HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 4.01 Draft Minutes 10-6-98
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REGl1LAR :\IEETI:\G - October 6.1998
A regular meeting of the Dublin City Council was held on Tuesday, October 6, 1998, in the
COlUlCil Chambers of the Dublin Civic Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:05
p.m., by Mayor Houston.
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ROLL CALL
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PRESENT: Councilmembers Barnes, Burton, Howard, Lockhart and Mayor Houston.
ABSENT: None.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Adam Harris, Keean Hood, Patrick Lunberg, Billy Shoewing, and Andrew Burgess from
Den 4 of Pack 930 led the Council, Staff and those present in the pledge of allegiance to the
flag.
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INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEE
7:06 p.m. 3.1 (700-10)
Chief of Police Thuman introduced new Dublin Police Services Deputy James Horton.
Deputy Horton indicated he was looking forward to serving the Dublin community. He only
has 26 more years until he retires and he hopes to serve it here in Dublin.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6,1998
PAGE 444
ITEM NO. ~
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PROCLAMA TION
7:08 p.m. 3.2 (610-50)
Mayor Houston read a proclamation declaring October 1998, Crime Prevention Month in
the City of Dublin and urged all citizens; government agencies, public and private
institutions, and businesses to invest in the power of prevention and work together for the
common good. Chief of Police Thuman received the proclamation and expressed his thank
you to the community. TIns is a wonderful community to live and work in. He has been in
law enforcement for 29 years spending the last 2 years in DlJblin. There is a spirit of
cooperation in the community that is like a breathe of fresh air.
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7:12 p.m.
Recvcling (810-60)
Mark Dorazio, 80 Cedar Pointe Loop, # 1409, San Ramon, indicated Ins concern regarding
recycling. Cardboard was not being recycled by the commercial properties in Dublin, but
being placed in the bins with the regular garbage. The recycling bin at Shannon Center was
not being used. He had tied a piece of thread to the bin in May and it had not been broken
when he checked in September. Recycling bins at Arbor Creek were not properly labeled.
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Discretionary Funding Issue (470-50)
Tom Benigno, 6546 Cottonwood Circle, Dublin, wanted to reduce problems before they
happened. He was concerned about the discretionary funding issue and the Ridgelands
Issue.
.' Mayor Houston indicated both items were on the agenda and Mr. Benigno should speak at
that time.
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October 6, 1998
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Truck Parking Problem (570-30)
George Zika, 8046 Peppertree Road, Dublin, expressed his concern about Viking Freight
parking its trucks on the Copeland's site. He asked if they had a use permit?
City Manager Ambrose indicated that Staff would investigate.
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CLOSED SESSION
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10.1 (640-30)
At 7:20 p.m., the Council recessed to a closed session to consult with Legal Counsel
regarding Anticipated Litigation - Initiation of litigation pursuant to subdivision (c) of
Government Code Section 54956.9 - One potential case.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTION
7:25 p.m.
Mayor Houston announced that no action was taken. The public meeting was reconvened
with all Councilmembers present.
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CONSENT CALENDAR.
7:25 p.m. Items 4.1 through 4.9
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council
took the following actions:
Approved (4.1) Minutes of Regular Meeting of September 15, 1998;
Approved (4.2 600-30) an additional appropriation of $30,773 from unallocated reserves
and adopted
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PAGE 446
RESOLVTIO~ :\0. I4-t. - 98
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.-\ \VARDI:'\G CONTRACT 98-03A
CIVIC CE:\TER RE-ROOF, PHASE I
TO B.ll.R. SERVICES, [i\C. (590,260)
Adopted (4.3 350-20)
RESOLUTIO:\: ;\0. 145 - 98
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A \VARDI:\G PCRCtIASE ORDER
FOR STREET BA~NER REPLACE:\fE;\lT
TO SIERRA DISPLAY, Il\'C. ($8,218.02)
Accepted (4.4 350-20) work perfonned under Project #98-10, Civic Center Fountain Pump
Replacement by Paco Pumps and authorized $9,955.49 payment; (em. BaInes indicated
that the fountain looked lovely.)
Authorized (4.5 600-30) the Mayor to execute an agreement with Hausrath Economics
Group (not to exceed $7,450) for preparation of a revision to the Public Facilities Fee
Justification Study and approved the Budget Change Form;
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Accepted (4.6 600-30) improvements under Contract 98-09, Shannon Park Subdrain;
authorized $15,661.80 payment to GradeTech, Inc., for the final invoice and release of the
10% retention ($1,740.20) after 35 days;
Accepted (4. '7 600.:-30) improvements under Contract 98-08, Shannon Park Pedestrian Path;
authorized $7,015.88 payment to W. T. Cook Construction for the final invoice and to
release retention of$779.54 after 35 days;
Received (4.8 330-50) the Preliminary Financial Report for the Month of August, 1998;
." Approved (4.9 300-40) the Warrant Register in the amount of $874,058.60.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 447
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WRITTEN COl\1MUNICATION FROl\1
EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT REQUESTING
CITY SUPPORT FOR A GRANT APPLICATION RELATED TO THE
ACQUISITION OF OPEN SPACE IN THE WESTERN DUBLIN HILLS
7:26 p.m. 5.1 (920-80)
City Manager Ambrose advised that the East Bay Regional Park District is requesting
support for the District's proposal to acquire 306 acres of land located on Skyline Ridge
located west of the City of Dublin's current City limits. This land currently belongs to Scott
and John Machado. There will be no cost impact 'On the CitY for supporting this request.
