HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-03-2003 City Council Minutes
MINUTES
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
DECEMBER 3, 2003
The City Council of the City of Saratoga met in Closed Session, Administrative
Conference Room. 13777 Fruitvale Avenue. at 6:00 p.m.
Conference with Legal Counsel - Threatened Litigation: Significant exposure to
litigation pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(b): (1 potential case)
Conference with Legal Counsel - Consideration of Liability Claims (Gov't Code
54956.95):
Claimant: Charles O'Leary
Agency claimed against: City of Saratoga
Conference with Legal Counsel - Consideration of Liability Claims (Gov't Code
54956.95):
Claimant: Zoreh Tabatabaie
Agency claimed against: City of Saratoga
MAYOR'S REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION -7:00 p.m.
Mayor Streit reported there was Council discussion but no action was taken.
Mayor Streit called the Regular City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and lead the
Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Councilmembers Stan Bogosian, Kathleen King
Norman Kline, Vice Mayor Ann Waltonsmith,
Mayor Nick Streit
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT: Dave Anderson, City Manager
Lorie Tinfow, Assistant City Manager
Richard Taylor, City Attorney
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk
Jesse Baloca, Administrative Services Director
Tom Sullivan, Community Development Director
John Cherbone, Public Works Director
Cay Bloomquist, Administrative Analyst
REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF AGENDA FOR DECEMBER 3,
2003
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk, reported that pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2,
the agenda for the meeting of December 3, 2003 was properly posted on November 26,
2003.
COMMUNICATIONS FORM COMMISSIONS & PUBLIC
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
The following person requested to speak at tonight's meeting:
Jerry Bruce noted that he was representing Federated Church. Mr. Bruce stated that
Federated fully supports the proposed pedestrian activated light at the intersection of
Highway 9 and Oak Place.
COMMUNICATIONS FORM COMMISSIONS
None
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
Referring to Mr. Bruce's comments, Councilmember Bogosian requested that the
pedestrian activated light be discussed when the CIP comes back to Council.
Councilmember Kline supported Councilmember Bogosian request.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
None
CEREMONIAL ITEMS
None
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
None
CONSENT CALENDAR
lA. REVIEW OF CHECK REGISTER
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve check register.
WALTONSMITHlKLINE MOVED TO APPROVE CHECK REGISTER.
MOTION PASSED 5-0.
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lB. 2004 HAZARDOUS VEGETATION PROGRAM COMMENCEMENT
RESOLUTION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt resolution and set a public hearing date.
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 03-076
Councilmember King requested that item lB be removed from the Consent
Calendar.
Councilmember King asked ifthe County would be sending two notices to
effected property owners.
City Clerk Boyer noted that she would contact the County Fire Marshall's Office
and report back to Council.
KING/W ALTONSMITH MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION DECLARING
HAZARDOUS VEGETATION GROWING ON CERTAIN DESCRIBED
PROPERTY TO BE A PUBLIC NUISANCE AND SETTING A PUBLIC
HEARING. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
lC. REQUEST SANTA CLARA COUNTY TO AMEND THEIR SANBORN
PARK TRAILS MASTER PLAN TO INCLUDE AN EASEMENT ACROSS
COUNTY OWNED QUARRY LAND FOR POSSIBLE TRAIL
DEVELOPMENT
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt resolution.
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 03-077
Councilmember King requested that item 1 C be removed from the Consent
Calendar.
Councilmember King stated that this was the request from the County to amend
their Sanborn Trails Master Plan. Councilmember King stated that she recently
discussed this property with the County and was told that Mid Peninsula Open
Space District may be interested in this property. Councilmember King stated that
Mid Pen suggested that the City get an appraisal on the property.
Councilmember King asked if staff could be directed to get an appraisal of the
property.
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City Attorney Taylor stated that it would not be appropriate for Council to give
staff direction this evening, but can place the item on a future agenda.
Councilmember King requested that the staff be directed to return to Council at the
next meeting with a report in regards to hiring an appraiser for the Quarry
property.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith noted that she supported Councilmember King's request.
Vice Mayor WaItonsmith requested that the resolution also be sent to the Board of
Supervisors and the Road and Airports Division.
WALTONSMlTH/KING MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING
INTEREST IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUARRY AS "SARATOGA TO
THE SEA TRAIL" AS AMENDED. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
!D. CLAIM OF CHARLES O'LEARY: CLAIM NO. GL-055255
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Reject claim.
