Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-01-1993 Adopted CC Minutes BudgetADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING - June 1, 1993 An adjourned regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Dublin was held on Tuesday, June 1, 1993, in the Council Chambers of the Dublin Civic Center. The meeting was called to order at 7:33 p.m., by Mayor Snyder. * * * ROLL CALL PRESENT: ABSENT: Councilmembers Burton, Houston,'Howard, Moffatt and Mayor Snyder. None. * * * PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (610-20) Mayor Snyder led the Council, Staff and those present in the pledge of allegiance to the flag. * * * CLOSED SESSION ADDED TO END OF MEETING (640-30) On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Moffatt, and by unanimous vote, the Council agreed to add a closed session to the end of the meeting related to potential litigation, in accordance with Government Code Section 54956.9(b). * * * * City Manager Ambrose explained that the first part of the meeting would be related to reviewing the various contract services. We review our contracts regularly based on the terms of the individual contract. Because Staff could not sort out the implicatiOns of the State funding cuts to County Libraries, the Library agreement will be dealt with in the future. Also, because the scope of work for the MCE Corporation agreement cannot be developed until the budget process is completed, their contract will be brought back to a subsequent Council meeting after the budget decisions are made. CONTRACT REVIEW - TJKM TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES (590-10/600-30) Public Works Director Thompson advised that TJKM Transportation Consultants has provided Traffic Engineering Services to the City since 1983 in the areas of general traffic studies, private development review and Capital Improvement Project design and construction review. The Council reviewed the performance, including: 1) Specific 1992-93 Traffic Engineering Projects; 2) Cost of Services Provided including a Historical Cost Comparison; 3) Utilization by Employee Classification; 4) Cost-Effectiveness of Contract vs. In-House; 5) 1993-94 General Engineering; 6) 1993-94 Private Development; 7) 1993-94 Capital Projects. CM - VOL 12 - 232 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 In summary, the contract with TJKM provides the City with the opportunity to utilize a variety of contract employees, depending on the skill level required. The estimated total hours of service projected for FY 1993-94 is approximately 250 hours. TJKM did not increase their rates from 1991-92 to 1992-93, and is not proposing any increases in rates for FY 1993-94. Staff proposes that the contract amendment provide for a two-year extension rather than one year. TJKM could still request a rate increase for FY 1994-94 and' the City Council would have the opportunity to review any proposed increases. cm. Burton stated when you review the historical cost comparison chart, it is pretty remarkable. In FY 1990-91 they provided services which cost $110,126, and we've budgeted only $16,000 for the upcoming fiscal .year. Cm. Moffatt stated he wanted to confirm that there is a 60-day clause whereby the City could eliminate their services. Mr. Thompson stated this was correct. On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Moffatt, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 70 - 93 APPROVING AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT FOR TRAFFIC ENGINEERING SERVICES WITH TJKM TRANSPORTATION CONSULTANTS CONTRACT REVIEW - PROPOSED NEW AGREEMENT WITH ALAMEDA COUNTY FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL MAINTENANCE AND CROSSING GUARD SERVICES (590-50/600-40) PubliC Works Director Thompson advised that Traffic Signal Maintenance Services are estimated to cost $48,000 for FY 1993-94. The estimated cost of Crossing Guard Services for 4 locations is $36,022, or $18,011 for 2 locations. Based upon previous City Council direction, Staff evaluated the cost of reducing these services. Currently, the City provides crossing guards at: San Ramon Road/Shannon Avenue; Amador Valley Boulevard/Burton Street; Silvergate Drive/Amarillo Road; and Amarillo Road/Alegre Drive. The Staff RepOrt was reviewed which included: An Overview of Traffic Signal Maintenance Services; Current Signal Maintenance Service Level; Alternative Means of Providing Signal Maintenance Services; Evaluation of Alameda County Services; and Emergency Callouts and Response to Service Requests. Cm. Moffatt asked if there was any chance that we could combine the County's efforts with other cities for a reduced price. CM - VOL 12 - 233 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mr. Thompson advised that the County currently provides services to Castro Valley and San Lorenzo. They staff for this amount of signals and we pay on an hourly basis for our service. Assistant to the City Manager Texeira stated that for Crossing Guard Services, Staff reviewed the Historical Background; Establishment of City Warrants for Placement of Crossing Guards; City Council Placement of Crossing Guards Since 1986; Current Crossing