Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-17-1996 City Council Minutes MINUTES SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL TIME: Wednesday, July 17, 1996 - 6:30 p.m. PLACE: Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Ave. TYPE: Regular Meeting 6:30 in Administration Conference Room, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue Closed Session pursuant to section 54957.6: CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR Agency negotiator: Harry Peacock Employee organization: Saratoga Employees Association and Saratoga Management Organization 7:30 - Pledge of Allegiance was led by Kay Whitney. 1. ROLL CALL Councilmembers Present: Burger, Moran, Tucker, Wolfe and Mayor Jacobs. Staff Present: City Manager Peacock, City Attorney Riback, Public Works Director Perlin. 2. CEREMONIAL ITEMS A. Proclamations commending Former Members of Makone Foundation Board. BURGER/TUCKER TO ADOPT THE PROCLAMATION COMMENDING GLADYS ARMSTRONG FOR HER YEARS OF VOLUNTEER SERVICE ON THE MAKONE FOUNDATION BOARD. PASSED 5-0 BURGER/WOLFE TO ADOPT THE PROCLAMATION COMMENDING THE YAWATAS FOR THEIR YEARS OF VOLUNTEER SERVICE ON THE HAKONE FOUNDATION BOARD. PASSED 5-0 B. Proclamation on Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week MORAN/BURGER TO ADOPT PROCLAMATION ON CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING PREVENTION WEEK. PASSED 5-0 3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF AGENDA City Manager Peacock reported that pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on July 12, 1996. 4. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMISSIONS AND THE PUBLIC - None A. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None B. COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMISSIONS - None. C. WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS City Manager Peacock reported that there were items submitted relative to Item 7A. 5. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Previously-Discussed Items - None. B. New Items 1) Planning commission Actions, 7/10 - Note and file. 2) Heritage Preservation Commission Minutes, 4/9; 5/14; 6/11 -Note and file. 3) ParKs and Recreation Commission Minutes, 6/3 - Note and file. 4) Public Safety Commission Minutes, 6/10 - Note and file. 5) Award of Contract .to L~A.-TEL.S.F. Bay Area to upgrade Telephone Equipment 6) Memo Authorizing Publicity for Upcoming Hearings - Weed City Council Agenda 2 July 17, 1996 and Brush Liens~ Giberson Appeal 7) City Financial Reports for June: a) Treasurer's Report - Receive and file. b) Investment Report - Receive and file. c) Financial Report - Receive and file. d) Quarterly Quarry Creek Trust Report - Receive and file. 8) Approval of Check Register 9) Resolution 94-42.1 adjusting Budget to provide funds for Reopening of Warner Hutton House 10) Rescheduling of Bid Opening Date for Award of Construction Contract for saratoga Ave. Traffic Signal, CIP 9605, to July 23. 11) Ratification of Fee Schedule for Hakone Gardens 12) Resolution 96-44 authorizing Submission of Applications for TFCA 60% Funds MORAN/WOLFE TO APPROVE ITEMS B1 THROUGH B12 OF THE CONSENT CALENDAR. PASSED 5-0 C. CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY - None. 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None. 7. OLD BUSINESS A. Recommendations from Community Recreation and Parks T~sk Force concerning Park Development Funds City Manager Peacock noted for the record written communications received from the following persons relative to the issue: Gene Golobic, Nancy Krause, Debby Lillo, Harry Weller, and summarized phone calls. Jennifer Crotty, Parks and Recreation Commission, and Chair of the Task Force, explained that she and Kay Whitney would present an update. She said that she was pleased to represent both the Community Recreation and Park Task Force and the Saratoga Parks and Recreation Commission. Ms. Crotty reviewed her report, which outlined the origin and purpose of the task force, the sehedule of meetings and workshops held. Ms. Crotty reported that several issues emerged as strong common interests which require attention immediately and the 13 priority needs identified are listed in the report. She asked that the community listen with open mind to the recommendations and be prepared if necessary to consider the needs of the greater community. She pointed out that the consensus of the workshop highly valued community youth and teen needs and in turn programs and facilities that promote a happy, healthy environment in which they can grow and learn to become happy healthy, community-oriented adults. She said that community spirit is valued and the concept of a hub where people of all ages and interests can come together for learning, sharing, and networking was recognized. The task force values partnerships between the city, businesses and schools. It promised the community that it would keep up the positive momentum, stating that there was not time to do study after study and conduct more workshops; the children are growing and it was felt it would be detrimental to waste precious time and money and the resources available now while decisions are delayed. She stated that there were funds in the Park. Development Fund now and an agreed upon need existed now. Ms. Crotty discussed the prioritized needs list as determined by the City Council.Agenda 3 July 17, 1996 community at the June 8 workshop. 1. The Community hub concept. 2. Playing field improvements at existing school sites. 3. Development of multi-use sports fields in addition to the fields needing renovation at the existing school sites. 4. Teen facilities. 5. Land and park acquisition. 6. Park improvement in existing sites, separate from and not including sports fields. 7. Trail improvements. 8. Indoor sports and activity center. 9. Community gardens. 10. Development of a large community park. 11. Hakone Garden improvements. 12. Swimming pool (outdoor facility). 13. Construction of a dog run in a park. Ms. Crotty and Ms. Whitney presented the Task Force recommendations: 1. Community Center hub expansion. She reviewed the recommendation as outlined in the task force's memo of July 8. She stated that it was the task force recommendation that if it could be accomplished in phases, and if there is a viable Phase I that $300,000 was needed to begin the process. 