1999/08/10 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
August 10, 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 Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez presiding.
Prior to convening the regular session, the Council met in Closed Session to consider
personnel matters, litigation matters, and real estate negotiations as listed on the
agenda attachment.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez called the regular session to order at
approximately 7:15 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Present: (4) Councilmembers Flores, Mackenzie, Spiro, and Mayor Pro
Tempore Vidak- Martinez
Absent: (1) Mayor Reilly (out of town on business)
Staff Present for all or part of the meeting:
City Manager Netter, City Attorney Betsy Strauss, Assistant City Manager Carl Leivo,
City Engineer Gaffney, Planning Director Schulenburg, Finance Director Harrow, and
Building Official Braun
1. CLOSED SESSION: Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez reported on the closed session
which commenced this evening at 6:00 to discuss the matters listed on the agenda
attachment, representing an update. No action was taken with one exception that the
Council took an emergency item on the Fire Suppression Assessment District. Mayor
Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez advised that the Council reviewed the Court decision,
and stated that the attorneys are continuing to review the decision. Council decided
not to pursue further appellant procedures.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by
Councilmember Flores, with the absence of Mayor Reilly, the minutes of July 27, 1999
were unanimously approved as submitted.
3. APPROVAL OF BILLS: Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Mackenzie, with the absence of Mayor Reilly, City bills presented per
the attached list in the amount of $1,144,699.02 were unanimously approved.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 2 August 10, 1999
4. ADDING INFORMATIONAL NON- AGENDAED MATTERS:
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez asked Councilmembers or staff if there were any
non - agendaed informational items to add to the agenda. Councilmember Spiro
signified two items to add regarding the PAL Building lease for SCAYD and the
Learning Institute and RV Cable TV. Councilmember Flores indicated two items of
discussion regarding the lot left of Spreckels and also the progress on the Padre Center
Rentals.
Councilmember Mackenzie indicated four items to add: (1) Letter from Sister City on
Japanese Garden; (2) ABAG Committee; (3) Green power use; and (4) CAL Fed EIR
5. YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE to the CITY COUNCIL
from High School 1999 -2000 Youth of the Year Program selections
1) Recognizing High School Youth Representatives - High School Youth
Representative Alex Tishara stated that he did not have a formal report and that
Youth Reps Sr. Manisha Hall and Jrs. Harjit Banwait and Nathan Becker were not
present. Students arrived later; the time is signified later in these Minutes.
Councilmember Mackenzie requested a final report from the Youth Summit and requested
that the City Manager and staff provide Council with information before the school year
convenes.
6. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATED STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE
There were no SSU Associated Student Representatives present.
7. MAYOR'S PRESENTATIONS:
1) Presentation of Resolution No. 99 -164 to California Junior Miss State
Chair, Katy Dillwood, Proclaiming August 15 -21, 1999 as "California
Junior Miss Week"
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez read and presented Resolution No. 164 to
Ms. Dillwood, which proclaimed August 15th through August 21st as "California
Junior Miss Week ".
Ms. Dillwood invited all those present to attend the pageant. City Manager
Netter shared that his family would be hosting two of the participants this year
and that they are looking forward to the event.
2) Recognizing presentation of Bicycle Friendly Community Certificate to City
of Rohnert Park from the League of American Bicyclists National Rally,
Sonoma County, Ca.7/23- 26/99.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak - Martinez informed the Council that the City had
received a `Bicycle Friendly Community Certificate ". Councilmember Mackenzie
acknowledged the receipt of the Certificate and pointed out that the City does, in
fact, have a Bicycle Plan, and that the City encourages the use of bicycles.
of Rohnert Park Minutes 3 August 10, 1999
3) Recognizing presentation from California Chapter of the American
Planning Association of Northern Section Award for the City Center Design
Charette by Moore Iacofano Goltsman, Inc.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez referred to plans on display and read into the
record the recognition of the City Center Design Charette.
After the 1st Scheduled Public Appearance, City Manager Netter acknowledged
the arrival of Wayne Goldberg, Chair of Awards Committee.
Mr. Goldberg personally congratulated the City of Rohnert Park and pointed out
that Rohnert Park was one of the 14 awards in the State of California to receive
awards to be presented in Bakersfield, California in October. Mr. Goldberg
stated that this now qualifies for competition on the National Level to be held
next spring in New York.
8. SCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
1) Dennis Tatman, introduced his daughter, Sara Tatman, age 15, as the
Northern California Junior Teen Queen in the 1999 National American
Junior Teen Pageant
Mr. Dennis Tatman introduced his daughter, Sara Tatman, Northern California
Junior Teen Queen for 1999.
Miss Tatman shared, with the Council, some of her experiences with the pageant.
She stated that the pageant was held on 7/8 & 7/9 in San Jose, California and that
she competed against 53 girls. Miss Tatman stated that she would continue the
competition at the National Pageant in Florida. She stated that basically, the
pageant recognizes all around American girls who were judged in ten different
categories. Miss Tatman requested a picture of the Council for input into the
National Program.
The Council agreed to provide a photograph for Miss Tatman when all of the
Councilmembers were present.
Councilmember Flores, and the Councilmembers present commended Miss
Tatman for her achievement.
2) St. Elizabeth Seton Church Letter request from Father John Griffin to
Reconsider Approval of Bicycle Advisory Committee Recommendation for
No parking in front of the Church & to Retain Previously Approved
Limited Parking
Representative of St. Elizabeth Seton Church provided the Council with a written
report and shared contents therein. In summary, the report addressed the parking
situation at St. Elizabeth Seton Parish, and the need for parishioners to park in front
of the church during major mass services.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 4 August 10, 1999
Councilmember Mackenzie asked the City Manager if the Council could take action
on this matter.
City Attorney Strauss noted that the action listed on the agenda for this meeting
was whether or not Council wants to reconsider the decision and, if so, it should be
agendized at the next or future Council meeting.
Councilmember Spiro stated she would like to declare this item an emergency and
handle it this evening.
City Manager Netter stated that signs currently say that parking is permissible on
weekends. City Manager further stated that if Council defers this matter until the
next meeting, that the signs would be left in tact until after the next meeting. He
responded to further Council comments that staff would check into laws for
bicycling on sidewalks.
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores,
with the absence of Mayor Reilly, the Council unanimously approved to reconsider
the recommendation of the Bicycle Advisory Committee at a future meeting.
9. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES: Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez
stated that in compliance with State law (The Brown Act), citizens wishing to make a
comment may do so at this time (limited to 3 -5 minutes per appearance with a 30 minute total
time limit).
1) Charles Kitchen, 4457 Hollingsworth Circle, Rohnert Park: Mr. Kitchen
referred to the City Manager's Report on Mountain Shadows Golf Course listed on the
agenda and questioned the extent of problems caused by poor maintenance. Mr.
Kitchen expressed concern with the operation and maintenance of the Golf Course.
Mr. Kitchen suggested the need to elect a Golf Course Committee and expressed
interest in being a member of such Committee.
2) Tom Woodcock, 195 Verde Circle, Rohnert Park: Spoke as GSMOL President
and as a resident of Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park stating that on 7/28/99 an arrest
was made on a resident for assaulting a 16 year old boy. Mr. Woodcock expressed
concern that the arrestee was a convicted sex offender in 1992, but that the residents
were not informed of this fact. Mr. Woodcock stated that he was informed that the
Department of Public Safety's policy is to not inform citizens when convicted felons
reside in neighborhoods. Mr, Woodcock further noted that 6 sex - offenders reside in
the City of Rohnert Park, 3 of whom reside in Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez, suggested that the City Manager investigate City
policy and report back to the Council.
Councilmember Flores, requested the Director to provide his analysis of the existing
departmental policy.
City of Roluiert Park Minutes 5 August 10, 1999
Councilmember Spiro concurred with Councilmember Flores' suggestion, but
expressed some concern with regard to the number of offenders who reside in one
residential complex in the City. Councilmember Spiro stated that the residents of the
Mobile Home Park should have been notified.
Councilmember Mackenzie looks forward to receiving a staff report on this matter.
3) Michelle Rogers, 1319 Gasper Court, Rohnert Park: Ms. Rogers spoke regarding
Proposition 10 and Rohnert Park's representation on the Sonoma County Children &
Families First Commission and distributed informational material regarding membership
update and upcoming meeting and public workshop notices. She expressed concern
regarding the City of Rohnert Park being underrepresented on the Commission. She
urged appointment of a representative from the City and stated that there is a need for
representation on the Community Advisory Commission (CAC) from the City of
Rohnert Park.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez volunteered to work on the Community Advisory
Committee's Child *CaYe and Edue tie Welfare Committee.
