1992/09/08 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
September 8, 1992
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
Spiro presiding.
CALL TO ORDER Mayor Spiro called the regular session to order at
approximately 6:25 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
Mayor Spiro advised that a closed session commenced this
evening at 6:00 p.m. to discuss litigation matters and
personnel matters. She said no action was taken and there was
nothing to report at this time.
ROLL CALL Present: (5) Councilmembers Eck, Hollingsworth, Hopkins,
Reilly, and Mayor Spiro
Absent: (0) None
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager
Netter, City Attorney Flitner, Assistant to the City Manager
Leivo, Planning Director Skanchy, Director of Public
Works /City Engineer Brust and Community Resource Specialist
Vander Vennet.
Approval of Minutes Upon motion by Councilmember Hollingsworth, seconded by
Councilmember Eck, with the exception of Mayor Spiro
abstaining due to absence from the meeting, the minutes of
August 25, 1992 were unanimously approved as submitted.
Approval of Bills Upon motion by Councilmember Hollingsworth, seconded by
Councilmember Hopkins, and unanimously approved, the
bills presented per the attached list in the amount of
$824,755.58 were approved. CDA bills presented per the
attached list in the amount of $49,206.11 were approved.
Non - agendaed Mayor Spiro queried if any Councilmember had any non- agendaed
Matters items to add to the agenda.
Councilman Eck said he had one miscellaneous item to add.
Councilman Hollingsworth said he also had one miscellaneous
item to add.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) September 8, 1992
Unscheduled Mayor Spiro stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown Act),
Public anyone in the audience who wished to make a comment may do so at this
Appearances time. In most cases under legislation of the new Brown Act, the
Council cannot handle an item without agendizing. To ensure accurate
recording, "Speaker Cards" are provided at the entrance of the Chamber
and unscheduled public appearances are requested to fill out the cards
and present to recording clerk after speaking.
Jake Mackenzie, 1536 Gladstone Way, said his comments would be dealing with sewer
capacity items which were scheduled to be reviewed later on tonight's
agenda. He reviewed comments in items 11 and 12 of the Council
Meeting Memo and said the request to the City of Santa Rosa for
additional sewer capacity that would bring Rohnert Park's m.g.d
(million gallons per day) up to 9.979 would increase the City's
population by approximately 8,400. Mr. Mackenzie referenced the
figures in the report for Remaining Wastewater Capacity Based on 1991
Average Dry Weather Flow (Estimated) and said these numbers
represented smaller increments than previous estimates. Mr.
Mackenzie referenced statements by Santa Rosa City officials, and
stated further that with the current budget complexities, the
situation is even more uncertain. It appears the City may have the
ability to reserve capacity for future growth, such as Cannon Manor,
Sonoma State University, Hewlett Packard, etc. Mc. Mackenzie further
stated that all of these factors would seem to argue for taking
another step back to the original approach of considering everything
at one time. Because of these various factors, it would seem
appropriate to look at the City as a whole, wastewater capacity as a
whole, and not look at annexation piecemeal.
C O N S E N T C A L E N D A R
Mayor Spiro queried if anyone had any questions regarding the matters
on the Consent Calendar which were explained in the City Manager's
Council Nbeting Memo.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the
agenda.
Resolution
No. 92 -148 A RESOLUTION OF RESPECT FOR MILTON M. HUDIS
Resolution A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
No. 92 -149 PROCLAIMING THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 17 THROUGH 23 AS "CONSTITUTION WEEK"
Resolution A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
No. 92 -150 AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH SOURCE CODE ESCROW AS
ESCROW AGENT FOR SELECT TICKETING SYSTEMS SOFTWARE PROGRAM AT THE
DOROTHY ROHNERT SPRECKELS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) September 8, 1992
Resolution A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING CONll'LETION AND DIRECTING CITY ENGINEER TO FILE
No. 92 -151 NOTICE OF CONPLETION, ALICIA PARK LIGHTING INpROVENENTS, PROJECT
NO. 1990 -5
Upon motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember
Hollingsworth, the Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's
agenda was unanimously approved.
