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2000/05/23 City Council MinutesCITY OF ROHNERT PARK CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES for: CITY COUNCIL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION ROHNERT PARK FINANCING AUTHORITY May 23, 2000 Tuesday The concurrent meetings of the City of Rohnert Park for the City Council, the Community Development Commission and the Rohnert Park Financing Authority met this date in regular session for a regular meeting commencing at 6:00 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with Mayor Vidak- Martinez presiding. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Vidak- Martinez called the regular session to order at approximately 6:45 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance. ROLL CALL: Present: (5) Councilmembers Flores, Reilly, Spiro; Vice Mayor Mackenzie; and Mayor Vidak- Martinez Absent: ( 0 ) None Staff present for'all or part of the meeting: City Manager Netter, City Attorney Strauss, Assistant City Manager Leivo, City Engineer Gaffney, Associate Planner Bendorff and Recreation Director Barry. Councilmember Spiro leaves -- Councilmember Spiro left the chamber after the Closed Session report at approximately 6:47 p.m. 1. CLOSED SESSION: Mayor Vidak- Martinez 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 Vice Mayor Mackenzie, with Councilmember Spiro absent, the minutes of May 9, 2000 were approved 4 -0 with the noted amendment below. City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(2 ) Mayor Vidak- Martinez: (1)Page 19, last paragraph, "half a million dollars" should be changed to "two million dollars." 3. COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS, IF ANY (INFORMATIONAL ONLY) Mayor Vidak- Martinez asked the Councilmembers if there were any informational communications to add to the a C"7 e n(da T\Tn i i'cmc cn�o ro �iq ri �J� + +.�.... +.v +. ... v...v •rvy� l.tuul. l..1 lAV 1.1111.) Vllllt.. 4. YOUTH REPRESENTATIVES TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM HIGH SCHOOL 1999 -2000 YOUTH OF THE YEAR PROGRAM SELECTIONS: Senior Janelle Sahouria and Juniors Samantha Tabacco and Alex Teicheira were recognized. Ms. Sahouria shared the contents of the Youth Report, which included the following: *Rancho Cotati High School Graduation Ceremony will be held on June 9th at 6:00 p.m. All are invited to attend. Some seniors will be heading to U.C. Davis, U.C. Berkeley and various CSU's. *RCHS Talent Show is being held tonight at SSU. *Senior Scholarship Awards Ceremony will be held on June 1st at Spreckels Community Center. *RCHS environmental club, SAVE (Students Against a Violated Earth), will be donating $500 to a local environmental organization. *National Honor Society recently held a successful beach clean -up. They need service project ideas, and they would like to thank Buddies Pizza for donating pizzas. *RCHS' The Catamount recently won 5th place at the National Convention for Journalism Education Association for a newspaper magazine. It also won 1st place at the Press Democrat's Redwood Empire Journalism Association for Best Newspaper with the best overall score. *Tech High program at RCHS a success in its first year, with plans to expand from 60 to 400 students as it prepares young people for work in the technical and business world. *PAL Building Teen Center is under way, fully backed, and plans are for it to be ready by this fall. Mr. Teicheira initiated a discussion about two articles by James W. Sweeney in the May 14th edition of the Press Democrat; one about the delay on the Expressway overpass, and the other about proposed water metering in Rohnert Park. On the overpass issue, Councilmember Flores said *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(3 ) that Sonoma County will continue to fight in the legislature to get votes and money for transportation. Councilmember Reilly explained the two projects going on at the Expressway site, while Vice Mayor Mackenzie elaborated on the shortfall in the monies for transportation in Sonoma County. On the water metering issue, Councilmember Reilly indicated that he would not support water meters until it is proven that Rohnert Park uses too much water and needs them. Councilmember Flores noted that the residents of Rohnert Park have been very conscientious in managing water. At Councilmember Reilly's suggestion, Mayor Vidak- Martinez explained why the Youth Report is a standing item on the Council's agenda, the Youth of the Year program, the School Board's student representative, and the importance of youth having a place to report out to the community on various youth - related activities. Councilmember Flores thanked graduating senior Janelle Sahouria for her reports over the past few years and wished her well in her future endeavors. 5. SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATED STUDENTS, INC.: No representative from the Associated Students, Inc., was present for this evening's meeting to report on university activities of interest. At the request of Vice Mayor Mackenzie, Council concurred to send a letter from the Council thanking the ASI representatives, particularly graduating ASI rep Brian Talbot, for representing the Sonoma State students so well over the course of the past year. 6. SCHEDULED APPEARANCE /PRESENTATION: Sister Cities Committee Report and ReQuests - Rebecca Rishe President: Ms. Rishe gave a very brief summary of her trip to Hashimoto last month. As a member of the Sister Cities Committee, she made five requests for Council to consider: (1)Notify the Sister Cities Committee of the date of completion for the Japanese "Garden" in Rohnert Park so they can have Hashimoto's Sister City Society plan their trip to Rohnert Park next year at the same time; (2)Consider ideas for more interaction between City staff and the visitors from Hashimoto for next year's visit; (3)Consider providing a scholarship for a child or even two students to go to Japan in 2.002 as *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(4 ) part of an exchange program between Rohnert Park and Hashimoto; (4)Consider appointing a new member from the City to replace Mike Harrow on the S.C. Committee; (5) Consider Japanese interpreter Keiko Makino for appointment to the S.C. Committee as she has indicated an interest. 7. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES: Mayor 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 limit). 1. Don Huberty, 296 Circulo Puebla, discussed the idea of a bulletproof police security shield to better protect the officers and allow them time to gather facts rather than use deadly force in certain situations. He asked for Council's input in writing on how they feel about police shields so he can proceed with this concept. 2. John Hudson, 399 Bonnie Avenue, talked about how the proposal to put water meters in Rohnert Park runs afoul of Proposition 218. Under a section of Prop 218, he discussed how citizens have a right by initiative to control rates for any kind of locally imposed tax assessment fee or charge. He also conveyed his feeling that the real reason for the push for water meters is to allow developers to build more houses, which will ultimately make matters worse. 3. Kenny Sullivan, 382 Bruce Avenue, asked Council to look into allowing City employees, not just full -time employees, "free" gym membership at the Sports Center. He noted that he works 1500 hours per fiscal year, but due to his part -time job title of "Recreation Leader," he must pay the newly raised gym membership fee of $70. He also pointed out that not all full -time members use their "free" membership, so there would not be a significant loss of money to the City. ************************* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** 8. CONSENT CALENDAR: Mayor Vidak- Martinez asked if there were any questions regarding the matters on the Consent Calendar, which *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(5 ) were explained in the City Manager's Council Meeting Memo. The Mayor signified removal of three Consent Calendar items for further discussion as follows: Resolution 2000 -97 per Councilmember Flores' recommendation; and Resolutions 2000 -99 and 2000 -111 per Councilmember Reilly's recommendation. Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the meeting's agenda Approval of Bills /Demands for Payment for the City of Rohnert Park /City Council in the amount of $868,961.27 Accepting Cash /Investments Report for Month End, March 31, 2000 concurrently for: *City of Rohnert Park /City Council *Community Development Commission * Rohnert Park Financing Authority Resolution Nos.: 2000 -98 REQUESTING THAT THE CALIFORNIA STATE LEGISLATURE ALLOCATE $2 BILLION FOR REPAIR OF LOCAL STREETS AND ROADS 2000 -100 CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR ROHNERT PARK EXPRESSWAY INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT III, PROJECT NO. 1991 -04 2000 -101 EXTENDING THE BID OPENING DATE AND TIME FOR REPLACEMENT FLOORING AT THE SENIOR CENTER 2000 -102 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL CONTROLLER UPGRADE 2000 -103 AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR FOUNTAIN AND VENDING EQUIPMENT AND BEVERAGE SUPPLIES 2000 -104 APPROVING CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH C2 ALTERNATIVES SERVICES TO IMPLEMENT COMMERCIAL AND MULTI- FAMILY RECYCLING EDUCATION PROGRAM 2000 -105 APPROVING THE AMENDED JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY AGREEMENT OF THE REDWOOD EMPIRE MUNICIPAL INSURANCE FUND (REMIF) 2000 -106 APPROVING AGREEMENT WITH MHA ASSOCIATES, INC., FOR ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES 2000 -107 AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING THE CALIFORNIA LOCAL GOVERNMENT RECORDS RETENTION GUIDELINES AS RECORDS MANAGEMENT GUIDELINES FOR THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 2000 -108 ADOPTING INVESTMENT POLICY FOR IDLE FUNDS *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(6 ) 2000 -109 AUTHORIZING HOURLY PAY RANGE AND RATE ADJUSTMENTS FOR CERTAIN LIMITED SERVICE POSITIONS THAT ARE TEMPORARY, SEASONAL AND /OR PART -TIME 2000 -110 RATIFYING THE MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT WITH THE SERVICE EMPLOYEES INTERNATIONAL UNION (SEIU) LOCAL 707 Ratifv annroval of donations Membership to Pools and a Center Membership for Son, Youth Development (SCAYD) Relay Challenge of a_ Ammar Family one -year individual Sports Dma County Associates for for the 9th Annual 24 -Hour Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with the exceptions of Resolution Nos. 2000 -97, 2000 -99 and 2000 -111, and with Councilmember Spiro absent, the Consent Calendar as otherwise outlined on the meeting's agenda was approved 4 -0. Resolution for consideration: PROCLAIMING JUNE 14, 2000 "NATIONAL FLAG DAY" AND JUNE 12- 18,2000 AS "NATIONAL FLAG WEEK" Councilmember Flores stressed the importance of National Flag Day and Week and asked that citizens be mindful of the residents who have given their lives in honor of our national flag. Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, with Councilmember Spiro absent, Resolution No. 2000 -97 was adopted 4 -0. Resolution for consideration: AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 99 -68 ESTABLISHING POLICY FOR THE ROTATION OF THE COUNCILMEMBERS INTO THE OFFICE OF MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK Councilmember Reilly signified that he wished to abstain from voting on this resolution. He pointed out that the present informal rotation into the mayoral seat could work if continued. As the drafter of the resolution, Vice Mayor Mackenzie stated for the record that the definition of the "member with the longest seniority" shall be the member with the most consecutive, uninterrupted city council terms including the then current term. He further noted that his intent in drafting the resolution was to introduce some order into the rotation of the Councilmembers into the office of Mayor. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page (7 ) Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with Councilmember Reilly dissenting, and with Councilmember Spiro absent, Resolution No. 2000 -99 was adopted 3 -1. Resolution for consideration: REJECTING THE CLAIM OF HENRY KRUPINSKY, C/O ELIZABETH ANN REIFLER, ATTORNEY (RE: ALLEGED EMOTIONAL INJURIES FROM INTERACTION WITH GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY) Councilmember Reilly inquired about the names of the City employees who had been involved in a Golden Gate Transit work - related incideF of C em to na r Netter indicated that the claim is /�Golien �atye Trraansit�=s= and that it is the responsibility of the City Attorney to respond back to any misrepresentations in the claim. *CORRECTION ABOVE from 6/13/00 City Council mtg: oellfton lined out)(a d ounimem ere e . Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded y Councilmember Flores, with Councilmember Spiro absent, Resolution No. 2000 -111 was adopted 4 -0. ************************* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** Councilmember Spiro returns -- Councilmember Spiro returned to the chamber after the Consent Calendar at approximately 7:20 p.m. 9. PLANNING AND ZONING MATTERS: 1. File No. 1854 - A.G. Spanos Corporation - Consideration of Site Plan and Architectural Plan approval of a 200 -unit apartment complex to be constructed at 120 Golf Course Drive. Staff Report /Traffic Consultant: Associate Planner Bendorff discussed the hydrogeologic study, which is a part of the General Plan /EIR. He indicated that staff is still researching the parking concerns raised by Council at the May 9th meeting, but until such time the review is completed, the existing multi - family parking ratio will remain in effect. At the request of Vice Mayor Mackenzie, City Engineer Gaffney gave a summary report on his assessment of the implications of the hydrogeologic study for the Spanos project. The City Engineer indicated that with the Sonoma County Water Agency's aqueduct allocation and with the recommendations that the consultant has made for the proper management of the groundwater basin, he sees Rohnert Park as having an adequate supply of water for projects within the existing City limits. He also clarified for Councilmember Flores that once the Water *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(8 ) Agency puts in place its expansion to the aqueduct system, the aqueduct will become the primary source of water and the wells will become the back -up system. Regarding the traffic report, Councilmember Flores asked about the level of services projected for the intersections based on the population that will be generated by the Spanos project. Traffic consultant Da l PnP Wh i t 1 nrk of Tn7h; t l r,r,>r r_ TAT_; , I.., m,,..-. 4 ,. _1 - -- .--- - - - — — . 11 - 1.a.v — �x rr t..1111JC1 yc.L 1 t Q 11 ' L.J V L I. Q 1, 1 V 11, Inc., indicated that there would be less than a one - second impact on the level of service at the intersections. In response to Councilmember Spiro's inquiry about when the traffic studies were conducted, Ms. Whitlock indicated that the calculations indicate the date and time when the intersection turning movements were taken. She pointed out that one study was done on September 14, 1999, in the a.m. and the p.m. Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked for clarification on the weekend traffic conditions since that was one of the concerns of the citizens in the north end of town. Ms. Whitlock indicated that a weekend traffic analysis was not done, and that data for trip generation on weekends was not that good. In response to Councilmember Spiro, Ms. Whitlock also indicated that the standard trip generation rates were based on the number of units, not the number of people that will be living in those units. PUBLIC HEARING: Mayor Vidak- Martinez opened the public hearing at approximately 7:35 p.m. Citizen submitted speaker cards and shared verbal and /or written comments expressing support or opposition to the planning and zoning matters of the A G Spanos Corporation proposed project. (Resolution for adoption, No. 2000 -112; and Ordinance for introduction, No. 657) SUPPORT 1. Tom Allen, 1341 West Robinhood Drive, Stockton, Representative of the A.G. Spanos Corporation OPPOSE 2. Leland Kolb, 4627 Fairway Drive OPPOSE 3. Lois Lindstrom, 4507 Fairway Drive OPPOSE 4. Dave Mochel, 4405 Hollingsworth Circle, Planning Commission OPPOSE 5. Hertzel Harrison, 4413 Hamlet Court SUPPORT 6. Susan Adams, 1413 Gold Way (Distributed handout) SUPPORT 7. Tom Miller, 1223 Hermitage Way, Chamber of Commerce representative, lifelong resident of ° 9-k- since 1946 *C 0 R R E C T 1 0 N ABOVE FROM 6/13/00 City Council meeting: Per Councilmember Linda Spiro (deletion lined out /addition inserted) *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(9 ) SUPPORT 8. Pat Miller, 4959 Fern Place, representing the Board of Realtors SUPPORT 9. Richard Perani, 4685 Fairway Drive, 31 -year resident SUPPORT 10. George Steffensen, 821 Santa Dorotea Circle SUPPORT 11. Tamara Davis, 903 Hacienda Circle, Chair of Government Affairs Committee, Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce OPPOSE 12. Larry Roudebush, 308 Firethorn SUPPORT 13. Christopher Sweeney, 14185 "B" Old Caledero, Guerneville SUPPORT 14. Kurt Maness, 963 Ellen Court SUPPORT 15. T. Kay Nash, 14185 Old Caladero, Guerneville OPPOSE 16. Richard Endreszl, 4490 Filbert Court SUPPORT 17. Bob Lewis, 4590 Fairway Drive, 17 -year resident SUPPORT 18. Jeff Rodrigues, 6056 Diane Court SUPPORT 19. Kathleen Smith, 5706 Dexter Circle SUPPORT 20. Robin Bleckwehl, 5000 Roberts Lake Road, CEO, Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce (Distributed handout) OPPOSE 21. Bob Weil, 193 Fescue Way, 15 -year resident SUPPORT 22. Jason Griffin, 1355 Garmount Court OPPOSE 23. Charles Kitchen, 4457 Hollingsworth Circle SUPPORT 24. Mark Robinson, Box 7061, Cotati SUPPORT 25. Bill Barbour, 1341 West Robinhood Drive, Stockton, of the A.G. Spanos Corporation There being no one further desiring to speak, Mayor Vidak- Martinez closed the public hearing at approximately 8:27 p.m. Questions and remarks stemming from public comments included: *Proposed project provides dearly needed work force housing and is in close proximity to jobs and services and transportation. *Will Sonoma State's plans to expand student housing affect the availability of water to the City? *Why in view of the traffic /water /sewer issues with this project has a separate EIR not been required? *There are technical problems with the traffic report, especially the one - second delay projection. *Project will create visual blight and pollution. *Is the project really necessary with many SSU students moving back onto the campus with the additional housing? *These projects are unpopular, but necessary to meet the housing needs in Rohnert Park. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(10) *It is an in -fill project that meets the proposed General Plan guidelines. *Families are in dire need of housing in Rohnert Park, and many young Rohnert Park residents are buying homes in Santa Rosa because none are available in the City. *Sonoma County has exceeded San Jose in job increases. *Undeveloped land on Golf Course Drive is unsightly and will not go away. *Wr -,ig earn tho r,iinryi 1 ____4 ---I .+- 1- a — . +�•• I J u.7 L_ l..l i Gi llge l.11C GV111.11y laws? *Can't the project be moved to another location? *Young people have to move to Windsor and Guerneville and drive to Rohnert Park to visit their families and friends because they cannot find a place to live in town. *Golf Course section of Rohnert Park should bear its fair share of apartments in Rohnert Park. *Traffic on the weekends is mostly Santa Rosa and Petaluma residents shopping here in Rohnert Park. *A few extra seconds at a stoplight is not that bad compared to Santa Rosa. *Small employers, in addition to the 300 employers represented by the Chamber of Commerce, need work force housing too. *Height of buildings could be limited to two stories and project could be sized down. *Why not cut out some of the money for the park for the library project and buy this land? *Two stories is much too small for this site. *Increased zoning for this project prevents urban sprawl. Council discussion: Councilmember Flores discussed the American dream of buying one's own home, and he expressed his disappointment over young couples leaving the community because they cannot find a home or apartment to rent. He commented on Rohnert Park's critical need for a supply of rental housing. He noted that traffic impacts in the proposed site area are negligible compared to traffic in Richmond on the way to Oakland, and that the increase in water usage by half a percent is negligible after the increased allocations from the Sonoma County Water Agency take effect. He discussed how the project is close to four different transportation systems, how the project will use reclaimed water for irrigation, and how the project will contribute $250,000 to affordable housing. He pointed out that if approved, the project would open up much needed housing. Finally, he thanked the audience for *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(11) being respectful to each other and to diverse points of view. Councilmember Reilly indicated that he was initially more comfortable with this project when it was proposed for the west side of town. He raised the issue of some in -fill projects at small sites on East Cotati Avenue and how it was argued at the time that those projects would have too great an impact on East Cotati Avenue. He said the Spanos project would eliminate the possibility of a light rail station at the bowling alley. He sympathized with the need for housing, and he commented on the vested interest of homeowners in the area. He also remarked that a traffic study on a weekday is not a true study. He stressed the need to build the infrastructure first, and then bring the projects in. He commented on the need for road improvements in the area and the need to address the water table problems now. Finally, he noted that if the Spanos project were to generate two to three million dollars for infrastructure projects, he would be more interested in supporting it. Vice Mayor Mackenzie commended the community for the way they laid out their points of view to the Council. He indicated that he is aware of the need for housing in the community and he has attended meetings pertaining to that subject, but he said that these companies need to put forward some of their megabucks to solve the problems of traffic, 101, affordable housing and the new economy in general on Rohnert Park. He discussed how the failure of the scattered East Cotati Avenue projects was not the fault of the Council. He stated that his original request for a provision for affordable housing was not responded to in a manner that would be consistent with what the Council would be debating on later during the draft Housing Element workshop. He agreed with Councilmember Reilly that there should be adequate public facilities in Rohnert Park before further public development occurs. Finally, he stated that he would not approve an amendment to the General Plan Land Use Map because the project is not responsive to affordable housing and it is not walkable. Councilmember Spiro pointed out that she is the only renter on the Council, and she said she is aware of how difficult the rental market is in the City. She stated that while she sees the need for this in -fill project and while she wants to support it, she is concerned with *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(12) the quality of life for the residents of Rohnert Park, particularly those in the immediate area of the proposed site. She said her biggest concern is the insufficient parking, and she read an excerpt from the draft Housing Element indicating that based on the State's statistics, renters, as opposed to owners, are three times more likely to be overcrowded in rentals. She concluded by saying that without additional parking to deal. with the overflow, she cannot support a project which she otherwise sees a great need for. Mayor Vidak- Martinez expressed her support for the project. She indicated that many people in the City need a decent place to live and that it's a competent, tastefully arranged, in -fill project which is oriented to transportation. She noted that the City is a declining enrollment school district