2o Kay Whitney said that throughout the workshop and meetings the community emphasized the importance of meeting the needs of the youth in the community. When the 13 needs were studied, there was consensus that a number of the needs could be grouped under the category of youth services and recommended that $1 million be set aside for sports fields. She discussed the breakdown of recommended funding for the fields at the school sites and the city parks as outlined!in the July 8 memo. Ms. Whitney stressed the importance of teen programs and thanked the Council for making Warner Hutton House available for teen programs. 3. Improvements to existing parks. Ms. Crotty said that they were aware and sensitive to the impact on the neighbors. She reviewed the proposed improvements to the existing parks as outlined in the July 8 memo, noting that Azule, Kevin Moran, Gardiner and Hakone Gardens were to be targeted. 4. Reserve Fund. The task force committee recommended that the remaining funds be put into a reserve fund for projects that require additional funds or put aside for developing and funding parks, trails or open spaces. Councilmember Tucker said that she felt more time was needed to consider the issue before making a final decision. She pointed out that a video was distributed that needed reviewing, and correspondence that raised questions in her mind. She said she would like a chance to talk with the task force, and Parks and Recreation to get a better sense of how things were decided. She suggested a Tuesday meeting with Parks and Recreation to discuss the process, as she felt the report did not provide the opportunity for interaction. Councilmember Moran said that as the liaison to the task force and also the person who attended many of the meetings, she would like to respectfully urge the Council to move forward on the issue. She said she was open to the will of the Council. She said that the Council was being asked to authorize a broad-based plan and that the community and other interested residents would participate in planning specific sites and other details. Councilmember Moran said she felt the public would have ample chance to work with the Parks and Recreation consultant to iron out details. She said she was not in favor of delaying the issue any further and Urged the Council to move forward. Mayor Jacobs pointed out that many people were present to discuss the item and it was the only item for discussion on the agenda, and hopefully some decisions could be reached. He said that the issue has been before the Council for many years, talked about repeatedly and now City Council Agenda 4 July 17, 1996 put through the task force who accomplished a lot of work. He said in terms of the overall master plan, it was something that could be discussed and some decisions made. Mayor Jacobs said that while he did not necessarily agree with everything presented, perhaps a resolution could be reached. He said he would like the community to know that they will get some answers and said he would like to move forward with the issues. Councilmember Tucker clarified that it was not her intention to have the public return, but that they were present to be heard.and become a part of the record. However, she said she was not comfortable with making a final decision as there were some questions yet to be answered in an informal setting. Councilmember Burger said she agreed with Councilmember Tucker that the audience should provide their input and if the Council could move forward with some decisions it would be acceptable. She said she had questions which needed responses, and questioned if the Council is to make changes in the recommendations, should they be proceeding to make those changes without looking farther into the background of the recommendation? She commented on some remarks that it was unfortunate that the Council was not present at all the task force meetings, stating that it was a conscious effort on behalf of the Council not to be a part of all the meetings, that there was a liaison present and the Council did not want to spearhead or direct the meetings in any way. It was the Council's intention to have the report come from the task force committee and not be a Council effort. Mayor Jacobs said that the recommendations could be sent back to the task force with the Council's recommendations. Mayor Jacobs opened the meeting for public comment. Gary Lord, 19623 Northampton Drive, stated that a large number of people have been actively involved over the last 18 to 24 months actively opposing the proposed development of Kevin Moran and Azule parks, and pointed out that many more in opposition have not been able to attend the meetings but have sent letters in opposition. He said he would encourage further examination of the issue before any decision is made to move forward. He said the City continues to push development of Kevin Moran and Azule parks with complete disregard from surrounding neighborhoods in terms of traffic control, noise, property value, and most importantly public safety. The Parks and Recreation Commission readily admits that no formal or informal impact studies have been done with regard to these highly critical issues. He said it was true per the community task force which he did attend and participate in ~hat it was agreed Saratoga needs more playing fields. The focus group did not agree that Kevin Moran and Azule parks were suitable locations; in fact during the June 8th meeting they were expressly prohibited from talking about location; the intent they were told was to focus only on priorities. He said the organizers of the focus group informed the public that location would not be a part of the recommendation made during the July 17th meeting. Literally the first half hour was citizens expressing their concern of how they can make recommendations for priorities when not permitted to talk about the impacts of the locations. He said the reality which apparently the Council refuses to acknowledge is that Kevin Moran and Azule parks are completely inappropriate in terms of location. He pointed out that just because a need exists and there are some new found financial resources, does not mean natural resources i.e. appropriate location, to meet that need exists. He urged the Council not to ignore the constituents in Prides Crossing and Greenbriar. He said once again there are a large number of people present at the meeting tonight to try and make the Council understand that the public does not accept these two parks being built as currently proposed. He urged the Council to vote against this aspect of the Commission's recommendation; if the recommendation is approved as it currently stands, there will be citizens and residents continually opposing the execution of the plan using