Councilmember Kline requested that item 1D be removed from the Consent
Calendar.
Councilmember Kline requested that an update to the Claims Policy be drafted and
brought back to Council in the near future.
KLINE/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO SETTLE CLAIM OF CHARLES
O'LEARY. MOTION PASSED 4-1 WITH W ALTOSNMTIH OPPOSING.
IE. CLAIM OF ZOREH TABATABAIE: CLAIM NO. GL-054954
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Reject claim.
W ALTONSMITHlKLINE MOVED TO REJECT CLAIM OF ZOREH
TABATABAIE. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. REVISED TREE ORDINANCE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Conduct Public Hearing; review changes suggested by the Tree Committee; give
Ordinance 1 st Reading; direct staff to place item on the next Agenda's Consent
Calendar for Second Reading and Adoption.
Tom Sullivan, Community Development Director, presented staff report.
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Director Sullivan stated that the new Tree Ordinance Committee met on October
29,2003 and addressed the issues that had been raised during the last Public
Hearing. Director Sullivan noted that the City also received a letter from Cheriel
Jensen. Ms. Jensen requested that the number ofIisted native trees be increased
and suggested to decrease the size that some natives would be considered
protected. The Committee discussed Ms. Jensen suggestions and made
recommendations to the ordinance.
Director Sullivan stated that following the adoption of the new tree regulations
staff would modify the City's Tree Protection Handbook to ensure that it is fully
consistent with the new ordinance and would prepare a series of educational
articles for the Saratogan.
Mayor Streit opened the public hearing and invited any public input
F.L. Stutzman noted that he supports the ordinance but is concerned that the
$5,000 penalty is not high enough.
Robert Zager thanked the Council for appointing him to the subcommittee and
noted that he feels the City should adopt a "Good Forestry Practice".
Cheriel Jensen suggested a couple of types tree species be removed from the
protected tree list.
Holly Davies noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance.
Marge Ottenberg noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance.
Isabel GIoege noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance.
Muriel Maher noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance.
Jill Hunter noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance except would like
to see the appeal process remain at the Planning Commission level.
Elizabeth Lora stated that Director Sullivan did a great job crafting the proposed
ordinance. Ms. Lora noted that she fully supports the proposed ordinance except
would like to see the appeal process remain at the Planning Commission level.
Jeff Schwartz noted that he fully supported the proposed ordinance.
Tom Corson made suggestions to the ordinance. Mr. Corson pointed out that the
section on required replacement of trees should be clearer, it has been his
experience that replacement trees never get planted.
Vic Monia noted that he fully supports the proposed ordinance.
Chandru Idnani noted that he supports the preservation of trees because of their
beauty and their ability to reduce noise.
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Mayor Streit closed the public hearing.
Councilmember King suggested that the City start a neighborhood mediation
program.
Director Sullivan noted that staff would be bring a report forward in January 2004
in regards to mediation.
Councilmember Bogosian requested that the City initiate the process to develop a
Forestry Plan.
Councilmember Kline supported Councilmember Bogosian request.
W ALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO WAVE THE FIRST READING OF
THE ORDINANCE; DIRECT STAFF TO PLACE ITEM ON THE NEXT
AGENDA'S CONSENT CALENDAR FOR SECOND READING AND
ADOPTION. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
OLD BUSINESS
3. ALTERNATE PROPOSAL FOR THE COMMEMORATIVE BENCH FOR
WILL YS PECK AT THE SARATOGA LIBRARY
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Consider an alternate approach to honoring WiIlys Peck with a bench at the
Saratoga Library.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to December 17,2003.
4. DEANZA/PG&E TRAIL PUBLIC PROCESS OPTIONS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and provide direction to staff regarding the pubic process.
Cary Bloomquist, Administrative Analyst, presented staff report.
Analyst Bloomquist stated that at the October 15th City Council meeting staff was
directed to move ahead with the process of developing a pedestrian/cycling trail on
PG&E right-of-way lands running parallel to the railroad tracks between Saratoga
and Saratoga-Sunnyvale Avenue. Council requested that staff generate options for
an active public process and project development, which would occur over an
estimated 12-24 month time frame.
