HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 4.01 Draft Minutes 5-8-95 (2)
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REGULAR MEETING - MAY 8,1995
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Dublin was held on Monday, May 8,
1995, in the Council Chambers of the Dublin Civic Center. The meeting was called to order
at 7:02 p.m., by Mayor Houston.
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ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Council members Barnes, Burton, Howard, Moffatt and Mayor Houston.
ABSENT: None
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Houston led the Council, Staff and those present in the pledge of allegiance to the
flag.
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CLOSED SESSION ITEM ADDED TO AGENDA
7:04 p.m. 10.3 (600-30)
Mayor Houston announced the need for the City Council to add a closed session item to the
agenda. Pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2, subdivision (b){2), there is a need
to take immediate action for the full Council to meet pursuant to Government Code Section
54957.6 to give direction to the committee (consisting of the Mayor and Cm. Barnes) which
was appointed to negotiate with the City Manager regarding compensation; that the need
for action came to the attention of the City after the agenda was posted in the form of
information relative to compensation; that it is necessary to hold a closed session tonight in
order to have time to receive direction from the full Council, negotiate with the City
Manager and return to the full Council on a regularly scheduled agenda with a proposal for
amendment to the City Manager's employment agreement prior to the close of the current
fiscal year; and that the closed session be added to the Agenda as Item 10.3 pursuant to
Government Code Section 54957.6.
On motion of Mayor Houston, seconded by Cm. Burton, and by unanimous vote, the Council
added to agenda: Conference with Labor Negotiator (Government Code Section 54957.6)
- City Negotiators: Mayor Houston and em. Barnes - Unrepresented employee: City
Manager.
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ITEM NO.
4.1
COPIES TO:
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The Council will not consider closed session item 10.2.
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City Council Aoendas (610-101
Elliott Healy, 11362 Betlen Drive stated he came across a notice that the Pleasanton City
Council is starting to put their agenda highlights in the form of an announcement. This is a
good idea. Our City should televise this the same as Pleasanton. A lot of people are
completely unaware of what is happening in Dublin.
The Article was given to Mayor Houston.
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Comments on Hansen Hill Ranch Proiect (420-301
Chris Dynek, 11609 Amarillo Court stated they've been back in the Hansen Hills area and
there are a lot of animals. There are lots of oak trees that take hundreds of years to grow.
The animals range in size from insects to big animals. He has tracked a herd of deer all the
way from the creek to the top of the hill. He has seen red foxes and kit foxes and they are
endangered. He has also seen mallard ducks nesting back there.
Phillip Schaefer felt we should stop building on Hansen Hills so the wildlife will still be there for
the future of children. He has seen many beautiful animals running through the hills. If we
build we will destroy many of the animals' homes. Our future children should be able to
enjoy this. If we want to build something, we should build a national park for people to ride
horseback or go on vacation. We should remember who was here first and take this to
heart. He thanked the City Council for listening to his feelings about this issue.
Mayor Houston thanked the young men for their comments. He clarified that a public
hearing will be held later on the agenda related to the Hansen Hill Ranch project.
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Recoqnition of Veterans (610-501
Mayor Houston stated he wanted to recognize all our Veterans. Cm. Burton served in World
War II and he congratulated him and all others in the Tri-Valley.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
7:11 p.m.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Moffatt, and by unanimous vote, the Council
took the following actions:
Approved Minutes (4.1) of Regular Meeting of April 24, 1995;
Adopted (4.2 600-40)
RESOLUTION NO. 43 - 95
ADOPTING AN AGREEMENT FOR PARTICIPATION IN THE
ALAMEDA COUNTY OPERATIONAL AREA EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ORGANIZATION
(DISASTER PREPAREDNESS)
Approved an agreement (4.3 600-30) with Singer & Hodges, Inc., for Landscape
Architectural Services for the Dublin Sports Grounds Renovation, Phase I and approved a
Budget Change Form;
Approved an amendment to agreement (4.4 600-30) for Legal Services to reflect the
revised name of law firm and to increase the maximum amount of compensation on which
PERS contributions are based from $2,000 to $4,000 per month, and adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 44 - 95
DESIGNATING RICK W. JARVIS AS
DEPUTY CITY ATTORNEY
Awarded the bid (4.5 350-20) for Model 2028 ($7,389.15) and Model 6190 ($27,214.05)
Copiers to Astro Business Products of Dublin and authorized Staff to issue the necessary
Purchase Order; rejected all bids submitted for maintenance and authorized Staff to secure
these services pursuant to the City's purchasing procedures; adopted the Budget Change
Form; and adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 45 - 95
DECLARING SURPLUS PROPERTY
Photocopiers - Konica Model 2803 ($240) & Konica Model 7190 ($850)
Received the City Treasurer's Investment Report (4.6 320-30) as of April 30, 1995 showing the
City's investment portfolio of $21,675,322.74 with funds invested at an annual average yield
of 5.897%;
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Adopted (4.7 320-10)
RESOLUTION NO. 46 - 95
DESIGNATING 1 ST NATIONWIDE BANK AS THE PROVIDER OF
BANKING SERVICES FOR THE POLICE INVESTIGATION ACCOUNT
Awarded the bid (4.9 350-20) for an unmarked Police vehicle, a 1994 Ford Thunderbird to
Shamrock Ford for $14,938.50, and authorized Staff to issue a Purchase Order;
Approved the Warrant Register (4.10 300-40) in the amount of $539,211.07;
Dennis Fang, 7408 Hansen Drive requested that Item 4.8 (650-30) dealing with the March for
Jesus be pulled from the Consent Calendar. Mr. Fang stated he has lived here for about a
year and a halt, and he has enjoyed just about every day that his familY has lived here. He
was present to speak in support of the March for Jesus. It was in Livermore last year and it
was a very enjoyable experience. This is an activity where Christians like himself can get
together to enjoy something positive. Those who speak the name of Jesus Christ are there
to have a supportive and good time. This is a positive event. A lot of the news we receive is
negative. This is a remedy to all the sad news that comes to our community. Dublin is a city
characterized by the number of churches that it has. The City is a religious place and the
march is a consistent thing for the people in the City; it fits right in.
