HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-21-1992 City Council Minutes MINUTES
SI~TO~A CITY COUNCIL
TIME: Wednesday, October 21, 1992 - 7:30 p.m.
PLACE: Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Ave.
TYPE: Regular Meeting
Mayor Anderson noted she and Fire Chief Ernie Kraule attended a Fire
Prevention Seminar. She noted they received many ideas to implement
in Saratoga. She stated people from all over California attended this
Seminar and it was a very worthwhile event. She noted a woman, whose
husband was killed in the fire, spoke and gave everyone attending a
daffodil, noting a daffodil came up in the spot were her husband died.
She wanted to remind everyone that daffodils are for new life. Mayor
Anderson stated she would like to plant this daffodil at City Hall as
a symbol of Saratoga's Commitment to becoming a fire safe City. Mayor
Anderson stated she would like to say the Pledge of Allegiance in the
Memory of those who died in the Oakland fire.
Pledge of Allegiance
1. ROLL CALL
Councilmembers Present: Burger, Tucker, Monia, Kohler, Mayor Anderson
Staff Present: City Manager Peacock, City Attorney Riback, City
Engineer Perlin.
2. CEREMONIAL ITEMS - None.
3. ROUTINE MATTERS
A. Approval of Minutes - 10/6; 10/7
MONIA/KOHLER MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF 10/6. Passed 5-0.
Councilmember Burger made the following correction to the minutes of
10/7: Page 11, 2nd paragraph from bottom, "...will be..." should be
changed to "...have been..."
KOHLER/MONIA MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF 10/7, AS CORRECTED.
PASSED 5-0.
B. Approval of Warrant List
MONIA/BURGER MOVED TO APPROVE THE WARRANT LIST. PASSED 5-0.
C. Report of City Clerk on Posting of Agenda
Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was
properly posted on October 16.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Planning Commission Actions, 10/14 - Noted and filed.
B. Heritage Commission Minutes, 9/2; 9/16 - Noted and filed.
C. Public Safety Commission Minutes, 10/12 - Noted and filed.
D. (See below)
E. l%mendment to Eakone Foundation Loan Agreement concerning
Interest Rate
F. Resolution 92-005.1amending CooperativeAgreement with Ca1
Trans for Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road Median Improvements,
Capital Project No. 924
G. Resolution 91-46.14 amending budget to take account of
State budget reductions
H. Resolution 91-46.13 amending budget to fund an after-
City Council Minutes 2 October 21, 1992
school Sports Program at Redwood School
I. Resolution 91-46.15 amending budget to provide funds for
bandstand in Wildwood Park approved 10/7
J. Adoption of CDBG County/City Contract for FY 1992-93
K. Quarterly Report from City Engineer on Departmental
Operations - Continued to 11/4.
Councilmember Monia requested the removal of item 4D.
TUCKER/BURGER MOVED TO AppROVETHE CONSENT CALENDAR, WITH THEEXCEPTION
OF 4D. PASSED
D. Adoption of Family Leave Policy
Councilmember Monia stated there needs to be clarification regarding
the following paragraph "Family leave will not be granted for any
period of time in which the child's other parent is also taking family
care leave from employment or is unemployed." He stated this is in
conflict with the policy. He stated it is not intended to mean an
unemployed person who is ill.
City Manager Peacock stated he will clarify this.
MONIA/BURGER MOVED TO APPROVE ITEM 4D. PASSED
5. COMMUNICATION8 FROM COMMISSIONS AND THE PUBLIC
A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Mayor Anderson stated she received a phone call from Colonel Barco
commending the Community Service Officers in pursuing the sign
ordinance and also the clean up of trash on the property on Allendale.
Mr. Jim Lavin, 15450 Pepper Ln., stated he received a letter from Lee
Lesh of the International Consulting Arborist Inc. Mr. Lavin read the
letter into the record and presented a copy to the Councilmembers.
City Manager Peacock indicated a letter from Mayor Anderson had been
sent to Mr. Lesh responding to his concern.
Mr. Tom Reddick, 12389 Lerchmont Ave., expressed concern about the
emergency station not being in working condition when Saratoga had the
fire. He stated he was informed that emergencies can be signalled by
handling the system manually. Mr. Reddick also expressed concern about
the contamination of the Saratoga Creek and no response from staff.
