HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-04-1995 City Council Minutes MINUTES
SAI~TOGA CITY COUNCIL
TIME: Wednesday, October 4, 1995 - 7:30 p.m.
PLACE: Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Ave.
TYPE: Regular Meeting
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m.
Pledge of Allegiance
1. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Burger, Moran, Tucker~ Wolfe and Mayor Jacobs
Staff: City Manager Peacock, Public Works Director Perlin, Community
Development Director Curtis and City Attorney Steve Mattos
2. CEREMONIAL ITEMS - None
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF AGENDA
PUrsuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was
properly posted on September 29, 1995.
4. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMISSIONS AND THE PUBLIC
A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (limited to 15 minutes)
1) Presentation from Assessor Larry Stone concerning
Procedures in Assessor,s Office
Mr. Larry Stone made a presentation to the City Council regarding the
roles and duties of the Santa Clara County Assessors Office (i.e.,
value property and responsible for property tax revenue).
2) communications from commissions - None.
B. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1) Leo A. Barnard, 13151 Paseo Presada, resigning from
Parks and Recreation COmmiSsiOn
COUNCIIMEMBERS MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO ACCEPT LEO BARNARD'S RESIGNATION
WITH REGRET AND DIRECTED STAFF TO PREPARE THE APPROPRIATE RESOLUTION
AND TO BEGIN THE RECRUITMENT PROCEDURE. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
2) Michael P. Evanhoe, Director, Congestion Management
Program and Nancy Coss-Fitzwater, Manager, Policy and
Administration, requesting ratification of Policy on
Board Member Selection and Rotation
COUNCILMEMBERSBURGER/WOLFE MOVED TO APPROVE THE POLICY ON BOARDMEMBER
SELECTION AND ROTATION FOR THE CONGESTION MANAGEMENT PROGRAM.
Councilmember Burger clarified that there is to be no change in the
current policy as the West valley cities reviewed its policy and felt
that the existing policy was sufficient.
Councilmember Wolfe clarified that there was a slight change in the
policy in that if there is a change in rotation so that the person who
is serving is asked to serve as vice-chair or chair of the district,
that city Would be allowed to continue to have a person on the board
for an extended period of time in order to retain continuity on the
board as a whole.
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Prevlously-Discussed Items
1) Ordinance amending Nuisance Abatement Ordinance (second
City Council Minutes 2 October 4, 1995
reading and adoption, waiving further reading)
COUNCIlS!EMBERS MORAN/WOLFE MOVED TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 71-151 BY TITLE
ONLY, WAIVING FURTHER READING. THE MOTION PASSED UNANIHOUSLY (5-0).
B. New Items
1) Planning Comm{ssion A~:tlons, 9\27 - Note and file.
2) Approval of Check Register
3) Resolution approving amendment to agreement with
CalTrans concerning Traffic Signal Maintenance - DELETED
FROM AGENDA.
4) Resolution 95-44 vacating Esterlee Avenue
5) Final Map Approval at 14120 saratoga Avenue (SDR 94-
002)(Developer, Glenrock Development Co.)
Mayor JacobS noted that staff has removed Consent Calendar Item B.3
from the agenda.
Councilmember Moran requested the removal of B.4 from the consent
calendar.
COUNCILMEMBERS MORAN/BURGER MOVED TO APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
B.1, B.2, AND B.5. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
Councilmember Moran requested that staff explain the effect, if any, on
the adjoining property. Public Works Director Perlin informed the City
Council that a revised resolution was distributed this evening. Me
noted that a map attached to the resolution labeled "Exhibit A"
depicts the remnant pieces that would revert back to the various
properties which would have an interest in what is known as Esterlee
Avenue. The particular property in question is Parcel 40, shown on
Exhibit A. A ll0' x 20' wide piece of what is Esterlee Avenue would
revert back to the parcel so that it would gain in Size a couple of
thousand square feet. It was his belief that this would result in
shifting a setback line over a little bit and might allow for a
slightly larger coverage of the lot. He noted that the parcel takes
access off of Canyon View down the strip known as Esterlee and that it
would appear to become a flag lot but won't because it touches Canyon
View.
COUNCILMEMBERSMORAN/BURGER MOVED TO APPROVE CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM B.4.