*C O R R E C T 10 N ABOVE from 8/24/99 City Council meeting: Per Vice Mayor Vidak- Martinez (deletion lined out/addition underlined)
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak - Martinez thanked Ms. Rogers for bringing this matter to
the attention of the Council.
Ms. Rogers made a correction to the Agenda item on the Building Blocks date from
8/29/99 to 8/26/99.
4) Brian Talbot, 845 Russell Ave, #5C, Santa Rosa, CA: Mr. Talbot wished to
make a point of correction to the minutes of July 27th. Mr. Talbot stated that the
student body is referred to as the ASI (Associated Students, Inc.), as opposed to the
ASB (Associated Student Body).
5) Mr. Jim Groom, Suite 103, Codding Building: Mr. Groom expressed opposition to
the Burton Bill -SCA 3. Mr. Groom stated that he felt that it was unnecessary to ask
taxpayers for more money for transportation, He noted that Sonoma County sends $70
million dollars to Sacramento every year for transportation. Mr.Groom stated that the
problem is not a shortage of money, but just doing the job. Mr. Groom suggested that
the City request that the legislatures give back the majority of the money that the City
has given to them.
. .................................................. ...............................
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez asked if there were any questions regarding
matters on the Consent Calendar which were explained in the City Manager's Council
Meeting Memo.
Acknowledgement of the City Manager /Clerk's Report on posting of meeting's agenda.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 6 August 10, 1999
Acceptance of Cash/Investments Report as of June 30, 1999 - Preliminary Report
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez read Resolution Titles.
Resolution Nos:
99 -177 PROCLAIMING SEPTEMBER 18-26,1999 AS "CELEBRATION OF THE
RUSSION RIVER AND ITS WATERSHED"
99 -178 APPROVING THE REVISED ENGINEERING DESIGN AND
CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS
99 -179 AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING AN AGREEMENT FOR
�UPFRVISOR_ Y CONTROL AND DATA ACQUISITION (SODA)
SYSTEM UPGRADE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE WITH
SMEDSHAMMER CONSULTING
99 -180 RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 99 -168 AND CALLING FOR SEALED
PROPOSALS FOR A DIESEL EXHAUST EXTRACTION SYSTEM FOR
PUBLIC SAFETY NORTHERN AND SOURTHERN STATIONS
99 -181 REJECTING CLAIM OF MARY HANLON (RE. ALLEGED
EMPLOYMENT CONCERNS)
99 -182 REJECTING CLAIM OF RAQUEL M. STOWELL (RE. ALLEGED
VEHICLE TIRE /RIM DAMAGE)
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Spiro,
with Mayor Reilly absent, the Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's
agenda, was unanimously approved.
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11. COUNCIL, YEAR 2000 PROJECT - MATTERS RELATED TO THE GENERAL
PLAN PROCESS
1) General Plan Oversight Committee Update
Councilmember Mackenzie reported that the General Plan Oversight
Committee meeting agenda had been posted and mailed, and that a meeting
would be held tomorrow 8/11/99 from 6 -9 p.m. to continue to review draft
plans regarding transportation, as well as, to continue the urban growth
measure draft discussions.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez reported that the Committee met on
August 5 with City Manager Netter and City Attorney Betsy Strauss to
review concepts relating to UGB, purposes envisioned for UGB, kinds of
amendments, exceptions that should be considered for inclusion, and other
amendments. She stated that City Attorney Strauss provided a variety of
options for consideration.
Councilmember Mackenzie stated that the Committee would propose both
commercial and residential developments, to include affordable housing and
other segments of housing. Councilmember Mackenzie further stated that the
Vice -Mayor and he had discussed with the City Manager and the City
Attorney various proposals, and that they are reviewing possible restrictions
that may need to be addressed in years to come.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 7 August 10, 1999
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez stated that there is not much land for
many exceptions to the Plan. She stated that the City has very little options
and that the separator makes the situation unique. Mayor Pro Tempore
Vidak - Martinez announced that the full Committee would meet tomorrow
night, 8/11/99. Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez informed the Council
that the Committee had received some good information and advice from City
Attorney Strauss to assist them with their discussions.