Mayor Anderson stated the Fire Chief informed her that the emergency
system is fairly new and he has to familiarize himself with it.
City Manager Peacock stated the station can be reprogrammed manually,
but is designed to program automatically. He stated if there is an
emergency it can be accessed through mobile phones by the fire or
Sheriff's departments. He stated that City staff did discuss using it
during the fire. Mr. Peacock stated there are certain people who are
trained to use the system. He also noted he did meet with the Sheriff
and Fire Departments to discuss the communications system. He stated
the telephone system is being changed to prevent the kind of failure
which occurred from happening again.
Councilmember Burger stated this is a good'subject for a study session.
Mayor Anderson stated there needs to be good communication as to who
is responsible for certain actions.
Councilmember Kohler expressed concern about the phone system going
down. Staff should be trained to operate the system effectively.
Mr. Jeff Schwartz stated the emergency system can be accessed from a
command post if people remember to .use it. He stated the City should
not rely on the phone system.
City Council Minutes 3 October 21, 1992
Mr. Whetstone asked why he did not receive a response to his letter
dated July 22 to the City Manager and also noted his letter to the City
dated September 18 was also ignored. He expressed concern about
children playing in the creek if it is contaminated. He expressed
concern about the staff report regarding this matter, discussed at the
last meeting.
Mayor Anderson stated this matter will be on the next agenda.
Mr. John Di Manto, 1210 Coleman, Santa Clara, representing San Jose
Construction, noted he received notice regarding possible violation on
how his project is being managed. He noted he did talk to the City
Manager regarding this matter and also talked to Mr. Oncay. Mr. Di
Manto stated he also talked to Mr. Riback who advised him to talk under
Oral Communications. He stated the job has been cleaned up, but they
do not have a trash bin. Mr. Di Manto also expressed concern about
lumber being stored on Fourth Street. He stated they need the ability
to store lumber adjacent to the project for a few weeks, they need a
bin and also storage space.
City Engineer Perlin stated he will be happy to meet with Mr. Di Manto
and work something out. He feels this does not require a policy
change.
B. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1) Bill Liu, 20291 Merrick Lane, concerning racism in
Saratoga
Mr. Bill Liu, 20291 Merrick Ln., stated there are very few Asians who
exercise their opinion at the City Council meetings. He expressed
concern about the lack of Asian officers on the Police Force and
tension between the Asian community and the police. He stated he would
like the City Council to consider hiring an Asian Policy Officer who
will be understanding in dealing with the Asian community.
Mayor Anderson stated that Mr. Liu's concerns and suggestion will be
forwarded to the Sheriff.
Councilmember Monia stated the Sheriff should look into this matter.
Councilmember Kohler stated that maybe an officer can be moved from
another district to serve Saratoga, it would then not be necessary to
hire an officer.
Councilmember Burger stated the City does not have jurisdiction over
the Sheriff's Department.. She stated the City has to be careful that
this issue does not get blown out of proportion. She stated it is
important to look at this issue from all sides. The City Manager was
directed to communicate to Sheriff Gillingham regarding the desire to
have an Asian deputy assigned to Saratoga if possible.
2) Memo from Planning Director concerning date and time
for joint study session with Planning Commission
There was a consensus of the Council to reschedule the joint study
session with the Planning Commission to early December.
Mayor Anderson stated she received a letter from Shirley Sisk, ABAG,
asking for comments on ABAG's proposal for. regional government.
The Council agreed to allow the person attending the meeting to comment
based on the City's established position on regional government.
6. OLD BUSINESS
A. Letter from Senior Programs Director concerning Request
for Financial Assistance of $10,802.50 by West Valley
College for Older Adult Classes (from 7/15 meeting)
City Manager Peacock stated SASCC are offering to take this program
over and staff supportthis. He noted it will be dropped from the City
programs.
City Courtoil Minutes 4 october 21, 1992
There was a consensus of the Council to accept SASCC's offer.
B. Resolution aocepting offer of dedication of Pedestrian and
Equestrian Easement at Saratoga countr~ Club (oontinued
from 10/7)
Staff recommends that the City Council 1) Adopt resolution; 2) Direct
Parks and Recreation Commission to develop a standard trail development
condition.
City Manager Peacock presented the staff report dated October 21, 1992.
