HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-17-2002 City Council MinutesMINUTES
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
APRIL 17, 2002
The City Council of the City of Saratoga met in Closed Session, Administrative
Conference Room, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue at 5:30 p.m.
Conference With Legal Counsel -Existing Litigation (2 cases):
(Government Code section 54956.9(x))
Name of case: Saratoga Fire Protection District v. City of Saratoga (Santa Clara
County Superior Court No. CV-803540)
Name of case: City of Saratoga v. Michael S. Costa (Santa Clara County Superior
Court No. CV-806843)
Conference With Real Property Negotiators (Section 5496.8):
Property: 19848 Prospect Road
Agency negotiator: Daue Anderson, City Manager
Negotiating parties: Grace Methodist Church
Under negotiation: Instructions to negotiate regarding price and terms
for purchase of real property.
Initiation of litigation (Gov't Code Section 54956.9(c): (1 potential case)
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 Re ular City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and requested
Richard Taylor, City Attorney, to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.
Mayor Streit requested a moment of silence to honor the late Burton Brazil, founding
Mayor of the City of Saratoga.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Councilmembers Stan Bogosian, John Mehaffey,
Ann Waltonsmith, Vice Mayor Evan Baker,
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
john Cherbone, Director of Public Works
Tom Sullivan, Community Development Director
REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF AGENDA FOR APRIL 17, 2002
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk, reported that pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2,
the agenda for the meeting of April 17, 2002 was properly posted on April 12, 2002.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMISSIONS & PUBLIC
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
The following person requested to speak at tonight's meeting:
Oakley Brooks, Saratoga News, noted that Apri126, 2002 would be his last day with the
Saratoga News. Mr. Brooks introduced his replacement, Kate Carter.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
Mayor Streit noted that the Planning Commission has requested that the City Council
place an item on a future agenda to discuss the hillside development occurring in Santa
Clara County but within the City's Sphere of Influence.
WALTONSMITH/MEHAFFEY MOVED TO AGENDIZE THE PLANNING
COMMISSION REOUF.ST TO PLACE AN ITEM ON A FUTURE AGENDA.
MOTION PASSED 5-0.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
None
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
None
CEREMONIAL ITEMS
lA. PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE WEEK OF APRIL 21-27, 2002
"VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK"
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Read proclamation.
Mayor Streit noted that this proclamation was read at the reception for the
volunteers held in the preschool.
1B. RESOLUTION COMMENDING MAYURI NAITO- SARATOGA
VOLUNTEER
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Present commendation.
Mayor Streit read the commendation and presented it to Mayuri Naito,
2 Apri117,2002
1C. RESOLUTION COMMENDING BETTY FELDHEYM
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Present commendation.
Councilmember Bogosian stated that he has known Mrs. Feldheym all of his life.
Councilmember Bogosian stated that as long as he can remember Mrs. Feldheym
and her husband have always been advocates for affordable housing in Saratoga.
Mayor Streit read the commendation and presented it to Betty Feldheym.
CONSENT CALENDAR
2A. APPROVE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
ADJOURNED MEETING -FEBRUARY 12, 2002
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes.
Councilmember Mehaffey requested that Item 2A be pulled from the Consent
Calendar.
Councilmember Mehaffey stated that he was absent and would abstain from the
vote.
Vice Mayor Baker requested that on page 10, 6`h paragraph, the following words
"seems like a pro business " should be changed to say "does not seem like a pro
business ".
WALTONSMITH/ MOVED TO APPROVE COUNCIL MINUTES OF
FEBRUARY 12, 2002 AS AMENDED. MOTION PASSED 3-0-1-0.
2B. APPROVE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
ADJOURNED MEETING -MARCH 12, 2002
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve minutes.
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO APPROVE COUNCIL MINUTES OF
MARCH 12.2002. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
2C. REVIEW OF CHECK REGISTER
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve check register.
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO APPROVE THE CHECK REGISTER.
MOTION PASSED 5-0.
April 17, 2002
2D. FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR THE MONTHS ENDING MARCH 2002
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept reports.