City Manager Netter summarized changes made to the milestone dates of the
General Plan process timeline, and urged the importance of completing the
project timely. City Manager Netter suggested several potential dates for the
workshops.
It was the consensus of the Council to schedule a Work Session with the City
Council on Tuesday, September 7, 1999 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Councilmember Spiro suggested that there may be a need to block additional
dates. However, it was decided to set additional dates at the next Council
meeting.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez stressed the importance of entertaining
and addressing specific questions and concerns at the workshop.
2) Other
There were no other matters for discussion under this item.
12. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY MASTER PLAN REVISION 1999 -
PROPOSED PROJECT
• Notice of Preparation of a Draft Environmental Impact Report
1) Staff Report
City Manager Netter summarized this Notice. City Manager Netter stated that this
was a major City impact project, and that the City Engineer will be reviewing the Plan.
City Manager Netter stated that this was provided to the Council as an informational
item.
Councilmember Spiro asked at what point residents would be notified, and stressed the
importance of communicating to business agencies as well as to governmental
agencies. Councilmember Spiro requested that a notice be sent to commercial
businesses in surrounding areas.
Planning Director Wendie Schulenburg pointed out that the City is required to send
notices to all affected agencies. However, Ms. Schulenburg noted that typically the
notices are not sent to the private sector.
Councilmember Mackenzie recommended that staff notify the Rohnert Park
Chamber of Commerce. Councilmember Flores further recommended that a
presentation be made at one of the Commerce's monthly meetings.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 8 August 10, 1999
13. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS:
1) Letter from Dr. James E. Bruns Regarding Redesign /Timing Costs and
Requesting Reduced Building Permit and Hookup Fees
City Manager Netter informed the Council that the letter was deferred to
Joe Gaffney and Wendie Schuelenburg for further review and for detailed
evaluation and that a report has been received from staff.
Councilmember Flores noted that the analysis was well done and thorough.
inrnncilmPmhPr Flnrec stated that he felt that Dr. Bruns should have been
given some re- consideration, since, in fact, his project had to go to a
second phase. Councilmember Flores stated that he felt that $8,900 is a
reasonable request to consider.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak - Martinez stated that she would support
reducing the figure *because this is a unique situation related to City
Center development.
*C O R R E C T 10 N ABOVE from 8124/99 City Council meeting: Per Vice Mayor Vidak - Martinez (addition underlined)
Staff, Planning Director, Wendie Schulenburg, noted Dr. Bruns would have
been approved if he had not presented an alternative design at the Planning
Committee Meeting. She further noted that the presentation of an
alternative design was the reason for the delay, and for the need for
additional costs from design staff.
City Manager Netter responded to Council comments that City policy is
not to waive fees.
Upon motion by Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak Martinez, seconded by
Councilmember Flores, with Mayor Reilly absent, and Councilmember
Spiro dissenting, the Council approved the motion to refund $6,892 to
help offset additional costs that may have incurred due to redesign of Dr.
Bruns' facility in response to his request for reduction in building permit
fees.
For the record, Councilmember Spiro noted that since the City's policy is
not to waive building permit fees, she voted no on the motion.
14. DATA NETWORK MAINTENANCE CONSULTING SERVICES:
1) Staff Report
Finance Director Michael Harrow summarized the staff report on this item,
outlining the reasons for support of hiring contracting vendors. Finance
Director Harrow stated that an Information Services Manager Contractor
would provide the City with better coverage. He stated also that the
Technology Committee highly recommends approval of the contract. In
conclusion, Finance Director Harrow stated that hiring a contractor would
provide the City with more flexibility.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 9 August 10, 1999
City Manager stated that this was placed as a separate item on the agenda to
provide Council with a clear picture of the structure of the Network and the
team efforts involved for this process.
Resolution No:
99 -183 APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING SERVICES,
DATA NETWORK MAINTENANCE WITH EXTRA TEAM
Upon motion made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Councilmember
Mackenzie, and unanimously approved, with Mayor Reilly not present,
reading was waived and Resolution No. 99 -183 was adopted.
15. DOROTHY ROHNERT SPRECKELS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
MATTERS:
1) PAC Committee Report
Councilmember Spiro highlighted events scheduled for the Performing Arts
Center. She informed the Council that discussion was held regarding lighting
for the Center and that the Committee is waiting for a proposal to be
presented to the Council on the Events Message Board.
