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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-21-1999 CC Adopted MinutesREGULAR MEETING - December 21, 1999 A regular meeting of the Dublin City Council was held on Tuesday, December 21, 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. CLOSED SESSION 7:07 p.m.10.1(640-30) The Council recessed to a closed session to consult with Legal Counsel on Anticipated Litigation. Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision c: One Case. REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTION At 7:17 p.m., the meeting was reconvened with all Councilmembers present. Mayor Houston read the following statement: "On November 2, 1999, the City Council reported that it had authorized its City Attorney to intervene in pending litigation, Sacramento Superior Court # 98C502670 and 985C02671. The Council is pleased to report that the City’s concerns were CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 643 addressed through the cooperation of parties to the litigation without the necessity of intervention. As a result of that cooperation, the City has entered into two memoranda of understanding. One is with the Dublin San Ramon Services District and is entitled “Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Cooperative Implementation of Agreement to Settle Water Litigation”. This MOU describes the actions that DSRSD and the City will take to assure coordinated land use and water service planning efforts for the City and its Eastern Sphere of Influence. The other MOU is with Windemere Ranch Partners and Windemere BLC Land Company and is entitled “Memorandum of Understanding Regarding Traffic Mitigation”. This MOU assures the City that funds will be available to mitigate the traffic impacts that development of the Windemere property in Dougherty Valley will have in the City of Dublin. Copies of both documents are available from the City Clerk." INTRODUCTION OF NEW EMPLOYEES 7:18 p.m.3.1(700-10) Two new employees were introduced. Vivian Lau, Recreation Technician and Regina Adams, Assistant Planner (Code Enforcement). YOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS 7:21 p.m.3.2(110-30) Mayor Houston stated two members of the YAC have resigned and per the Bylaws, the alternate shall fill vacancies for an unexpired portion of the term. Consequently, alternate Shelly Kahn automatically replaces one of the vacant positions. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 644 Mayor Houston stated he recommends the appointment of Jori King from Wells Middle School, 7 grade to the YAC, and the appointment of Brittany th Brickell, Wells Middle School 8 grade as the alternate. th On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by unanimous vote, the Council confirmed the Mayor's appointments to the Youth Advisory Committee: (Jori King and Brittany Brickell as alternate). Alternate Shelly Kahn automatically replaces one of the vacant positions. CITY COUNCIL ORGANIZATION/COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS/ASSIGNMENTS 7:22 p.m.3.3(110-30) Mayor Houston requested that the Council's current list of appointments be agendized for discussion. The current list is: MAYOR’S APPOINTMENT/ASSIGNMENT LIST December, 1998 to Current COMMITTEEREPRESENTATIVE Alameda County Housing AuthorityMcCormick Alameda County Library Advisory CommissionMcCormick/Zika (Alternate) Alameda County Mayors’ ConferenceHouston Alameda County Waste Management Authority JPALockhart/McCormick (Alternate) Association of Bay Area Governments General AssemblyMcCormick/Zika (Alternate) Citizen/Organization of the YearHouston/Howard Congestion Management AuthorityZika/McCormick (Alternate) Community TV BoardMcCormick (+ Valerie Barnes) Cable TV Franchise Renewal CommitteeLockhart Downtown Study Task ForceLockhart DSRSD Liaison CommitteeHouston/Lockhart DSRSD Water Task ForceLockhart Dublin Pride Week Committee Lockhart/Howard Dublin Unified School District Liaison CommitteeHouston/Lockhart CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 645 East Bay Division/League of CA CitiesHoward/McCormick (Alternate) East Bay Regional Park District Liaison CommitteeLockhart Job Training Partnership Act/PICZika League of CA Cities Voting Delegate & AlternateLockhart/McCormick League of CA Cities Legislative Delegate ProgramHoward League of CA Cities Community Services Committee McCormick League of CA Cities 2000 Conference Planning CommitteeMcCormick Livermore-Amador Valley Transit Authority JPAHouston/Lockhart “ “ “ “ “ “Zika (Alternate) Pleasanton City Liaison CommitteeHouston/Lockhart San Ramon City Liaison CommitteeHouston/Lockhart Tassajara Valley GPA/EIR CommitteeHouston Transportation Committee I-580/Hwy 84/AltamontHouston Tri-Valley Affordable Housing CommitteeZika/McCormick (Alternate) Tri-Valley Transportation CouncilLockhart/Houston (Alternate) Vehicle Dealership Sign Advisory CommitteeLockhart/Zika Zone 7 Liaison CommitteeHouston/Lockhart City Clerk Kay Keck advised that there was some question about who actually was on the Dublin Pride Week Committee. The list shows Lockhart/Howard, but Staff thought it was actually Howard/McCormick. The Council confirmed that Howard/McCormick serve on this committee. On motion of Cm. Zika, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council confirmed the appointment list with the one change noted. SELECTION OF VICE MAYOR 7:24 p.m.3.4(610-20) CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 646 In 1996, the City Council established a policy whereby a member of the Council would be selected in December of each year to serve as Vice Mayor for a period of one year. In the absence of the Mayor, the Vice Mayor would become Mayor Pro Tempore and would assume the temporary responsibilities of the Mayor. Mayor Houston stated he desired to keep the current Vice Mayor in this position. On motion of Mayor Houston, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by unanimous vote, the Council selected Vice Mayor Lockhart to continue in the position of Vice Mayor until December, 2000. APPOINTMENT TO ALAMEDA COUNTY MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT 7:25 p.m.3.5(110-30) The City recently received a letter from the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District advising that Dr. Harvey Scudder's term of office will expire on January 2, 2000. Staff has spoken with Dr. Scudder who expressed his willingness to serve an additional term. In fact, Dr. Scudder indicated that he will assume the position of President of the Board in January. This association represents 55 agencies in the State of California. On motion of Mayor Houston, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 228 – 99 MAKING AN APPOINTMENT TO THE ALAMEDA COUNTY MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 647 (HARVEY I. SCUDDER TO TERM ENDING JANUARY 2, 2002) Gift for Computers for Schools Project (515-60) Dave Burton addressed the Council and stated it was a pleasant moment that he was able to be here for the program Mayor Houston started with computers in the schools and he understood they are getting a good response. One computer for every 3 students is the goal. The Rotary Club has different ways of raising money, including fireworks sales, and as a result of their efforts, he presented a $1,000 check to contribute to the DPIE computer program. Mayor Houston thanked Dave and the Rotary Club. We have about 186 brand new computers in the schools so far. Thanks to everyone. CONSENT CALENDAR 7:28 p.m.Items 4.1 through 4.17 Vice Mayor Lockhart pulled Items 4.3, 4.5 and 4.6. Mr. Ambrose pulled Item 4.2. 