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1997/11/25 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes November 25, 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 6:45 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance. ROLL CALL: Present: (5) Council Members Flores, Mackenzie, Reilly, Vdak- Martinez, and Mayor Spiro Absent: (0) None Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Joe Netter, City Attorney John Flitner, Assistant City Manager, Carl Leivo, City Engineer, Joe Gaffney, Planning Director, Wendie Schulenburg, Public Works Director, Bill Stephens, and City Building Official, Lee Braun. MAYORAL "THANKSGIVING" MESSAGE Mayor Linda Spiro announced that the City Council and staff wished to acknowledge Lorraine Roberts, Secretary to the City Manager, who will be retiring on December 12, 1997 after 17 years with the City of Rohnert Park. Mayor Spiro read two Proclamations acknowledging and honoring Lorraine Roberts as an Honorary Citizen of Rohnert Park and thanking her for her many years of service to the city (copies attached to original set of these minutes). Mayor Spiro advised the Council and members of the audience that refreshments would be served in the Council Conference Room after the initial agenda items were reviewed. City Manager, Joe Netter, also thanked Lorraine Roberts for her dedicated work and loyalty during the 8 years she has worked for him. 1. CLOSED SESSION: Mayor Linda Spiro reported on the closed session which commenced this evening at 6:00 to discuss matters listed on the agenda attachment, representing an update, with no action taken at this time. 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. Corrections to the previous meeting minutes were made by Council and signified on original set of minutes. The Minutes of November 4, and 10, 1997 were corrected as follows. Council Member Reilly referred to page 8 of the November 10, 1997 Minutes and stated that his comments on Council abstentions due to possible conflicts of interest applied to both himself as President of Rancho Cotate Little League and Council Member Flores as Superintendent of the Bellevue School District, and asked the correction to be made. Mayor Spiro stated she had corrections on page 2, 8th paragraph, November 4, 1997 Minutes, she did,not recall making the statement that " Rohnert Park fit into the entire program with the County as other cities, i.e. the Countywide UGB" and asked that the statement be removed. .. ...:....:. . << Mayor Spiro stated that on page 6, November 4, 1997 Minutes, 2nd paragraph that she turned the gavel over to the Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez and not to Planning Commission Chairman, Ron Militello. Upon motion by Council Member Flores, seconded by Council Member Mackenzie, the minutes of November 4, and 10, 1997 were unanimously approved with corrections as amended. 3. APPROVAL OF BILLS: Upon motion by Council Member Reilly_ , seconded by Council Member Mackenzie, City bills presented per the attached list in the amount of $1,329,979.06 were unanimously approved. 4. ADDING INFORMATIONAL NON- AGENDAED MATTER.4: Mayor Spiro asked Council Members or staff if there were any non - agendaed informational items to add to the agenda. -- Council Member Reilly stated he had one item and Mayor Spiro stated she also had one item. 5. YOUTH CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES from 1997 -98 Youth of the Year Program Mayor Spiro introduced Youth Representative, Eric Rico, who provided the youth report at this time. Mr. Rico stated he has met with Planning Commissioner, Greg Nordin, several members of the Chamber of Commerce and reviewed the Senior Project Program 6. SCHEDULED PUBLICAPPEARANCE: 1) Introduction of Interim Recreation Director Ron Mikalis -- Mayor Spiro introduced Ron Mikalis, Interim Recreation Director. Mr. Mikalis stated he will be serving as Interim Recreation Director for two months and that he was the Recreation Director for the City of Vacaville for 24 years. Mr. Mikalis will serve as the staff liaison to the Park & Recreation Commission. He commended the City for its beauty and stated that the Council should be very proud of it and he looked forward to his working with staff. Council Member Mackenzie asked if the City of Vacaville has a skateboard park. Mr. Mikalis stated that it has been discussed in the City of Vacaville and the main problem was acquiring insurance for a skateboard park. 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). Mr. Bill Adams, 716 Brett Avenue, Rohnert Park, was recognized and stated he was present to support Vicki Vidak- Martinez to be appointed Mayor by the Council. Mr. Adams stated that Ms. Vidak- Martinez has many years of experience and has served four years on the Cotati - Rohnert Park School District Board. He stated he has lived in Rohnert Park for 17 years and would like to see the honorable council do the honorable thing on the road to maturity and appoint Vicki Vidak- Martinez as Mayor. Mr. Goldberg, 7345 Castille Court, Rohnert Park was recognized and stated he has lived in Rohnert Park for many years and wished to support the City Manager, Joe Netter. He stated that being a City Manager is a tough job and he didn't enjoy seeing the constant criticism of the City Manager and having it printed in the local newspapers. Mr. Goldberg stated that his job takes him to many different areas of the world and he is always happy to return to Rohnert Park. He stated he contributes his sense of feeling safe in Rohnert Park is due to the efforts of City Manager, Joe Netter, in maintaining a well run city. He also acknowledged that Mr. Netter has worked for the City for 18 years and felt he should be recognized for his many years