It will be held May 27, from 9 a.m. to about 1 p.m. People will start at Sierra Court near the
CrossWinds Church.
On motion of Cm. Moffatt, seconded by Cm. Barnes, and by unanimous vote, the City
Council approved the parade route (4.8 650-30) for the Tri-Valley March for Jesus Parade to
be held on May 27, 1995; waived the permit fee; authorized issuance of parade permit; and
approved a $2,100 additional appropriation for Public Works costs;
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PUBLIC HEARING - HANSEN RANCH GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT,
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT REZONING, AND TENTATIVE MAP AMENDMENT
7:16 p.m. 6.1 (420-30)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Ms. Huston presented the Staff Report, displayed overhead charts and slides of the subject
site.
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The Hansen Ranch subdivision, originally approved in 1989, involves 180 units on 147:!: acres
west of Silvergate Drive, north of Hansen Drive, and south of Rolling Hills Drive. California
Pacific Homes, Inc., has requested a General Plan Amendment. Planned Development
Rezoning, and Tentative Map Amendment for revisions to Phase II of the approved Hansen
Ranch subdivision. The amendments to the project would involve approximately 2.4 acres of
land redesignated from open space to residential land use, with 16 homesites relocated into
an oak/bay woodland area.
The land use designations approved for the site included:
. Low Density Single Family Residential (0.5 - 3.8 units per acre) ~ 57.2 acres (providing for 28
to 217 dwelling units)
. Open Space/Stream Corridor - 89.8 acres
The Open Space/Stream Corridor designation does not allow residential development. The
Dublin General Plan contains policies which require the City to: 1) prohibit development
within open space areas except development designed to enhance public safety and the
environmental setting; 2) allow roads to pass through open space areas provided that the
roads are designed to minimize grading to the maximum extent possible so as not to
damage the ecological or aesthetic value of the open space area; and 3) require
revegetation of cut and fill areas with native trees, shrubs and grasses.
The proposal was reviewed by the Planning Commission at a noticed Study Session on
April 17, and a Public Hearing on May 1, 1995. At that meeting, Ms. Buxton and her
development team disagreed with most of the findings in the Staff Report; however, they
did acknowledge several key points:
1. The proposal actually involves slightly more grading (0.96 acres more) and more
removal of oak/bay woodland (0.18 acres more) in the proposed homesite relocation area
than the approved plan;
2. The proposal is not consistent with Dublin General Plan policy 7.7.f, which reads:
"Prohibit development within designated open space areas except that designed to
enhance public safety and the environmental setting".
3. The area to be graded for the sewerline(shown as 6.6 acres near the Access Hiking
Trail on Limits of Grading Exhibit) was not shown on the approved tentative map because it
was unknown.
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After the close of the May 1 hearing, the Planning Commission adopted resolutions
recommending the City Council deny PA 95-007.
Staff analyzed the proposed project in terms of its relation to the City of Dublin General Plan,
as well as the significant environmental impacts which could result. The project's evaluation
included significant research into the history of the project and available documentation
regarding the significant issues. Several outside agencies were consulted to obtain
additional expertise and opinions. As a result of this analysis, Staff recommended that the
project be denied for the following reasons:
1. The proposed GPA to redesignate 2.4 acres (overall) from Open Space/Stream
Corridor to Low Density Single family Residential land use is inconsistent with several policies
of the Dublin General Plan that were intended to protect oak woodlands, natural habitats,
and aesthetic resources.
2. The relocation of 1 6 homesites into an environmentally sensitive area, which includes
oak woodlands and riparian habitat. would result in significant environmental impacts which
are greater than would occur under the previously approved plan.
3. The area where the 1 6 homesites are proposed was intended to be graded for a road
and to remain an open space area; it was not intended to be developed with 16 single-
family houses.
Staff presented the alternatives/options as defined in the Staff Report, including the project
as proposed or a revised project. If the City Council were to deny the amendments, the
project would revert back to the plan approved in 1989.
In summary, Staff recommended for the reasons explained in the analysis, that the City
Council adopt the Resolutions and Ordinance denying the General Plan Amendment, PD
Rezoning, and Tentative Map Amendment.
Ms. Huston stated on Friday, the Applicants met with Staff and presented an alternative
which Staff had not had a chance to review in depth.
Earlier in the day, a letter to Tasha Huston from Marti Buxton was delivered to the City
Council outlining their revisions to the Amended Tentative Map for Phase II. The letter stated:
"You have requested that I provide a written statement regarding the changes CPH proposes to make to the
Phase II Tentative Map/PD Rezoning Site Plan which will be considered by the City Council at the May 8
meeting. For the GPA, the approximately 2.4 acres of land (overal/) that wl71 be redesignated from open
space to residential land use wl71 remain the same.