Guard Services; Cost Effectiveness of Alameda County Services; Ability to Eliminate the Services; and Options Under the Proposed Agreement. Staff explained that two different schedules were presented for Crossing Guard Services in the event that the Council wished to consider a reduced level of service from 4 to.2 locations. Ms. Texeira advised that Crossing Guard Services were included among those services which were recommended to be eliminated by the Council at their meeting of February 8, 1993. Although there is no requirement for the City to provide Crossing Guard Services, the Education Code contains provisions which allow the School District to be reimbursed. They would be reimbursed frOm Vehicle Code fines (traffic safety fines) the City collects. The City anticipates receiving $26,500 in both the current and following year. Staff also proposed that the new agreement with Alameda County specify a 5-year term rather than 3 years. No other significant changes in language are proposed. The agreement would allow for amendments to the scope of work, such as additional signalized intersections or crossing guard locations, which would be presented to the City Council for approval at such time that amendments become necessary. As with the present agreement, cost increases would occur at the time that the County processes pay rate or equipment rate increases or incurs material cost increases. The County provides upcoming rate increase information to the City at the time the budget is developed each year. The City has the ability to terminate this agreement upon 90 days written notice. Cm. Moffatt questioned if we would only have to reimburse the School District for locations which meet warrants. Mr. Rankin stated the only locati°ns that the City would be required to fund would be those that meet warrants. There has been no recent study done at the other 2 locations. Ms. Texeira pointed out that if we shift this responsibility to the School.District we give Up a certain amount of control. Cm. Moffatt said there are some volunteer folks that we might be able to call upon to provide services up at Nielsen School. Ms. Texeira advised that this has been suggested in the past. CM - VOL 12 - 234 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mr. Rankin stated this was done by volunteers in the past and they felt it was difficult. They came before the City Council and the Council determined to provide service there. Cm. Burton questioned who is responsible in a legal sense if we back off from providing services at certain intersections. City Attorney Silver stated if the City terminates the provision of crossing guards, we should not have liability. The fact that we change this should not affect this as long as the intersection is safe. Cm. Burton asked if there is a warrant that says a guard is necessary and nothing is done, are we responsible if we don't provide service? Ms. Silver advised that if an injury were to occur and the location warranted a crossing guard and neither the City nor the School District provides a guard, neither would have more responsibility than the other. The City has the discretion to provide the service. Cm. Houston questioned if the Vehicle Code fines of $26,500 we anticipate receiving are for 2 years or if this is the per year amount. Mr. AmbrOse stated $26,500 is the total estimated amount for 1 year. Staff only proposes to utilize $9,600 in expenditures in 1993-94. Cm. Houston questioned if the School District could just find out how much our traffic safety fines are and then say we should have to give them that much. Mr. Ambrose discussed the options and advised that if we provide the service, we maintain control. There are pros and cons each way. Mayor Snyder stated he felt from an administrative standpoint, it makes sense to let the School District handle this program. They could then apply to the City for funds. Mr. Rankin pointed out that it may change if they are able to show that 3 intersections are warranted. They can only'get so much money, however. There is administrative time involved in handling the contract. Ms. TeXeira estimated that there is maybe an hour per month devoted to this, plus the contract review time. We have had some calls that require follow-up. Cm. Moffatt asked if the maximum exposure that the City would have from the traffic safety fund would be the approximate $26,500 amount. Ms. Texeira stated reimbursement is limited to only those funds. Cm. Moffatt questioned if there could be carryover from year to year. [] · · · · · · · · · · · · · I · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mr. Ambrose stated it applies only to current year revenues. Mayor Snyder said he felt if revenues continue to drop, this puts the load where the load belongs. Budget transfers were discussed. Cm. Burton made a motion, which was seconded by Cm. Moffatt to turn the crossing guard services over t© the School District and for the City to get out of it. Mr. Ambrose suggested that perhaps it would be possible to approve the agreement with -0- locations. ThiS WOuld be an indication that the School District would become responsible. Mr. Rankin stated the Council