of service. He stated he was against the ouster of the City Manager but would support a recall move. Mr. Goldberg expressed his dissatisfaction with the County Supervisors who he blamed for the increase in water and sewer rates for Rohnert Park. He (encouraged other residents of Rohnert Park to come to City Council meetings and express their opinion. John Lund, 176 Adele Avenue, Rohnert Park, was recognized and stated he was appearing before the Council tonight to support the succession of Mayors in their normal procession. He stated he has lived in the area for 30 years. He stated there is a recall process occurring in Windsor and in order to engineer a recall, according to his sources, there has to be proof of gross incompetence or negligence. He stated he belongs to an organization that was asked to help in rejecting the recall action in Windsor, therefore, he is familiar with it. He stated that the issue in Windsor is really a personality disagreement. Mr. Lund asked why the Council would want to go out of their way to by pass the normal secession of Vice- Mayor to Mayor and asked what the charges are against the person who is coming up for that position and asked if this is also a matter of a personality disagreement or discrimination based on gender citing a 3 male member Council or some other perceived unfairness. He urged the Council to give his comments their consideration when making their decision. Mr. Lund commented on the NEA (National Endowment of the Arts) and commended them for their programs and stated the City needs more programs for its young people. Harry Hartich, 7341 Castille Court, Rohnert Park, was recognized and asked the Council to protect the water and trash rates for the citizens of Rohnert Park. He states the rates are continually going up. He stated that pumping water to the geysers will damage the aquifers and his property values have gone down and now the city is going to put in water meters, which will further exacerbate the problem. Mayor Spiro advised Mr. Hartich that a decision has not been made on the installation of water meters. Council Member Flores stated he would like to address the water rate issue being brought up by Mr. Hartich. Mayor Spiro stated that the question can be answered by the City Manager and we don't have dialogue at this time. RECESS: Mayor Linda Spiro declared a recess at approximately 7:28 p.m. Cake and refreshments were served in honor of Lorraine Roberts in the Council Conference Room. MEETING CALLED BACK TO ORDER: The meeting was called back to order at 7:45 p.m. 8 CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor 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. Council Member Flores asked to address Resolutions 97 -207 - and 97 -208: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park Commending James P. Pekkain, Director of Recreation on the Occasion of His Retirement and A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park naming James P. Pekkain "Honorary Citizen" of the City of Rohnert Parr Council Member Reilly asked to address Resolutions 97 -209, 97 -210 and 97 -211: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park naming Roland L. (Ron) Brust, (209); Paul Skanchy (210) and Homer Rail (211) as "Honorary Citizens" of the City of Rohnert Par/ Council Member Flores asked that the Mayor read the Resolution for Jim Pekkain and stated that he has known Mr. Pekkain for 25 years and wished to thank him for his many years of service to the City. Council Member Flores stated he has also played golf with Jim Pekkain and wished to give him a gift of golf balls for a retirement gift. Mayor Spiro read Resolution 97 -207 commending James P. Pekkain, Director of Recreation on the Occasion of his Retirement and Resolution 97 -208, naming James P. Pekkain, "Honorary Citizen" of the City of Rohnert Park. Jim Pekkain, Director of Recreation, was recognized and stated he wished to thank the Council for their support in the many years he has served the City and stated it has been a fantastic job and he looks forward to retiring in Rohnert Park and seeing the community continue to grow. Mayor Spiro reviewed Resolutions 97 -209; 97 -210 and 97 -211 naming Roland L. (Ron) Brust, Paul Skanchy and Homer Rail as "Honorary Citizens" of the City of Rohnert Park. Mayor Spiro stated that seeing all these employees retire is both a sad and happy experience and added they will all be missed. Council Member Flores stated he would like to personally thank the staff members who have been honored here tonight and stated that these are the people who have dedicated their lives to the City and due to them we have a City to be proud of today. r#�q% :'::X C atn 1 Mid. Council Members Mackenzie and Reilly agreed with Council Member Flores and thanked the staff members for their many years of service. Discussion ensued regarding Resolution 97 -214. Mayor Spiro stated that this position has been reviewed by Council and staff recommended an increase in the salary range. Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the meeting's agenda ACCEPTANCE of CASHIINVESTMENTS REPORT for Month End, October 31, 1997 Resolution Nos: 97 -207 COMMENDING JAMES P. PEKKAIN, DIRECTOR OF RECREATION, ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT 97 -208 NAMING JAMES P. PEKKAIN "HONORARY CITIZEN" OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 97 -209 NAMING ROLAND L. (RON) BRUST "HONORARY CITIZEN" OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 97 -210 NAMING PAUL SKANCHY "HONORARY CITIZEN" OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 97 -211 NAMING HOMER RAIL "HONORARY CITIZEN" OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 97 -212 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PUMPING FIRE ENGINE FOR DEPT. OF PUBLIC SAFETY 97 -213 ACCEPTING REVISED PROPOSAL TO RESURFACE AND REPAIR NUMEROUS BASKETBALL AND TENNIS COURTS 97 -214 AUTHORIZING CLASSIFICATION AND SALARY RATE AND RANGE FOR CITY POSITIONS (Administrative Assistant to the City Manager and Recreation Director) 97 -215 REJECTING THE CLAIM OF TARA DECORDOVA/SHARI DECORDOVA CIO LAW OFFICES OF THOMAS R. KENNEY (re. alleged fall from monkey bars) 97 -216 REJECTING THE CLAIM OF JAMES BAKER CIO VALORIE BADER/LAW OFFICES of Briceno, Freed & Bader, P.C. (re. alleged employment matter) Upon motion by Council Member Mackenzie, seconded by Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez , the Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda, was unanimously approved. 