HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-02-1999 CC Adopted MinutesREGULAR MEETING - November 2, 1999
A regular meeting of the Dublin City Council was held on Tuesday,
November 2, 1999, in the Council Chambers of the Dublin Civic Center.
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m., by Mayor Houston.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Councilmembers Howard, McCormick, Zika, Vice Mayor
Lockhart and Mayor Houston.
ABSENT: None.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Houston led the Council, Staff and those present in the pledge of
allegiance to the flag.
INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES
7:07 p.m.3.1(700-10)
The following new employees were introduced: Al Chavarria, Sr. -
Community Safety Assistant, Michael Stella - Associate Civil Engineer,
Raed "Ray" Kuzbari - Associate Civil Engineer.
The Fire Prevention Division was introduced: Jim Ferdinand, Ed Laudani,
Russ Reid and Harold Martin.
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REQUEST FROM MRS. JOHN MONEGO
FOR TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AND CANDLELIGHT WALK
7:18 p.m.3.2(580-40)
Mayor Houston stated this will be tabled and taken up tomorrow or the
next day.
Mrs. Monego is proposing that a tree lighting ceremony and candlelight
walk be held on December 11 in memory of her husband, Deputy John
th
Paul Monego, who was killed while on duty on December 12, 1998. The
ceremony and walk would commence at 6:00 p.m., from the lobby of
Dublin Police Services. The Dublin High School Band will play holiday
music during the tree lighting ceremony and additional music would be
provided by the Alameda County Sheriff's Office Pipe Band. The walk
would be from the Civic Center to the Outback Restaurant and then
return to the Civic Center. A brief invocation by a member of the clergy
would be held in the Council Chambers, ending about 9:00 p.m.
The Staff Report prepared by Chief Thuman indicated that the only
expense for the City would be the cost of an MCE employee ($80) to open
and close the Civic Center. It is anticipated that minimal Staff time would
be involved in the event, due to the work of volunteers for the setup and
cleanup.
7:19 p.m.
Crosswalks/Pedestrian Safety (590-50)
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A speaker stated he was present on behalf of parents from Dublin
Elementary School to speak about the intersection of Shannon and San
Ramon Valley Boulevard (San Ramon Road). They ask that in the future
we talk about putting in yellow crosswalks instead of white and put some
yellow crosswalk signs on the poles that hold the signal up. This definitely
identifies the area as a major school zone. He thanked the City for the
crossing guard.
City Manager Ambrose stated the City has a Traffic Safety Committee,
which meets on a regular basis and if he will give his phone number to Mr.
Thompson, he will make sure the request is scheduled for this committee
to evaluate.
When asked, the speaker was identified as Michael Williams, 7922
Millbrook Avenue.
Community Thanksgiving Dinner (520-40)
Basil De Klerk addressed the City Council and stated he is a volunteer
director of Crosswinds Church. He announced the start of the first annual
Thanksgiving community dinner to be hosted by CrossWinds Church.
They would like to make this an annual affair for the community. There is
a need for this type of event primarily for the community and it is not just
for charity, but a community event for anyone who would like to be part of
an extended family and for anyone alone at this time of year. They
welcome everyone, rich or poor who would like to be part of this dinner.
An invitation was extended to the City Council and everyone in the
community.
It will be at CrossWinds Church on Thanksgiving day between 11:00 a.m.
and 3:00 p.m. They would like to see a representation of city officials and
community leaders. People can call 551-3300 for additional information;
reservations aren’t required.
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Maurine Behrend stated she is the coordinator of Tri-Valley Faith
Community Forum on Poverty and they try to serve those in need. She
was excited that Dublin has found a group that will be able to come up
with a Thanksgiving Dinner. Livermore started by serving 100 and they
had 1,600 last year.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Cm. McCormick pulled Item 4.11 from the Consent Calendar for
discussion.
7:26 p.m.Items 4.1 through 4.13
On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by
unanimous vote, the Council took the following actions:
Approved (4.1) Minutes of Regular Meeting of October 19, 1999;
Received (4.2 320-30) Report and accepted Statement of Investment Policy
for the City;
Received (4.3 320-30) City Treasurer's Investment Report for 1 Quarter
st
of FY 1999-2000, showing the City's investment portfolio totaling
$38,015,315 (market value), and with funds invested at an average yield of
5.452%;
Received (4.4 330-50) the Preliminary Financial Report for the Month of
September 1999;
Adopted (4.5 670-40)
RESOLUTION NO. 196 – 99
ACCEPTING STORM DRAIN EASEMENT FOR TRACT 6964
(DUBLIN RANCH, PHASE I - NEIGHBORHOOD M-3)
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and
RESOLUTION NO. 197 – 99
APPROVING QUITCLAIM OF PUBLIC SERVICE EASEMENT
FOR SIDEWALK IN TRACT 6964
(DUBLIN RANCH, PHASE I - NEIGHBORHOOD M-3)
Adopted (4.6 600-30)
RESOLUTION NO. 198 – 99
APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH JENNIFER LIN
REGARDING PROJECT REPORT AND ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT
FOR I-580/FALLON ROAD INTERCHANGE
Adopted (4.7 600-30)
RESOLUTION NO. 199 – 99
APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH CCS PLANNING AND ENGINEERING, INC.
