2000/04/11 City Council MinutesCITY OF ROHNERT PARK CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES for:
City Council
Community Development Commission
Rohnert Park Financing Authority
April 11, 2000
Tuesday
The concurrent meetings of the City of Rohnert Park for
the City Council, Community Development Commission and
Rohnert Park Financing. Authority met this date in
regular session commencing at 6:00 p.m. in the City.
Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with
Vice Mayor Mackenzie presiding.
CALL TO ORDER:
Vice Mayor Mackenzie called the regular session to
order at approximately 7:05 p.m. and led the
pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: (4) Councilmembers Flores, Reilly, Spiro
and Vice Mayor Mackenzie
Absent: (1) Mayor Vidak- Martinez
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City
Manager Netter, Assistant City Manager Leivo,
Building Official Braun and Recreation Director
Barry.
WATER SYMPOSIUM: A water symposium was held at 6:30
p.m. in which City Engineer Gaffney reviewed water
issues.
1. CLOSED SESSION:
Vice Mayor Mackenzie 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.
2. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, the minutes of March 28, 2000
were approved with the noted amendment below.
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(2 )
Councilmember Spiro: (1)Page 9, last paragraph,
"many" communities should read "a few" communities.
3. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS, IF ANY (INFORMATIONAL ONLY)
Vice Mayor Mackenzie indicated that the Council
would revert to its old practice of adding
informational, non - agendaed matters to the agenda
until such time as City Attorney Strauss, who is
ill this evening, can present to the full Council
her draft resolution relating to the format of
City Council meeting agendas and, in particular,
potential violations of the Brown Act. He then
asked Councilmembers or staff if there were any
non- agendaed informational items to add to the
agenda.
* Councilmember Spiro signified two items to add:
(1)a complete review of the parking ordinance;
(2)an update on traffic in the "L" section.
Councilmember Reilly indicated that he would wait
for City Attorney Strauss' memo before discussing
the set -up of the agenda. He also noted for the
record that his desire to discuss the set -up of the
agenda differs from Councilmember Spiro's Item No.
6, "Scheduled Public Appearances Policy," under
"Matters from /for Council."
4. SISTER CITIES COMMITTEE PRESENTATION BY REBECCA
RISHE, PRESIDENT
Trip to Hashimoto City, April 20 -28 2000: Ms.
Rishe briefly discussed the Council packet. She
noted the six representatives from the City are
Mr. & Mrs. Gordon Adam, Mr. & Mrs. Mike Grubler,
.Mrs. Susan Harrow and herself. She requested the
letter from Mayor Vidak- Martinez thanking the Mayor
and the citizens of Hashimoto for opening up their
city. She read the formal charter from Sister
Cities International, which she will be presenting
to the Mayor of Hashimoto, and she showed Council
the pen set and book which will also be presented
to the Mayor of Hashimoto. Council agreed with
Councilmember Flores that the letter and the
charter should be framed for the presentation to
the Mayor of Hashimoto.
Emergency item declared: Upon motion by
Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Councilmember
*City Council /Community Development Commission /Rohnert
Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District ,
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Flores, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez absent, this item
was declared an emergency item due to the time
frame.
Upon motion by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilmember Flores, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, a motion for City Manager Netter to
authorize expenditure of $250 for a more formal
gift to the Mayor of Hashimoto was approved 4 -0,
with Mayor Vidak- Martinez absent.
Council wished the ambassadors a pleasant trip
and a safe return back to Rohnert Park.
5. NICHOLE MEDERIOS, RANCHO COTATE HIGH SCHOOL/
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Ms. Mederios gave a rendition of her speech on
community service which she delivered at the
California - Nevada Lions Club Student Speakers
Contest. She acknowledged how busy teenagers and
adults are these days, but called on them to make
time to volunteer, not only during the holidays,
but throughout the year. She pointed out that for
every senior visited and for every child coached,
for example, there were still seniors who needed
visitors and children who needed coaches. She
pointed out that more volunteerism would bridge the
gap between those who volunteer and those who will
not find the time to do so. It would also give a
needed boost to the 300 organizations that serve
Sonoma County.
Council thanked Ms. Mederios for her well delivered
speech and meaningful message.