9. OTHER RESOLUTION FOR CONSIDERATION. 97- RATIFICATION OF MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH SEIU, LOCAL 707 MAINTENANCE WORKERS City Manager, Netter, advised the Council that this item will be carried over as negotiations are continuing. 10. SONOMA COUNTY LIBRARYSYSTEM/ROHNERT PARK LIBRARY- Discussionlupdate 1) Introductions: Roger L. Pearson, Library Director & Don Gass, Rohnert Park Librarian City Manager, Joe Netter, introduced Mr. Roger L. Pearson, Library Director and Don Gass, Rohnert Park Librarian to the Council. Mr. Gass stated that the Rohnert Park Library is one of the busiest in Sonoma County. He stated they have made approximately $11,000 a year in book sales and are receiving a grant for $24,000 to upgrade the computer systems. He stated they are highly dependent on volunteers for 2,000 hours a year and stated that approximately 31,000 people come through the door every month. Council Member Flores stated that he wished to acknowledge Mr. Gass who has been the Rohnert Park Librarian for many years and his own children, as well as his students, have relied on Mr. Gass a great deal and he wished to thank him for his years of service to the library. Mr. Gass stated he wished to thank the City Manager, Joseph Netter, as well as the Public Works Department staff for their assistance and support over the years. Mayor Spiro thanked Mr. Gass for not laughing at her when she came in looking for library cards and commended them on the implementation of their computer programs. Council Member Reilly stated that the local library is too small for the amount of residents it serves and even though the computer system is very commendable, many people still like to come in and read a book and the library's size is inadequate to house all of the books it needs as well as the computer systems and recommended the library be expanded to twice its present size. He stated he hoped the Economic Task group is reviewing the library needs. Council Member Mackenzie stated he agreed with Council Member Reilly and also thanked the staff for their contribution to the community. Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez stated she is on the Create a Town Center Task Force and stated they are suggesting a new library be built as part of the town center and with 31,000 visitors a month to the library alone, half of the city's population would be going to the town center just to use the library. Mr. Gass stated that the library is creating a home page on the internet where information can be made available from magazine articles and other resource documents 24 hours a day. He stated the library is open two nights a week and are planning to be opened 3 nights a week. He stated they have installed a voice mail and security system this year. Mr. Roger L. Pearson, Library Director, was recognized and stated that the profits from the book sales as well as funds from Long's Friends of the Library Group, have enabled them to bring the internet into the library system. He stated they are working on a computer system that will enable users to access a catalog of available books and reference sources. Mr. Pearson stated he also wished to acknowledge City Manager, Joe Netter, as one of the most professional City Managers he has worked with. 2) Fiscal Year 1996 -97 Audit Report City Manager, Netter stated that the budget has been met with a surplus and that is commendable. 11. SELECTION OF COUNCIL OFFICERS Selection of Mayor -- Council Member Flores nominated Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez as Mayor, seconded by Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez. Discussion ensued among the Council Members. Council Member Reilly stated for the record, his lack of support of the nominee for Mayor is not due to lack of experience or gender. He stated it is based on his coming back from a trip and reading in the local paper that the statement was made "this is the first step towards termination of the City Manager ". Council Member Reilly stated that because the Mayor has to work closely with the City Manager, this would not be an appropriate appointment and to do the ceremonial procedure would also be inappropriate. He stated that this is not the first time this has happened on this City Council and cited a previous situation with another Council Member who was in line to become Mayor and was not appointed and no one came forward at that time to claim it was ceremonial. He stated there has been a lot of talk about morale and he has witnessed some of the issues in team building, however, he cannot support the Vice -Mayor if she feels it is her role to terminate the City Manager. He stated that unless Mr. Netter has not done his job or there is some other reason to prove he is not capable, he could not support this action. He stated he has worked with Mr. Netter for over seven years, as has Council Member Flores, and that City Manager, Netter, has always proceeded at the direction of the Council in the