Analyst Bloomquist stated that public outreach for this meeting consisted of:
· A direct mailer card to all 11 ,800 Saratoga households
· A letter to 4,210 households within 500 feet of the proposed project
· Hand delivered the same letter to over 50 homes in the Fredericksburg
Drive neighborhood
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Analyst Bloomquist presented three possible action plans to the City Council in
order to move forward with the process for the proposed proj ect:
· Action 1
Determine type and composition of body to conduct the public input
process and project such as the Parks and Recreation Commission, Council
AdHoc, or Blue Ribbon Committee.
· Action 2
Provide direction to staff regarding the use of a professional facilitator to assist
with the public.
· Action 3
Direct staff to develop a cooperative agreement with the VTA and draft an
escrow agreement with the anonymous donor for the purposes ofprocuring
funding for the project.
Councilmember Kline noted that he thinks the three points should be reversed.
Councilmember Kline stated that the funding sources should be secured first and
then a facilitator should be contracted using funds from VTA and the anonymous
donor.
Director Cherbone responded that the actions presented tonight would happen
concurrently.
Darren Deffuer, PG&E/Government Affairs Representative, noted that this project
along their right-of-way is consistent with use oftheir property. Mr. Deffuer
stated that PG&E recognizes that tonight's decision is only the beginning of the
process and there are no specific plans on the table. Mr. Deffuer stated that
PG&E would like to think the City would address some of their concerns such as
safety, access, and maintenance. Mr. Deffuer stated that PG&E looks forward to
be a part of the process.
Robert Battalia noted that his concern is the increase of noise and cars in his
neighborhood if the trail project moves forward. Mr. Battalia noted that an EIR
has not been done nor has the neighbors concerns ofliability and maintenance
issues been addressed. Mr. Battalia noted that he opposes the project.
Cal Coran noted that he has lived in the neighborhood for 30 years. Mr. Coran
stated that he opposes the project.
Michael Gilbert noted that he lives near the trail and fully supports the project.
Sally O'Hearn stated that the proposed project would impact her quality oflife.
Ms. O'Hearn noted that there are many other trails throughout Saratoga. Ms.
O'Hearn noted that she opposes the project.
Lyle Leverich stated that he thinks the trail comes from nowhere and goes
nowhere. Mr. Leverich stated that he opposes the project.
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Alden Heintz requested that City Council to take the time to look at the whole
picture. Ms. Heintz stated that ifthe trail is paved it would bring in different types
of users. Ms. Heintz pointed out that the area around Rodeo Creek is a wild
animal habitat and may need protective fencing.
Margaret McCartney explained that her house backs up against Congress Spring
Park and is opposed to the project. Referring the letter Mr. Brooks send to the
neighborhood, Ms. McCarthy noted that she was shocked that he would have the
audacity to send out such a letter.
Bob Wallace suggested that the City secure the land and look at the project in the
future.
Donna Poppenhagen noted that she has lived in her neighborhood for 35 years and
is opposed to the project. Ms. Poppenhagen stated that her concerns, safety and the
potential danger at the rail crossing at Cox A venue. Ms. Poppenhagen stated she
feels the project is being rushed through the process.
Jack Palmtag noted that he opposes the proj ect and thinks it is a waste of money.
Rita Witmer noted that she opposes the project and thanked the Council for all of
noticing she received in regards to this meeting. Mrs. Witmer asked how the City
could possible built another trail with the current budget constraints.
Bill Witmer stated that in 2001,85 people directly affected by the trail signed a
petition opposing the trail and submitted it the City. Mr. Wittmer stated that in
November 2003, a second petition was submitted to the City with 168 names
opposing the trail. Mr. Wittmer stated that the City assured the neighbors that the
trail project would not move forward without neighborhood buy in.
Cheriel Jensen noted that she has been walked many trails all over the county and
never experienced any of the problems mentioned here this evening. Ms. Jensen
noted that she supports the project.
Richard Brown noted hat he has lived here for 29 years and urged the Council not
to go forward with the trail.
Joe Walton noted that he is a City of Cupertino resident and lives along a trail.
Mr. Walton noted in order for the proj ect to be a success the neighbors concerns
need to be mitigated. Mr. Walton stated that he supported the project.
Diane Reese her entire back fence runs along the trail. Mr. Reese stated that many
people currently use the trail as is and she has never had any problems. Ms. Reese
stated that the project would make the trail safer and cleaner.
Marge Ottenberg noted that she has lived in Saratoga for 42 years and the last ten
years she has been riding her bicycle along the trail to get to De Anza College.