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
C. CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY - None.
7. OLD BUSINE88
A. Awerd of Construction Contracts
1) Pierce Road Bridge
2) Pavement Maintenance Progrem (overlay)
3) street Maintenance Progrem (Slurr~ Seal)
City Manager Peacock informed the Council that Public Works Director
Perlin requests that the awarding of the overlay contract be continued
to Tuesday, October 10.
Councilmember Moran indicated that she has not had a chance to review
the contracts. She inquired if the contracts could be continued to next
week so that the Council could review the material and whether a time
constraint existed. Public Works Director Perlin requested that the
Council take action to award the Pierce Road Bridge contract this
evening because it is an extremely time sensitive project. He noted
that we are coming up against the end of the construction season and
that any further delay in getting the! contractors started could cause
a delay until next spring.
City Council Minutes 3 october 4, 1995
Mayor Jacobs noted that the fiscal impacts were apparently greater than
what was budgeted ($111,000 more than what was budgeted). Public Works
Director Perlin indicated that the Pierce Road bridge was a little more
complicated than the slurry seal program.
As it was 8:00 p.m., Mayor Jacobstabled discussion on these items and
indicated that the Council would return to these items following public
hearings.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 8:00 pm.
A. Consideration of an ordinance amending Chapter 15-30 of the
City Zoning Ordinance relating to standards for the placement
of temporal7 signs in commercial zoning Districts and
consideration of an ordinance establishing interim standards
for temporarer signs in Commercial Zoning Districts (AZO 95-
003)
City Manager Peacock informed the City Council that a public hearing
would be conducted this evening and that at the conclusion of the
hearing, the Council would consider introducing the ordinance as
presented or amended, as necessary.
Community Development Director Curtis presented the staff report on
this item. He informed the Council that the Planning Commission
discussed and reviewed political signs, special event signs, open house
signs, signs on major arterial streets, master sign programs and window
signs. Me indicated that temporary political signs were separated from
this ordinance. Regarding special event signs, it was noted that the
Planning Commission and City Council adopted an interim ordinance that
would allow for banners to be displayed for a maximum of 42 days in a
6 month period to see how many individuals used them and to see if they
become a visual blight. He reported that only two individuals used
banners to advertise special events. Me noted that the existing
ordinance was approved fifteen years ago for shopping centers.
Shopping centers are being encouraged to change their sign programs if
the sign program was outdated. The current sign ordinance does not
address window signs. After two years of study, it was determined that
there was not a needto amend the ordinance for open house and window
signs. The Commission recommends that the special event sign
ordinance be made a permanent amendment to the sign ordinance to allow
40 square foot banners for a six month period. The CommisSiOn further
recommends that the City Council consider the use of A-frame signs on
an interim basis for a six month period to see how it works out. Me
informed the City Council that the Commission did not take action on
real estate signs, window signs, signs on major arterial streets, and
master sign programs.
Councilmember Tucker requested clarification about the duration of the
temporary signs for 42 days in a six month period (item 3 of proposed
ordinance). Community Development Director Curtis clarified that an
individual can use a temporary sign for 42 days within a six month
period, regardless if it is a temporary banner or temporary sign.
Councilmember Wolfe asked if this proposed ordinance amendment relating
to A-frame signs also includes real estate directional signs. Community
Development Director Curtis stated that the ordinance amendment would
not apply to real estate signs. Councilmember Wolfe asked if there was
public input from the business community and realtors at the Planning
Commission level. Community Development Director Curtis responded that
the realtors were not involved in this process because the Planning
Commission did not feel that it was necessary to make real estate
directional open house signs as part of this ordinance. Community
Development Director Curtis informed the Council that three to four
merchants attended the public hearings and work. sessions. He noted
that the A-frame signs would not be allowed in the Village Shopping
Center.
Councilmember Tucker asked who would be liable if someone was to trip
when walking around A-frame signs. Community Development Director
Curtis responded that the A-frame signs would be located on private
property, not on the sidewalk or public right-of-way. Therefore, the
property owner would be responsible.
City Council Minutes 4 October 4, 1995
Mayor Jacobs noted that the temporal{ sign ordinance never got tested
during the six month trial period as only 2 banner permits were issued.
He asked if there was ever a problem? Community Development Director
Curtis informed the Council that the merchants may not have applied for
temporary permits as there was a fee involved and that the merchants
may be waiting for the ordinance to be adopted on a permanent basis.