The acquisition of the Machado property by the District would substantially lengthen the
trail corridor along Donlon Ridge.
Marjorie Labar, 11707 Juarez Lane, Dublin, felt this was an important position in the link.
She was glad Mr. Machado was willing to sell. If the community wanted permanent Open
Space, most land will need to be purchased. She thanked tile Council for supporting tins
grant application.
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David Bewley, 11166 Brittany Lane, Dublin, felt this was an excellent concept and fitted
with the General Plan. It was being done with free money.
Tom Ford, 7262 Tina Place, Dublin, supported the effort to get a grant. He indicated that
Pleasanton's property values are higher. He felt lack of amenities was why Dublin's
property values are lower. We need more open space.
Cm. Burton stated this was the way it should be done.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council
authorized the Mayor to send a letter supporting the EBRPD's Grant Application for the
acquisition of 306-acres located on Skyline Ridge west of the current City boundary.
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PUBLIC HEARING
T ASSAJARA l\IEADOWS RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT P A 98-035
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7:37p.m. 6.1 (450-30)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Associate Planner Huston presented the Staff Report and advised that tIns application
involves a request by Mission Peaks Hqp1es for City Council approval of a Planned
Development Rezoning and Development Plan for a 95-lot s_ubdivision on an 11.7 -acre site
at tIle northwest comer of Tassajara Road and Gleason Drive. The site is designated for
medium density residential in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. There are a variety of floor
plans and eight color schemes. It is adjacent to Tassajara Creek and the future City Park. It
has an attractive design, is practical, and is an appropriate project for the site.
Cm. Burton asked how this project was related to the Casterson property?
Ms. Huston indicated they were different projects under separate ownerslnp, but they both
would be built by phasing.
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Cm. Burton asked if one contractor would build all the houses in phases.
Ms. Huston indicated that was true.
Gary ???? of western Dublin, asked if this was medium density, what was high density?
There was no open space in the area. He asked about what they were doing for schools in
the area. He stated they couldn't get one more house in there if they tried. He urged the
Council to reconsider this project. Where were the kids going to play, out in the street? It
looked too high in density.
Sue Rainey asked if she had heard right, were the lots 70' by 45'? That's 3,150 sq. ft. lots.
.- She has lived in houses bigger than these lots. Where are the children going to go? She felt
the project should be rethought. She thought it looked liked low income housing. She
didn't believe this project was beneficial to Dublin.
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Ordinance to approve the Planned Development Rezone & Development PlanlDistrict
Planned Development Plan and scheduled the second reading of the Ordinance for the
October 20, 1998 City Council meeting.
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PUBLIC HEARING - ADJUSTMENTS OF FEES FOR
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE CITY OF DUBLIN
7:46 p.m. 6.2 (390-20) -
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Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
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City Attorney Silver advised that since 1995, the City has adopted fees to pay for the
impacts of new development on fire facilities, circulation, and public facilities and as
adopted, these fees do not provide any mechanism to allow them to be adjusted to keep
pace with inflation. This proposed Resolution would express the City's intent to modify
these fees by annually adjusting them based on the Construction Cost Index for the San
Francisco Bay Area (CCI) and the Land Index. Developers and others will thus be put on
notice that the City Council is in the process of adopting an inflation adjustment for the fees.
If the Council adopts the Resolution, Staff will begin preparing the resolutions and
supporting materials by which the City may impose these contemplated inflation
adjustments.
Cm. Burton asked if this was including the land cost or did he misread it?
Ms. Silver indicated it would use the construction cost index for construction and the land
index for the land necessary to acquire. They needed a way for the land cost to keep up
with inflation in land values. They were assuming the percentage would be the same for the
second year and the third year they might do an appraisal.
. Cm. Lockhart asked if that meant another increase could not be made until an appraisal was
done.
Cm. Burton asked what percentage of the fees was based on square footage of area vs.
valuation? Building permits are based on valuation.
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Mayor Houston stated there was open space. He asked Staff if there was an overhead of .
the entire eastern area showing the open space and Community Park? He indicated that all
these things are addressed.
Ms. Huston indicated there was not an overhead of all the area available tonight.
Mr. Ambrose stated there is a 56 acre City Park just across Gleason Drive.
Mayor Houston asked where the elementary school was located?
Ms. Huston responded within the Dublin Ranch ~oject acro'ss Tassajara Road.
em. Burton stated we hear about the need for affordable housing, but the problem happens
due to so many fees. The cost was $100,000 per lot due to fees so lots have to be smaller.
There are zero line lots in west Dublin that have been well received and they have less side
yards. He felt it was a good project. This project would not cost the existing west Dublin
residents anything. All new infrastructure fees for schools, fire department, parks, and
roads have to be paid by the developers. It is a different set of rules now. It is hard to build
houses in an affordable range with all the fees. The City is trying to develop jobs and .
housing together.