any recourse at their disposal. Gene Golobic, 12336 Terrence Avenue, referred to the letter submitted, dated February 21. He said he was disturbed at how the town hall City Council Agenda 5 July 17, 1996 meeting went last year, especially the conclusion of the remarks made by Councilmember Burger. He read the contents of the letter for the benefit of the audience. Mr. Golobic stated that a couple of weeks ago he went to the meeting where the task force committee made recommendations to the parks department. There was no discussion as to how the neighborhood park that apparently has been a neighborhood park for 20+ years became a community park; it just happened. There was also no mention in this agenda about the area at Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenue which seems to have excellent location, ample land, is centrally located and does not disturb two neighborhoods. He said the people are tired of going to meetings, and would like to get a decision once and for all. It would be interesting to find out what happened to Fruitvale and Saratoga and the community park vs. the neighborhood park. Mark Linsky, 14240 Barksdale Court, spoke in favor of the Parks and Recreation Commission recommendation. He said he has been a Saratoga resident for 20 years and has been involved in youth sports since 1977 particularly soccer and Little League. As a current board member of Saratoga AYSO he said he was in a position to help the Saratoga residents understand the key points. The message is simple: There are no longer enough playing fields for the children. Children are being turned away who want to play soccer because we have run out of playing space. He said it was his goal to help the Council understand the need for more fields, the value of providing more, and the kind of places that are best for Saratoga families. Mr. Linsky explained first the need: over the past three years participation has grown by 50% to the point that this year there has been an increase from 84 teams to 96 teams. This fall about half of the Saratoga children in grades K through 8 will be playing soccer. Congress Springs Park and Redwood Middle School is being utilized to full capacity for games every weekend. The value to the community is without question. AYSO is a positive program for all families that provides a fun, safe learning experience for both children and adults. Finally what spaces are acceptable for our families involved in soccer? Cooperation of the schools in Saratoga makes tremendous sense in improving their fields; in fact AYSO donated $10,000 to improving the Redwood Middle School field and donated nets for the goalposts. AYSO is willing and able to continue its contribution to field improvement and maintenance; however, that is not enough. Given a very conservative growth of soccer over the next three years, the need exists for 4 additional game fields and 6 additional practice fields in the fall and access to 6 game fields and 15 practice fields for spring soccer, during the baseball season. Mr. Linsky said he did not understand the comments that Kevin Moran and Azule parks are not adequate for soccer. A combination of additions and improvements to Kevin Moran park and Azule and Blue Hills School makes for an excellent family oriented soccer field; there is access to both that families can go; a place for kids to play multiples games on both fields. We need to invest in our youth and what better way to invest our money than a soccer field that can provide low cost, highly positive experience and activity for over half of the year. He appealed to the Council to do what is right for the children and for the families of Saratoga and accept the Parks and Recreation recommendation. Marianne Swan, 20300 La Paloma, asked that the Council vote positively on the Parks and Recreation recommendation. She reported that at last week's meeting there was a strong commitment from the community, the citizens of Saratoga, the school board and administration, and various user groups. She said there were definitely some positive community members that thought a joint effort could be worked out to help the community and children of Saratoga. She said she felt strongly that the Council should move forward, the community has been waiting long enough. Jules Farago, 12356 Saraglen Dr., said that he was familiar with Kevin Moran and Azule parks and that Kevin Moran Park is accessible on Saraglen and Scully Road. He said there was already an existing problem in that area with speed, specifically teenagers. He expressed concern about the speeding on Saraglen and Scully Road and said residents had to resort to taking license numbers and models of cars City CounCil Agenda 6 July 17, 1996 down because calling the Sheriff and asking for patrols was futile. He said that the parking on Rainbow and Blaney on weekends made it difficult to pass in a car, as well as added to the overstressed facilities. He said that if a sports field at Kevin Moran Park was added, it would only compound the situation. He stated his concern was not only for the residents of Saraglen and Scully but also for the children of the people who are going to be participants of the events at Kevin Moran park. With present traffic situation he said he did not feel it was the proper development for that area. Debbie Lillo, 12054 Kristy Lane read a letter into the record: 'I am a parent of two elementary children and one teenager and live in Saratoga; I am thrilled to see the Parks and Recreation Commission is taking a strong stand in support of the recreational needs of our young people; I applaud them for their thoroughness of their study and for the positive community experience that we had at our Saturday priority setting workshop. Their proposal was preceded by much thought and care. I believe and I urge you to approve it in its entirety. My younger children attend Blue Hills School where I actively work to see that the children of our community have every opportunity to grow and thrive. Our school is currently planning a' remodeling which is a one time remodelingprocess. As part of that our parents and staff planning committee urge the school district to partner with you to find a way to upgrade the fields at our school. This money is a one time expenditure for remodeling now. I don't have any confidence that money will be there in the future so I urge weconsider it at this time.' Blue Hills field area should support a soccer field, perhaps a baseball diamond in the corner and a running surface. During the day the children will