could eliminate all locations for FY 1993-94, but still adopt the agreement. Cm. Houston stated he would like to keep the amount of money in General Fund revenue and review this in a year. Cm. Burton withdrew his motion, and Cm. Moffatt withdrew his second to the motion. On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded bY Cm. Moffatt, and by unanimous vote, the Council agreed to adopt the 5 year agreement, but to not commit to providing crossing guardS at any locations this fiscal year. On motion of Cm. MOffatt, seconded by Cm. Houston, and by unanimous vote, the Council approved the traffic signal maintenance agreement and adopted RESOLUTION NO. 71 - 93 APPROVING NEW AGREEMENT FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL MAINTENANCE AND CROSSING GUARD SERVICES WITH ALAMEDA COUNTY CONTRACT REVIEW - SANTINA & THOMPSON ENGINEERING SERVICES (830-10/600-30) Public Works Director Thompson adviSed that Santina & Thompson, Inc., has provided general professionalengineering services under contract to the City since 1983. Major Engineering design projects have been competitively bid. Work is primarily Performed on an as-needed basis, in accordance with a speCified rate SChedule. No change in rates is proposed for FY 1993-94. The agreement precludes S&T from undertaking private work within the City or the City's Sphere of Influence. The estimated cost of services in 1993-94 is $32,000. Staff reviewed the report which inclUded: General Engineering; Development Review; PrOjected Private Development Needs in FY 1993-94; Capital Improvement Projects; Projected Needs for 1993-94 Capital Projects; Staffing; Costs; and the Agreement. CM - VOL 12 - 236 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 A new agreement was prepared in FY 1992-93 which reflected a reduced scope of work and which defined a new errors and omissions insurance limit. ~ For FY 1993-94, Staff proposed that the agreement be extended for an additional 2-year period. S&T is not proposing any rate increases for FY 1993-94, and 'the amendment to the agreement would allow S&T to propose a rate increase for the City Council's approval for FY 1994-95. S&T charges the City of Dublin 75% of the rates shown on the rate schedule for General Engineering or Capital Improvement work performed from the City offices, or for work performed from the City offices on permits or applications for which a fixed fee is charged. Cm. Moffatt questioned on private development if the developer pays the costs plus the City's overhead costs. Mr. Thompson stated it comes out of the City's budget, but it is offset by revenue. On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Houston, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 72 - 93 APPROVING AMENDMENT TO AGREEMENT FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES WITH SANTINA & THOMPSON, INC. CONTRACT REVIEW - TAUGHER & ASSOCIATES BUILDING LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES (440-30/600-30) Assistant City Manager Rankin stated the City has contracted with Taugher & Associates for Building Inspection, Plan Checking and Code Enforcement services since 1983. The Staff Report was reviewed which provided detailed information on: staffing Levels; Availability to Public; Business License Activity; Public Education; Proposed Service Levels; Cost Per Inspection; Cost of Services; Financial Comparison of In-House Building & Safety Department; and Request for Amendment to Rate Schedule. Mr. Rankin advised that Taugher & Associates have requested rate increases of 3.5% and 3.7% for the Building Official and Building Inspector, respectively, for FY 1993-94. The current rates have been in place since August 1, 1991. Cm. Burton asked what justification Mr. Taugher had for the requested increases. Mr. Taugher stated the cost of living has gone up about 6% since his last increase in rates. He was requesting less than this amount. Mr. Rankin advised that the Workers' Compensation premium had also increased slightly as a result of the new form of the contract which was approved last year. There were some added insurance costs. · · · · · · · I · · · · · · · · · · · [] · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Cm. Houston asked for more detail related to the surcharge for insurance. Mr. Taugher explained that he paid about $2,700 when he first started providing services to the City. It then went up to $27,000 and has now gone up to about $54,000. He requested that the City assist with these costs. Rates have now come down somewhat. Mr. Rankin advised that the current structure caps the City's liability at $9,000, and this is a cumulative figure. Cm. Moffatt questioned if this was inclusive of the potential increase in the salaries. He asked if this program was more or less self- sufficient based on the new rates. Mr. Taugher said it is very close. Mayor Snyder asked if this comes oUt of revenue generated which is sufficient to cover the cost of the contract. Cm. Burton stated he personally felt that everyone should hold rates this year. A lot of cuts will have to be made and he felt it important that we commit to this across the board. He was not arguing that the fees