Mr. William Brooks stated he is in support of the staff report and
would encourage one more step on the check list. He suggested there
be a policy requirement that each department notified of the
application should respond in writing. He feels this will prevent any
information being missed.
City Manager Peacock spoke in favor of Mr. Brooks' suggestion and
stated there should be a response from every agency.
TUCKER/BURGER MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 92-069 ACCEPTING OFFER OF
DEDICATION WITH THE ADDITIONAL CHECK LIST ITEM AS SUGGESTED BY MR.
BROOKS. PA8SED 5-0.
TUCKER/BURGER MOVED TO DIRECT PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION TO
DEVELOP A STANDARD TRAIL DEVELOPMENT CONDITION. PASSED 5-0.
C. Warner Hutton House Landscaping - Approval of plan and
authorization to solicit bids
Staff recommends that the City Council review and approve the final
plan and authorize staff to solicit bids for the work.
City Engineer Perlin presented the staff report dated October 21, 1992.
He stated this was reviewed by the Heritage Commission who recommends
Council approval. He stated the plan also has received Cal-Trans'
approval of the State Historic Preservation Office.
Mr. Jim Hemmann, Landscape Architect, stated this will be Queen Ann
garden style and drought tolerant plants will be used. Mr. Hemmann
went on the explain the planting and layoutof the garden. In response
to Councilmember Tucker's question, Mr. Hemmann stated they are using
the decomposed granite to keep the historical look of the site.
In response to Councilmember Kohler's question, City Manager Peacock
stated the Traffic Authority will pay for this after the bids are in.
He stated the landscaping was in the agreement, but no dollar amount
was specified.
City Engineer Perlin stated this was not reviewed by the Planning
Commission, but was reviewed by staff and disabled access will be
provided.
Councilmember Monia expressed concern about the entrance on Fruitvale
and feels this will become a safety issue if parents stop to drop their
children off.
City Manager Peacock stated there is a drop off area planned in the
City Hall parking lot beside the house.
Councilmember Monia expressed concern about this not going through the
Planning Commission and following City procedures.
Mayor Anderson stated the meetings regarding this matter were open to
the public.
Councilmember Tucker stated it is her experience that the Planning
Commission does refer to the Heritage Commission for comment.
Councilmember Kohler stated the correct process should be followed and
Commissions which the City Council appointed should be used.
City Council Minutes 5 october 21t 1992
MONIA/KOHLER MOVED TO ACCEPT THE PLANS PENDING CONCURRENCE OF THE
PLANNING COMMI8SION. PASSED 5-0.
City Manager Peacock stated that staff did follow the proper procedure
and sent it to the Commission they felt was appropriate.
Mayor Anderson moved to the public hearings at this time.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 8:30 p.m.
A. Ordinance amending Section 16.20,310 of the Saratoga City
Code to amend Section 79.709 of the 1991 Edition of the
UniformFire Code concerning testing of underground storage
tank piping (first reading and introduction)
City Manager Peacock presented the staff report. He stated this is a
public hearing to consider a specific technical change. Mr. Peacock
reviewed the change as outlined in the staff report relating to
inspection of underground storage tank piping.
The public hearing was opened at 9:05 p.m.
BURGER/ANDERSON MOVED TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING. PASSED 5-0.
KOHLER/TUCKER MOVED TO INTRODUCE THE ORDINANCE BY TITLE-ONLY, WAIVING
FURTHER READING. PASSED 5-0.
The Mayor then returned to Old Business.
D. Discussion on Possible Development of a Commercial Property
Maintenance Standards Ordinance and Enforcement Program
(continued from 10/7)
Staff reco. mmends that the City Council determine whether and when to
direct staff to prepare a program/policy paper on such a program and
ordinance.
City Manager Peacock stated a memo has been prepared by the City
Attorney outlining the existing ordinance and a proposed "Property
Maintenance Ordinance". He stated although the Argonaut Shopping
Center is in poor condition the ordinance is not geared to handle
general lack of maintenance, but geared toward public health and
safety. He stated the Property Maintenance Ordinance is an option the
City Council can take to regulate general conditions of a commercial
property. He stated staff is.concerned about the administrative effort
to enforce the Ordinance and noted if the ordinance is to be successful
it is important to enforce it. Mr. Peacock stated the City Council
must consider that this will be a time consuming effort and additional
work on the existing staff.