Cm. Barnes asked Staff to provide an overall map at the next meeting so everyone could see
the total picture. They need to see the total picture. The Council is trying to provide many
different product types for many different people. Some people don't want large lots.
Cm. Lockhart agreed with Cm. Barnes in that the City is trying to accommodate lots of
different living styles. Some people do not want a view. This project is a good starter.
There is not a lot of yard work and upkeep. There are buyers out there for this type of
product. It gives our kids an opportunity to buy a starter place to live in. She did not feel it
was bad to mix types of housing. It provides housing at a lower cost to bring others into the
community.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council
waived the reading and INTRODUCED the Ordinance amending the Dublin Zoning
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Mayor Houston stated there was open space. He asked Staff if there was an overhead of
the entire eastern area showing the open space and Community Park? He indicated that all
these things are addressed.
Ms. Huston indicated there was not an overhead of all the area available tonight.
~. Ambrose stated there is a 56 acre City Park just across Gleason Drive.
Mayor Houston asked where the elementary school was located?
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Ms. Huston responded within the Dublin Ranch Project across Tassajara Road.
Cm. Burton stated we hear about the need for affordable housing, but the problem happens
due to so many fees. The cost was $100,000 per lot due to fees so lots have to be smaller.
There are zero line lots in west Dublin that have been well received and they have less side
yards. He felt it was a good project. This project would not cost the existing west Dublin
residents anything. All new infrastructure fees for schools, fire department, parks, and
roads have to be paid by the developers. It is a different set of rules now. It is hard to build
houses in an affordable range with all the fees. The City is trying to develop jobs and
housing together.
Cm. Barnes asked Staff to provide an overall map at the next meeting so everyone could see
the total picture. They need to see the total picture. The Council is trying to provide many
different product types for many different people. Some people don't want large lots.
Cm. Lockhart agreed with Cm. Barnes in that the City is trying to accommodate lots of
different living styles. Some people do not want a view. This project is a good starter.
There is not a lot of yard work and upkeep. There are buyers out there for this type of
product. It gives our kids an opportunity to buy a starter place to live in. She did not feel it
was bad to mix types of housing. It provides housing at a lower cost to bring others into the
community.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council
waived the reading and INTRODUCED the Ordinance amending the Dublin Zoning
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 4.50
Ordinance to approve the Planned Development Rezone & Development Plan/District .
Planned Development Plan and scheduled the second reading of the Ordinance for the
October 20, 1998 City Council meeting.
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PUBLIC HEARING - ADJUSTMENTS OF FEES FOR
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE CITY OF DUBLIN
7:46 p.m. 6.2 (390-20)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
City Attorney Silver advised that since 1995, the City has adopted fees to pay for the
impacts of new development on fire facilities, circulation, and public facilities and as
adopted, these fees do not provide any mechanism to allow them to be adjusted to keep
pace with inflation. Tills proposed Resolution would express the City's intent to modify
these fees by annually adjusting them based on the Construction Cost Index for the San
Francisco Bay Area (CCI) and the Land Index. Developers and others will thus be put on
notice that the City Council is in the process of adopting an inflation adjustment for the fees. .
If the Council adopts the Resolution, Staff will begin preparing the resolutions and
supporting materials by which the City may impose these contemplated inflation
adjustments.
Cm. Burton asked if this was including the land cost or did he misread it?
Ms. Silver indicated it would use the construction cost index for construction and the land
index for the land necessary to acquire. They needed a way for the land cost to keep up
with inflation in land values. They were assuming the percentage would be the same for the
second year and the third year they might do an appraisal.
. Cm. Lockhart asked if that meant another increase could not be made until an appraisal was
done.
Cm. Burton asked what percentage of the fees was based on square footage of area vs.
valuation? Building permits are based on valuation.
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Mr. Ambrose responded that the fee varies depending on the type of fee and the location of
the land. Land costs are escalating quite a bit. There has to be enough fees to buy the land
for roads and parks that are not dedicated.
Ms. Silver also indicated it varies for fire impact fees and traffic impact fees.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of Cm. Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Burton, and by unanimous vote, the Council
adopted "0
RESOLl;TION :\1::>. 146 - 9:8
EXPRESSING THE CITY~S INTENT TO ADJVST
FIRE FACILITIES, TRAFFIC I\IPACT Ai\D
Pl~BLIC DEVELOP;\IE:\T FEES
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PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
TO CHAPTER 8.136 OF THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE
(ZONING ORDINANCE) RELATING TO APPEALS PA 98-052
7:53 p. m. 6.3 (450-20)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Senior Planner Carrington presented the Staff Report and advised that this item is for the
Council to consider changes to the Appeals Procedure of the Zoning Ordinance to allow a
City Councilmember to appeal an action of the Zoning Administrator, Community
Development Director and Planning Commission, and to make nlinor amendments to other
appeal procedures.
< Mr. Carrington discussed changes to various sections of Chapter 8.136 of the Zoning
Ordinance. Now a person has 90 days. The change would be to hear the appeal within 45
days and take action within 75 days.
