HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-20-2007 City Council MinutesMINUTES
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 20, 2007
The City council of the City of Saratoga met in Closed Session in the Administrative
Conference Room at 5:30pm
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
Conference With Legal Counsel- Existing Litigation (Subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9)
Name of case: Christiano v. City of Saratoga. Santa Clara County Superior Court
106CV- 072297.
Conference With Legal Counsel- Existing Litigation (Subdivision (a) of Section 54956.9)
Name of case: Giberson v. City of Saratoga (real parties Byrd, Oak Creek
Partners LLC and Maston) Santa Clara County Superior Court
Conference With Labor Negotiators (Gov't Code 54957.6):
Agency designated representatives: Barbara Powell, Assistant City Manager, and
Monica LaBossiere, Human Resources Manager.
Employee organization: SEA
Conference With Labor Negotiators (Gov't Code 54957.6):
Agency designated representative: Dave Anderson, City Manager
Employee organization: SMO
Conference With Labor Negotiators (Gov't Code 54957.6):
Agency designated representative: Barbara Powell, Assistant City Manager and
Monica LaBossiere, Human Resources Manager
Employee organization: Millmen Industrial Carpenters Local 262
MAYOR'S REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Kao stated there was no reportable information.
Mayor Kao called the Regular City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and led the
Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
PRESENT: Councilmembers Jill Hunter, Kathleen King, Chuck Page, Vice
Mayor Ann Waltonsmith and Mayor Kao.
ABSENT: None
ALSO Dave Anderson, City Manager
PRESENT Richard Taylor, City Attorney
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk
Barbara Powell, Assistant City Manager
John Cherbone, Public Works Director
John Livingstone, Community Development Director
Mary Furey, Administrative Services Director
Michael Taylor, Recreation Director
Macedonio Nunez, Assistant Engineer
REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OF AGENDA
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk, reported that Pursuant to Gov't. Code 54954.2, the agenda
for this meeting was properly posted on June 14, 2007.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Citizen Ray addressed the Council regarding the sale of a portion of Vasona Park.
Cathleen Casey addressed the Council regarding the review of the General Plan at the
previous City Council meeting. She voiced several complaints about the City Council
meeting, the General Plan and the process for both. Ms. Casey thought there were several
items that were left off the General Plan. In addition, she suggested a referendum to allow
more citizen involvement and suggested the General Plan be discussed at a more
reasonable time during the Council meetings so that more citizens can attend. She also
suggested that the Village historic area needs to have boundaries drawn and that the arson
prevention ordinances need attention.
Willys Peck addressed the Council regarding Saratoga's Historical Landmark status
#435, which was designated in the 1950's prior to the incorporation of the City. He
also requested that the General Plan be amended to include a defined histonc district that
would include the facilities that made Saratoga a landmark.
Jim Stallman addressed the Council announcing June 30 was the date that the VTA will
reduce bus lines within Saratoga from 4 to 3 and noted that one of the buses being cut is
the one going to CalTrain. He noted that Saratoga residents are paying a one cent sales
tax to pay for the bus service and requested that Council become involved.
COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith asked that staff be aware of what Citizen Ray noted regarding
the Town of Los Gatos. She also asked if we were deficient on fire ordinances and asked
that it be looked into. She suggested that the Saratoga Village boundary issue be taken
back to the Heritage Preservation Commission for review.
Councilmember King suggested that each Councilmember provide feedback to Dolly
Sandoval, the VTA representative from Cupertino and if citizens want to get involved,
they should also contact Dolly.
COMMUNICATIONS FROM COMMISSIONS
Saratoga Traffic Safety Commissioner Brigitte Ballingall addressed the Council
regarding the Joint Meeting with Council prior to the Regular Meeting. She noted that
there has been a significant increase in neighborhood traffic and that neighborhoods are
experiencing frequent and excessive speeding. She suggested an education campaign and
a greater use of radar feedback to deter speeding. She also requested funding from the
Council Contingency Fund to add more signs. Ms. Ballingall also announced that there is
an opening on the Commission and she encouraged anyone with an interest to contact the
City Clerk.