Mr. Jerr~ Kocir, 12855 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Rd., addressed the City
Engineer and told him to be careful as to what he presents to the
Heritage Commission as they are very critical. Mr. Kocir expressed
concern about trucks coming into the Argonaut Shopping Center causing
traffic problems. He stated the trucks idle therefore causing
pollution. He requested that a stop sign be placed at the entrance of
the center at Safeway. He also expressed concern about noise from
teenagers drinking and also the leaf blowers and street sweeping in
early morning hours.
Mayor Anderson stated she.did receive a Complaint from a store owner
in the center about kids in the shopping center late at night.
In response to Councilmember Monia~s question, City Manager Peacock
stated the Use Permit is silent on the issue of 24 hour operation. He
stated he has spoken to the Manager at Safeway who has restricted
delivery between the hours of 5:30 a.m to 9:00 p.m. He stated the
Property Maintenance Ordinance will not address Mr. Kocir's concerns.
He stated the City staff needs to address those issues and contact the
Sheriff~s Department. He noted staff can monitor the noise and will
follow up on this.
City Council Minutes 6 October 21, 1992
Councilmember Monia stated they need to have cooperation from Safeway
and if the City does not get this they should contact their corporate
headquarters.
Councilmember Burger stated the trucks should use Blauer Street for
entrance into the shopping center.
Mayor Anderson stated staff should look at the possibility of
prohibiting a left hand turn when leaving the center.
Councilmember Burger stated the Property Management Ordinance should
not apply to residential property.
Councilmember Tucker concurred.
Councilmember Monia stated this Property Maintenance Ordinance would
be worthwhile to pursue, but agreed it should not apply to residential
property.
City Manager Peacock stated this would be in the Code Enforcement
section of the City Code and would not relate to zoning.
MONIA/BURGER MOVED TO DIRECT STAFF TO PROCEED WITH THE PROPERTY
MAINTENANCE ORDINANCE TO EXCLUDE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY AND HAVE A DRAFT
PREPARED WITHIN TWO MONTHS. PASSED
E. Bonnet Way Soundwall, Capital Project No. 9113 - Approval
of final design and authorization to solicit bids
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the final design and
adopt a resolution authorizing staff to solicit informal bids for the
project.
City Engineer Perlin presented the staff report dated October 21, 1992.
He stated if this is approved the Council should adopt the findings
attached so bids can be limited to the four freeway contractors already
working in Saratoga.
The Councilmembers discussed the mix in textures seen by the community
and commuters on the freeway. Mr. Perlin stated this was done to add
to the design of the wall.
Mr. Tom Foresight questioned the design of the wall. He stated the
plans as shown are in conflict with the neighborhood's requests.
City Engineer Perlin stated the plans are incorrect and will be
reversed to address the neighborhood's request.
Councilmember Burger suggested approving the design with'everything on
the community side to be split face with some scoring as requested by
the neighborhood.
City Engineer concurred.
BURGER/MONIA MOVED TO APPROVE THE DESIGN WITH THE UNDERETANDIN~ THAT
ALL THE WALL FACING THE NEIGHBORHOOD IS SPLIT FACE WITH SOME 8CORING.
PASSED 5-0.
Mayor Anderson expressed concern about reflective noise from the
freeway to other neighborhoods.
Councilmember Tucker asked for. a reconsideration of the vote and also
expressed concern about the reflective noise to other neighborhoods.
The Councilmembers discussed the issue of reflective noise from this
wall to adjoining neighborhoods.
City Engineer Perlin did verify that there is less reflective noise
from a split face wall.-
City Manager Peacock stated this was discussed three years ago at the
beginning of the process and all adjoining neighborhoods were involved.
He also stated that vines will be planted inside the corridor and grow
City Cotmcil Minutes 7 October 21# 1992
on the freeway side of the wall.
Mr. Perlin stated if the Council wish to make a change he would suggest
'placing split face in the verticalsections.
BURGER/MONIA MOVED TO DIRECT STAFF TO 8OLICIT BIDS AS RECOMMENDED BY
STAFF.