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CPH proposes to relocate 6 of the lots within the area requiring the CPA to the area between lots 141 and 142
fronting Inspiration Drive (plan attached). The lots that would be relocated ore numbered 99, 98, 97, 96, 93
and 92 on the February 1995 submittal. Relocating these lots has two significantly positive impacts:
1. It maintains the 200 foot wide Riparian Corridor to ai/ow wIldlife passage os depicted on Attachment 4 of
the City CounCIl stoff report (see attached).
2. It is an improvement over the currently approved plan in that it allows the reconstruction of the seasonal
stream channel in the Riparian Corridor. The 1989 approved plan makes no provision for reconstructing the
stream channel because the drainage remains underground until it reaches Marlin Canyon Creek and the
grading contours ignore the natural, above-ground drainage now.
The area between lots 141 and 142 is an area that you mentioned at both the Planning Commission study
session and May 1 meeting os a potential site for relocating some of the 16 lots. It is 0 logical site because in
the 1989 approved plan there are lots in this same area. Placing lots in this area as approved in the 1989 plan
wIll result in 1.31 acres of reforested oak boy/woodland beyond what is currently proposed.
It was 0 pleasure working with you, Mr. Tong, Carol and Mr. Thompson today to develop 0 revised plan that is
actually better than the 1989 plan in that the Riparian Corridor can once again prOVIde a natural habitat. 11
Cm. Moffatt asked why the plan was changing and what the changes were.
Ms. Huston stated after the plan was approved they discovered an earthquake fault along
the road. Under the previously approved plan, the homesites were switched with the
location of the road. Other changes were to reduce the amount of grading and to
minimize some of the improvements in the area to allow for the number of homes.
Marti Buxton stated they have revised their plan and the analysis was given by Ms. Huston on
the previous plan. They have been processing this plan off and on for 6 years. They now
want to build it. They have come up with a better plan to soften the visual impact and save
the cost of grading. The crib walls were eliminated. A deep sewer requiring some access
roads were also eliminated. Other lots which probably would not be built for decades were
another reason. They are trying to make it more aesthetically pleasing and more
economically feasible. Wherever you go on the site, you have to have some compromises
and tradeoffs, or you won't be able to build. The 1989 approvals was in response to
compromises and tradeoffs. They moved 6 lots out of the riparian corridor. They got the
message loud and clear to open up the riparian corridor. They've been able to retain the
200' corridor. .
Ms. Buxton referenced the City Attorney's Memo to the Council which was included in the
packet. They have gained information over the last 8 years to bring forth a better plan. The
GP originally allowed collector streets in 3 different places. They moved their entrance over
closer to Hansen Drive. They are requesting that the City Council look at the overall good of
the project. A sheet out of their tentative map was passed out to the City Council showing
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the drainage plan. (No copy was provided to the City Clerk for inclusion in the record)
Under their new proposal. they opened up and recreated natural drainage and allowed a
seasonal stream to occur again. They worked with Staff to recreate the stream. This was a
compromise and tradeoff. The overall impacts of the plan must be considered. Ms. Buxton
indicated that several consultants were present to answer questions.
Cm. Burton asked why all of their maps show a bulb at the end of the street. This road must
be put in. He questioned the plan for extension.
Ms. Buxton stated they intend to build the road all the way to the end of the property line.
The Engineer showed it this way because they thought it would be a turn around for fire and
police. They would even be happy to put up a huge billboard saying there may be future
development there someday.
Cm. Burton stated he would not approve a final map until the road is shown. Four years
from now when they are selling the houses, people will say, look here, it shows on the map.
There should be no misunderstanding that the road will eventually connect to the Nielsen
property.
Mayor Houston asked if this is something that can be put in the title report.
Ms. Buxton felt this could be put in to run with the land.
Ms. Silver advised that a statement disclosing that this is dedicated right-of-way for street
purposes could be included.
Ms. Buxton stated they could go as far as what will be built to connect to a future
connection. There will have to be a substantial bridge to be able to connect.
Mayor Houston asked about the riparian habitat being the most discussed issue.
Ms. Buxton stated a 200' wide area is being opened for the animals to go right down the
riparian corridor. They have 320' on the other side of the lots and then there is another 100'
wide corridor. The grading issue is more than financial.
Priscilla Brown, Attorney for the Dublin Unified School District, indicated the EIR was prepared
in 1989 and the information was based on 1987 statistics. They had Murray School District
then and the Dublin Unified School District wasn't even in existence. The law says whenever
the City Council amends a GP you have to take the adequacy of the schools into account.
Even though there is no increase in the number of houses, circumstances have changed
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substantially. The facts are not the same. The Applicants are saying there is no additional
impact and this may be true in some respects. The adequacy of the schools must be taken
into account, however. The School District must point out that the facts surrounding this plan
are different today. This is part of the big picture in Dublin that population is increasing and
schools are in far different condition than they were back in 1987 and 1989.
Cm. Moffatt stated if the original plan was used and the project built under that approval,
her point would be mute.
Ms. Brown stated this opens a window of opportunity, and they need every opportunity they
can get. They feel that the portion of the EIR dealing with schools could be reexamined. If
you look at the facts today, the 16 houses will create more of a burden on the School District
than they did back in 1987.
Cm. Burton asked how many new houses are in the plan today versus what was in the old
plan.
Ms. Huston responded the number of units is 180 in the whole plan. This number has not
changed.
Mayor Houston read the statement from Chris Dynek who spoke earlier under Oral
Communications.
John Anderson 11174 Brittany Lane stated he wanted to talk about 3 points that impact this
change. He asked if they could legally talk about the latest change from the Applicant
since it had not gone before the Planning Commission.