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO APPROVE FINANCIAL REPORTS FOR
MARCH 2002. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
2E. REVIEW PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION MINUTES -
APRIL 10, 2002
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Note and file.
Councilmember Bogosian requested that item 2E be pulled from the Consent
Calendar.
Councilmember Bogosian stated that he feels the Planning Commission should not
have made the decision to direct staff to re-poll the Saratoga Woods neighborhood
regarding the proposed single story overlay; this should be a Council directive.
Councilmember Bogosian requested that this item be agendized at the next City
Council meeting.
BOGOSIAN/STREIT MOVED TO NOTE AND FILE THE PLANNING
ACTION MINUTES OF APRIL 10, 2002 WITH THE EXCEPTION OF
THE DISCUSSION OF THE DIRECTION TO RE-POLL SARATOGA
WOODS NEIGHBORHOOD REGARDING THE PROPOSED SINGLE
STORY OVERLAY. THIS ITEM IS TO BE PLACED ON THE NEXT CITY
COUNCIL AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION. MOTION PASSED 4-0-1-0 WITH
BAKER ABSTAINING.
2F. AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE AGREEMENT AND
RELEASE WITH YEO BAI LEE AND HEEJA LEE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize execution of agreement and release.
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO
EXECUTE AGREEMENT WITH YEO LEE AND HEEJA LEE. MOTION
PASSED 5-0.
2G. RESOLUTION FOR MURRAY-HAYDEN PROGRAM GRANT
APPLICATION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt application.
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 02-023
q April 17, 2002
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVING THE
APPLICATION FOR GRANT FUNDS FOR THE MURRAY-HAYDEN
PROGRAM UNDER THE SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS, CLEAN
WATER, CLEAN AIR, AND COASTAL PROTECTION BOND ACT OF
2000
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION FOR MURRAY-
HAYDEN GRANT. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
2H. RESOLUTION ENDORSING AB 2351 INTRODUCED BY ASSEMBLY
MEMBER CANCIAMILLA
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt application.
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 02-024
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL ENDORSING ASSEMBLY BILL
2351
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION ENDORSING
AB2351U. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
2I. CONGRESS SPRINGS PARK-APPROVAL OF AYSO USER
AGREEMENT
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve User Agreement for three years, waive payment of Use Fee for one year,
Approve prepayments of use fee for years two and three of User Agreement.
Vice Mayor Baker requested that Item 2I be pulled from the Consent Calendar.
Vice Mayor Baker stated that he attended the PRC meeting at the time this
agreement was discussed. Vice Mayor Baker stated that the commission did not
come to a decision regarding prepayment of use fees. He supports the agreement,
but is concerned on what basis did AYSO estimate their usage in the future on the
mix of resident and nonresident.
Mayor Streit stated that the agreement is the same as Saratoga Little League except
AYSO did not contribute enough to get the fees waived for three years so they are
willing to prepay in order to finish the park.
Elaine Clabeaux, Chair/Parks and Recreation Commission, 12357 Saraglen Drive,
stated that the PRC does recommend accepting staff's recommendation # 2, to
waive the payment of Use Fee for AYSO for one year in consideration of
donations made to the Saratoga youth Fund, but in regards to staff's
recommendation #3, it did not come before the PRC. Chair Clabeaux stated that
since the PRC did not review the terms of the agreement they cannot take a
position on this recommendation.
Councilmember Waltonsmith noted that she would like the PRC to have the
5 April 17, 2002
opportunity to review all of staff's recommendations before Council approval.
Councilmember Mehaffey noted he could support the prepayment but is concerned
about the maintenance fee of $12,000 and the fact that the PRC did not have a
chance to discuss the recommendations.
Mayor Streit and Councilmember Bogosian noted they were willing to approve the
AYSO agreement as is.
STREIT/BOGOSIANMQVED TO APPROVE AYSO USER AGREEMENT.
MOTION FAILED ?.-2-0-1 WITH BAKER AND WALTONSMITH OPPOSING
AND MEHAFFEY ABSTAINING.