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING CHAPTER 17 OF THE
No. 564 ROHNERT PARK M.JNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING FIVE OR LESS MECHANICAL AND
ELECTRONIC PLAY DEVICES AS A PERMITTED USE IN ALL COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
AND BY REQUIRING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR 6 OR MDRE MECHANICAL AND
ELECTRONIC PLAY DEVICES IN ALL CON42CIAL DISTRICTS
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING CHAPTER 9.28
No. 565 MECHANICAL AND ELECTRONIC PLAY DEVICES BY DELETING CERTAIN SECTIONS
City Manager Netter explained Ordinance Nos. 564 and 565, as reviewed
in the Council Meeting Memo. Said ordinances were introduced at the
previous Council meeting.
Upon motion by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman
Reilly, and unanimously approved, reading of Ordinance Nos. 564 and
565 was waived and said ordinances were consecutively adopted.
Scheduled Public Appearance:
City Attorney Flitner responded to Council inquiry pertaining to
Councilmember's daughter playing on the softball team referenced in
the next item on tonight's agenda, that it would not be a conflict of
interest to participate in Council decision regarding this matter.
Mark Alton, Softball Coach at Rancho Cotate High School, informed Council that the
Rancho Cotate High School Softball Team won its third championship in
this year's softball tournaments. He requested Council to continue
its tradition of co- sponsoring the championship plaques at 50% of the
costs which amounts to approximately $250.
Discussion followed during which City Manager Netter responded to
Council inquiry that this request had not been referred to the Parks
and Recreation Commission in the past, because it has been Council
tradition to split the cost of the championship plaques with the
School District.
A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman.
Reilly, and unanimously approved, to pay up to $250 for the City's
half of sponsorship for championship plaques for the Rancho Cotate
High School softball team.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) September 8, 1992
Brent Powell - City Manager Netter said time was allotted on the Council agenda to
Recognition recognize the efforts of Brent Powell, a Rohnert Park Boy Scout
working on his Eagle Scout Badge, in his leadership and coordination
of 20 -plus teens /scouts to deliver 10,000 water conservation kits to
approximately 5,000 single family homes in the City. The City would
like to acknowledge Brent Powell and other members of the Boy Scouts
and volunteer teens for this very worthwhile. City Manager Netter
said Brent Powell recently moved out of state with his family and
recommended that an appropriate letter of recognition and appreciation
be written over the Mayor's signature.
Discussion followed during which Councilman Hollingsworth commended
the above- reviewed efforts. He said he would also like to commend
City Employees who were called over the week end to participate in the
necessary distribution of the water conservation kits from the
warehouse, and complimented them for their cooperation and assistance.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Reilly,
and unanimously approved, to prepare a letter of recognition over the
Mayor's signature as reviewed above to Brent Powell.
Chamber of Commerce Agreement:
City Manager Netter shared comments as reviewed in the Council Nbeting
Memo pertaining to certain modifications to the existing agreement
with the Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce as discussed recently when
City Manager and Council Liaison Member Eck met with the President and
Executive Director of the Chamber. Due to efforts involved for the
upcoming Crane Melon Festival, the Executive Director of the Chamber
has been unable to meet with City Nianager and Councilman Hollingsworth
as decided during the above - referenced meeting. Said meeting will be
scheduled sometime within the next two weeks, therefore, this item
will need to be carried over to the next Council meeting.
Discussion followed during which Council Liaison Member Eck said
financing and lighting for the Holiday trees were discussed at the
above - mentioned preliminary meeting. Consideration was given to
several ideas that could help cut costs, such as exploring the
possibility of new, permanent -type bulb replacements, as well as
consideration of an adopt -a -tree program. City Manager Netter said
donating of the lifts to install the lights was also mentioned.
Concerns were expressed regarding the dangers connected with operating
the lift equipment, as well as the Chamber's concerns regarding the
insurance requirements. Council Liaison Member Eck said the Chamber
understands the Council's desire not to eliminate the Holiday tree
lights, but to attempt to work out a plan to save costs.