6. JOAN McLAIN, LA FIESTA SCHOOL /STUDENT PRESENTATION
Cyberfaire 2000 -Crane Family Project: Ms. Joan
McLain, along with students from the Web Club at
La Fiesta, gave a brief presentation of the "Crane
Family Project" Web site, which was created by all
60 first -, second- and third -year students at the
school. The Web site is part of Cyberfaire 2000 and
will be judged later this month. The "Crane Family
Project" acknowledges the contributions in farming
and agriculture made by the Crane family since
their arrival in Sonoma County in 1852. Ms. McLain
thanked the City of Rohnert Park for its support of
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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April 11, 2000 Page(4 )
this project and referred Council and citizens to
the Web site, http: / /www.ncal.verio.com/ lafiesta/
narrate.html, for more information.
Council wished the Web Club and the students at La
Fiesta the best of luck in the judging process, and
Vice Mayor Mackenzie suggested they share their
photos of Rohnert Park with the newly formed
Historical Society in the Rohnert Park /Cotati area.
MOMENT OF SILENCE:
Vice Mayor Mackenzie called for a moment of silence
to remember Angeline Gorski, killed in a fire at 101
Enterprise Drive recently, as well as Tom
Schopflin, a County administrator in Sonoma County,
who died at the beginning of April. He sent the
Council's condolences and sympathies to.the families
of those two individuals.
7. COMMUNITY OUTREACH FOR YOUTH & FAMILIES (COYF)
COMMISSION:
Selections for
CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 1999 MERIT AWARDS
*Community Service /Business:Buddies Pizza, Dan
Hubley
*Community Service /Individual:Lew Kuehm
*Community Service /Organization:Sunburst Projects,
Jerry Brooks, Executive Director and Founder
* Community Service /Schools:Panel of Young Americans,
Rancho Cotate High School, Floralee Gansler
*Cultural Enrichment:Maxine Schwab (Unable to
attend. Award postponed.)
*Youth Services:Konocti Girl Scout Council Unit #6,
Barbara Novak and Debbie Bailey
Ruth Lefkowitz, Community Resource Coordinator, and
Anne Goldy and Lisa Bagwell from the COYF Commission
explained the six categories for volunteer
commendation. Vice Mayor Mackenzie acknowledged all
the work each recipient does, and, in particular,
thanked Mr. Hubley for his afterschool homework
club, Mr. Kuehm for his work at the Senior Center,
Ms. Brooks for her work with children with AIDS,
Ms. Gansler for her work with students to overcome
racism, Ms. Schwab for her support of the arts and
Ms. Novak and Ms. Bailey for their leadership with
the Girl Scouts. He also. thanked Ms. Lefkowitz,
staff, and the many other community volunteers.
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page (5 )
8. YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM HIGH
SCHOOL 1999 -2000 YOUTH OF THE YEAR PROGRAM
SELECTIONS:
Senior Melissa Canning and Juniors Jackie Snyder and
Daniel Cronin provided the Youth Report which
included the following:
*Gong Show on April 7th was a success
*White Ribbon Week at RCHS through this Friday in
support of ending domestic violence toward women
*Spring Dance, Friday, April 14 -Luau theme
*Spring Break, April 24 -28
*RCHS journalism program ranked 3rd in California,
5th in the nation
*ASB now accepting applications
*Youths of the Year applications due May 1st
Councilmember Reilly asked for a swim team update,
and Councilmember Spiro acknowledged RCHS' Interact
Club's support of the Boys and Girls Club as well
as their efforts to collect money for art supplies.
She requested the names of the club members
involved in these efforts.
9. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATED STUDENTS, INC.,
REPRESENTATIVE:
Representative Senior Brian Talbot provided the ASI
report, which included the following:
*Mr. Talbot will meet with the Chamber of Commerce
tomorrow to discuss plans for the Youth Park
*Spring Break at SSU, April 10 -14
*Earth Week 2000 at SSU, April 17 -22. Events
include 4/19 Recycle Faire, noon; 4/20
Environmental Technology Expo, noon; 4/22 Friends
of Copeland Creek, 9:30 -3:00 p.m. -tree planting
*ASI meeting, April 17, noon
*Sonoma Earth Action, www.somona.edu /clubs /sea
10. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
Vice Mayor Mackenzie stated that in compliance with
State law (The Brown Act), citizens wishing to make
a comment may do so at this time (limited to 3 -5
minutes per appearance with a 30- minute.total time
limit). No one responded.
