1999/02/09 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
February 9, 1999
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 James J. Reilly, Jr. presiding.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Reilly called the regular session to order at approximately 7:05 p.m. and
led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Present: (4) Councilmembers Flores, Mackenzie, Vidak- Martinez and Mayor Reilly
Absent: (1) Councilmember Linda Spiro (due to illness)
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Netter, City Attorney Flitner,
Assistant City Manager Leivo, Finance Director Harrow, City Engineer Gaffney, Planning
Director Schulenburg, Public Works Manager Stephens, Building Official Braun and
Director of Public Safety Rooney.
1. CLOSED SESSION & WORK SESSION: Mayor Reilly reported on the closed session which
commenced at 6:00 p.m. to discuss matters listed on the agenda attachment, representing an
update. No action was taken at this time. The Mayor also reported that a work session was
held at 6:30 p.m. to consider the 1999 Calendar for Joint Meetings of the City Council.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Corrections to the previous meeting minutes were made by
Council and signified on original set of minutes.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Mackenzie, the
minutes of January 12, 1999 as amended, and January 26, 1999 as submitted, were
unanimously approved, with Councilmember *Linda Spiro absent and Mayor Reilly
abstaining on the January 26th minutes due to absence from the meeting.
*CORRECTIONS ABOVE & BELOW from 2/23/99 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Reilly (additions underlined)
3. APPROVAL OF BILLS: Upon motion by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez, seconded by
Councilmember Mackenzie, *with Councilmember Linda Spiro absent, City bills presented
per the attached list in the amount of $409,166.57 were unanimously approved.
4. ADDING INFORMATIONAL NON - AGENDAED MATTERS:
Mayor Reilly asked Councilmembers or staff if there were any non - agendaed informational
items to add to the agenda.
• Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez signified one item to add to consider further review of
Resolution No. 99 -01 regarding the electronic media policy.
• Councilmember Flores signified an item to add regarding the SSU students and the
Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce.
• Councilmember Mackenzie signified on item to add to report on the SCTA meeting he
attended yesterday.
• Mayor Reilly signified two items to add regarding, (1) a January 1 st article in the Empire
News section of the Press Democrat pertaining to large payrolls of legislators and limited
experience; and (2) concerns expressed by resident golfers.
5. MAYOR'S PRESENTATION: Mayor Reilly shared contents of Resolution No. 99 -23 and made
this presentation commending Roger Petersen on the occasion of his retirement from his
position as Maintenance Helper after ten years of dedicated service to the City of Rohnert Park.
Rohnert Park City Causfiil 14 lmdes () February, 991999
6. YOUTH CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES
from High School 1998 -99 Youth of the Year Program
High School Youth Representatives Senior Vivian Snyder & Junior Melissa Canning were
recognized. Ms. Snyder provided the youth report which included the following:
• "Turnabout" Dance on Saturday, 8:00 p.m., Community Center.
• Spirit rally on Thursday.
• Design of new library - teen suggestions include computers for access to articles and
internet, and CD ROM check out.
• Three additional revs to Youth of Year Steering Committee renrPaantinv 70/10 f I„h
which met this morning, 7:30 a.m. at Rancho Cotate, were David Sommers, Jim Granados
and Jim Henley.
• Spring sports started yesterday.
7. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATED STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE
SSU Student Representatives Senior Karl Binswanger provided the SSU Associated
Student report. He reviewed letter from Senior Brandon Chong expressing regrets that he
would not be able to attend this Council meeting, due to another commitment to a school
related activity. Mr. Chong's letter reported as follows:
• E -mail information regarding students needed for Rohnert Park Founders Day
Celebration Committee has been sent to individuals who handle programming.
• Construction on the new Information Technology Center is progressing slowly but surely.
• The new Residential Halls (entitled Sauvignon) are also being built and 200 extra beds
will be available by the fall of '99,
• Appreciation to Cal Skate Manager Sonny Roper for her dedication to Sonoma State and
the ASI is looking forward to working with her in the future.
• WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) is taking place at Sonoma State,
which is responsible for the accreditation of member schools and colleges.
Mr. Binswanger's report included the following:
• Jump is getting started which includes: (1) volunteers signing up for Cougar Club today at
Kawana Elementary; (2) volunteers signing up for "Adopt -a- Grandparent" at Creekside
Convalescence; and (3) Blood Drive today.
• Efforts are proceding toward big events such as: (1) ASP is sponsoring Louis Rodrigez,
(2) Hunger Awareness Dinner; (3) Parent's Advisroy Board - Children's School Silent
A.. —,! - -. /A\ Td"— —lack Hi U .
• f5) h ULIU11. II+, It $_ -0 t Month, and LibrM and construction progress:
Councilmember Flores commented on the importance of following through with scheduling
the meeting with the SSU Associated Students and designated Councilmembers in August or
September, and working together with the Chamber of Commerce toward student discounts.