Mayor Jacobs noted that there were changes proposed to temporary
political signs under Section A which he believed crossed over to
Section B of the proposed ordinance amendments. He recommended that
discussion on temporary political signs be deferred until Section B is
addressed. Community Development Director Curtis informed the Council
that the information provided was a culmination of study sessions by
the Planning Commission where all aspects of the sign ordinance were
reviewed. He concurred'that discussion of political signs in public
right-of way be deferred until discussion of the next hearing item,
noting that the Council requested that the political signs be addressed
separately.
Mayor Jacobs opened the public hearing at 8:22 p.m.
Alexander Lunginovic, 14482 Big Basin Way, asked to which zoning
districts this proposed sign ordinance amendment would be applicable.
Mayor Jacobs informed Mr. Lunginovic that the proposed ordinance
amendments before the City Council were not applicable to the Village
because it has its own sign ordinance. Mr. Lunginovic asked if the
Village Sign Ordinance would be brought before the Council for its
review as the ordinance does not allow for additional signage. Mayor
Jacobs suggested that Mr. Lunginovic speak to Community Development
Director Curtis regarding a proposed amendment to the Village signage
program.
Councilmember Wolfe noted that there were a number of buildings in the
Village that are being renovated. Me indicated that there was a new
restaurant association in Saratoga. He recommended that the
association get together and address this issue and then come to the
City With a proposal that may improve the conditions in the Village.
Mr. Lunginovic indicated that he is constantly being asked to conform
to the Village sign ordinance while other business signs are not
disturbed. Mayor Jacobs indicated that he would ask Community
Development Director Curtis to investigate this situation.
Councilmember Burger commented that she spoke to Community Service
Officer Spoulos who indicates that she is required by the ordinance to
enforce the no banner restriction in the Village. Ms. Spoulos
indicates that many of the merchants comply with the sign program but
that Mr. Lunginovic keeps utilizing banners on a regular basis.
Mike Seeley, Citibank, Argonaut Shopping Center, indicated that
problems exist due to the existing antiquated sign ordinance for
putting up new signage. He felt that the use of temporary banners
would help while there is a review and amendment of the existing sign
program.
There being no fu~her input, the px~lic hearing was closed .at 8:34
p.m.
Councilmember Tucker stated that she would want to see that the sign
ordinance permits the use of signs that are reflective of the city.
She felt that the Council should have some evidence that this type of
signage is actually bringing in business to stores. She asked if it
was premature to make the use of banners permanent since the City was
doing the Charette.
Councilmember Wolfe felt that the Charette would be an important event
and that it may lead to other permanent ordinance amendments that would
improve the situation. In the meantime, when the City had this
ordinance on a temporary basis, there was not an extraordinary use of
it. He felt that the temporary sign .ordinance provided some relief to
merchants and would provide flexibility to display their wares,
advertise their businesses, and that it could only improve conditions
for the merchants.
City Council Minutes 5 October 4, 1995
Councilmember Burger concurred with Councilmember Wolfe's comments.
She did not feel that there have been many banners seen in Saratoga.
She indicated that she did not have a problem with making the use of
banners a permanent part of the ordinance because the city still has
the control of 42 days. She recommended that the City Council consider
how it could tastefully accommodate businesses with signage. She
indicated that she would allow signage that would allow merchants to
participate in a joint, tasteful monument sign in the center (i.e~,
Argonaut center).
Councilmember Moran stated that she would support extending the current
temporary ordinance that would allow for 42 days of use per 6 months
for banners in order to increase business vitality, and at the same
time not detract from the atmosphere of Saratoga. She recommended that
the City work on a long term sign program and rely heavily on the
planning process that is going to occur on Sunnyvale-Saratoga Road.
She noted that the City was in the process of engaging a business
consultant along with the development of a business plan for the City.
If it turns out that a key component of those is temporary banners,
that should be something that the Council should consider. She felt
that at this point, it is a stop gap measure that she would be willing
to continue the use of banners on a temporary basis.
