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1997/09/23 City Council Minutes>,K Rohnert Park City Council Minutes September 23, 1997 The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in regular session commencing at 6:00 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with Mayor Linda Spiro presiding. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Linda Spiro called the regular session to order at approximately 7:20 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance. ROLL CALL: Present: (4) Councilmembers Flores, Mackenzie, Vidak - Martinez, and Mayor Spiro Absent: (1) Councilmember Reilly (out of town on business) Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Netter, City Engineer Gaffney, Planning Director Skanchy and Director of Recreation Pekkain. 1. CLOSED SESSION. Mayor Linda Spiro reported on the closed session which commenced this evening at 6:30 to discuss matters listed on the agenda attachment. Pursuant to the Brown Act, Mayor Spiro reported that in Executive Session tonight the City Council voted not to renew the existing contract of the City Manager. It was decided, however, that Mr. Netter will continue to be employed as the City Manager as an at -will employee of the City. In his capacity as City Manager he will continue to receive the same salary and fringe benefits. However, he will then be employed as per City Ordinance 26, which governs the employment of a City Manager. His at -will status will be governed by the City Code, the same as other city management employees. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Mackenzie, with Councilmember Reilly absent and abstention by Mayor Spiro due to absence from the meeting, the minutes of September 10, 1997 were approved as submitted. 3. APPROVAL OF BILLS. Upon motion by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez, seconded by Council- member Flores, City bills presented per the attached list in the amount of $1,348,211.25 were unanimously approved. 4. ADDING INFORMATIONAL NON- AGENDAED MATTERS. Mayor Linda Spiro asked Councilmembers or staff if there were any non - agendaed informational items to add to the agenda. These were signified as follows: eCouncilmember Mackenzie signified a couple of items to add for discussion under the Mayor's "Celebrate Rohnert Park" item listed under Matters from Council. *Mayor Spiro signified an item to add under Matters from Council regarding the Governor's Conference on Women's Call to Action. *Councilmember Flores signified one item to add under Council Committee Reports regarding Ad Hoc Committee comprised of himself and Councilmember Mackenzie on evaluation documents. it© ert ' k fYt outttcit A+finutes Septembe r23 1997, •Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez signified a League of California Cities item to add under Council Committee and /or other reports. •Councilmember Mackenzie signified an item to add under Matters from Council for further discussion regarding a question on closed session votes and request for clarification from the City Attorney when he returns. •Mayor Spiro referred to request by one of the City Council Members to hold closed sessions in the conference room in the future, so requested staff not to schedule other things in the conference room during this time. 5. YOUTH CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES from 1997 -98 Youth of the Year Program Mayor Linda Spiro introduced Youth Representatives Monica Ohkubo and Jamie Sahouria, who provided the youth report, advising that a meeting was held tonight on the teen center and results would be shared at the next City Council meeting. 6. SCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCE. 1) Dave Eck re. wastewater options and land use -- Per phone call received earlier today at the City Offices from Dave Eck that, due to illness, he requested deferral of this item to the next Council agenda. 7. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES. Mayor Linda Spiro stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown Act), citizens wishing to make a comment may do so at this time (limited to 3 -5 minutes per appearance with a 30 minute total time limit). 1) Elane Bielecki, 957 Eleanor Avenue, reviewed her experience with changes in traffic patterns over the past eight years she has lived in the community. She expressed concerns related to increased traffic with the opening of Middle School on Snyder Lane and shared reasons for requesting the installation of speed bumps in the area and traffic lights at Eleanor Avenue and Snyder Lane. 2) Edward Bielecki, 957 Eleanor Avenue, shared contents of September 2nd article in the Voice by Jud Snyder regarding speed bumps, and referred to the slide presentation on speed bumps by City Engineer Gaffney at a recent City Council meeting. Mr. Bielecki reviewed reasons for supporting the installation of speed bumps due to safety factors. Councilmember Flores expressed appreciation to the Bielecki's for their comments and confirmed the City's interest in efforts to improve the safety of its streets. He commended the previous report presented by City Engineer Gaffney and responded to the above - presented concerns that he was sure the City Engineer would be working closely with the Director of Public Safety on this matter. 