This item will be returned to the Parks and Recreation Commission for discussion.
2J. LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT -
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF ENGINEER'S REPORT AND
ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF INTENTION FOR FY 2002/03
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt resolutions.
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 02-025
RESOLUTION OF PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF ENGINEER'S
REPORT CITY OF SARATOGA LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT LLA-1 FY 2002-2003
TITLE OF RESOLUTION: 02-026
RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO ORDER THE LEVY AND
COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS PURSUANT TO THE LANDSCAPING
AND LIGHTING ACT OF 1972 CITY OF SARATOGA LANDSCAPING
AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT LLA-1 FY 2002-2003
BAKER/BOGOSIAN MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION OF
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL OF ENGINEER'S REPORT CITY OF
SARATOGA LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
LLA-1 FY 2002-2003. MOTION PASSES 5-0.
BAKERBOGOSIAN MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION OF INTENTION
TO ORDER THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS
PURSUANT TO THE LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ACT OF 1972
CITY OF SARATOGA LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT LLA-1 FY 2002-2003. MOTION PASSED 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
6 April 17, 2002
OLD BUSINESS
PUBLIC SAFETX CENTER- CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Dave Anderson, City Manager, presented staff report.
City Manager Anderson reported that the City has been working with stakeholders
to develop new Public Safety Center at the corner of Highway 9 and Saratoga
Avenue. The Public Safety Center would include a new fire station and a new
Westside Substation for the Sheriff's Office.
City Manager Anderson briefly reminded the City Council that the Ad Hoc
committee was formed consisting of various stakeholders. The Committee was
charged with exploring conceptual design options for a Public Safety Center. The
City hired ATI Architects and Engineers to facilitate the conceptual design
process. The Committee developed conceptual plans containing three basic
options:
1. Includes the three existing agencies on the site; Sheriff, Fire and Post
Office without using additional parking at the Federated Church
2. Includes all three agencies and utilizes additional parking from the adjacent
Federated Church
3. Includes only the agencies, with the Post office or Sheriff's Office moving
from the site.
City Manager Anderson noted that the 50% conceptual design milestone was
presented to Council on March 6, 2002. At that time City Council directed the Ad
Hoc Committee to further investigate 1) Option 3-3 which oriented the fire station
on Saratoga Avenue with the front setback large enough to accommodate fire
apparatus backing into the station without utilizing the Saratoga Avenue, keeping
the post office in its existing location; 2) and an option placing a new fire station
facing Highway 9 featuring a drive-thru capability.
Since March 6, 2002, City Manager Anderson noted that the AdHoc Committee
has been refining the two models per Council's direction. They are represented by
conceptual schemes "A" and "D".
City Manager Anderson noted that the City hired Keith Higgins &Associates to
perform a traffic analysis on each model. His analysis details the benefits and
problems inherit in each design based upon the traffic related criteria agreed to by
the AdHoc Committee.
Frances Chan, Architect/ATI Architects and Engineers, described Scheme A & D:
Scheme A
• Back in Fire Station-located on Saratoga Avenue
• 4,000 sq. ft. of additional Fire District support space located at the
Contempo building including room for fire fighter training and storage
• Contempo will need some seismic upgrade/remodeling to house temporary
Fire Station during construction
'7 April 17, 2002
• Egress at Oak Street intersection will be developed by modifying existing
parking located at the south portion of the Contempo Building
• 69 parking spaces provided
• $4,950,000
Scheme D
• Drive-thru fire station located on Saratoga-Los Gatos Road with adequate
front apron to facilitate off-street parking back in movements
• New design for larger fire station at 14,000 sq ft. required which will
incorporate training facility and storage requirements
• Existing fire station will remain in operation during construction of new
facility
• 73 parking spaces provided
• $5,688,000
Mr. Chen noted that although neither plan has full support they both address issues
and concerns of the AdHoc Committee and both have merit.
Curtis Jewel, Postmaster/LTSPS, noted that he supported Scheme D for parking and
safety purposes.
Ernie Kraule, Chief/Saratoga Fire District, 14380 Saratoga Avenue, thanked the
City Manager and the AdHoc committee for all of their time and effort.