Comnmity Outreach for Youth & Families (COYF) Programs:
City Manager Netter said copies were provided to Council of staff
report dated September 3, 1992 with related attachments from Cormunity
Resource Specialist Kathy Vander Vennet regarding an update on the
various Comrunity Outreach For Youth & Families (COYF) programs, as
outlined on tonight's Council meeting agenda.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (5) September 8, 1992
1) Updatre of Programs
Comnmity Resource Specialist Vander Vennet reviewed contents of her
above - referenced report, distributed to Council a list of groups that
utilize the COYF facility, and responded to various Council questions.
She said the original goals of COYF have been accomplished since its
inception three years ago. Even though the COYF Committee is no
longer meeting formally, members have signified interest to continue
meeting on a quarterly basis. City Manager Netter commented that the
success of COYF has generated interest in other programs such as the
Boys & Girls Club, joint efforts with SCAYD and a successful Healthy
Cities Project and programs.
Discussion followed during which Ms. Vander Vennet responded to
further Council questions confirming that comment cards are on file
from directors of groups that use the COYF building and that a similar
procedure could be used to obtain an evaluation of program attendees.
Council concerns were expressed regarding the possibility of certain
organizations ceasing because of lack of funds due to the State budget
crisis. Council suggestion was made that COYF should consider
including more experts on the committee, so it could take off on short
notice if the State funding cuts do cause a problem with the provision
of some of these needs. Ms. Vander Vennet responded to Council
inquiry regarding the information referrals that phone calls come in
on a regular basis and, after school starts, such calls are even more
constant because of referrals from teachers, principals and counselors
since they have the available program information. She said the
effort is a constant update procedure.
2) League of California Cities meeting = eH althy Cities Award
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
memorandum dated September 3, 1992 from California Healthy Cities
Project regarding Charter Cities Awards Press Release. He said the
Healthy Cities Award to Rohnert Park will be presented at the League
of California Cities meeting in Los Angeles on October 12, 1992 and
plans are made at this time for Vice Mayor Hollingsworth to attend
that meeting and accept the award on behalf of the City.
3) Proposed Healthy Cities Project 1992 -93
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of 1992 -93
City Renewal Application for California Healthy Cities Project for the
City of Rohnert Park with attached resolution for consideration
regarding same. He said the above- referenced staff report provided
details for Council's information regarding this matter.
Community Resource Specialist Vander Vennet shared contents of her
staff report mentioned above regarding reasons the City should
continue with this project and the steering committee's desire to take
the three pronged approach as outlined.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (6) September 8, 1992
Resolution A RESOLUTION APPROVING A RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR THE CALIFORNIA
No. 92 -152 HEALTHY CITIES PROJECT (1992 -1993) AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MUNAGER TO
EXECUTE SAME
Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and
unanimously approved, reading of Resolution No. 92 -152 was waived and
said resolution was adopted.
Planning and Zoning matters:
1) File No.1563 - Planning Director Skanchy referenced copies provided to Council of
Staff Report dated July 15, 1992 and shared contents therein, as
reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo, regarding File No. 1563 which
amends Section 17.08.160 of the Rohnert Park Minicipal Code pertaining
to location and height of fences on corner lots in residential
districts. He said a public hearing had been duly noticed and
scheduled for the previous Council meeting, but because of a lack of
quorum, was carried over to tonight's Council meeting. Mr. Skanchy
said the City has received no verbal or written comments pertaining to
this matter. Copies of the ordinance for introduction were also
provided for Council's consideration.
Public Mayor Spiro opened the public hearing at approximately 6:54 p.m.
Hearing There being no one desiring to speak, Mayor Spiro closed the
public hearing.
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING CHAPTER 17 OF THE
No. 566 ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE BY MODIFYING THE LOCATION HEIGHT OF
FENCES, WALLS AND HEDGES ON EXTERIOR SIDEYARDS
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman
Hollingsworth, and unanimously approved, reading_ of Ordinance No. 566
was waived and said ordinance was introduced.