certainly benefit from having a safe groomed field and a surface on which to play. After school hours the community would enjoy the field and track. We have more than 60 parking places at Blue Hills; they would provide parking relief to Azule and Kevin Moran park as well as more than ample parking for any games going on. Those three fields could be linked so the families could walk from field to field to local- games rather than driving. I realize that some have tried to argue to you that you should not prioritize Blue Hills School because it is not part of Saratoga School District. However, Blue Hills is attended almost entirely by Saratoga children whose parents pay taxes in Saratoga; AYSO and Bobbysox and CYSA use the fields, so the fields could be used by all Saratoga children, not just by Blue Hills children. All Saratoga residents would enjoy the beauty of Blue Hills as well as Azule and Kevin Moran parks. By partnering the fields with CUSD the city gains some new ground and we come out ahead. There is a great need in our city for playing fields as has been demonstrated; a cross section of our community voiced that need clearly at the June 8th meeting. Organized sports keep our young people active and healthy and keep them away from many less desirable things that they could be doing with their time. AYSO has already begun turning children away because there is not enough playing fields; the program is growing in a fast trend and that trend will continue to grow with AYSO, CYSA and Bobbysox are badly in need of fields. We as a community must work together to provide the fields for our children. I think this can be done without sacrificing safety." Phil Benaron, 19502 Northampton Drive, said that he has lived in Saratoga since 1954. He commended the task force for its diligence. He said he took issue that no recommendations were made without mention of public safety issues, traffic, parking, impact of the parking on Kevin Moran and children crossing the freeway to Blue Hills School. He stated he was not aware of any serious studies that have been conducted on safety issues and that they value the children and do not consider money wasted that is spent on studying those public safety issues. With one field at Blue Hills School, two at Azule and one at Kevin Moran within a quarter mile radius, he questioned the impact on the neighborhood. He said he would like the Council to seriously consider the many issues that have been raised, such as the increased use of schools. Mr. Benaron said that no mention has been made of Hansen School which is within a block of Kevin Moran park as a possible site. Sandy Cross, 12464 Scully Avenue, said that she recently purchased a home in Saratoga and only 72 hours prior realized that the City Council Agenda 7 - July 17, 1996 neighborhood's quiet peaceful park across the street from her home was being considered for extreme change. She said that she had recourse in her decision of where to live because she was not aware of the City plans to change the park when she purchased the home, but expressed concern for the residents in the neighborhood. She said had to make the sad choice of not remaining in the neighborhood because of the proposed changes to the neighborhood park. Heidi Parrish, 19523 Northampton, said that people coming from Saratoga to use Kevin Moran park will go down Miller Avenue and up Northampton. She said that her children's play space would be invaded; they play in the front yard, they play baseball in the streets; that part of our neighborhood is very safe; by developing a soccer field at Kevin Moran park and parking lots you are taking away their playing area. She said she would like to see the Blue Hills field improved as it was in bad shape with potholes and is dangerous for children to play on. She said she felt a playground is much more suited at Kevin Moran Park. Lots of people use Kevin Moran park for relaxing, walking dogs, etc. and valuable space will be lost by making soccer fields. She requested that when a decision is made, someone comes to the door to inform her what is happening, or a letter notifying residents of what is happening. Paul Lovoie, 19152 DeHavilland Drive, said he ran AYSO for five years and is now the area director for the South Bay AYSO program. He questioned what community was? A community without fire departments, orchards, libraries, isn't worth what Saratoga is worth in land values. He reported that Congress Springs Park has five fields serviced by Glenbrae and pointed out that the neighbors were not in an uproar and games have been played there for years. It is a residential area and supports five soccer fields in one place. He shared a recent incident where residents of neighborhoods were opposed to children playing soccer in Pajaro Valley in an open agricultural field. He also reported that two years ago when AYSO donated funds to Redwood School to help develop the fields and were unable to use the fields for one year, he had to go to West Valley College, our community college, to work out a deal for the AYSO to use the soccer fields. He said it took him almost 4 months of negotiations to get West Valley to agree to let the children use the fields because of opposition from neighbors. He said that the Director of Athletics at West Valley reported that the biggest single problem he had with the fields was that children were climbing the fences to play on the fields. Mr. Lovoie said he found this appalling. He pointed out that the soccer and baseball teams make compromises and we should consider compromises from the other side as well. Sonya Shurr, Cupertino Union School district, said the school district looks forward to future partnerships and agreements with the City of Saratoga to upgrade the school fields so that the school children as well as neighborhood and community children can benefit from the fields and upgrades that do occur. She said CUSDhad partnerships with the City of Sunnyvale for five fields, and just completed nine with the C~ty of Cupertino. Cindy Ruby, 14205 Squirrel Hollow Lane, President of the Saratoga Union School District Board of Trustees, said that the school board is very interested in collaboration with the City of Saratoga to approve more playing fields. She said they have attended all the meetings and commended the task force on the workshop held. She said they were very heartened that so many people came together and said that improving the fields was the second priority. Also the affirmation of the team activities was heartening. She reported that the school