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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11. CONSENT CALENDAR:
Vice Mayor Mackenzie 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 Vice Mayor
signified removal of three Consent Calendar items
fnr fiirt-hPr r9i c�r-riic4ci nn ac fnl l nw.c • Racnl iii -inn NTnc
2000 -71 and 2000 -75 per - Councilmember`Reilly's 0VN
recommendation; and Item B, Approval of Bills, per
Councilmember Spiro's recommendation.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report-on
the posting of the meeting's agenda
Accepting Cash /Investments Report for Month End,
February 29, 2000 concurrently for:
*City of Rohnert Park /City Council
*Community Development Commission
*Rohnert Park Financing Authority
Resolution Nos.:
2000 -68 PROCLAIMING THE WEEK OF APRIL 15TH AS
"EARTH WEEK" AND APRIL 22ND AS "EARTH DAY"
2000 -69 DECLARING THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 2000 AS . "TAKE
OUR DAUGHTERS TO WORK DAY"
2000 -70 ACCEPTING COMPLETION AND DIRECTING CITY
ENGINEER TO FILE NOTICE OF COMPLETION,
COPELAND CREEK BIKE PATH, PROJECT NO.
1998 -07
2000 -72 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR FOUNTAIN
AND VENDING EQUIPMENT AND BEVERAGE SUPPLIES
2000 -73 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR TRAFFIC
CONTROLLER UPGRADE AT VARIOUS INTERSECTIONS
THROUGHOUT THE CITY
2000 -74 AUTHORIZING A CERTAIN CLASSIFICATION AND
SALARY ADJUSTMENT FOR A CITY POSITION
2000 -76 REJECTING THE CLAIM OF ARDITH TERRIS, C/O
GORDON THOMAS, ATTORNEY (RE ALLEGED
PHYSICAL INJURY FROM CRUMBLING CURB)
Ordinance for Adoption:
No. 656 AMENDING CHAPTER 10.84 TO THE ROHNERT PARK
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ABANDONED
VEHICLES
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by
Councilmember Reilly, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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absent, and with the exception of Resolution Nos.
2000 -71 and 2000 -75 and Item B, Approval of the
Bills, the Consent Calendar as otherwise outlined on
the meeting's agenda was unanimously approved.
Item for consideration: ITEM B
Approval of Bills /Demands for Payment concurrently
for:
*City of Rohnert Park /City Council in the
amount of $671,517.49
*Community Development Commission in the
amount of $37,468,855.50
Councilmember Spiro asked about the status of
approving the bills after they have gone out in
light of the fact that there is no City Manager's
Report on the agenda. City Manager Netter replied
that staff is working on a new policy addressing
this issue.
Upon motion by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilmember Flores, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, Item B, Approval of Bills, was unanimously
approved.
Resolution for consideration:
ACCEPTING GRANT DEED FOR DEDICATION OF RIGHT OF WAY
ALONG 6603 & 6635 REDWOOD DRIVE
Councilmember Reilly pointed out that the cover
letter for the resolution reflects 6603 & 6635
"Commerce," and that it should be corrected to read
6603 & 6635 Redwood Drive for clarification.
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, Resolution No. 2000 -71 was unanimously
approved.
Resolution for consideration:
AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 99 -212 RELATING TO CLAIMS
FOR FIRE ASSESSMENT REFUNDS FOR FISCAL YEARS 97 -98
AND 98 -99
City Manager Netter indicated that he is working
out language for a slight modification in a letter
regarding claims for fire assessment refunds. The
City Attorney will revise the sentence to indicate
that current owners who were paid the assessment
will be notified that the previous owner who had
paid the bill shall be the responsible party for
obtaining the refund.
*City Council /Community Development Commission /Rohnert
Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded.by
Councilmember Spiro, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, a motion to approve Resolution No. 2000 -75,
subject to City Attorney Strauss' revisions of the
letter, was unanimously approved.
12. RECREATION DEPARTMENT MATTER:
Assessment and Report on Organizational
Opportunities
Staff Report: Recreation Director Tim Barry shared
the contents of the report, including a two -part
presentation on (1)the status of recommendations
made by Carl Clark of Dynamic Leadership Associates
in 1998 regarding the management of the Recreation
Department, and (2)the Department's restructuring
efforts of the past year and a half and its goals
for the future. Of note for 2000, he discussed
Community Center improvements; the development of a
marketing.plan; coordination of activities between
the P.A.C., Sports Center and Community Center;
forming community partnerships; upgrading
technology; and developing programs for at -risk
youth. He thanked the Council for their support,
in particular, for items regarding youth.