Mayor Jacobs thanked Community Development Director Curtis, the
Planning Department, the Chamber of Commerce and the Planning
Commission for their work on this issue. However, he felt that there
was something missing that would hold this issue together. He felt that
there was a lack of a coordinated vision for signage. He felt that
there be a review of the sign ordinance was needed and that it should
not be looked at in terms of the entire city. He did not believe that
there was a central person directing a vision as to what signage should
be in the City. He felt that the evidence seems to indicate that the
banners may not serve a useful purpose. He felt that this city has had
a policy for years to limit the amount of signage in the city. He felt
that the City should take the trouble, for the benefit of the community
as a whole, to wait until the City has a business consultant aboard who
can take a look at what is being recommended and put together a uniform
sign program. He indicated that he did not have a problem with
continuing the temporary promotional signs and banner ordinance. He
recommended that someone with experience in signage plan for the entire
community, treating the Village and Argonaut centers as distinctive
entities.
Councilmember Wolfe felt that Mayor Jacobs comments was well stated.
The City of Saratoga needs a broader vision. He felt that steps were
being taken in that direction as the Charette that will take place will
addresssignage. He felt that the broader picture should be made clear.
He felt that the City was headed in that direction but felt that it
would take some time. He felt that the proposed permanent ordinance
would be as permanent as anything gets in government. He indicated that
the Council will be asked to consider bringing up business development
in a town meeting to be scheduled in January. He felt that if the
majority of the Council felt that extension of this ordinance.for an
additional year would be adequate, during that one year, a lot of other
good things would taking place.
Community Development Director Curtis indicated that the driving force
behind the sign ordinance amendment was the presentation of an
ordinance by the Chamber of Commerce to the Council for its
consideration. The Council directed staff to review the Chamber's
proposed' ordinance amendment as a reactionary process rather than a
proactive process which would identify a vision for Saratoga signs.
In response to Councilmember Wolfe's question as to the necessary
action to be taken to extend this ordinance for a year, City Manager
Peacock recommended that a section be added to the ordinance that would
stipulate that this ordinance would sunset a year after it goes into
affect, changing the time from six months to one year.
The City Attorney Mattos informed the Council that the same base
language that is used in Section 3 of the ordinance which deals with
temporary A-frame signs could be added to the ordinance, including the
sunset provisions of 12 months.
Cit~ Council Minutes 6. october 4# 1995
Councilmember Moran asked if the temporary banner ordinance was still
in effect. City Manager Peacock infoi~ed the Council that there are no
provisions for temporary banners at this time as the temporary
ordinance expired in April.
COUNCILMEMBERS BURGER/TUCKER MOVED TO DIRECT STAFF TO MAKE THE CHANGE
TO THE TEMPORARY SIGN ORDINANCE RELATING TO THE TEMPORARY PLACEMENT OF
PROMOTIONAL AND BANNER SIGNS, INCLUDING THE LANGUAGE WHICH WOULD
STIPULATE THAT THE ORDINANCE WOULD EXPIRE A YEAR AFTER IT GOES INTO
AFFECT. STAFF TO RETURN WITH THE ORDINANCE IN CORRECTED FORM FOR THE
COUNCIL'S OCTOBER 18 MEETING. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
Mayor Jacobs indicated that he was opposed to A-frame signs whether it
was on a temporary or a permanent basis. He felt that one of the
distinguishing features of Saratoga was the fact that A-frame signs are
not permitted and that when you driwe to other communities who allow
them they tend to be obtrusive and offensive. He did not believe that
A-frame signs would fit in with the view of the Community. In light of
previous discussion, he recommended that action on A-frame signs be
tabled until further planning is conducted.
Councilmember Burger agreed with Mayor Jacobs and that rather than
dismissing the use of A-frame signs, she would like to keep the options
open in case something comes up from the Charette or the. City-wide
signage vision.
Councilmember Moran stated her agreement that A-frame signs are
unattractive and that she was not convinced that they were necessaryat
this point. She would agree to take action on the ordinance that would
not allow for A-frame signs at this time.
BY CONSENSUS, THE COUNCIL TABLED THE AMENDMENT TO THE SIGN ORDINANCE
RELATING TO A-FRAME SIGNS.
B. Consideration of an ordinance amending Chapter 15-30 of the
City Zoning Ordinance relating to the prohibition of certain
signs within the public right of way (AZO-95-004).
Community Development Director Curtis presented the staff report on
this item.