district was pursuing educational assessment this fall on its facilities needs for the next 10 years and the district is growing and playing fields are very much among the concerns. Ms. Ruby reported that the district was eager to enter into collaboration and partnership as a joint venture to do this and are ready to look at the sites. She said that Redwood Hills School has been very successful, the field is in use now. Over 60% of Saratoga children attend Saratoga schools and will use these fields both during the school day and in community activities. There are very supportive neighbors at our school where they support the level of activity; all schools are being used now; practice fields; City Council Agenda 8 ,July 17, 1996 there is not a problem with traffic and activity at these sites. Suggested that they go with the least resistance and we really do have a lot of support. She commended the Parks and Recreation Committee for deciding on the joint venture, stating it has worked well. Jill Hunter, 20606 Lomita Avenue, Saratoga Union School District Board of Trustees, said that Ms. Ruby covered the issues. She reiterated the support given by the board and commended the workshop, stating that she appreciated putting children as a priority. Rick Blomquist, 12430 Ted Avenue, surveyed the audience to see how many years they were residents. He said he sympathized with the concerns regarding property values, he said his home has appreciated Over time from $12,000 to $450,000. Concerns about safety - my kids have to walk across Seagull; he received quick responses from the Sheriff when called. He is sorry the orchards are gone, but the kids need a place to play soccer and he thinks it is very provincial for anyone to say that having a park as a neighborhood park which is part of the community would impact them in such a negative manner. When the reality is, it does exactly the opposite. In Europe soccer or cricket is a central part of the neighborhood community at large and he believes it should be continued here. Mary Helmers, 19875 Sea Gull Way, said that the freeway is now behind her home and a school in front. She expressed concern that more than 10% of the traffic on Sea Gull Wgy traveled well over 60 mph; they do not obey the stop signs. She said it is now unsafe for her husband to cross the street because of traffic, and calling the Sheriffs Department did no good. 10% of the traffic travel at 25 mph which is the posted speed limit; the rest travel at approximately 45 mph. She urged the Council to remedy the traffic situation before doing anything with the parks. Mark Ransler, 12488 Scully Avenue, said that to quote his wife "what part of 'no' doesn't the Council understand? He said they have appeared before, expressed concern about the traffic and parking problems which would be encountered and increase the risk of people getting injured. Elaine Clabeaux, 12357 Saraglen Dr., thanked the task force for their work. She asked the Council to consider Christa McAuliffe School and the land at Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenues for the large active play areas where there is parking, where it is already a very busy street and in her opinion logical for use. She said she would like to see the parks developed for all citizens of Saratoga. She said there were population surges and limited funds to develop the parks and if the parks are developed for only one activity then perhaps in ten years if soccer is not popular, the parks would not be able to be redeveloped. She asked that it be taken into consideration. Kevin Moran Park is being used at this time and there is not a parking lot there and it is one of the things that the neighborhood does not want. They want a place to play which is different than organized sports; a place for children and adults and friends to use the facility. She said she would like to see the park developed, there is usable space. She said most people in the Kevin Moran and Azule neighborhoods do not want to deny any children the use of Saratoga recreational space. There are a lot of activities to be concerned about and should be put in their proper places. Ms. Clabeaux urged the Council to consider Christa McAuliffe School on Prospect Road, and the Fruitvale and Saratoga Avenues space for this type of activity. Laurie Pakula, 19689 Northampton Drive, said that she concurred with Ms. Clabeaux, and recommended that the Council delay developing Kevin Moran and Azule Parks and continue working with the schools to develop soccer fields and then in a few years see what the community needs are and come back to the neighborhood if that is needed. She commended the task force for recommending play equipment in the park, and urged them to go ahead with the plan for all ages of children. She said the idea of a community garden could be worked out. Ms. Pakula said that the neighborhood is concerned about the amount of pavement, and would like to have some green areas open. City CouncilAgenda 9 July 17, 1996 Lisa Tam, 20311 Carol Lane, said that she lived in the Blue Hills neighborhood, was the school council president, and was also an AYSO coach. She said she was concerned with losing the potential opportunity for a joint venture with CUSD. She expressed concern about the speed problem in the Blue Hills neighborhood. There is parking, playground equipment and you could have a soccer field. She said that she had daughters and was excited about the growth of the soccer program. Mayor Jacobs closed the public input portion at 9:02 p.m. Councilmember Tucker said that there was a great deal of input from the audience expressing concern for the residents living near Kevin Moran and Azule parks, stating that there were speed problems and traffic problems. She questioned how long the problems had been occurring and if anyone had interacted with the Public Safety Commission to have them come out and look at the problems, and if so, what was the outcome. Mayor Jacobs said that he had been in communication with the Sheriffs Department in recent weeks and that complaints are constantly registered from all areas about the traffic. He reported that the Council will be focusing on law enforcement issues in early October at which time the Sheriff and his staff will be present to hear from the public and discuss issues regarding traffic and traffic safety. Relating to speeding problems, Mayor Jacobs said that in his discussions with the Sheriff, the Sheriff indicated in many instances they find that speed is more perception than reality, that in fact people