Council discussion: Councilmember Flores noted the
need for funding to further the status of some
projects and asked Recreation Director Barry to
give the Council a baseline of the minimum amount
they could approve for various efforts.
Councilmember Reilly commented on the at -risk youth
programs, encouraging the Recreation Department to
keep.coming up with new ideas to tackle the problem
of at -risk youth. He noted that he looks forward
.to the PAL Building where teenagers can drop in, as
well as the Benecia Park Youth Center for middle-
school age children, set to begin renovation this
fall. Councilmember Spiro also noted her support
for the teen and youth center buildings. Vice
Mayor Mackenzie commended Recreation Director Barry
for the Department's efforts to coordinate
activities between the Sports Center, Community
Center and the P.A.C. Mr. Barry, in turn,
commended his staff.
In continuing his report, Recreation Director Barry
commented on the Department's re- structuring and
planning efforts. He noted his interest in certain
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(9 )
title changes and read
Organizational Values.
Goals and Objectives,
activity guides, staff
Swimming Pool, the two
marketing program.
the Department's
He also read the 2000 -01
Nhich covered software,
training, the Magnolia Park
teen centers and a
Noting the Department's commitment to be
responsive to the residents' concerns,
Councilmember Flores thanked Recreation Director
Barry for scheduling public hearings regarding the
topic of dog parks. Councilmember Spiro noted that
she has not received any complaint calls. She also
raised the issue of a statistical analysis to
identify the number of Cotati residents using
Rohnert Park facilities, which was brought up
at the March 30th 2x2x2 Meeting. Councilmember
Flores and City Manager Netter noted that the issue
of a statistical analysis and the purpose of such
analysis was only a brainstorming idea from the
interim City Manager of Cotati. City Manager Netter
indicated that the 2x2x2 Meeting will be further
discussed under "Council Reports."
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, a motion to receive and accept the status
and responses of the Carl Clark report for the
Recreation Department was unanimously approved.
13. ARTICLE XXXIV BALLOT MEASURE CONSIDERATION:
Staff Report:
Council discussion /direction:
Council concurred to DEFER this issue until the
full Council is present to discuss it.
RECESS: Vice Mayor Mackenzie declared a recess at
approximately 8:50 p.m.
RECONVENE: Vice Mayor Mackenzie reconvened the Council
at approximately 8:55 p.m. with all
Councilmembers present.
14. COUNCIL YEAR 2000 PROJECT:
Matters related to the General Plan process, if any
General Plan Oversight Committee update: (VVM /JM)
Vice Mayor Mackenzie discussed the General Plan
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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April 11, 2000 Page(10)
Proposed Hearing Dates, reminding Councilmembers to
let him know at the 4/25 Council meeting if they
have any conflicts. He noted Wednesday, June 14,
would be Council's opportunity to present changes
in the General Plan and EIR, followed by one final
meeting of the ad hoc committee to consider all
changes brought forward by the Council.
Councilmember Spiro inquired about implementation
of the proposed changes, if any, by the Council to
the General Plan and EIR, to which Vice Mayor
Mackenzie explained that by the July 25th Council
Hearing, it is hoped that all changes from the
Council and Planning Commission will come forward
in a final document.
City Manager Netter noted that the Draft Housing
Element, which was out of synchronization with the
rest of the plan and which has a specific time
period for review by HCD, will likely be
distributed to the Council before the proposed May
23rd date, and any substantial changes will require
it to be recirculated.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie suggested that General Plan
Coordinator Vicki Hill be present at the next
Council meeting to facilitate an agendized Council
discussion on the.General Plan, EIR and any proposed
changes. Per Councilmember Spiro's suggestion, the
Draft Housing Element should be added to that
discussion to allow Councilmembers to have an input
and express final concerns before the document is
circulated.
In an effort to bring to an end the short -term
aspect of this working group, Vice Mayor Mackenzie
announced.tomorrow's, public meeting at 2:00 for the
City /County group for Rohnert Park's General Plan.
They will review the community separator policies,
transportation and the status of Canon Manor.
Though tomorrow may mark the end of these General
Plan policy working sessions, he noted that they
hope to continue this type of working group into
.the future years for purposes of coordination.
Councilmember Reilly noted his feelings on this
entire process. He discussed his problem with
getting bits and pieces of information, making
comments and sending them back to the committee.