Councdmember Mackenzie referred to the first community workshop recently held for the
General Plan Process and encouraged SSU Students to attend the next one on February 22.
8. SCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCE: Vida Jones of Rohnert Park/Cotati Rotary provided
an update on donations to Redwood Empire Food Bank for "A Child's Portion Program ".
She reviewed the background offer from Mr. Feinstein to match contributions for this
program to $1 million and was pleased to report that not only the $1 million, but $2 million
was raised. She indicated that a Hunger Project Check has been received in the amount of
$5,989.53, so the City's contribution previously approved by Council increased by half.
Council commended the successful efforts of this project.
ROwert Park City ;+Council Minutes (3) February 9,1999
9. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES: Mayor Reilly 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).
Sharon Strahlendorf advised that Cub Scouts from Pack 431 of Rohnert Park, Dens 2 and
6 Webelos (1st year) were present at this Council meeting, working on their citizen badge.
The Council responded to questions from the Cub Scouts pertaining to roles and
responsibilities of the Mayor, Vice Mayor and Councilmembers. Questions to Council
were presented by Cub Scouts Tyler Strahlendorf, Kevin German and Anthony Petuya.
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Reilly asked if there were any questions regarding 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. 99 -39 per the City Manager's recommendation; and Ordinance No. 647 in
response to citizen concerns. Council concurred.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on posting of meeting's agenda
Accepting Cash/Investments Report for Month End, December 31, 1998
Resolution Nos:
99 -29 PROCLAIMING MARCH 6, 1999 AS "CPR SATURDAY"
99 -30 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR MISCELLANEOUS SIDEWALK REPAIRS AT
VARIOUS CITY SITES
99 -31 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THE PURCHASE OF HOT WATER POWER
WASHER FOR THE PUMP STATION
99 -32 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR
PAINTING OF WALLS AND LOCKERS AT THE SPORTS CENTER
99 -33 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR RESURFACING TENNIS COURTS
AT DOROTEA PARK AND LADYBUG PARK
99 -34 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR RENOVATION OF MEN'S SAUNA
AT THE PETER CALLINAN SPORTS CENTER
99 -35 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS TO LANDSCAPE NORTHWEST
CORNER OF SOUTHWEST BOULEVARD
99 -36 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR TRACTOR/MOWER
99 -37 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS TO PROVIDE WATER AND
WASTEWATER RATE STUDIES FOR THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
99 -38 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS, SNYDER LANE BIKE PATH, PHASE
III, PROJECT NO. 1994 -7
9940 AUTHORIZING SALARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR CERTAIN PART TIME
RECREATION POSITIONS
9941 REJECTING THE CLAIM OF SHERRY LANGSTON C/O BRIAN W. EVANS,
ESQ. (RE. ALLEGED INJURIES DUE TO ROADWAY NEGLIGENCE)
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with
Councilmember Spiro absent, and with the exceptions of Resolution No. 99 -39 and
Ordinance No. 647, the Consent Calendar as otherwise outlined on the meeting's agenda,
was unanimously approved.
R,orhuert Paris City Ctxe� l Mine#cs (4) February 9,1999
Resolution for consideration:
CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS, PUBLIC SAFETY EMERGENCY
DRIVEWAY. PROJECT NO. 199 8-10
Council concurred to pull this item until after the plan is completed for the new town
center, as recommended by the City Manager.
Ordinance for Adoption
No. 647 ADDING CHAPTER 9.96 TO THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE TO
PROHIBIT THE SALE OF JUNK GUNS
PUBLIC COMMENTS: Mayor Reilly referred to numerous speaker cards presented for discussion
of this item and opened the meeting to receive public comments.
Citizens reviewed verbal and/or written concerns and reasons for expressing OPPOSITION
to the adoption of Ordinance 647 to prohibit the sale of junk guns as follows:
1. Charles Page, a licensed gunsmith, 7118 Adrian Drive, Rohnert Park, Ca.
2. Jason Quick, 1528 Mary Place, Rohnert Park, Ca.
3. Kevin Fogel, 2349 Sundance Street, Santa Rosa, Ca. (Distributed news article)
4. Clayton Cramer, 6087 Dinah Circle, Rohnert Park, Ca.(Distributed written comments)
5. Rhonda Cramer, 6087 Dinah Court, Rohnert Park, Ca.
Questions presented from public comments included:
• What happens if an organization such as the National Riflemen's Association challenges
this ordinance?
• Has consideration been given to the cost to the City to defend it?
• Who tested these firearms?
• Is a copy of the findings available?
• Are any on the list malfunctioning?
• Has the City banned other unsafe products, like chainsaws?