Councilmember Moran inquired how other cities addressed the problem of
enforcement as she was concerned that it does not become cumbersome
from an administrative and enforcement point of view. Community
Development Director Curtis responded that other cities have indicated
that if political signs are placed in areas that appear to be a yard,
enforcement does not occur.
Mayor Jacobs noted.that signs in public right of ways are regulated as
permits are required. Garage sale and lost dogs signs that are posted
in public right of ways are technically in violation of the ordinance
and that the City does not take any action because these types of signs
are left up for a relatively short period of time.
City Manager Peacock noted that there are certain provisions contained
in the ordinance which would allow the placement of certain signs in
the public right of way if an encroachment permit is obtained. The
City's primary concernwas that of public safety when signs are located
in such a way that they do not impede vision. The only signs that are
permitted are special event signs under a 72 hour permit (i.e., art
show, cooperative nurserywine and cheese festival, and other community
events).
Mayor Jacobs opened the public hearing on this item at 9:12 p.m. There
being no input, the public hearing was closed a~ 9:13 p.m.
Councilmember Wolfe agreed that he did not want enforcement to become
cumbersome. Regarding political signs, it was an indication to him
that democracy is alive and well in S~aratoga and that political signs
are a celebration of the process of democracy. He did not believe that
political signs disfigure Saratoga the few weeks that political signs
are displayed. One of the functions for signs being allowed to go up
City Council Minutes 7 October 4, 1995
was that an incumbent has an advantage in that someone running for
office would not always have that advantage. It was his belief that
political signs would place candidates in a level playing field with
incumbents.
Councilmember Burger concurred with the comments as expressed by
Councilmember Wolfe. She did not believe that a large problem existed
in this community. She felt that the City needs to be careful not to
over regulate itself for a non-existent problem or one that is so
small. She felt that the use of political signs are a celebration of
the process that we go through in this country and that it should be
preserved rather than regulating it away. She felt that the entire
concept of regulating signs in the right of way was a gross over
regulation of a very small problem.
Councilmember Tucker noted that there were 8 othe~ cities in the area
that prohibit the placement of political signs in the right of way.
She indicated that when she attended the Cities' Association meeting,
she asked how other cities address this issue and asked whether it was
a problem. Every city indicated that it was a problem as citizens
complain about the blight of political signs. She indicated that the
problem that the larger cities have was enforcement as they do not have
the staff members to enforce the ordinance. She stated that she would
like to limit the location of political signs. She did not believe
that it would inhibit anyone's liberty nor does it place one individual'
in advantage over another. She hoped that a citizenry of this city,
state and county would not vote for a candidate based on the m~mber of
signs that are displayed
Mayor Jacobs stated that he did not perceive this to be a free speech
issue because the constitutional guestion has been decided. The
constitutional determination has been that it is lawful to prohibit
signs in the public right of way. He indicated that he hears
complaints about political signage with every election. The real issue
was political signs, not the use of garage sales or lost animal signs.
He agreed that signs in public right of ways are a blight to the
community. It was his belief that the citizenry recognizes that the
true measurement of a candidate's strength lies not in the number of
telephone pole signs but instead the number of signs that a candidate
can post on the lawns of supporters. He felt that a candidate receives
votes was by getting out and meeting people, convincing them that you
are good enough to be elected and obtain permission to place one's sign
on the lawn. It was his belief that the three Councilmembers who were
elected in the last election were elected because the candidates met
the voters and convinced them that they were the right candidates for
the job. He felt that the Council would be doing the community a
service to eliminate signs in the public right-of-way. In an effortto
reach a compromise, he recommended that the proposed ordinance be
sunset to the end of November 1997. Doing so would give the Council
the opportunity to see whether or not political signs are a benefit or
a detriment to the community.
Councilmember Burger stated that other communities have these
ordinances. However, it does not take away from the fact that they are
an enforcement nightmare. She did not feel that the City could
prohibit one type of sign without prohibiting all kinds of signs. She
did not buy the argument of blight. She was not sure if the sunset
compromise would help at all. She felt that it would allow this issue
to return to the Council with all the same arguments and concerns in
1997. She felt that once again, there is to be an overregulation of
what seems to be a very minor problem.
Councilmember Wolfe stated that he did not want to see the celebration
of liberty sunset.