Mary McGrath/RRM Design group, 3765 S. Higuera, San Luis Obispo, presented
Saratoga Fire Districts recommendations.
Scheme A -
• Meets 25' front and side setback on Highway 9
• Does Requires setback variance at rear
• Meets height limitation of 30'
• Meets density requirement of the City
• Expanded footprint allows staggered mass
• Public plaza at corner ofSaratoga-Los Gatos Rd and Big basin Road for
gatherings with area for public art/fountain or other features
• Allows widening of both Highway 9 and Saratoga Avenue
• Allows back in maneuvers to occur without pulling into pedestrian walk or
auto traffic
• Provides the best response scenario for the Fire Station with the right hand
turn to the busiest direction
• Allows response to west direction directly through the intersection
• Provides adequate parking-66 required/69 provided
• One-way entry at Saratoga-Los Gatos Road
• One way exit at Saratoga -Los Gatos Road
• Long dead end parking isle
• Projected $5.2 million
• Projected $4.8 million cost without major reconfiguration of parking
Scheme D -
• Drive thru bay
Apri117,2002
• Larger front and back apron combined with parking driveway to create
200 feet of drive apron
• Meets front setbacks
• Meets height limit
• Monolithic mass to maximize parking
• Sound impact to Church and residential neighbors
• Steeply sloped parking at the corner
• Building finished floor 10' above corner
• Parking lot at the corner ofSaratoga-Sunnyvale Road and Big Basin
Road
• Requires Caltrans to install a signal at Oak Street
• Increased possibility of travel thru Park place
• Requires the public to pass through the working yard of the Fire Station
to access Highway 9
• Provides single drive thru bay without stacking
• Allows for improved ease of operation for only one frontline vehicle
• Requires back in or moving a vehicle to accommodate other first
response vehicles
• Response time delayed due to travel required thru Saratoga-Los Gatos
intersection
• Allows for widening of Saratoga Avenue and Highway 9
• Adequate parking for fire station and post office-66 required/77
provided
• Projected $6.12 million -increased cost due to increased building
footprint, increased site costs, removing Contempo
• Property exchange with post office required
Ms. McGrath explained the pros and cons of both schemes:
Scheme APros -
• Meets City criteria for bulk, mass, scale, most setbacks, height and density
• Creates public space
• Addresses all traffic concerns and increases ease of operations for Fire
Department
• Most affordable
• Avoids complex land swaps with post office, only requires parking
access/agreement
Scheme ACons -
• No drive thru
• Costs are above current bond funds available
• Requires property negotiation between City and District
• Requires off-site improvements that are not currently funded
Scheme DPros -
• With adjusted footprint, allows for drive thru of two front line fire
apparatus
• Setback, height and coverage goals
• Allows for widening of both Highway 9 and Saratoga Avenue
• Allows adequate apron for back-in without pulling into Highway 9 traffic
9 April 17, 2002
• Meets parking criteria
Scheme DCons -
• Facility provides an imposing elevation to the corner with the roof peak
40" above Saratoga Avenue
• Places parking lot in most visible location
• Eliminates public plaza
• Requires major response load to travel busy intersection with potential
delays due to traffic congestions
• One drive thru bay for three front line vehicle minimally increases safety
and efficiency
• Least affordable
• Requires land swap with Post Office and City
Ms. McGrath noted that the Saratoga Fire District prefers Scheme A.
Gordon Duncan, Assistant Fire Chief/ 5FD, 14380 Saratoga Avenue, noted that
the SFD are not good neighbors on how they enter the street and both schemes
would correct some of the problems. Assistant Chief Duncan noted that he has 25
years of experience in Fire Safety. Referring to Higgins & Associates traffic
report Assistant Chief Duncan stated that 77% of drivers headed north on
Saratoga-Los Gatos Road are speeding, 52% of drivers headed south are speeding,
and 2% of drivers both direction on Saratoga Avenue are speeding. Assistant Fire
Chief Duncan discussed the need for four bays or three bays and stated that they
only need three.