• Will residents with lower incomes be fined because they are unable to afford the more
expensive models?
Council commented on the extensive report from Director of Public Safety Rooney and
in -depth discussion by Council at its previous meeting for consideration of this item.
Council expressed appreciation for the comments made this evening and reviewed reasons
for supporting the ordinance to prohibit the sale of junk guns which included:
• Councilmember Flores signified being a strong advocate of the constitutional provision of
the right to bear arms and the people's right to buy safe guns. If Council adopts this
ordinance, it does not mean abandonment of handguns. The right to bear arms needs to
be respected. The previous presentation by the Director of Public Safety explained the
analysis and views of Saturday Night Specials being unlawful.
• Councilmember Mackenzie recommended staff response to the specific questions raised by
citizens this evening before Council proceeds with further consideration of this item.
• Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez shared personal examples leading to her support of this
ordinance which included her husband being a Navy Veteran and an incident of her child
being left under sniper fire for a while. She supports this ordinance because it is on the
side of caution. There is a range of other safe guns available to people to purchase.
Robnert Park City Council Minutes (5) February 9,1999
Information provided in the staff' report signified it allows for an appeals process.
Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez expressed agreement to wait for staff responses to preceding
questions raised by citizens.
• Councilmember Mackenzie requested staff to also provide information on gun sales and
gun vendors in the City and actual transactions in Rohnert Park.
• Councilmember Flores requested that the staff report also include the Director of Public
Safety providing a list of guns that are safe.
• Mayor Reilly expressed the importance of a decision on this issue and the need to deal with
certain guns that are known to cause problems. Consideration needs to be given on how to
protect the people hired to protect us. They are asking us to take one more step for their
protection. This is the question that needs to be answered. Mayor Reilly indicated his
willingness to listen to more discussion on this issue, but further stressed the importance of
solutions for the protection of the public safety officers, as well as ourselves.
• Council concurred to postpone action on Ordinance 647 to prohibit the sale of junk guns
until after the concerns expressed during this meeting are addressed. Mayor Reilly advised
there would be further consideration of this item on a future Council meeting agenda.
****************************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * **
11. OTHER RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION:
99 -42 RATIFYING THE AUTHORIZATION AND APPROVAL OF LETTER AGREEMENT
WITH RALPH ANDERSON & ASSOC. FOR RECRUITMENT SERVICES (PUBLIC
SAFETY POLICE SERVICES COMMANDER)
City Manager Netter explained the resolution and responded to Council questions.
Discussion included Councilmember Flores commented on the importance of having the
best person for the job and encouraged in -ranks to apply within the department. Vice
Mayor Vidak - Martinez requested having the consultant review constraints in the
recruitment process for this position, such as the residency requirement.
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, and
unanimously approved with Councilmember Spiro absent, reading was waived and
Resolution No. 99 -42 was adopted.
99 -43 AWARD OF CONTRACT, ROHNERT PARK EXPRESSWAY INTERCHANGE
BRIDGE, PROJECT NO. 19914
City Manager Netter explained the resolution and recommended the award of contract to
Benco Contracting in the amount of $1,121,660.00. Bids for this project were opened on
February 3rd. The Engineer's Estimate was $1.47 million. Seven bids were received
ranging from a high of $1.49 million to a low of $1.12 million. City Engineer Gaffney
responded to Council questions explaining that this is the 2nd Phase of the Project which
will widen the bridge structure. At a future date, the 3rd Phase will proceed with the
freeway ramp. Then Caltrans will handle the 2nd Park & Ride Lot and then the second
freeway entrance loop. The state wants to make sure our contractor is finished and out of
the way when the state contractor begins in 2001, with completion anticipated in 2002.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak - Martinez,
and unanimously approved with Councilmember Linda Spiro absent, reading was waived
and Resolution No. 99 -43 was adopted.
Rohnert Park Council Minutes {6} February 9,1999
12. COMMITTEE /COMMISSIONBOARD appointments: (two year terms expired 12131198)
IC_'YCLE ARMORY COMM111FE
James Svenda (two year terms expired 12131198) QR nomination)
Mayor Reilly requested continued advertisement of this opening.
David Cohen was newly appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission upon
nomination by Mayor Reilly, seconded by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez, with the absence of
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimous Council concurrence, for a two year term to expire
December 31, 2000.
13. TOW SERVICE AREA
o Consideration for reduction to City Limits of Rohnert Park & Cotati
1) Report from Towing Committee (AF /JM)
Councilmember Mackenzie reported that the Council Committee of Councilmember Flores
and himself met several times and has heard numerous presentations from towing
companies, which resulted in the Council Committee and staff recommending discussion of
this item through the public hearing process. The Committee suggested the proposal of
pulling the towing service area into Rohnert Park and Cotati city limits versus the one that
currently exists 'with the five mile radius. Mr. Mackenzie indicated that he was not
convinced of this necessity, but would consider the feasibility if it could meet the needs of
our Department of Public Safety. He wanted to be sure the opportunity was provided to
hear from the public and other parties of interest through the public hearing scheduled on
this meeting agenda.