Councilmember Spiro requested that Council reserve 4/27 -30 for upcoming
events to be planned during the 1999/2000 season, particularly the 28th &
29th.
Councilmember Mackenzie expressed concern that the Marin Symphony is
filling a vacant date from their schedule. Councilmember Mackenzie
expressed concern over the high costs for contracting the group.
Councilmember Mackenzie suggested that the Performing Arts Center
Committee meet and review budget plans.
2) Items for Council Approval
Season 99 -2000 and Ticket Prices
Council concurred with the Season Schedule, with Councilmember
Mackenzie's reservations.
• Replacement for Symphony
City Manger Netter stated that this .item would be placed on the next
agenda.
(YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES: SENIOR MANISHA HALL & JUNIORS HARJIT
BANWAIT & NATHAN BECKER ARRIVED AT 9:00 P.M.)
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez asked if the Youth Representatives to the City
Council wished to give their report at this time.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 10 August 10, 1999
Youth Representatives apologized for being late, and provided the Council with brief
comments as summarized below:
• Sr. Manisha Hall informed the Council that she is the Secretary of the ASI
• The first school activity will be Freshman Orientation
• Football practice starts on 8/16/99 with the first game scheduled for 9/10/99
• Plans to renovate the school Multi- Purpose room and bathrooms
Councilmember Spiro suggested that the Youth Representatives consider the PAL
building as a Teen Center with Community Outreach for Youth and Family
CAP NnGQ WnN7T l avan ;f fnr nnly n tPmnnrnry 1nontinn Cnlinrilmemher Rnim
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suggested this matter be placed on next agenda and requested a report from the
City Manager regarding feasibility. City Manager Netter noted that he has
proceeded to pursue this feasibility.
16. CITY CENTER PROPOSAL FROM SPECTRUM GROUP (FOLLOWING
8/5/99 WORKSHOP)
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak - Martinez. summarized the scope of services provided
by the Spectrum Group. She stated that the Group is interested in commercial as
well as residential development of the City Center or Civic Center. She further
reported that discussions are still in the early stages. She pointed out that the
Council would not make any final decisions until a detailed report is received
from the City Manager and Staff.
Councilmember Spiro noted Council appeared to be supportive of utilizing the
Group.
City Manager Netter stated further that the company focuses on very specialized
projects for mixed use.
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez noted also that the Spectrum Group is very
in tune to meeting timelines proposed for Civic Center Project.
17. COUNCIL COMMITTEE & /OR OTHER REPORTS:
1) Library Subcommittee, 8/10/99 Meeting
Councilmember Flores summarized his written report, for the Council.
He noted the cost for the library is considerably higher than Council's original
recommendation. Councilmember Flores stated also that the recommendation is
to consider the possibility of selling the existing library, sale of City Hall, and
designate money to building the library. However, Councilmember Flores
pointed out that there are other groups interested in the project, He noted that
there is a possibility to construct the library with both public and private funds, as
long as the end result is a quality library. He also noted that Heald College is
interested in leasing the top part of the library.
Councilmember Flores recommended to place consideration of dedicating the
*City Seal City Hall sale to the Library Project on the 8/24 Council meeting agenda.
*C 0 R R E C T 10 N ABOVE from 8/24/99 City Council meeting: Per Councilmember Flores (deletion lined out/addition underlined)
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 11 August 10, 1999
2) Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) 8/4/99 Meeting (JM)
Councilmember Mackenzie reported that he attended an ABAG meeting on
8/4/99. Councilmember Mackenzie requested that correspondence received
from the Marin County Board of Supervisor be agendized for the 8/24/99
Council meeting.
Councilmember Mackenzie stated that he found the correspondence from
ABAG requesting a 25% population increase in Sonoma County, and a 50%
job increase to be interesting.
3) Recreational Vehicle Parking Committee Meeting (LS)
Councilmember Spiro commended attendees to the first RV Committee
meeting.
Councilmember Spiro reported that the meeting went very well and that there
was no animosity among those present. Councilmember Spiro commended
staff and the Committee for their efforts.
4) Cable TV Committee Meeting (LS /AF)
Councilmember Spiro stated that the Cable TV meeting was very involved,
but the draft was not yet completed. Councilmember Spiro and
Councilmember Flores will report back to the Council with a full report.