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He advised staff and the committee to consider
coming up with a process that would best represent
the various positions, and then to take their chance
in a full Council meeting.
Councilmember Spiro discussed a document that came
out on the General Plan recently in which a
Councilmember projected a 3 -2 vote on an issue.
She expressed her feeling that such projections
are inappropriate and could be exclusionary as well
as inaccurate.
15. COUNCIL, COMMITTEE AND /OR OTHER REPORTS:
1.2x2x2 School District /Cities (VVM /AF)
Councilmember Flores referred Council to the
comprehensive report they received from the 2x2x2
meeting which he attended along with Mayor Vidak-
Martinez, City Manager Netter, two
representatives from the City of Cotati and two
representatives from the Cotati /Rohnert Park
School District. In particular, he elaborated on
three topics discussed at the meeting: (1) the
possibility of a recreational partnership as a
savings for the City of Cotati as well as the
City of Rohnert Park; (2)the Council's concerns
over closed playgrounds, as well as the School
Board's concerns, notably possible vandalism, and
an upcoming written report from the School Board,
on this issue; (3) the financial participation by
the City of Cotati with the Library project, with
an emphasis on consideration of dispatch services
to meet that need and also raise revenue for
Rohnert Park's estimated $1 million shortage of
funds for Library amenities; and (4)Rohnert
Park's request that a more meaningful traffic
study be done at the various schools, especially
Creekside Middle School and Rancho Cotate High
School on Snyder Lane.
Councilmember Reilly requested more information
on the upcoming "Stretching Our Dollars"
Conference to determine whether or not it is an
approved organization and conference that the City
pays for. He also requested more information
about the possibility of joint grant writing
projects, particularly in terms of expenses to the
City. City Manager Netter informed him that any
individual grant that would be a partnership would
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
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April 11, 2000 Page(12)
be brought before the Council.
Councilmember Spiro noted her desire to work
together with the School District, as well as her
disappointment as far as the lack of response
regarding the use of playgrounds during off
hours. She pointed out that the issue of opening
playgrounds was brought up over a year ago with
no specific response.
Upon further discussion, Council concurred to
direct the City Manager to send a letter, signed
by the Mayor, to the School Board requesting a
response by the first Council meeting in June
regarding the School District's policy, if any, on
schoolyard /playground access to the public after
school and throughout the summer months.
2.Refuse Disposal Sub - Committee (VVM /JM)
Vice Mayor Mackenzie discussed the Sub - Committee
meeting last Friday, the presentation by the
consultants, and the recommendation that the City
not get involved in the construction of a refuse
facility within the community, as well as the
question of going out with a request for a
proposal or similar mechanism rather than sole
sourcing the issue of refuse disposal.
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, a motion was approved to schedule a full
workshop with the consultants and staff to consider
their recommendations and to share their input.
James Landa, President. of Empire Waste Management,
was recognized and said that he was pleased with
the scheduling of a future workshop.
3.Sonoma County Tourism Investors Committee (VVM)
Council concurred to DEFER this item until the
Mayor is present to give her report.
4.New City Hall (JM /LS)
Vice Mayor Mackenzie discussed the meeting he had
with staff and the representative from Fisher -
Friedman Associates, noting that Councilmember
Spiro was unable to attend the meeting. He
referred to Fisher- Freidman's line drawing of the
proposed site and preliminary design for the new
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Park Financing Authority / Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority / Rohnert Park District
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City Hall. City Manager Netter elaborated on the
feasibility of building a city hall for under
$5 million, noting that the highest square footage
dollars are in the council chambers and the public
areas, the rest of the building being a standard
office building. He emphasized that preliminary
figures are coming in under $5 million, and that
at the next Council meeting, 4/25, he would hope
to formalize the contract with the architects for
the new City Hall so as to better synchronize it
with the time line for the Library so bidding
could be done at the same time on both projects.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie suggested Fisher - Friedman be
present at the next Council meeting to give a more
formal presentation.
Councilmember Spiro indicated that she went home
ill at the time the Council voted to have a
preliminary design made for the City Hall. She
further mentioned that due to the fact that she
did not support the project to begin with and
that the money could be better used elsewhere,
she asked for Vice Mayor Mackenzie to continue as
a committee of one or for herself to be replaced.
Upon further discussion, Council concurred to
formally ask the Mayor if she would like to serve
with Vice Mayor Mackenzie on the City Hall
Committee in place of Councilmember Spiro, and,
if not, then to replace Councilmember Spiro on
that committee with Councilmember Flores at his
request.