Dennis Bacon, Captain/SCC Sheriff's Deparhnent, 14374 Saratoga Avenue,
explained that Sheriff Lori Smith apologizes that she could not attend tonight's
meeting. Captain Bacon expressed his gratitude to all of the AdHoc Committee
members. Captain Bacon noted that from the beginning the goal of the group was
the pursuit of the best interest of safety for the citizens of Saratoga. Captain Bacon
noted that the West Valley Substation, in its current location, is centrally located in
the community. If the station were to be moved they would not be as responsive to
the community as they have been for the past 16 years and they would risk losing
the momentum of communication they have gained throughout the community.
Captain Bacon noted that they would like to stay in Saratoga.
David Dolloff, Chair/ Saratoga F.A.C.T. Committee, 20385 Sigal Avenue, thanked
the Council and ATI for a job well done in the face of tremendous adversity. Mr.
Dolloff noted the design process that the AdHoc Committee participated in was a
flowed process design to best meet the traffic and parking considerations needed
for the Post Office, Sheriff's Department, Federated Church and the Village Green
Neighborhood. Three points are irrefutable in both designs 1) Fire fighter safety is
vastly improved by not using Saratoga Avenue as parking and a maintenance lot
2) The intersection of Saratoga Avenue and Highway 9 would be upgraded with
new right hand turn lanes 3) Both Schemes A and D require the use all of the
Contempo property to meet parking, flow, or building considerations. Mr. Dolloff
noted that Scheme D is the only plan that meets the F.A.C.T .Committee's
criterion for site locations.
10 April 17, 2002
Meg Caldwell, Co-President/Village Green Neighborhood Association, 20201 La
Paloma Avenue, noted that the Village Green HOA represents 93 homes located
on Oak Place, Park Place, Orchard Avenue, La Paloma, Spaich Court and Lutheria
Way. Mrs. Caldwell Noted that it is their hope that all parties involved in the
proposed Public Safety Center address the traffic safety, parking problems, and
design concerns of the Village Green Neighborhood. Mrs. Caldwell discussed the
cut-through traffic in her neighborhood. Mrs. Caldwell noted that the Village
Green Neighborhood supports ATI's recommendation of the following design
features:
• Installation of a median strip along Highway 9(near Oak Place and Oak
Street)
Installation of a signal at Oak Street and Highway 9
• Ingress and Egress to and from the triangular block onto Highway 9 and
Saratoga Avenue via the alley
Mrs. Caldwell stated the City should force the Fire District to meet the following
requirements:
• Eliminate cut-through traffic through the Village Green Neighborhood
• Prohibit use of the Village Green Neighborhood as a parking lot
• Preserve the historic integrity of the neighborhood
Councilmember Waltonsmith asked if the Village Green Neighborhood
Association taken a stand on which scheme they support.
Ms. Caldwell responded no they have not taken a stand as a group on which
scheme to support, but they hope they have been clear on what they expect.
Brian Styslinger, 20375 Park Avenue, noted he supports Scheme D.
Don Whetstone, 14768 Vickery Avenue, noted that he hoped that this process
would have turned out different; with a design that allowed the Sheriff's
Deparhnent to remain in the Village. Mr. Whetstone described some of the
advantages of design Scheme D over SFD's design Scheme A:
• Impairment of post office operation - Scheme D provides improved access
for customers and allows safe pedestrian access to the Post Office from the
Village.
• Proximity of station apron/driveway to intersection -All three traffic
experts agree that a fire station on the corner was and still is a bad idea.
• Temporary station - Scheme D will allow SFD operations to continue
normally in their present facility until the new station is completed.
• Reduction of emergency vehicle traffic on Park Place and Oak Place
• Drive-thru, 4-bay station
• Intensity of land use
• Pedestrian safety
• Extreme complexity in building shape
Mr. Whetstone noted that SFD made a presentation opposing Scheme D to the
Public Safety Commission meeting on April 11, 2002. Mr. Whetstone described
Chief Kraule's opposition to Scheme D:
11 April 17, 2002
• EIR requirement
• Appearance of corner
• Effects on neighbors
• Prediction of vehicles crashing into fire engines
• Effect of fire station location on response time
Mr. Whetstone noted that the Professional Fire Fighters Union recommends drive-
thru stations.