don't cover the serVice. By giving this raise, it appears that the Council is not keeping their priorities right. He stood by the principle that no one gets a raise this year. Mayor Snyder stated he could agree with this except that they did not get an increase last year. The Department generates the revenues to cover the service. Cm. Houston pointed out'that some of the other contractors have not requested an increase in their rates for 2 years. He felt the City should hold it at the current rate. Cm. Burton stated he was not opposed to looking at this agreement in a year. Mr. Ambrose stated it should be recognized that Mr. Taugher is an independent contractor and not a City employee. Following a very brief consultation, Mr. Taugher stated he would opt to go with the City Council's decision. Cm. Moffatt made a motion, which Was seconded by Mayor Snyder to adopt the resolution and approve the increase requested. Cm. Burton stated he would like to make a substitute motion. On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Houston, and by unanimous vote, the Council approved the agreement, but with no increase in rates. The Council will review this next year. · · · · · I I · · · · · · · · · I · · · · · · · · · · · · I · · · · · CM - VOL 12 - 238 &djourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Staff clarified that no Resolution was necessary, as the Resolution was prepared in order to amend the agreement due to the rate change. Cm. Moffatt asked about the reduced service. Mayor Snyder stated this was a separate issue which would be discussed during the budget. CONTRACT REVIEW - MCE CORPORATION PUBLIC WORKS MAINTENANCE SERVICES (830-60/600-30) Public Works Director Thompson adVised that since 1984, MCE CorporatiOn has provided maintenance services to the City which include: Bike Path Maintenance; Building Management & Maintenance; Curb, Gutter and Sidewalk; Drainage Maintenance; Guardrail Repair; Park Maintenance; Sign Installation, Repair & Maintenance; Spill Cleanup; Storm Patrol/Cleanup; Street Landscaping Maintenance; Street Repair; Street Tree Maintenance; Striping & Marking; and Weed Abatement. MCE's current 3-year contract expires in June, 1993. Staff reviewed the report which analyzed: Review of Services Provided; Service Requests; Cost Effectiveness of Contract Services; Other Options for Street, Park and Building Maintenance Services; Proposed Services for FY 1993-94; Staffing; Proposed Rates for FY 1993-94; and Performance. MCE Management has indicated to Staff that if the City Council adopts a salary freeze, they would impose the same condition on all rates charged for Dublin crews. The estimated savings to the City is $14,600. After the City Council takes action on the 1993-94 Budget, Staff will work with MCE to prepare, a 1993-94 rate schedule in accordance with citY Council policy. It is anticipated that a 3-year agreement will be prepared, with provision to review and revise rates on an annual basis. Consistent with previous agreements, the contract could be terminated upon 90 days' notice. Cm. Burton pointed out on the rate sheet it showed they are requesting a 3% raise. Mr. Thompson advised that if the city freezes wages, MCE has agreed that they will also. cm. Burton again stated his principle that nobody should get wage increases until we get through this budget crisis. Discussion was held related to whether this could apply to MCE workers who are not permanently assigned to work in the City of Dublin, but who work here on an occasional basis. Mr. Ambrose advised that MCE may need to address this issue. Cm. Burton stated he felt MCE had done an excellent job and they are very conscientious. CM - VOL 12 - 239 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Staff and MCE will prepare a new 3-year agreement incorporating those things discussed. The agreement will be presented to the Council at a future Council meeting. PUBLIC HEARING - 1993-94 UPDATE TO 1992-97 FIVE-YK~R CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (330-40) Mayor Snyder opened the public hearing. Mr. Ambrose presented the Staff Report and advised that updated costs for the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program total $23,948,607. Projected costs for the remaining four years of the CIP total $6,805,410 for those projects which are funded, and $10,132,325 for those projects which are unfunded or underfunded. The recommended project costs for FY 1993-94 total $3,263,629. Unfunded/ Funded Under funded Tota 1 General $ 0 $ 0 $ 0 Community Improvements 232,600 390,000 622,600 Parks 1,545,109 2,598,796 4,143,905 Streets 5,027,701 7,143 , 529 12,171,230 TOTAL $ 6,805,410 $10,132,325 $16,937,735 On May 25, 1993, the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed CIP Update and determined that it was in conformance with the City's adopted General Plan. The Park & Recreation Commission reviewed those projects included in the Parks program of the CIP and determined that the projects were in accordance with the Park & RecreatiOn Commission's recommended priorities. The eighteen projects in Commission priority order are: Dublin Sports Grounds Renovation (Phase I), Dublin High