FOR CONSULTING SERVICES
Adopted (4.8 600-30)
RESOLUTION NO. 200 – 99
APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH JENNIFER LIN,
ALAMEDA COUNTY SURPLUS PROPERTY AUTHORITY (ACSPA),
THE MISSION PEAK COMPANY AND GREENBRIAR LAND COMPANY
REGARDING DESIGN FOR I-580/TASSAJARA ROAD
INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS
Adopted (4.9 600-30)
RESOLUTION NO. 201 – 99
APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH CCS PLANNING AND ENGINEERING, INC.
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FOR CONSULTING SERVICES
I-580/TASSAJARA ROAD INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS DESIGN
Authorized (4.10 350-20) Staff to distribute bids for furniture as part of
the Civic Center Expansion and Renovation Project;
Approved (4.12 300-40) the Warrant Register in the amount of
$94,076.02;
Authorized (4.13 600-30) the City Manager to execute an amendment to
the Agreement with Vavrinek Trine Day & Co., LLP for the provision of an
Interim Administrative Services Director and to increase the contract by
$49,000.
Cm. McCormick pulled Item 4.11, change order for Emerald Glen Park, and
stated she had questions about this overrun. She asked if this money has
already been spent, or if it anticipated to be spent in the future.
Ms. Lichtenstein advised that part of the money has been spent. They are
looking at a completion date in mid January. They are negotiating with the
contractor for 2 major items. She reported that we’ve had to move our job
trailer 3 times because of road alignments.
City Manager Ambrose started we’ve had to do a lot of quick turnaround on
submittals. We’ve had trouble getting power out there. We’re trying to keep
the project on schedule, as was promised to the community.
On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by
unanimous vote, the Council approved (4.11 600-30) Change Order and
Budget Change Form related to amendment to Agreement with David L.
Gates and Associates, Inc., for the Emerald Glen Park, Phase I.
CLOSED SESSION
7:29 p.m.10.1 & 10.2
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The Council recessed to a closed session.
10.1 (640-30) Conference with Legal Counsel/Anticipated Litigation.
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9,
subdivision c: One Case.
10.2 (700-20) Conference with Labor Negotiator, Agency Negotiator
Richard C. Ambrose - Unrepresented Employee - Assistant City
Manager/Administrative Services Director, pursuant to Government Code
54957.6
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTION
At 8:40 p.m., the meeting reconvened with all Councilmembers present.
Mayor Houston announced that with regard to Item 10.1, the City Council
unanimously voted to file an application to intervene in an action. The
action, the defendants and other particulars shall, once the intervention
has commenced, be disclosed to any person upon inquiry unless to do so
would jeopardize the City's ability to conclude settlement negotiations to
its advantage.
PUBLIC HEARING - ARCHSTONE COMMUNITIES APARTMENTS
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONE FOR A 7.39 ACRE SITE LOCATED
ALONG DOUGHERTY ROAD, NORTH OF HOUSTON PLACE PA 99-019
8:41 p.m.6.1(450-30)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Associate Planner Andy Byde presented the Staff Report and advised that
this 7.39 acre project site is located along the eastern side of Dougherty
Road, immediately north of Houston Place. The proposed project includes
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177 rental apartment units with associated parking, landscaping and open
spaces.
The Planning Commission, at its meeting of October 26, adopted
th
resolutions recommending City Council approval of the Mitigated Negative
Declaration and PD Rezoning and Site Development Review.
Mr. Byde advised that the complex would include 354 on-site parking
spaces, consisting of 141 garage spaces, 36 carport spaces, and 177 guest
spaces.
The applicant intends to comply with the City's Inclusionary Housing
program by paying the in-lieu fee of $.75 per habitable square foot of the
project. Based upon a preliminary review of the floor plans, the habitable
square footage is 162,659 and the in-lieu fee would be approximately
$122,000.
Mr. Byde reviewed the General Plan Consistency and the Environmental
Review.
Cm. Zika stated he had questions for the Traffic Consultant. On page 28,
he noted that even though we have a policy regarding LOS D or better,
Dougherty Road/Dublin Boulevard and Scarlett Court/Dublin Boulevard
intersections show existing LOS to be level F which is gridlock, at 100%
capacity.
Gordon Lum with TJKM responded that what this is showing is with the
addition of approved projects. Existing plus approved plus pending.