Arvin Engelson/Federated Church, 20381 Sea Gull Way, noted that there are
significant benefits driving from both schemes. Mr. Engleson noted that the
AdHoc Committee has gone as far as it possibly can, but there are still a lot of
unresolved opportunities. Mr. Engelson noted that a landscaping plan has never
been mentioned in any of the AdHoc meetings. Mr. Engelson noted that the
Federated Church supports Scheme A.
Wade Meyercourt, Foundation President/Federated Church, 16187 Greenwood
Avenue, noted that there is not enough room on the site to accommodate all
occupants. Mr. Meyercourt noted that for the past 80 years the Federated Church
has been constantly improving their site. Mr. Meyercourt noted that if the Sheriff s
Department is relocated either scheme could be approved, but the Church favors
Scheme A.
Jerry Bruce, Treasure/Federated Church, 14320 Saratoga Avenue, discussed the
fact that neither scheme provides enough parking for all of the agencies at the site.
Rob Slump, Chair/Saratoga Federated Church, 15961 Qnail Hill Road, noted that
Scheme D is not esthetically pleasing. Mr. Slump noted that the Federated Church
has been a good neighbor for the past 80 years. Mr. Slump noted that Scheme A
better serves the community. Mr. Slump noted that in Scheme D the entrance to
the Village would look like a park and ride lot.
Mayor Streit requested a ten minutes break at 10:00 p.m.
Mayor Streit reconvened the meeting at 10:10 p.m.
Mayor Streit requested that Items 4,5,6,7 be continued to the next City Council
meeting on Apri123, 2002.
Councilmember Mehaffey and Councilmember Bogosian noted that they would be
absent on Apri123, 2002.
Consensus of the City Council to continue items 4,5,6,7 to Apri123, 2002.
Bill Morrison, President/SaratogaFfrefighter Association Local 3875, noted on
March 21, 2002 the Council received a letter from the SFD that stated the Union is
opposed to a new fire station at this location. Mr. Morrison stated that the
firefighters are not opposed to a new station at any site as long as the following
conditions are met:
12 Apri117,2002
1. Install a controlled signal light at Oak Street and Oak Place where the
firefighters would have control over the light
2. Build a large enough apron on the front and back of the fire station
Mr. Momson stated that the firefighters support a four bay configuration and
strongly support a drive thru fire station, eventually would be necessary.
Ben Bubin, 16880 Bohhnan Road, noted his personal preference is Scheme A and
suggested the process be expedited so this station can be built.
Margarite Chapman, 21221 Canyon View Drive, noted that her concern is the
response time from the two proposed fire stations.
Willys Peck, 14275 Saratoga Avenue, noted that he was Heritage Preservation
Commissioner and although the Commission has not taken an official stand on
either one of the schemes he is sure that the Commissioners would all agree that a
parking lot at the entrance of the Village would be of some concern to them.
Marlene Duffin, 212 Canyon View Drive, noted that she has been a resident of
Saratoga for 34 years. Ms. Duffin noted that she was present tonight representing
herself as a private citizen and also a member of the Foothill Club. Ms. Duffin
noted that she supports Scheme A.
Mary Grant, President/Saratoga Foothill Club, 20211 Pierce Road, stated that the
Foothill Club supports Scheme A. Ms. Grant noted that Scheme D would create
too much of an impact on the Foothill Club.
Fred Drinkwater, 21250 Canyon View Drive, noted that Scheme A provides the
faster response time for medical emergencies. Mr. Drinkwater noted that he
opposes Scheme D.
Stephen Campbell, 14482 Oak Place, noted that he is a longtime Saratoga resident,
Federated Church member, and Village Green homeowner. Mr. Campbell stated
that he supports Scheme A.
Rita McCarty, 19235 Harleigh Drive, noted that she was representing the Foothill
Club and noted that she supports Scheme A.