School Athletic Field Renovation, Iron HorSe Trail, Mape Park Renovation, Dublin Sports Grounds Renovation (Phase II), Nielsen School Athletic Field Renovation, Murray School Athletic Field Renovation, Dublin Sports Grounds Renovation (Phase III), Dublin High School Tennis Courts Renovation, Dublin High SchoOl Outdoor Lighting, Dublin Swim Center Boiler Replacement, Wells-Cronin Athletic Field Renovation, Frederiksen School Athletic Field Renovation, Dublin School Athletic Field and Play Area RenoVation, Heritage Center Renovation (Phase II), Dougherty Hills Park Design Study, Dougherty Hills Park Construction, and Shannon Center Social Hall Floor Replacement. Cm. Burton asked if the referendum succeeds will the Park Master Plan have to be postponed. Mr. Ambrose responded that it would be wise to defer its completion pending the outcome. CM - VOL 12 - 240 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 An unidentified person spoke from the audience and stated she was unclear on the action the Council had taken regarding crossing guards. Mayor Snyder explained that it was felt that School Districts know better than the cities what happens in this regard, so the City of Dublin will let the School District administer the program. The unidentified person asked about private schools. They generate most of the traffic problems and create them. Mayor Snyder advised that private schoolS basically have to fend for themselves; they do not get publiC funds to operate. Cm. Moffatt stated if the private schools went to the voucher system, they might. MayOr Snyder pointed out that the Council was in a public hearing situation related to the Update to the 5-Year Capital Improvement Program and this was not the appropriate time to be discussing other topics. No comments were made by members of the public relative to the CIP. Mayor Snyder closed the public hearing. Cm. Howard asked what happens if the School District Bond Issue passes on the June ballot. Mr. Ambrose advised that Staff will sit down with the School District and go through the list of projects. On motion of Cm. Houston, seconded by Cm. Burton, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 73 - 93 ADOPTING THE 1993-94 UPDATE TO THE 1992-97 FIVE-YEAR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PUBLIC HEARING ADOPTION OF 1993-94 ANNUAL BUDGET AND FINANCIAL PLAN (330-20) Mayor Snyder opened the public hearing. Mr. Ambrose presented the Staff Report and advised that the total recommended appropriations for FY 1993-94 are $20,292,087. Total anticipated net expenditUres are $17,841,403 (which can be reduced by $124,687 as a result of the City's recently completed refinancing of the 1988 Civic Center certificates of Participation). A total of $438,575 in recommended reductions is proposed to balance the 1993-94 Budget. Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mr. Ambrose stated he recommended that the savings realized from the refinancing be used in lieu of burdening the City's residents and businesses with additional assessments associated with a Citywide Landscaping Assessment District. The City has received funding requests from 2 non-profit groups. Emergency Services Network of Alameda County has requested financial support in the amount of $750. The DUblin Fine Arts Foundation is reqUesting that the City contribute $8,000 toward their programs, as it has done in previous years. Mr. Ambrose advised that the 1993-94 Budget, as recommended by Staff, is a balanced budget which not onlY includes the anticipated property tax shift to the State, but which alSo does not rely upon General Fund Reserves. Although the amount and imPact of the State Property Tax Shift is not final, sufficient options for Council consideration were included in the document "1993-94 ProPosed/Possible Budget Options to Address State Property Tax Shift" (Pages iii - vi of the Preliminary Budget) to address a greater impact should this occur after the Council's adoption of the Budget. With regard to staffing, the FY 1993-94 Current Service Level budget provides for a total of 82.75 positions (36 City employees and 46.75 Contract positions). However, the FY 1993-94 Recommended Reduced Service Level budget provides for a total of 77.73 positions (32.5 City employees and 45.23 Contract positions). This represents a 9.75% decrease in staff when compared to the FY 1992-93 budget. Mr. Ambrose displayed and discussed charts giving an overview of the impacts of the State's budget on Dublin. We are impacted by a number of factors which affect our local economy, including: the recession, the savings & loan problems, unemployment, job migration to other states and countries, excessive regulation as well as high cost of housing, federal and state governments unwillingness to control their costs, continuous federal and state mandates on local government without corresponding funding, restrictions on how we use revenue, etc. Locally, we have increased retail competition from centers in neighboring communities. Also, Alameda County cuts will impact us. We don't know yet how all this will play out. Cm. Burton asked if any agreements had been made in the event we get more money