Cm. Zika asked about what the level of service is now.
Mr. Lum responded Dougherty at Dublin Boulevard and Scarlett at Dublin
Boulevard would be F and F with approved projects being built in the City,
some built but not occupied, as well as pending with plans submitted.
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City Manager Ambrose stated the bottom of the page showed exactly the
impacts of the levels by increment.
Mr. Byde stated the intent of the table is to show the existing, plus those
in the pipeline and the project scenario shows existing plus this project.
Cm. Zika stated on the next page when you talk about peak hour trips in
the a.m. and p.m., he was concerned as this project seems to think adults
will primarily be there. Counting the number of bedrooms and assuming
only half commute during peak hours, he stated he did not understand
where we come up with 90 trips. He asked how they came up with 1/3.
Mr. Lum stated it is based on the number of dwelling units rather than
number of bedrooms. They use a number of trip generation studies and
used the average rate of 69 studies used throughout the United States.
These are nationwide averages.
Cm. Zika stated he did not feel these numbers are realistic.
Shyam Taggarsi, Archstone Communities, stated it is a 177 unit upscale
apartment complex and it will have a lot of amenities you typically find in
condominiums. There will be some attached garages. They worked with
staff to come up with an attractive project. Their proximity to BART and
trails will make this a good addition to the community. He stated he had
read the article in the newspaper today and they’ve talked internally about
affordable housing. They have agreed to provide 2 units with moderate
income and the rest they will pay fees in accordance with the Ordinance.
Cm. Zika asked which 2 units they would be providing.
Mr. Taggarsi responded it could be any of the units. They could be floating
units as they become available.
Cm. Zika stated he was looking more for 10% to 20% rather than only 2
units.
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Mr. Taggarsi stated the Ordinance allows either payment of in-lieu fees or
providing units.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she is personally happy with the 2 as this does
sets a precedence and we still have projects that we are looking at with in-
lieu fees. She likes the idea of balancing it out. She commented on the
looks of the project and stated she was particularly impressed that there is
no soundwall around it and no fencing all around it. This gives it an open
look. She asked where the gated area shows up.
Mr. Taggarsi stated even though this is a gated community they went out
of their way to not have a fenced in gated look. They have worked with
their acoustical engineers to raise the site and have a patio wall in order to
not have to build a soundwall. They have used the envelope of the
building itself to not have to build a fence. Only residents or guests will
actually come across the gates. Women residents appreciate this. This
prevents people from coming in to park there. This is a functional issue
and not snobbish.
Vice Mayor Lockhart asked about the traffic chart and the levels of service,
and if this is based on the roads without any improvements.
Mr. Lum stated this is correct.
Cm. McCormick asked if they have left room for public art.
Mr. Taggarsi stated they will work with Staff to come up with a plan to
have some kind of participation in public art. It will be something nice.
He thanked City Staff and commended them for doing a great job. He
stated they’ve really enjoyed working with the City.
Mr. Byde clarified that they will provide 2 units in addition to in-lieu fees.
City Manager Ambrose stated this will have to be part of an Affordable
Housing Agreement.
Mr. Taggarsi stated on the 2 units they don’t want to pay the $ .75. It will
be on the remaining 175 units.
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Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
Cm. Zika stated he felt 2 units is tokenism. He doesn’t like gated
communities and felt traffic that will dump on Dougherty will increase the
problem.
Mayor Houston stated he felt in order to improve the traffic situation,
projects like this have to go forward. With all the improvements at
completion, things will improve. This is a step in the right direction.
Documents should be amended to include 2 units with moderate income
and fees on the balance of the units.
On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by
majority vote, the Council adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 202 – 99
ADOPTING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR PA 99-019
ARCHSTONE COMMUNITIES APARTMENT PROJECT
and waived the reading and INTRODUCED the Ordinance.
Cm. Zika voted against the motion.
PUBLIC HEARING - UNDERGROUND UTILITY DISTRICT 99-1
DUBLIN BOULEVARD FROM 600' WEST OF CLARK AVENUE TO
SIERRA COURT
9:09 p.m.6.2(1020-30)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and
advised that this is the first of two public hearings regarding
establishment of an underground utility district on Dublin Boulevard from
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600' west of Clark Avenue to Sierra court. The cost of undergrounding
utilities will be paid by Rule 20A Funds. There will be some associated
costs such as installation of street lighting, which will be paid through the
Dublin Boulevard Widening project. A few of the properties in this
proposed District have overhead Cable TV services, which will need to be
undergrounded at the property owner's expense.
No testimony was entered by any member of the public relative to this
issue.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by
unanimous vote, the Council waived the reading and INTRODUCED the
Ordinance which indicated no protests were received.
