2001/01/23 City Council MinutesCITY OF ROHNERT PARK
CITY COUNCIL
PROPOSALS FOR SOLID WASTE SERVICES
WORK SESSION MINUTES
January 23, 2001
Tuesday
The Rohnert Park City Council met this date for a work
session open to the public to discuss proposals for solid
waste services, commencing at approximately 5:00 p.m. in the
City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with
Mayor Mackenzie presiding.
CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Mackenzie called the work session to order at
approximately 5:00 p.m. He indicated that
Councilmembers Vidak- Martinez and Reilly were running
late.
ROLL CALL:
Present: (3) Councilmember Spiro; Vice Mayor Flores;
Mayor Mackenzie
Absent: (0) None
Councilmember Reilly arrived at 5:05 p.m. and
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez arrived at 5:10 p.m.
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City
Manager Netter, City Attorney Strauss, Interim Assistant
City Manager Stephens, Management Analyst Fogle, and
Finance Director Lipitz.
I. INTRODUCTIONS:
Mayor Mackenzie introduced the consultants from Hilton
Farnkopf & Hobson, LLC. He noted that each of the
bidders present this evening would be given five minutes
to make a presentation during the "Public Comment"
portion of the meeting. Furthermore, he noted that there
will be no special meeting to discuss waste services
as previously scheduled on January 23rd, and that final
action in this matter will be taken at the Council
meeting on February 13, 2001.
ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION: SOLID WASTE ISSUES
January 23, 2001 Page( 2)
II. SUMMARY REPORT OF PROPOSALS BY CONSULTANTS:
A. Consultants Present Summary Report of
Proposals /Comparative Analysis:
and
B. Councilmember Questions:
Robert Hilton and David Langer from Hilton Farnkopf &
Hobson, LLC, shared the contents of the summary report
and responded to various Council inquiries. Management
Analyst Fogle shared brief staff introductory remarks.
FOR THE RECORD, Mayor Mackenzie asked if Norcal Waste
Systems was still under consideration at this time, and
Consultant Langer indicated that they are not under
consideration presently.
At approximately 5:50 p.m., Mayor Mackenzie ANNOUNCED,
after consulting with the City Manager and the City
Attorney, that the Budget Work Session scheduled for
6:15 p.m. this evening would be DEFERRED until the next
Council meeting on February 13, 2001, in order to
continue the Solid Waste Services Work Session until
7:00 p.m. Council CONCURRED with the Mayor's
announcement.
C. Council Refuse Subcommittee Report /Comments:
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez gave a brief summary of the
recommendations from the Refuse Subcommittee. Mayor
Mackenzie indicated that at this point, the Refuse
Subcommittee has essentially been discharged of its
function.
D. Staff Comments:
Management Analyst Fogle shared brief comments on the
rerentl y complete'a refer ti,,.cks .moo L
i �i i ens e checks Lvt each
l C olLlpc1I11 e$
who submitted a waste service proposal. She indicated
that a more detailed memo on the reference checks will
be made available to the Council prior to the February
13, 2001, meeting.
ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION: SOLID WASTE ISSUES
January 23, 2001 Page( 3)
III. DISCUSS SELECTION OF SERVICES:
and
IV. COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND COMMENTS:
Council discussion concluded, and at the suggestion of
Mayor Mackenzie, Council CONCURRED on three matters:
(1)agreement on Option 4 as outlined in the Summary
Report by the consultants as to the required
services selected;
(2)recognition of Norcal Waste Systems' proposal as
it has not been formally withdrawn;
(3)agreement that each Councilmember will review
staff reports and information, consultant charts,
and public comments, prior to making the final
decision at the February 13, 2001, Council meeting.
V. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
At this time, Mayor Mackenzie indicated that the first
four speakers who submitted cards would be called forward
to speak, and if time allowed, .any more speakers who
wished to make comments would be recognized.
1. Ken Etherington, 1333 Oakland Road, San Jose, for Green
Team, was recognized and discussed how Green Team was
started as a recycling company back in 1993. He
briefly touched on their services, their two transfer
stations, and their accomplishments in recycling,
particularly for multi - family residences in the City
of San Jose. He then outlined the benefits of choosing
the Green Team proposal program, including their
diversion rate, their recycling program, and their use
of biodiesel and split -body trucks. Finally, he
responded to Council inquiries.