are not doing more than 5 mph over the speed limit. They deal with it everywhere in Saratoga and will be discussing the issue and possible solutions. The Sheriff indicated that speed bumps don't solve the problem because people learn quickly how to avoid them and also the fire department is opposed to speed bumps because they destroy the undercarriage of the fire trucks. Mayor Jacobs pointed out that residents complain about speeders, but residents of Saratoga are the ones that are speeding. He said that increased traffic is an unfortunate part of our lives and is increasing everywhere. Mayor Jacobs reported that a new traffic safety unit has been added to the budget. Ms. Crotty said that the collaboration with the schools does not address the additional growth as well; the fields at the schools may be renovated and are already in use and that is why they were addressed as separate issues. She explained the reason that only the needs were discussed at the workshop to ensure that the needs would be prioritized and they would not have been if discussion included a variety of other issues. She said the task force was very upfront about that. Christa McAuliffe School is in the Cupertino School District and is already being used by soccer. She clarified that the list of joint use playing fields in the July 8 memo indicated playing fields already in use, and that it was decided that an additional four fields were needed. Councilmember Wolfe commended the Saratoga residents for their community spirit and passion. He said that there is an opportunity to make some positive changes in Saratoga and that now is the opportunity to participate in the partnership with the schools; some funds are available for development fees which will allow the city to create some playing opportunities for our youngsters and all citizens which is good news. He acknowledged the hard work the task force had done and pointed out that it is difficult to please everybody. The Council has to make decisions that they believe are in the best interest of the city. Of those decisions, he said he was hopeful one would be to work in collaboration with the schools who have available acreage and lots of opportunity to create cooperative partnership agreements. It has been accomplished in other towns and cities and he felt now was the chance for the city to take advantage of the opportunity to work with the schools and the city. Councilmember Wolfe addressed the possibility of utilization of orchard space which is looked upon as being sacred. He pointed out that children's playing fields are sacred as well and perhaps this could be part of a compromise between community and government. He questioned whether it had been considered City Council Agenda 10 July 17, 1996 and suggested that discussion be open to that. In response to Councilmember Burger°s question, City Manager Peacock said that the heritage orchard was 14 acres. Councilmember Burger said that up until the meeting and even while listening to the community input, she was trying to decide what was best for the community and she felt it was now time to step forward and make a commitment and some recommendations. She said that the school district is anxious to work with the city on renovation and development of the fields currently in the community which is a win-win situation to make the fields more accessible and amenable to the young people of the community who play soccer as well as other people. She said she favored the sports field development effort at the schools rather than at Kevin Moran or Azule parks. She said it would be appropriate to pursue the picnic benches, the community garden, BBQs, and playground equipment at Kevin Moran and Azule parks, with the realization that the city has an obligation to more than just the soccer players in the community. Councilmember Burger suggested 15 fields and some new fields at some of the schools, trying not to impact the Kevin Moran park neighborhood. Mayor Jacobs said he felt Azule parks was appropriate for development of soccer fields because it abuts Blue Hills School. He suggested that Kevin Moran Park be considered a passive park, and that it was not a good idea to leave it as it is. He said he felt there should be off street parking, and stated that he did not believe that off street parking produces crime; citing Wildwood Park as an example of a park being utilized, yet not having any parking. He said that if Kevin Moran Park was to be developed fully, there should be off street parking, it won't produce speeding; and develop it without soccer fields. He said he felt Azule Park in conjunction with Blue Hills School was appropriate for some soccer use. Blue Hills already has parking facilities. He pointed out that now the freeway noise drowns out the sounds from the playing fields. Mayor Jacobs said that he felt _ the city could work cooperatively with them relative to the restroom facilities. Councilmember Burger commented that in terms of the entire picture the city was limited in expenditure of funds as well as limited space to work with, therefore should concentrate on what it has available. Mayor Jacobs commented that because of the high cost of land_ in Saratoga, acquiring land for park use was difficult. Relative to the community center hub, he recommended that it be the first thing for reparation. He suggested the city look for a consultant to dosome master planning, but not put money aside for renovations because of the condition of the facility; it is a disaster, it is outdated, outmoded and should be torn down. Putting money into it is a waste of money. A master plan for the entire community hub is needed, from the library over to Redwood School and possiblydo something with the corporate yard as part of the plan. The city would then have to go to the public with a bond issue. With regard to the soccer fields, Mayor Jacobs said that he indicated earlier his feelings about Kevin Moran Park. He said it was his understanding and his observation that every school field, every field available in this city is being utilized to the extent physically possible. He said he was in agreement that a partnership with the schools to maximize the use of school facilities should be a major emphasis, even though it would not completely fill the need that exists for fields. There would still be some additional needs for fields. Mayor Jacobs proposed to give the task force one less field from what they were proposing. He said that there are few available areas left and some of the neighborhoods have stressed they