performing of his duties and now, some how, Council Member Flores has decided Mr. Netter has failed in his position as City Manager, and it is difficult for him to understand Council Member Flores turn around. He stated that he finds the evaluation procedure to be inappropriate and unfair and was shocked to read a newspaper account of a closed session discussion that wasn't even voted on. Council Member Flores, stated, for the record, the City Manager serves at the will of the City Council. He stated the Council is still in the process of reviewing City Manager, Netter's contract and they cannot be accused of making a hasty decision. He stated that it is important for the Council to insure that democracy take place and reminded the Council members of the disruptive situations that occurred on the Council in the past that was the reason for a Vice - Mayor not being appointed Mayor. He stated that Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez has been a responsible member of the Council and he believes that she can represent the City Council and can work with staff members and the City Manager. He stated there are many times that Council Members have expressed a concern and then modified their statements at a later date. (� N. Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez stated she would like to follow the progression to be appointed Mayor and would do a good job in that position. Council Member Mackenzie stated he was sworn in 12 months ago and he is no longer as naive as he was even 12 months ago. He stated that fairness was not served in the former City Council procedure and he feels the appointment of Mayor is more than ceremonial. He stated that due to the fact that City Council Member Reilly was on his second term, he wished to put forth his name as his nomination for Mayor. He stated there has been quite a few times the Council has chose to elect or not elect individuals and the decision is based on votes. He stated he would not vote for Council Member Vidak- Martinez to be appointed Mayor for the reasons stated. There was no second of the motion and Council Member Reilly stated he would not second a motion to appoint himself. The motion died for lack of a second. *C O R R E C T 10 N below from 1 -13 -98 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Linda Spiro (deletion lined out/correction underlined). Mayor Spiro stated she will not be supporting Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez for Mayor because of her adversarial relationship with City Manager, Netter. She stated that this is a critical time for the City and is a time for unbiased positions to be taken. Mayor Spiro stated she felt this was the *fastest fairest way to handle this item and called the question. AYES (2) Flores, Vidak - Martinez NOES (3) Mackenzie, Reilly and Spiro Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez stated she wished to nominate Council Member Flores as Mayor and she would remain as Vice - Mayor, seconded by Council Member Flores. Mayor Spiro called for a roll call vote: AYES (2) Flores, Vidak- Martinez NOES (3) Mackenzie, Reilly, and Spiro Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez read from a prepared statement and stated this has been a difficult time for her and she said that she is a Christian and compared the dispute over city leadership to the Biblical tale of Solomon deciding between two women claiming the same child. She stated the city is the child and is in the midst of a community summit and she is going to dedicate herself to those issues and the welfare of the city's future. She made the motion to nominate Linda Spiro for another term as Mayor and Council Member Flores as Vice - Mayor. Mayor Spiro stated that the agenda to appoint Vice -Mayor is a point of order item and the Mayor has to be appointed first. Council Member Reilly stated he had a question of staff and did not want to set up a precedent but asked if the present appointees remained as is for another year and at that time, perhaps the situation has changed to the point where he would be more comfortable in his decision. City Attorney, John Flitner, advised if there are no other nominees, the status quo would prevail. :.: . Council Member Flores, seconded the motion made by Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez, to nominate Linda Spiro for another term as Mayor. The vote was unanimously approved. Mayor Spiro stated that she felt it was important for the City to have leadership that is patient and it would be beneficial to give the City Manager the opportunity to fill his role as the City Manager. Mayor Spiro stated she would support the nomination of Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez. She stated she was honored to be appointed as a two term mayor. 2) Selection of Mayor Pro Tempore (Vice Mayor) -- Council Member Mackenzie nominated Council Member Reilly as Vice - Mayor. The mo':ion died for lack of a second. Council Member Vidak- Martinez nominated Council Member Flores as Vice - Mayor, seconded by Council Member Flores. AYES (2) Flores, Vidak- Martinez NOES (3) Mackenzie, Reilly and Spiro Mayor Spiro nominated Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez to serve a second term as Vice - Mayor, seconded by Council Member Flores. Council Member Mackenzie reiterated his belief, for the record, that he did not believe that Council Member Reilly has been treated with fairness. Council Member Reilly stated that he has been accused of not wanting to be Mayor or Vice - Mayor and stated it would be an honor to be appointed, however, he doesn't lose sleep over the issue and still has the same voice and vote as does the Mayor and Vice -Mayor and the appointment to either of those positions can be a detriment in an