2. Ernie Carpenter, for Rohnert Park Resource Recovery,
was recognized and called forward another
representative for Resource Recovery, who DISTRIBUTED
a handout with the reviewed and revised grades for
Resource Recovery as originally represented in the
"Non- weighted Grading of Key Factors" in the
consultants' report. He shared various figures that
called for the revision of the grades under the three
categories of "Reasonableness of Costs to Operating
Data /Assumptions," "Relative Reasonable Costs," and
"Financial Ability." Mr. Carpenter then explained how
Resource Recovery would be able to meet the City's
goals, particularly with AB 939, and he used an
enlarged check as a visual aid to show how the City
ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION:. SOLID WASTE ISSUES
September 26, 2000 Page (4)
could financially benefit from choosing Resource
Recovery for its waste services.
3. Rick Powell, 905 Crinella Drive, Petaluma, for North
Bay Corporation, was recognized and discussed the
various reasons North Bay would be the best choice for
the City. He covered numerous areas ranging from North
Bay's diversion plan, choice of location, local
management team, use of new and /or use equipment,
current facility upgrade plan, public education, and
cart costs. He then responded to Council inquiries.
4: James Landa, 3400 Standish Avenue, Santa Rosa, District
Manager for Empire Waste Management, was recognized and
addressed the disposal differential between the county
and Empire Waste. He discussed yard waste and
recycling, and he invited the consultants to come out
and look at the disposal tags. He then talked about
the "C" rating for Empire in the category -of "Waste
Diversion Plan," and he outlined Empire's efforts in
the area of single stream. He discussed a new facility
to handle single stream, vehicle technology, textiles
and other recycling programs, food waste programs, and
public education. Finally, he commented on the
differential in disposal and referred Council to
specific figures in the consultants' report.
Mayor Mackenzie noted at this time that the speakers who
were not able to come forward due to time constraints
could do so during the "Unscheduled Public Appearances"
portion of the Council meeting this evening.
VI. COUNCIL DIRECTION:
The consultants from Hilton Farnkopf & Hobson as well as
Management Analyst Fogle shared final comments on the
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Council discussion concluded upon.MOTION by Councilmember
Reilly to support multiple contracts for temporary debris
box service, with the provision that each firm pay the
cost of the annual audit of their contract of
approximately $5,000, seconded by Councilmember Spiro
stating that she wished to encourage small businesses.
Said motion FAILED 2 -3 with Councilmember Vidak - Martinez,
Vice Mayor Flores, and Mayor Mackenzie dissenting.
Mayor Mackenzie then stated that the Council was left with
the options of one integrated contract, or one refuse
contract and one separate contract for debris box service.
Council CONCURRED.
ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION: SOLID WASTE ISSUES
January 23, 2001 Page( 5)
There being no further business, Mayor Mackenzie
ADJOURNED the work session at approximately 7:07 p.m.
Katy Leonard,
Certified Shorthand Reporter
CSR No. 11599
Q
J ke Mackenzie,
Mayor
City of Rohnert Park
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES for:
CITY COUNCIL
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
ROHNERT PARK FINANCING AUTHORITY
January 23, 2001
Tuesday
The concurrent meetings of the City of Rohnert Park for
the City Council, the Community Development Commission,
and the Rohnert Park Financing Authority met this date in
regular session for a regular meeting commencing at
8:07 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard,
Rohnert Park, with Mayor Mackenzie presiding.
CALL TO ORDER:
Mayor Mackenzie called the regular session to order
at 8:07 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: (5) Councilmembers Reilly, Spiro and
Vidak- Martinez; Vice Mayor Flores; and
Mayor Mackenzie
Absent: (0) None
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City
Manager Netter, City Attorney Strauss, Interim Assistant
City Manager Stephens, Planning and Community Development
Director Kaufman, and Management Analyst Fogle.
WORK SESSION: A work session commencing at approximately
5:00 p.m. was held in the chambers to discuss Solid Waste
Services - Request for Proposals.
WORK SESSION: The work session which was to commence at
approximately 6:15 p.m. in the Conference Room to discuss
the Budget - Six -Month Financial Review was DEFERRED to
the next council meeting.
1. CLOSED SESSION:
Mayor Mackenzie reported on the closed session which
commenced at approximately 7:10 p.m. to discuss matters
listed on the agenda attachment, representing an update.
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(2 )
PERSONNEL MATTERS:
1. Rohnert Park Public Safety Officers Association -
Request for Re- opener with Joseph D. Netter City
Manager & Pamala Robbins, Personnel Manager:
Nothing to report.
LITIGATION MATTERS:
1. Possible litigation, one case:
Nothing to report.
2. Las Casitas, et al. v. City of Rohnert Park:
Nothing to report.
REAL ESTATE NEGOTIATIONS:
1. Lands around the Stadium:
Nothing to report.
2. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES - JANUARY 9, 2001:
Upon MOTION by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Vice
Mayor Flores, the Minutes of January 9, 2001 were
APPROVED 5 -0 AS SUBMITTED.
3. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS, IF ANY (INFORMATIONAL ONLY):
Mayor Mackenzie asked the Councilmembers if there were
any informational communications to add to the agenda.
*Mayor Mackenzie ANNOUNCED that due to prior commitments
of Councilmembers, the meeting this evening will not be
adjourned to the Special Meeting on Monday, January 29,
2001, for Solid Waste Services. He noted that the
Council will consider the proposals and make their final
decision at their next regular session on February 13,
20010
*Vice Mayor Flores signified one item to add under
"Council Committee and /nr Other Repnrtq° : (1) T,ihrary
.._.. -..,- l
Steering Committee.
* Councilmember Spiro signified that she would like to
REQUEST an update on the progress of the railroad
crossing improvements.
4. YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM HIGH
SCHOOL 2000 -2001 YOUTH OF THE YEAR PROGRAM
SELECTIONS:
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(3 )
1. Seniors Ray Bacani and Nichole Henderson were
recognized. Junior Tyron Cabalsi was absent. The youth
reps shared the contents of the Youth Report.
Highlights included the following:
(1) Youth of the Year continue to work with SCAYD on
alcohol advertising issues and drug prevention.
Next meeting with the various groups involved
will be on February 20, 2001, at 4:30 p.m.
(2) Update on the Great American Smoke -Out.
5. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATED STUDENTS, INC.,
REPRESENTATIVE:
1. Seann Pridmore, ASU Vice President of University
Affairs at SSU, was recognized. Highlights from the
SSU Report included:
(1) Students returning to SSU tomorrow to begin
Spring semester.
(2) Student leaders going to conference on Thursday
and Friday, January 25 and 26, to work on unity.
(3) Seann will attend Sonoma County Housing Coalition
to voice the housing needs of the students at SSU.
6. SCHEDULED APPEARANCES /PRESENTATIONS:
1. Maxine Schwab, 6186 San Carlos Court introducing David
Kowolski of DK Systems of Rohnert Park re Web Site for
the Rohnert Park Association for the Arts:
Ms. Schwab announced the formation of the web site for
the Rohnert Park Association for the Arts with links to
other web sites. She noted that no funds from the City
budget are being used for this project. She explained
that the goal of the site, www.rpafta.org, will be to
provide residents with a complete list of all of the
activities and organizations relating to the arts. She
introduced David Kowolski of DK Systems, and he gave a
listing of several of the main links. He announced
that the release date is set for March 1st and that the
test site can be found at www.dksweb.com /afta.
2. George Ellman Co -Chair of the League Committee on
Transportation, League of Women Voters re Study on
Transportation in Sonoma County:
Mr. Ellman gave the Council a brief overview of
report entitled, "Transportation in Sonoma County" and
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(4 )
prepared by the League of Women Voters of Sonoma
County. He highlighted various modes of transportation
as well as funding and suggestions for improvement. He
noted that copies of the report are available at the
County library.
7. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
Mayor Mackenzie 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 limit).
1. Christina Derkos, 6275 Lone Pine Road, Sonoma County,
was recognized and noted that she is the Human
Resources Manager for Empire Waste Management, as well
as a Certified Human Resource Professional. She
discussed Rohnert Park's reputation within and beyond
the County as a premiere employer. Speaking as an
employee advocate, she noted that should Empire lose
the contract with the City, seasonal and training
employees would be laid off. She cited City Manager
Netter as a role model for human resource personnel,
and she asked the Council to consider Empire's
employees and their futures as thoughtfully as it would
consider the City's employees.
2. John James 6043 Dolores Drive, was recognized and
spoke in support of Empire Waste Management. He
commented on the trucks in Empire's fleet, noting
that they are safe, new, and mechanically sound.
He also noted that the drivers often wave and are
aware of children and their safety as the trucks come
through the neighborhoods.
3. Josh Herndndez, from Empire Waste Management, was
recognized and discussed the ongoing efforts at
Empire Waste Management to find the best ways to
service multi - family units in the City. He noted
that the single stream system, which is new, can
work for every apartment complex in the City, and
he indicated that Empire's drivers know the
customers and the complexes very well.
4. Robert Dodson, 126 Pamplona Court, was recognized and
indicated that he has spent 20 years in the waste
industry. He noted that currently he is a seasonal
employee for Empire Waste Management, and that a loss
of the contract with the City could mean a loss of his
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(5 )
job. He indicated that he has no interest in working
for other local waste companies and that he is very
impressed with Empire Waste as a company and a provider
of waste services in Rohnert Park.