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 December 7, and Special th Meeting of December 10; th Authorized (4.4 600-35) Staff to advertise Contract 00-01, Downtown Street Light Additions, for bids; Adopted (4.7 350-20) CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 648 RESOLUTION NO. 229 – 99 AWARDING PURCHASE ORDER FOR STREET BANNER REPLACEMENTS TO DEKRA-LITE INDUSTRIES, INC. ($7,725.60) Accepted (4.8 150-70) gift of $6,228 from the Tri-Valley Community Fund; directed Staff to prepare formal acknowledgment to donor; and approved the Budget Change Form; Adopted (4.9 600-35) RESOLUTION NO. 230 – 99 AWARDING CONTRACT 99-14 MEDIAN PAVER REPAIR TO WSP TRUCKING, INC. ($84,262.50) Authorized (4.10 600-35) Staff to solicit bids for Arterial Landscaping Improvements; Adopted (4.11 600-50) RESOLUTION NO. 231 – 99 APPROVING MASTER AGREEMENT ADMINISTERING AGENCY-STATE AGREEMENT FOR FEDERAL/STATE FUNDED PROJECTS WITHIN THE CITY OF DUBLIN and authorized the Public Works Director to execute Master Agreement and any subsequent project related supplemental agreements/forms; Received (4.12 330-50) a Preliminary Financial Report for the month of November, 1999; Approved (4.13 600-35) Change Order#27 ($48,070) with Goodland Landscape Construction, Inc., for Emerald Glen Park, Phase I, Contract 99-04; CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 649 Accepted (4.14 600-35) improvements under Contract 99-09, Shannon Center HVAC System, and authorized $5,599 payment to Breeze Air Systems; Authorized (4.15 600-35) Staff to advertise Contract 99-15, Dublin Swim Center Waterslide Installation for bids; Approved (4.16 600-30) agreements for Heritage & Cultural Arts Programming Assessment with AMS Planning and Research and Lynne Baer, and approved the Budget Change Form; Approved (4.17 300-40) the Warrant Register in the amount of $2,597,720.76. Item 4.3 Chief Thuman thanked the Valley Community Health Center on behalf of Dublin Police Services their donation of $1,000. This will enable DPS to expand some programs in place. He stated Corina Orias was present on behalf of the VCHC and that he has worked with her for the last 6 or 8 months on community issues. She is very supportive of our programs. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council accepted (4.3 150-70) $1,000 gift from Valley Community Health Center; approved the Budget Change Form; and directed Staff to prepare a formal acknowledgment to the donor. Item 4.2 Chief Thuman stated he also thanked the Altamont Cruisers for their donation of $1,000. They will purchase a new McGruff outfit. The current outfit is 17 years old, which is about 119 doggie years. Mr. Jones stated it is good to put money back into the community. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 650 On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by unanimous vote, the Council accepted (4.2 150-70) $1,000 grant from the Altamont Cruisers; approved the Budget Change Form; and directed Staff to prepare a formal acknowledgment to the donor. Vice Mayor Lockhart pulled Item 4.5 and asked when we talk about the developer impact fee funds in the financial statement, these are the monies that have been held for 5 years. Do we deduct for administrative services? Mr. Ambrose responded no, the costs for administration are included. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council received (4.5 390-20)the Annual Report of Developer Impact Fee Funds Deposits Pursuant to Government Code Sections 66001, 66006 and 66008 (AB 1600) and adopted RESOLUTION NO. 232 – 99 MAKING FINDINGS REGARDING UNEXPENDED IMPACT FEES FOR FISCAL YEAR 1998-99 Vice Mayor Lockhart pulled Item 4.6 and asked about which two sculptures they are. Lynne Baer explained which sculptures they are. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by unanimous vote, the Council authorized (4.6 600-30) the Mayor to execute amendments to agreements for the temporary displays of sculpture at the Dublin Civic Center ("Sirius" by Peter Voulkos and "Steel Watercolor" by Fletcher Benton); Mayor Houston announced that Item 6.6 would be next on the agenda. PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 651 CHAPTER 8.84 SIGN REGULATIONS OF THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE PERTAINING TO VEHICLE SIGNS AND TEMPORARY PROMOTIONAL SIGNAGE RELATED TO BALLOONS, PENNANTS AND STREAMERS PA 98-058 7:37 p.m.6.6(400-30) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Community Development Director Eddie Peabody presented the Staff Report and advised that this proposed Ordinance would amend Chapter 8.84 of the DMC (Zoning Ordinance) to revise that portion relating to Temporary Promotional Signs, Vehicular Signs, and to include provisions for Balloons, Pennants and Streamers. The Council provided direction: 1.Balloons - prohibit balloons smaller than 15" in diameter in Commercial and Industrial Zones. 2.Allow balloons and inflatable devices over 15" in diameter, subject to a Zoning Clearance, for grand openings and promotional events for up to 21 calendar days per year only. No structure mounted balloons should be permitted. 3.Prohibit streamers and pennants. 4.Change the temporary promotional sign permit time to 15 days of display time with no new permit for a 30-day period. These amendments, if adopted, will curtail the use of large balloons on buildings, limit time frames for their use, prohibit pennants and streamers, prohibit vehicles used primarily for advertising purposes and shorten the length of time temporary promotional pennants may be displayed to 15 days. Most affected will be automotive dealerships, certain retail uses and the use of vehicles by some businesses primarily for advertising purposes. It will have an impact on Staff in that enforcement of these new regulations will be on a non-complaint basis. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 652 Several photos of examples were displayed. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on December 14 and th made their recommendations. They felt that 21 days may be somewhat limiting. They also requested proactive enforcement. In the last year we have had 26 businesses apply for large balloons. Mr. Peabody stated the changes proposed also relate to traffic safety and considerations. Public safety with the tethering of balloons and flying in the air there are considerations and findings can be made from a safety standpoint. Cm. Zika asked about the Planning Commission's comment of 21 days being too limited. Did they offer any suggestions? Mr. Peabody stated no, but they requested that maybe a longer period of time might be more adequate and should be looked at. Mayor Houston requested that Mr. Peabody go through the definitions. Mr. Peabody stated balloons are inflatable devices used for advertising purposes. We have had flying mattresses and other devices that are inflated that are not necessarily balloons. Streamers and pennants were as shown in the slides – strings of flying devices that are attached to poles. Pole banners – there were no recommendations made specific to these. These would not be prohibited. Cm. McCormick stated they discussed balloons tethered to the ground that were higher than the building. Mr. Peabody stated Staff addressed this and that the bottom of the balloon would have to touch the ground. There would be no height limit. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated they talked about those like Santa that are quite large and they do stand on the ground. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 653 Mayor Houston stated he thought they were referring more to the smaller balloons. You can attach a string to the ground but it can be very high. Vice Mayor Lockhart and Cm. McCormick both stated their understanding was these would not be allowed. Mr. Peabody stated this was also Staff’s understanding. Pat Costello, owner of Crown Chevrolet stated he has a problem with this whole ordinance and the way the committee was put together. All the assumptions were put together by the committee and they should have put the final report together. Their outside area is their showroom. The City is trying to tell them how to merchandise and sell their products. He presently owns $30,000 worth of balloons. They try to merchandise and bring people into their store. He asked how many people in Dublin have complained? Is it one or two; or is it the Council? A lot of assumptions made are completely wrong. He stated he resents Vice Mayor Lockhart being on this committee. He holds a judgment against her husband. We are not taking into account local business people. They give kids balloons every day. This is a knee jerk reaction to totally ban balloons. He asked if the Council goes into Safeway and tells them how to merchandise their shelves? They attract attention and try to get business in. Business is up each year and we should be happy because we make money. When Godzilla was on TV this was good for Dublin. The sign committee was not along for the end of this. Twenty-one days is totally ridiculous. This is a total knee jerk reaction to the Godzilla on the roof. Mike Lutz with Dublin Auto Center stated he was a participant on the committee and as a group to make recommendations. There seems to be a consensus that yes, there were some abuses with the balloons. At the end of the meetings, they explained their positions about auto sales being an emotional purchase. They try to create a festive friendly atmosphere so people don’t feel threatened when buying a car. With regard to some of the proposed ordinance changes such as roofline balloons, he stated if they put them on the ground, they would be stolen in one day. There is a CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 654 big blower that goes into them and keeps them constantly filled. It is just not feasible to put them on the ground. It’s also not feasible to take them down each night. They are not in the business of filling balloons. When BART came in, they lost part of their freeway exposure. To tether the little balloons, they would also have to have stakes in the ground. They realize they have a responsibility to the City of Dublin and do make an impression. They have gone to great measures to present a good visual impression when people drive by. What’s more distressing to him is the power lines on Scarlett Court. They have taken on the responsibility of the sign to put up community messages, etc. Everything here is a take away for them. He would propose before this is passed, to get the committee back together to get something that works for both parties and try to come to some kind of an agreement with all parties. The old proposal, the consensus was to enforce it the way it was written. This was fair. If this is the big issue that it seems to be, we need to work on something that’s workable for everybody. They only close 3 days a year and they need the exposure. If having the balloons up sells 15 more cars per month, this is a big deal for them. Let’s get to an agreement they can live with. None of these changes were discussed at their meetings. Bruce Fiedler stated this is an emotionally charged issue and when he sees that his home has lesser market value than homes the same age and size across the freeway, this brings it home to him too. Pictures were brought to the committee at one of their meetings. He showed several pictures of various signs and painted window advertising. He felt the amendments to the sign ordinance have at least 3 good things. Mr. Peabody has done a great job in a difficult situation. One good thing is this revision recognizes that we have a problem. It’s called commercial graffiti. Businesses are locating in Pleasanton and San Ramon because they have a better image. The second good thing is it reverses times. The third is proactive enforcement. Deficiencies which could be amended tonight would include the fact that pole signs are not recognized. These can be put up forever. There are none at Shamrock Ford and Chrysler Jeep and only 3 at the Honda dealership. Also window signs have inadequate regulations. This may be one of the worst parts. Window signs should be part of the sign program and it should fit within the area CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 655 of the wall. Temporary promotional signs are there a third of the time. This is like saying it's my birthday, so let’s celebrate it 4 months out of the year. There is nothing that’s this special. Car dealerships have acres and acres of advertising; they’re called cars. They’re out so everyone can see them. This is not like a grocery store or furniture store. At least, most furniture stores that have their merchandise inside. Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. Vice Mayor Lockhart cleared up the fact that committee meetings were held with members of the car dealerships and because they have been a big part of our community for a long time, we wanted them to have input. The committee was just set up for informational purposes and no recommendations were to be presented. Staff did a good job of capturing every idea and consideration that the car dealers had at those two meetings. The fact that there are disagreements on what looks good and what doesn’t, is just something that we will have to live with. Dublin is the only city in the valley where you can pull out of the driveway of a half million dollar home and see a big balloon. Residents are worried about their home values, and the Council has to take into consideration their concerns. Cm. Zika stated he was at the committee meetings also and it was felt that the status quo was not going to work. The car dealers were asked for suggestions. The only suggestion they had was for us to enforce the current ordinance, and then no one came down to get permits. No one could explain why the Ford Dealer doesn’t need all these things and the other dealers have to have them. He thought they made it plain that the current ordinance wasn’t going to work. Mayor Houston added that he understood they may think it was great that Godzilla got all the advertising and they may sell a couple of extra cars, but he asked if they felt the tenor of the reports was something that was positive for the whole community. It was a large huge embarrassment for the Council and the community. There is a huge list of positive things going on in this City and the only press we can get is that huge dinosaur CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 656 in lieu of the new library and the new park and the other wonderful things in our community. This doesn’t work for the City as a whole. They get a lot of complaints. They have to endure comments everywhere they go. This really worked to their detriment. It wasn’t funny and it wasn’t positive. He stated what he wanted to see out of the committee was a little more of how can we solve this and work on some kind of master sign program and get visibility and something professional and nice for the community as a whole. He took flack over the large readerboard sign. It was a condition of approval to have community announcements on the sign. The BART station is a tremendous asset. He wanted to look at a different alternative of signs being put in. This apparently wasn't conveyed to the car dealers. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated Mr. Peabody made a special offer to each dealer to come in and talk about a master sign program for their particular business. Mayor Houston stated this is something that can be worked on in the future. As far as the 21 days, this was an accommodation for the seasonal signs. He stated he felt this is fine. He did not feel it is fair and makes sense having the small balloons tethered to the ground and nobody would see them at all. Balloons 15” or less are often attached to antennas and they don’t go very high. This is an area where he did not feel it is necessary to prohibit. He would like to see an adjustment with this. We aren’t talking about banning the pole banners at all. This could be addressed, however, if it gets out of hand. Cm. Zika stated he didn't have any problem with the small balloons. They attract the eye at street level. Mr. Peabody reminded the City Council that what was written in was small balloons were prohibited. Mayor Houston stated he would like to discuss this further. Cm. McCormick stated she would like to see this prohibition remain. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 657 Cm. Howard stated she would be willing to talk more about this. She doesn’t like to see them flying high or the big balloons. Mayor Houston stated personal attacks on Councilmembers or their families are not acceptable and will not be tolerated. This does not speak well for the people making the attack and reflects poorly on them. Pat Costello responded from the audience and Mayor Houston stated he was out of order. Cm. McCormick made a motion, which was seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart to introduce the ordinance as presented. Mayor Houston stated he would like to see the prohibition on small balloons lifted and that they can never go over one story high, or 10'. He doesn't want Staff to have to go out with a measuring stick to see how high they are. They can go as high as the roof of the building. He stated he would make this a substitute motion. The substitute motion was seconded by Cm. Howard. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she could not support this change. On motion of Mayor Houston, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by majority vote, the Council waived the reading and INTRODUCED the Ordinance amending Chapter 8.84 Sign Regulations of the DMC (Zoning Ordinance) with the change discussed above. Vice Mayor Lockhart and Cm. McCormick voted against the motion. Mr. Peabody stated Staff will bring back the findings describing the reasons for these amendments at the January 18, 2000 meeting when the Ordinance will be presented for a second reading. PUBLIC HEARING - ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF NECESSITY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 658 DIRECTING THE FILING OF EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS TO ACQUIRE REAL PROPERTY FOR THE WIDENING OF PORTIONS OF DUBLIN BLVD, CENTRAL PARKWAY, GLEASON DRIVE AND TASSAJARA ROAD 8:30 p.m.6.7(670-20) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and advised that the property within this eminent domain proceeding is just west of Tassajara Road in Eastern Dublin and generally between I-580 and Gleason Drive. Portions of these streets are needed to provide traffic mitigation street improvements within the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. Costs of the land acquisitions are being paid for through developer advances of each developer's respective Eastern Dublin Traffic Impact Fees. Appraisals of the lands to be acquired have been conducted and the City has made a purchase offer to the property owner. The offer was recently updated and presented to the property owner, but has not been accepted. Mr. Thompson stated City Staff and the Special Condemnation Council met with the property owner and his attorney to discuss topics contained in a letter they sent and the project in general. Based on these discussions, it appeared that most, if not all of the property owner's concerns and questions have been addressed. George Speir stated he was with the law firm representing Dublin Land Company. He advised that Mr. DiManto was ill and could not be here. It is almost odd that he has been asked to be here to object to this Resolution of Necessity. They don’t believe that it has been proposed correctly. The other developers have incentive to do this in a way most effective for them. This isn’t the way they would like to see it done and do not feel it has been done by code. He summarized their letter which was included in the report. There were some changes, but they still wish their CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 659 letter to stand as objection. This is being done by private necessity so the private developments can proceed the way they want them to. Mr. Speir referenced paragraphs a through f of their letter. Public utility easements are the biggest legal objection. For all intent and purpose, the City is taking his property, but not paying for it. They feel this is illegal. This property is being fenced away and should be part of the take. He referenced item 2 of page 2 of the Resolution. "The Project is planned and located in the manner which will be most compatible with the greatest public good and the least private injury." This statement cannot be made. This being the case, if a court ultimately agrees, then it could be found that this entire take is improper. They want this development to happen and go forward and the road to go in, but not this way. Dan Muller, Condemnation Attorney, stated the issues were brought to the City’s attention and to his attention in two meetings and they raised some very interesting issues which they have addressed. The PU easements on either side of the fee takes recognize the impact on the property is less than a full take of the property. They decided pavement, drainage, fencing, etc., or approximately 33’ of easement areas. The appraisers met with Mr. Thompson and project engineers and with Mr. DiManto’s attorneys and came to a valuation of 50% of fee. We feel this strikes a legitimate balance. They will have access to the property. We don’t know when he will come in and seek approval to develop his property. He can come in later and widen his street, but the current projects can go forward. The appraisers have spent a lot of time on this issue and he felt we have come to a good balance. Mr. Speir has worked with them and has been a gentleman and we appreciate this. These roads have been planned for the public as improvements. With regard to private injury and public good, courts usually defer to whether there is a rational engineering purpose to what’s going on. He felt we are fine on this point. He felt we have resolved the offer by negotiating up to 50% from the original 10%. We are pretty strong on this point. The proposed Resolution of Necessity asks the City Council to consider and make findings. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 660 Mr. Muller read the primary findings. "1. The public interest and necessity require the Project which involves the construction, widening and/or improving Tassajara Road, Dublin Boulevard, Central Parkway and Gleason Drive. 2. The Project is planned and located in the manner which will be most compatible with the greatest public good and the least private injury. 3. The property sought to be acquired is necessary for the Project. 4. The offer required by Section 7267.2 of the Government Code of the State of California has been made to the owner or owners of record of the real property." The Council should consider the comments from Mr. Speir, his comments, and those of the City Engineer. We will file eminent domain and try to acquire the property. Vice Mayor Lockhart asked about economy of scale of doing it all at one time. She asked if Staff is comfortable with the fact that their plan is so far behind. Mr. Thompson stated the second portion of the plan will be to underground. The property owner will have to do this. Moving it once will be the expense of the property owners that are paying us to do the condemnation. Mr. DiManto would get credit for moving it a second time. Undergrounding is a totally different scope of work. Mr. Muller advised that stated this is a Resolution that requires a 2/3 vote, or 4 of 5 members to adopt. Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 233 – 99 DETERMINING THAT THE PUBLIC INTEREST AND NECESSITY REQUIRE THE ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN LAND AND DIRECTING THE FILING OF EMINENT DOMAIN PROCEEDINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 661 FINAL FINANCIAL REPORT FOR FY 1998-99 AND ANNUAL AUDIT REPORT 8:52 p.m.8.4(310-30) Finance Manager Fred Marsh presented the Staff Report and advised that the City has compiled and published its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR), for the FY ending June 30, 1999. This report includes financial statements prepared by Vavrinek, Trine, Day & Co., the independent auditors selected by the City Council. Cm. Zika asked about the $2.4 million General Fund balance. This is a contingent liability. Mr. Marsh explained basically there is post retirement health cost that the City must pay for 5 retired Councilmembers and future retirees of the City. The report meets the minimum requirements for disclosing this. The City has recently obtained an actuarial and this determined that in the future we will have to pay about $2.4 million in medical costs. We wanted to take a proactive approach and fund this. This is basically the present value of what we will have to pay in the future. This does not consider inflation. Mr. Ambrose advised that it doesn’t include any increase in medical premiums the Council may consider. Mayor Houston stated it is always nice when we get a report with no shortcomings. On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Cm. Zika, and by unanimous vote, the Council confirmed the designations of Fund Balances for the Non Residential Recycling Program and authorized expenditures for FY 1998- 99 and designated $2.4 million of the General Fund fund balance as part of the Budget for FY 2000-2001 to cover the unfunded liability for Post Retirement Medical Costs. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 662 RECESS At 8:56 p.m., Mayor Houston called for a short recess. At 9:06 p.m., the Council meeting reconvened with all Councilmembers present. PUBLIC HEARING REPEAL OF 20-MINUTE PARKING ZONE ON VILLAGE PARKWAY 9:06 p.m.6.1(570-20) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and advised that this is the second reading of an Ordinance which would repeal a 20-minute parking zone on Village Parkway in front of the Post Office in order to allow unrestricted parking. No testimony was entered by any member of the public relative to this issue. Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council waived the reading and adopted ORDINANCE NO. 27 – 99 REPEALING LIMITED PARKING ZONE (20 MINUTES) ON EAST SIDE OF VILLAGE PARKWAY CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 663 PUBLIC HEARING - TRUMARK TOWNHOMES (SCARLETT PLACE) MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION, SITE DEVELOPMENT REVIEW, AND PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONE FOR A 4-ACRE SITE EAST OF DOUGHERTY ROAD, IMMEDIATELY SOUTHEAST OF THE PARK SIERRA APARTMENT COMPLEX PA 99- 030 9:08 p.m.6.2(450-30) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Community Development Director Peabody advised that the applicant has requested to remove this item from the agenda and indefinitely continue the item at this time. Mayor Houston declared that the item was indefinitely continued. PUBLIC HEARING - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 8.76, OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS OF THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) PA 99-018 9:08 p.m.6.3(570-20) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Community Development Director Peabody presented the Staff Report and advised that this is the second reading of an Ordinance which would make changes to Dublin Municipal Code (Zoning Ordinance) Chapter 8.76, Off- Street Parking and Loading Regulations. Mr. Peabody advised that in accordance with Council direction, Staff had prepared a Resolution related to enforcement without a complaint. This would apply to: living or sleeping in vehicles parked or stored on a lot; CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 664 location of required parking spaces; parking of unlicensed or inoperable vehicles; and parking within a designated parking space. 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 adopted ORDINANCE NO. 28 – 99 AMENDING CHAPTER 8.76, OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REGULATIONS OF THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE (ZONING ORDINANCE) PA 99-018 and adopted RESOLUTION NO. 234 – 99 ESTABLISHING THE ENFORCEMENT POLICY FOR THE ZONING ORDINANCE, BUILDING CODE, HOUSING CODE, AND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE, AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 134-97 PUBLIC HEARING AMENDMENT TO THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 5 TO ADD CHAPTER 5.60 HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE PA 99-045 9:09 p.m.6.4(530-80) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. Community Development Director Peabody presented the Staff Report and advised that this is the second reading of an Ordinance to add a Heritage Tree Ordinance to the Dublin Municipal Code which identifies the species and size of trees that are considered heritage trees and which establishes CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 665 regulations for the protection and removal of heritage trees within the City. The Ordinance establishes a procedure for reviewing and issuing Heritage Tree removal permits and for the protection of Heritage Trees during construction. In addition, the Ordinance identifies civil penalties for violations of the Ordinance. No testimony was entered by any member of the public relative to this issue. Mayor Houston closed the public hearing. Cm. Zika stated he is opposed because we are not going to do proactive enforcement. We should not have neighbor reporting neighbor and he feels this is inappropriate. Cm. Howard stated she agreed with Cm. Zika. On motion of Cm. McCormick, seconded by Vice Mayor Lockhart, and by majority vote, the Council waived the reading and adopted ORDINANCE NO. 29 – 99 ADDING CHAPTER 5.60 TO THE DUBLIN MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING A HERITAGE TREE ORDINANCE Cm. Zika and Cm. Howard voted in opposition. PUBLIC HEARING TRI-VALLEY SPCA, DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT PA 99-004 9:11 p.m.6.5(600-60) Mayor Houston opened the public hearing. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 666 Community Development Director Peabody presented the Staff Report and advised that this is the second reading of an Ordinance approving a DA between the City of Dublin and the Oakland SPCA for the Tri-Valley SPCA project. The DA is required by the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan. Additional Council direction was previously given to return final colors for Council review before the Certificate of Occupancy is issued for the building. Staff is to work with the project architect to ensure that softer, more muted colors are proposed for the project. 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. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council waived the reading and adopted ORDINANCE NO. 30 – 99 APPROVING THE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DUBLIN AND THE OAKLAND SPCA FOR THE TRI-VALLEY SPCA PROJECT ALTERNATE STREET NAME FOR PREVIOUSLY PROPOSED STREET NAME OF "PARK STREET" IN EASTERN DUBLIN 9:13 p.m.7.1(820-60) Public Works Director Lee Thompson presented the Staff Report and advised that the City Council rejected the name of a street connecting Dublin Boulevard and Central Parkway in Eastern Dublin. The Mayor has suggested allowing the DPIE to name the street to raise money for the Dublin School District Technology project. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 667 Mayor Houston stated he felt this is a creative and fun way to enhance DPIE and the technology project and he wanted to make sure it goes toward this project. It will still have to go through proper channels. Cm. McCormick stated she felt this is a great idea and other areas have used it successfully. She suggested we develop a policy so other groups can participate as well. We could defer this to the G&O, but this is something she would like to see. Mayor Houston agreed that in the future it would be wise to establish some guidelines. Cm. McCormick felt a simple lottery with groups putting their names in the hat could work. Mayor Houston stated he did not want to over manage this or make it too cumbersome. It should be put on for discussion with the G&O. Vice Mayor Lockhart commented that DPIE has their big bucks dinner coming up in the spring. When this was first discussed, it wasn’t just for the DPIE technology project. There are several other programs they sponsor with the School District and where they need funding to support the programs within the City. She stated she would like to see if we could leave it up to the technology committee to come up with some kind of a formula for auctioning this. A portion could go for administrative fees. The whole big bucks dinner is to fund their projects for the year. Cm. Zika felt the amount not going toward the technology project would not be subject to matching funds. Mayor Houston stated he felt this was getting way too convoluted. DPIE gets it and they can decide what they want to do. Let’s not make this too difficult. Let them divide it up. Just let it happen. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. McCormick, and by unanimous vote, the Council authorized the Dublin Partners in Education to name the street through a fund-raising event to aid DPIE projects, with CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 668 the provision that the naming of the street is subject to the standard procedures that the City must follow in naming a street, including approval by the City Council. REVIEW OF 1999 FARMERS' MARKET AND PROPOSED FARMERS' MARKET SURVEY 9:21 p.m.8.1(470-50) Economic Development Director Chris Foss presented the Staff Report and advised that Staff had prepared a report for Council review on the 1999 Dublin Certified Farmers' Market and included a proposed survey to solicit community input to improve the Farmers' Market. Mr. Foss stated from Staff's perspective, there are 4 options available relative to the market: These include: 1) Disband the Market; 2) Survey the Community; 3) Prepare new Request for Proposal; and 4) Renew the Contract with Urban Village. Staff felt that a survey would give a better idea of what the community thinks about the Farmers' Market and would provide a necessary backdrop for future City Council deliberations on this matter. Staff requested that the Council review and comment on the survey and to direct Staff to place the survey on the City's web page for community comments. Following the collection of those comments, Staff would return to the City Council with an agenda item requesting further direction. Cm. Zika asked if the survey would only be on the Website. What about people who don’t have access to a computer? Mr. Foss stated this is the fastest way to get it out to the community. This gives us 3 or 4 weeks of Internet communication with the community and even though limited, it gives us some idea. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 669 Cm. Zika suggested getting together with the library and ask people to fill out the survey. We seem to be in a Catch 22 situation; if the vendors aren't there, the people won't come and if there aren't enough people, the vendors won't participate. Maybe this is an idea that just won’t work in Dublin. Cm. McCormick stated she is not ready to give up on it. Mayor Houston stated he was led to believe in the beginning that Saturday is a great time since the vendors are coming over the hill and it's just as easy to be in two locations as one. A lot of them are small farmers and they don’t have employees to service two markets. They have a larger population to draw from in the other areas. Picking a day without a lot of competition may make sense. Mr. Foss stated Mr. Pardini operates a market in Oakland on Friday mornings. They indicated they could stop in Dublin on Friday afternoons. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated we had it Friday afternoons the first year. His story then was there weren’t that many vendors with much products left, so they bypassed us. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she felt we may need to redo the RFP. The successful markets do more than just sell vegetables and fruit. They seem to have a little larger package they put together which attracts more people. In a smaller area, you have to offer more to get people out. Her suggestion is to go ahead and redo the RFP and she felt Staff should go ahead and put the survey on the Website and at the library. The product Mr. Pardini offers is a good product, but quite frankly, he's having a hard time selling it in Dublin. We should go ahead and go out with an RFP. Cm. Zika suggested that on question 2 "Have you ever attended the Dublin Certified Farmers' Market?", that he would like to add, how often? Weekly Monthly. Mayor Houston stated they should go forward with a new RFP. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 670 Cm. McCormick stated she felt on question 11, "How often should the market be operated?", it would be good to know how often they would shop. Also it would be helpful to have a couple of demographic questions such as how many people are in your household. Maybe an age range might be helpful to know also. Mr. Foss stated Staff will come back and make some location recommendations. Mayor Houston clarified that a motion was not needed, but the Council had provided appropriate direction to Staff. RENAMING OF THE DUBLIN SWIM CENTER 9:32 p.m.8.2(250-20) To commemorate the renovation of the Swim Center and to reflect its importance to the community, Mayor Houston has suggested that the Council consider renaming the Swim Center the Peter W. Snyder Swim Center in recognition of Mr. Snyder's dedicated service to the City of Dublin. Mr. Snyder is sometimes referred to as one of the founding fathers of Dublin. He was on the original incorporation committee for the City, served as Dublin's first Mayor, and was on the City Council for 13 years. Cm. Zika stated he liked the idea of naming a public facility after Peter. What we are, and what we will be in the future is directly attributable to Pete Snyder. He stated he would like to see something more appropriate than the swimming pool selected, like the library or the new senior center. There is no better way to say thank you, but he stated he felt our gratitude should be bigger than the swim center. Peter was very instrumental in getting the senior center started. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated the reason she likes the idea of the swim center for Pete is she thinks about Pete and his family and it seems the CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 671 swim center represents families. They raised several children who were also active in the community. The swim center says family, and when she thinks of Pete and Priscilla, it says family. She somehow didn't think that Pete had done many laps in the pool, however. Mayor Houston stated he felt the swim center is appropriate and it is something that is here now. The whole process of taking our parks and other assets in the community and putting them under City control, that was due to the efforts of the first Council. Whether he will be doing a lot of laps in the pool remains to be seen. Cm. Zika asked if we will be embarking in a new direction naming city facilities after the founding fathers. If we start naming them after public figures we need to put down a list and have a policy. Mayor Houston responded that you can only look at this on a case-by-case basis. Cm. McCormick stated at first, she was really pleased about this because of her admiration and respect for Pete. After thinking about it though, and hearing from people, it just doesn’t feel right to her. Pete Snyder is really the father of our City and his work is unequalled and unmatched by anybody. He is the foremost public servant we have in this City. She stated to put his name on a swim center just isn’t doing it for her. A bigger grander building would be better. We don’t want to demean what he has done in this community. He is a distinguished man and public servant and he deserves more. Going along with what Cm. Zika said, she stated she was feeling the absence of public input. We need a policy. The policy could be that the Mayor selects or a citizen’s committee selects. We need to define it better. A lot of people would appreciate having input. She indicated she would not support naming the swim center after Pete, but in exchange we should let some process decide what would be better or more appropriate. Mayor Houston stated the policy is the City Council. The City Council votes on things and makes decisions. If this is not unanimous, he stated CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 672 he would withdraw his request. The City Council makes decisions. He stated he did not feel good about this. Parks & Community Services Director Diane Lowart updated the Council with regard to the status of 4 renovation projects for the Dublin Swim Center. These include: Deck Replacement; Boiler Replacement and Mechanical Building Modifications; Exterior Painting and Fence Replacement; and Pool Lift. DONATION OF ELECTRONIC MARQUEE SIGN 9:44 p.m.8.3(150-70) Recreation Supervisor Paul McCreary presented the Staff Report and advised that Professional Sports Marketing of Dublin has offered to donate to the City an electronic marquee sign. Staff has identified potential locations and uses for the sign for review by the Council. Costs would be incurred for installing the sign, and these costs are unknown at this time. The sign would need to be stored until it could be installed. Storage costs in the interim would be approximately $290 per month. A unit that would be large enough to house the marquee would become available in Livermore on January 1, 2000. There were no other units large enough for the marquee available at this time in the Tri-Valley. Mr. McCreary stated Staff recommended that the City Council determine whether to accept the gift and if it wishes to accept it, Staff would work with representatives from Professional Sports Marketing to conduct a feasibility study to identify costs and to determine if an appropriate location for the sign can be found. Vice Mayor Lockhart stated she thought this was going to be offered to the DHS. Mayor Houston advised that this is a different sign altogether. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 673 Cm. Zika pointed out that we don’t have a pedestal to put it on or the electronics to operate it. We don’t really know what we’re getting. Mr. Ambrose stated we don't know if a keyboard comes with it. Cm. Zika stated he would be interested in a scoreboard for the football stadium, but this is a little much for us. He stated he appreciated the pictures Staff put together showing the size of this sign in relation to buildings. Mayor Houston commented he felt after seeing the pictures, it is too big for the Civic Center. He summarized that the feeling of the Council is to not accept the offer of the donation. It is just too big and would even dwarf the corner at Shannon Center. U.S.CENSUS 2000 - COMPLETE COUNT COMMITTEE AND OUTREACH PROGRAM 9:49 p.m.8.5(420-60) Senior Planner Carol Cirelli presented the Staff Report and advised that Census questionnaires will be delivered to every household beginning in mid-March 2000. Census information is used for purposes such as planning schools, building roadways, providing recreational opportunities and managing healthcare services. Planning Staff has been working with the U. S. Census Bureau for the last year updating land use information as part of the Land Update Census Address program. The total estimated cost for implementing the Outreach Program (not including Staff time) is $8,700. The City has been allocated $5,000 from Alameda County for implementing the program and as a result, an additional appropriation of $3,700 would be required for Program implementation. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 674 Ms. Cirelli discussed the Complete Count Committee, the 1990 Census, Dublin's Complete Count Committee and Outreach Program, and Alameda County's Outreach Program. Vice Mayor Lockhart asked for an idea about the $3,700 and how the money will be spent. Ms. Cirelli stated what they would like to do is fund banners. This would really help the City. This would be an effective way of promoting the Census. Other funds would be used towards designing and copying brochures and flyers for households. We are pooling resources for the Alameda Countywide outreach. We are coming up with some regional ideas for advertising in the Tri-Valley, such as on the Wheels buses. She has been working closely with Livermore and Pleasanton, but we now have to implement our own City program. Cm. Zika commented that the Federal Government is required to have a census count every 10 years, but they are pushing us in a corner and we are doing part of their job. On motion of Vice Mayor Lockhart, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 235 – 99 SUPPORTING THE CENSUS 2000 EFFORT; ACCEPTING THE "HIGH FIVE CHALLENGE", AND AGREEING TO SET A GOAL OF INCREASING THE MAIL RESPONSE RATE BY 5% OR MORE and approved the draft Census 2000 Outreach Program, and approved the Budget Change Form. 2000 GOALS & OBJECTIVES MEETING & BUDGET STUDY SESSION 9:57 p.m.8.6(100-80) CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 675 City Manager Ambrose advised that annually, the City Council holds a special meeting to define the City's Goals & Objectives for the upcoming year, and to review the status of goals for the past year. A Budget Study Session is also held and used as a means for the Council to provide Staff with guidelines for development of the City's Annual Budget for the upcoming year. Mr. Ambrose reviewed the format of last year's G&O meeting and process considerations for 2000. In 1999, the City Council adopted a G&O Plan with 123 objectives. Of those 123 objectives, the Council prioritized 90 (73%) high priority. What has become apparent during this past year is that Councilmembers have different individual perspectives/ expectations as to which high priority objectives are completed first. Since the preponderance of objectives are given a high priority, the current process does not adequately provide direction with respect to the City Council's highest priorities. Mr. Ambrose stated if the Council is concerned regarding which high priority objectives are accomplished first, the Council may wish to direct Staff to modify the goal setting process to provide a means/options to prioritize high priority objectives. Historically, Staff has been held accountable for objectives on an annual basis from March to March of each year. Management Staff have observed that for many of these objectives which require additional funding and/or Staff, that funding is not provided until the beginning of the new fiscal year. In addition, in some cases, the Council has not provided funding in the Budget for objectives identified in the G&O Plan in March, yet they remain in the Plan for the year. Mr. Ambrose advised that in order to address these issues, Staff recommended that: 1) the Council continue to hold the G&O session in March, but the year which is used to measure the "Level of Accomplishment" be based on a fiscal year rather than March to March; CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 676 and 2) the Council adopts a preliminary G&O Program in March, but considers final adoption in June during the Budget Hearing. Also, last year the City Council held a Budget Study Session on the same evening as the G&O meeting. This Study Session was used as a means of Council providing Staff with guidelines for development of the City's Annual Budget for the upcoming year. The Study Session was very useful and facilitated the development of the Preliminary Budget for FY 1999- 2000. Staff recommended that the Council again hold the Budget Study Session on the same evening as the G&O planning meeting in order to facilitate the development of the FY 2000-2001 Budget. The Council discussed the fact that regular meeting dates that month are February 1 and 15. The Council then selected the evening of Tuesday, stth February 29 beginning at 6:00 p.m., and requested that dinner be th provided. Mayor Houston stated he felt the format we have is great and it has served us well and we can only try to implore the Council to be more selective rather than to make everything high priority. Mr. Ambrose commented if you look at the level of growth, development is tremendous, but it represents only one objective. Mayor Houston stated we need to make sure things that are important to all of them are on the list. Vice Mayor Lockhart asked if there is a way to break the goals out in a little more definitive way. They could have a better understanding and this would make it easier on Staff and for the Council to understand what the goal entails. Mayor Houston suggested putting in an estimation of how long a particular goal would take. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 677 Mr. Ambrose stated Staff could make a stab at that. The goal has to be correctly articulated. Staff will attempt to clearly articulate as we go through the process of what each objective is about and look at realistic time estimates to complete the objective. Cm. Zika agreed that we have to maintain some flexibility. This year we have had trouble getting good candidates for some of the positions and this has to be taken into consideration. Mr. Ambrose has been good about keeping them posted and with open communication. Mayor Houston talked about the Budget Study Session, and stated they will make an effort to get it all done in one evening, but should keep the second night open just in case. The Budget Study Session should be held on the same date. OTHER BUSINESS 10:08 p.m. Housing Field Trip (610-80) Mr. Ambrose stated invitations had been sent to the City Council with regard to a field trip on January 12 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., to look at th high density residential and downtown commercial areas. He requested that the Council please let Staff know if they will be attending so that proper noticing can be done. Cm. McCormick stated she has an Alameda County Housing Authority meeting that morning at 8 a.m. Mr. Ambrose stated Staff would work out some way for her to attend after her meeting. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 678 Holiday Greetings (610-80) Cm. McCormick, Cm. Howard and Vice Mayor Lockhart wished everyone a happy holiday season, a very Merry Christmas and happy healthy New Year. Senior Center Dinner (595-50) Cm. Zika thanked Chief Thuman and his Staff for serving the senior center dinner last Thursday. This was greatly appreciated. Street Curb House Numbers (820-10) Cm. Zika stated as he was driving Santa around the last few nights, he noted that at a lot of houses, you can’t find a house number. Maybe we could get some kind of a program to require people to have their numbers visible. Some are on the curb, but there are cars parked there. Maybe we could look at something with G&O. New Grandchild/Future Voter (610-80) Cm. Zika stated he hoped his new granddaughter, Emma has arrived. His daughter and son-in-law are over at Valley Care having a baby girl this evening. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 679 Holiday Greetings (610-80) Mayor Houston wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. The Council won’t have a meeting on January 4, 2000. He advised that he will be working in one of the fireworks booths. ADJOURNMENT 11.1 There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 10:12 p.m. ____________________________________ Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ City Clerk CITY COUNCIL MINUTES VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 680 ADJOURNMENT 11.I There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 10:12 p.m. ATTEST: CITY COUNCIL MINUTF.,S VOLUME 18 REGULAR MEETING December 21, 1999 PAGE 673