2) Roofing City Manager Netter said the Planning Commission reviewed policies and
Standards procedures on roof replacements in residential subdivisions, as
previously requested by Council. He shared comments as reviewed in
the Council Meeting Memo regarding public hearings held by the
Planning Comnission and the Planning Commission's recommendation to
Council to adopt a policy discouraging the use of wooden shingles on
new and existing construction, and that minimum standards be adopted
for composition roofing at Architectural Grade 30 or better. Mr.
Netter said copies were provided to Council of Planning Commission
Resolution No. 92 -11 regarding same. He said this item was scheduled
on tonight's agenda for discussion purposes and for Council policy
direction. The. suggestion was made that replacement of roofs follow
the CC&R's, but the City does not enforce local CC&R's.
Planning Director Skanchy displayed several roofing material sanples
with cost comparisons, that could be used in lieu of wood shakes. He
responded to various Council questions pertaining to the above -
referenced Planning Commission meeting and public hearings.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) September 8, 1992
Discussion followed during which comparisons were made to the new
roofing materials and original wood shakes. Councilman Hollingsworth
said from a professional standpoint, there is no more danger
concerning fires from wood shakes or tile roofs, as confirmed by the
results of the recent Oakland fire. He said it is a misnomer that the
wood shakes burn faster and no one is charged higher insurance rates
for having wood shakes. Planning Director Skanchy reviewed the
various fire ratings for shingles as explained by the roofing
representative, Mr. Dennis Jadfeld of Security Roofing and outlined in
the above- referenced Planning Commission resolution.
Further discussion followed during which additional comparisons were
made to standard roofing requirements, consideration was given to the
possibility of scheduling a presentation by a roofing representative,
and confirmation was made regarding the need to retain the integrity
of entire neighborhoods. Council concluded that it is not yet ready
to adopt a policy for roofing standards. Planning Director Skanchy
confirmed that the Planning Department is starting to receive quite a
few inquiries from residents regarding the need to upgrade roofs due
to the age of many homes in Rohnert Park now exceeding 15 years old.
Councilman Hollingsworth accepted the Mayor's appointment as Council
Liaison to meet with staff regarding further review of this matter and
bring possible roofing recommendations back to Council at a later date
3) Mobile Home Relocation Protection Ordinance:
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
memorandum dated September 4, 1992 from City Attorney Flitner
regarding Mobilehome park conversion, change of use or cessation of
use ordinance with attached ordinance for possible introduction. He
shared contents therein as reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo and
said the ordinance could be introduced tonight with a public hearing
regarding same scheduled at the next Council meeting.
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK PROVIDING NHNIM -M STANDARDS
No. 567 AND REQUIRENENTS FOR THE CONVERSION OR CHANGE OF USE OF NDBILEHONE
PARKS WITHIN THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
Upon motion by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman
Hopkins, and unanimously approved, reading of Ordinance No. 567 was
waived and said ordinance was introduced.
Water /Wastewater Conservation Fee:
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of staff
report dated September 2, 1992 with related attachments from Director
of Public Works /City Engineer Brust regarding the establishment of a
Water/Wastewater Conservation fee. He said an ordinance has been
drafted for Council's consideration and staff recommends introduction
of the ordinance at tonight's Council meeting with public hearing
scheduled during the next Council meeting of September 22, 1992. He
confirmed that the fee amounts would be established by resolution and
would be amnded from time to time to reflect cost chancres.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (8) September 8, 1992
City Engineer Brust shared contents of the above - referenced staff
report regarding Water/Wastewater Conservation Fee as reviewed in the
Council Meeting Memo, explained the draft ordinance relating to same,
and responded to various Council questions.
Discussion followed.
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK ESTABLISHING A
No. 568 WATER/WASTEWATER CONSERVATION FEE
Upon motion by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman
Hopkins, and unanimously approved, reading of Ordinance No. 568 was
waived and said ordinance was introduced.
Santa Rosa Subregional Sewerage System:
1) State Department of Healt Services jDHSI Notice of change for
discharge requirements - City Manager Netter said copies were provided
to Council of staff report dated September 2, 1992 with various
related attachments from Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust
regarding the notice of change from the State Department of Health
Services (DHS) pertaining to discharge requirements.