from some source. Mr. Ambrose advised that no commitments had been made to employees nor with Department Heads regarding filling empty positions. Linda Wood, County Librarian addressed the Council and thanked the City for its past support. This support has enhanced service to Dublin residents tremendously. People have improved their lives and improved their education. Young people have been helped to develop good habits of library use. She appreciated the City Manager's recommendation to provide the same amount of funding next year as was provided this year. They appreciate this recommendation very much. This will mean Dublin's library will be able to stay open 5 days a CM - VOL 12 - 242 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 week, plus alternate Saturdays. This would provide a decent service level. They are 88% dependent on property tax revenue. They will receive many complaints when their hours are reduced. They will make sure that users understand-that this is as a result of the State property tax shift. Cm. Burton asked if other cities were coming up with any unique ideas. Ms. Wood advised that they are all working hard to convince the State not to shift the property tax. They are also pursuing trying to get enabling legislation for additional revenue, and they are seeking benefit assessment financing authority from the State. No cities are planning a tax at this time. Cm. Burton stated he suspects that it will come to this at some point. Cm. Houston discussed the 19 hours that the City funds now and the fact that this would translate to only about 12½'hours after adoption of the budget. Why? Ms. Wood explained that the City funds the incremental coSts to a base. When the base is no longer there, or cut in half, it no longer works. They are recalculating staffing plans to reach a workable agreement or understanding on how the new staffing patterns will work. Cm. Houston asked Ms. Wood to discuss the potential partnership with Pleasanton. Ms. Wood explained how this will work; staff will move between the 2 libraries. Mayor Snyder questioned the SaturdaY situation and what happens if there is a fifth Saturday in a month. He asked if it was going to work on an absolute rotation. Ms. Wood advised that each librarY would be open a half day on alternate Saturdays. Dublin would be open 4 hours in the morning and Pleasanton would be open in the afternoon. Then, the next Saturday, both facilities would be closed. Mayor Snyder inquired as to which was their busiest day of the week. Ms. Wood stated it would be Sunday on a per hOur open basis, but they are busiest on Mondays. Friday is their slowest day. Lynne Baer, Executive Director of the Dublin Fine Arts Foundation thanked the Council for their past support. She realized that the CitY Council is faced with an extremely diffiCUlt task. Art is one of those peripheral things that adds to a city's vitality and life. DFA tries to provide art space for all ages. They use the City's funding to parlay the amount to Other groups. The $8,000 is about 1/5 of their budget. Without this amount, it would be very difficult for them. · · [] · · · · · · · · · · I · [] · [] · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mayor Snyder advised that he would disqualify himself from discussion on this topic as he is a member of the Board of DFA. Vice Mayor Burton asked for discuSsion. Cm. Moffatt asked if the funding were to be decreased by half if this would put them out of business. Ms. Baer responded that they hoped not; it would just make it more difficult to get other funding. Cm. Moffatt complimented DFA on their programs, particularly those with the kids in the community. They have a great program. Mayor Snyder pointed out that the budget that is being presented is a balanced budget. Cm. Burton indicated that the budget is so well documented, it might not be necessary to go through each page and suggested that they just review those areas where questions arise. Cm. Houston indicated that we say we have a salary freeze, yet there is a dollar difference between last year and this year. He asked for an explanation. Mr. Ambrose advised that several factors impact this figure. The PERS system was required to provide a rebate during 1992-93, so if you look at true retirement costs without this, they would have been higher. Our rate was reduced in 1992-93, and it has increased in 1993-94. With regard to salaries, the City does not provide COLAs (cost of living adjustments) to employees, and we don't have a bargaining unit. We are on a Pay-for-Performance System. Everyone is evaluated on their anniversary date, which vary. In the Recreation Department, there are some programs that are included which have part-time salaries based on the programs. The programs are revenue generating. There was a slight medical premium increase which was funded for only 3 months this year, but which next year would impact the entire 12 month period° Cm. Houston asked if different positions have different PERS contributions. Mr. Ambrose advised that the employee's share is 7%; and the DRFA employee's share is 9%. For every City employee covered by PERS, the City pays the same retirement rate. Cm. Houston stated in the next fiscal year, the figures should match. Mr. Ambrose advised that there could be some differences. The PERS rate could go up or down and if someone leaves and we refill the position, this will impact the figures The.figures should be close, however. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · [] · · · · · · · · · i · · · · · CM - VOL 12 - 244 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Cm. Houston suggested that the City Council's travel, conferences and meetings budget be reduced. Mr. Ambrose advised that money was included in this budget for the City Council to attend a couple of the League of California Cities meetings. This past year, no one has gone anywhere. The Council does need to be in touch with the outside world. Sometimes you miss out on real opportunities that could end up saving the City a lot of money. Mr. Rankin advised that the figure included a lot of the regional type meetings such as the Mayors' Conference, the Tri-Valley Council, and ABAG meetings. It also included 3 attendees at the League's Executive Forum, and 5 attendees at the League's annual conference in San Francisco. Also, one Councilmember is an appointee to a League committee and funding is included for those meetings. An amount was also included for local mileage and parking reimbursements. Cm. Houston stated he would propose to. reduce the $8,650 figure by 50%. Cm. Moffatt stated he felt some of these meetings such as ABAG and the East Bay Division of LOCC are important to go to in order to gain knowledge and experience regarding what other cities are doing. By eliminating these, we would be isolating ourselves and this would be like shooting ourselves in the foot. You might as well eliminate the whole amount. Mayor Snyder pointed out that a lot of the funds weren't utilized last year. With the LOCC conference being in San Francisco this year, it affords the Council an opportunitY to attend without incurring unreasonable expense. It allows for interaction with peers, and for the Council to understand what's happening in the world at large. He felt the funds would be used prudently. Cm. Burton stated he was not sure he agreed that they are always worthwhile. Cm. Houston stated he thought it was imPortant that the City Council contribute toward holding the line. The entire amount could be reinstated if funds are available next year. Cm. Burton asked if the Council used the same discretionary methods used this past year, for next years budget, how much this would allow. Cm. Houston stated $10,250 was budgeted and $8,700 was spent. Mr. Ambrose advised that if the amount were to be cut in half, the Council could not attend all those things that they need in order to regionally participate and have a voice at ABAG and the Mayors' Conference, etc. If the Council wished to reimburse themselves for mileage and parking and for Cm. Moffatt to fulfill his responsibil- ities on the League Committee, the amount necessary would be about $5,240. This would cut out all attendance at' the League Conference, but leave the other items discussed. · I · · I · · · · · · · · · · · · [] · [] · · · [] · · · · · · · · · · · CM - VOL 12 - 245 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mayor Snyder stated he felt it was difficult to speculate on this until the program is available for review. He actually felt that a lot would be eliminated anyway. He didn't think the interest would be there for full participation. By a consensus, the Council determined to leave the budget as is, and ask that everyone be prudent in its use. With regard to the Level II $5,000 funding, Mayor Snyder asked if it would be possible to put this amount into a contingency fund and the Council could vote on its use as situations came up. Mr. Ambrose asked if this would apply to all travel. Mayor Snyder clarified that his intention was just for the $5,000. Rather than have it as a line item, it could be put into a discretionary fund that the Council has to come back and address. The Council voiced understanding and acceptance of this. Under the Public Safe~y section of the budget, Mr. Ambrose advised that we don't have an~ control over what happens with the County collective bargaining. The DRFA agreement expires this year and we have not put in any additional funds in the budget for any salary increases. Cm. Burton asked how much maneuvering room we will have. Mr. Ambrose stated the Fire employees are members of the JPA, governed by the Board of Directors. Three Councilmembers from Dublin and three from San Ramon make up this Board. Mr. Rankin reported that there were a couple of outstanding costs have not been resolved with regard to Police; parking citations and the adjudication process. Mr. Ambrose advised that we have been put on notice that the County doesn't plan to provide Animal Control services. Cm. Houston questioned how the Police Services contract was structured with the Alameda County Sheriff's Department. He asked if the reductions would ever translate into savings for us. Mr. Ambrose stated we pay actual costs, plus overhead. If someone is hurt and unable to work, the County must replace them