Councilmember Flores commented that the traffic on U. S. Highway 101. has become
unpredictable and Petaluma Hill Road used to be relatively free of congestion, so this item
needed to be reviewed in terms of the Department of Public Safety, response times and
service to the public. The Committee requested Director of Public Safety Rooney to
prepare reports with analysis provided from his staff on aspects related to this item.
2) Staff report - City Manager Netter reviewed the statistics provided for this item from
Director of Public Safety Rooney and staff, which indicate the rotational towing services
being balanced at 102 to 119 vehicle tows by seven Tow Companies from October 1, 1997
to October 1, 1998, so the rotation has been working effectively. On the question
previously asked regarding the towing procedures of the City of Cotati, they have indicated
being reluctant to limit the tow services to within the Cotati - Rohnert Park city limits, so
plan to continue with the established procedures. On the possibility of savings, Mr. Netter
reviewed the staff report indicating that the average annual cost savings was only $119,
which is very insignificant. The real issue is safety and, if there were an emergency
situation, it would not be beneficial to limit the towing services for the City to two or three
companies. Director of Public Safety Rooney has expressed the preference of having no
less than four towing companies in the immediate service area.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) February 9, 1999
City Manager Netter acknowledged that the Chamber of Commerce has indicated being in
favor of local towing services, as well as the Rohnert Park Peace Officers Association.
Other letters received for this item, as listed on Council Communications for this meeting,
included support of local towing services from three residents as follows: C. Nixon;
J. Boyd; and J. C. Mull. Another letter was received from Rohnert Park Towing expressing
support of local towing services. One letter was received opposing the limitation to local
towing services from Able Auto Body /Towing. City Manager Netter responded to Council
question that the reports from the Director of Public Safety and staff recommending the
preference to retain the current established procedure for rotational towing services and
retain the 5 mile radius provision.
PUBLIC HEARING: Mayor Reilly opened the public hearing at approximately 8:14 p.m.
Citizens shared verbal and/or written comments expressing support or opposition to the
consideration for reduction of the tow service area to the city limits of Rohnert Park
and Cotati as follows:
OPPOSE 1. Tim Riley, 1405 Laguna Road, Field Supervisor representing a tow service 1 /8th
mile from the City of Rohnert Park near the on -ramp of South Santa Rosa Avenue
OPPOSE 2. Brent Vance, 6041 Elsa Avenue, of G & C Towing, 4275 Santa Rosa Avenue
OPPOSE 3. Annie Carter, 6100 Labath Avenue, employee of California Highway Patrol
OPPOSE 4. Randall Ludeman, 5749 Stony Point Road
SUPPORT 5. Rose McChesney, 157 Almeria Court, Rancho Feliz Mobile Home Park
SUPPORT 6. Gary Sterner, 247 Alma, of Rohnert Park Tow, 5500 State Farm Drive
SUPPORT 7. Carl Umland, 335 Alison Avenue
There being no one further desiring to speak, Mayor Reilly closed the public hearing at
approximately 8:37 p.m.
Council discussion included comments as follows:
• Councilmember Flores shared his impression that the relationship between the towing
companies is cordial with a responsible professional attitude toward each other. The
question to be considered is in regard to meeting the needs of the City's Department of
Public Safety. Response times may be affected in the future, but until it reaches the point
that there is a concern regarding response times, it is important to support the
recommendation of the Department of Public Safety. Councilmember Flores suggested, as
a member of the Council Subcommittee, to continue the existing towing service program
and monitoring.
• Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez appreciated the views expressed by Councilmember Flores.
Ms. Vidak- Martinez indicated that she likes to support local business but also likes to
keep our options open. It is the way to do business. She wanted the Department of
Public Safety to be able to call a towing service when needed and agreed with its
recommendation, but she also recommended giving preference to calling local companies
first Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez noted that there are currently seven towing companies
on the rotation list and she was in favor of keeping it that way.
• Councilmember Mackenzie signified belief in the public hearing process. He reviewed the
balanced number of proponents for limiting the towing services to the Rohnert Park - Cotati
Rt►hnert Park City Cwmci! Minutes (8) February 9,1999
city limit boundary, with those in favor of maintaining status quo. Mr. Mackenzie shared
that Councilmember Flores and he have discussed this item in their Council Subcommittee
meetings and now the record of this public hearing and staff reports are available to
consider. There is nothing unusual with regard to response times and the rational of the
process is that there is a rotational procedure and established roster to follow which has
resulted in a balanced number of tows for the various towing companies. Councilmember
Mackenzie expressed agreement with Councilmember Flores to continue monitoring and
to support staff's recommendation to continue with the existing towing service program.