Councilmember Hunter asked if there were patterns of behavior that Ms. Ballingall could
cite as being more problematic than others.
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Ms. Ballingall noted that speeding in 25 mph residential zones was the main issue. She
also noted that schools should be more accessible via sidewalks and protected bike lanes
to encourage walking and riding bikes.
Councilmember King asked if staff could look into the utilization of Council
Contingency Funds for traffic signage in neighborhoods.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith announced that Council meetings are now "green" and that
Council members are using laptops instead of paper to view the agenda; KSAR Channel
15 has a new program, "Spotlight on Saratoga" viewable Mondays and Fridays at 7:30pm
and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:00A.M.; and Hakone Gardens has a moon viewing on
September 21.
Councilmember Chuck Page announced that Azule Park is hosting a July 4th event, a
Special Board meeting will be held at the Monte Sereno City Council chambers, 1804
Saratoga/Los Gatos Road, Thursday evening at 5:OOpm to discuss the new garbage
collection service, and noted the topic will specifically address the "hard to service"
areas. The website, www.westvalleyrecycles.com, is available for more information.
Councilmember King suggested notifying the Mercury Newspaper and the Saratoga
News about the City of Saratoga being one of the first cities to go with the "paperless
agenda" for council meetings and suggested that staff keep track of how much paper is
being saved by the paperless agenda and packet.
Councilmember Hunter announced that the Village shops have published a directory; a
dance will be held on July 14 and July 28 in the Bank of America parking lot; and the
Saratoga Historical Museum is opening a garden exhibit, which has patented historic
plants some of which are now popularized around the world.
Mayor Kao thanked staff for helping Council to go green by implementing the paperless
agendas and packet material.
CEREMONIAL ITEMS
1. APPOINTMENT OF YOUTH COMMISSIONER AND OATH OF OFFICE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the attached resolution appointing one member to the Youth Commission
and direct the City Clerk to administer the Oath of Office.
RESOLUTION 07 -039
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION
APPOINTING ONE MEMBER TO THE YOUTH COMMISSION AND
DIRECT THE CITY CLERK TO ADMINISTER THE OATH OF OFFICE.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
2. PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE MONTH OF JULY 2007 AS "PARKS
AND RECREATION MONTH"
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Present proclamation.
Mayor Kao read and presented the proclamation to Interim Recreation Director
Michael Taylor.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
3. CARDEA CENTER FOR WOMEN
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Informational only.
Lata Patin, President, and Lois Fiedler, made a short presentation about the Cardea
Center for Women and announced their new website for networking, skills training
and information on how to become involved in government. Ms. Fiedler described
their program, which encompasses micro enterprise, mentoring, leadership and
awareness of national women's concerns. Their plan is to have a physical center at
some point.
Councilmember King suggested they contact the Saratoga Rotary, which might
provide a small grant.
4. CERT PRESENTATION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Informational only.
Jim Yoke, Emergency Services Coordinator, presented the Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT), a program the City is undertaking. It is a nationwide
program started in 1985 to help cities prepare for disasters. The program in
Saratoga started last autumn and involves cooperation between cities, State and
Federal agencies, and local partnerships with school districts.
The long range plan is made up of small teams throughout the City's
neighborhoods, reacting to needs, providing communications, and sharing
resources. A successful training Academy was completed with the neighborhood
teams. The next CERT Academy will be July 12 through August 18, 6:OOpm to
10:OOpm Thursdays and 9:OOam to 1:OOam Saturdays at the Saratoga Community
Center. Sign up through the Recreation Department.
Dave Anderson applauded the Saratoga Fire Department who hired Jim Yoke for
the position and stated that State and Federal funding allows CERT to purchase
needed emergency supplies for the program.