in 10 days, so that we are fully staffed, Our contract calls for a certain number of staff, and we are billed in accordance with that number. Under the Transportation budget, Cm. Moffatt asked if we could get out of mowing grass in the median strips by putting something else in there. Mr. Ambrose stated we could, but there would be a fairly expensive capital expense. CM - VOL 12 - 24~ Adjourned Regular Meeting June it 1993 Cm. Moffatt stated he was thinking we could convert it gradually as it needs replacement. Mr. Thompson stated usually with accidents which cause a need for replacement, we really don't get damage to the whole median. Staff could look at what it would cost to convert to another system should the Council so direct. Cm. Moffatt stated he just brought it up as a possibility. Cm. Burton questioned the status of the Heritage Center. Ms. Lowart advised that within the next week, she expected to have all the necessary documentation completed and to get all the agreements back signed. Cm. Moffatt asked about the possibility of having the School District share in the funding for the Dublin Fine Arts Foundation. Ms. Baer advised that she did not think the School District had any funding available for this kind of thing. Linda Jeffery advised that DFA does a lot more than just in the schools. Cm. Burton congratulated Staff on closing the refinancing of the Civic Center. Mr. Rankin pointed out the savings that could be realiZed by increasing the City's liability insurance deductible from $25,000 to $50,000. Ron Koutz, 8172 Vomac Road stated he had been a Dublin resident for about 26 years. He questioned the amount of space in the Civic Center building that is not being utilized. He asked what was going On with this. He thought the water district was going in there, but instead they built a new building. Mr. Ambrose explained that when we planned this facility, the possibility that someday we. would assume sewer and water services was considered, plus the projected growth in Dublin to the east and west. The extra space that we currentlY have is unfinished, and is about 4,900 sq. ft. This represents less than 10% of the building space. We do have throughout the building empty open areas or offices that we will be able to grow into in the future. Mr. Koutz referenced the one tenant that we lease space to; Congressman Baker. Mr. Ambrose pointed out that we currently maintain 5 buildings within the City. Mr. Koutz laughingly advised that the wind had been taken out of his sails. CM - VOL 12 - 247 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 Mr. Rankin advised that Staff had been working with Tax Counsel regarding what can be best and how much of the extra space we can actually rent out. There are certain restrictions. Mayor Snyder closed the public hearing. The Council discussed Item 7.c. of the Staff recommendation. "Determine course of action to be taken if State property tax shift and subsequent County Budget impacts are greater than or less than anticipated in Preliminary 1993-94 Budget. Options include: 1) Prioritize services to be reduced or restored; 2) Raise additional revenues; 3) Use of 1992-93 anticipated Fund Balance; and 4) Defer action until final impact is determined." By consensus, the Council agreed to defer this and bring it back when we know what happens in the future. Mr. Ambrose stated it was felt that the most recent State proposal would hurt counties more than cities. Cm. Burton congratulated Staff for all their hard work in putting the Budget together° On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by cm. Howard, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted RESOLUTION NO. 74 - 93 ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF DUBLIN FOR FISCAL YEAR 1993-94 In light of the fact that the City realized Savings from the refinancing, these funds will be used in lieu of implementing the assessment district and burdening Dublin's residents with this additional amount. Therefore, the item on the agenda related to this landscaping and lighting district Will no longer need to be discussed. 1993-94 APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT (330-20) Mr. Ambrose advised that State Law requires that each year the city calculate the proposed expenditures which are subject to the Appropriations Limit. The Council approved use of Dublin's population increase and increase in non-residential constrUCtion valuation in calculations of 1993-94 Appropriations Limit. On motion of Cm. Moffatt, seconded by Cm. Houston, and by unanimous vote, the Council adopted CM - VOL 12 - 248 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993 RESOLUTION NO. 75 - 93 ADOPTING THE BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT FOR FISCAL YEAR 1993-94 ($20,975,686) CLOSED SESSION At 11:07 p.m., the Council recessed to a closed executive session to discuss Potential Litigation (640-30), in accordance with Government Code Section 54956.9(b). * * · * ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to como before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 11:30 p.m. * * * J ~ 0 Cit~ ~ierk CM - VOL 12 - 249 Adjourned Regular Meeting June 1, 1993