Anita Schiller/read a letter on behalf of Denise Michel, 20375 Park Place. Ms.
Schiller noted that Ms. Michel is the Co-President of the Village Green
Neighborhood Association. Ms. Schiller stated that Ms. Michel suggested that the
Council only approve a design that 1) insures the safety ofresidents in the Village
Green Neighborhood by preventing cut thru traffic 2) prevent this neighborhood
from being used as a parking lot 3) preserves the historic integrity of their
neighborhood.
Holly Davis, 14478 Oak Place, noted that she has lived on Oak Place for 25 years.
Ms. Davies noted that the Fire Station is currently located in the perfect spot in
town. Ms. Davies stated that she supports Scheme A.
13 April 17, 2002
Fran Andresen, 19952 Garnett Court, noted that he is a Public Safety
Commissioner and a member of the Ad Hoc Committee. Mr. Andresen noted that
it is extremely important to keep the Sheriff's Department in Saratoga.
Vic Monia, Granite Way, noted that he really does not support either scheme, but
if he had to choose one, it would be Scheme A. Mr. Monia stated that it has been
the Fire District who has delayed this project not the City; the District chose not to
follow the City's code. Mr. Monia asked why the SFD has not considered other
locations in the City.
Hal Toppel, Attorney/SFD, 660 West Dana Street, Mountain View, asked the
Council to consider Scheme A. Mr. Toppel stated that in order to consider
Scheme D property would have to be acquired from the Post Office, which the
Post Office has never been willing to sell.
Phil Steward, 20345 Orchard Road, noted that he has been a resident there since
1972. Mr. Stewart stated that he supports Scheme A for the following reasons:
• It was preferred by the Fire District
• Esthetically more pleasing
• Response time would be better
Brian Styslinger, 320375 Park Place, noted that he supported Scheme D. Mr.
Styslinger stated that he opposes Scheme A because he feels the station on the
corner of Saratoga Ave and Highway 9 has caused most of the traffic and safety
problems in the village Green Neighborhood. Mr. Styslinger noted that he does
not feel that Scheme D would increase response time.
Kevin Schott, 19036 Saratoga Glen Place, described a recent accident that
happened on April 12, 2002 on Saratoga Avenue because of backing in the fire
trucks on Saratoga Avenue. Mr. Schott requested that the City consider uniting the
two-fire district, which would eliminate the need to duplicate services.
Ed Ferrel, 20877 Kittridge Road, reiterated the main objectives for the AdHoc
Committee and noted that everyone has lost in this process except for the
attorneys.
Bev Phipps, 15270 Norton Road, congratulated the Council on the tremendous
public support and participation on this project. Mr. Phipps noted that he supports
Scheme D.
Mayor Streit asked Ms. McGrath if it was feasible to add a 4th mini bay for an
ambulance in Scheme A.
Ms. McGrath stated it probably is feasible.
Mayor Streit asked Chief Kraule if he could prevent his employees from parking in
the Village Green Neighborhood.
14 Apri117,2002
Chief Kraule stated that preventing parking in the neighborhood would take some
internal enforcement and he has begun discussing the problem with a few
employees who have been parking there.
Mayor Streit stated that he sees this in two separate issues 1) neighborhood issues
2) public safety issues. Mayor Streit noted he supports a traffic light at Oak Street
and a median on Saratoga-Los Gatos Road to help decrease the traffic in the
Village Green Neighborhood
Councilmember Bogosai noted that the process in designing this fire station has
become a political one. Councilmember Bogosian stated that he attended many of
the Ad Hoc meetings as a Saratoga Fire District resident. Councilmember
Bogosian stated that Scheme A is a better plan then what was presented by the
SFD last year. Councilmember Bogosian stated that Scheme A includes a large
apron that allows the engines to turn safely, new turn lanes and improved visibility
on Saratoga Avenue and Highway 9. Councilmember Bogosian stated that the
Memorial Arch should be relocated to Blaney Plaza and the SFD should cease the
litigation immediately. Councilmember Bogosian requested that the Planning
Department and the Planning Commission fast track this current design.