Mayor Reilly requested staff to check into the incident of towing on private property at
Rancho Feliz Mobile Home Park mentioned during the preceding public hearing comments.
Mr. Reilly shared that the towing service matters would seem to be a Public Safety issue
and if a particular company is not complying with necessary requirements, then it would be
the discretion of the Director of Public Safety or designated staff to advise the towing
company that it is no longer on the rotational list. Mayor Reilly reviewed reasons for
expressing agreement with the continued need for monitoring to ensure a check on
expenditures and other related factors, but unless he hears otherwise from this Council, the
towing service rotational program as it currently exists will continue. Council agreed.
RECESS: Mayor James Reilly declared a recess at approximately 8:45 p.m.
RECONVENE: Mayor Reilly reconvened the Council meeting at approximately 8:55 p.m. With the
exception of Councilmember Linda Spiro, all other Councilmembers were present.
14. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS:
1) File No. 1814 - Zoning Ordinance Amendment prohibiting parking exceptions in residential
districts - Planning Director Wendie Schulenburg reviewed the staff report for this item and
responded to Council questions. The Planning Commission and planning staff recommend
that the City Council adopt this zoning ordinance amendment deleting Municipal Code
Section 17.34.3 10 (allowance for garage conversions). A public hearing was duly noticed
and scheduled at this time to receive citizen input on this item.
Discussion included Council comments on typical and optional family uses of garages, such
as storage space and grown children at home due to a lack of available /affordable housing
resulting in more adults living in existing homes, which may be what is causing the
additional number of cars on the streets.
PUBLIC HEARING: Mayor Reilly opened the public hearing at approximately 9:00 p.m. There
being no one desiring to speak, the Mayor closed the public hearing.
Ordinance for introduction:
No._ Deleting Municipal Code Section 17.34.310, Residential District Parking
Exemptions (Planning File No. 1814)
A motion was made by Councilmember Flores to waive the reading and introduce the
Ordinance deleting Municipal Code Section 17.34.310, Residential District Parking
Exemptions (Planning File No. 1814). Said motion died for lack of a second.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) February 9, 1999
Mayor Reilly reviewed fax letter submitted earlier today from Councilmember Linda Spiro
regarding enforcement of existing ordinance specifically related to the proliferation of boats,
trailers, motor homes, and other recreational vehicles being stored on our streets, driveways,
side yards, front yards and in some cases on the front lawns. Ms. Spiro's letter
recommended scheduling this item on the next Council meeting agenda for consideration of
a review for updating the City's existing ordinance, and to bring it forward at a general plan
meeting for a possible solution to be included in the current work in process. Consideration
might be given to a City sponsored location for the storage of recreational vehicles for a fee.
Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez expressed her interest in this concern but preferred to
postpone it due to the current General Plan process.
Mayor Reilly suggested placing this item on the next Council meeting agenda simply to
direct staff and at some future date, Council would discuss it further. Council concurred.
City Manager Netter responded to Council questions regarding neighborhood clutter,
confirming the beneficial aspects of the Spring and Fall Clean Up Days and that there are
provisions for residents to make arrangements at designated times with the City's Public
Works Department to pick up larger items for disposal. Mr. Netter provided further
explanation of the extensive background efforts of the Planning Department for the
ordinance presented for consideration on this meeting's agenda to control garage
conversions. He suggested exploring ideas for better control of garage conversions for the
betterment of each neighborhood.
Planning Director Wendie Schuleburg acknowledged the possibility of reconsidering the
findings with efforts toward a more appropriate control mechanism.
Mayor Reilly commented further that it does not appear that Council views garage
conversions in particular as a problem. Conditions of streets and parking is another matter.
This represents two separate issues, i.e. the separate idea of controlled garage conversions
based on impact, how to permit control, sale and resale property values, etc. but not based
specifically on the restriction of garage conversions.
2) File No. 1826 — El Torito Restaurant Site Plan and Architectural Review for location along
US Highway 101 Corridor — 5070 Redwood Drive - Planning Director Schulenburg
referred to plans on display and reviewed the staff report provided for this item. Council
commended the attractive addition to the location, reaffirmed the Planning Commission
Resolution No. 99 -01, and concurred with the unanimous approval of the Planning
Commission for the above - reviewed Planning File No. 1526.
Rohaert Park City CouneWMnutes (IQ) February 9, 19991
15. FINANCE DEPARTMENT - Six Month Financial Review Report
(Revenues & Expenditures) as of December 31, 1998
Finance Director Mike Harrow reviewed highlights of his comprehensive six -month financial
report provided to Council, confirming that 1998 -99 is progressing favorably as expected.