City Manager Netter responded to inquiries from
Councilmember Reilly for clarification as to the
costs of building each floor of the City Hall
project as reflected in the report.
5.New Library (VVM /AF)
Review on meeting with architect: Councilmember
Flores expressed his appreciation to City Manager
Netter and City Engineer Gaffney for their
diligence in monitoring the Library project to
keep it on schedule. He stated that the purpose
for the meeting with the architect was to make
sure that the reduction in scope of the Library
project did not cause any significant difficulties
with the functionality of the building as seen by
the Library consultant.
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(14)
Mural Committee Selection: Councilmember Flores
read the members who have been approved for the
Library Mural Committee, noting that the position
of Rohnert Park - Cotati Community Librarian will
remain vacant until the new librarian is
announced. The members are Gladys Baker
(Association for the Arts), Ruth Barrett (Library
Advisory Committee), Lynne Conde (Library Steering
Committee), Tim Danesi (Cultural Arts Commission),
Joe Gaffney (City Engineer), Hertzell Harrison
(Library Advisory Committee), Anita Levin
(Cultural Arts Commission), Richard Maher
(Association for the Arts), Chris Noll (Library
Architect) and Paula Young (Library Steering
Committee). He read the Mural Committee's
responsibilities and commented on the plans to
proceed with the finalization of the project.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie recognized Lynne Conde from
the Library Steering Committee and asked her to
come forward. She inquired about the reduction in
scope of the Library project, to which
Councilmember Flores explained that the aspects of
the project that the City had to reduce to keep
the cost of the project down met with the
satisfaction of the library consultant, keeping
the overall project intact. Ms. Conde then noted
that the Library Steering Committee would continue
to work to raise funds by applying for grants and
pursuing Prop 14 funds. She announced the
recently completed Web site, www.rpl.homepage.com,
as a means to raise funds, particularly from local
businesses. The Web site includes a list of
amenities which the Steering Committee would like,
a newsletter denoting the monthly progress, and a
list of donors, She thanked a few local
businesses who had recently made anonymous
donations to the Library project, and she remarked
on the Committee's interest in setting up a
tutoring program at the Library that would use
teenagers and possibly SSU students.
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, the Library Mural Committee as outlined
was unanimously approve.
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page (15)
6.Rohnert Park Stadium (AF /JR)
Councilmember Reilly shared contents of the
Stadium Subcommittee report. He pointed out that
the scope of work is still within the budget for
the improvement of handicap access and the snack
bar project, with the City financing the Crusher's
share of the cost which would be paid back over
three years. He then indicated that Bob Fletcher,
President of the Sonoma County Crushers, expressed
an interest for consideration of a lease extension
at least two years prior to the expiration of the
current lease in 2005. Councilmember Flores added
that Mr. Fletcher is appreciative of his relations
with the City of Rohnert Park and that he is
looking forward to a great season.
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by
Councilmember Flores, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez
absent, a recommendation to staff in the year
2002 to open negotiations on a possible contract
extension with the Crushers, along with a letter
indicating that, was unanimously approved.
7.Other, if any:
Wellness Center (LS)
Councilmember Spiro commented on the presentation
by the Wellness Center which she and Councilmember
Reilly attended. Councilmember Reilly remarked
that the Subcommittee and staff is working on
getting more focused as to what the original
intent of the dedication was and that no sooner
than May will they come back with a fuller
presentation.
16. TRANSPORTATION MATTERS:
Sonoma County Transportation Authority (SCTA), 4/10
Meeting
Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked City Manager Netter to
give Council clean copies of a 4/10 document which
gives details from Governor Davis' Transportation
Package for the North Bay and the North Coast. He
then commented on the SCTA Sub - Committee's report
on future sales tax proposals, touching on the
Sub - Committee's recommendation for SCTA to have a
lead role in drafting a transportation proposal for
the November 2000 ballot. Specifically, he talked
about the Sub - Committee's presenting a draft
proposal to the SCTA in May addressing, among other
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(16)
things, the viability of a 1/4 -cent sales tax, a
half -cent sales tax and a one -cent sales tax.