Mrs. Ottenberg noted that someday the railroad line will be deserted and at that
time the land could be sold to VTA for a light rail system. Ms. Ottenberg stated
that she doesn't' think that formalizing the trail would bring in more users.
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Pat Andresen noted that she uses the trail frequently. Ms. Andresen noted that the
City doesn't have the funds to maintain or protect another trail. Ms. Andresen
noted that she opposes the project.
Bret Bigley noted that his property abuts the trail and stated that he opposed the
development of the trail. Mr. Bigley pointed out that there are currently several
other places to walk throughout the City.
Una Daily noted that her concerns are safety and security.
Isabel GIoege noted that she fully supported the trail.
Steve Benzing noted that he opposed the development ofthe trail. Mr. Benzing
stated that formalizing the trail would increase noise and traffic in his
neighborhood.
Sondra Benzing noted that her property abuts the trail and noted that she does not
support any further development of it.
Sue Barrera noted that she opposed the development of the trail.
Steve Olson noted that he is a Mountain view resident who lives along a trail.
Mr. Olsen stated that he has no particular vested interest in this trail but was
present tonight to give his support. Mr. Olson stated that he and his neighbors
shad similar concerns that have been voiced this evening. Mr. Olsen stated that
studies have shown that crimes on urban trails are usually based on the crime rate
in the community.
Annie Ng noted that she was a Cupertino resident and was the Chair of the UPRR
Trail Task Force a few years ago. Ms. Ng encouraged the City to move forward
with the process ofthe trail.
Phillip Baker noted that he was representing the Youth Commission. Mr. Baker
noted that the Youth Commission fully supports the development of the trail.
Marty Goldberg noted that he supports the development of this trail.
Louise Schaffer presented the Council with a letter because she lost her voice.
Councilmember King read Ms. Schaffer's letter stating that she supported the
development of the trail.
Maria Guerra that she opposed the development of the trail
Vic Monia noted that he supports the development of this trail.
Anne Dunham noted that her property is in the County and directly is in front of a
Mid Peninsula Open Space Trail entrance. Ms. Dunham stated that she has never
had any problems since the trail opened.
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Howard Miller stated that he lives along Highway 85. Mr. Miller stated that he
moved here before Highway 85 opened. Mr. Miller stated some days it is really
loud. Mr. Miller stated that his house has been robbed. Mr. Miller stated that he
fully supports the trail because it would be a great benefit to the community just
like Highway 85.
Doug Robertson stated that he is a new resident to Saratoga and moved here
because of the quality ofIife and the schools. Mr. Robertson noted that he
supports the development ofthis trail and stated that the neighbors need to be
included in the process.
Chuck Jacobsonlloted that he supports the development of this trail.
Logan Deimler noted that he supports the development of this trail.
William Brooks noted that he supports the development ofthis trail.
Patty Ciesla noted that she represented the Santa Clara County Parks and
Recreation Commission. Ms. Ciesla stated that studies have shown that people
who live along trails have the greatest benefits.
Walter Spector noted that he supports the development of this trail in an effort to
get more cars off the roads in Saratoga.
Dennis Dumont noted that he supports the development of this trail.
Julie Daniel noted that she supports the trail as is but the City should move
forward to secure the land as open space.
Sandra Dodge noted that she is a Parks and Recreation Commissioner.
Commissioner Dodge stated that the City has to establish this land as an easement.
Commissioner Dodge stated that the PRC is willing to facilitate public forums to
help the Council with the process.
Ray Cosyn noted that he supports the development of this trail.
Jeanne Carter stated that the people in favor of the trail do not live near the trail
and will not be affected. Ms. Carter asked how the City would police the trail.
Captain John Hirakawa, representing the SCC Sheriffs Department, stated that he
cannot find any correlation between pathways/trails and home burglaries. Captain
Hirakawa stated that burglaries don't go up with new trails.
Mayor Streit asked if the Sheriff s Department have the capability to use deputies
on bicycles.
Captain Hirakawa responded that it was a possibility.
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Ben Lopes, Chief/Santa Clara County Fire District, noted that the District would
be interested in the being involved in the process. The District's concerns with the
trail are access, vegetation, and maintenance.
Gordon Duncan, Chief/Saratoga Fire Protection District, stated that he has over 20
years of experience with bike trails. Chief Duncan stated that adequate access has
been a priority. Chief Duncan noted he believes that crimes along this trail would
be minimal.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith noted that she feels parks and trails are amenities to the
community. Vice Mayor Waltonsmith believes this trail, addressing the concerns
of the neighbors, would be a great amenity to the community. Vice Mayor
WaItonsmith noted that the City must go forward with this proj ect.