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Mr. Carrington stated with regard to Section 8.136.040.B. Permit and Hearing Actions, .
Staff proposed revised language that stated that no inference of bias would be made because
of an appeal by a City Councilmember of an action of the Zoning Administrator,
Community Development Director and Planning Commission. On the basis of that lack of
bias, the City Councilmember would not have been disqualified from voting at the appeal
hearing.
The Planning Commission at its September 22, 1998 public hearing on tills matter, voted to
add language to this section stating, "Th_e City Councilmember appealing an item shall be
disqualifiedfrom the appeal hearing. " Staffrecq~ends t~at the City Councilmember
appealing an item should not be disqualified from the appeal'hearing.
Cm. Burton said we have had experience where one of our Councihnembers couldn't make
the appeal and present the case.
Cm. Barnes stated she was really surprised with the Planning Commission taking that
person out of the discussion. She felt a Councilmember is still a member of the community.
She wanted the public to realize that if a Councilmember files an appeal, they are stopped
from doing any investigation on their own, they can't visit the site, and they can't talk to
anyone about the appeal. They come to the Council meeting and act in a quasi-juridical
manner; i.e. they listen to the testimony and then they vote. It is a very serious duty.
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Cm. Lockhart felt the City should not take away the elected person's rights if they felt a
second look was needed.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of em. Burton, seconded by Cm. Barnes, and by unanimous vote, the Council
waived the reading and INTRODUCED the Ordinance amending Chapter 8.136 of the
Dublin Municipal Code and scheduled the second reading of the Ordinance for the City
Council meeting of October 20, 1998.
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REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE
CITY OF PLEASANTON FOR 1-580 INTERCHANGES
8:01p.m.
7.1 (600-40)
City Manager Ambrose presented the Staff Report and advised that tIus agreement will
facilitate the transfer of approximately $7,384,000 plus interest, from fees collected from
development within the Eastern Dublin -General Plan Area. These fees will be used to repay
the City of Pleasant on for Pleasanton's advancing costs over and above its fair share of the
construction of interchanges on I-580 at Hacienda Drive and Santa Rita RoadlTassajara
Road. This agreement will resolve a long standingissue betWeen Dublin and Pleasanton
and will provide the framework for future cooperation between both Cities regarding the
future improvement ofI-580. The City of Pleasant on adopted this agreement at their
August 15th Council meeting.
Cm. Burton felt the $7 million figure would scare some people. He explained that tlus was
to pay Pleasanton back for building the interchanges.
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Mr. Ambrose indicated in 1989 the City of Dublin committed to pay its fair share, wl1ich is
$7.4 million.
em. Burton asked if the City had received any money from the developers yet?
Mr. Ambrose responded that yes, the City has been collecting money.
Mayor Houston explained that this would fulfill Dublin's commitment. In 1996 a Liaison
Committee was formed with Kay Ayala and Sharrell Michelotti representing Pleasanton.
He wanted to thank them for helping to bring about this winlwin situation.
Cm. Lockhart agreed Sharrell Michelotti and Kay Ayala were very helpful. She felt this is a
historical moment. For years the two cities couldn't agree on how to pay Pleasanton back.
," This Liaison Committee worked hard to restore the trust between the two communities.
There was a good chemistry.
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PAGE 454
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On motion of Cm. Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Barnes, and by unanimous vote, the Council .
approved the agreement and authorized the Mayor to execute and directed Staff to prepare a
revision to the existing Freeway Interchange Fee Resolution NO.1 1 -96.
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DRAFT DUBLIN RIDGE LANDS VOTERS' VOICE INITIATIVE
8:10 p. m. 8.1 (420-10)
City Attorney Silver advised that Morgan King has sent Staff a letter requesting that the
City Council authorize Staff to engage in direct communication with the authors of the draft
Dublin Ridgelands Voters' Voice Initiative for purposes of identifying and resolving
unintended problems with the initiative and that the City Council appoint a committee
comprised of Councilmembers and City Staff to meet with initiative proponents to explore
whether the City should adopt the initiative into law rather than calling an election. The
proposed committee would be subject to the Brown Act.
City Attorney Silver advised that Councilmember Lockhart requested at the Council's
September 15th meeting that Staff prepare an analysis of th~ draft initiative. .
The proponents have not yet begun the formal process of circulating the initiative. The
process requires the proponents to file with the City Clerk a notice of intent to circulate the
initiative. The City Attorney must then prepare a title and summary. The proponents then
publish the notice, title and summary, and may then begin to collect signatures. If sufficient
"prima facie" signatures are obtained (within a 6-month period), the City Clerk will verify
the signatures. If there are sufficient valid signatures, the Council must either adopt the
proposed ordinance (exactly as written), or call an election and submit the proposed
ordinance to the electorate.