Revenues are slightly above budget at 50.07% of budgeted revenues from the general fund,
and expenditures are slightly under budget at 49.41% of the approved general fund
budgeted expenditures. With consideration of tenth revenues and exnendifiirec the (`itv'c
general fund compares favorably to the half -year budget by approximately $141,000.
Council expressed appreciation for the continued positive news related to the City's budget
indicating a strong economy. Comments included acknowledgment of new businesses like
Taco Bell and the Burlington Coat Factory coming to Rohnert Park which will also enhance
the local economy.
16. CITY'S TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE REPORT and Recommendations
Building Official Lee Braun reviewed his staff report dated February 3, 1999 for this item.
Summarized highlights included;
1) Telephonic Upgrade Final Report - The additional telephone project costs total
approximately $34,000. Since the phone system will be leased and amortized over a five -
year period, the city can add to this lease without a major impact.
2) City's Data Network System - By separating the project into components, the cost of the
entire system will be $220,000. The increased system cost over the originally anticipated
$100,000 can be largely attributed to the need for specific software licensing, training,
uninterrupted power supply (UPS), taxes, building cabling and the identification of more
specific system hardware needs. This asset will also be leased and the additional funds will
be available.
3) TeleWorks and City b Site - This is a combination project which will include the city's
web page combined with an Automated Citizen Information System (ACIS). This is a
telephone information system which has the capability of providing updated city information
on a phone system, as well as on the web page. This project will take a number of months
to review by the Committee prior to making any recommendations for the combination
project. Funds for the combined ACIS /web -site project will be included in the Fiscal Year
1999/2000 budget and reviewed with Council during upcoming budget sessions. Based on
available funds, project implementation is anticipated to begin in August of this year.
City Manager Netter, Finance Director Harrow and Building Official Braun responded to
Council questions on this citywide infrastructure development and telephonic upgrade.
Discussion concluded upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember
Mackenzie, and unanimously approved with Councilmember Linda Spiro absent, to
support the upgrading of the City's systems, as identified in #2 above as recommended by
staff and indicated in the staff report reviewed herein, including the above - referenced budget
overages outlined in #1 above.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) February 9, 1999
17. FIRE SUPPRESSION ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 1999 -2000
Resolution for consideration:
99 -44 Approving an Agreement with Barryman & Henigar for Engineering Consulting
Services for the Fire Suppression Assessment District
City Manager Netter reviewed the staff report outlining the details of this issue as
summarized in the Council Meeting Memo.
Upon motion by Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez, seconded by Councilmember Mackenzie,
and unanimously approved with Councilmember Spiro absent, reading was waived and
Resolution No. 99 -44 was adopted.
18. CITY MERIT AWARDS PROGRAM
City Manager Netter referred to the overview of the City of Santa Rosa's "City Merit
Awards" Program and reviewed the background for consideration of a similar effort for
Rohnert Park. Council suggestions included:
• acknowledgment of interest to formalize a procedure for Rohnert Park;
• may want to consider a selection committee;
• need a desirable period of recognition so this continues to be a program of recognition
with substance and meaning rather than just an annual event, i.e. rotation of award
winners of three to four year intervals,
• more structured and limited number of categories; and
• refer to staff to prepare a proposed mechanism for Council's review, including staff
determination regarding the possibility of utilizing City Commissions for judging, such
as COYF or Cultural Arts Commission, but not liking the idea of Department Heads
being judges; and
• need to consider bench marks and criteria, with example given of City Spot Light Awards.
• Council suggested staff to formulate a policy and bring it back for Council's consideration.
19. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT APPLICATIONS
City Manager Netter reviewed the staff report provided to Council for this item and
responded to Council questions. Assistant City Manager Leivo and Kathleen King of the
Sonoma County Community Development Agency responded to further Council questions
pertaining to the funding strategy for the different types and amounts of applications.
Resolution No:
99 -45 Establishing a Priority Order of Community Development Block Grant Applications
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, and
unanimously approved with Councilmember Spiro absent, to establish the priority order
as follows: (1) Rohnert Park Scattered Site by Burbank Housing ($450,000), (2)
Sidewalk Access Ramp Program ($200,000), (3) Alicia Park Playground Renovation for
ADA Compliance ($60,000), and (4) Rehabilitation of the Boys and Girls Club ($69,000),
reading was waived and Resolution No. 99 -45 was adopted.
Rohner# Park0ty, Council Minutes (12) February 94 1999
Resolution No:
99 -46 Supporting the Application by the Committee on the Shelterless for Community
. Development Block Grant Funding
City Manager Netter explained the resolution for consideration regarding this countywide
pool and indicated that City staff recommends approval of the resolution supporting the
COTS application.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez_ and
unanimously approved with Councilmember Spiro absent, reading was waived and
Resolution No. 99 -46 was adopted.