Councilmember Moran felt elections are an exciting time for the
community. She felt that there would be an increase the opportunity
for individuals to promote and endorse candidates if there is an
increased focus on private property signs. She indicated that she runs
across individuals who express concern about signs and the fact they
are not in keeping with the vision for Saratoga. She stated that she
would be willing to go along with the proposal that it be a temporary
solution and not a permanent one.
City Council Minutes 8 October 4, 1995
Councilmember Tucker indicated that She could support a sunset alause.
COUNCILMEMBERS WOLFE/TUCKER MOVED TO ACCEPT THE PLANNING COMMISSION'S
RECOMMENDATION TO REJECTTHE DRAFT O~)INANCE. THE MOTION FAILED 2-3AS
FOLLOWS: AYES: BURGER, WOLFE~ NOES: JACOBS, MORAN, TUCKER.
Councilmember Moran recommended that staff be directed to return with
a draft ordinance that would include a sunset provision of NoVember
1997.
City Attorney Mattos recommended that the proposed ordinance be amended
to renumber Section 4 to read "Section 5" and that a new Section 4 be
added that would indicate that the ordinance to be adopted.would be
effective to November 1997 at which time, its effectiveness would be
sunset.
COUNCILMEMBERS MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO WAIVE THE READINg AND INTRODUCED
THE ORDINANCE AS AMENDED TO INCLUDE A SUNSET CLAUSE =OF NOVEMBER 30,
1997 FOR THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THIS ORDINANCE. THE MOTION CARRIED 3-2 AS
FOLLOWS: AYES: MORAN, TUCKER, JACO[IS; NOES: BURGER, WOLFE.
THE COUNCIL RECESSED AT 9:30 P.M. THE COUNCIL RECONVENED AT 9:45 P.M.
7. OLD BUSINESS (cont'd.)
A. Award of Construction Contracts
1) Pierce Road Bridge
Public Works Director Perlin reported 'on the award of construction
contract for the Pierce Road Bridge replacement. He indicated that the
City was able to obtain federal grant: monies to replace the bridge on
an 80%/20% matching basis. In addition, development fees were
collected from subdivisions within the area in the 1980's that helped
fund the initial design and work on the project. He informed the
Council that three contractors submitted bids for the work and that the
low bid was submitted by Jones Brothers InCorporated, San Jose, with a
bid in the amount of $411,694. Staff felt that the bid was responsive
to the notice and-that it met all the criteria for federal aid
contracting. He recommended that Jones Brothers be declared the low
bidder on the project, to award a construction contract to Jones
Brothers in the amount of $411,694, and to authorize staff to execute
change orders to the contract up to an amount of $25,000, which leaves
sufficient funding to accomplish both the construction of the project
as well as the construction management cost.
Councilmember Moran noted that staff has indicated that the City would
be spending approximately $100,000 more than what was originally
planned, with 80% of the funding coming from the.federal government.
She asked if there was a guarantee that the City would receive that
money. Public Works Director Perlin responded that funding is
guaranteed and that the guarantee ~ould be coming to the City in
writing. She (Moran) wanted to make sure that the City receives 80%
funding for the entire amount for the project.
Councilmember Moran stated that she appreciated the fact that there is
a narrow window of time and that action was needed tonight. In
reviewing her responsibility to the citizens, she needs to look
carefully at how the City spends their money. She asked when the
bridge would be completed if work was able to commence tomorrow?
Public Works Director Perlin indicated that it was his belief that the
bridge would be completed towards the end of the year. She (Moran)
indicated that she did not believe that the $25,000 change work order
amount seemed to be a lot. She asked about grading in a creek bed and
if there was a date beyond which the grading was to be completed in
preparation for the rainy season. Public Works Director Perlin
responded by stating that the City was working under a permit issuedby
the Fish and Game Department that has an October 15 cutoff date.
However, the warden is allowing work to occur after October 15, weather
permitting. The contractor will need to put in certain measures that,
in the event of inclement weather', would prevent problems from
occurring in the creek.
City Council Minutes 9 October 4, 1995
CoUncilmember Wolfe asked if there was any means of tracking how often
the City spends the money authorized for change orders. Public Works
Director Perlin responded that at the end of each project he brings
back a notice of completion, and provides the Council with a s~mmaryof
the project which indicates the awarded contract amount, what the final
pay quantity was and the difference and why the project ran over or
.under.