Ms. Silver explained there was no increase in the number of units. It was to relocate 16 units.
The Applicant now wants to relocate 10 lots. The Planning Commission considered the
relocation of 16 lots so she felt the City Council could consider the relocation of 10 of the 16
lots. The Planning Commission recommended denial of relocation of 16 lots.
Mr. Anderson addressed development of the forested area. The open space would be
reduced by 2.4 acres. He stated his comments would all relate to the original 16 lots.
Mayor Houston pointed out that his numbers may not be applicable in light of the
Applicant's change.
Mr. Anderson stated in order to address the new plan, he would need time to review it.
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Cm. Burton pointed out there would be another public hearing for further discussion.
Ms. Silver stated it would depend on the action that the City Council takes tonight about
whether there will be another public hearing. What is before the City Council tonight is a
recommendation by the Planning Commission for denial, and the Applicant is proposing to
relocate only 10 units.
Mr. Anderson continued his comments about the greater woodlands providing greater
habitats for creatures. Two acres of riparian corridor was proposed to be disturbed. Six of
the homes are being drawn away from the original proposal. The remaining homes will still
impact this riparian habitat. Statistics were presented related to Martin Canyon Creek. The
required fill and placement of a 30" pipe separated and isolated the riparian corridor along
the tributary to Martin Canyon Creek. This was taken from the EIR. With regard to resource
management, the question becomes, how are we managing resources in Dublin? Our
resources are cash, people and the land that we have. From a safety standpoint. how do
we convince ourselves to go ahead and build homes in this earthquake area. With regard
to the vision for Dublin, we need to ask if this project is consistent with the General Plan. Staff
has pointed out that several of the GP policies are being violated. He questioned whether
building in this area is in the public interest.
Cm. Burton asked if he was against the whole project.
Mr. Anderson stated unfortunately he doesn't have any say about whether the old plan
goes forward or not. However, he is against the GP Amendment.
Cm. Moffatt asked if the City Council could somehow move this around to fit the GP, if he
would not be against the project?
Mr. Anderson stated the GP policies would have to be changed to fit the project. Staff has
cited the sections adequately.
David Bewley, 11166 Brittany Lane commented that Ms. Buxton stated the project was
adopted in 1989. If it were brand new, he felt it wouldn't fly. It is not appropriate to have
stub roads. People are quite sensitive to our hills. The direction now is apparently to go east.
This makes a statement as to how we manage our land. He would prefer to not see this
develop. We have plenty on our plate in developing to the east. He does not dispute their
rights and he is not arguing against development because it has already been decided.
The question becomes what damage will be done to the riparian corridor of some
significance to our area. The City Council must have overriding facts to amend or do away
with the prior consideration on this project. He has not heard any facts stated that show that
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consistent with the riparian corridor. He did not feel they could say there are any facts.
Sixteen homes apparently can't be developed because they found an earthquake fault.
Will this prevent the development? This should not preclude the development. It will cost
out differently, but he felt Dublin could absorb this. What is overriding here? Where are the
facts? Nothing has been presented. We must examine the circumstances of where we will
put homes. To grant this without a lot of defendable facts could lead people to say that
future developments could occur with modifications on an as needed basis to
environmental considerations and other developers could come back and make changes.
The citizens will be required to closely monitor what is happening. It will create a
precedence. Wide latitude does not mean you can disregard the facts. He asked that the
City Council follow the Planning Commission's overwhelming denial of the project.
Mayor Houston asked that the slide again be displayed showing the riparian corridor.
Marjorie LaBar. 11707 Juarez Lane stated she has been with this project since 1986 when
Gordon Jacoby made presentations. They argued about every single tree and every single
canyon. She has great difficulty in accepting that grading for a 40' road somehow makes
the 7,000' lots available. She suggested that grading along the cul-de-sac should be done
once when the bridge is put in. It is an extremely sensitive area. Record an easement and
the issues of grading should be assigned where they properly belong. A mitigation tradeoff
is not possible on this project. The developer has at least made some effort at moving the
lots. They have had very little time to review what the issues are. She asked that the City
Council either deny at this time or delay until the real implications can be taken care of. The
tradeoff in grading and riparian corridors are like comparing applies to oranges. It will take
hundreds of years to restore the quality of the riparian habitat. Relocation has nothing to do
with the earthquake zone; it has to do with the fact that the developers don't want to
spend a fortune on grading and she did not blame them. Please don't force massive
grading in this area more than once. She clarified that she is not advocating a land lock.
Mayor Houston asked if the riparian corridor is a definable object. He questioned if it is
interpreted differently by different agencies.
Ms. LaBar explained where a lot of damage would occur.
Cm. Burton referenced the map delivered today. He did not see the creek in the contour
lines. It is a secondary seasonal drain.
Ms. LaBar stated in California most of the riparian habitat is only seasonal.
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Ms. Huston responded to the definition of the riparian corridor. The actual definition of
riparian is defined as a waterway. The riparian corridor defined in the EIR is that area within
100' setback of the seasonal creek. It is a 200' wide segment with the creek running in the
middle.
Cm. Barnes asked if the new drawing maintains the corridor.
Mayor Houston noted there are 2 and stated he assumed the higher up you go the wider it
will be.
Ms. Huston stated the EIR identified only one corridor and the Martin Canyon Creek corridor.
There is also a great area of oak woodlands.