City Engineer Brust referenced recent Press Democrat article regarding
this matter, shared contents of his above- referenced staff report as
reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo, and responded to Council
questions regarding same.
Discussion followed during which City Engineer Brust confirmed there
is no proposed or anticipated change in the long -term plan for
wastewater reclamation by the City of Santa Rosa at this time. Santa
Rosa is still pursuing the West County Plan and will do so until
official changes are implemented by the Water Quality Control Board
(WQCB). Council comments included reference to Santa Rosa going on
record about seven years ago regarding commitment to the Russian River
residents, that it would be more responsible to acquire areas of open
space for the purpose of pursuing irrigation as the major disposal
system with the back up of the Russian River for emergency discharge
times (similar to an acre for acre idea). Concluding Council comrents
signified designating the referenced West County area as comrunity
separator whereby City Manager Netter and Council Liaison Eck could
work with David Hansen, General Manager /Open Space District regarding
proposed language for same.
2) Lette reauest to City of Santa Rosa for a portion of declined
sewer ca cit - City N1anager Netter said copies were provided to
Council of letter dated August 19, 1992, with attached backup
material, to the City of Santa Rosa requesting a portion of additional
sewer capacity resulting from Sebastopol and South Park declining
capacity expansion. He shared comwnts as reviewed in the Council
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) September 8, 1992
Meeting Memo and said Councilman Eck requested a report on this item
at the previous Council meeting. City Manager Netter and City
Engineer Brust responded to various Council questions regarding this
matter pointing out that the referenced sewer capacity expansion
figures include not only the City of Rohnert Park, but the City of
Cotati, Sonoma State University and possibly the Cannon Manor area.
Reference was also made to the General Plan Committee consideration of
a proposal to Hewlett Packard regarding its surrounding land. The
additional information provided to Council shows why staff recommends
securing the 2.139 m.g.d. additional capacity for the City.
Discussion followed.
Rohnert Park Sewer Capacity Report 1992:
1) Estimated Dry Weather Flows and remainina sewer ca city - City
Engineer Brust said staff has received preliminary reports from the
City of Santa Rosa on the Estimated Dry Weather Flows for 1992. He
referenced copies provided to Council of staff report pertaining to
these figures showing calculations supporting an additional 157 units
based on existing flows, anticipated flows from projects, and
developments currently under construction in both residential and
commercial projects. He also reviewed contents of copies provided to
Council of staff report regarding Residential Construction /1988 -1992
and responded to various Council questions pertaining to both reports.
2) Proposed Bui ldi n Permit Allocations for 1992 -93 - City Manager
Netter referenced copies provided to Council of letter dated July 29,
1992 from Randall Group requesting sewer allocations to complete
remaining 136 units for its Windsong Condominium Project. Mr. Netter
shared comments as reviewed in the Council Nbeting Nbmo pertaining to
the phases of development for this project which consisted of
460 units, and further reviewed the minimal remaining residential
developments within the city limits as reflected in the above staff
report regarding Residential Construction /1988 -1992. He said copies
were also provided to Council regarding Windsong sales information
with attached floor plans, as well as Windsong rental rates for the
various floor plans confirming comparable affordable housing rates. He
referenced plans on display to describe the Windsong Project, with
changes from original plans that have resulted in decreasing the
remaining units from 156 to 136, and said Randall Group is now
requesting the remaining sewer allotments to complete its project.
City Manager Netter said staff recommends approval of the 136 units
subject to the usual site plan and architectural approval conditions.
He introduced Mark Morgan, California Regional Manager of Randall
Group who was present at tonight's Council meeting to further review
this request and respond to Council questions.
Discussion followed during which Randall Group Regional Manager Mark
Nbrgan and City Manager Netter responded to various Council questions
pertaining to the completion of the Windsong Condominium Project.
Confirmation was given that this project qualifies for both affordable
housing programs in which the City is participating, namely, the
Mortgage Credit Certification (MCC) Program and the Northbay
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (10) September 8, 1992
Ecumenical Housing (NEH) affordable home ownership loan program. Mr.