Councilmember King asked what age group would be accepted in the program.
Mr. Yoke responded that High School age would be the youngest.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
5. REVIEW OF ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND PAYROLL CHECK
REGISTERS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the Check Registers for the following Accounts Payable payment cycle:
June 7, 2007.
Kathleen Casey requested to remove this item for discussion.
Ms. Casey asked that the check register expenditures be published at the library for
public viewing and asked if city funds were used for the City's 50 Anniversary
event.
Councilmember King noted that since September 6, every document the Council
receives is now available on the Internet via the City's website, which is accessible
in the library.
Councilmembers King, Page and City Manager Dave Anderson clarified that no
City funds were spent on the 50 Anniversary event.
WALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO ACCEPT THE CHECK REGISTER
FOR THE FOLLOWING ACCOUNTS PAYABLE CYCLE: JUNE 7, 2007.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
6. TREASURER'S REPORT FOR APRIL 2007
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept Treasurer's Report
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO ACCEPT THE TREASURER'S
REPORT FOR APRIL 2007. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0
7. 2007/08 ANNUAL INVESTMENT POLICY
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve 2007 /08 Annual Investment Policy
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO APPROVE THE 2007/08 ANNUAL
INVESTMENT POLICY. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0
8. UPDATED LAIF RESOLUTION
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Updated LAIF Resolution
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RESOLUTION NO. 07 -036
WALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO APPROVE THE UPDATED LAIF
RESOLUTION. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0
9. 2006 CONCRETE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT PROGRAM
CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Change Order to Contract
RESOLUTION NO. 07 -041
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO APPROVE THE CHANGE ORDER
TO THE 2006 CONCRETE REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT PROGRAM
CONTRACT. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0
10. EXTENSION OF CONTRACT FOR STREET SWEEPING SERVICES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
1. Move to extend Street Sweeping Contract to Universal Sweeping Services from
July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008 n the amount of $95,000.00
2. Move to increase the rate of compensation of curb miles by 3.2% from $22.21
to $22.94 per curb mile.
Councilmember Hunter removed this item for clarification.
Councilmember Hunter inquired about Third Street cleaning.
Public Works Director Cherbone responded that Third Street is part of the
residential area and not cleaned in the same manner that Big Basin Way is cleaned
Director Cherbone added that he has a contingency fund to add sweeping of Third
Street. Cherbone also clarified that the report contained an error and that the
actual cost is 2 cents less per mile at $22.92, rather than $22.94 per curb mile. He
noted that the frequency of sweeping in the Village is four times per month; all
other streets are monthly.
PAGE/HUNTER MOVED TO APPROVE EXTENSION OF CONTRACT
FOR STREET SWEEPING SERVICES. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
11. 2006 ANNUAL CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT EXTENSION OF
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO BUILD RETAINING WALL AT
WEST VALLEY COLLEGE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Change Order
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO APPROVE THE CHANGE ORDER
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TO THE 2006 ANNUAL CONCRETE REPAIR PROJECT
CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0
12. APPROVAL OF INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT FOR
METROPOLITAN PLANNING GROUP
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Agreement.
Kathleen Casey requested that this item be pulled from the Consent Calendar and
requested clarification regarding the function of this group and if they were
contracted to work on the General Plan.
Community Development Director Livingstone clarified that Community
Development has budgeted for a contract planner for the last three years to handle
project overflow on regular planning projects and to cover staff vacancies when
there is turnover in the department. Metropolitan Planning Group was not
involved in the General Plan update process.
KING /WALTONSMITH MOVED TO APPROVE INDEPENDENT
CONTRACTOR AGREEMENT FOR METROPOLITAN PLANNING
GROUP. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
13. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE
CORRECTION TO SECTION 15- 29.010 (b) OF THE SARATOGA CITY
CODE RELATING TO HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS FOR FENCES AND
WALLS IN SETBACK AREAS.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Grant the Second Reading and adopt the ordinance approving the correction to
Section 15- 29.010(b) of the Saratoga City Code relating to height restrictions for
fences and walls in setback areas.