Elliot Healy, Betlen Drive stated he would like to know if there was anyone on the City
Council who has never walked and hiked up in the canyon. With the change presented
tonight, it is difficult for citizens to fully understand what is going on and when an
amendment to permit or deny 16 homes comes in, it gets really confusing. He stated he
spent a lot of time trying to educate himself on what was involved. We are now changing
the ballgame. The developer is asking for approval tonight without the citizens really
understanding what the hell is going on. He stated he would be absolutely stunned if the
City Council does not have a hearing on specifically what their plan is to be. It's fine to
come back with a new plan, but for the City Council to have the information before them
for only a few days, how can they make an educated decision. Cm. Barnes and Cm.
Moffatt were in on this plan in 1989 and they know how the people came out to the
hearings. They felt this was a reasonable compromise. Open space is very important to the
citizens of Dublin. Consider the Eden Development fiasco. Most people felt the City Council
was not in touch with the citizens. He did not feel that any of the 16 homes should be in the
corridor. He thanked the young men who spoke earlier and stated he appreciated the fact
that young people will speak up.
Ms. Huston responded to a couple of issues which were brought up. The question of the
main overriding concern raised by Staff and the Planning Commission, she clarified that
there was not one main concern, but rather several concerns were brought up. The riparian
habitat was brought up as well as the loss of oak woodlands, blocking wildlife between
open space areas and visual impacts of grading. Another significant issue was the loss of
open space, especially in the vicinity of the public creek hiking trail. An exhibit was shown
displaying the Applicant's proposed change. Staff identified that 6 of the lots would require
a significant amount of grading not approved under the original tentative map.
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Ms. Huston displayed a summary chart listing what Staff identified as the main issues. There
are 5 main issues remaining with both the 16 and the 10 lot proposal, including: loss of
riparian habitat; wildlife movement; loss of trees overall; open space; and visual (grading of
knolls).
Mayor Houston questioned in going from 16 to 10, how the open space loss could be
exactly the same?
Ms. Huston explained that the 2.4 acres is a net figure.
Wildlife Biologist Malcolm Sproul stated with regard to the riparian corridor it's best to speak
to what is in the GP. A number of species grow because of the amount of moisture. Another
is clearly a drainage. The 1989 plan which was approved, approved a roadway connecting
two phases of the development. Both plans completely block the riparian corridor and both
place major fills and significant tree removal. It will place a connecting corridor as shown on
the GP.
Cm. Burton asked if the contour map shows after the grading is done.
Mr. Sproul stated it is conceptual only at this time.
Cm. Moffatt asked about lots 88,89,90 and 91 which project down toward Martin Canyon
Creek. He thought this would be a natural runway for wildlife. Will this slow down the
migration of animals.
Mr. Sproul stated there are native species of mammals and birds, and there is sufficient area
for all to move in and around Martin Canyon Creek.
Bob Leever, Engineer discussed the topo map.
Cm. Howard asked for more information about the reasons for removing the 6 houses. What
was the problem with those?
Mr. Leever stated it deals mostly with the knolls. The knoll is a natural 4 to 1 slope. You get to
a point where you would have to regrade the whole hill.
Ms. Buxton elaborated further on this question. She stated she also wanted to correct a fact
about the 900' open space. They have over 600' of opening versus the 900' that was there.
They have disagreements about Staff's charges about greater and less. The open space is
land use designation. She referenced Staff's 4 concerns. They would mitigate loss of oak
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woodlands as required. Overall they have opened up the part that they were told is the
most important part and that is the riparian corridor. The overall concept with the changes
they've made they believe is a better project than what is currently approved.
Ms. Buxton corrected facts made by Ms. Brown, DUSD. She took 4 significant pages from
their master plan related to impacts on elementary, middle and high school. The EIR
analyzed and approved up to 222 homes, so the number of homes that could have been
approved was substantially more. The student generation figure and school capacities were
discussed.
Mr. Healy stated for the benefit of the citizens present, it should be pointed out there are
some statements from the Fish & Game about what is and isn't good about building in the
habitat area. Their expert is in their hire, which is within their rights. There is no one present
however from Fish & Game to speak to their comments. He noted on their original plan the
location of some of the homes and a location where there is a big window where no homes
will be located. Some of the homes were like a sore thumb in the area where they were
proposed. When people spend a lot of time at hearings and something is decided, they
feel this is what it is. The developer then comes back and throws another angle at it. He
hoped the City Council would not make a decision tonight because the citizens have not
had a chance to go through all this.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
Cm. Burton stated he felt this was pretty serious and he wanted to support the idea of
denying the proposal and agree with the Planning Commission and send it back to the
Planning Commission. He is not against the project, but there deserves to be a new process
with the latest changes. A lot of people are concerned. This is too significant a change for
the City Council to just step in at this time.
Cm. Howard stated she agreed.
Mayor Houston commented on the options provided.
Cm. Burton stated he felt there were so many loose ends and he felt it had been slipshod.
There is not an overhead of what they are proposing. It has been very difficult for the public
to follow what is being considered. Send it back to the Planning Commission to come
forward with what they feel is the best plan.
Cm. Barnes stated she felt to deny it would be premature. There is room for compromise.
Once it's built, this is forever. She hoped they would always be open to compromise. She
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would like more input before it is denied. She questioned if they could refer it back to the
Planning Commission.
Ms. Silver stated they could refer it back to the Planning Commission or could take action to
relocate 16 lots or a lesser number of lots within the same area.
Mayor Houston referenced recent history with PETCO where they got together with Staff to
work out a plan. Not closing the doors is very important. He did not feel that anyone was in
favor of the 16 lot proposal but the 10 lot deserves looking into.
Cm. Burton felt the denial was that 16 lots is not acceptable. The new information should be
addressed separately.