In response to Councilmember Monia's question, City Engineer Perlin
stated there are several reasons to solicit bids to the existing
freeway contractors: they have a competitive advantage; they have the
necessary easement to do this work from the freeway side. He stated
a different contractor would have to go through the process with Cal-
Trans and the Railroad to acquire encroachment permits to work on their
rights of way.
The above motion was carried 5-0.
F. Hakone Gardens Water System, Capital Project No. 981 -
Award of Construction Contract
City Engineer Perlin presented the staff report. He noted bids were
opened yesterday and the lowest bidder was acompany from HayWard. He
stated the bid was much lower than the next bid, and expressed concern
about the bidder's ability to complete the project for the amount of
the bid. He stated he would like to redesign the project to bring the
costs down and open bids again. He requested that the City Council
reject all bids and authorize staff to redesign the project. He feels
there will be a saving of 25-30 percent if the project is redesigned.
Mr. Perlin expressed concern about the alignment of the water main from
the water tank down into the garden.
Councilmember Kohler asked if there was any guarantee that the
contractor must do the work specified in the agreement.
City Engineer Perlin stated there is a performance bond put up. He
further stated the reason for wanting to redesign the project is that
he does not think the City's consulting engineer's estimate is correct.
Mr. Tom Foresight stated he has had substantial experience in this line
of work and noted that $30-$35 iS a low estimate for 6" PVC piping.
He stated he would support the City Engineer's comments that $35 seems
suspicious.
MONIA/BURGER MOVED TO REJECT ALL BIDS, DIRECT STAFF TO REDESIGN AND
SOLICIT NEW BIDS. PASSED 5-0.
7. NEW BUSINESS
A. Revision of Criteria for Performing Arts Grants
Staff recommends that the City Council approve staff recommendation and
revised statement of policy and procedures.
Ms. Carolyn King, Assistant to the City Manager, presented the staff
report dated October 21, 1992. She stated staff is recommending that
the proposal instructions be modi'fied to limit the grant application
to a specific program or event in Saratoga which will be enjoyed by all
of the community. She feels this would also be easier to work with.
Mayor Anderson stated a non-profit organization should be involved.
Councilmember Monia stated he would like to see how much of the funds
are spent on administration. He stated he would fav6r an organization
which is voluntary. He noted that most of the funds should go to the
art as opposed to the administration.
City Manager Peacock stated part of the standard submittal is a
breakdown of an applicant's budget.
Mayor Anderson suggested including the Silicon Valley Arts Fund and let
them know what the City's process is for applying for grants.
City Council. Minutes S October 21, 1992
Councilmember Tucker stated this organization is to help local arts.
There was a consensus of the Council to make the changes recommended
by staff.
B. Resolution appointing City Council Representative to County
Emergency Preparedness Council
Staff recommends that the City Council appoint a member of the City
Council by resolution.
City Manager Peacock stated the Emergency Preparedness Council meets
quarterly at midday at the County building. He stated a member of all
Cities within the County will be on this Council.
KOHLER/BURGER MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 92.051.1 APPOINTING
COUNCILMEMBER KOHLER TO REPRESENT THE CITY OF SARATOGA. PASSED 5-0.
C. Ordinance deletlng loadlng zone on Oak street at the
Saratoga Elementary School (first reading and introduction)
Staff recommends that the City Council introduce the ordinance by title
only, waiving further reading.
City Engineer Perlin presented the staff report dated October 21, 1992.
Mayor Anderson expressed concern about people parking and no place to
unload. She stated the school wants to legalize violations which are
currently taking place.
City Manager feels the parents have a legitimate concern as they have
to take kindergarten children into the classroom and so far the school
has failed to deal with this issue.
Mayor Anderson feels this will create further traffic hazards.
City Engineer Perlin stated this change has already been made and they
have experienced no problems. He noted all parties involved are in
support of the change. Normally such a change would not have been
brought to the Council, but the current regulations were adopted by
ordinance, so a permanent change must be made by Council.
Mayor Anderson suggested getting an update before a final decision is
made.
Councilmember Tucker stated the City should move forward with this and
if a problem occurs deal with it then.
BURGER/KOHLER MOVED TO INTRODUCE BY TITLE ONLY, WAIING FURTHER READING,
AN ORDINANCE DELETING THE LOADING 2ONE ON OAK STREET AT THE SARATOGA
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. PASSED 5-0.