5. Bob Fleak 157 Parque Recrero, was recognized and
read his latest dispatch to the park residents
concerning the Las Casitas case. He ASKED the
Council to consider eminent domain as a serious
option on the matter of the mobilehome parks, and
he further asked that the City support the City
of Cotati to maintain their vacancy control in its
ordinance.
6. Geoff Harrison, 2 Chelsea Drive, Santa Rosa, was
recognized and noted that his sole job at Empire
Waste Management is that of Safety Officer. He then
discussed Empire's concern with safety as demonstrated
by weekly safety meetings, monthly sessions, quality
equipment, O.S.H.A.- compliant personal equipment for
employees, route inspections, safety incentive
programs, and monthly department safety dinners. He
ASKED the Council to consider safety in their
deliberations, and he shared his feeling that Empire
has the best trained and equipped drivers.
7. Lisa Gonzalez, 1126 Elena Avenue, was recognized and
noted that she has two sons, ages 14 and 18, who enjoy
bikeriding. She ASKED the Council to consider some way
to designate an area or park for children and teenagers
to bikeride, perhaps even as part of any proposed
skating park. She noted the difficult time she has had
in finding a place for her children to recreate in a
positive way.
Mayor Mackenzie REQUESTED City Manager Netter to forward
Ms. Gonzalez' request to Recreation Director Barry as well
as to the Parks and Recreation Commission. He also ASKED
Councilmember Reilly to incorporate a bikeriding park into
his search for a location for a possible skate park.
8. Robin Bleckwehl 5000 Roberts Lake Road, was
recognized and spoke to Empire Waste Management's
corporate citizenship as far as their involvement in
community programs. She noted that Empire Waste has
proven itself a valuable community partner by
sponsoring and underwriting various community programs,
and she indicated that the Council should consider
community building as much as cost and efficiency in
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(6 )
their selection of a waste services provider.
9. Marissa Miller, 7500 Camino Colegio, was recognized
and indicated that she graduated from Sonoma State
University with a degree in Environmental Studies and
Planning, and that she currently is the Recycling
Education Coordinator at Empire Waste Management. She
discussed the waste diversion programs at Empire as
far as their work with schools and with a variety of
organizations like the YMCA and the Rotary Club. She
also outlined her work with the single stream pilot and
the food waste pilot programs, and she reiterated her
feelings that Empire Waste will provide the best waste
diversion and waste education for the City. Finally,
she noted her commitment as a resident and on a personal
level to educating her community on recycling matters.
10. Laine Holman, 2280 Bethards Drive #4, Santa Rosa, was
recognized and noted that for the last four years she
has worked as a property manager in Santa Rosa. She
commended Empire Waste Management for their prompt and
efficient response in getting her complex into their
recycling program. She also commended the driver from
Empire who has serviced the complex she manages for
the last four years. She noted his attention to the
safety of the children in the area and his knowledge
of the complex's needs for waste services. She
expressed her feelings that the Council extend the
contract to Empire, and again she reiterated Empire's
admirable education program, including bilingual
literature and a tour of Empire's facilities.
*************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * **
9. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Mayor Mackenzie asked if there were any questions about
the matters on the Consent Calendar, which were explained
in the City Manager's Council Meeting Memo. The Mayor
signified removal of two Consent Calendar items for
further discussion as follows: Resolution No. 2001 -19
per Councilmember Vidak- Martinez' recommendation; and
Resolution No. 2001 -20 per the Mayor's recommendation.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the
posting of the meeting's agenda
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(7 )
Approval of Bills /Demands for Payment concurrently for:
*City of Rohnert Park /City Council in the amount of
$1,355,786.57
*Community Development Commission in the amount of
$20,586.22
Accepting Cash /Investments Report for Month End,
September 30, 2000, concurrently for:
*City of Rohnert Park /City Council
*Community Development Commission
* Rohnert Park Financing Authority
Resolutions for Adoption:
2001 -21 AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING NOTICE OF COMPLETION,
WATER STORAGE TANKS - 1998, PROJECT NO. 1998 -03
2001 -22 APPROVING GRANT APPLICATION FOR REPLACEMENT OF
PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AT ALICIA PARK
2001 -23 AUTHORIZING CERTAIN CLASSIFICATIONS AND SALARY
ADJUSTMENTS FOR CITY POSITIONS
Authorizing Approval Letter Exempting the Sonoma County
Chapter of the American Red Cross from the City's
Transient Occupancy Tax.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MATTER:
CDC Resolution for Adoption:
2001 -01 RATIFYING APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION REDEVELOPMENT HOUSING FUNDS FOR
REBUILDING TOGETHER ROHNERT PARK, FORMERLY
CHRISTMAS IN APRIL, TO REHABILITATE THE HOMES OF
THE VERY LOW - INCOME ELDERLY, DISABLED AND
FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN
Upon MOTION by Vice Mayor Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, with the exception of Resolution
Nos. 2001 -19 and 2001 -20, the Consent Calendar as
otherwise outlined on the meeting's agenda was
UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
Item for consideration:
2001 -19 PROCLAIMING SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2001, AS
"NATIONAL ORGAN DONOR DAY"
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(8 )
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez noted the presence of Mr.