Kathleen Casey addressed the Council questioning the use of Council time in
affecting this change.
Councilmember Page clarified that this merely is a phrasing change to clarify that
the current height restriction is also in effect for setback areas.
KING /PAGE MOVED TO GRANT THE SECOND READING AND ADOPT
THE ORDINANCE APPROVING THE CORRECTION TO SECTION 15-
29.010(b) OF THE SARATOGA CITY CODE RELATING TO HEIGHT
RESTRICTIONS FOR FENCES AND WALLS IN SETBACK AREAS.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
14. AGENCY AGREEMENT FOR COUNTYWIDE AB 939
IMPLEMENTATION FEE AND FOR COUNTYWIDE HOUSEHOLD
HAZARDOUS WASTE SERVICES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize City Manager to execute agreement for Countywide AB 939
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Implementation Fee and the First Amendment to the Agency Agreement for
Countywide Household Hazardous Waste Collection Programs.
Councilmember King removed this item for clarification.
Councilmember King noted her question for this item as already been clarified.
K1NG /WALTONSMITH MOVED TO ACCEPT COUNTYWIDE AB 939
IMPLEMENTATION FEE AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE
AGENCY AGREEMENT FOR COUNTYWIDE HOUSEHOLD
HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION PROGRAMS AND TO
AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SAME.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
15. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 04 -007,
ADDING A POLICY CONCERNING CITY SANCTION OF COMMUNITY
EVENTS TO COUNCIL POLICY ON NORMS OF OPERATIONS AND
RULES OF ORDER AND PROCEDURE.
STAFF RECOMMENTATION:
Adopt Resolution
Kathleen Casey addressed the Council with comments about what to include in the
policy.
RESOLUTION 07 -075
KING/PAGE MOVED TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION AMENDING
RESOLUTION 04 -007, ADDING A POLICY CONCERNING CITY
SANCTION OF COMMUNITY EVENTS TO COUNCIL POLICY ON
NORMS OF OPERATIONS AND RULES OF ORDER AND PROCEDURE.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
OLD BUSINESS
16. PLAQUES FOR HISTORICAL PROPERTIES.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Heritage Preservation Commission plaque design.
Community Development Director John Livingstone presented the staff report.
Background: On Council's acceptance of the idea of giving plaques to historic
building owners, Council had requested the Heritage Preservation Commission
(HPC) request that homeowners who have had their property declared histonc and
who accept the plaque, agree to display the plaque visibly on the outside of the
home and business owners with a historic property return their plaque for final
acceptance.
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Councilmember King asked that a plaque be passed around for acceptance.
Councilmember Page asked that the language concerning accepting and displaying
the plaque be clarified so homeowners know they are agreeing to permanently and
visibly display the plaque on the outside of their homes.
Councilmember King requested that there be a printed name next to the signature.
The HPC representative, Norm Koepernik addressed the Council, reiterating that
the building and homeowners who receive a plaque will place them in a visible
and permanent location. There will be a ceremony for receipt and installation of
the plaques and Council will be invited.
Councilmember Page asked if there would be written documentation of the historic
buildings. Norm responded that the buildings would be on the walking tour.
Kathleen Casey addressed the Council noting that there are many homes that
should have the plaque and that they should have the plaques installed quickly.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith noted that the plaques should go forward and an
additional list should be put together for additional buildings.
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO ACCEPT HERITAGE
PRESERVATION COMMISSION'S DESIGN OF THE PLAQUE FOR
HISTORIC PROPERTIES MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
17 RESPONSE TO SANTA CLARA COUNTY CIVIL GRAND JURY
REPORT ON NORTH CAMPUS SALE
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Review Response to Grand Jury Report and direct staff accordingly.