Mr. Ambrose pointed out another aspect of the issue is some of the options result in a little
more finality. If the City Council denies the application, they must come back with a whole
new proposal. They could either refer it back to the Staff or the Planning Commission with
specific areas of concern which are important so those areas can be focused on. Then the
applicant could focus on those areas.
Cm. Moffatt felt it was generally agreed that the City Council could reopen it and see what
direction they want it to go. He personally had a problem with the 16 homes and also the
access road could perhaps be put someplace else. There must be other areas that we
could desensitize it and have a project as good as the one approved in 1989. He suggested
they take another look and send it back to the Planning Commission. He was not in favor of
the location of the 16 homes and suggested that they look at moving the access road
along Martin Canyon Creek.
Mayor Houston stated he would like to have them look at the 10 lot alternative, look at
alternatives for the road and of primary importance. protect the riparian habitat corridor,
and extension of road issue. Have the Planning Commission look at these 3 issues.
Cm. Barnes stated she could go along with this.
Ms. Buxton stated they need to make a decision about whether to start. She asked if the
City Council could leave the public hearing open to allow further input. She asked if Staff
could work with the Applicant.
Cm. Moffatt stated it would go to the Planning Commission and then back to the City
Council.
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Cm. Burton stated they brought forth a new plan just a few days ago and it should go back
before the Planning Commission.
Ms. Buxton reminded that they got a denial to Phase II from the Planning Commission. They
are limited in time and the building season is limited. She stated she hoped the City Council
would continue the public hearing.
Mayor Houston stated he had no problem with it coming back directly to the City Council.
Cm. Burton stated he felt strongly that it should go back to the Planning Commission. He felt
sorry for the developer, but they could have brought this plan to the Planning Commission.
Ms. Huston stated it would help Staff if there were clarification on other issues identified by
Staff. These were wildlife movement, loss of trees, and the loss of open space in general.
Cm. Moffatt felt that by looking at the sensitive areas these would be addressed.
Mr. Ambrose clarified that the area of focus is the area where the lots are. He clarified the
area of concern on the map.
Cm. Barnes stated she was worried about people talking about a lot of different things.
Putting in a road all the way around will cause a lot of trees to have to be removed.
Everyone should remember certain facts. She clarified that Ms. Huston commented on
some of the slides that no matter what happens, a lot of the trees will be removed. This has
already been approved. We should keep talking. If it is going to take so much time,
perhaps it should come back directly to the City Council.
Mr. Ambrose stated the City Council could continue this public hearing and refer it to Staff to
review and flush out all the issues and then it could be brought back to the City Council.
Ms. Buxton stated there is a grading window this construction season. If you miss the window,
the City Council will be looking at this project again next year.
Although the public hearing had already been closed, Mike Erving pointed out on the map
another area which would mean a significant loss of trees.
Cm. Burton asked if there is a way this can go before the Planning Commission without
delaying it.
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On motion of Cm. Barnes, seconded by Cm. Howard, and by majority vote, the Council
agreed to continue the public hearing to the May 22 City Council meeting with direction to
Staff to review the 10 lot alternative, stressed the major importance of the riparian corridor,
and also the issue of the road. Cm.'s Burton and Moffatt voted against this motion.
...... ......HH.+..
PUBLIC HEARING - REVISION TO ENCROACHMENT FEE SCHEDULE (FEE FOR PERMIT TO
INSTALL BANNER ON CITY BANNER POLES) AND MODIFICATION TO CITY BANNER POLICY
10:01 p.m. 6.2 (270-10)
Mayor Houston opened the public hearing.
Public Works Director Thompson presented the Staff Report and stated during Fiscal Year
1992-93, the Council determined that as a cost-saving measure to discontinue issuance of
permits to non-profit organizations for use of the City's banner poles on San Ramon Road. At
the time the service was discontinued, the average cost for the City's maintenance crew to
install and remove a banner was approximately $400.
Mr. Thompson explained that the adopted permit fee for use of the banner poles is $50. At
the time that permit issuance was discontinued, the City Council specified that an
organization could pay the entire cost of installation. With the recent Rowell Ranch Rodeo
request discussion, the City Council directed Staff to prepare a revised banner policy and
revised fee schedule to reflect two options: 1) the applicant could pay the entire cost of
installation/maintenance/removal by the City's maintenance crew; or 2) the applicant
could provide a professional installer which met insurance and traffic control requirements.
;~
'.;~
Mr. Thompson stated the $50 fee is proposed to remain as a processing fee, whether the
applicant chooses to have the City install the banner or provides their own installer. If the
applicant chooses to have the City crew install the banner and pay the actual cost of the
work, it is proposed to require a $500 deposit to cover the cost. If the cost is less than $500,
the balance of the deposit would be returned to the applicant. If the cost exceeds $500,
the applicant would be billed for the balance of the cost.
Mr. Thompson stated if the applicant chooses to use a professional installer, the installer
would be required to provide the same insurance coverage as the applicant, and name the
City as an additional insured. The applicant's insurance would cover the banner
construction, and the installer's insurance would cover the work being performed in the
public right-of-way and the physical installation of the banner. In addition, the installer
would need to provide a traffic control plan for City Staff approval prior to performing the
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work and would be required to sign an agreement to provide interim maintenance of the
banner in the event of wind damage.
Mr. Thompson summarized by saying while many non-profit organizations would not be able
to pay the actual cost of installation by the City crew, it is possible that some of the
organizations could get a professional installer at a reduced price or as donated labor.