The initiative, if adopted, would require that for the next 30 years, all future proposals for
constructing new development, or to permanently extend utilities or services in the Western
, Dublin Extended Planning Area would need to be approved by Dublin voters. The initiative
makes an exception to allow agricultural or open space recreational uses in order to
encourage the preservation of natural habitat, oak woodlands, creeks, etc., and uses that are
necessary for public health and safety. In addition, an elevation cap is established limiting
any development that needs to be approved to avoid an unconstitutional taking of private
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property to no higher than 670'. The initiative would apply to the Western Extended
Planning Area beyond the City limits, but within the Sphere of Influence. If that area is
annexed to the City, the initiative would govern land uses in that area.
Ms. Silver indicated that the City Manager had received another letter from Morgan King
with some changes to the initiative, but Staff has not had an opportunity to review the
changes.
Mayor Houston indicated he was in favqr of appointing a subcommittee with Cm. Howard
and em. Lockhart representing the Couricil. He 'Yould like the subcommittee to bring a
schedule back to the next Council meeting. .... .
Cm. Lockhart felt the sooner the subcommittee got started the sooner communication could
be developed to see where everyone stood.
Morgan King stated he wanted the Council to authorize Staff to talk to them on the phone to
answer their questions.
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Mayor Houston felt the first step was to get all the parties together in person rather than
being on the phone. It is going to require consensus of the citizens, Staff and the Council to
get it going in the right direction. He was not in favor of haphazard communication, but
wanted it proper and formalized.
Ms. Silver indicated the Brown Act would apply to tills committee. If members met by
themselves not as a committee, it would not be under the Brown Act
Mayor Houston stated the Brown Act for elected officials required that three people can't
talk and agree before hand about an issue. When there is an ad hoc committee, how does
that work?
Ms. Silver said the meetings would have to be noticed. They should only talk about the
. subject at hand at the meeting. Two members ofa committee can talk to each other, but
they can't talk to a third member of the committee. They may also talk to other people not
on the committee.
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Mr. King felt this would take a cumbersome amount of time and wanted the Council to .
authorize Staff to discuss informally with them as they worked on the language for the
initiative. He wanted to thank Staff for their help. The initiative was ready to go but they
were willing to hold off. He was concerned that the committee will take too much time,
possibly weeks. His goal was to have a process to polish up and get the final language and
create something wmch is mutually acceptable. .
Mayor Houston stated it has to be done in a public forum. It may take longer. If their group
has to file its initiative, then so be it. Dq what you have to do. But let's meet and be
serious. As far as the City Council was concerneck it must be done in a public way, not,in a
haphazard way with phone calls.
Cm. Lockhart felt it was important for everyone to hear what the initiative involves. She
wanted to get it going and get it done fast. They did not want to interrupt the proponents'
time line for the initiative. She encouraged getting a timeline and expediting as soon as
possible.
Mr. King stated his group wanted to file on October 12th.
Tom Benigno, 6546 Cottonwood Circle, Dublin, stated he was here as a citizen's advocate. .
He didn't understand why they were trying to stop development for 30 years. Houses up
there would be in the $700,000 range, wmch would help the value of their houses. He had
talked to Mr. Nielsen and other people in the area and he felt tIns was premature. He
wanted Staff to look at it and reappraise it every year. He didn't feel it was right to say you
can't build for thirty years. He felt the City has done a great job. TIley have come a long
way. Don't shut it down.
Mayor Houston explained this is why there should be a subcommittee. People have
different perspectives and different views. He wanted people to come together and create
something everyone can be proud of.
, Cm. Burton stated this will be public meetings people can attend and express their thoughts.
Tom Ford, 7262 Tina Place, Dublin, felt this was a democratic, fair initiative. He indicated
that he was a member of P ARC, Preserve Our Ridgelands Committee, a California non-
profit organization dedicated to preserving space for parks and open space. He is familiar
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with the contents of the initiative and PARC supports it. He believes it is the right control
for tlns situation. He urged the Council to fully cooperate in this effort.
Dave Bewley, co-author of initiative, stated what they have done tonight is unusual. We all
live here. There will be diverse opinions, but we want to do what is best for Dublin. They
wanted to give the voters the right to vote on prezone, not to stop development. An Urban
Growth Boundary would be a legal way to s~op development. This is about a voters
initiative. He felt the public forum is a great idea. It would be beneficial to all so tlley can
communicate. There needs to be dialo~e about what is going on in the hills. It needs to be
done in a timely fashion. He wanted to move fo~ard.
Marjorie Labar, 11707 Juarez Lane, Dublin, indicated that she has stood in this same place
and talked over a 100 times since 1985 to the Council. She disliked the 1 :00 a.m. Planning
Commission meetings. We have gone over the same territory over and over again. She
urged spending more time developing the flat lands around BART and leaving the hills
alone. Set the subcommittee as soon as possible and publish a schedule. It was unique to
see the Council willing to work together with them. She wanted to go forward with all due
speed.
. Roxanne Nielsen said she was curious to lmow how these people who have spoken would
feel if they owned the land. Would they have the same attitude? Flat lands can be used for
agriculture, but the ridgelands cannot be used for agricultural.
John Anderson stated the purpose of their requests was to form a committee. The initiative
was not designed to take land from anybody. It is designed to open up to a vote. People
can vote however they wanted to. He wanted a fast track and asked what the format of
operations would be.