In response to Councilmember Spiro's inquiry about
SCTA's plan to get any sales tax passed when it has
failed on the two - thirds vote in the past no matter
what form it has been in, Vice Mayor Mackenzie
explained that there has been some indication that
a sales tax may be viable now due to a 1/4 -cent tax
being more acceptable, monies available for rail
since the election, and an improved plan this time
around since exit polls indicated it was the nature
of the plan that was lacking for a number of voters
back in November 1998.
17. COMMUNICATIONS:
Communications per the attached outline were brought
to the attention of the City Council.
Councilmember Spiro referred the Council to Item No.
20, the letter she wrote regarding railroad
crossings. She complimented the Councilmembers for
their interest and enthusiasm in the upgrading of the
railroad crossings, a project which has been in the
works . cue x.944. ,She thanked the Council and said
it was SOLD fault that it has taken so long for
such an important project to come to fruition. In
response to her inquiry about asphalt she saw on a
crossing recently, City Manager Netter informed her
that the asphalt is simply a temporary fix until a.
workable traffic plan is agreed on. He signified
that after a traffic plan is worked out, City
Engineer Gaffney is working on approval of a
construction agreement within a month, with the goal
of completing these railroad crossing upgrades
within the next several months.
"CuxKE(TION ABOVE from 4/25/00 City Counc"1 mn�eet*
Per Councilmemuer Linda Spiro �deleti.onglined out /addition inserted)
18. MATTERS FOR /FROM COUNCIL:
1. Policy on Travel - Hotels (JR)
Councilmember Reilly signified his ongoing
interest in finding out if the City has a policy
regarding time or distance travelled for City
business before an overnight hotel stay is
deemed necessary. City Manager Netter explained
that it is presently done on a case by case
basis, up to the discretion of the commissioners,
but subject to the review of the Councilmembers.
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City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(17)
He also asked for clarification as to which
department specifically was being referred to as
far as an overnight stay in Corte Madera.
Council concurred to direct staff to put the
issue of a travel policy for hotels on the
agenda as an action item.
EXTEND COUNCIL MEETING:
Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by
Councilmember Reilly, a motion to extend the meeting
past 10:00 p.m. to finish necessary agenda items was
approved, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez absent.
2. Decorum - Code of Ethics - Commissions (JR)
3. Attendance of Commissions (JR)
Council concurred to agendize Item 2, Decorum/
Code of Ethics, and Item 3, Attendance of
Commissions, on the next agenda. Vice Mayor
Mackenzie pointed out that he needs to set up a
meeting with the Mayor and that it will be
helpful to hear from the full Council on these
matters.
4. T's Academy Project (JR)
Councilmember Reilly referred to a letter in the
Council agenda packet, from the City to
Reverend Sam Tharpe, dated March 30, 2000. He
noted that the Council unanimously approved a
motion back in October 1999 to dedicate 3.3 acres
for the possibility of constructing T's Academy
as indicated in the letter. He noted last
weekend's auction as part of the efforts to
raise funds for the project. He inquired about
the status of the project and suggested putting
the project in a diagram or visual. He also
indicated that he would raise the issue of him
becoming the advisory liaison to Reverend
Tharpe's board with City Attorney Strauss.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie signified the staff's
interest in that project and other projects on
the west side of Highway 101.
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Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(18)
5. Emerald Point Parking (LS)
Councilmember Spiro inquired about the status of
the Emerald Point parking situation.. She pointed
out that she has.been receiving calls from
residents on that street who are interested in
parking in front of their own homes. City
Manager Netter referred to a memo from Ron
Bendorff, Interim Planning and Community
Development Director, dated April 6, 2000,
about progress on the situation. He added that
City Attorney Strauss is researching possible
violations of the required parking ratio, and
that the second alternative would be to issue
on- street parking permits. He said at the
next meeting he should have more information.
Councilmember Spiro also brought up the related
topic of reviewing the parking ordinance, which
she pointed out was done in 1973. She noted
that based on her observations, every condominium
project has overflow parking in the City. She
emphasized that it is important to review whether
or not the existing parking ordinance, though it
may be in code, is adequate and the right thing
for the community.
Council concurred to agendize the Emerald Point
parking issue and a review of the existing
Parking Ordinance at the next Council meeting.
6. Scheduled Public Appearances Policy (LS)
Councilmember Spiro mentioned that it was brought
to her attention that on four separate occasions
citizens.followed the present procedure to get a
scheduled public appearance and k were taken
off the agenda at the last moment. She asked
that the Council consider creating a written
policy outlining how a citizen schedules a public
�WD since she feels it is unfair and
atl towards the citizens who follow the
present procedure. She noted that scheduled
public appearances are a separate issue from any
discussion of the agenda format. She also asked
that all Councilmembers get a copy of the draft
resolution written by City Attorney Strauss so
they can each review it and make suggestions.