Therefore, this change may allow more organizations to take advantage of this advertising
location.
Cm. Burton stated he agreed that this makes a lot of sense.
No testimony was entered by any member of the public relative to this issue.
Mayor Houston closed the public hearing.
On motion of Cm. Burton, seconded by Cm. Moffatt, and by unanimous vote, the Council
adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 47 - 95
ADOPTING FEE SCHEDULE FOR ENCROACHMENT PERMITS
(REVISION TO FEE FOR USE OF CITY'S BANNER POLES)
and
RESOLUTION. NO. 48 - 95
ADOPTING POLICY FOR USE OF CITY BANNER POLES
ON SAN RAMON ROAD
nnnnnnn nnnn.~,
GRAFFITI TASK FORCE REPORT
10:04 p.m. 8.1 (530-20)
Management Assistant Barker presented the Staff Report and advised that in August, 1994, a
Graffiti Task Force was formed with a goal of reviewing ways of eliminating graffiti in the
community as quickly as it is put up. The Task Force reviewed 3 program areas: Eradication,
Enforcement and Education, as well as issues and costs involved in each program area. The
recommended actions impact different City departments, including: City Attorney,
Administrative Services, Police, Public Works and Planning. The total cost to implement all
programs discussed in the Staff Report is estimated to be approximately $52,000 in Staff time
and new costs.
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Mr. Barker stated the Graffiti Task Force spent a considerable amount of time and effort
discussing the issues. Additionally, the Task Force discussed specific issues with the District
Attorney's Office and the City Attorney to be in a position of recommending solutions that
make practical and legal sense to implement. The recommendations listed in the report are
the result of considerable debate and dialogue designed to build consensus among the
diverse participants.
Mr. Barker stated due to costs and other organizational issues, Staff recommended that the
City Council deliberate on the Task Force recommendations and identify which programs
should be incorporated as higher service levels for consideration during the 1995-96 budget
hearings.
Several slides were shown illustrating the problem with graffiti in Dublin.
Bob Trimble, Chairman of the Task Force assured everyone that there really is a cancer
growing in Dublin called graffiti. They don't want to call these people artists; they are
vandals. Graffiti does accumulate and it does grow. He recently went out with Sgt.
DiFranco and they took over 200 pictures during a 5 hour field trip showing graffiti. He urged
the City Council to walk very softly but carry a big stick. Walk softly because we have to be
careful about publicity that can come out of decisions and recognition given to these
people. We don't want to allow them any publicity whatsoever. We want the punishment
mechanism to be there. He thanked City Staff, particularly Bo Barker and Mr. Ambrose and
Chief Rose, Lt. Gomes, and many others.
Cm. Burton commented they had done a good job. He asked if there is anything that has
been suggested related to getting in touch with absentee landlords.
Mr. Trimble commented that this was one of their major stumbling blocks, but he thought
there was some information on this.
Mayor Houston relayed a situation where a city adopted an ordinance and the taggers
retaliated.
Mr. Trimble stated this is called bombing. As citizens we need to be more vigilant than we've
ever been. People standing around and seemingly doing nothing should get our attention.
It goes on mostly midnight to 6 a.m., although several have been arrested during broad
daylight. Once we publicize that we are serious about dealing with graffiti the mechanism
must be in place to deal with it.
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Mr. Barker displayed an overhead "Summary of the Graffiti Task Force Recommendations
and Costs". Eight recommendations were shown.
Cm. Howard asked who people would call right now to report graffiti.
Mr. Barker stated someone would call 911 to report if they see someone spraying.
Mr. Rankin stated a non emergency call could go to dispatch at 462-1212.
Mayor Houston commented that he had a business over in San Francisco several years ago
and immediately removed any graffiti that was put on. What about the places like the light
poles where someone won't get out there that day. Can the City go onto someone's
property and take care of it?
Mr. Barker stated most business owners want to remove it immediately. To enter private
property we need property owner permission, which means a release. If the City were to do
it there would be additional workers' compensation issues to resolve. We want to make it
the property owner's responsibility to remove it. Although there is no perfect answer,
through the volunteer program and the GRAVE program are mechanisms we can institute to
take care of irradication. The light poles will soon belong to the City. Zone 7 canals have a
lot of graffiti. This might be another good area for the GRAVE program to address.
Mayor Houston commented he had read about different kinds of paint you can put on
buildings that make it more difficult to stick.
~ Mr. Barker stated you apply the material and then you take a solvent. but if it gets tagged
twice you have to redo it. It's very expensive. Our maintenance department felt it might
not be cost efficient for us at this time. Other cities are using this in certain high and harder to
reach places.
Mr. Ambrose stated he had some experience with this down in Southern California and it is
very expensive. About 16 years ago, it was about $100 per gallon.
Cm. Moffatt commented over in Livermore at the toxic waste center, there is some real
inexpensive paint. With regard to implementation and developing an ordinance, the
League of California Cities has a whole computer full of ordinances such as this. We could
probably get a disc with 300 or 400 ordinances anclthen pick and choose. He noted when
he had his business, a kid broke one of his $700 plate glass windows and his homeowners
insurance paid for it. Another avenue would be to use the small claims court.
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Cm. Burton asked if there was anything going through the courts about restriction to free
speech.
Ms. Silver stated she was not aware of any cases.
Mayor Houston stated a while back the City of Livermore was talking about having each city
work cooperatively to hire someone for 2 or 3 cities. He asked if this was reviewed?