Councilmember Bogosian stated with consensus of his colleagues he would like to
direct staff to implement traffic safety measures in the Village Green
Neighborhood. Councihnember Bogosian stated that the Council should find a
way to relocate the Sheriff's Department in Saratoga. Councilmember Bogosian
suggested that the Federated Church allow the Sheriff s Department to use their
parking lot at least until the end of the year. On a final note Councilmember
Bogosian thanked Mayor Streit and City Manager Anderson for all their time and
effort they put into the AdHoc Committee.
Vice Mayor Baker stated that the City of Saratoga will never get a Public Safety
Center on the corner of Saratoga Avenue and Highway 9 because the Post Office
will never sell their property. Vice Mayor Baker stated he supports relocating the
Sheriff s Department somewhere in Saratoga. Vice Mayor Baker stated that no
matter what scheme is built he would not tolerate the use of the Village Green
Neighborhood as a parking lot or as a cut thru.
Councilmember Mehaffey stated that he supports a light at Oak Street.
Councilmember Mehaffey stated that he prefers Scheme D. Councilmember
Mehaffey stated he feels the process the process everyone has participated in has
worked.
Councilmember Waltonsmith noted that she really hoped that the City would get a
real Public Safety Center. Unfortunately, Councilmember Waltonsmith noted that
the discussions came down to the essentials and what was best for all of the
stakeholders and the community at large. Councilmember Waltonsmith pointed
out that both Scheme A & D both need to find more parking spaces.
Councilmember Waltonsmith stated that the City is suppose to give the SFD
16,000 square feet of land and asked what is the City getting back.
15 Apri117,2002
Councilmember Waltonsmith noted she supports Scheme D but is willing to accept
Scheme A.
Mayor Streit noted that he has been involved in the AdHoc Committee from the
beginning and is disappointed that a full Public Safety Center is not being built.
Mayor Streit noted that part of the reason was lack of funds and the site is not big
enough for all three of the agencies to stay. Mayor Streit stated that the City is
committed to finding a new location for the Sheriff's Department. Mayor Streit
stated that esthetically Scheme A is better. Mayor Streit noted that he concurred
with Councilmember Waltonsmith that the City should get something back from
the SFD in return for the 16,000 square feet of land.
Consensus of the City Council to work with the Saratoga Fire District to develop
Scheme A.
4. REPORT ON STRATEGIES TO REDUCE CREEK CONTAMINATION
INCLUDING DRAFT ORDINANCE REMOVING BELOW GRADE
EXEMPTION FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff to schedule introduction and first reading of septic
abatement ordinance amendment following a public hearing; provide direction to
staff regarding establishing of sewer lateral inspection requirements.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to the Adjourned Meeting on
Apri123, 2002.
UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD TRIAL UPDATE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to the Adjourned Meeting on
Apri123, 2002.
6. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AGREEMENT OPTIONS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to the Adjourned Meeting on
Apri123, 2002.
16 April 17, 2002
NEW BUSINESS
AWARD OF CONTRACT TO ABATE A PUBLIC NUISANCE AT 12623
QUITO ROAD
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt resolution; award bid; and authorize execution of contract.
Consensus of the City Council to continue this item to the Adjourned Meeting
on Apri123, 2002.
COMMISSION ASSIGNMENT REPORTS
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Councilmember Bogosian requested that the disposition of the Oak trees at the Heritage
Orchard be brought back for Council discussion.
Vice Mayor Baker stated he would support Councilmember Bogosian's request.
Referring to a letter Council received from Mr. Jack Mallory, Vice Mayor Baker
requested a status report on the disposition of the wall located at 12240-12250 Saratoga-
Sunnyvale Road.
OTHER
City Attorney Taylor stated that he would not be at the May 1, 2002 City Council
meeting; Attorney Witter would be attending. City Attorney Taylor noted that he was
going to the League of California Cities Attorney Conference.
CITY MANAGER'S RF,PORT
None
ADJOURNMENT
There be no further business Mayor Streit adjourned the meeting at 11:50 p.m.
17
April 17, 2002