Robert Young, the citizen who requested this resolution,
in the audience. At her request, Mayor Mackenzie read
the proclamation.
Upon MOTION by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez, Resolution No. 2001 -19 was
UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
Item for consideration:
2001 -20 PROCLAIMING ROHNERT PARK'S COMMITMENT TO CONSERVE
ELECTRICITY AND TO MEET THE CONSERVATION GOALS OF
GOVERNOR GRAY DAVIS' REQUEST FOR EMERGENCY ENERGY
7% REDUCTION
Mayor Mackenzie noted the City Council's and the City
staff's concerns over the current energy crisis, as well
as the steps taken to reduce the use of electricity. He
REQUESTED that the City Attorney come back with a report
on the success of this resolution in Rohnert Park.
Upon MOTION by Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, Resolution No. 2001 -20, with amended language to
read, "The City Council, working with City staff, has
taken actions to immediately reduce electricity use," was
UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
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9. ROHNERT PARK WELLNESS CENTER - UPDATE ON PROJECT AND
CONSIDERATION OF REVISED PROPOSAL OF INTENDED USES AND
TENANTS:
1. Staff /Council Committee re-oort:
Management Analyst Fogle shared the contents of the staff
report provided to Councilmembers in their packets. She
ci AiTP a Glide presentation, and she revponded to Cvun�:.ii
questions. Subcommittee members Spiro and Reilly gave a
brief report, and City Attorney Strauss provided legal
clarifications when necessary.
2. Presentation by Rohnert Park Wellness Center
Representative, Christina Bell, and Tenant Allen
Goldhammer:
Ms. Bell PROVIDED Council with HANDOUTS of the proposed
Wellness Center, and she expanded on Management Analyst
Fogle's staff report. Mr. Goldhammer shared the
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(9 )
contents of materials provided to Council about the
proposed tenancy of The Center for Conservative Therapy.
Mayor Mackenzie noted the absence of the other proposed
tenant for the Wellness Center, KISCO Retirement
Communities.
EXTEND COUNCIL MEETING:
Upon MOTION by Vice Mayor Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, a motion to extend the meeting past
10:00 p.m. to finish necessary agenda items was
UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED at approximately 10:00 p.m.
At this time, Mayor Mackenzie called forward those
citizens who submitted speakers cards for this topic:
1. Sy Berkowitz, 2531 Warm Springs Road, Glen Ellen, was
recognized and spoke in support of the proposed
Wellness Center. He highlighted the headline article
from the January 7, 2001, Press Democrat, about the
number of doctors leaving Sonoma County for various
reasons. He briefly discussed his background as a
program director for a paratransit group, and he
encouraged the Council to find a way to get the
Wellness Center off the ground so that it can help
the rising population of seniors.
2. Robin Bleckwehl 5000 Roberts Lake Road, was recognized
and spoke in favor of the Wellness Center. She
discussed how she takes care of an elderly friend who
is disabled and completely dependent upon her for his
needs. She noted that there are no feasible
alternatives for him right now in Rohnert Park. She
said that the Wellness Center would meet his needs
perfectly in that he could contract the services he
would need through the site manager
3. Rita Roberts 4745 Fairway Drive, was recognized and
encouraged the Council to act now on the Wellness
Center before any proposed tenants find different
locations. She briefly discussed Rohnert Park's
history as an innovative city, willing to try new
things, and she noted that after living here for so
long, it would be difficult to leave the City if there
were no housing of this type available to seniors.
4. Betty Ferra 433 Ava Avenue, was recognized and
encouraged the Council to act now and focus on getting
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(10)
the Wellness Center in Rohnert Park. She noted that
she moved here in 1960 and that it was necessary to
send her children to schools in other nearby cities as
there were no local educational facilities at the time
for them. She asked the Council to respond to the
needs of the City's seniors with a Wellness Center in own
Rohnert Park.