Mr. Barker stated they first must differentiate between private and public property. It is the
private property owner's responsibility to remove it from their property. MCE proposes
looking at potentially buying special equipment or at hiring a contractor to remove all
graffiti. This is something that we will continuously evaluate. The cost of contracting out at
this time exceeds what we can have MCE do it for.
Cm. Barnes admitted she was the one who asked where the graffiti is. The School District is
very good about removing graffiti immediately. She asked about private homes, fences,
cars, etc.
Mr. Barker stated the majority of graffiti is in the commercial districts.
Mr. Ambrose stated this has become somewhat of a free speech issue. Up in the Briarhill
area a neighbor retaliated against another neighbor by writing something on their own
fence.
Mr. Rankin stated fences in homes typically face a street and our property maintenance
ordinance can address it.
Cm. Moffatt asked if we could get permission through the business license process.
Mr. Ambrose stated he wasn't sure the city could afford this. Right now we don't have
anybody to go through the property tax roles and locate people and ask them to take care
of clean up. A last resort would be for us to clean it up through the public nuisance process.
Cm. Barnes stated she likes the idea of a graffiti brochure. We should put in how much it
costs the City to take care of graffiti. These figures are shocking. How do we intend to get
the brochure out?
Mr. Barker stated we will use the resources of our crime prevention unit, the neighborhood
watch, merchant's alert program, etc.
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Mayor Houston stated he would like everything put in for consideration at budget time.
Cm. Burton asked about some type of a reward system.
Lt. Gomes commented that he knew of a city in Southern California that has a large amount
of money in a reward fund and they've paid out only about $100.
Cm. Barnes stated if judges aren't hearing these cases, then we aren't getting any
prosecutions so there are no rewards being paid out.
By a consensus, the Council agreed that Staff should put all costs in for consideration during
the 1995-96 Budget deliberations.
The City Council thanked members of the Task Force for their help.
. .................. ~ ,......... ......... ...
OTHER BUSINESS
10:45 p.m.
Upcominq Meetinq Reminders (610-051
Mr. Ambrose reported that the DRFA meeting of May 15 which was going to be canceled
may now need to be held.
Cm. Barnes stated this will be a problem for her as she has to be some place else at 7:30
p.m.
...........................~,...................
Earthquake Preparedness Maps (520-301
Cm. Howard asked if the City will be getting some of the revised earthquake maps.
Mr. Thompson stated we probably could get a supply.
Cm. Howard stated they show where potential damage would be.
Mr. Rankin stated he passed some information to Rose Macias.
..........................+............................
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Police Statistics (580-60)
Cm. Barnes reported that she put her last Police Report away for safe keeping and now
can't find it. She would like to know if the Police Department could do a little research on
car burglaries and damage, if it is done night or day. This may be an area we need to start
beefing up.
Lt. Gomes stated the majority of burglaries occur during hours of darkness and in commercial
areas or apartments. As much as we get hit. surrounding cities get hit at least twice as much.
.........................................~..........
Upcominq Meetinqs (610-051
Cm. Burton asked if the school liaison meeting scheduled for May 17 at 3:30 p.m., could be
rescheduled. He wants to participate in the Rowell Ranch Rodeo activities and the timing
will be difficult.
Mayor Houston felt this was an important meeting, but it could be rescheduled. The Facilities
Task Force will meet on May 11 and will be discussing the gymnasium project. He asked Staff
to check to see if the school liaison meeting could be scheduled for Monday or Tuesday,
May 15 or 1 6.
,uuu.~ .u.......u
Community TV Live Call-In Show (1050-501
The Council discussed the CTV30 live call-in show that Channel 30 wants to schedule. The
Council determined that everyone would be available on Wednesday, June 21, except for
Cm. Burton.
Staff was directed to notify CTV30 to schedule the event on June 21, 1995.
.......................... +...u......
Rotary Club Sponsorinq Circus (950-40)
Cm. Burton reported that on Memorial day weekend, there will be a circus in Dublin. It will
be at Camp Parks on Sunday and Monday. Tickets are $4.00 and it is a fund-raiser for the
Rotary Club, so money will go back into the community.
......uuuuuuu.~. ...uuu...
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Sub-Reoional Pilot Planninq Proiect (140-10)
Cm. Moffatt stated they had a meeting of the Tri-Valley Planning Committee and issues
related to the regional planning strategy. Copies were given to the City Council on urban
growth lines. The City Council should mark those areas they wish to talk about in order to
help facilitate the discussion. Any additional issues they want to discuss should be plugged
in.
.n nnnnnnnn..+....
Meetino Reports (610-05)
Cm. Moffatt stated he had attended the Tri-Valley Business Association meeting and a
synopsis was available on what Delaine Eastin is proposing for education in California.
.... .. .n....~...
CLOSED SESSION
At 11 :01 p.m., the Council recessed to a closed session to discuss:
10.1 (640-30)
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation - Government Code Section
54956.9(a): Myers et al vs. City of Dublin, Alameda County Superior Court Action No. V-
008171-9.
10.2 CANCELED (600-30)
Personnel - Public Employee Performance Evaluation: City Manager - Government Code
Section 54957.
10.3 (Added) (600-30)
Conference with Labor Negotiator (Government Code Section 54957.6) - City Negotiators:
Mayor Houston and Cm. Barnes - Unrepresented employee: City Manager.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ACTION
City Attorney Silver announced that no action was taken in closed session.
.......................+......
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ADJOURNMENT
11 :30 p.m. 11.1
There being no further business to come before the Council. the meeting was adjourned at
11 :30 p.m.
..................+-..
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
'PPPPPPPPP.+-p
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