20. LIBRARY PROJECT
Councilmember Flores explained the draft document provided to Council which the Library
Architect Screening Committee will be using for its all -day session to be held on Saturday,
March 13, 1999 with the suggested criteria to consider architect proposals. A schedule of the
all -day session was also provided for Council's review. Any suggestions for this item can be
made to the Committee Members or the City Manager prior to the scheduled meeting.
City Manager Netter recommended deferral of the resolution to consider an agreement with
David Sabsay for Library Consulting Services due to continued negotiations. Council agreed.
EXTEND COUNCIL. MEETING:
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez,
and unanimously approved, the meeting was extended past 10:00 p.m. to finish necessary
agenda items.
21. COUNCIL YEAR 2000 PROJECT — Matters related to the General Plan process
• General Plan Oversight Committee update (WM /JM)
Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez shared that the Committee's written report will be approved
later this week. About 60 -80% *of participant S were supportive of a balanced approach
for conservative rroowth, , and they diseussed peFfinet
Councilmember Mackenzie indicated they will be reviewing further aspects of this
temefFe previously discussed parameters at tomorrow's Ad Hoc Committee meeting.
They suggested a letter reviewing the program but have not had a chance to discuss this as
a steering Committee. The written report may take the form of a Subcommittee letter.
*C o R R E C T 10 N S ABOVE from 2/23/99 City Council meeting: Per Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak- Martinez (deletions lived mWadditions mderlined)
22. COUNCIL COMMITTEE &/OR OTHER REPORTS:
• Performing Arts Center, 12/14/98 mtg. results (JM/LS)
Councilmember Mackenzie noted the absence of Councilmember Linda Spiro from this
Council meeting and signified deferral of this report. Mr. Mackenzie advised that staff
has received some proposals which the Committee has not had an opportunity to review.
Fisher & Hall has provided information on the design plan for the corner of Snyder Lane
and the Expressway, which was previously requested by the Committee. The next
Committee meeting is in the process of being scheduled, afterwhich they will be able to
provide a more extensive report to the full Council.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) February 9,1999
23. CONCEPT FOR CITY'S ANNUAL REPORT (LS)
Due to the absence of Councilmember Spiro, and since she recommended reviewing this
item at the previous Council meeting, this item was deferred.
24. MAYORAL ROTATION SCHEDULE
1) Review /consideration of separate memos from
• Councilmember Jake Mackenzie
• Councilmember Armando Flores
2) Council discussion /direction - DEFERRED - to enable review by the full Council.
25. 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.
26. MATTERS FROM/FOR COUNCIL:
1) Mayors' and Councilmembers' Association - Mayor Reilly reviewed his memorandum
dated January 19, 1999 regarding voting procedures brought up at the Mayor's and
Councilmembers' Association meeting. He also referred to the changes proposed in the
bylaws and recommended direction from the City Council at its next regular meeting of
February 23, 1999, as this will be voted on at the next Mayors' and Councilmembers'
Association meeting. Mayor Reilly reviewed these and other items to be considered as
listed below and on the Council agenda.
a) By -law amendments proposed at 1/14/99 General Meeting will be voted on at 3/11/99
General Meeting - See paragraph from minutes of April 10, 1997
b) Proposed Amendments, i.e. rotation, appointment procedures, etc., to be discussed at
3/11/99 General Meeting and considered for approval at 5/13/99 General Meeting
c) Appointments to be considered:
1. Metropolitan Transportation Commission — 4 year term
2. Appointments to be considered at March meeting:
a. Golden Gate Bridge & Highway Transportation District
b. Bay Area Air Quality Management Board
c. Airport Land Use commission
Mayor Reilly also explained that at the last Mayors' and Councilmembers' meeting, they
were asked to vote for two specified representatives to the SMART JPA, as reviewed in his
above - referenced memorandum. Councilmember Mackenzie signified his interest in this
appointment. Mayor Reilly requested the City Manager to prepare a letter indicating
Councilmember Mackenzie's interest in the appointment to the SMART JPA.
2) Updating City Council and City Manager portraits - City Manager Netter shared that an
employee recently mentioned the need for this item. Council comments included liking the
idea of maintaining historical photos of Councilmembers; keeping and restoring the Mayor's
Hall of Fame; consideration of a group portrait; and inclusion of this in the process of
considering the new City Center Project.