Mayor Houston assigned Cm. Howard and Cm. Lockhart to the subcommittee with Cm.
Lockhart to be the Chair. The citizens can decide whether they want two or three members
on the subcommittee. The City Attorney or her designee and one member of the Planning
. Staff will represent City Staff. The second item would be to get who is on the
subcommittee by tomorrow & schedule the first meeting so this can be done in a quick
fashion.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
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REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 458
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Ms. Silver stated the Council needed to designate by name the members of the
subcommittee.
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Mr. King indicated David Bewley, Jolm Anderson, and he would represent the citizens.
Mayor Houston indicated these are public meetings and anyone can attend. It is to be a
group that will discuss ideas and faslpon something that is very good, but it has to be a
public setting.
Ms. Silver asked to clarify the purpose o-f the committee.
S;.
Mayor Houston stated it would be an analysis of the Dublin Ridgelands Voters Initiative in
regard to technical and substantive issues.
Mr. King indicated that if the Council simply adopts an agreed ordinance, the Council could
amend or rescind the ordinance at any time. One of the fundamental purposes of the
initiative is to prevent that from happening. So the process they have to go through is to
have to get the required number of signatures under the Election Code. If they get the
required number of signatures and they present them to the City, then the City has a choice .
to either force it to an election and if it is adopted by the voters, it cannot be amended or
rescinded without a vote. However, if the Council takes the other option to simply adopt it
into law, it would save the City money and them a lot of effort. At that point, it cannot be
amended or rescinded without putting it to a vote so for us to accomplish our purpose, we
have to get the signatures. But, hopefully, once we do that, we will have an ordinance that
the City will agree to adopt which saves the City a lot of money and saves us a lot of effort.
Mayor Houston responded that will be the decision of the Council at that time. If we can
come up with some consensus, your outcome is probably what will happen.
Cm. Lockhart felt the subcommittee is a good vehicle, a good place to start and it did not
need to be dragged out. She understood their need to get signatures.
Ms. Nielsen stated she was concerned that they were talking about something that possibly
could become a law without having another person's opinion like hers which is contrary.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
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REGULAR tvfEETING
October 6,1998
PAGE 459
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Mayor Houston assured her that all these meetings would be open to the public and all
could speak.
Ms. Nielsen thought only the committee members could speak.
Cm. Lockhart, explained that it would not become law from the committee. It would be
looked at for language. Th~y would still need to collect signatures and show the Council
that this is what the community wants. The Council would then accept the initiative with
the signatures or put it on the ballot. _
.... '
Ms. Nielsen felt a ballot would represent more ofihe City than what she sees here.
Maureen Gattennan, 11556 Bay Laurel, stated tIlls is not about development. It is not about
stopping the sale. It was about the people of Dublin getting to vote.
On motion of Mayor Houston, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the
Council established a subcommittee consisting of em. Lockhart, Cm. Howard, John
Anderson, David Bewley, Morgan King, City Attorney Elizabeth Silver, and a member of
the Community Development Department with Cm. Lockhart being the Chair to work on
getting set up a proper forum for noticing this week, and establishing a schedule.
+-
REVIEW OF QUARRY LANE SCHOOL
DRAFT ENFIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
8:52 p. m. 8.2 (420-50)
Community Development Director Eddie Peabody advised that Alameda County has
prepared a draft Environmental Impact Report for a private school (Quarry Lane School)
which is located within the unincorporated area, but within the City's Eastern Dublin
Specific Plan Area. The DEIR analyzed environmental impacts that would result from the
rezoning of6363 Tassajara Road, located north of the City limits to allow the construction
of a private school for 1,200 students.
Mr. Peabody stated it is proposed that the school would be constructed during three phases
over a nine~year period. In January, City Staff reviewed the Quarry Lane School Initial
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REqULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 460
Study and provided comments to Alameda County, outlining concerns regarding the project.
and recommending items to be included in the EIR.
The County concludes that the school, as proposed, would have a significant impact on the
environment and recommends that the project be developed in conformance with either a
reduced grading alternative or a reduced scale alternative. The reduced scale alternative
would serve 80Q students and reduce the intensity of site development. The applicant has
stated that the reduced scale alternative would not be feasible, given the school's goals.
Staff is concerned that the Draft EIR does not ad~uately analyze the following impacts:
Land Use and Planning, Geology and Soils, Traffic and Circulation and Public Services and
Utilities.
Mr. Ambrose stated impact fees cover the entire East Dublin Planning area but if someone
outside the City but within the area does not pay fees, the amount that they would have paid
has to get passed on to the property owners that are in the City. It increases their cost and
is an important factor for development occurring immediately on our boundaries that
ultimately comes into the City in the future. It is one of those things the County is not
identifying in their report and it is important that the City makes certain everyone out there .
is treated equally and one property owner isn't bearing the burden of impact fees of another
property owner. Everyone out there should equally share the impact fees.
Mayor Houston indicated the applicant was processing with the County. He asked what the
length of time would be if they annexed.
Mr. 'Peabody responded the City could do the pre-zoning, but this applicant was not co-
tenninus with our boundaries. There is one parcel between them and the City. The LAFCO
process takes at least a year. This area would also need to be annexed to Dublin San
Ramon Services District.