don't want the parks in their neighborhood. He stated that the city must make parks available to as many people in the community as possible, the supply is limited and the demand is-tremendous. Relative to the statement made earlier by a community member that soccer might be.a fad sport and the need for the fields may not exist in the future, he pointed out that soccer is becoming more popular, but in ten years if the need for soccer fields is diminished, what could be easier to convert than a City Council Agenda 11 July 17, 1996 soccer field? Mayor Jacobs said that improvements of existing parks is a good idea and suggested more at Hakone Gardens, which is in dire need of improved restroom facilities. Mayor Jacobs suggested that a topic for future discussion should be a focus on how to pay for maintenance of what is being done. He said that as recommendations are adopted, such as additional soccer fields and picnic tables, BBQs, etc., the cost of maintaining the items and where the money is coming from needs to be established. Discussion continued regarding the development of soccer fields at Kevin Moran and Azule parks. Councilmember Wolfe questioned if it was possible to accept the recommendations but include additional changes and recommendations, such as restroom facilities at Hakone Gardens. Mayor Jacobs responded that the recommendations could be sent back to the task force with the changes discussed to be incorporated. Councilmember Tucker stated that all councilmembers weren't in agreement with some of the changes discussed. She commented that some of the councilmembers were leaning toward a soccer field at Azule, but not Kevin Moran PArk, yet the proposal was for a soccer field at both. She noted that the Council's final decision had to be submitted in writing. A discussion ensued regarding the group funding priority list and the allocations to each category. Councilmember Tucker said she would like more discussion on the community as the root for what was foreseen. Mayor Jacobs suggested working with what was available and not try to master plan it tonight. Councilmember Wolfe said he felt the Council should move forward and not delay things any longer. He suggested accepting the recreation task force committee report emphasizing continued passive use of Kevin Moran Park, enhancement of Hakone Gardens without specification. He suggested moving forward and have staff negotiate with the interested school districts for joint development of school sites. Mayor Jacobs summarized the changes to the recommendations: (1) Page 1, No. 1, eliminate 1B Phase I of Community Center renovation ($300,000) and simply have the master plan with $100,000 as our recommendation. (2) Page 2, Item 2b, eliminate "Kevin Moran Park - 1 new field soccer". (3) Item 3d, (Hakone Gardens), add "new restroom facilities". City Manager Peacock expressed concern about proceeding under the assumption that ADA funds could be used to do what is necessary for the Hakone restrooms. He explained that if anything other than simply converting them for disabled uses was done, ADA funds cannot be used at all. If the restrooms are going to be improved, the law states you now have to equip them for that. If all that is being done is converting it from not being so equipped, ADA funds can be used. If new facilities are being added or new facilities built, you cannot use ADA funds. Park funds or general funds monies must be used. Councilmember Burger said that if Kevin Moran Park was being considered for a passive park and some new off street parking was being considered for Azule, the landscape parking was not appropriate for Kevin Moran Park. Discussion continued wherein Councilmember Burger pointed out that if improvements were made to Kevin Moran Park more people would utilize it. Councilmember Moran said that the Azule site has more acres. She asked if there was consensus that the Council was considering one or two fields there with 2 acres of neighborhood park adjoining it. Mayor Jacobs said that the recommendation is one or two new fields with the planner to make the decision. City Manager Peacock said he is hearing the Council say it is looking City Council.Agenda 12 July 17, 1996 at Azule and Blue Hills schools as integrated facilities and that if that is done rather than draw some sort of artificial boundary line down the property line between the two facilities there would be more flexibility with design to be able to put facilities in places which you would otherwise not be able to. He said he understands this was the concept that the Council would be pursuing if Azule is considered for the playing field usage, because it would ultimately end up making sense for the community, the school and the neighborhood. Councilmember Moran noted that No. 2a is now changed and some money is changed. Councilmember Tucker clarified that the recommendations are not in order of priority or execution. She said she felt that improvements should be made to what is already there. She said it was a win-win situation that everyone was talking about. If positive steps are taken, more people will see the job the Council is doing and buy into the idea of the development. Councilmember Moran said that staff is always stretched to the limit and suggested the field issue proceed because there are available funds. The community center expansion study would wait until solid progress is made. City Manager Peacock summarized the recommendations: removing Phase I of the community center renovation as a project; removing the soccer field at Kevin Moran as a project; adding replacement of the restrooms at Hakone Gardens as a project. He said there was mention about the master planning work for $100,000 and there was nothing to indicate that could be used for developing the renovation of the school or the other park facilities, only the community hub. He said it was his assumption that the $700,000 for joint use of field and school that is also for architectural design work, layout work or contract work, as well as the construction work for all the others, the improvements to the parks, etc. If that is the case, there needs to be some- consideration of the $300,000 that is not going to be used for Phase I community center renovation to be put into the $200,000 extra money fund to ensure that there are funds for design and other things that go along with that. ,Councilmember Moran said it was her understanding that McAuliffe school was to be added to the list of possible sites for renovation. Councilmember Burger said that the task force