3. Council discussion /action:
*Consent to Modified Plan in Lease Agreement:
City Attorney Strauss outlined two options for the
Council to choose from. Mayor Mackenzie read the options
to the Councilmembers as the City Attorney had to step
out of the Council meeting for a while.
Council discussion concluded upon MOTION by Councilmember
Spiro to proceed with Option 1 as outlined by City
Attorney Straus as follows:
"To find the proposed use is a related medical or
health care use and those uses listed in the lease,
and to waive the Specific Plan request in the
lease."
Vice Mayor Flores seconded the motion, and City Manager
Netter and Planning Director Kaufman clarified certain
issues. City Attorney Strauss REQUESTED additional staff
input. The motion FAILED 2 -2, with Councilmember Reilly
abstaining due to a possible conflict of interest which
City Attorney Strauss will review and report back on.
Councilmember Spiro then made a MOTION to proceed with
Option 2 as outlined by City Attorney Strauss as follows:
"To find that the lease should be amended to allow
for this use, and to direct staff to draft
amendments for subsequent Council action."
The motion DIED for LACK OF A SECOND.
Upon MOTION by Vice Mayor Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, a motion to reschedule for further
discussion at the February 13, 2001, Council meeting the
revised proposal of intended uses and tenants of the
Rohnert Park Wellness Center to allow time for additional
staff input, was UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS
January 23, 2001
10. CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEE LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS FOR 2001 -
CONSIDERATION OF ADDING A SUB- COMMITTEE, ENTITLED
"EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE," COMPRISED OF THE MAYOR AND
.VICE MAYOR, FOR THE PURPOSE OF SCHEDULING REGULAR
REVIEW MEETINGS WITH THE CITY MANAGER, CITY ATTORNEY,
AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER, TO
BE DULY NOTICED AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC:
Mayor Mackenzie provided clarification of the purpose of
the proposed Executive Subcommittee. Council CONCURRED
with the formation of an Executive Subcommittee to be
added to the City Council Committee Liaison assignments
for 2001 as outlined above.
11. COMMISSION /COMMITTEE /BOARD APPOINTMENTS - COUNCIL
CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENTS FOR VACANCIES AND /OR
TERMS EXPIRED DECEMBER 31, 2000:
1. Bicycle Advisory Commission:
*To fill the VACANCY due to David Hardy
indicating no interest in re- appointment.
*To fill the VACANCY due to Rich Shone
indicating no interest in re- appointment.
2. Cultural Arts Commission:
*To fill the VACANCY due to Linda Holm
indicating no interest in re- appointment.
3. Housing Financing Authority:
*To fill the VACANCY due to Florence Gresty
indicating no interest in re-appointment.
4. Mobile Home Parks Rent Appeals Board:
Councilmember Spiro expressed her concerns over
applicant Michael Caalim's young age, and she indicated
that they agreed to see how matters proceed should he be
appointed.
Upon Council acceptance, Michael Caalim was newly
appointed as Councilmember Spiro!s nomination to
fill the vacancy due to the September 26, 2000 resignation
of Jenny Huff, for a two- year-term to. expire December
31, 2002.
5. Senior Citizens Advisory Commission:
*To fill the VACANCY due to *ter nee
Dorothy Johnson indicating no interest in
re- appointment.
* CORRECTION ABOVE from 2/13/01 CitY Council meeting: Per Councilmemher Vidak- Martinez
(deletion lined out/addition underlined)
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(12)
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez indicated that she would
need time to review the applications which she just
received for this appointment.
12. PROPOSAL TO ADD NEW TOWN OF LIVINGSTON, SCOTLAND AS A
NEW SISTER CITY:
Mayor Mackenzie gave a brief description of Livingston,
Scotland. At the suggestion of Councilmember Spiro,
Mayor.Mackenzie AGREED to begin exploring the idea of
adding Livingston as a new Sister City by discussing it
with the Sister Cities Committee.
13. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS:
*File No. 1904 - Bijan Madjlessi /Masma Construction
Application for a General Plan Amendment, Rezoning and
Site Plan and Architectural Review for a 16 -unit
apartment complex proposed at 1399 East Cotati Avenue,
including Certification of the Negative Declaration in
compliance with the California Environmental Quality
Act.
1. Staff Report: Planning Director Kaufman shared the
contents of the staff report provided to Council in
their packets. The architect for the proposed project
came forward and provided additional information about
the project. Planning Director Kaufman then responded
to Council inquiries.
2. PUBLIC HEARING: Mayor Mackenzie.OPENED the public
hearing at 10:59 p.m. There being no one desiring to
speak, the Mayor CLOSED the public hearing at
10:59 P.M.
