concern over changing the UUT or real estate transfer tax to ameliorate the changes for everyone; stated most people will inevitably be purchasing new appliances due to State requirements for energy efficiency; most people taking part in programs will be low to moderate income families; expressed support for everyone having access to cost relief; expressed concern over framing the program as making changes t o taxes that will only benefit low to moderate income levels; stated everyone should be eligible for the program; he is not supportive of the Plan yet, however, down the road as individual changes to taxes are made, he would consider supporting the program; the Plan is not clear enough. Councilmember Jensen requested clarification that the Plan is not expecting any or all of Alameda’s building stock will be required to change within eight years. The City Manager stated the statement is correct; the Plan is a workplan and does not set an expectation that all homes or buildings will be decarbonized in eight years. Councilmember Jensen inquired how the tax credits or other increases fit into the Plan. The Sustainability and Resiliency Manager responded many costs referenced are from the background report prepared by the Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy; stated staff acknowledges that there may be a need to raise additional revenue to fund some of the contemplated measures in the future; there is recognition that the City may want to evaluate different funding options; staff would need to perform further evaluation of the potential need and which revenue measures to pursue. The City Manager stated the City has other needs and priorities; the Plan has options to consider, however, the options must be considered as part of a larger effort to understand how the City will fund other priorities; staff is presenting ideas and options to explore; staff is not recommending only the proposed approaches and the options will be analyzed as part of other priorities. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council is looking at different City priorities; Council is going to be participating in a priority setting workshop in the future; expressed support for the workshop including possible revenue raising measures to support a number of issues; stated the information will help Council with prioritization. Councilmember Jensen stated the matter provides a groundwork and foundation for City staff to use if Council comes up with a more strategic plan for capital improvements; expressed support for an analysis being provided and a schedule for having City owned buildings switched from instead to electric; stated the City should be the example and leader when imposing restrictions on residential and commercial residents; expressed concern over vulnerable businesses being burdened with the requirement; stated the City should take the lead; she would have liked the Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 8 report to have included an associated, straight-forward cost analysis and electric cost data; the proposed Plan is a nice guideline for future decisions to be made. Councilmember Vella stated any sort of revenue generating measure should be brought into a larger discussion; discussed federal tax credits being rolled out on a broad level; stated the credits address weatherization and electric vehicles (EVs); a number of resources are being rolled out and should be phased into the Plan over the course of the next three years; the work performed by Goldman students is likely not as comprehensive as other available reports; the report only contemplates available technology for the time and a number of things have changed; expressed support for the City finding a way to track State and federal investments, tax credits, and other options to find ways of performing the Decarbonization Plan; stated the work to provide processes needs to be done; expressed concern over people not understanding available incentives; stated the Plan needs to ensure available incentives are user-friendly and tied to priorities; having a user-friendly Plan will ensure a more success rollout; the City needs to continue to message and work with the public to figure out priorities at the State and federal levels; expressed concern over unexpected or higher costs being faced by residents; stated that she would like the City coordinating available options; expressed concern over higher cost projects without financial incentives; stated the City needs to come up with a way to incentivize electrification and finding ways for all levels to work; she does not want the Plan to be borne solely on residential homeowners; the City should also do more work with the business community, the School District, and other commercial entities; discussed a future school bond and upcoming potential funding; stated there are ways to tie in the business community; the City should work with employers and private business owners to invite partnerships for better weatherization and electrification. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the community is always responsive to new ideas; the incentive approach is critical; many great ideas are being proposed; discussed renters facing difficulties charging EVs; expressed support for the City working towards solving related issues; stated the City should support those trying to be better; she opposes any approach that does not use incentives; requested clarification about requirements to perform residential upgrades. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director stated the City requires new construction to be all-electric in Alameda; new includes significant work on a portion of a house, which is more than 50% of the floor area; the new portions of the building must be electrified. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she understands a new foundation would be considered a significant improvement. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director stated a new foundation is not sufficient; the work would need to include more than a new foundation. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the educational outreach needs to ensure everyone understands the current requirements; homeowners have potential to complete a significant improvement requiring electrification; she would like residential requirements clarified; inquired whether the requirement applies only to residential properties and not commercial. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded the requirement applies to both. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the City needs to provided further information so people understand the requirements; members of the public have raised important points; Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 9 homeowners could have to upgrade electrical panel; the City can find ways to reduce permit fees as an incentive and offer rebates; she would like the Plan to be layered and for more EV charging stations throughout the City; she believes electrical appliance cost less initially, but operation cost more in the long term; she would appreciate more having long term cost data provided; many people are trying to save money; many people and businesses have struggled due to COVID-19; she does not believe there have been many landlords have submitted Capital Improvement Plans (CIP); the City is trying to help limit rent increases in order to keep people in their homes; questioned whether the State can mandate rolling blackouts and potential future requirements for electric power; stated that she is unsure of AMP’s level of green energy; the City can provide more education and incentives. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the cleanliness of AMP’s energy sources. Chris Ferrara, AMP, stated the State does not recognize hydro power as renewable; large hydro power is 100% carbon-free; AMP is 100% carbon free, but not 100% renewable. Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed support for the City leading by example versus pressuring a homeowner that is not ready to upgrade. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the report has been informative and timely; discussed recent storm damages and relief efforts; stated the storms are caused by climate change, which is tied to global warming; one of the things that contributes to global warming is emissions from gas appliances, which is one of the reasons for the ambitious Decarbonization Plan; the Plan is not a mandate and the benefits go toward residents’ health and welfare; the City can find reasons why now is not the right time for the Plan, however, the City is playing catch-up; Alameda is an Island and climate change poses a significant threat; the City needs to assess what could be done differently; the time is now; the City should be smart and strategic by putting its money where it goes the furthest; discussed City Hall’s drought tolerant landscape; stated the change was in part due to East Bay Municipal Utility District’s rebate program; an energy audit could indicate City buildings need to upgrade; expressed concern over spending funding on upgrades to City facilities first; stated staff is working with other cities and agencies to share ideas; expressed support for the Decarbonization Plan; stated the time is right to address climate change and the threats posed to the City; expressed support for AMP being equal to the task and staff’s ability to handle any related inquiries; stated the City Manager is a member of the Public Utilities Board; the Plan is exciting for Alameda; Alameda could set an example for other cities in the future. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she strongly believes Alamedans will perform the upgrades once educated and incentivized; many Alamedans are under financial pressure as well as business owners, landlords and tenants. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the meaning behind approval of the Decarbonization Plan. The City Manager stated the Plan is intended to be the vision or road map over the next eight years; the City is not committing to specific revenue measures, policies, or programs; staff is emphasizing education and community outreach for all steps of the Plan; education and outreach would occur well before any policy is brought to Council for consideration; the Plan ideas will push the envelope with thoughts on how to achieve reductions in emissions related to decarbonization; the proposed changes discussed by Council related to public buildings will be Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 10 incorporated into the Plan. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for workshops being held with assisted living facilities and for staff finding a business willing to be a pilot program participant; stated the resolution does not have a date requirement. Councilmember Vella moved approval of adoption of the resolution, with the comments and feedback from Council. Councilmember Jensen seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: No; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 3. Noes: 2. *** Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called a recess at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:20 p.m. *** (23-040) Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. 16026, “Adopting a General Plan Amendment to Update the Mobility Element Street Classification Appendix.” Adopted. The Planning, Building and Transportation Director and Susie Hufstader, Fehr and Peers, gave a Power Point presentation. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated Versailles Avenue is currently a slow street and is designated in the map as a local street; there are other streets listed as local on the map; discussed traffic backups along Otis Drive; inquired whether the amendment is a goal to be achieved or whether the amendment captures current road conditions. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded the amendment is part of the General Plan, looks forward in time and provides guidance on how to achieve future conditions; goals for streets are aspirational; some streets are shown as local and some are transitional. Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired when the Versailles Avenue slow street will be reevaluated. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded the last review was part of the Active Transportation Plan ; stated the idea is to keep Versailles Avenue a slow street until the design process for a neighborhood greenway is started. Vice Mayor Daysog stated 25 miles per hour is a target; requested clarification on the City’s ability to achieve the target; inquired whether State law changes will be necessary. The Planning, Building, and Transportation Director responded, staff is trying to create a neighborhood environment; stated traffic speed will be reduced; the ability to lower a speed lim it depends on the City’s ability to show that the street is designed for a lower speed; staff’s objective is to design streets to lower speed limits. Expressed concern over street design standards being missing for Monarch Street; stated Monarch Street should have its own street classification to protect its historical and visual integrity; expressed concerns over the shipping containers; urged Council not to adopt the Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 11 amendment: Tod Hickman. Vice Mayor Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation [including adoption of the resolution]. Councilmember Vella seconded the motion. Under discussion, Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she will not be supporting the matter; some of the actions have been implemented; expressed concern over the incr ease in high injury accidents over the past few years; stated some of the recent changes have contributed to a higher rate of high injury accidents and fatalities; expressed concern over lane widths of new construction; stated two-way traffic will likely require one car to stop in order for the other to pass safely; the lanes were not designed well; parks need space for people to unload; expressed concern over Bohol Circle Park not having parking; stated new parks and construction are meeting new standards that are not practical; discussed a head-on collision; stated that she has almost been the victim of a head-on collision; cars are moving too fast along curves and turns are being made too late; serious safety issues are not being addressed; unsafe driving occurs frequently throughout town; congestion and lack of policing needs to be reevaluated post-COVID-19; bus use is not back to pre-pandemic ridership; EVs are still efficient and space must be made for their use; cars are being diverted to narrow streets due to Versailles Avenue being a slow street; the City must have an honest discussion about current street conditions; discussed car and bus traffic throughout Alameda not having enough space and lanes not being wide enough; noted people are telecommuting; she would like to know of ways to make streets safer; expressed concern over keeping the historical integrity of views throughout Alameda; stated some of the new construction could be focused on protecting views and historic value; Alameda is an old town and should be focused on the community. On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: No; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 4. Noes: 1. CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS (23-041) The City Manager discussed recent extreme weather; announced the warming shelter will continue to remain open daily through January; stated the City’s ban on gas-powered leaf blowers went into effect January 1, 2023; made announcements about a restaurant at Alameda Point called Saltbreaker, the grand opening of Bohol Circle Immigrant Park, and a rose pruning demonstration. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA None. COUNCIL REFERRALS (23-042) Consider Directing Staff to Start a Process to Modify the City Charter to Increase the City Council to Have Seven Members. (Vice Mayor Daysog) Not heard at the request of Vice Mayor Daysog. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 12 (23-043) Consider Directing Staff to Review Offering Free Narcan Vending Machines. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer) Councilmember Herrera Spencer gave a brief presentation. Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the referral. Councilmember Vella stated that she appreciates the referral; expressed concern over issues related to getting Narcan and Naloxone to first responders; stated there is a distribution program through healthcare services; the Governor’s recent budget proposal included an additional $79 million to help with the distribution project; municipalities can apply for first responders, non- profits, and schools; there is a bit of a delay getting the product out due to supply issues; people in California can get Narcan in pharmacies; a number of non-profits also have Narcan available; expressed concern over storage issues with Narcan and training associated with administering Narcan; stated that she understands the product will likely be a nasal spray to ease administering it; people need to know the signs of spotting an opioid overdose; expressed concern over the vending machines taking product away from first responders; stated that she would like Alameda CARE Team to address the City needs and provide a general recommendation and report; addressing the fentanyl epidemic is important; people are working on the issue with Statewide task forces; schools are providing assistance with the issue; she would like to ensure the City is plugging resources in where needed versus potentially spending City resources on a product which will sit unused. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated two Councilmembers have been appointed to the liaison committee with the Alameda Unified School District; questioned whether the matter can be placed on an upcoming agenda; expressed support for the matter being included in the Council priority setting workshop; expressed concern over the use of staff time. Expressed support for having Narcan vending machines: Tod Hickman. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like to see the matter be included in the priority setting workshop; she is not sure of the proposed logistics including where the vending machines would be placed or serviced; many questions are raised by the matter. Vice Mayor Daysog stated the topic can be discussed at the priority setting workshop, however, he would like to hear from Councilmember Herrera Spencer; there is value to the public in getting staff to report details on the referral; expressed support for the topic. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed concern over potential liabilities the City could face in providing Narcan in a vending machine without providing any training. Councilmember Jensen stated the use of Narcan to help with opioid overdose is well documented; expressed support for learning more from the Fire Department; questioned whether Council has heard from public safety on the amounts of overdoses in the City; stated that she understands overdoses are not the highest reported incident at Alameda Hospital; if overdoses become a large issue faced by the City, she supports looking into providing Narcan; she would like to know the distribution locations and any associated liabilities; noted Narcan is available in a number of pharmacies throughout Alameda, however, people might not know about the availability; questioned whether there is cost associated with procuring Narcan at a pharmacy; stated that she would like to know if there are no-cost options. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 13 Councilmember Vella stated that she would like the City to check with Alameda Hospital and other non-profits that serve various populations in Alameda, including organizations that serve unhoused populations, about eligibility to participate in the Naloxone Distribution Project with California Department of Health Care Service; the State has been pushing for free distribution of Naloxone/Narcan; she would like to ensure the City is looking at all available programs; many schools have the products on-site, as well as trained staff; a number of different solutions could be no-cost to the City with potentially more effective distribution to members of the public; she supports the intent of the Council Referral. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the Referral is a first-step; staff would research the matter next; she does not think it is free to get Narcan at a pharmacy and can cost $140; discussed students having drugs easily accessible; expressed concern over the City not taking the matter seriously; stated delays could happen while a student or resident overdoses and dies; people are not going to spend $140 at a pharmacy; it is important for the community to recognize the role of government is to get ahead of issues; her preference would be to honor the Council Referral process and see if there are enough votes to proceed with staff looking at options; Council cannot hear from the community unless there is an agenda item; those taking drugs are not the ones to call the Police or Fire Departments with a problem; seconds and minutes make a big difference; the purpose in bringing forth the Referral was to be similar to other cities in California that are performing the same actions to get ahead as opposed to waiting until there are deaths; she has made a motion to direct staff to review offering free Narcan vending machines and look at potential partners. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she cannot support the motion as-stated; she can support bringing the matter to the priority setting workshop to see how to include the matter into the workplan; Council needs more data related to numbers in Alameda and how much of an issue the City faces; a lot is unknown. Councilmember Jensen inquired the difference between supporting the motion and taking the matter to the priority setting workshop; whether one way would be more effective in obtaining information. The City Manager responded the idea of the priority setting workshop is to try and prioritize workplans and projects across different departments; the project could be added to the workplan in a specific year; staff will not directly jump into projects; expressed concern over getting into the policy merits of a matter; stated Council can direct staff to provide information on the effects of making Narcan more accessible to members of the community within year one; staff can provide data from the Fire Department and Alameda Hospital as part of a Council meeting or during the priority setting workshop; expressed concern over delving into the merits of policy during the priority setting. Councilmember Jensen expressed support for having the matter come back as part of the report on the Alameda CARE program, including the extent of the problem as well as processes in other cities. The City Manager noted the Alameda CARE team will be providing an update in the future; the report will remain high-level and will include requested details. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like to know details; the effort is laudable. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 14 Vice Mayor Daysog sated the concept raised is great and he would support the motion; the process outlined by the City Manager is practical and Council could conceivably have the discussion as part of the priority setting workshop; expressed support for coming up with year one outcomes related to Narcan; the discussion could be achieved at the priority setting meeting; he would be disappointed if the topic is not raised. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that a priority setting workshop could also include discussing the process of a Council Referral; expressed concern over the questions being asked not being part of the Referral process; noted substance will not be discussed at the priority setting workshop. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council needs to understand whether there is an issue prior to directing staff to look into bringing a matter back to Council. The motion failed for a lack of second. (23-044) Consider Directing Staff to Review Having a Holiday Tree, Menorah, Kwanzaa Banner, etc., in Front of City Hall and a Mayor’s Tree Lighting Event. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer) Councilmember Herrera Spencer gave a brief presentation. Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of staff reviewing having the holiday tree, menorah, and Kwanzaa banner as before. Councilmember Vella inquired whether the process to undo a Council action is being taken and the appropriate procedures. The City Clerk responded previous decisions can be revisited and changed; stated a matter can come back and Council can make a different decision; the referral process allows Councilmembers to bring forward any issue and does not prohibit this type of action. The City Attorney concurred with the City Clerk. Stated many people were disappointed about not seeing holiday decorations at City Hall; City Hall should represent the community in a positive way; holiday lights are a way to celebrate; urged Council to bring back the matter: Carmen Reid, Alameda. Stated many people were shocked and dismayed that there was not a holiday celebration at City Hall; she was offended by what was put up last year; holidays are representative of the community; urged Council to support the matter: Karen Miller, Alameda. Stated not seeing the tree up at City Hall was a huge loss; many people commented about not seeing the tree in front of City Hall; trees are not religious symbols; there is a way to incorporate all religions in front of City Hall: Therese Hall, Alameda. Stated that she missed the tree last year; the tree is a tradition for her family; expressed support for the tree coming back and representing all backgrounds: Margaret Hall, Alameda. Vice Mayor Daysog seconded the motion. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 15 Under discussion, Vice Mayor Daysog stated members of the public are free to characterize the tree in any way they wish; he believes the tree is a holiday tree, which is non-religious; there have been elements of religion in front of City Hall; Council needs to view the matter as non- religious; Council should discuss the matter and decide how to celebrate the end of the year. Councilmember Jensen stated there are many traditions that make Alameda a special place to live; she was not on Council when it approved the holiday decorations; she understands the Easter egg hunt will not occur this year; expressed support for the motion because she would like to be clear on what the City is going to support in the future; questioned why the City would not support a community event at City Hall when AMP supports another lighting event. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how staff envisions community events in the future. The City Manager responded that she is still gaining information on all City matters, however, staff can engage the community in a discussion about different faiths within the community; stated staff can perform outreach and bring back something that incorporates different faiths. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she had a brief discussion with the Recreation and Parks Director about having the tree lighting in a different location; she missed having decorations at City Hall; the decorations were omitted in part due to the new landscaping not being able to accommodate the equipment; expressed support for having a wider community discussion and not having the matter only be heard by the Recreation and Parks Commission; stated that she would like to have a more festive City Hall this year. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated staff should share information with all Councilmembers; there is a Council Referral process; the motion has been seconded and there is support for the Referral; expressed concern over having a large community process and spending a lot of staff time on the matter; stated the Referral goes to the City bringing back the holiday tree and menorah; other things can be added to the event; the City previously included Kwanzaa items in the celebration. Councilmember Vella expressed support for bringing back decorations; stated it would be helpful to have staff look into whether the City is doing things that are inclusive; previous decorations only included certain aspects of the holidays. The City Manager stated the direction provided is for staff to move forward with the Referral; staff can perform other community processes to find ways to be more inclusive. Vice Mayor Daysog stated that he will support the matter; expressed concern over events being connected to religion. The City Clerk stated the Referral process allows for the matter to come back to Council for further consideration. The City Manager inquired whether the expectation is staff will perform work around different faiths and understanding other what other cities do, and then return to Council; stated there is time; she would like to manage expectations; the City could benefit from a little outreach and community input. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council January 17, 2023 16 Councilmember Herrera Spencer responded there is a natural timeline; stated that she would like the matter to be settled by the end of the year and is happy to defer to staff. On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Jensen: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS (23-045) Vice Mayor Daysog discussed attending the CASA sponsored Waterfront Park cleaning, the Elks Club public safety appreciation event, and a screening of the Norma Ray movie at Alameda Theatre; expressed condolences for the loss of former Councilmember Richard Roth. (23-046) Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed concern over the AHA report being provided at Council meetings under Oral Communications; stated time has been provided for other agencies to provide reports; the report appears to be ongoing, however, the report is not the best use of public comment time; recommended reports be provided under agenda section 3: Announcements, Special Orders, and Proclamations; noted many people often wish to speak under Oral Communications and time is limited. (23-047) Councilmember Jensen announced that she attended the League of California Cities mixer for the East Bay Division and the Elks Club public safety appreciation event, and spent at Christ Episcopal Church warming shelter. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed the warming shelter and the McKay Wellness Center. (23-048) Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the section would be a good opportunity for Council to hear a variety of City information. (23-049) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed that she attended at League of California Cities mixer, a group bike ride in Washington DC, and the Conference of Mayors; stated that she will be meeting with federal lobbyists while in Washington DC; she will attend the upcoming opening of Bohol Circle Immigrant Park. ADJOURNMENT (23-050) There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 10:51 p.m. in memory of former Councilmember Richard Roth. Respectfully submitted, Lara Weisiger City Clerk The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.