PUBLIC HEARING - ACCEPTANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS
ON GOLDEN GATE DRIVE AND ST. PATRICK WAY;
CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE (CVC) ENFORCEMENT; AND
APPROVAL OF TRAFFIC CONTROLS ON ST. PATRICK WAY
9:11 p.m.6.3(590-40)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and
advised that St. Patrick Way is the connector road between Amador Plaza
Road and Golden Gate Drive, which was constructed as part of the I-
580/I-680 Interchange Improvements. This item would accept the
improvements for maintenance and allow the street to be opened. This
item would also approve installation of stop signs on Golden Gate Drive at
St. Patrick Way and approve enforcement of traffic regulations on St.
Patrick Way, including no parking zones.
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Mr. Thompson advised that traffic regulations that exist on St. Patrick
Way within the right-of-way that is held by the State are as follows: 1) a
stop sign for St. Patrick Way at Amador Plaza Road, which will be
superseded by a traffic signal once the hook ramps are open, which is
estimated to be within the next several months. This will be a Caltrans-
owned and maintained signal; and 2) the entire length of St. Patrick Way
is signed as a No Parking Zone. It is proposed that this No Parking Zone
be adopted by the City Council upon relinquishment of the right-of-way to
the City.
Mr. Thompson advised that a letter had been received from an Attorney
representing Crown Chevrolet requesting that no parking restrictions be
enforced until the freeway opens. Widths would have to be adjusted.
Caltrans estimates opening of the ramps in late December. The City could
defer no parking until the freeway ramps open.
Mayor Houston reported that the on ramp going north will be open by the
end of the year. The southbound off ramp will be March at best, then the
on-ramp will be about this time next year. This information came from
the Alameda County Transportation Authority.
Vice Mayor Lockhart asked if the barriers will be gone once the road is
open.
Mr. Thompson stated yes, these will be taken down.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated the issue is they will have less parking and
asked if they are looking at this for employee parking.
Mr. Thompson stated they ultimately will be moving out to the GM center,
but this is 10 to 12 months away.
Mayor Houston stated he felt the solution is the road is not as wide as we
would like, but there is not a whole lot of traffic so short term solution may
be parking on one side of the street. He would not like to see parking on
both sides. This would give some benefit to Crown. This could be a way to
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try and help them out. The City could re-evaluate this after March, if
necessary.
Vice Mayor Lockhart expressed agreement that this would be a good
compromise and would give them the side next to the facility to park, the
north side. No parking would be allowed on the south side.
Mr. Thompson stated we would eliminate for the right turn lane also.
No testimony was entered by any member of the public relative to this
issue.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
The City Council approved parking on the north side of St. Patrick Way
until the situation is re-evaluated when the off-ramp is opened.
On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by
unanimous vote, the Council adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 203 – 99
ACCEPTING IMPROVEMENTS CONSTRUCTED ON GOLDEN GATE DRIVE
AND ST. PATRICK WAY AS PART OF
I-580/I-680 INTERCHANGE CONSTRUCTION
and
RESOLUTION NO. 204 – 99
APPROVING ENFORCEMENT OF TRAFFIC REGULATIONS UNDER
CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE SECTION 21107.5
ST. PATRICK WAY
and
RESOLUTION NO. 205 – 99
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APPROVING INSTALLATION OF ALL-WAY STOP AT
INTERSECTION OF GOLDEN GATE DRIVE AND ST. PATRICK WAY
REPORT FROM VEHICLE DEALERSHIPS SIGNAGE COMMITTEE
9:17 p.m.7.1(400-30)
Community Development Director Eddie Peabody advised that this
Committee met on September 2 and September 23 to come up with
ndrd
opinions and any recommendations as to potential Sign Ordinance
changes as they might affect Vehicle Dealerships. The Committee was
composed of Vice Mayor Lockhart, Cm. Zika, Planning Commissioner
Hughes, representatives from the Dublin Chamber of Commerce,
Automobile Dealerships and a member of the public, Bruce Fiedler.
Staff suggested that the Council receive comments from Vice Mayor
Lockhart and Cm. Zika on the subject and then give direction to Staff to
proceed with Sign Ordinance changes for Vehicular Signs as identified at
the June 1, 1999 City Council meeting. Also, the City Council should
direct Staff to enforce present Sign Regulations for Automobile Vehicle
Dealerships without complaint and provide direction with respect to the
following Temporary Promotional issues and options:
BALLOONS
1)Prohibit all balloons 15" in diameter within Commercial, Industrial and
Residential zones.
2)Allow balloons over 15" in diameter for grand openings or a limited
number of special events only.
3)Make no changes to the existing Ordinance.
DEALERSHIP SIGNAGE
1)Require each dealership to have a Master Sign Program that addresses
both permanent and promotional signage.
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2)Require an annual permit for temporary signs (monthly and special
promotional time frame) with specific standards on number of
pennants, banners, etc., allowed.