3. Council.discussion / action:
Resolution for adoption:
20.01 -24 CERTIFYING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND APPROVING
AN. AMENDMENT, :OF THE GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP
AND: ARCHITECTURAL AND SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR A
16' -UNIT APARTMENT PROJECT ON A .76 ACRE SITE
LOCATED ON THE NORTHERLY SIDE OF EAST COTATI
AVENUE, WEST OF CAMINO COLEGIO AT 1399 EAST
COTATI .AVENUE (P &Z FILE NO. 1904 - BIJAN.
MADJLESSI /MASMA::CONSTRUCTION)
and
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert -Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(13)
Ordinance for introduction:
No. 662 REZONING ONE (1) PARCEL TOTALING .76 ACRES,
LOCATED ON THE NORTHERLY SIDE OF EAST COTATI
AVENUE AND WEST OF CAMINO COLEGIO (1399 EAST
COTATI AVENUE), AND MORE PRECISELY KNOWN AS
ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 143 - 340 -020, FROM
LIMITED COMMERCIAL: PLANNED DEVELOPMENT,
COMBINING DISTRICT (C -L: P -P) TO MULTI - FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT, COMBINING
DISTRICT (R- M:2000:P -D)
FOR THE RECORD, Mayor Mackenzie expressed concern
regarding the opposition to the previous project, a
Burbank Housing Scattered Site Project, in the same
vicinity. He noted that a lawsuit was brought against
the project by people associated with the apartment units
behind the proposed project. He indicated that the
Council chambers were full of people opposed to the
project, particularly C and M Section people, who
complained of the impact of the project on schools and
traffic. He pointed out that not one resident was present
this evening to raise any concerns over this project,
noting that this was not a reflection on the new
project. Finally, he said that he was upset as far as
what the Council had to go through in regards to the
Burbank Housing Scattered Site Project, and he stated that
he would be voting in favor of the project in front of the
Council this evening.
Council CONCURRED with Mayor Makcenzie's comments.
Council discussion concluded, and upon MOTION by
Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Vice Mayor Flores,
Resolution No. 2001 -24 for adoption and Ordinance
No. 662 for introduction were UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
14. GENERAL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM - MATTERS RELATED
TO THE GENERAL PLAN PROCESS, IF ANY:
1. Staff Update - Status Report on General Plan
Implementation and the Wilfred - Dowdell Specific Plan:
Planning Director Kaufman directed the Councilmembers to
her memos on the Joint City Council /Planning Commission
Meeting.
2. Joint City Council /Planning Commission Meeting on
proposed ordinances for Growth Management and Mobile
Home Park Conversion - UPDATE:
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(14)
After a brief Council discussion, Council CONCURRED to
tentatively schedule the joint meeting on February 15,
2001, pending Planning Director Kaufman checking with the
School District for a location for the meeting.
15. CONCEPTUAL WORK PROGRAM FOR COUNTYWIDE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING FUNDING STRATEGY - PROPOSED COUNTY WIDE NEXUS
STUDY SUBMITTED BY ECONOMIC & PLANNING SYSTEMS:
City Manager Netter gave a brief report on this matter,
and upon MOTION by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilmember Vidak- Martinez, a motion to allocate the
monies for this project was UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED.
16. BUDGET MATTERS:
1. Results of Budget /Six -Month Financial Review Workshop:
Mayor Mackenzie indicated that this item will be DEFERRED
to the February 13, 2001, Council meeting as there was not
enough time for the review workshop earlier this evening.
17. TRANSPORTATION MATTERS:
1. Sonoma County Transportation Authority, 1/22/01
meeting:
Mayor Mackenzie named the new Chair and Vice Chair. He
reported that he is now an alternate to the Executive
Committee. As a member of the Ad Hoc Transportation
Committee, Mayor Mackenzie further reported that a
working group will be put together to bring together all
parties involved in transportation issues in Sonoma
County to try to work out a mutually acceptable approach
to implementing the countywide, multi -modal transportation
plan. Councilmember Reilly SUGGESTED that Mayor Mackenzie
identify and try to represent, at the Ad Hoc meetings, the
30* -n1us voters whn vnterl �InnI, nn si mi l ar trancr�nrt at; nn
L --
measures in Alameda and Santa Clara Counties.
2. Department of Transportation - Widening of U.S. Highway
101 Wilfred to Highway 12 - Status:
Mayor Mackenzie reported on two matters: (1) Bids will go
out on January 31, 2001, for this project; (2) Work will
begin in the spring, probably late May or early June..