Councilmember Kline thanked everyone for coming this evening and pointed out
that there seems to be a split vote in the community for and against the trial.
Councilmember Kline noted that the arguments on both sides were very
impressive. Councilmember Kline noted that he was involved in the City of Santa
Clara's San Tomas Aquino Trail. Councilmember Kline noted that this trail added
value to the surrounding properties. Councilmember Kline noted that he supports
moving forward if the funds are secured.
Councilmember Bogosian pointed out that this discussion was democracy at it's
best. Councilmember Bogosian stated that he was concerned about the costs for
maintaining the trail since the City could be facing a 20% budget cut.
Councilmember Bogosian stated that ifthe project were to move forward the scope
of work should be clearly defined and the City hire a neutral facilitator.
Councilmember King noted that she concurred with her colleagne's comments and
the City should do their due diligence to mitigate the neighborhood's concerns.
Mayor Streit stated that he supports moving forward with the project. Mayor Streit
noted that the first step must be to secure the funding sources.
Ceil Chung, VTA/Bicycle Program Coordinator, stated that the first phase of
investigation would be funded from Measure B. Currently there is approximately
$12 million for Santa Clara County and only $3 million has been programmed.
These funds are programmed in phases. Ms. Chung stated that there are no
restrictions on what measure B funds could be used. Ms. Chung stated that the
overall allocation for this project is $1.6 million.
A discussion took place in regards to the anonymous donor agreement.
Councilmember Kline asked if the name of the donor would be made public.
Director Cherbone noted that the donor would like to remain anonymous because
ofthe opposition. The donor feels intimidated.
Vice Mayor WaItonsmith noted that eventually a plaque would be placed on the
trail.
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City Attorney Taylor noted that the structure of the agreement would be for the
anonymous donor to set up an escrow account. The agreement would be public
information but the donor has given their attorney the power to speak on their
behalf.
Councilmember Kline noted that an anonymous donor is bad government.
Councilmember Kline noted that he would not support the project because of this.
W ALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO DIRECT STAFF TO DEVELOP A
COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH THE VTA AND DRAFT AN
ESCROW AGREEMENT WITH THE ANONYMOUS DONOR FOR THE
PURPOSES OF PROCURING FUNDING FOR THE PROJECT. MOTION
PASSED 4-1 WITH KLINE OPPOSING.
W ALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO DIRECT STAFF TO PREPARE AN
RFP FOR A PROFESSIONAL FACILTIOR AND RETURN TO COUNCIL
TO DISCUSS OPTIONS FOR SELECTING THE FACILITOR. MOTION
PASSED 5-0.
5. ANIMAL CONTROL ALTERNATIVES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Dave Anderson, City Manager, presented staff report.
City Manager Anderson stated that at the October 15, 2003 City Council meeting
Council directed staff to issue a request for proposals to San Jose for Animal
Control Services. The RFP was presented to the Council at the November 19,
2003 meeting. City Manager Anderson noted that negotiations are ongoing with
San Jose to refine and clarify provisions in the RFP response. As reported on
November 19th City Managers worked with the SV AC staff to put together several
alternatives for Cupertino, Los Gatos and Saratoga to consider. The alternatives
were presented to the SV ACA Board on November 24th.
City Manager Anderson stated that the SV ACA Board discussed the City
Manager's proposal and approved options 1 and 2. Option 1 would maintain the
JP A as is, but reduce the shelter contribution for Cupertino, Los Gatos, and
Saratoga to match that required in San Jose's proposal and is intended to provide
competitive level of service and cost of operation. The equity position would be
proportionate to the contribution and the Board composition and voting structure
would remain the same. The Board also acted to authorize staffto negotiate with
the owner ofthe Thomas Road property to extend earnest money deadline to
February 15, 2004. The Board also acted to extend the deadline for withdrawal
from SV ACA to January 25,2004.
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City Manager Anderson explained stated that under Option 2, the three cities
would withdraw from the JP A, and would enter into separate contracts with the
JP A for field and shelter services. The capital contribution would be the same as
quoted in the San Jose proposal and would be "non-equity" positions.
City Manager Anderson stated that both the SV ACA and San Jose proposal would
be presented and analyzed in a comprehensive report at the December l7'h City
Council meeting.