3)Prohibit temporary promotional signage for Vehicle Dealership other
than banners presently allowed by the Ordinance.
4)Enforce the existing Ordinance.
NEW SIGN ORDINANCE CHANGES
1) Instruct Staff to prepare specific Ordinance Amendments for public
hearings.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she had written a brief report on her feelings
of the impact from the dealers. The issue of temporary signage focused
mainly on balloons at the first meeting. Their main concern was attracting
business to their location. Several ideas were discussed. It was a
consensus that there is nothing wrong with the Ordinance as written, but
maybe they need to enforce it amongst themselves. She stated she wanted
to compliment everyone on maintaining a cordial attitude.
Cm. Zika stated he was surprised that none of the dealers were present
tonight.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated as a committee they did not have a
recommendation, but rather the committee was to discuss and get
feedback from the auto dealers. They did not see this as an issue. She
advised that she had a stronger recommendation and would like to see
balloons removed from the roofs of everything. She did not hear anything
about it making a big difference in their lives. She did not hear any
compelling or convincing evidence that balloons should stay. Residents
have a concern about the image of our City with balloons up. She
recommended the City not allow balloons.
Cm. Zika stated he concurred. We should entertain some kind of a sign
program. Some dealers are in very difficult locations and probably need to
put up a bigger sign and we should be sensitive to this.
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Mayor Houston stated he was glad to hear them both say get the balloons
off the roofs. We need to be specific in giving direction. He wanted to call
it inflatable devices. If we get them off the tops of the buildings, this will
eliminate about 80%. Also, he stated he felt that if it is tethered on the
ground, this is okay. This is very seasonal and someone could be
permitted 2 weeks out of the year to have it on the ground. If they want
Godzilla, he will be on the ground. Nothing should ever be allowed on the
roof and what is allowed would be for 2 weeks out of the year on a permit
basis.
Vice Mayor Lockhart commented that Christmas tree lots are generally
open longer than 2 weeks. Streamers and banners also need to be
addressed.
A consensus on inflatable devices was that Staff should conduct proactive
enforcement. They must have a permit and will be allowed 3 weeks out of
the year maximum. They must be on the ground tethered, not flying
around. Three weeks per year total per usage allowed.
Cm. Zika stated he felt this will be difficult to enforce.
Mayor Houston stated we will enforce it carefully. The 3 weeks out of the
year, they can split any way they want. This applies to anybody.
The Council discussed other promotional signage such as streamers, etc.
A slide was displayed showing Godzilla and a lot of streamers. Crown
Chevrolet has had Used Car bunting signs up forever.
Mr. Peabody stated the temporary promotional permit is for 30 days and
then it has to come down for 15 days and another permit would be
required to put them back up. Streamers are used as permanent signage.
Staff asked for direction in dealing with promotional signage.
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Cm. Zika stated he felt with regard to streamers, he would like to see them
go. He stated he doesn’t have a big problem with the Used Car signs as
long as they are kept up but doesn’t know how they are kept clean.
Cm. McCormick commented she felt these look like permanent signs.
Mayor Houston stated he did not feel this is the image that Crown
Chevrolet or anyone in the City wants. We have no control of what they
put on the banners or signs. When it says used cars over and over and
over, this doesn’t add anything.
Cm. Zika stated if we have proactive enforcement, they would have to
come down for 15 days.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated if they were used for something special, this
would not be like permanent signs.
Cm. Zika commented he felt they lose their effectiveness from being up so
long.
Mayor Houston discussed regular signs that go by a formula with so many
feet on a building. Utilizing every single light standard at a facility is
overkill and is not attractive at all.
Mayor Houston stated he liked Cm. Zika's suggestion that streamers from
pole to pole be eliminated. Not having the streamers and monitoring the
balloons will have a big impact.
Cm. McCormick asked what’s wrong with having them submit a master
sign program for the year.
Mr. Peabody stated one suggestion is some cities have a program where
you sit down with a dealer and a certain kind of program and you wrap it
up all in one package with an annual permit. It takes a lot more work on
the part of Staff, but at least they have a program.
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Mayor Houston stated he felt we could look at this during Goals &
Objectives in February. This could be a goal we could work towards. We
also need to look at the coverage some businesses use on their windows
and vehicle signs.
Mr. Peabody proposed that Staff will bring back ordinances based on
Council direction such as signs on vehicles.
Mayor Houston asked if dealers came in with a master program for the
year, could we suggest what we would and wouldn’t like to see on the
signs.
Ms. Silver stated we cannot restrict what they say.
Mayor Houston stated he felt the Council was making big steps tonight.
Eliminate streamers, eliminate balloons on top of roofs and limit the time
balloons can be tethered on the ground.
Mr. Peabody advised that a regular promotional permit allows 30 days and
then off for 15 days.