8 CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Linda Spiro asked if there were any questions regarding the matters on the Consent Calendar which were explained in the City Manager's Council Meeting Memo. City Manager Netter explained the need to pull Resolution No. 97 -169 from the Consent Calendar for further review regarding the award of contract for trailer mounted jet vacuum for the Public Works Water Division. ItpT�derE Park City �uuncil lllinq #es (3) �� tem6er 23, :1'999':! Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the meeting's agenda Resolution Nos: 97 -168 PROCLAIMING OCTOBER 5-11,1997 "FIRE PREVENTION WEEK" 97 -170 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THREE (3) RADAR GUNS FOR THE DEPART- MENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY 97 -171 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS TO RESURFACE AND REPAIR NUMEROUS BASKETBALL COURTS AND TENNIS COURTS 97 -172 APPROVING AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH PHILLIPS GROUP FOR PLAN CHECKING SERVICES FOR THE ROHNERT PARK BUILDING DEPARTMENT (re. substitution of Exhibit "B" for compensation) 97 -173 APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 10 TO SONOMA COUNTY WATER AGENCY (SCWA) MASTER AGREEMENT 97 -174 AUTHORIZING THE SALE OR DISPOSAL OF CERTAIN SURPLUS EQUIP- MENT AND VEHICLES Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with Councilmember Reilly absent and with the exception of Resolution No. 97 -169, the Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda, was unanimously approved. AGENDA ORDER. Due to being ahead of schedule, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Council concurred to move items forward on the agenda, as signified in these minutes, in order to review the skate park proposals closer to the scheduled agenda time. F,M NUMBERS 31R A, HE RF.TAME D AS SHINLErcn ON 1HE AGENDA A for referencing purposes to be consistent with the Council meeting agenda. Council agreed to MOVE ITEM #10(2) FORWARD ON THE AGENDA to handle at this time. 10. PARKS AND RECREATION MATTERS: 2) Roberts Lake Brick Memorial - uudate -- Director of Recreation Pekkain reviewed the staff report for this item regarding the progress of the Brick Memorial, the extent of Gary and Dale Tatman's donation, and areas that need to be addressed before the project is completed. Mr. Pekkain responded to Council questions. -- Discussion included Council signifying the preference to wait until after the Community Summit, October 16 -18, 1997, to schedule the dedication for the Roberts Lake Brick Memorial, possibly the following Friday, October 24th. Council expressed agreement with the suggestion to invite others who have purchased memorial bricks to the dedication. Various alternatives were also mentioned regarding possible solutions to keeping ducks away from the area, if this becomes a problem, such as a hedge or fenced area with nice wrought iron gate. Council concluded this could be evaluated more fully in the future. Resolution No: 97 -175 EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO DALE AND GARY TATMAN FOR CONTRIBUTION TO THE ROBERTS LAKE BRICK MEMORIAL Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak- Martinez, and unanimously approved with Councilmember Reilly absent, which included to proceed with scheduling a formal presentation during a regular Council meeting, reading of the resolution was waived and Resolution No. 97 -175 was adopted. i€oir�nert ]P Cit C� Mina #es (�) Sc � 23,:;:1947:: Council agreed to MOVE ITEM #12 FORWARD ON THE AGENDA for handling at approximately 7:40 p.m. 12 EMPLOYEE NEGOTIATIONS 1) Staff report & update -- City Manager Netter referred to the staff report provided to Council with the resolution to ratify the Memorandum of Agreement with the Rohnert Park Dispatchers, and advised this is the last unit to be considered this year: Mr. Netter reviewed the highlighted changes signified in the final agreement presented to Council. Resolution No: 97 -176 RATIFYING A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE ROHNERT PARK DISPATCHERS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez, and unanimously approved with Councilmember Reilly absent, reading of the resolution was waived and Resolution No. 97 -176 was adopted. Council agreed to PROCEED WITH ITEM #13 ON THE AGENDA for handling at approximately 7:45 p.m. 13. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS. File No. 1759 - Outback Restaurant/Fancher Development Service, Inc.- Site Plan and Architectural Review for a 6,000 sq. ft., 216 seat restaurant and cocktail lounge, located on northwest corner of Redwood Drive and the main road leading into the parking lot for Home Express and the Wal -Mart Store; CS:PD District -- Planning Director Skanchy reviewed the staff report for this item, referring to plans on display, and responded to Council questions. Discussion followed. Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with Councilmember Reilly absent, to accept the action of the Planning Commission for approval of File No. 1759, was unanimously approved. Council acknowledged looking forward to the opening of the Outback Restaurant, to which Applicant Nina Raey responded they hoped to open by December 15, 1997. Council agreed to RETURN TO ITEMS #9 & #10(i) ON THE AGENDA for handling at approximately 7:55 p.m. 9. PROPOSED SKATE PARKIN PORTION OF PRICE CLUB BUILDING City Manager Netter referred to letter of September 8, 1997 from Dave Marshall, Owner /CEO of the Grind Skatepark, regarding proposed skate park in a portion of the Price Club Building. Mr. Netter explained optimistic aspects of this proposal, with various negotiations and procedures in process, and responded to Council questions. Discussion included reference to a recent video presentation to Council on this type of facility. Council commended the possibilities of such proposals and signified agreement with comments by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez on being very impressed with the video, liked the aspect of adult supervision, and the above - reviewed proposal would be a very good project to bring into the City and would fit in with other things going into that area. Ro nO t'axtF fly Ctranc i Mitlntcs ( too 10. PARKS AND RECREATION MATTERS: 1) Skate Park Proposal -- Director of Recreation Pekkain reviewed the staff report for this item pertaining to results of the Parks & Recreation Commission Public Hearings of 9/10/97 & 9/15/97. The Commission reviewed the residents' concerns and decided to reconsider locating the skate park in Golis Park, with two commissioners stating that the G -Park location would be their first choice. The Commission feels H -Park meets the concerns expressed by the G -Park residents. Therefore, the Commission's recommenda- tion is to hold a public hearing at 7:00 p.m. on 10/20/97 at its regularly scheduled meeting to consider locating the skate park in H -Park. Mr. Pekkain responded to Council questions and pointed out aspects regarding the passage of AB 1296 (that would go into effect on 1/1/98, if signed by the Governor) which gives cities immunities for skateboarding (as described in Government Code Section 831.7) under certain conditions including: the activity is generated at a public skate park or facility on public property; only applies to activities described as lesser skill levels /stunts or tricks; is for people 14 years old and older; public entity must adopt an ordinance requiring users of the park to use a helmet, elbow and knee pads or be subject to a citation, and post signs regarding same. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Mayor Linda Spiro opened the meeting to receive public comments on this item at approximately 8:10 p.m. 1) Joanna Barnes, 1530 Genesis Ct., withdraw her request to speak, due to preceding information provided by Director of Recreation Pekkain that Golis Park is no longer being considered. -- Ms. Barnes' letter of September 22, 1997, expressing her opposition to the proposed skatepark in G Park, was distributed to Council prior to this meeting. 2) Laurel McCarthy, 4315 Grove Court, shared contents of September 23, 1997 petition letter with 16 signatures from G Section residents expressing opposition to a skateboard park at Golis Park and recommendation to seek alternates which are centrally located (i.e. near the Community Center or Public Safety Building), not adjacent to an elementary school or abutting homes. 3) Pete Sand, 4310 Grange Court, current PTA President at Gold Ridge Elementary School with membership of approximately 250, referred to letter of September 10, 1997 distributed to Council, which was presented at the Public Hearing of said date held by the Parks and Recreation Commission, expressing opposition to skate park area in Golis Park. He expressed appreciation for the consideration of other proposals reviewed this evening. Mayor Linda Spiro closed public comments at approximately 8:15 p.m. Discussion included Council acknowledging the importance of appropriate mitigations for consideration of new ventures, commending the efforts of the youth regarding this item, and agreement to proceed with looking at the existing need and location possibilities. - -Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, and unanimously approved with Councilmember Reilly absent, as recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission, to hold a public hearing during its meeting of Oct. 20, 1997 to consider H -Park for the proposed skate park. -- City Manager Netter brought attention to letter of Sept. 8, 1997 from Redwood Empire Municipal Insurance Fund (REMIF), distributed to Council for its information, responding to previous