D. Resolution establishing Policy of Taking Minutes of Closed
Sessions of Council
Councilmember Monia stated that final actions should be recorded.
City Attorney Riback stated this can be included in the resolution if
the Council so desires.
City Manager Peacock stated this is an issue of timing. He stated all
final decisions come on the next agenda and are confirmed at that
meeting.
City Attorney Riback stated that final actions should be made public
when the paper work is complete or at the next Council meeting.
Mr. Peacock stated the minutes will be kept and can be reviewed at the
following closed session. He stated when a vote is taken in a closed
session it is recognized as a final decision.
city Attorney Riback stated he would prefer any final action not be
disclosed until the next Council meeting.
City Council ainutee 9 October 21# X992
NONIA/TUCKER HOVED TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 92-071 ESTABLISHING POLICY OF
TAKING MINUTES OF CLOSED SESSIONS OF COUNCIL. PASSED 5-0.
E. Memo Authorizing Publicity for Upcoming Hearings -
Political Sign Ordinance; Head General Plan and Zoning
Change
City Manager Peacock stated there is a request to continue the Head
General Plan and Zoning Change as well as the appeal for denial of a
subdivision on Quito Road.
Councilmember Monia stated the Council needs to discuss commercial
needs within the City and noted this should be discussed at the joint
meeting with the Planning Commission.
9. CITY COUNCIL ITEM
A. Oral Communications (continued) and response from City
Council, if necessaz7 - None.
B. Agency Assignment Reports
1. ABAG - Anderson
2. Cable TV Board - Monia
3. HCD Policy Committee - Tucker
4. Transportation Commission - Anderson
5. Hakone Foundation - Tucker
6. IGC - Kohler
7. Flood Control Advisory Board - Burger
8. League of Cities Peninsula Division - Tucker
9. Water District Commission - Anderson
10. Santa Clara County Cities Association - Tucker
11. Sister City Committee - Burger
12. Traffic Authority Policy Advisory Board - Tucker
13. Transit Assist Board - Burger
14. Senior Coordinating Committee - Burger
15. West Valley Sanitation District - Burger
Councilmember Tucker noted she has a scheduling conflict with Hakone
Foundation and the HCD Policy Committee.
Councilmember Tucker noted the City has been asked by the Santa Clara
County Cities Association to take a position on whether to endorse or
not endorse the Silicon Valley Arts Fund.
Mayor Anderson stated this is a worthwhile organization.
Councilmember Burger suggested putting this on a future agenda.
Councilmember Tucker noted the Strategic Vision was discussed at SCCCA
meeting and reports will be submitted.
Councilmember Burger reported on the Senior Coordinating Committee.
She reported on the endowment fund. She also reported on the West
Valley Sanitation District. Councilmember Burger apologized to the
Council for not yet submitting reports of the California League of
Cities Conference.
Councilmember Monia reported on Cable T.V. He noted there is a new
President and Vice President.
Mayor Anderson reported on the Transportation Committee. She noted
they discussed service cuts. ABAG discussed fire safety, noting the
Cities must be aggressive.
C. General Councll Items
1) Agenda items for joint meeting with Parks and
Recreation Commission 10/27
Staff recommends that the City Council reschedule to 1/12/93 (see memo
from Maintenance Director)
City Council Ninutes 10 October 2X, X992
2) Proposal for Consolidation of Commission Term
Expiration Dates (continued from 10/7)# including
Commission Candidate Interview Process for Inc-mhent
Commissioners - Burger (continued from 10/7)
Staff recommends that the City Council discuss whether to change
current policies.
City Manager Peacock presented the staff report dated October 7, 1992.
He stated that staff can present to the Council a list of applicants
which are on file. The Council can choose from these or re-advertise.
Councilmember Monia noted he concurs with the staff suggestion and
feels there will be a lot of turnover. He suggested that if a
resignation occurs two months prior to the next appointment, it should
be left vacant until the appointment.
MONIA/BURGER MOVED TO ACCEPT THE PROPOSAL FOR CONSOLIDATING EXPIRATION
DATES. PASSED 5-0.
The Council now discussed the interview process for incumbent
Commissioners.
Councilmember Burger stated the current Planning Commissioners were
embarrassed, as seated commissioners, to go through interviews with
candidates not Seated. She suggested returning to the previous policy.