18. TRANSPORTATION MATTERS:
1) Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA), 8/9/99 Meeting
a) Including SCA 3 (Burton) - Transportation Bill Update
Councilmember Mackenzie acknowledged the presence of SCTA Director
Suzanne Wilfred, and requested that City Engineer Gaffney provide the
Council with an update.
City Manager deferred discussion of this matter to City Engineer Joe Gaffney.
Mr. Gaffney informed the Council that the City is approximately $1.2 million
dollars short. Mr. Gaffney stated that one option would be for Caltrans to
reduce the scope of the project to better fit the City's budget. He noted,
however, that Caltrans has indicated that they were not willing to do so. City
Engineer Gaffney stated that he met with an associate of Congresswoman
Woolsey, Tom Rocks, urging his assistance to communicate with Caltrans.
Regarding researching additional funds for the project, Mr. Gaffney stated
that SCTA suggested reallocating money the City had for Wilford Ave right -
of -way. Other funding sources will become available in the future. City
Engineer suggests that the City continue to pursue convincing Caltrans to
reduce the scope of the project.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 12 August 10, 1999
b) Letter request from SCTA for Council re- endorsement of Expenditure
Plan
Ms. Wilford, Director of SCTA , advised that the statewide half -cent sales tax
ballot measure has passed the Senate. Ms. Wilford summarized various
amendments being considered regarding the Measure.
Resolution Nos:
99 -184 RECONFIRMING SUPPORT OF THE 1998 TRANSPORTATION
BALLOT MEASURE EXPENDITURE PLAN
T Tnnn a mntinn by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by
Councilmember Flores and unanimously approved with Mayor Reilly not
present, reading was waived and Resolution No. 99 -184 was adopted.
19. 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.
Councilmember Spiro reviewed Communication Item #4 from Lee Jurgill/Senior
Advisory Commissioner regarding portable basketball hoops at residential homes
projecting out on sidewalks making it difficult for disabled people using walkers or
electric scooters to maneuver around these obstacles. Ms. Spiro urged enforcement
of keeping the basketball hoops up.in the driveways and off the sidewalks. Council
agreed.
20. OTHER MATTERS FROM/FOR COUNCIL:
1) Scotland Parliament Report
Councilmember Mackenzie reported on his visit to the Scotland Parliament
including his presentation of Rohnert Park's Resolution to the Deputy
Presiding Officers of Parliament, Councilmember Mackenzie stated that when
he receives acknowledgement from Parliament, he will provide Council with a
more memorable report. Councilmember Mackenzie thanked the Council for
the opportunity to represent the City.
2) Mayors' & Councilmembers' Association General Membership Meeting
July 8, 1999
• Consideration of Letter from Santa Rosa Councilmember
Marsha VasDupre Re. Census Count Committee -
Outreach to Community
City Manager Netter reported on this major countywide effort
urging public participation and to ensure proper census report
information. City Manager Netter suggested the need for a
letter expressing Council commitment and comments in support
of this endeavor. Council concurred.
Councilmember Flores, noted that in the past, census reports
have been inaccurate, and stressed the importance of sound
reports, and to consider the financial impacts.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 13 August 10, 1999
3) Building Blocks: Current Research on Early Childhood
Development and its practical Applications - One Day
Learning Session, Thurs., Aug. 26, 1999, 9:00 a.m.- 3:00
p.m., at Sonoma County Office of Education in Santa Rosa
Council noted that this workshop was reviewed earlier this evening during
Unscheduled Public Appearances.
4) Strategic Planning Workshop, Tues., Aug. 24, 1999, 6:00 -7:30 p.m. prior
to City Council meeting with Rick Brown, The Results Group
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak- Martinez announced that the Strategic Planning
Workshop was scheduled for August 24, 1999 prior to the City Council
Meeting with Representative Rick Brown of the Result Group.
5) Non - Profit Groups Lease Space
Regarding the leasing of space for SCAYD and the Learning Institute,
Councilmember Flores asked if they are proceeding on the original schedule;
City Manager Netter responded yes.
6) Vacant Lot East of Spreckels Performing Arts Center
Regarding the lot east of the Spreckels Performing Arts Center,
Councilmember Flores expressed concern regarding the unattractiveness of
the lot and suggested the feasibility of using the land for parking in the future.