inquiries concerning the supervision and liability issues of skateboard parks. ilnti�nerf Perk f�i " .C`outt� Minutes (Cr) .' �ep%r 23 .I94'1 Aunda Item #IOr2)was handled pmiQusly & Council PR OC .F,DF, TO A TENDA ITEM #11 CROSS & CROWN LUTHERAN CHURCH LETTER REQUEST f or waiver of fire are sprinkler requirements on portable buildings for elementary school expansion City Manager Netter referred to discussion of this item at the previous Council meeting and shared background review of similar situations for use of portable buildings. Based on past practices, the City Manager recommended approval of this waiver of fire sprinkler requirements for the exemption period not to exceed three (3) years, subject to previously reviewed conditions outlined by Fire Services Commander Cassel in the second opinion of his September 9, 1997 memo, with additions signified by the City Manager at the previous Council meeting, and listed in draft letter agreement presented for further consideration at this Council meeting. Thereafter, memo of September 11, 1997 from Fire Services Commander Cassel was distributed to Council, providing an update on the Cross and Crown Modular Building conditions, signifying he agreed to allow deletion of the ionization detector from the monitored fire detection system, with signified stipulations. Also, letter of September 19, 1997 was distributed to Council, from Cross & Crown Lutheran Church and School representatives, School Board Chairperson Fred LaBarge and Congregational President Wes Claassen, providing supplemental information to support this request for waiver. This included changing the maximum occupancy number previously signified from 24 to 28 students in the building at any one time, noting that the building is designed and approved to accommodate up to 35 students, and with acknowledgment that their typical class size is only 24 students. Fire Services Commander Bob Cassel responded to Council questions, including confirmation that he continued to prefer his first opinion not to grant this waiver, as signified in his above - referenced memo of September 9, 1997. Discussion included Council expressing various concerns related to this matter including the need for consistency with similar situations. Referring to the School District not being bound with fire sprinkler requirements in its portables, Councilmember Flores commented, as a School Superintendent, that in his 30 years as an educator, they have not had an incident. He pointed out that every school has to be certified by the Fire Marshall before it can be occupied and, also, it is the responsibility of administrators to be sure facilities are as safe as possible. Councilmember Mackenzie made a motion to approve sending the letter agreement as drafted to Cross & Crown with the exception of changing item #3 to be "no more than 28 occupants ", seconded by Councilmember Flores with the condition of amendment that the waiver be reviewed at the end of the three (3) year period and, if there are no problems, that the waiver be extended for an additional time period. -- Discussion continued during which Fire Services Commander Cassel responded to additional Council questions. Councilmember Flores responded to the Mayor's request for his interpretation of renewal, that with the best interest of the community in mind, he had concerns about something absolute which takes the humanity out of the law. He indicated that, when establishing a policy, it is important to consider that it leaves room for situations of judgment. Referring to the above waiver request, if the conditions are tendered to be safe, the waiver would be subject to renewal, the same as for the school at St. Elizabeth Seton and, therefore, have consistency with similar situations. R ©t ncrt i* tv> t►u�m Mtntt#es ('� tCemb .r2 :1997 Councilmember Mackenzie expressed concern about the differing views pertaining to this item, but concluded in signifying retention of Councilmember Flores' friendly amendment as presented and initially accepted in his above motion Mayor Linda Spiro signified, for the record, that she would support the motion as stated, but her intent is that the portables be fire sprinklered in three years. The intent is not to do something just because of goodness, as fire personnel should not be put in any kind of jeopardy, which is her reason for asking the schools to install the fire sprinklers. The original motion by Councilmember Mackenzie for approval of the waiver for this item, seconded by Councilmember Flores with retention of above - reviewed friendly amendment, with Councilmember Reilly absent, was unanimously approved. INTRODUCTION of NEW DEPARTMENT HEADS -- City Manager Netter referred to the City Council "Welcome" reception for New Department Heads held at 5:00 this evening preceding this Council meeting. This provided an opportunity to introduce and welcome the City's new managers including Building Official Lee Braun; Planning & Community Development Director Wendie