Mayor Jacobs asked if there was going to be a realignment of the
roadway and whether the old bridge would remain in place while the new
bridge is being constructed. Public Works Director. Perlin clarified
that the old bridge would be demolished and that Pierce Road would be
closed for three to four months during reconstruction and that there
would be a detour around the project site. Mayor Jacobs asked if there
was a reason why the old bridge could not be left'open until the new
bridge is constructed. Public Works Director Perlin indicated that
there was not enough room and the City does not have the public right
of way. Mayor Jacobs recommended that an article be placed in the
newspaper advising the community as to the closure of Pierce Road due
to the construction of the new bridge and the reason for the closure.
COUNCILMEMBERS BURGER/TUCKER MOVED TO DECLARE JONES BROTHERS
INCORPORATED, SAN JOSE, AS BEING THE LOW BIDDER FOR THE PIERCE ROAD
BRIDGE REPLACEMENT PROJECT. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
COUNCILMEMBERS BURGER/TUCKER MOVED TO AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO
JONES BROTHERS INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $411,694. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
COUNCILMEMBERSBURGER/TUCKER MOVED TO AUTHORIZE STAFF TO EXECUTE CHANGE
ORDERS TO THE CONTRACT UP TO $25,000. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
2) Pavement Maintenanoe Prcgrem (overlay)
Public Works Director Perlin requested that the Council table this'item
until Tuesday, October 10 to allow staff to work out changes in the
Scope of the project.
BY CONSENSUS THE COUNCIL TABLED THIS ITEM UNTIL TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10j
3) Street Maintenance Program (Slurry Seal)
Public Works Director Perlin presented the staff report on this item.
He informed the Council that four contractors submitted a bid.
California Maintenance Incorporated, Sacramento, submitted the lowest
bid in the amount of $125,975, below the City's estimate of $135,631.
Staff felt that the bid was responsive to the notice. Therefore, staff
recommended that the Council declare this company to be the lowest
responsive bidder, award the construction contract to them in the
amount of their bid and authorize staff to execute change orders to the
contract up to an amount of $10,000 with funding to come out of the
Street Maintenance Activity (No. 31 in the budget).
COUNCILMEMBERS MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO DECLARE CALIFORNIA MAINTENANCE
INCORPORATED TO BE THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER. THE MOTION PASSED 5-
.
COUNCII/4EMBERS MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO AWARD THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO
CALIFORNIA MAINTENANCE INC. IN THE AMOUNT $125,975.18. THE MOTION
PASSED 5-0.
COUNCILMEMBERS MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDERS UP TO
$10,000. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
B. Resolution apprcving Supplemental Appropriation andamendlng
1995-96 Budget for the Purpose of Rollover of Eno-mhrances
COUNCILMEMBERS WOLFE/MORANMOVED TO ADOPTRESOLUTION 95-30.04 APPROVING
SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION ANDAMENDING 1995-96 BUDGET FOR THE PURPOSE
OF ROLLOVER OF ENCUMBRANCES. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
8. NEW BUSINESS
Finance Director Fil informed the Council that this item was reviewed
city Council Xinutes 10 October 4, ~995
by the Council two meetings ago regarding expenditures anticipated to
be spent in 1994-95. Staff recommended that the Council appropriate
the funds in the 1995-96 budget. Public Works Director Perlin informed
the Council that the City ordered two trucks in February through the
state with a delivery date of October 18, 1995. He noted that there
was a window period to pay for the purchase at a $1,000 savings to the
City.
Mayor Jacobs noted that monies were not being appropriated that were
not previously appropriated for this purpose.
Mayor Burger noted that this was not money that was allocated for
anything else other than for the purchase of vehicles with funding
rolling over from one fiscal year to the next.
COUNCILMEMBERS TUCKER/WOLFE MOVED TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION AMENDING
THE FISCAL YEAR 1995-96 BUDGET. THE MOTION PASSED 5-0.
B. Memo Authorizing Publicity for Upcoming Hearings
COUNCILMEMBERS TUCKER/WOLFE MOVED TO APPROVE PUBLICITY FOR UPCOMING
HEARINGS. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
9. ROUTINE MATTERS
A. Approval of Minutes - 9/12;~ 9/20; 9/26
Councilmember Moran asked about the 9/26 minutes. She noted that Mr.