City Attorney Taylor provided a brief staff report noting that at the last Council
meeting Staff presented the Grand Jury Report, which required a response. The
Council provided direction to Staff regarding that response and a letter was
drafted agreeing with the findings of the Grand Jury and proposed implementation
suggestions.
Dr. Stutzman addressed the Council, and encouraged the Council to implement
the suggestions of the Civil Grand Jury and make it known to members of the
community.
Kathleen Casey addressed the Council in favor of implementing the suggestions
of the Grand Jury report.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith agreed that policies and procedures should be in place
to document large purchases and agreed with the Grand Jury report.
Councilmember Page was in agreement with documenting communications and
agreed to support the findings of the Grand Jury report.
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Mayor Kao asked Attorney Taylor for clarification regarding required
documentation for purchase greater than $2 million
Attorney Taylor noted that the wording did specify purchases over $2 million and
that wording could be changed to be inclusive of $2 million.
Councilmember Page noted that it should be incumbent upon staff to recognize
when a purchase required formal documentation.
WALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO APPROVE THE RESPONSE TO THE
SANTA CLARA COUNTY CIVIL GRAND JURY REPORT ON THE
NORTH CAMPUS SALE. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
18. ADOPTION OF FISCAL YEAR 2007 -08 PROPOSED OPERATING
BUDGET.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Approve Resolution approving the Proposed Operating Budget for FY 2007 -08.
Administrative Services Director Furey provided a brief staff report and
requested approval of the proposed budget.
Cathleen Casey addressed the Council requesting the budget be viewable at the
time of discussion.
Councilmember King suggested a small budget be included for consultants related
to the City's pursuit of its Tax Equity Allocation.
RESOLUTION 07 -040
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO APPROVE THE RESOLUTION
APPROVING THE OPERATING BUDGET FOR FY 2007/08. MOTION
PASSED 5 -0 -0.
19. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVANCE PLANNING PRIORITIES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Provide direction to staff on Advance Planning Priorities
Community Development Director Livingstone addressed the Council,
recommending the following Advance Planning priorities: the Housing Element,
Sign Ordinance and the Fence Ordinance He noted there are several additional
ordinances of interest to the Council that could be added: the Blighted Property
Ordinance; the Guidelines for Land Use near Streams; The News Rack
Ordinance; the Noticing Ordinance; and the Story Pole Ordinance.
Councilmember Page summarized his understanding of the process for an
ordinance.
Director Livingstone clarified that depending on who is involved in the writing of
the ordinance (e.g. a committee, staff, the community, etc.) could influence the
timeframe for completion.
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Councilmember Page asked if there were any of these additional ordinances that
might be close to being presented to Council.
Director Livingstone noted that the Fence, Story Pole, Noticing and News Rack
ordinances might be close to being ready for presentation to the Council.
Councilmember Hunter questioned the need for a new Sign Ordinance.
Director Livingstone responded that Legal Counsel suggested the Sign Ordinance
needs the most revision.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
Cathleen Casey addressed the Council and requested an Arson Ordinance be
developed, and agreed the Housing Element needed attention and requested that
contract planners not be utilized.
There being no other speakers, Mayor Kao closed public comment.
Council debated the issue at length.
KING/PAGE MOVED TO TAKE BLIGHT AND NEWS RACK
ORDINANCES TO PLANNING COMMISSION TO MOVE THEM
FORWARD. IF TOO COMPLICATED, THEY SHOULD BE BROUGHT
BACK TO THE COUNCIL FOR DIRECTION. FENCE AND SIGN
ORDINANCE WILL BE PREPARED BY STAFF AND SENT TO THE
PLANNING COMMISSION. ALL OTHER ITEMS WILL BE SECOND
TIER AND PREPARED AS TIME ALLOWS. HOUSING ELEMENT
WILL SIMULTANEOUSLY BE PREPARED BY AN OUTSIDE
CONTRACTOR. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
NEW BUSINESS
20. REQUEST TO THE CITY OF SARATOGA TO SUPPORT THE
REQUEST FROM THE SARATOGA MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION TO
ANNUALLY SPONSOR NEIGHBORHOOD BLOCK PARTIES
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Accept report and direct staff accordingly.