Lastly, she noted an upcoming surgery she will be
having, and she asked that Council defer any
discussion of this issue until she can be present
* *CORRECTIONS ABOVE from 4/25/00 City Council meeting:
Per Councilmember Linda Spiro (deletions lined out /
additions inserted)
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Authority /Rohnert Park District
City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page (19)
at such meeting.
Council concurred to agendize a full discussion
of the issue of scheduled public appearances and
a written procedural policy at the 4/25 Council
meeting, or the one thereafter, at such time as
Councilmember Spiro returns from her surgery,
and also * * c t e idstribute copies of City Attorney
Strauss' dSr t resolution to all Councilmembers.
* *CORRECTION ABOVE from 425/00 City Council meeting:
Per CouncilmembeT Linda Spiro(( ddition inserted)
Councilmember Reil y stated that he enjoyed this
evening's scheduled public appearance,
specifically the speech on volunteerism. He
further stated that it will be his intention to
pursue his feeling that when one goes to the
point of requesting a public appearance, that
appearance should be granted.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie expressed his strong feeling
that written policies are needed to guide the
Council, and that debate by Council over written
policies usually ends up with something
acceptable to all.
8. Review of Non - Profit Funding Requests by COYF
(LS)
Councilmember Spiro expressed her interest in
having the Council look at the issue of using
COYF to serve as a body to review funding
requests.
Upon further discussion, Council concurred to
agendize this issue for a full Council
discussion as to determining a policy to use
COYF as a review body or not, with directions
to staff for a report on COYF's charter
regarding this issue.
8. Videotaping of Commission Meetings (LS)
Councilmember Spiro pointed out that in light of
this topic which came up at the last Council
meeting, she feels it is important to make a video
tape of commission meetings to serve as a
record and offer an option to looking at the
minutes.
Councilmember Flores shared his interest in
seeing an analysis of whether videotaping is
possible and what the expenses of it would be.
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Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
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April 11, 2000 Page(20)
City Manager Netter pointed out that videotaping
or live presentation of the meeting both involve
staff time and that there are not always spots to
run every meeting live.
Upon further discussion, Council concurred to
agendize the videotaping of commission meetings,
videotaped or live, and associated costs for full
Council discussion at a future Council meeting.
9. Railroad Crossings (VVM)
Vice Mayor Mackenzie signified that the previous
discussion on the upgrading of the City's
railroad crossings has brought the Council up to
date on this item.
10.Miscellaneous, if any
L Section Traffic Update (LS)
Councilmember Spiro referred to a call she
received from Greg Brogdin who would like to be
advised of the status of this issue. City
Manager Netter remarked that a speed survey from
the Public Safety Department was being analyzed
right now, and that the City has sent letters to
Golden Gate Transit and Sonoma County Transit,
advising them of the speed limit on Lancaster
Drive and telling them to slow down. He said
that staff will report back at the next Council
meeting on April 25th.
League Board of Directors Meeting (LS)
Councilmember Spiro advised Council that she is
working on a more indepth report on this meeting.
Mayoral Rotation (LS)
Councilmember Spiro expressed an interest in
checking out the mayoral rotation resolution for
clarity. Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked staff to
send a reminder to City Attorney Strauss to
discuss the mayoral rotation with him at a
future date.
Commissioner's Affair Event
City Manager Netter announced that the
Commissioner's Affair Event will be Friday, May
12th. He asked the Councilmembers to see if
that date would work for them.
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City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS Minutes
April 11, 2000 Page(21)
19. OTHER UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES:
None.
Vice Mayor Mackenzie thanked Council because it was
his first time to conduct the meeting. He noted his
added appreciation for what it means to try to
participate in debate, pay attention to the timing
of the meeting, and also exercise constraints and be
polite. Council commended him on his efforts.
There being no further business, Vice Mayor Mackenzie
adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:25 p.m.
Katy Leonard, Jake Mackenzie,
Certified Shorthand Reporter Ma or Pro Tempore /
CSR No. 11599
*City Council /Community Development Commission /Rohnert
Park Financing Authority /Rohnert Park Housing Financing
Authority /Rohnert Park District