R. Schulenburg; Public Works Manager William "Bill" Stephens and City Engineer Joe Gaffney. The Council expressed appreciation for the new Department Heads, recognizing Public Works Manager Bill Stephens, who was present at this Council meeting and shared comments on his enthusiasm of the opportunity to serve in his new capacity. - COUNCIL RETURNED TO PRE, -SCH .DITI.ED AGENDA ORDER - RECESS Mayor Linda Spiro declared a recess at approximately 8:45 p.m. to proceed with the COMMUNITY SUMMIT - OCTOBER 16-18,1997 - PUBLIC INVITATION by Mayor Linda Spiro and Members of the Rohnert Park City Council. This special event was scheduled during the City Council meeting for the purpose of encouraging cable TV viewers and citizens attending the meeting to participate in the upcoming Community Summit from October 16 -18, 1997. A letter of invitation has been prepared for this purpose over the signatures of Linda Spiro, Mayor /City of Rohnert Park; Janice L. Heffron, Superintendent /Cotati- Rohnert Park Unified School District; Ruben Arminana, President /Sonoma State University; and Dennis Patterson, Chairman Rohnert Park/Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. RECONVENE Mayor Spiro reconvened the Council meeting at approximately 9:05 p.m. and, with the exception of Councilmember Reilly, all other Councilmembers were present. 14. COUNCIL COMMITTEE and/or OTHER REPORTS: 1) Mayors' & Councilmembers' Assn. General Meeting of 9/11/97 (Spiro/Mackenzie) Councilmember Mackenzie reported on this meeting which he and Mayor Spiro attended. He advised that Mayor Linda Spiro gave a report on the City's upcoming activities including "Celebrate Rohnert Park" and the Community Summit. County Auditor Rod Dole reported on Phase II of the Sonoma County Economic Vitality Partnership. There will be a meeting on the next phase here in Rohnert Park at the DoubleTree (October 15th, 7:00 -9:30 a.m.) regarding tourism and agricultural promotional efforts. Councilmember Mackenzie pointed out that this will be right before Rohnert Park goes into its own Community Summit. R ©hue t' Conti M�nat� ;j {8� swewber 23,194'1` 2) Senior Advisory Commission Report (Spiro) -- Mayor Linda Spiro reported on the Senior Advisory Commission meeting held on Thursday, September 18, 1997, which included Bob Weiman reviewing the proposed tax initiative. Mayor Spiro referred to support signified by the Seniors for same, with letter anticipated from them urging Council's support, and commented she would vote to support it when the letter is received. Mayor Spiro also commended the great job the Seniors are doing to raise funds for the people, totaling approximately $8,000 for the year to date, and encouraged them to keep up the good work. 3) Ad Hoe Committee to develop City Manager evaluation documents /job description/ time table ( Flores /Mackenzie) -- Councilmember Flores reported that the ad hoc committee comprised of himself and Councilmember Mackenzie met for this item. He was pleased to report that they have completed their report, which will be submitted to the City Manager for his review, analysis and additional responses. Councilmember Flores advised the process will be to provide this report to the City Council, after the City Manager's review, by the end of November for approval of the documents by the City Council. 4) League of California Cities/Resolutions Committee (Vidak - Martinez) Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak- Martinez commented on the City being Members of the League of California Cities and that she has been appointed to serve on the Resolutions Committee for the meeting to be held on October 13, 1997, which she will attend. 15. COMMUNICATIONS: Communications per the attached outline were brought to the attention of the City Council. No action was taken unless specifically noted in these minutes. 1) Rosen notice re. portion of property deeded by City -- Mayor Linda Spiro referred to the Notice of Trustees regarding attempt to sell real property 5'x70' to Mountain Shadows Golf Course and requested the City Manager to check into her question asking why this can be done with a portion of property deeded by the City. 16. MATTERS FROM/FOR COUNCIL: 1) Donation of Memorial Tree/Plague for Georgia Moses (Vidak- Martinez) Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak- Martinez reviewed letter provided to Council earlier this evening from Kimberly Bricker, representing a group of community people, regarding the recent tragic death of Georgia Moses. The letter requests the donation of a memorial tree and plaque in her honor, for presentation during the proposed ceremony by representatives of the group of community people referenced therein. Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez advised that the newspaper article correctly reported that Georgia Moses was a Santa Rosa resident, however, Georgia and her family had been residents of Rohnert Park until the last few months, and she had also been a student at Mountain Shadows Middle School. As a part of this community, a number of children at school need closure around her death. A motion was made by Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez, seconded by Councilmember Flores, and unanimously approved, for the City to purchase and contribute a memorial tree and plaque for Georgia Moses to be placed on or near the Mountain Shadows Middle School property for presentation during the above - proposed ceremony honoring Georgia. iT+�hinert:Par GYty Ct�utbc M ies () Sep wwloliif"Tl 2) Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA) re U.S. 101 Widening (Mayor Spiro) Letter of recommendation from City Council to SCTA to include U.S. 101 Widening from Petaluma to Novato - ballot measure -- Mayor Linda Spiro referred to the Calthorpe Study which has been presented to SCTA, with decisions not yet made. She asked if Council Members had reviewed the Calthorpe Report, signified that she thought some input to SCTA from Rohnert Park would be appropriate, and asked for Council's feelings on the matter. Discussion included the following: *Councilmember Armando Flores signified it was critical in terms of traffic solutions and aspects related to economy throughout the area, which needs to be addressed in a meaningful way. This U.S. 101 widening makes good sense and he would like to see this Council go on record to that affect. Councilmember Flores made a motion requesting a letter over the Mayor's signature to SCTA indicating that position. *Mayor Linda Spiro indicated her interest to second the above motion, but said she would like to know if all Council Members have reviewed the Calthorpe Study. She signified her personal opinion that she would like to go on record in support of the U. S. 101 widening all the way to Windsor, but whether or not citizens will support doing that is another matter. *Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak- Martinez shared concerns as a commuter between Rohnert Park and San Rafael, and signified it is kind. of difficult for a lot of people where she works. Sonoma County needs to consider a system -wide upgrade and needs to look at the whole. Though it may be cheaper to address one part of it, they should address all of it, including other needs such as widening bike paths. She would like to see a system -wide upgrade. *Councilmember Jake Mackenzie stated he did not support writing this letter at this time, not to say that he might support it at some time in the future. He expressed the preference for the City Council to be briefed on the Calthorpe Study, and commented that when Calthorpe was initiated, there was some consideration by the Sonoma County Transportation Authority given to the section between Novato and Petaluma regarding funding for a ballot measure approach. It was felt the $124 million estimated for this widening would be billed at the scope of 1/2% sales tax in both counties. Councilmember Mackenzie believed they more strongly endorsed the widening of U. S.101 within Sonoma County. He sympathized with the commute concerns expressed above by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez on that section, but in terms of the north area, there is a greater possibility for Sonoma County pertaining to the proposed rail corridor. Councilmember Mackenzie signified the need to deal with the responsibility of creating a safer corridor between the two counties. He just preferred that the City Council act after it has had a chance to be briefed on all indications regarding financial considerations and possibilities which seems to be ahead toward development. *Mayor Linda Spiro suggested some sort of encouragement to be as creative as possible, indicating that Councilmember Mackenzie's point is well taken. The Council probably should have a public hearing on the Calthorpe Study, but it would be all right, while studying the plan further, to send a letter stating the above - reviewed Council concerns. -- The initial motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Mayor Spiro, with Councilmember Reilly absent, including revised directives as signified herein, to send a letter to Sonoma County Transportation Authority regarding the U.S. 10 1 Widening, was unanimously approved. 3) Initial Environmental Study re. Proposed Housing Proiect on Snyder Lane Mitigated Negative Declaration (Reilly) -- This item was deferred to the next Council meeting due to Councilmember Reilly being absent from this meeting. i n ert Perk O V Wi 14tn es P tetrrber`2 t99r? 4) Celebrate Rohnert Park/Founders' Day name (Mayor Spiro) Mayor Linda Spiro expressed concern about whether or not "Celebrate Rohnert Park" has been a name change from "Founders' Day ". She recommended communicating to the Committee the concern that the City does not have a lot of traditions, but Founders' Day is one of them. The Mayor commented that this year's occasion was a great event, with the only part needing further consideration being the location of the parade. She encouraged incorporating