Nbrgan said he is not currently involved in the sales of the condos
since the Randall Group is primarily an apartment building company,
but understood that qualifying for the affordable housing programs is
the strong selling point for the condos.
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman Eck,
to approve the 1992 -93 building permit allocation program as
submitted, including 136 units of Windsong Project subject to site
plan and other conditions as required by the Planning Commission, was
unanimously approved.
RECESS Mayor Spiro declared a recess at approximately 8:05 p.m.
RECONVENE Mayor Spiro reconvened the Council meeting at approximately 8:15 p.m.
with all Councilmembers present.
State Budget Update /Impacts on Rohnert Park Budget:
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
information from League of California Cities pertaining to the State
Budget crisis including letter dated September 2, 1992 and Legislative
Bulletin #32 -1992. He shared contents therein pointing out that the
most recent information received from the Legislative Bulletin
regarding irrpacts on Rohnert Park with a total revenue loss amounting
to $758,200. This amount was only slightly off the figures provided
in the Council meeting packets, as reviewed in the Council Nbeting
Memo. City Manager Netter further explained the information provided
in the Legislative Bulletin regarding SB 617 and SB 844 which are the
budget "trailer bills" that implement State budget actions to take
said funds from local government agencies. Mr. Netter reviewed
details contained therein regarding City Revenue losses from Property
Tax, Cigarette Tax, Trailer Coach In -Lieu Fees, and Redevelopment
and responded to various Council questions regarding same.
Discussion followed during which concerns were expressed regarding the
possibility that the proposed animal shelter be deferred because of
the State "hit" on redevelopment funds in excess of a half a million
dollars. Suggestion was made regarding pursuit of possible
alternatives to finance the animal shelter. City Attorney Flitner
responded to Council question that the City is not obligated to accept
bids on projects even if funds are available, therefore, there is no
liability at risk for the City regarding the bid process for the
animal shelter. Further Council comments included the need for
continued caution pertaining to budget items because of the
possibility for further and similar cuts next year.
Council concurred to cancel the previously scheduled tour of
Kelly Farms wastewater reclamation site prior to the next Council
meeting and schedule a Budget Work Session at 5:00 p . m. on September
22nd, 1992, immediately preceding the next Council meeting, to
discuss options.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) September 8, 1992
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) Councilman Hopkins said there were many bills that have probably
been passed to which Council should have expressed opposition,
however, he recommended writing letters asking Governor Wilson to veto
bills the League of California Cities has asked to be vetoed as listed
in the Legislative Bulletin on tonight's Communication List. City
Manager Netter said a single letter listing the bills recommended for
Governor Wilson's veto would be drafted.
2) Councilman Hollingsworth confirmed that Legislators are going to
add another tax to insurance policies. He said another issue is
regarding a retroactive fee for California earthquake insurance that
is going to be repealed, so no one will get their $61 back after
paying the charge. Each industry is getting a similar sting related
to such Legislative actions regarding revenues.
3) Councilman Eck brought to Council's attention a letter from the
City of Sonoma to Senator Mike Thompson regarding his efforts that
were key to the defeat of SB 797.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Reilly, to
send a letter to Senator Thompson, Senator Kopp and Senator Keene
regarding their efforts in the defeat of SB 797 (Becky Morgan Bill),
and approved by the following vote:
AYES: (4) Councilman Eck, Hollingsworth, Reilly and
Mayor Spiro
NOES: (1) Councilman Hopkins
ABSENT: (0) None
Councilman Hopkins expressed disagreement with the above motion and
said SB 797 was just a study bill and not the final product. He said
Senator Quinton Kopp also voted against this bill, but Santa Clara
County is going to be initiating a lawsuit on the one -man /one -vote and
when Santa Clara gets one vote proportionately, everyone will think
SB 797 was simple compared to what's coming.
Councilman Eck compared the issue with the implementation of Bay
Vision 2020 and said we won at least once and thought we could
continue to win other issues. He said he was not going to concede to
the fact just because of a lawsuit.