election year. He did wish to thank Council Member Mackenzie for the nominations and support. He stated that Mayor Spiro has done a fine job and he is sure she will continue to do so. Mayor Spiro thanked the Council for the honor of re- electing her to another term and stated that she wished to comment that we are all human beings and at one time or another we have all said things we wished we hadn't. 12. COMMISSIONICOMMITTEE/BOARD APPOINTMENTS 1) Mobile Home Park Rent Appeals Board Accepting letter of resignation from Robert Taylor (JR nomination) City Council accepted, with regrets, Robert Taylor's letter of resignation from the Mobile Home Park Rent Appeals Board which expires on 12- 31 -97. A letter of appreciation will be sent to Mr. Taylor for his years of service. Council Member Reilly stated he had a few people in mind for this position. ....::..: . ..:...: 2) Senior Citizens Advisory Commission Accepting letter of resignation from John D. Chase Mayor Spiro acknowledged Mr. John D. Chase's letter of resignation from the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission and asked that a letter be sent to him expressing the Council's regrets and asked that the position be advertised for a replacement. 3) Bicycle Advisory Committee *To fill vacancy from William Brown resignation. (JR nomination) (two year term to expire 12131198) Council Member Reilly nominated James Svanda for this Committee, seconded by Council Member Flores and unanimously approved. 13. CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION MATTERS: 1) Presentation " Project: Museum Without Walls " -- City Manager, Joe Netter, introduced Lew Kuehm, of the Cultural Arts Commission and Tim Danesi, Vice - Chairperson. Mr. Kuehm was recognized and stated that the "Project Museum Without Walls- Phase I" program is an attempt to culturally enrich and beautify the community by incorporating art work into the city landscape. Mr. Kuehm reviewed the history of the Commission and stated it was basically the same as the Rohnert Park Association for the Arts. He stated their main function is looking for things for the city to do to increase the cultural arts in the city and six months ago they selected several artists to review their art work and have narrowed their search down to one artist, namely Robert Ellison who is well known and has sculptures exhibited in two Southern California cities, He stated that he hopes the City Council will support their project and they will be starting fundraising to pay for the art work. He stated that the location of the art work needs to be identified and suggested the Performing Arts Center as a site. Council Member Flores stated he is aware of the hard work that both Tim Danesi and Lew Kuehm do for the Cultural Arts Commission and set the third Monday in January as a good day for him to meet with them regarding this project. Discussion ensued as to what dates were available. Council Member Reilly stated that being this is public art, it is important the Council look at this proposal carefully and iron out the guide lines as to what is appropriate. He asked that since the art work is a gift from the artist to the city, it would not be easy to dictate to the artist what the city wants but would like a description of the art work. Tim Danesi advised they do not have the final drawings and he would like to invite the artist to the meeting with the City Council. RrP)r':t intt3ltes t11;i 7 *C O R R E C T 10 N below from 1/13/98 City Council meeting: Per Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak ,'Martinez (addition underlined). Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez *suggested the need for a comprehensive plan, stated she thinks the guide lines need to be discussed and suggested it would be more useful for the two groups to meet at a mutually acceptable time. She also stated she would like to see a budget to see if the funding is available for this project. She stated that the need for public art in the community did come up during the Community Summit meeting. Discussion ensued as to the city's costs for the public art and development of a site. Tim Danesi stated that the Cultural Arts Commission does not receive funding from the city but from donors. 2; Schedule a Joint meeting with Council (3rd Mondays - 6:00 p.m.) A tentative meeting with the Cultural Arts Commission was set for the 4th Monday in February. Mr. Lew Kuehm, stated he wished to urge the library to include a history room that contains artifacts about Rohnert Park. He stated there are items in storage that could be used in the exhibit . He stated that AFTA has a budget of $12,000 from the various fund raising efforts such as the Family Christmas Tree Festival, and the senior talent shows. Mr. Kuehm asked that Julia Yonemura's position on the Cultural Arts Commission be filled. Vice -Mayor ridak- Martinez left the Council chamber at 9:00 p.m. Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez returned to the Council Chamber at 9:05 p. m. 14. EL NINO COMMITTEE REPORT - Presentation by Bill Stephens, Public Works Manager City Manager, Netter, introduced Public Works Manager, Bill Stephens to review the progress being made and to summarize the efforts of the City of Rohnert Park to prepare for El Nino if the predicted weather pattern takes place. Bill Stephens, Public Works Manager, was recognized, and reviewed his outline for the El Nino Committee Report with the Council. His report covered potential flood areas in the city and included identifying the watershed that affects Rohnert Park, the timing of flood flows, Laguna de Santa Rosa constriction, siltation causes and effects and potential upstream solutions. He also reviewed the participants and roles of the various departments of the city and other county wide services that are working together to be prepared for any problems that arise. Mr. Stephens, utilizing a laser light on wall maps, indicated the areas of concern and explained that the watershed area encompasses 40 to 60 square miles and all of the water that falls into that area flows into a 1/2 mile area. He stated that a heavy down flow of rain all at once could cause an 8 to 10 ft. rise in Hinebaugh Creek. He discussed the removal of silt by the Sonoma County Water Agency and the need for maintenance of the water channels throughout the city and stated that Public Works has 5,000 sand bags available to residents as does Yard Birds and Home Depot if the need arises. He advised that, Bob Cassel, Fire Services Commander, is overseeing a Rohnert Park Emergency Plan which includes the stock piling of emergency gear such as rain gear, extra flood lights and small boats. He stated he will be attending a special training session to be held by the Department of Mater Resources along with members of SSU and the City of Cotati to prepare for the winter storms. Discussion ensued among the Council Members regarding flooding in Rancho Feliz Mobile Home Park, the installation of silt retention basins, riparian easements and input from the Corp. of Engineers. City Manager, Netter stated there has been discussion to widen the Laguna, however, due to environmental concerns, that action has been delayed. He stated that dredging is planned for next year. Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez expressed her concern regarding Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park and the flooding that has taken place there and asked why this problem has not been addressed by the city before this time. City Manager, Netter, stated that the siltation problem has occurred in the last two years of exceptionally heavy rain fall and in previous years there was actually a drought and the city was conserving water. Mayor Spiro expressed her concerns regarding the flooding in 'T' section that took place last year and asked if that problem has been resolved. City Manager, Netter, stated that the small drainage channel adjacent the golf course has been cleaned out and a berm has been constructed. Council Member Mackenzie expressed his concern for a riparian easement and stated the silt is coming from the large watershed area and he is anxious to hear how a more permanent solution can be made to solve this problem area. He stated that the problem stems from the lack of soil conservation and the need for long term plans and stated he would like to see a report on this problem and hear from the Natural Conservation District and obtain information from them. Council Member Reilly asked for a consensus to direct staff to make the contacts and come back to the council with the steps necessary to achieve the results necessary. Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez asked who is working with the schools. Mr. Stephens advised that City Engineer, Joe Gaffney, is working with the schools. 15. COMMUNITY SCHOOLT'S ACADEMY re facility location -- City Manager, Netter, advised that this item was agendized for Council's consideration of a possible site location adjacent to the Animal Shelter for a Community School and/or T's Academy. Discussion ensued among Council Members as to the type of school this is and its requirements for funding from the City as well as fundraising efforts by Rev. Tharpe. Council Member Flores asked for consensus that he and Council Member Reilly work on this proposal together. Mayor Spiro stated there is consensus. Council Member Reilly asked for clarification from Council Member Flores on this item (public school vs. a private school that works with the school district). Council Member Flores stated he would meet and discuss these issues with Council Member Reilly and come back with a specific proposal to be reviewed by City Attorney, Flitner. 16. ASSOCIATION OF BAYAREA GOVERNMENTS -ABAG Study on Fiscalization of Land Use (Mayors' & Council Members' Assr.. - Discussion Group) -- City Manager, Netter, advised the Council they had been provided with a packet of information and summary covering the ABAG Study on Fiscalization of Land Use. He indicated the original proposal of Revenue Sharing was revised to only include a data bank and reporting system to determine opportunities on a regional basis for each jurisdiction. The emphasis currently was on "Business to Business Sales ". He also said the Mayors' & Councilmembers' Association was looking for support from each city regarding the continuation of this project with ABAG, with a small match from each city expected not to exceed $1,000.00 per city. Mayor Spiro stated she would like a vote taken on this item and did not believe ABAG could tell them what they are going to do in their own city and questioned whether the city wanted to remain as a participant in this discussion. Council Member Mackenzie stated he was appalled at some of the anti - regional comments that were made at this meeting. Council Member Mackenzie made the motion to support, seconded by Council Member Reilly for further discussion and study on this subject, as outlined in the City Manager's report. Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez stated she supported the concept of county -wide cooperation on this topic. Council Member Flores asked what benefit to the citizens of Rohnert Park would the fiscalization of land use provide and agreed to continue discussion on this subject. *C O R R E C T 10 N S below from 1 -13 -98 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Linda Spiro (additions underlined). Mayor Spiro stated, for the record, she did not feel that the Mayors' & Councilmembers' Association *Working Group is working together as part of the whole and she did not support the motion. She stated that further information is needed to insure that we are part of the process and for this group to make their own recommendations, such as the elimination of the theater projects in Rohnert Park. The Mayor indicated that this group does not represent the majority opinion of all the cities. AYES (4) Flores, Mackenzie, Reilly, Vidak - Martinez NOES (1) Spiro 17. COUNCIL COMMITTEE ANDVOR OTHER REPORTS. 1) Canon Manor (Mackenzie /Vidak- Martinez) *Resident letters requesting a meeting with members of Sonoma County Board of Supervisors, LAFCO, and Rohnert Park City Council Council Member Mackenzie acknowledged receipt of information from City Manager, Netter and stated he and Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez have not had the opportunity to meet with staff to review this document and recommended a meeting in January with the Canon -Manor residents organization. Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez agreed with a meeting in January. Council Member Flores stated that the committee will provide a much needed service to the citizens of Canon Manor who are concerned with the effects of El Nino and have asked if there is a way that the City of Rohnert Park can assist them if problems arise. Council Member Mackenzie advised Public Works Director, Bill Stephens, to consider the request and look into it. Council Member Reilly stated efforts are being made to arrange a meeting with LAFCO and the Board of Supervisors. Discussion ensued regarding committee meetings, jurisdictional issues and the development of a strategy to deal with Canon - Manor. 2) Other, if any Mayor Spiro advised that the Senior Advisory Committee added $2,647 to their funds and raised $1,954.00 in October through senior dances. She stated that members of the committee have expressed concern for speed bumps in the parking lot for cars exiting from the Raley's Town Center and using the senior citizen parking lot as a short cut. Council Member Mackenzie discussed an ABAG General Session meeting regarding the K -12 education system regarding the "buddy system" and shared facilities that are being encouraged by Assemblywoman, Kerry Mazzoni and recommended that the city practice cooperation in this area and others and recommended a joint meeting be held in 1998 on this subject. 18. 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. 19. MATTERS' FR0A VFOR COUNCIL: 1) League of Calif. Cities/North Bay Division meeting, Thurs., Dec. 4, 1997, Napa :15# ll :: 2) League of Calif. Cities /City Council -City Manager Leadership Team Workshops- Wed.-Fri., Jan. 21 -23, 1998, Kellogg West Conference Center, Pomona; and Wed. -Fri., Jun. 3 -5, 1998, Stanford Sierra Lodge, South Lake Tahoe City Manager asked if there was any interest in attending the League of California Cities/North Bay Division meeting to be held 12 -4 -97 in Napa or meetings scheduled for City Council -City Manager Leadership Team Workshops scheduled for 1 -21 -98 in Pomona or 6- 3 -5 -98 in South Lake Tahoe. Council Member Mackenzie stated he will not be able to attend the Team Building shops due to conflicting scheduled travel time. Council Member Flores stated this is an issue the Council needs to resolve within the family and didn't think they needed a facilitator Vice -Mayor Vidak - Martinez stated she was not interested in attending. Mayor Spiro said it is only worthwhile if all members could attend. Council Member Mackenzie made the motion to continue the meeting after 10 p. m., seconded by Mayor Spiro and unanimously approved 3) Veterans' Day Event (Reilly) Council Member Reilly made the recommendation that the City acknowledge Veteran's Day in future by scheduling an event of some kind. Mayor Spiro asked for a consensus to have staff work on this request. 4) Miscellaneous, if any Council Member Mackenzie advised he appeared before the Santa Rosa City Council under unscheduled public appearances regarding the agricultural use and Vast Oaks project and stated he felt it was beneficial to Rohnert Park to know he was appearing as an individual and not as a member of the Council. Council Member Mackenzie stated he has met twice with the Housing Task Force and there is not a report at this time. Council Member Flores advised that the Salvation Army Christmas kettle ringers have two open spots and need volunteers. He also advised that the Boundary Committee needed a Task Force member for the December 10, 1997 meeting. Mayor Spiro stated she received a call from Next Step asking for time lines. `�airlr 1~toe i : till) -; Ter, X197 20. CITYMANAGER'S REPORT. 1) Housing Element Status Report - 1996 - A Report to the Legislature City Manager, Netter reviewed the 1996 Housing Element Status Report "A Report to the Legislature" and stated that 60% of the cities are not in compliance with the Housing Element. 2) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program re 1998 -99 Consolidated Plan Application Process City Manager, Netter advised that the City Engineer, Joe Gaffney, is doing a survey regarding handicapped ramps and the costs involved in Sections A, B, C & L. This project seems a likely proposal for grant funding. Other options will be listed for Council. Proposals are due late January 1998 or early February 1998. 