a new route as people could not see this event very well, with no houses along the parade route, and it did not seem to have as much attendance as previous years. She requested this message also be relayed to the Committee. -- Discussion included Council extending congratulations for the success of this year's recent event and expressing appreciation for all the hard work involved. Councilmember Mackenzie, as Liaison for this item, recommended referral of the above - expressed concerns to the Committee through Lew Kuehm, Chair of the Founders' Day Association, with request to prepare a formal evaluation and presentation for Council's review in November. Council concurred 5) Mayor's letter congratulating Scottish Parliament formation (Mackenzie) Mayor Linda Spiro referred to the draft letter prepared for this item and, since she had actually been to Scotland in years past, recommended sending the letter as prepared. -- Council concurred. -- Councilmember Mackenzie expressed appreciation to the Mayor for this idea. In response to Mayor Spiro's additional proposal to prepare a resolution for Councilmember Mackenzie to present in person, Councilmember Mackenzie expressed the preference to wait until closer to the event regarding his possibilities of attending. 6) Park flooding (Mayor Spiro) -- Mayor Linda Spiro requested staff to check on recent concerns a citizen expressed to her about a park flooding in prior years. 7) Senior Complex concern re. dirt mound behind Sears building (Mayor Spiro) Mayor Spiro also requested staff to check on concerns expressed by seniors on this item. 8) Stop Signs/Raley's Towne Center & Hewlett - Packard "M" Section (Mayor Spiro) Mayor Spiro requested staff to check on additional concerns ' expressed by seniors regarding the stop signs between the senior complex and the Raley's Towne Center. Also, she brought to Council's attention that something needs to be done about drivers who are starting to use city streets within certain sections as short cuts, like Mitchell Drive to Camino Colegio. She requested also mentioning this to the Director of Public Safety. Relating further to the senior pedestrian concerns at Raley's Towne Center, Mayor Spiro inquired about the letter from Codding Investments listed on Council Communications regarding the proposed expansion of Raley's and possibility of moving the Post Office to an adjacent location. -- City Manager Netter reviewed parking concerns of the Post Office location and previous background efforts with Mr. Codding on relocation possibilities. The current situation basically reflects Raley's interest to expand. Wells Fargo recently closed its branch office in this vicinity and has located its customer services in Raley's. Consideration of a relocation possibility for the Post Office could be beside the PAL building, as it is an isolated spot and could provide a corner street post office with sufficient parking. -- Mayor Spiro requested consideration also be given to installation of a mail box for putting in mail from the driver's side of a car, as compared to the current system for only the passenger side. Rncrt Pair ft� sConnct. Minutes (11} Septemx' 23,19x' 9) Closed session votes (Mackenzie) -- Councilmember Mackenzie requested further review of votes cast by Council in closed session, when the City Attorney returns. -- Mayor Spiro expressed agreement with this request, and commented that she thought she explained this item correctly based on what the City Attorney told her, but would like assurance from the City Attorney when he returns. 10) Women's Call to Action /Governor's Conference (Mayor Spiro) -- Mayor Linda Spiro referred to information received on this one -day seminar to be held in October and requested the item be placed on the next Council meeting agenda to consider Council approval of Mayor Spiro and/or Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez to attend, if interested. Council agreed. 17 CITY MANAGER'S REPORT.• 1) Disaster Medical Unit Trailer - Update -- City Manager Netter reviewed the staff report of September 11, 1997 from Fire Services Commander Bob Cassel for this item, noting that this was a high priority of the Council several months ago. Mr. Netter explained the need for fencing at the location originally suggested by Petaluma Valley Hospital, i.e. at the Medical Building at the intersection of Rohnert Park Expressway and Snyder Lane. As previously indicated, Petaluma Valley Hospital has agreed to pay for one -half of the fencing costs to place the unit at the planned site, leaving the remaining half to be paid by the City. Council concurred. 2) Department of Public Safety/Fire Engine purchase -- City Manager Netter explained the staff report provided for this item and responded to Council questions. In order to follow required procedures for going out to bid, which will only take about three weeks, Mr. Netter recommended authorizing Fire Services Commander Cassel and Purchasing Supervisor Gabriel to prepare the bid specs and proceed with this item. Council concurred. 