and the community members that joined in at the meetings provided a broad-brush look at everything important to the community, and the Council needs to realize its own limitations in terms of what it can and cannot do and concentrate at this point and get an early start because of time constraints because the schools are doing reviews of their facilities. She emphasized that it was a win-win situation and the Council should concentrate on coming out with some excellence in terms of the development of the playing fields and renovations of some of the currently underdeveloped, underutilized parks. In response to Councilmember Moran#s question, Councilmember Burger said it was decided to do the master planning, but not move forward with Phase I. Councilmember Moran suggested agendizing the issue for the consent calendar to have a chance to get everything in order. She thanked the task force committee for their long hours and hard work. City Manager Peacock summarized the changes to the recommendations to be included in the motion: (1) $400,000 amount to be changed to $100,000 for the initial phase; (2) as there is no longer a (b) the letters (a) and (b) are deleted; language to remain the same; (3) Page 2, Item a: Change "6 fields" to "7 fields"; (4) Add McAuliffe School - I renovated field - multi use; (5) Add Blue Hills School/Azule Park; (when referring to Azule Park, put "Azule Park/Blue Hills School" which is an indication that we will meld them together. (6) Item b: Eliminate Keyin Moran Park - I new field - soccer; (7) Item d: Add "Replace restrooms at Hakone Garden" (S) Item 3 - Change amount from $400,000 to $500,000. (9)Page 3 - Item 4: "$200,000" should be "$400,000". City council Agenda 13 July 17, 1996 BURGER/WOLFE TO APPROVE THE TASK FORCE COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS WITH THE CHANGES SUMMARIZED ABOVE BY CITY MANAGER PEACOCK. PASSED 5-0. A brief discussion ensued regarding funding wherein City Manager Peacock stated that staff would return with cost estimates of field maintenance. Councilmember Tucker commented that all parks in Saratoga were community parks and were paid for by the taxpayers. She said that to her way of thinking a true neighborhood park is one that is paid for by the neighborhood and is maintained exclusively by them. Mayor Jacobs declared a recess at 10:03 p.m. The meeting reconvened at 10:19 p.m. with the same councilmembers and staff present. 8. NEW BUSINESS A. Oral Communications (continued) and instructions to staff regarding actions on current oral communications - None B. Resolution calling special elections: Binkley Project and Utility User Tax There was no oral staff report given. A written executive summary was submitted. Mayor Jacobs said he felt the Council should not provide an argument or rebuttal on the Binkley matter. TUCKER/MORAN TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 96-43.1 CALLING SPECIAL ELECTIONS: BINKLEY PROJECT AND UTILITY USER TAX. PASSED 5-0 TUCKER/MORAN TO DIRECT CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE IMPARTIAL ANALYSES~ TAKE NO ACTION TO PROHIBIT REBUTTALS~ AND APPOINT TWO COUNCILMEMBERS TO WRITE BALLOT ARGUMENTS FOR THE TAX MEASURE. PASSED 5-0 A discussion ensued regarding the appointment of two councilmembers to write ballot arguments. There was consensus that Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Burger would author the ballot argument. The Council made it clear that the two Councilmembers were writing the argument on behalf of the entire City Council, and that is the way it will be stated. Councilmember Wolfe pointed out that he did vote against Binkley going forward as a Measure G item last time; and inasmuch as Binkley and the Utility Users Tax are linked together, he would vote for the motion, but wanted the record to reflect that he was previously opposed to the principle inasmuch as the Binkley arrangement did not close any one specification of the user property. C. Household Sales Ordinance City Attorney Riback reviewed the Staff report explaining the ordinance to regulate the number of household sales (garage sales) per household each year. The ordinance also establishes the size of the sign to be placed on the property and limitsl the sign to one on-site sign advertising the garage sale. BURGER/TUCKER TO INTRODUCE ORDINANCE BY TITLE ONLY, WAIVING FURTHER READING IN FULL. PASSED 5-0 D. Resolution delegating authority to conduct business license revocation hearings to the city Manager ICity Manager Peacock explained that in every other instance in the Municipal Code the revocation of licenses and permits is handled by the City Manager. Until the Municipal Code is amended to make it consistent throughout, the City Council's authority is requested to delegate the authority to conduct business license revocation hearings to the City Manager. TUCKER/WOLFE TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 96-45 DELEGATING AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT City Council Agenda 14 July 17, 1996 PUBLIC HEARINGS TO CONSIDER POSSIBLE BUSINESS LICENSE REVOCATION HEARINGS TO THE CITY MANAGER. PASSED 5-0. 9. ROUTINE MATTERS A. Approval of Minutes - 6/29; 7/3; 7/5; 7/9 BURGER/MORANTO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE 6/29# 7/3# and 7/9 MEETINGS. PASSED 5-0 BURGER/MORAN TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE 7/5 MEETING. COUNCILMEMBER TUCKER ABSTAINED. PASSED 4-0-1 10. CITY COUNCIL ITEMS A. Agenda items for adjourned regular meeting August 13 - No items scheduled (joint meeting with Planning commission moved up to July 9) There were no other agenda items for the August 13 meeting. The July 23 City Council meeting agenda was discussed. City Manager reported that the meeting was scheduled to begin at 6:45 p.m. with a closed session for briefing on the status of litigation; 7:00 p.m. for quarterly reports and quarterly budget review; 8:00 p.m. presentation by the Fire Department regarding headquarters' station replacement; Public Works Director Perlin bid opening; and agency reports. Councilmembers Moran and Wolfe reported that they would not be present at the August 7 City Council meeting. A brief discussion ensued regarding councilmembers' schedules for the week of August 5 in the event a closed session was necessary. B. Other - None 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 10:37 p.m. to the next meeting at 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, at the Administration Meeting Room, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue. Respectfully submitted,