Cathleen Boyer, City Clerk, reported that Arvin Engelson had emailed the City
Clerk requesting that the City support the neighborhood block parties.
Arvin Engelson, on behalf of the Ministerial Association, representing 20
churches in Saratoga, requested that the Council annually support the
neighborhood block parties.
Councilmember King suggested that the Council support the block parties with
contingency monies.
KING /WALTONSMITH MOVED TO SUPPORT AND SPONSOR THE
EVENT AND DIRECT STAFF TO PLACE THE ITEM ON THE
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CONSENT CALENDAR FOR A FUTURE MEETING TO APPROVE
$2,500 FROM THE COUNCIL'S CONTINGENCY FUND. MOTION
PASSED 5 -0 -0.
21. APPEAL OF ENCROACHMENT PERMIT APPLICATION NO 07 -079,
WHICH WAS APPROVED BY THE CITY ENGINEER, ALLOWING
CONNECTION OF A PRIVATE DRIVEWAY TO WARDELL ROAD AT
20865 WARDELL ROAD.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Affirm issuance of the encroachment permit subject to any additional conditions
recommended by the City's Traffic Engineer.
Public Works Director Cherbone presented the staff report.
Director Cherbone noted the Applicant has applied for an Encroachment Permit
for their driveway to connect with Wardell Road. The appellant has multiple
issues; safety of the roadway as it connects with Wardell, runoff and trash
pickup issues, designation of Wardell, (cul -de -sac or dead end) and if the item
should be deferred. Traffic engineers feel some improvements could be made
to satisfy driveway issues.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
Jack Chevlen, attorney for homeowner Mr. Matt Christiano, addressed the
Council regarding the concerns the applicant has voiced and supports
continuing the item to a later meeting. He noted that the traffic engineer's report
was not received until Monday, June 18 which was only two days before the
June 20 council meeting for the appellant to review and respond. He requested
a continuance to be given time to present his case.
Bart Hechtman addressed the Council on behalf of the four families who
purchased the parcels. He requested that the continuance be denied. He
commented that they agree with all the safety conditions recommended by
Staff, which is 75 feet of visibility, a stop sign and safe merging onto Wardell
and felt that all conditions have been met.
Mr. Pang, Traffic and Engineering Consultant to Mr. Christiano, addressed the
Council. He provided a letter and a brief summary of his comments to Council.
He cited that the driveway used by Mr. Christiano connects with the proposed
driveway before it merges to Wardell and would conflict with vehicles on Mr.
Christiano's driveway.
Mr. Christiano addressed the council for rebuttal and requested a continuance.
Mr. Chevlen and Mr. Pang readdressed the Council for rebuttal to reiterate a
request for a continuance and disagreement with the City Traffic Engineer's
report.
Mr. Hechtman readdressed the Council to reiterate disagreement with the
continuance and the charges made by the appellant. He also briefly described
the conditions which determined the location of the driveway.
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Mayor Kao closed the public comment.
Councilmember King asked Staff member Nunez about the grading
discrepancy. Staff member Nunez clarified that a variance was provided by the
Fire Department as long as a rougher surface such as concrete was provided.
The variance was to enable a 17% grade as opposed to the standard 15% grade.
Council discussed the issues at length.
Councilmember Hunter suggested a continuance.
Councilmember Page suggested a continuance no later than July 18.
Councilmember Waltonsmith suggested a decision be made tonight.
HUNTER/KAO MOVED TO CONTINUE DISCUSSION AT THE JULY
18, 2007 COUNCILMEETING. MOTION FAILED 2 -3 -0 WITH
COUNCILMEMBERS PAGE, KING AND VICE MAYOR WALTONSMITH
OPPOSING.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
Kathleen Casey spoke in favor of the continuance.