Hammack expressed concerns about construction of retaining walls. The
Council directed staff to prepare a staff report to address his
concerns. She asked if a date had been established when staff would
return to the Council with a report? City Manager Peacock responded
that the Council did not establish a specific date when staff was to
return with a report. He stated that Community Development Director
Curtis had indicated that he would be meeting with Mr. Hammack.
Staffwould report to the City Council when the issue was resolved, but
would prepare an interim report for review on October 18. ~
COUNCILMEMBERS MORAN/WOLFE MOVED TO APPROVE .THE 9/12; 9/20/ 9/26
MINUTES AS SUBMITTED.
10. CITY COUNCIL ITEM8
A. Agenda Items for October 1(~ Meeting=
1) Items for Joint meeting with Los Gatos-Saratoga Joint
Union High School District and Saratoga Union School
District
a) Libraries, Information Technology, Internet Access
b) Public Safety an~! Traffic
c) School Growth and School Facilities
'd) Saratoga Youth Plan= What it is and how schools
can help.
2) Other Agenda Items
a) Radius of Legal }lotification
b) Report of Personal communications Service on
Request from Pacific Bell to Locate Cell Site at
Congress Springs Park
c) Councll Liaison ~pointments
d) christmas/New Year,s Holidays
city Manager Peacock informed the City Council that the staff work
necessary for the Christmas/New Year's Holidays has not been completed.
This item would be rescheduled for the October 18 meeting. He
City Council Minutes ll October 4# 1995
indicated that the approval of the scope of services and authorization
of the award of contract for the Nelson Gardens EIR would need to be
scheduled for the October 10 meeting.
Councilmember Moran noted that the overlay project would also need to
be scheduled for the October 10 meeting.
Mayor.Jacobs informed the Council that the public hearing noticing
radius was agendized at his request for discussion.
Councilmember Burger asked if a public safety commissioner or someone
who is familiar with the traffic patterns be able to attend the joint
meeting with the School District as she was not knowledgeable of
traffic and safety concerns.
City Manager Peacock indicated that the school district requested the
joint meeting with the primary focus was to receive feedback from City
staff on the Circulation changes that have been made to Redwood and how
it was working. He was not aware of other topics or issues that would
be discussed.
Public Works Director Perlin indicated that he would be in attendance
at the meeting.
Councilmember Moran agreed that it was a good idea to have a staff
member present at the meeting. She also recommended that the public
safety person who specializes with the school (school liaison) also be
invited to attend the meeting.
CoUncilmember Tucker announced that there would be a town hall meeting
held on Saturday, October 14 in the large meeting room in the Senior
Center. She encouraged that those individuals who have received a
letter of invitation or who have an interest in the youth in the'
community attend the town hall meeting.
Councilmember Burger requested that a member of the library staff be
invited to attend the October 10 meeting to provide input on item a)
(Libraries, Information Technology, Internet Access).
B. Other
Councilmember TUcker stated that today she met with individuals who
were working towards mitigating the noise problems associated with
Highway 85. She indicated that the group met with the Traffic
Authority and members from CalTrans. These agencies provided the group
with information' on how to write a grant to request funding for
mitigations. She indicated that Public Works Direc~er Perlin's name
came up as a good resource to help the group in preparing grants.
Councilmember Moran stated that she wanted to make sure that the City
responded as comprehensively as it can to the individual who addressed
the Council regarding his concern regarding signage at his restaurant
in the Village. She recommended that he be invited to attend the
Business Development Committee meetings or that he communicate his
concerns to the business development committee.
Councilmember Wolfe further recommended that he be encouraged to speak
to the restaurant association. They, in turn, would come to the City
council regarding proposed changes to the ordinance.
11. ADJOURNMENT
COUNCILMEMBERS WOLFE/BURGER MOVED TO ADJOURN AT 10:30 P.M. TO 5:30 P.M.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, ADMINISTRATION MEETING ROOM, 13777 FRUITVALE
AVENUE FOR CLOSED SESSION TO DISCUSS PENDING LITIGATION WITH PUBLIC
MEETING TO BEGIN AT 7:00 P.M. THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY (5-0).
Respectfully submitted,
Minutes Clerk