Mayor Houston clarified that 3 weeks total would be allowed for tethered
inflatable devices.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she felt the 30 days up/15 days down should
be reversed to 15 days up and 30 days down.
Cm. McCormick stated she doesn’t like the small balloons. We should
clean up the City.
Mayor Houston stated he did not have a problem with the smaller, or what
he calls party balloons.
Cm. McCormick suggested that one balloon per car be allowed.
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Mayor Houston clarified that all balloons, no matter what size, have to be
attached to the ground.
Mr. Peabody asked about balloons tethered on the ground that may be
taller than the building.
Mayor Houston stated he recognized that the great pumpkin and Santa
Claus could be higher.
Cm. Zika stated he doubted they will give up ground space for balloons
instead of cars.
Mr. Peabody summarized that all balloons, whether big or small, need to
be tethered to the ground and are allowed for 3 weeks per year. Inflatable
devices are subject to permit. With a temporary promotional sign permit
you can put up for 15 days and then down for 30 and then another permit
can be obtained for 15 days. No streamers or pennants are allowed. Pole
signs would be treated the same as temporary promotional signs. Staff
should be proactive with enforcement.
Mr. Peabody stated Staff will prepare appropriate ordinance amendments
and bring back to the Planning Commission and then to the City Council.
Mayor Houston stated he felt the City is always willing to look at ways to
help businesses make things better with sign programs.
Mr. Peabody stated the committee looked at possibly putting in small
reader boards or directional signs.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated they discussed the fact that if there were
concerns or problems with their signage they could come in and discuss
this with Staff.
MEASURE D INFLATION FACTOR INCREASE
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9:56 p.m.8.1(810-60)
Assistant to the City Manager Julie Carter presented the Staff Report and
stated this item summarizes the proposed Measure D cost of living
increase and describes the process by which it will be considered by the
Alameda County Board of Supervisors. If the Board of Supervisors
ultimately approves the Measure D increase, it is anticipated than an
additional $7,000 in revenues would need to be generated by Dublin
ratepayers.
Ms. Carter stated if approved, the CIP increase is likely to be in the range
of 2 to 4%, which would add an additional $ .12 to $ .24 surcharge to
each ton of garbage deposited at the County landfills. Staff anticipates
that if the CPI increase is approved, approximately $7,000 in additional
revenues would need to be generated by Dublin's ratepayers. It is likely
that more than half of this would be returned to the City to help support
the City's Recycling programs.
Ms. Carter advised that approximately 65% of the Measure D fees paid by
Dublin ratepayers were returned to the City in Fiscal Year 1998-99.
The City recently received a letter from the Oro Loma Sanitary District
accompanied by a Resolution opposing the proposed Measure D, CPI
increase. Oro Loma is asking other local jurisdictions in Alameda County
to support and assist their efforts by passing similar Resolutions or writing
to the Board of Supervisors.
Ms. Carter presented options for Council consideration, including:
1)The first option would be to do nothing. This would be the logical choice
if the Council is not opposed to the increase.
2)The second option would be to ask Staff to draft a Resolution similar to
that of Oro Loma, or to write a letter to the Alameda County Board of
Supervisors expressing the City's opposition to the increase. The City
may also wish to write to the Recycling Board and the ACWMA. This
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option could be seen as a preemptive measure to act while the proposal
is still in a draft stage and before the issue has come before the Board
of Supervisors.
3)Option three would be to wait to draft the letter or Resolution until the
new Recycling Plan has been approved and ACWMA staff has officially
requested the increase from the Board of Supervisors. The Council may
wish to wait until the issue comes before the Board of Supervisors and
the ultimate decision regarding the increase is considered.
Cm. Zika asked if the City Council is in agreement with him against this
increase. He indicated he did not understand why they couldn’t do a
combination of options 2 and 3.
City Manager Ambrose stated they could do both.
Cm. McCormick stated she felt this is premature.
Mayor Houston pointed out once they get rolling on something like this, it
is difficult to stop. They have reserves and have money and yet they want
a COLA.
Vice Mayor Lockhart advised that on the Board, there are 5 elected
officials and 6 who are appointed by the Board of Supervisors. They made
sure they have representatives from every part of the County. She did
some research with regard to their reasoning. She attended some
meetings and spoke to Executive Director of WMA. WMA, through the
Recycle Board really do have an incredible number of programs they are
supporting. They work with different non-profit organizations and she
discussed some of these. Sixty five percent of the money that comes from
Dublin ratepayers comes back to Dublin in the form of money we provide
as subsidies to businesses in our community to support recycling. As we
move along the recycle system and recycle more of the wastestream, what
they are finding is once we get the easy materials out, we need to work on
the harder materials. This is more expensive to get the harder materials
recycled, such as demolition materials for rebuilds. Sample ordinances
are being put together to give to the cities. The State is demanding that we
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meet goals because we need space in landfills. She has not heard enough
of the arguments to decide yet. There is no plan yet. She recommended
that we not say no until we know what we are saying no to. She suggested
we not do a knee jerk reaction when there may be valid reasons for doing
it.