3) Spreckels Performing Arts Center - Lighting options City Manager, Netter, stated he met with Michael Grice, Performing Arts Director, to review the lighting needs at the Performing Arts Center. He stated discussion involved the installation of a Hollywood spotlight to be roof mounted in order for the facility to be more visible as well as lighting the trees surrounding the complex. The possibility of installing spot lighting around the windows was also discussed. Mayor Spiro agreed that the facility needed more efficient lighting and stated if a person is not familiar with the area, the Performing Arts Center is difficult to locate. Council Member Mackenzie agreed that the facility as well as the parking lot is too dark. 4) Sister City Garden Plan - Update City Manager Netter advised that Planning Director, Wendie Schulenburg had met with the Open Space District and will report on this item at the next session. 5) Donation of 1.58 acre site by Hugh Codding City Manager, Netter advised that he had met with Hugh Codding regarding a 1.58 acre parcel of land west of Food 4 Less and discussed the possibility of it being donated to the City. Mr. Codding offered to donate this land to the city and staff has acknowledged his generosity in making this offer. Council concurred. 6) Dec. 7th Council/Management Mixer - Update City Manager, Netter, advised the Council that the plans for the December 7, 1997 City Officials Mixer have been finalized and will take place at the Performing Arts Center beginning at 2:00 p.m. in conjunction with The 1940's Radio Hour being performed at 2:30 p.m. and concluding at 6:00 p.m. -- Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez and Council Member Flores stated they would not be able to attend. aCl. ;tall -:i ? t 21. CITYATTORNEY'S REPORT.• City Attorney, John Flitner, asked that his report be deferred to the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting due to the fact that it is quite lengthy and the hour is late. 1) Housing Element - Self Certification City Attorney, John Flitner, advised the Council if they agree to self certify the Housing Element, the City would not have the umbrella of the HCD which would make the City vulnerable to litigation. He stated that certification is viewed as a valuable public service. He stated he would be compiling a detailed report. 2) Other, if any City Attorney, John Flitner, advised that at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council he will have prepared a report addressing the Rules on Conflicts of Interest - Analysis and items on the Executive session. 22. UNSCHEDULED PUBLICAPPEARANCES. Mayor Linda Spiro asked if there were any additional unscheduled public appearances at this time. None. 23. ADJOURNMENT. • There being no further business, Mayor Linda Spiro adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:25 p.m. 44��� Recording Secretary mm/jh- mins:112597m„ Mayor r2J r2J IT 210 PROCLAMATION ACKNOWLEDGING AND HONORING LORRAZNE R08ERT8 FOR HER MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED WORK AS SECRETARY TO THE CITY MANAGER �XEREAB, t h e City Council of the City of Rohnert Park wishes to express its gratitude and appreciation to Lorraine Roberts for seventeen years of invaluable service as Secretary to the City Manager; and IiYKERE�iB, Lorraine began working for the City as Administrative Secretary for former City Manager, Peter M. Callinan, and has been Joseph Netter's "right hand" as Secretary of the City Manager for the past seven years; and YY�EREAB, Lorraine can be counted on for her professionalism. She not only works efficiently, accurately, and rapidly but frequently takes the time to help others meet their deadlines as well, she arrives early, rarely takes a break, and can arrange for hotel , accommodations, airline tickets or dinner for a Council work session on a "moment's" notice; and YYHEREAI�, both Council and staff will miss Lorraine's tremendous reservoir r+ of knowledge, her refreshing sense of humor and especially her famous candy dish; and �YSEREAB, Lorraine has been a loyal and trustworthy employee who fully repects the confidential nature of some of the information that crosses her desk. She neither gossips nor spreads rumors and treats everyone with respect. s: 11TO�Y, TSEREFORE, I, Linda Spiro, as Mayor and on behalf of the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park, do hereby proclaim Lorraine Roberts to be one of the best Administrative Secretaries a City could have. BE IT Fz7RTSER F"430 ZMEZ7 that Lorraine Roberts be hereby named an "HONORARY CITIZEN" of the City of Rohnert Park as a token f. of, our deep affection and appreciation. DITZ.YAIVD REG�TTZ.gRLYPROC. gIffiEn this 25th day of November, 1997 F: CITY OF ROHNERT PARK " Mayor " c I Dome D @, 1 130R4D CLAMa gTI®W �y COMMENDING LORRAINE ROBER` -S ON THE OCCASION OF HER RETIREMENT AND NAMING HER "HONORARY CITIZEN" OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK WHEREAS, Lorraine Roberts soon will retire from her position December 30, 1997, as Secretary to the City Manager and thus conclude seventeen years of faithful and dedicated service to the City of Rohnert Park; and WHEREAS, Lorraine has performed her duties and responsibilities in an exemplary manner and is well known for her intelligence, competence, dependability and sense of humor; and WHEREAS, Lorraine's presence as a member of the City organization will be greatly missed, not only by Council members and staff, but also by many of the citizens in our community. NOW, THEREFORE, I, Linda Spiro, as Mayor and on behalf of the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park do hereby proclaim LORRAINE ROBERTS "HONORARY CITIZ " and encourages all citizens of the community to join in the observance of this occasion. BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that the City Council of the City of Rohnert Park does hereby extend its best wishes to Lorraine on the occasion of her retirement and does hereby wish her many, many years of health, happiness and prosperity. DULY AND REGULARLY PROCLAIMED this 25th day of November, 1997 CITY OF ROHNERT PARK Mayor Lai