In addition, Councilmember Bogosian added that it looks like SV ACA would be
given an extension on the Thomas Road property.
Mayor Streit thanked City Manager Anderson for his update.
NEW BUSINESS
6. FIRE ALARM COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Jesse Baloca, Administrative Services Director, presented staffreport.
Director Baloca explained that at the November 5, 2003 City Council meeting, the
bid for the contract for the installation of a fire alarm system was awarded. The
contract provided materials, equipment and labor to install fire alarms at the Civic
Center AdministrationIPlanning buildings and the Civic Theatre.
Director Baloca stated that during Council's review, the issue regarding the
potential savings in insurance premiums if fire alarms were installed in the public
works corporation yard and the Warner Hutton House was raised.
Director Baloca explained the City's membership in the Association of bay Area
Government (ABAG) liability pool. According to the City's Risk Manager at
ABAG, the overall values ofthe property program are so large that the change
probably won't be reflected in the premium.
Consensus of the City Council to bring this item back for review in one year.
Mayor Streit thanked Director Baloca for his report.
Mayor Streit declared a break at 11: 1 0 p.m.
Mayor Streit reconvened the meeting at 11 :25 p.m.
7. LAFCO COUNCIL ADHOC COMMITTEE REPORT ON COUNTY-WIDE
FIRE PROTECTION SERVICE REVIEW
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and pride further direction to City staff and Council Subcommittee.
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Dave Anderson, City Manager, presented staff report.
City Manager Anderson stated that the draft countywide Fire Protection Service
Review report was issued on November 18,2003. The Service Review includes
all fire service agreements in the County including seven city fire departments and
four Fire Protection Districts.
City Manager Anderson stated that the report includes a special in-depth report on
regional fire protection alternatives for Saratoga and surrounding areas. This
special area of study was initiated because of a concern with duplication of service
with two separate jurisdictions providing for emergency and EMS response in the
City of Saratoga. The report presents four alternatives related to possible
governmental reorganization of the for service delivery, including:
1) Dissolution ofthe Saratoga Fire Protection District and annexation to
County Fire
2) The City withdrawing from both Districts and making a decision about
unified approach to service delivery to the City of Saratoga
3) Expansion ofthe Saratoga Fire protection District into the County fire area
of the City of Saratoga
4) Continuation ofthe current approach with/without additional service
improvements
City Manager Anderson stated that LAFCO consultants would present this item at
the LAFCO meeting on December 10,2003. A public hearing is scheduled for
February 11, 2004. LAFCO is soliciting comments from the affected agencies and
the public by January 7, 2004.
City Manager Anderson explained to the City Council the four recommendations
formed by the LAFCO AdHoc Subcommittee to pass on to LAFCO.
Hal Toppel, Attorney/SFPD, noted that the SFPD would provide LAFCO a full
response. Mr. Toppel noted that he found many factual errors in the report. Mr.
Toppel requested that the City meet with the SFPD before responding to the
report.
Ed Femell noted that he is in the SFPD service area and requested a copy of SFPD
response to LAFCO.
Ben Lopes, Chie£'Santa Clara County Fire District, noted that both districts have a
lot at risk. Chief Lopes pointed out that the report identifies issues throughout the
county not just in Saratoga. Chief Lopes noted that he also found a few factual
errors.
Discussion took place amongst the Council in regards to the recommendations of
the LAFCO Subcommittee.
Consensus of the City Council to direct the LAFCO Subcommittee with meet with
both districts before January 7, 2004.
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8. COMMISSION VACANCY UPDATE AND PROPOSED INTERVIEW
DATES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to December 17,2003.
9. CITY COUNCIL POLICES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to December 17, 2003.
AGENCY ASSIGNMENTS
Mayor Nick Streit had nor reportable information.
Vice Mayor Ann Waitonsmith had no reportable information.
Councilmember Kathleen King had no reportable information.
Councilmember Norman Kline
Library Joint Powers Association - JP A Board passed two resolutions in regards to the
March 2004 ballot. Campaign fundraising efforts are low.
Councilmember Stan Bogosian had no reportable information.
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Referring to the new Chamber of Commerce Directory, Vice Mayor Waltonsmith pointed
out that it is very nice.
OTHER
None
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
None
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ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Streit declared the meeting adjourned at
12:05 a.m.
~d,
C er, CMC
City Clerk
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