Cm. Zika stated he felt getting 65 cents back on the $1 is not good
economics. His basic concern is they are asking for the money before they
know how they are going to spend it. What programs are they planning to
put into place and how much will they cost? He would rather see it
proceed this way rather than them saying give us the money and then we
will decide how to spend it.
Vice Mayor Lockhart suggested that he attend the meetings where he
could get information related to all the programs they support.
Cm. Zika stated he would rather send a letter stating we are concerned
about the COLA when there is no plan in place and ask what are they
going to use it for. When a plan is submitted, we may consider a COLA
adjustment.
Mayor Houston questioned why it has to be a COLA instead of them
submitting plans and then ask for a certain amount. He suggested that a
letter be sent saying we want to see what their programs are. We won’t
say NO, but we want to know what we’re buying. Sixty five cents on the
dollar is not that great. We want to know what we’re buying before we
express a yes or no. We want a lot more detail. After they present a plan,
we will talk. Mayor Houston felt they really need to make a case.
Cm. Zika stated he would like to send it to the Recycling Board before it
goes to the WMA.
City Manager Ambrose clarified the concerns of the Council as being, what
does the recycling plan consist of, how do they plan to use existing
reserves, what programs are supported and what are the costs.
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COST SHARING FOR CONSULTANT SERVICES FOR FIRE STATION
PROTOTYPE
10:10 p.m.8.2(600-40)
Parks & Facilities Development Manager Herma Lichtenstein presented the
Staff Report and advised that a Fire Station Prototype Design and
Programming Study will provide the City with design options for new fire
stations to be built in the City of Dublin that meet Alameda County Fire
Department requirements. The City's proposed share of the cost for
services is $22,771.67 and sufficient funds are available in the FY 1999-
2000 Budget.
Ms. Lichtenstein discussed the seven phases to the project: Start Up;
Data Collection; Programming & Data Analysis; Design Alternatives and
Review; Schematic Prototypes; and Final Report.
San Leandro had some immediate needs, so they needed to move faster
than we were able to get the agreement together.
The Council indicated they felt the economy of scale was great and this
was a very good idea.
On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by
unanimous vote, the Council adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 206 – 99
AUTHORIZING SHARING OF COSTS WITH
CITY OF SAN LEANDRO AND COUNTY OF ALAMEDA
FOR DESIGN OF FIRE STATION PROTOTYPE
and authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement.
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November 2, 1999
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REVIEW OF CITY ENTRANCES/LANDSCAPING FOR THE
DUBLIN BOULEVARD WIDENING PROJECT BETWEEN DOUGHERTY
ROAD
AND SCARLETT DRIVE, HACIENDA DRIVE AND TASSAJARA ROAD
10:14 p.m.8.3(530-20)
Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and
explained that this item is for the City Council to review schematic
landscape plans for the continuation of the existing landscaping for Dublin
Boulevard between Dougherty Road and Scarlett Drive. Also to be
reviewed will be enhancements to the Dublin Boulevard landscaping, as
well as the median entrances to the City from I-580 at Hacienda Drive and
from Tassajara Road
The plans for both Hacienda Drive and Tassajara Road are primarily the
same basic design as the Dublin Boulevard entrance, consisting of colorful
plantings in the median, pavers at the median curb edges, and cut-outs in
the pavers for trees and color when the width is four feet or less. Trees
will be planted 20' apart along the center of the median. At Tassajara
Road, a City of Dublin granite entry sign will be constructed in the median
approximately 1,000 feet north of I-580, with pilasters at both ends of the
signage.
David Gates gave a presentation and showed illustrations of what is being
proposed.
The proposal is to incorporate pilaster and lattice elements to all three
project sites. The pilasters will have a stucco finish and measurements of
16" x 16" x 30" high. Attached to the pilasters is a 3' high arched metal
lattice with bronze finish. Flowering vines will be planted next to the
lattices to provide more colors in the median. The pilaster and lattice
feature is proposed to be placed between the trees along the median of
Hacienda Drive and Tassajara Road and continuously connected along the
center of the Dublin Boulevard median for approximately 50'. This
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pilaster/lattice element provides a pleasing entry feature at the City's
gateways and thus, gives a nice impression of the City. The cost of adding
the pilaster/lattice element to the Dublin Boulevard landscaping project is
$26,220. For Hacienda Drive and Tassajara Road, the cost will be borne
by the developers required to enhance the gateways at these two locations.