Council'member Monia stated the previous policy allows Commissioners to
stay on the Commission if they so wish.
Councilmember Burger expressed concern about interviews being a waste
of time for new Commission applicants if existing Commissioners will
be re-appointed.
Mayor Anderson suggested having incumbents apply, but do not have to
go through the interview process.
Councilmember Kohler stated all Commissioners should submit an
application and then decisions should be made. He was afraid that if
they are not interviewed, others will think that they are not going to
be equally considered.
Councilmember Burger stated vacancies should always be advertised and
interviews held, but seated Commissioners should have the option to be
interviewed or not.
Mayor Anderson concurred.
Councilmember Burger stated it is her attempt to streamline and improve
the system.
TUCKER/BURGER MOVED TO ALLOW SEATED COMMISSIONERS TO HAVE THE OPTION
OF AN INTERVIEW. PASSED 4-0-1 (Monia abstain).
3) city council Expense Reimbursement Policy
Councilmember Monia noted he met with Mr. Peacock to discuss the
stipend. Mr. Monia reviewed the Policy for Conference and Meeting
Expense reimbursement as outlined in the staff report.
Mayor Anderson stated expense reimbursement should refer to out of
County. She stated she goes to many meetings outside the County which
are less than 100 miles.
In response to Mayor Andersonts question City Manager Peacock stated
that the issue is, the policy adopted never defined what a stipend is
and the Council need to do this. He stated if City Councilmembers are
on official business they.will be paid if the particular agency
attended does not give a stipend according to the current policy.
Mayor Anderson spoke in favor of a modification. She suggested the
stipend include all travel expenses outside the County. She also
suggested that meetings for which the member of the City Council is
paid to attend by the sponsoring agency, regardless of where, shall not
City Council Minutes 11 october 21, 1992
be.reimbursed.
Councilmember Monia spoke in favor of using mileage as a criterion.
Mayor Anderson suggested a radius of 20 miles.
MONIA/KONLER MOVED TO APPROVE THAT THE FIRST 50 MILE8 PER DAY BE
EXCLUDED FROM THE EXPENSE ALLOWANCE AND IE CONSIDERED PANT OF THE
STIPEND. FAILED 2-3 (Anderson# Tucker, Burger No)
KOHLER/MONIA MOVED TO APPROVE A 30 MILE RADIUS FOR THE EXPENSE
ALLOWANCE CRITERIA.
City Manager Peacock stated the only application to the "within County
exception" relates to meetings which Councilmembers are not appointed
delegates by resolution. He stated it does not matter where the
meetings are; if the person is representing the City Council the City
now pays for expenses.
The above motion failed 2-3 (Anderson, Tucker, Burger No).
TUCKER/BURGER MOVED TO USE OUT OF COUNTY AS CRITERIA FOR THE EXPENSE
ALLOWANCE. PASSED 3-2 (Monia, Kohler No).
MONIA/ANDERSON MOVED TO APPROVE THAT MEETINGS FOR WHICH THE MEMBER OF
THE CITY COUNCIL IS PAID TO ATTEND BY THE SPONSORING AGENCY WILL NOT
BE REIMBURSED. PASSED
4) Other
City Attorney Riback requested an item be placed on the agenda as an
emergency item. The matter involves a request that the City
participate in an amicus in a zoning case. He stated this is of
Statewide importance.
BURGER/TUCKER MOVED TO PLACE THE CITY ATTORNEY'SHEQUEST ON THE AGENDA.
PASSED 5-0.
City Attorney Riback stated this involves a provision in State law
which limits a water agency, in this case East Bay MUD, from being able
to construct a facility within the City limits without adhering to city
rules and regulations. He noted current State law says only when the
facility is for water transportation purposes can they avoid the City
laws. He stated East Bay MUD wants to construct a corporation yard in
the City limits of lafayette and has challenged this particular
Statute. Mr. Riback stated the City of lafayette is asking for an
amicus to support their position. He noted there will be no cost to
the City.
There was a consensus of the Council to participate in an amicus and
support the City of lafayette.
10. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:55 p.m. to a closed session and then to
October 27 at 7:30 p.m.
11. CLOSED SESSION on salary negotiations for City Manager
Respectfully Submitted,
Catherine M. Robillard
Minutes Clerk