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(15)
18. MOBILE HOME PARK MATTERS:
*Staff update on meeting with Millennium Housing /Las
Casitas Purchase: City Manager Netter shared the
contents of the staff report, and he noted that
staff will be meeting with Millennium Housing on
Thursday, January 25, 2001. He RECOMMENDED that
a City Council and Mobile Home Park Subcommittee
meeting be set up shortly after the staff meeting
with Millennium Housing.
19. COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND /OR OTHER REPORTS:
Mayor Mackenzie asked Vice Mayor Flores to share his
report on the Library Steering Committee. Vice Mayor
Flores DISTRIBUTED copies of a letter from the Library
Steering Committee to the Accounting Conunission, urging
them to carefully review the candidates to replace the
retiring Library Director, Roger Pearson. The Vice Mayor
reminded the Council that the person selected will be
important to the City's new library project.
1. Mayors' & Councilmembers' Association, 1/11/01
meeting: Mayor Mackenzie reported on three matters:
(1) Nexus report was brought forward; (2) Next
Executive meeting will be on Thursday, February 8,
2001; (3) Councilmember Vidak- Martinez appointed
to Airport Land Use Commission.
2. Mayors' & Councilmembers' Association - Water Task
Force 1/18/01 meeting: Councilmember Vidak- Martinez
reported on two matters: (1) The Urban Water
Management Plan was presented. She SUGGESTED that
staff take a look at it and decide if Rohnert Park
should become a member; (2) A handout entitled,
"Best Management Practices for Urban Water
Conservation," was shared. Mayor Mackenzie gave a
brief update on the status of Amendment 11 between
the water contractors and SCWA.
3. Garbage Committee report:
*Reschedule meeting proposed for January 30, 2001, to
Monday, January 29, 2001: Mayor Mackenzie reported
that the proposed meeting for January 29, 2001, has
been moved to the February 13, 2001, City Council
meeting.
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park
January 23, 2001
20. COMMUNICATIONS:
*CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
Page(16)
Communications per the attached outline were brought to
the attention of the City Council.
*Vice Mayor Flores directed Councilmembers to Item No. 10
regarding the funding of a tutorial program at the new
library. The Council AGREED to support the tutorial
program. Council also DIRECTED City Manager Netter to
write a letter indicating that the funding responsibility
for such a program belongs to the School District.
*City Manager Netter directed
request from the Association
Rohnert Park for the Council
With the exception of vested
Reilly, the Council AGREED t,
discussion.
Council to Item No. 26, a
of Retired Employees of
to appoint a subcommittee.
Councilmembers Spiro and
D AGENDIZE this matter for
21. MATTERS FROM /FOR COUNCIL:
1. North California Power Association - Municipal
Utility - Join JPA: Council CONCURRED TO AGENDIZE this
matter for a full discussion. Councilmember Reilly
SUGGESTED that the City Manager locate the materials
from past discussions about purchasing the utilities.
2. Joint Meetings with other agencies: City of Santa Rosa
County Board of Supervisors, Sonoma State University,
and Cotati.- Rohnert Park Unified School District:
Mayor Mackenzie DEFERRED this item due to the lateness
of the hour, and he ASKED that the City of Cotati be
added to the Joint Meetings.
3. Other: Senior Citizen Commission: Vice Mayor Flores
reported on two matters from the most recent meeting
of the Senior Citizen Commission: (1) The new Senior
Cciiter Sigh iS completed, an Coui� wie itlled ii ii btofd
of the installation date; (2) The Senior Citizen
Commission will again be sponsoring a Super Bowl Party
on January 28, 2001, at 2:00 p.m. at the Senior Center.
22. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
1. AT &T - Audit of Rate Increase - Join with other cities:
City Manager Netter gave Council a brief update on the
rate review of AT &T, and he referred Councilmembers
to the materials provided in the Council packet.
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES
January 23, 2001 Page(17)
2. Other: February 13, 2001 City Council meeting: City
Manager Netter asked if the Council could start the
February 13, 2001, meeting at an earlier hour. Council
AGREED to try to start the meeting at 5:00 p.m., and
Mayor Mackenzie indicated that the matter will be
discussed at the first meeting of the Executive
Subcommittee.
23. OTHER UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
At this time, Mayor Mackenzie called forward any citizens
wishing to speak. No one responded.
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further business, Mayor Mackenzie
ADJOURNED the meeting at approximately 11:28 p.m.
Katy Leonard,
Certified Shorthand Reporter
CSR No. 11599
Jak Mackenzie, —�
Mayor
City of Rohnert Park
*City Council /Community Development Commission/
Rohnert Park Financing Authority