Mr. Chevlen spoke in favor of the continuance.
Mr. Pang reiterated that in his opinion the driveway posed an unsafe condition.
Mr. Hechtman spoke against the driveway being unsafe.
Mr. Christiano reiterated his belief that the proposed driveway is unsafe.
Mr. Cheedle, one of the new homeowners, requested the proposal be approved.
Mayor Kao closed the public comments.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith and Councilmember King spoke in favor of denying
the appeal with suggested amendments by Council.
Councilmember Page spoke in favor of denying the appeal with the condition
that the stop sign be installed, and reiterated that the other issues of garbage and
run off have been addressed adequately.
Councilmember Hunter reiterated the issue of safety, suggested that the
neighbors work together to maintain a safe environment and spoke in favor of
denying the appeal.
Mayor Kao spoke in favor of denying appeal based on her opinion that all
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issues were adequately addressed.
RESOLUTION NO. 07 -035
WALTONSMITH /PAGE MOVED TO DENY APPEAL AND AFFIRM
THE CITY ENGINEER'S ENCROACHMENT PERMIT APPLICATION
07 -079 WITH THE ADDITION OF #IV, "NO ENCROACHMENT
PURSUANT TO THIS PERMIT SHALL BE VALID UNLESS THE
COMMON DRIVEWAY IS SUBJECT TO THE CALIFORNIA
VEHICLE CODE AND THE STOP SIGN REQUIRED BY THE PERMIT
IS IN PLACE MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
Mayor Kao declared a 5 minute break at 10:OOPM.
Major Kao reconvened at 10:05PM.
22. OPTIONS FOR ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Provide direction to staff.
Assistant City Manager, Barbara Powell presented the staff report about Climate
Change and current options being planning and implemented. These include:
The "West Valley GREEN LEAF Committee with a mission "to enlist
citizens of our communities as possible in participating in greenhouse gas
emission reductions, green business, building, and living practices, and
environmental sustainability through education, promotion, and
demonstration;
The Santa Clara County Cities Association's Joint Policy Collaborative
Committee, which is recommending a number of steps to pursue in
support of mitigating the effects of climate change;
A webpage for the City's website, highlighting priority Green Building
options residents can undertake dunng remodel and new construction.
The webpage will provide links to resources such as the San Mateo
Countywide "Sustainable Buildings Guide and
Joint Venture Silicon Valley Network's "Climate Protection Task Force"
with a charter statement "to develop effective, collaborative, solutions for
the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from public agency operations
by providing a neutral forum for city and county government agencies and
special districts to learn from each other and from others about climate
protection programs.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith noted that the idea of the West Valley Greenleaf
Committee was to gather a volunteer citizen group to take on locally relevant
Climate Change issues and that Saratoga could sponsor the first meeting to as a
kick -off for the group.
Councilmember King suggested that the City ask the three city Rotaries for
funding.
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Vice Mayor Waltonsmith suggested that all interested citizens submit their names
to her.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
Cathleen Casey addressed the council to suggest that the Parks and Recreation
Commission be reinstated to be involved with kids on this subject. She also stated
that the webpage was a good idea and to publicize data relative to recycling and
waste.
Mayor Kao closed the public comment.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith reiterated that all volunteers interested in the West
Valley Greenleaf Committee should contact her and she will pick a date for the
initial meeting.
Councilmember King encouraged full use of the website to publicize information.
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith asked Council to agree to the Santa Clara County Cities
Association's Joint Policy Collaborative Committee recommendations.
HUNTER/KING MOVED TO CONSIDER THE ADOPTION OF THE
SCCCA's RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ADDRESSING CLIMATE
CHANGE IN THE FUTURE IF THEY ARE FEASIBLE. MOTION
PASSED 5 -0 -0.