3) SSU Students - Councilmember Flores reviewed beneficial aspects for SSU Students in line
with efforts of the Chamber of Commerce, such as the possibility of an annual discount book
for the students.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (14) February 9,1999
4) Electronic Media Policy Resolution No 99 -01 - Vice Mayor Vicki Vidak - Martinez shared
concerns from re- reading this policy recently adopted related to the possibility of employee
misuse and monitoring provisions. She asked about the legalities of monitoring and signified
she would not want this at her job. She commented that she had several questions regarding
this including what does it mean and how would it be implemented. Councilmember
Mackenzie indicated that he is a member of the Techonology Group. He shared the
perspective as someone who works in a government agency and its standard practice to
have these policies including a policy to monitor hot lines to turn in fraud and abuse, that he
is used to having his phone logs reviewed by the manager. City Manager Netter signified
that he could invite a member of the Committee who developed the policy to respond to
Council questions. Council concurred.
5) Freight Trains - Councilmember Mackenzie advised that freight trains will start running
through the City again and the railroad tracks will also be upgraded.
6) Transportation Issues /Town Hall Meeting in Petaluma - Councilmember Mackenzie shared
that he will be representing the City on a panel in a Town Hall meeting in Petaluma this
coming Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. regarding transportation issues. Linda Branscomb
will also be on the panel. There will be an open discussion on projects and funding for North
McDowell and Petaluma Hill Road. The public is invited to participate.
7) Legislators' Compensation - Mayor Reilly referred to the January 1 st Empire News article in
the Press Democrat regarding Assemblywoman V aarie Brown being back on payroll for a
Health Care Commission that meets twice a month during the year for $99,000 plus travel
expenses. Mayor Reilly reviewed concerns related to this including information he received
that staff negotiated these contracts, indicated that most are large donators, and that some
come with little or no experience. Mr. Reilly questioned why would someone be put in the
position with no experience. He requested Council agreement to writing an emphatic letter
over the Mayor's signature asking how many commissions are there and how many receive
$99,000 a year for attending meetings twice a month. Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez
expressed the concern that the North Bay North Coast Police Officers and Police Chiefs do
not have a voice, so this also needs to be considered when the representation of who is on
the committees is reviewed.- Council agreed a letter from the City Council over the Mayor's
signature would be appropate stressing that if they are going to have the appointments, they
should be with experience, and that the amount of compensation is out of proportion.
8) Resident Golfers - Mayor Reilly advised that he has received a couple of requests from
resident golfers wanting to meet with the Council to review concerns regarding how the golf
course is being run. Discussion included City Manager Netter noting that there are some
changes being made by the new management of the golf course, so the timing and best
strategy needs to be considered. He also noted that, if the full Council meets with others for
any issue, it is a public meeting, and would need to be noticed. Council agreed a limited
workshop should be considered and Mayor Reilly indicated he would call the individuals who
have called him and ask them to contact the City Manager to set up a workshop before the
next Council meeting. Further Council comments included the people should be aware that
the workshop would be noticed and recognized as an open public process, so they should not
be surprised if representatives of the Golf Course Management Committee attend.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (15) February 9, 1999
27. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
1) City Engineer's update on Rail Crossing Proiect - City Manager Netter advised that
this staff report from City Engineer Gaffney was provided for Council's information.
2) List of City Residency Benefits -City Manager Netter reviewed this informational report
which was previously requested by Council.
3) Problems with dog littering in parks — Recreation Director report - City Manager Netter
advised that this report from Recreation Director Tim Barry was provided responding to
previous Council request. Mr. Barry suggests deferral of the item until after he is able to
do additional research. Council agreed.
4) Final Pricing on 1999 Bond Issue - City Manager Netter referred to memorandums dated
January 28, 1999 from Sohail Bengali of Stone & Youngberg providing information on
a) Tax Allocation Bonds (TABS)
b) Certificates of Participation (COPS)
Mr. Netter advised the good news of hitting the lowest period resulting in 5.3% for TABS
and 5.2% for COPS.
5) Telephone Calls at City Hall - City Manager Netter reported on the numerous phone
calls received recently at City Hall resulting from the ordinance mailer on interest on
security deposits, which has caused the system to lock up on occasion.
6) Voice Mail - It was noted that the Voice Mails of the City Councilmembers have changed
numbers with the upgraded phone system, and will need to call Assistant Civil
Engineer, Matt Townsend, to ask for new code numbers.
7) E -Mails - City Manager Netter announced that the upgraded technology has also made it
possible to now send E- Mails.
8) Miss Sonoma County Pageant - City Manager Netter requested RSVP's from Council
for this upcoming event at the Spreckels Performing Arts Center,
28. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
1) Any items from closed session - City Attorney Flitner advised that the Mayor's report on
the closed session was sufficient.
2) Hillsboro Properties - City Attorney Flitner referred to the passthrough question
presented by Marty Grindahl and advised that settlement is set for March 2, 1999,
29. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
Mayor Reilly asked if there were any additional unscheduled public appearances at this
time. No one responded.
30. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, Mayor Reilly adjourned the meeting at
approximately 10:43 p.m.
J Hau , eputyA,4 Clerk Imes J. Reilly r., Mayor
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