He suggested an interim plan for the lot to make it more attractive.
City Manager Netter stated that he would report back to the Council on
recommendations for the lot.
7) Green Power (Geysers Plants to Provide Power)
Councilmember Mackenzie referred to 8/7/99 meeting he attended and Press
Democrat news article and requested staff to determine if there were any
beneficial possibilities for the City from aqueduct water.
City Manager Netter responded that staff would investigate possibilities.
21. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: .
1) Pigeon Permit Application Update & Consideration of An Urgency
Ordinance adding Chapter 1.24 (Nuisance Abatement) to the Rohnert Park
Municipal Code
City Manager referred to review of this item at the previous meeting and
reported that the application was non - compliance status. City Manager stated
that a letter was sent to Mr. Delgadillo to abate the pigeons and notify him
that his property did not meet requirements for a pigeon permit. City
Manager Netter stated that staff is requesting that the Council consider an
Urgency Ordinance, and if not abated, that the Council adopt an abatement
procedure that can be mandated through court action as necessary.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 14 August 10, 1999
City Attorney Strauss, noted that the abatement procedure has been started
with the City Manager's letter. If abatement does not occur, City Attorney
Strauss stated that the City could abate the pigeons either with employees or
contractors and charge the costs to the property owner. However, City
Attorney Strauss stated, in order to follow procedure, the City needs to adopt
an Urgency Ordinance. City Attorney Strauss suggested that the Council
adopt the Ordinance in case it wants to use the Ordinance in this case or in
future cases.
Mr Martin MgrJ)onalcl with the Sonoma County Racing Pigeon Club, spoke
briefly in support of allowing the property owners to complete the pigeon race
season to mid - October.
Councilmember Mackenzie noted that the Ordinance has never been tested
and suggested that Council examine the Ordinance more thoroughly, rather
than adopting the Ordinance as an Urgency Ordinance.
Councilmember Flores stated that the City could have a problem and be
challenged in terms of property line distance. He noted concern that we allow
resident to at least complete the pigeon- racing season to the middle of
October.
City Manager Netter expressed concern that the residential area is not
accommodating to his business. City Manager Netter informed the Council
that Mr. Delgadillo has in excess of 90 pigeons, and that the resident already
has a court date regarding complaints.
City Attorney Betsy Strauss noted letter drafted for this item indicates the
abatement date for removal of the pigeons and structures is 8/24/99. City
Attorney Strauss noted that extending the date is at Council's discretion.
Councilmember Flores suggested allowing a voluntary extension date until the
completion of the racing season.
City Manager pointed out that the property was cited as a criminal matter and
that a trial date has been set for 8/19/99.
EXTEND COUNCIL MEETING:
Upon motion by Councilmember Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember
Flores and unanimously approved, with Mayor Reilly absent, to extend the
meeting past 10:00 p.m. to finish necessary agenda items.
Urgency Ordinance No:
654 Upon motion made by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember
Mackenzie, and approved, with Mayor Reilly absent, and Councilmember
Spiro dissenting, to require owner to remove all pigeons and coops by
abatement date 10/15/99 with amendment by Councilmember Mackenzie for
the Council to review further the Ordinance, and have further debate with full
Council including review of the required 75 ft. footage.
City of Rohnert Park Minutes 15 August 10, 1999
Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak - Martinez stated that she agrees with extending the
date. She encouraged the owner to be considerate of neighbors and
suggested that the Council make the finding mandatory.
2) Japanese Garden Update
City Manager Netter reported on the status of the Japanese Garden.
Staff is awaiting estimates for renovations for atriums and will report back to
the Council.
3) Golf Course - Mt. Shadows 2000 Proposal - Update
City Manager Netter reported that meetings are continuing with Mountain
Shadows representatives with various issues being discussed.
Councilmember Spiro suggested the need to schedule a Golf Course
Committee meeting to address concerns of residents and golfers.
22. CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT:
1) Items from Closed Session:
The Mayor Pro Tempore's report on the closed session was sufficient.
2) Other
City Attorney Strauss indicated that she had no other reports at this time.
23. ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business, Mayor Pro Tempore Vidak-
Martinez adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:15 p.m.
Teresa Taylor -King ecorder
(081099.mn)
Vicki Vidak- Martinez, Mayor Pro Temp