NEW BUSINESS
23. UPDATE OF THE BLANEY PLAZA BANNER POLICY AND
CONSIDERATION OF A USE POLICY AND FEE SCHEDULE FOR
RESERVED USE OF BLANEY PLAZA
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt resolution updating the existing Blaney Plaza banner Policy and consider
establishing a use policy and fee schedule for reserved use of Blaney Plaza.
PAGE/KING MOVED TO CONTINUE ITEM #23 TO THE NEXT
COUNCIL MEETING, DUE TO THE LATE MEETING HOUR. MOTION
PASSED 5 -0 -0.
24. FEE SCHEDULE UPDATE FOR THE NORTH CAMPUS
ADMINISTRATION BUILDING AND CONSIDERATION OF A NORTH
CAMPUS BANNER POLICY
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Update the fee schedule for the North Campus Administration Building Main
Room Rental and the Conference Room Rental and Consider Establishing a Use
Policy and Fee Schedule for Hanging Banners at North Campus.
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Recreation Director Taylor presented the staff report, recommending a fee of $100
for the main building room rental at North Campus and a $40 fee for the North
Campus conference room. He also requested that Council consider a new use
policy and fee schedule for a banner program at North Campus similar to the
existing one at the main campus.
Councilmember King asked for clarification on the non profit vs. resident fee
schedule. She suggested that it follow the current guidelines.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
Cathleen Casey addressed the Council and suggested that fees for Saratoga
residents be reduced or eliminated until the use of North Campus is decided upon.
Mayor Kao closed the public comment.
WALTONSMITH/KING MOVED TO GO FORWARD WITH FEE FOR
MAIN ROOM AT $100 AND $40 FOR CONFERENCE ROOM, THAT
THEY MATCH THE CURRENT FEE STRUCTURE FOR NON PROFIT
AND RESIDENT AND THAT THE BANNER DISCUSSION BE HELD AT
THE NEXT COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
25. CITY REPRESENTATIVE ON THE SARATOGA AREA SENIOR
COORDINATING COUNCIL (SASCC) BOARD OF DIRECTORS
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Review report and appoint one Council member and the City Manager or his
designee to serve on the SASCC Board of Directors.
Recreation Director Taylor presented the staff report.
Councilmember Page noted that Vice Mayor or designee be the representative for
SASCC Board of Directors.
Mayor Kao invited public comment.
No comments from the public.
Mayor Kao closed public comment.
WALTONSMITH/PAGE MOVED TO APPOINT THE VICE MAYOR OR
DESIGNEE AND THE CITY MANAGER TO SERVE ON THE SASCC
BOARD OF DIRECTORS. MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
ADHOC AGENCY ASSIGNMENT REPORTS
Mayor Aileen Kao nothing to report.
Vice Mayor Ann Waltonsmith nothing to report.
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Councilmember Chuck Page reported:
Chamber of Commerce close to signing an agreement. Chamber has completed their
conference room and already have three requests to rent it.
Councilmember Kathleen King reported:
City School AdHoc close to an agreement for the use of Prospect H.S. fields.
Councilmember Jill Hunter noted that she already gave her report at the beginning of
the meeting regarding the garden exhibit at the Historical Foundation.
CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
Vice Mayor Waltonsmith would like to have an update on the design of the proposed trail
around the Heritage Orchard.
OTHER
Councilmember King suggested that the agenda have page numbers.
Mayor Kao noted she will be away for three weeks.
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
City Manager noted that the Relay for Life will be held at Redwood Middle School on
June 23 -24, from 10 am on Saturday to 10am.on Sunday. See City Clerk Boyer for
details.
ADJOURNMENT
WALTONSMITH /PAGE MOVED TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING.
MOTION PASSED 5 -0 -0.
There being no further business, Mayor Kao adjourned the Regular meeting at 12:30AM.
Res ectfull v submitted,
Su livan, CMC
City Clerk
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