Mr. Ambrose indicated the DSRSD annexation would need to go through LAFCO.
em. Burton asked about the road itself. Could the City require a left turn lane?
Mr. Peabody responded the City would need to ask the County to require the developer to
put those facilities in the road. It would have to be a County decision to make.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
RE0ULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 461
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Cm. Burton asked if the County can do what they wanted?
Mr. Peabody explained that the City did not have jurisdiction over this project even though
the property is in our sphere of influence.
Mr. Ambrose indicated it would be to the County's financial detriment to allow
development to occur without paying the appropriate impact fees.
Patricia Curtin, Gagen, McCoy, McMal!on & Armstrong, 270 Front Street, Danville,
explained that she was helping process tl1is applic~~tion for the Quarry Lane School. The
applicant is now pursuing a different project called Reduced Grading Alternate. She has
been working with the City and looked forward to continuing to work with the City. She
indicated the sewer and water were not with Dublin San Ramon Services District. She
wished they were, but once they get approval from the County, they will annex to DSRSD.
In Phase I there are 200 students. Zone 7 says in regard to fireflow, that the water tank
above the hill is adequate for the existing building and Phase 1. In regard to traffic, if there
is a need for left lane pockets, they will be put in. The clnldren' s safety is important. They
already have 200 students waiting to get in.
. Cm. Lockhart asked what the total would be at build-out?
Ms. Curtin responded Phase I was an infant through elementary school of200, Phase II
would be a middle school of 600, and Phase ill would be a high school of 400. They are
already paying a TIP fee to the County and would not like to be asked to pay the impact fee
twice.
Mayor Houston wished the whole thing had gone through the City to begin with. He felt the
school was a good thing, but they have to be a complete good citizen of the community and"
have to pay for the things that everyone else has to pay. He agreed they should not be
double dipped.
, Cm. Lockhart sees this as an impact on the community and she has a real concern about
leap frog development. Water and sewer also concerns her. In order to move forward, she
agrees with the letter. She wanted to commend the Staff on its thoroughness. She felt this
project would greatly impact our community.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 462
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Cm. Burton asked if the school could make it if it only had Phase I? He did not want .
anymore than Phase I unless they were in the City. The safety and health of the parents and
students was also a concern ofl1is.
Ms. Curtin responded yes because they already have a school in Pleasanton. Then they
could wait to annex to the City and DSRSD for Phases II & III.
Cm. Burton asked if it was possible to have an agreement that those fees be paid up front?
-
Mr. Ambrose stated if the County was willing, the.... City could work out an arrangement.
Nielsen Ranch was processed in a joint process effort with the County before it was
annexed to the City. There are a number of possible alternatives.
Mayor Houston felt the school is a positive addition to the community, but they have to
follow our rules and not do it piecemeal.
Cm. Burton wanted to add several conditions to the motion wInch Cm. Lockhart stated she
could not support because she felt it was premature to get into the specifics.
Mayor Houston called for the question.
.
On motion of Cm. Lockhart, seconded by Mayor Houston, and by majority vote (Cm.
Burton voted no), the Council approved the response to the Draft Environmental Impact
Report and directed Staff to send the letter to the Alameda County Planning Commission.
....
REQUEST FROM TRI- V ALLEY BUSINESS COUNCIL FOR
FUNDING P ARTICIP A TION IN THE TRI- VALLEY VISIONING PROJECT
9:19 p.m. 8.3 (470-50)
Economic Development Director Reuel presented the Staff Report and advised that this
item is for the Council to consider a request from the Tri- Valley Business Council to
contribute to the Tri- Valley 2010 Visioning Project. The purpose of the project is to
coordinate planning efforts of the Tri- Valley Cities and Counties and establish a vision for
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
RE0.ULAR MEETING
October 6,1998
PAGE 463
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the area that promotes a healthy Tri- Valley economy and a better quality of life for area
residents.
Mr. Reuel advised that this item was not included in the 1998-99 Fiscal Year budget, and
will require a budget change in the amount of $20,000 from Unallocated Reserves in the
General Fund.
The total cost of the process will be $185,000 (public opinion survey $30,000,
Collaborative Economics consulting $149,000 and general expenses $15,000). The
Business Council has requested that each City and....County contribute $20,000. To date, the
Cities of Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore, Contra Costa County and Alameda County
have pledged that amount. The Town ofDanville will contribute $10,000. The Business
Council is responsible to raise funds to cover the balance needed.
Mr. Reuel indicated Tom O'Malley and Tim Hunt were present to answer any questions.
Cm. Burton felt it was an opportunity for cities in the valley to work together. He felt
$20,000 was a good deal.
. Marjorie Labar stated $20,000 is peanuts for the opportunity to stay involved in regional
issues. She has attended every single meeting of the ABAG Tri- Valley project. Dublin
doesn't exist in a vacuum. It is good for the small business owners. It is an important
decision to stay in touch with our neighbors.
Tim Hunt indicated it was a collaboration between governments, businesses, and citizens. It
would make the quality of life good in the valley today and better in the future by setting
benchmarks of what we want and how to get there. There will be a number of
subcommittees addressing everything from agriculture and open space to health and human
servIces.