Two additional features for possible future corridor enhancement are also
proposed. Just east of the Dublin Boulevard/Scarlett Drive intersection is
the future Iron Horse Trail crossing. At the northern side of Dublin
Boulevard at its junction with the Iron Horse Trail, a trail-head/seating
area is a natural spot to relax and would be a nice focal point along this
busy street. A circular bench or series of benches would be protected from
behind by large flowering Robinia trees. An art object or sculpture could
be located in the center of the circle. Colorful plantings and toned
concrete or pavers would complete this special area.
Mr. Thompson advised that this focal point feature would be outside the
street right-of-way and would thus require the acquisition of property from
Union Pacific and/or Alameda County to build the streetscape. Excluding
right-of-way cost, this feature is estimated at an additional $37,200 and is
not part of the Dublin Boulevard project, but has been identified as a
potential future corridor enhancement.
Specifically, Staff sought direction on:
1)Should the pilaster/lattice enhancement be included in the three
projects?
2)Should Staff pursue a landscape/hardscape enhancement at the Dublin
Boulevard trailhead to the Iron Horse Trail?
3)Defer consideration of landscaping of the remnant parcel at the
southeast corner of Dublin Boulevard and Scarlett Court, until the
City's redevelopment feasibility study is completed.
The cost of landscaping for the Dublin Boulevard Widening project is
included within the Capital Improvement Project budget and is being paid
for by Eastern Dublin Traffic Impact Fees. The entry landscaping for
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Hacienda Drive and Tassajara Road is part of the road construction to be
performed by the developers, as a condition of their development.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated they talked about how to make the existing
signs match up with the new signs and facings.
Mr. Gates stated they proposed a fractured ridgeline. What was proposed
has now become a more contemporary format.
Vice Mayor Lockhart asked if we still propose putting on a granite facing.
Mr. Thompson stated yes, this could be a future capital project.
The Council indicated they liked the ideas proposed.
On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by
unanimous vote, the Council agreed that: a) pilaster/lattice enhancement
should be included in the three projects; b) Staff should pursue a
landscape/hardscape enhancement at the Dublin Boulevard trailhead to
the Iron Horse Trail; and c) consideration of landscaping of the remnant
parcel at the southeast corner of Dublin Boulevard and Scarlett Court
should be deferred until the City's redevelopment feasibility study is
completed.
OTHER BUSINESS
10:27 p.m.
Alameda County Mayors Conference (140-15)
Mayor Houston advised that he cannot attend the November 10 Mayors
th
Conference being held in Piedmont at their community hall.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she would not be able to attend either, as this
is her birthday.
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Development (470-10)
Vice Mayor Lockhart asked what is going on at the corner of Amador
Valley Boulevard and Dougherty Road. There is a trailer and big blue bins
on the 7-Eleven lot.
Mr. Ambrose stated Staff will check into this tomorrow morning.
Iron Horse Trail (930-30)
Mayor Houston asked if Mr. Thompson had had a chance to go out to the
Iron Horse Trail.
Mr. Thompson reported that what happened after the rain was that a lot of
gravel washed down over the pathway and this was the material on the
creek side. The asphalt was in good shape.
Pool Slide (250-30)
City Manager Ambrose advised that he thought the pool slides would be in
about Memorial Day. This is typically when we open the pool to the
public.
Computers in Schools Project (515-60)
Mayor Houston advised that he had gotten a nice letter from the Women's
Club advising that they are donating $3,500 to the school technology fund.
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He may be out of state on November 18, but if not, he will accept it.
th
They’ve done a wonderful job.
Veterans Day Activities (950-40)
Mayor Houston advised there will be a Veteran’s Day parade in Pleasanton
on November 11. He will be in Danville at an event that day and stated
th
he hoped that one of the Councilmembers could be in Pleasanton that day.
Vice Mayor Lockhart indicated she would be happy to attend.
Iron Horse Trail (930-30)
Vice Mayor Lockhart asked if she heard correctly that the City of
Pleasanton has designated $135,000 for the Iron Horse Trail to Dublin.
Mr. Thompson stated we are doing the combined trail with them and it
goes past City Hall at the Alamo Canal.
Mayor Houston stated Kay Ayala told him about this and it was a
suggestion for some funds on a list they were considering making to some
other agency.
Cm. Zika stated CMA is considering putting this on a list.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated on a 4-0 vote they supported this.
Mr. Thompson stated he thought this is Clean Air money for the next
phase.
The Council indicated that this is appreciated.
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Mayor Houston stated Kay Ayala told him about this and it was a suggestion for some
funds on a list they were considering making to some other agency.
Cm. Zika stated CMA is considering putting this on a list.
Vice Mayor Lockhart stated on a 4-0 vote they supported this.
Mr. Thompson stated he thought this is Clean Air money for the next phase.
The Council indicated that this is appreciated.
ADJOURNMENT
11.1
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned
at 10:$4 p.m.
ATTEST:
/9layor Pro ~en~pore
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November 2, ~1999
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