4) City Manager Netter referenced item No. 11 on the Communications
List from Gardner Homes on affordable housing projects. City Council
concurred that if the Housing Task Force desires to hear a
presentation from Gardner Homes, then one could be scheduled.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (12) September 8, 1992
5) Councilman Reilly referenced letter from Sasha Snyder, "Youth of
the Year" entry to Clarion Reporter Anne Rasmussen responding to the
question, "If I were a member of the City Council I would work
toward..." Mr. Reilly said, as Council Liaison for the Library, he
would like to bring Council's attention to Sasha Snyder's letter
because of her comments that a good library is one of a city's most
important institutions. Her letter listed the various reasons for
having an adequate library. Councilman Reilly also indicated he
felt that a neighborhood advisory board to receive input may be
worth considering.
City Manager's Report:
1) City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of his
memo dated September 3, 1992 regarding Special Meeting of the Sonoma
County Home Financing Authority Relative to the 1984 Home INbrtgage
Revenue Bonds. He shared contents therein and said this report was
provided for Council's information. He said an update would be made
once the Bond Attorneys submitted information on how the excess funds
could be used.
2) Animal Shelter Site - City Manager Netter informed Council that
both he and City Attorney Flitner have been working with Maurice
Fredericks, Attorney for Paul Golis, on the final wording of the docu-
ment to be recorded to remove the alleged reversionary clause on that
portion of a site owned by the City of Rohnert Park adjacent to the
sewer ponds. City Attorney Flitner commented that he had submitted,
through W. Maurice Fredericks, the revised wording and is waiting to
receive a response back from Mr. Paul Golis. Mr. Flitner indicated he
would continue to pursue this matter but did not feel he should
counter his own language but should wait to hear back from Mr. Golis.
City Manager indicated that if the site was not secured, then the City
would have three options, i.e., (1) challenge the alleged reversionary
clause, (2) consider condemnation of that portion of the site for the
new animal shelter, or (3) move the animal shelter to an alternate
site. If the animal shelter is moved to an alternate site, it may
increase the cost of the project as the bids that will be received on
the 15th are based on the site in question. Staff will update the
Council as this proceeds further.
3) Dedication of New Public Safety Facility - City Manager Netter
recommended that the dedication and grand opening ceremonies of the
new Public Safety Facility be postponed until early spring of 1993.
He indicated that several punch list items still had to be completed,
one of which is the paneling in the lobby area. If the City continues
with its opening in October, this work might not be complete. Mr.
Netter indicated that he felt it would be better in early spring, as
the entire landscaping would be completed, as well as most of the bugs
would be ironed out for the Public Safety's operation. It was the
consensus of Council that the dedication /opening ceremony be held in
early spring sometime during the months of April or May, depending
upon the weather conditions at that time.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) September 8, 1992
4) Open Space District & Acquisition Plan Map - City Manager Netter
commented briefly on the upcoming approval of the Open Space and Agri-
cultural District's approval of the Acquisition Plan. He commented on
the Priority 1, Priority 2 and Priority 3 designations on said map.
Mr. Netter indicated that the City is currently doing a General Plan
Update that may modify those areas as designated on the map. He said
it may be a good idea to send a letter to David Hansen, General
Manager of the Open Space District and indicate that a General Plan
Update is being completed, which may modify those areas to the west
and east of town. Councilman Eck indicated that he is a member on the
Acquisition Plan Committee and, that the controlling document is
Sonoma County's General Plan, including its open space and community
separator designations. He feels that once the City's General Plan is
adopted, that the County's General Plan would have to be amended to
conform with the City's plan which would then modify the Open Space
District's Acquisition Plan Map. It was still felt that sending a
letter to David Hansen, regarding the City's General Plan Update and
how that may affect the open space areas, was appropriate.