Mayor Houston asked Mr. Hunt to outline what Collaborative Economics would be doing.
Mr. Hunt explained that Collaborative Economics is an economic finn that did "Economic
Vitality Study" and has worked allover the state. They identify your strengths and how to
take advantage of the strengths. They are well respected. It is a nine month schedule with
five all day meetings. It will be an intensely focused process.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REG U LAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 464
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Cm. Lockhart felt it was a long time in coming.
.
Tom Berugno from Citizen's Voice expressed ills concern about the issues of discretionary
funding. He felt there is a lot of good that could come from tins, but it needs to be
examined to see what it is all about. He is seeing ambience, cheese, wine, olives, and
growth. He senses there is something funny here. He will investigate tins like he did with
the Fanners' Market with integrity. He expressed a desire to debate Mr. Hunt.
Mayor Houston asked him to stay focus@d on the issue and not get personal. This was not a
commercial for anyone. It is about funding for the;, Tri- Valley Visioning Project.
.... .
Mr. Benigno felt he and the citizens needed to know more about this.
Mayor Houston stated these meetings would be open to the public so people can attend,
observe, and see the direction. There is no need for fear.
Mr. Reuel reminded the Mayor the City would need to delegate 25 people to participate in
the process.
Mayor Houston felt this was a good opportunity for a win-win situation in the valley. .
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Mayor Houston, and by unanimous vote, the
Council approved participation in the Tri- Valley Visioning Project ($20,000) and approved
the Budget Change Form.
...
LOCA TION FOR 1999 ST. PATRICK'S DAY FESTIVAL
9:35 p. m. 8.4 (950-40)
,Parks & Community Services Director Lowart stated at the direction of the City Council,
Amador Plaza Road was evaluated as a possible site for the 1999 St. Patrick's Day Festival.
After reviewing both locations, Regional Street and Amador Plaza Road, the St. Patrick's
Day Liaison Committee recommends that the Festival remain at the Regional Street location
for 1999.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 465
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On motion of Cm. Barnes, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council
approved the Regional Street location for the 1999 Festival.
...
DESIGNATION OF CITY COUNCIL
1998 AD-HOC AUDIT REVIEW SUBCOMl\1ITTEE
9:36 p. m. 8.5 (110-30)
=
Administrative Services Director Rankin advised that each year, independent financial
auditors review the City's Financial Records and produce an annual report. Prior to the
presentation of the report to the full City Council, an ad-hoc committee meets with the
Auditors to review the findings.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Barnes, and by unanimous vote, the Council
appointed Mayor Houston and Cm. Lockhart to meet with the City Auditors to review and
discuss the report for the period ending June 30, 1998.
..
. OTHER BUSINESS
Emerald Park Planning Meeting (610-05)
Mr. Ambrose indicated there would be another Emerald Park Planning Meeting October 7,
1998 at 7 p.m. in the Regional Meeting Room.
..
ABAG General Assemblv Meeting (140-10)
, Cm Lockhart announced she would be attending the ABAG General Assembly Meeting as
the alternate on Friday, October 30, 1998.
.
Cm Barnes indicated she had to attend the Affordable Housing meeting on that day.
+-
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
RE~ULAR HEETING
October 6,1998
PAGE 466
Domestic Violence Awareness Month (560-65)
.
Cm. Lockhart indicated that October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Tri-
Valley Haven was holding several events during the month to increase awareness.
Residents should call 449-5845 for more information about the events. She felt tills was
wortll\vhile for the valley,
....
$150_000 Loan to the Dublin Unifit1d School District (515-20)
Cm. Barnes asked if the Dublin Unified School District has responded to the City's offer of
a $150,000 loan.
Mr. Ambrose indicated he would be meeting with the Superintendent later tins week.
Mayor Houston asked if the response was positive?
Mr. Ambrose said it was positive and he would bring a report back to the Council.
..
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League of California Cities Conference (140-20)
Cm. Barnes indicated she would be making a short written report on the League of
California Cities Conference and tour she took. She had had great doubts about AutoN ation
and the theater, but what she saw in Orange County was two class acts. She feels tile
Entertainment Center will be a jewel for the City. She thanked Staff for setting up the tours.
They also toured some housing areas and saw some fantastic public art.
. "Cm. Lockhart stated the art was enjoyed by both the residents and those tI1at pass by. The
art was whimsical and fun.
...
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR MEETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 467
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Mayor's Trip to Japan (470-10)
Mayor Houston reported on ills trip to Japan and Taiwan at no taxpayer expense. It
consisted of a group of Alameda County Business people. He would like the opportunity to
work and expand the Sister City Association, He felt it could be beneficial to the City and
community culturally and econonlically. Fremont has 7 or 8 sister cities.
....
ADJOURNMENT
::
11.1
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at
9:45 p.m. and will be reconvened on the Mayor's birthday, October 20th.
Minutes prepared by Sandie Hart, Secretary.
.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
I~
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
VOLUME 17
REGULAR t'1EETING
October 6, 1998
PAGE 468
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