3) Specific Plan re. Wilfred/Dowdell area - status report -- City Manager Netter referred to the staff report provided for this item and explained that he has been working with staff on the 22 acres behind Home Depot. He previously directed Planning Director Skanchy and Assistant City Manager Leivo to meet with property owners of this area regarding Specific Plan development possibilities. The results of these efforts signify that the property owners are not in sync with each other, with about 75% willing and the other 25% not willing to proceed. City Manager Netter signified there are two concerns needing consideration. First, he has requested Planning & Community Development Director Wendie Schulenburg to review possibilities to see if the City can develop a program to finalize a specific plan area through a cost reimbursement program. Secondly, to determine if the annexation fees /capital facilities program can be clarified so that fees can be collected when the area is annexed. For the benefit of new Councilmembers, City Manager Netter reviewed background, prior to eighteen months, regarding the City's previous policy of collecting annexation fees, which had to be abandoned because of Proposition 218 and certain legal nexus requirements. Mr. Netter signified recent communications with Margaret Sohagi, Legal Counsel for the City's General Plan, inquiring about possibly developing another way of collecting some kind of annexation fees. Therefore, City Manager Netter recommended identifying the costs and reimbursement program along with clarification of the Proposition 218 issue before proceeding. Staff is in the process of making a list of proposed projects, which will be presented to Council for review. ttvl�nerc Park City;! �ta�ncl�. Mlnntes (12) > September 23, 199?> 4) Sonoma County Increase in Refuse Tipping Fees -- City Manager Netter explained this informational staff report provided to Council from Management Analyst Angela Fogle. The Sonoma County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution on June 24, 1997 increasing the Sonoma County rate for refuse disposal by $1.60 per ton, raising the County Refuse Fee Schedule from $35.20 to $36.80 per ton, for a 4.55% fee increase. The increase is attributed to a 3% CPI increase and to a 1.55% increase in regulatory compliance costs. The rate change was part of the 1997 -98 budget and becomes effective on January 1, 1998. 5) Golf Course dredging - update -- City Manager Netter reviewed the staff report of September 19, 1997 . from City Engineer Joseph Gaffney providing an update on the Mountain Shadows Golf Course, Lake "C" dredging. American Golf has proceeded with efforts to excavate the lake and, to date, has excavated the lake to nearly its original limits, with additional improvements to increase the storage capacity, as outlined in the staff report. City Manager Netter advised he has received communications commending these efforts. He explained reimbursement possibilities in the event the City is successful in obtaining federal funds, with confirmation that City Engineer Gaffney will continue to pursue funding from FEMA for the restoration work. 6) Newsletter - update -- City Manager Netter reported that the Newsletter was sent to all households and businesses in the community. It can also be placed in the economic packages currently being prepared for the upcoming Community Summit in October. Extensive efforts are being made over the next twelve months to provide promotional documents to promote the City. 7) El Nino storm preparations -- City Manager Netter reviewed pro- active efforts by the City for preparation of the El Nino winter storm forecasts signified in recent news reports. Staff has formulated an El Nino Committee for this purpose. Planning Director Paul Skanchy had a meeting for recommendations of preparing an action plan for certain areas, including mobile home parks. Though it is not known when, or if, the estimated heavy rains will occur, the City is taking this pro- active approach and will be working with other agencies, etc. to be prepared ahead of time. Council commended these efforts. 18. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT. • Council acknowledged the memorandum from City Attorney Flitner advising he would be out of town from September 23 to October 14, 1997. 19. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES: Mayor Linda Spiro asked if there were any additional unscheduled public appearances at this time. No one responded. 20. ADJOURNMENT. ° Mayor Linda Spiro adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:48 p.m. to: 6:30 p.m., Thurs., Sept. 25, 1997, Mountain Shadows Golf Course Restaurant for Joint Meeting with Parks & Recreation Commission To be adjourned to: 6:30 p.m., Tues., Sept. 30, 1997, DoubleTree Restaurant for Joint Meeting with Cotati- Rohnert Park Unified School District Board of Directors tllz� Wa4e_& Dep Ci lerk i h/ mins:092397mn Mayor