5 ) Rancho Felis Mobile Home meeting - City Manager Netter indicated
that he had talked with the management of Rancho Felis Mobile Home
Park regarding the possibility of purchase of that park so that the
spaces could then be owned by the residents. Mr. Netter indicated
that Steve Sherwood, the owner, and John Turzer, the Vice President of
Rancho Felis Associates, would be in town on Thursday and inquired if
the Council Committee of Councilman Eck and Councilman Reilly would be
available to meet. Councilman Reilly indicated that he would be out
of town on business, but Councilman Eck said he would be available.
City Manager Netter indicated that he would set up the meeting with
Councilman Eck, City Manager Netter, Steve Sherwood and John Turzer to
discuss this matter further. In addition, City Manager Netter
indicated that management at Rancho Felis would let the City know what
would be a good time and date for the City Council to meet with Rancho
Felis regarding the possible sale of Rancho Felis, so that the home
owners could buy their own spaces.
6) City Manager Netter indicated that he would be out of town from
September the 14th through September the 18th, 1992 on an Inter-
national City Manager's Association (ICMA) meeting being held in Reno.
City Attorney's Report:
1) City Attorney Flitner referenced Roberts vs. City of Rohnert Park
and said he thought the case was settled. The documents have been
submitted to their counsel for approval. City Engineer Brust received
some minor comments today that should be resolved by Thursday of
this week.
2) City Attorney Flitner said the Burnham matter was settled. Her
attorneys dropped the case with prejudice, so the matter is now
behind us.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (14) September 8, 1992
Matters from Council:
1) City Manager Netter advised, for informational purposes, that there
will be a Barbecue at Rogers Ranch on Saturday, September 12th, 1992
from 4:00 p.m. to midnight, to benefit cancer care programs at
Petaluma Valley Hospital.
2) City Manager Netter said the Tour of Kelly Farms wastewater
reclamation site previously planned at 3:30 p.m. on September 22nd,
1992 will be rescheduled due to the Budget Work Session set for
5:00 p.m. on that date. When a time and date has been set for the
tour of the Kelly Farms, City Manager will inform Council.
3) Santa Rosa Homeless Center - Councilman Eck comnented on the Santa
Rosa Homeless Shelter and indicated that it was a very worthwhile
venture. He recommended that the City call Santa Rosa and get a copy
of its resource list which could be used by the Comnmity Outreach
for Youth and Family programs. City Manager indicated that he
would follow up with the appropriate staff member to access this
resource list.
3) For Council's information, the Mayors & Councilmembers'
Association meeting will be held on Thursday, September 10, 1992 at
Matuszek's Restaurant in Healdsburg.
5) Councilman Hollingsworth said with school starting he would like
to see further action taken toward the enforcement of bike helmets,
and wondered whether the City could mandate the use of helmets on
bicycle riders. City Manager Netter indicated that this item was
discussed several months ago and letters were sent to the School
District and Department of Public Safety to initiate an aggressive
bicycle safety education program. The School District has agreed and
is working with Public Safety toward this endeavor. City Council
concurred that this bicycle safety program should be of the highest
priority, and that efforts to mandate the use of helmets should be
done on the State level. Also discussed was the possibility of
submitting educational flyers in the City's utility bills by
designating "A Bicycle Helmet Month ".
6) Mayor Spiro commented on Code 3, Police Pursuits, and indicated
the officer should be extra cautious because some of the vehicles'
location of the red lights are not as conspicuous as the traditional
light bars on police vehicles. Councilman Reilly indicated that the
training of the Public Safety Officers should included procedures when
approaching intersections to avoid potential accidents.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (15) September 8, 1992
Unscheduled
Public Mayor Spiro asked if anyone in the audience wished to make an
Appearances appearance at this time.
Linda Branscomb, 21 Anne Street, commented on the previously approved item regarding
sewer allocations and indicated that the Burbank Housing Development
Corporation was working with the owners of the Presbyterian Church
site (location of the existing Community Garden) on a 30 unit
affordable housing project. She indicated that maybe some of the
allocations should be considered for this project. In addition, she
commented that some system of prioritization should be considered by
the City Council.
Adjourrunent Mayor Spiro adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:00 p.m. to
Tuesday, September the 22nd, at 5:00 p.m. for a budget work session.
Dep Cit Clerk
rA