and that the $250,000 contribution from Spanos for affordable housing could possibly have been put into a fund to provide mortgage assistance for people to buy homes all over Rohnert Park. She discussed how the State controls freeway entrances and exits. She concluded by noting that she does not believe in an exclusionist approach to government, but rather that she welcomes new neighbors and new talent in the community. Vice Mayor Mackenzie reemphasized his belief that the community has to adopt a General Plan that requires a 15% affordable housing allocation. Tom Allen of the Spanos Corporation responded to Councilmember Flores' suggestion to reduce the scope of the project to 184 units, thus eliminating the General Plan amendment and rezoning as well as some other subsequent changes. Councilmember Spiro indicated that even at 184 units, the 2.2 parking ratio still was not adequate in her opinion. City Attorney Strauss further clarified the two alternatives before the Council if the number of units were to be lowered to 184. *RH�3-fi# -�'E3R - �-@ @•@-° �----- �' ppr�vi�q-- a�- �ntes�.- dxnexit- v�-- thz-- E3encr�t�- �i-a�t - - -- ------- - - - - -- - - - - - - -- -------- - - - - -� Derr ev a - end --C-e €tee at fear --ems € - -ft------------- ---------- - - -- -€ems - ar ----- - - - - -- ------------ - -A-13 - g - Pre�e-&tt----------------- - - - - -- Councilmember Flores made a motion to approve the project with 184 units and further attention given to the parking concerns. Vice -Mayor Mackenzie seconded the motion. The motion failed 2 -3 with Councilmember Flores and Mayor Vidak Martinez voting in favor; Vice -Mayor Mackenzie, Councilmember Reill and Councilmember Spiro voting against. *CORRECTION ABOVE FROM 6/13 &27/00 City Council mtgs: Per Council concurrence at 6/13/00 mtg. for City Attorney Strauss to review the 5/23/00 mtg. video to determine what the actual motion was & whether the Council acted correctly. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authorityy ABOVE motion replaces the following motion at the top of pg..13, as concurred by the City Council at the 6/27/00 mtg.following City Attorney's review of the s /?,A /nn ,,,re .r; for. K Ct70S1pCtp_d changes to these minutes (deletion lined out/ City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(13) *- Ub��ei�- ���=- F�� -r-e�s ;-- eeeo��d�ee�- �- �- ce�- - - - - -- -£ �ay�- Ni�ae�e��- i- e•-- �- i- �1� --e- �ee�t�t��- elo�art -tom- �����- �ai -�e� o----------- - - - - -- t =j6/13&27/00 City Council mtgs: Per Council concurrence. *CORRECTION ABOVE FRO (See motion replacing above deleted motion on preceding pg.12 and review of Council concurrence of this correction). 2. File No. 1799: Wilfred /Dowdell Specific Plan Approval Process Update: Associate Planner Bendorff discussed the three potential ways that staff could proceed in this matter. Basically, staff may proceed with the current Specific Plan and, if necessary, amend the plan after the area is annexed to the City; revise the Specific Plan; or include Wilfred /Dowdell in the Northwest Area Specific Plan with direction to evaluate the proposed Wilfred /Dowdell.Plan in light of the larger area plan. Vice Mayor Mackenzie expressed his support of the third option for staff. He then made a motion and withdrew it since this was only an update for the Council. At the suggestion of Councilmember Reilly, Council concurred to agendize this matter for the next Council meeting. Mayor Vidak- Martinez recognized one public speaker; Gehrig Garrison, who indicated he would wait until Council could take action on this matter to present his viewpoint. At this point, Mayor Vidak- Martinez indicated that she would be moving Items 13 and is up on the agenda at the request of Councilmember Spiro. She also noted that she had 36 speaker cards for Item 10, the Draft Housing Element Review, and that the public hearing for the Housing Element would be sometime in the summer. 13. M POOL UPDATE: (Out of order) Staff Report: City Manager Netter shared the contents of the staff report. He explained how the low bid contractor asked to have their bid withdrawn since there was a $70,000 clerical error in it. He summarized Council's options to bring this project forward, and he noted that the second highest bidder has come in at approximately $300,000 over the original budget estimate. He explained that staff did not do a recommendation on this because of the nature of the budget. However, if the Council is to do the pool and *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(14) allocate funds and not send it back to bid, City Manager Netter said that staff would recommend the alternative outlined in the draft resolution in their Council packets. Councilmember Flores suggested using bond money to cover the balance of the second lowest bidder. Councilmember Reilly asked where exactly the approximately onr -mill inn rir i l arc T i iic --ii 1-.0 coming from to cover the cost of the second lowest bidder, C.G. Builders. He also discussed ways in which the capital outlay money could be used with more flexibility to fund various projects. Vice Mayor Mackenzie suggested that the Council needed more time to prioritize the spending of bond money. City Attorney Strauss recommended that the question of using bond funds for the pool be posed to the Bond Council before any final decisions. She further recommended against calling upon a bid bond. RESOLUTION FOR CONSIDERATION: No. 2000 -112 Award of Contract, Magnolia Park Pool, Project No. 1999 -09 Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Spiro, Resolution No. 2000 -112 was approved with the recommendation of the City Attorney not to call upon a bid bond. 15. GOLF COURSE MATTERS: (Out of order) Council Committee /Staff Report: Councilmember Spiro indicated that the golf course issues were discussed in a meeting in closed session this evening. She said they discussed the decision to hire a consultant to help with possible negotiations and further information as to the status of the golf course. Councilmember Flores elaborated on that, explaining that the two golf courses in the City are not the financial or recreational asset they should be to this community at this time. He stressed the need for Council to review the existing lease, which has a 28 -year balance on it, for compliance, as well as the need to hire a professional consultant to analyze what needs to be done to raise the quality level of the golf courses. City Manager Netter recommended a ceiling threshold for the contract with the consultant of $5,000. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(15) Upon motion by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Councilmember Flores, a motion to authorize City staff to negotiate a contract with the consultant not to exceed $5,000 at this time, was approved unanimously. At this time, Mayor Vidak- Martinez reminded the members of the audience that Council will be reviewing the draft Housing Element under Item 10 and that it is not a public hearing. She suggested all citizens wishing to discuss Sonoma Grove select certain people to come forward and give their points. Councilmember Spiro suggested that Council go directly to the Sonoma Grove issues in the draft Housing Element so as to accommodate the many speakers present for this topic. RECESS: Mayor Vidak- Martinez declared a recess at approximately 9:27 p.m. RECONVENE: Mayor Vidak- Martinez reconvened the Council at approximately 9:39 p.m. with all Councilmembers present. 10. COUNCIL YEAR 2000 PROJECT - MATTERS RELATED TO THE GENERAL PLAN PROCESS: 1. DRAFT HOUSING ELEMENT REVIEW - WORK SESSION: Planning Consultant Lynn Goldberg began discussing Policy HO -21 on page 9 -81 in the draft Housing Element about working towards improving living conditions for the occupants of the Sonoma Grove Trailer Park. She explained how, in conjunction with the property owner, the Redevelopment Fund could be used as a possible funding source for improvements discussed by the Redevelopment Commission, Council and the Planning Commission. Councilmember Flores discussed how he has received many calls from people living in Sonoma Grove who support the alternative living style the Park provides for those who want to live in close proximity to SSU. Councilmember Spiro commended the Grove's property owner, Alexis Telles, for his humanitarian approach to renters. Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked if there were any redevelopment projects that would benefit the Grove residents so Council could consider amending the policy. Mayor Vidak- Martinez pointed out that it was the intent of the ad hoc committee to look at the ability and the option to improve the Grove. She said her interest has been in looking at the option to improve very low income housing. She stressed that it is always important to have options *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(16) available and that the wording of the policy could be changed to reflect that. Upon further discussion, Council concurred to change the language in Policy HO -21 per City Attorney Strauss' suggestion to: "Consider use of Redevelopment funds to provide improvements to the Sonoma Grove Trailer Park and to support and maintain the existing housing forum." Councilmember Spiro leaves -- Councilmember Spiro left the chamber after the Council discussion at approximately 9:50 p.m. Mayor Vidak- Martinez then called forward all unscheduled public speakers who desired to speak about Sonoma Grove. 1. Alexis Telles property owner of Sonoma Grove, was informed by the City Attorney that none of the language in Policy HO -21 would confine the freedom of him or the residents with regard to what they choose to do in the Grove. He then indicated his support of the language, and he said that he and the residents could now sit down and talk to the City Manager about certain ideas. 2. Larry Esparza, 44 Varda Street former GSMOL Vice - President of Rancho Verde 3. James Kline, 50 Varda Street 4. Anne Marquez, 59 Varda Street 5. David Tichara, 67 Varda Street 6. Scotty Thompson, 34 Varda Street, (Distributed handout) 7. Sara Van Camp, 6 Anne Avenue 8. Alice McAdams, 2 Anne Street 9. Marie Esparza, 44 Verde Circle, (Distributed petition) 10. Lise Naparst, 20 Anne Street, (Distributed handout) 11. Steven Campbell, 11 Anne Street 12. Chandra_ Larson, 20 Alexis Street 13. Suzanne Martin, 40 Anne Street The above - listed speakers expressed SUPPORT for maintaining the lifestyle and status quo of the Sonoma Grove community. Questions and remarks stemming from their comments included: *Sonoma Grove represents diverse and multicultural segments of the community who are capable of living together in harmony and creating a safe and healthy community. *The Grove is already in regulatory compliance with health and safety requirements. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(17) *Sonoma Grove property owner, Alexis Telles, is a model landlord in upgrading and providing the services to residents. *Nothing in the General Plan indicates there is a pressing need to do anything on the Grove acreage. 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. *How did you arrive at the erroneous conclusion that residents of Sonoma Grove do not have self - contained bathrooms? *It's.not broken, so don't fix it. *Grove residents have more time to involve themselves in creative projects as they don't have to worry about a high cost of living. *The Grove has been maintained successfully as low -cost alternative housing. *What would happen to the residents of the Grove if they were to lose their homes because of redevelopment which they were never consulted on initially? *Employment, art scholarships and health care would serve the Grove residents better. *Ideas to consider the Grove as a wildlife refuge and a hate -free community. *Ideas for the Council to consider instituting a more extensive plan for the planting of trees. Council reminded the speakers throughout the speaker period that it is their intention to review and amend the draft Housing Element so as to create the most accurate document possible. Vice Mayor Mackenzie explained why there are no specific references to specific areas within Rohnert Park in the draft EIR. He explained that in the General Plan, the wetlands and vernal pools are those areas that are being considered for possible inclusion within the City's spheres of influence in urban growth boundaries. At this time, Mayor Vidak- Martinez called forward two more public speakers wishing to comment on the draft Housing Element. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(18) 14. Richard Carlile, 15 Third Street Santa Rosa, engineer with Carlile Macy, discussed the design elements in the General Plan and draft review. He noted that he is working on design elements for the university district, and he conveyed his feelings that the plans are too specific as proposed in the General Plan. He said the Land Use policy is too restrictive in the General Plan, and he recommended, caTTona ntbpr t1li nC7R t lat Hn= WAD tT''1 Troy Ratios) be done to represent an average. He advised Council to address these wordage issues in the General Plan. 15. Steve Knox, 1575 Parkway Drive, expressed his concerns over the Sonoma Grove community. As a father, he noted his concern for the safety of children in and around the community of the Grove. He recognized the need for low - income housing, however he indicated that he feels there are several fire, building, health and legal violations within the Grove. He strongly suggested that each Councilmember take a walk through the Grove and formulate an opinion for themselves of the safety, cleanliness and compliance of the community. Councilmember Reilly noted for the record that he has walked through Sonoma Grove and that while some of the aforementioned problems may exist, there were other neighborhoods in Rohnert Park with similar problems at one time or another. 2. Request for Rick Brown, The Results Group to facilitate June 14th meeting for General Plan Review: City Manager Netter explained that the purpose of Mr. Brown's presence would be to control the meeting and keep the record accurate, while Council controlled the information of the meeting. Councilmember Reilly advised against a facilitator, noting that serious discussions would be necessary in the review process and that a facilitator would not really be of much help in that regard. Council concurred to conduct the June 14th General Plan review without the assistance of a facilitator. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(19) 3. General Plan Budget /Contract Amendments: RESOLUTIONS FOR ADOPTION: No.2000 -113 Approving Amendment Number Three to the Agreement with Vicki Hill No.2000 -114 Approving Amendment Number One to the Agreement with Lynn A. Goldberg Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Flores, with Councilmember Spiro absent, Resolution Nos. 2000 -113 and 2000 -114 were jointly adopted 4 -0. At the suggestion of City Attorney Strauss, Council concurred to put down in written form their comments and input on the draft Housing Element and get those to the Planning Consultants in a timely manner. Council further concurred to hold over the review of the General Plan for their next work session on June 14th to finish transportation, public facilities and open space matters. At this time, Mayor Vidak- Martinez moved Item 12 forward to be heard. 12. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MATTER - ESTABLISHMENT OF A DOG PARK AT ROBERTS LAKE PARK: (Out of order) Staff Report: Recreation Director Barry and Gay Carlson of the Parks and Recreation Commissionn shared the contents of the staff report. They indicated that it is staff's recommendation to establish a dog park at Roberts Lake Park since it is buffered from residences and has several fences. They indicated the approximate cost would be $13,000. Recreation Director Barry also asked Council to consider to change some of the functions of neighborhood parks even though it is a difficult process. He also asked Council to consider at a later time a skateboard park near stadium land. Vice Mayor Mackenzie, liaison to the Parks and Recreation Commission, expressed his thanks to the commission and staff for all their work on the very contentious issue of finding an appropriate location for a dog park. Councilmember Reilly suggested that the fence for the new park not go all the way up to the *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(20) sidewalk, and he suggested planting bushes as a buffer. Councilmember Flores also expressed his appreciation to the commission and the director for their work on the future dog park. Upon motion by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, seconded by Councilmember Reilly, with Councilmember Spiro absent, a motion to adopt the recommendation of the Recreation Director and the Parks and Recreation Commission to establish a dog park at the Roberts Lake Park location was approved 4 -0. Vice Mayor Mackenzie then asked that the idea of a skate park be brought back so that it can be considered as an agenda item in the future. At this time, the Mayor returned the meeting to the original agenda order. 11. FIRST -TIME HOMEBUYERS DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM: Staff Reports for City & Community Development Commission: Assistant City Manager Leivo provided the contents of the staff report. He summarized the FTHP program's goals and talked about the CDC's need to spend low and moderate income housing funds both inside and outside the Redevelopment Project Area. He explained how the current program allocates $15,000 loans for low - income households and $10,000 loans for median- income households. He told Council that the mortgage brokers advised them not to increase the amounts of the loans to include moderate - income households as it was not necessary to continue to deliver the program. He responded to Councilmembers' inquiries that it would be better to increase the pot of monies available. CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION FOR CONSIDERATION: No. 2000 -115 Approving the Proposed Expenditure of Low and Moderate Income Housing Funds Outside the Redevelopment Project Area for the First -Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, with Councilmember Spiro absent, Resolution No. 2000 -115 was adopted 4 -0. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page (21) COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION: No.2000 -03 Approving the Proposed Expenditure of Low and Moderate Income Housing Funds Outside the Redevelopment Project Area for the First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program No.2000 -04 Authorizing Funds for the First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by Vice Mayor Mackenzie, with Councilmember Spiro absent, CDC Resolution Nos. 2000 -03 and the original version of 2000 -04 were jointly adopted 4 -0. At this time at the suggestion of Planning Consultant Vicki Hill, Council concurred to conduct the draft Housing Element workshop on Thursday, June 1st, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Conference Room. 14. STRETCHING DOLLARS PARTNERSHIP /STAFF REPORT: Council discussion /action: Mayor Vidak- Martinez talked briefly about the "Stretching Your Dollars" meeting which she attended recently with Assistant City Manager Leivo and a School Board member. She then requested to allocate time for staff, specifically Assistant City Manager Leivo, to create a proposal and work plan to present to the City Council, the School District and also possibly the City of Cotati. Councilmember Reilly said that he would support referring the item to staff to get the City Manager's recommendation. He also requested further clarification of what the proposal is and what its goals are. City Manager Netter signified that if it takes more than two or three hours of staff time, he will bring it back to the Council for further approval of time. He also indicated that the proposal would encourage partnerships within the community. The Mayor elaborated on that by saying that the goal is to bring forward a proposal to create a Youth Master Plan which will ideally bring together the different agencies and tie in to the General Plan childcare and youth and family elements as well. She said the Council could then look at the proposal and see if it is something that they would like to work on together with the School District *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(22) and the City of Cotati. Councilmember Reilly reiterated his objection to having Councilmember's pet projects directed to staff to take them on. Upon motion by Mayor Vidak- Martinez, seconded by Councilmember Flores, a motion to direct staff to allocate time, not to exceed three hours, to create a proposal to outline a Youth Master Plan was approved 3 -1 with Councilmember Reilly dissenting and Councilmember Spiro absent. LL 16. COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND /OR OTHER REPORTS: 1. Library Committee: Councilmember Flores gave an update on the timeline of the Library, including the following tentative dates: drawings delivered by August 28, construction beginning on December 18, and dedication on approximately December 21st of 2001. He signified that a grant writer is seeking additional funding for the $700,000 still needed for various aspects of the Library. He also noted that the Council may have to revisit some Library issues in the next budget session. He asked Council to consider the four possible names for the Library as well as one of two color schemes. The Mayor added a fifth option for the name of the Library, "Rohnert Park Civic Library." Council concurred to schedule the selection of the name and color scheme for the Library for the next Council meeting. 2. Library Mural Committee: Mayor Vidak- Martinez talked about the May 22nd meeting of the Library Mural Committee. Among other things, she said they discussed schematics of the interior of the Library with the architect and his staff, as well as opportunities for public art. She stated that the group selected its co- chairs, Lynne Conde and Tim Danesi, as well as its secretary, Virgie McLaren. Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked if Sonoma County had any responsibility in terms of the Library. City Manager Netter indicated that while some equipment is transferable, Rohnert Park will end up paying for most of it. Councilmember Reilly suggested writing a letter to Sonoma County, inquiring as to how much of the library funds which the City has paid into will be coming back into the new library in terms of equipment. *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page (23) 17. COMMUNICATIONS: Communications per the attached outline were brought to the attention of the City Council. *City Manager Netter directed Council to #7 under "Information," "Ground Water Analysis Report." He indicated that the Reports were distributed in the Councilmembers' Communications. *City Manager Netter then directed Council to #18 under "Communications Distributed at Council Meeting," "Sonoma County Water Agency Interim MOU." He told Councilmembers that the draft is in their packets, and he reminded them to read through it. Vice Mayor Mackenzie signified that he has some serious questions on this issue and wanted to know when Council would be engaging in discussions with the City Attorney and City Manager. City Manager Netter replied that after the City Attorney reviews the draft, the Council will have another workshop specifically for this agreement to flush out any concerns or questions they may have. He said alternatives will be discussed at the time of the workshop. *Vice Mayor Mackenzie was pleased to announce that George Williams invited all Councilmembers to the Memorial Day program on Monday, May 29th, beginning at 9:30 a.m. 18. MATTERS FROM /FOR COUNCIL: 1. League of California Cities' 2000 Annual_ Conference, September 7 -9 2000, in Anaheim - Seeking nominations to fill three at -large positions on Board of Directors and the office of Vice President: Mayor Vidak- Martinez asked if any Councilmembers had an interest in the at -large positions. There was no interest on the part of any Councilmembers at this time. 2. Sonoma County School Trustees Awards Banquet 6:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 25 2000, at the SSU Commons: Mayor Vidak- Martinez announced that the Public Safety Department would be receiving the Media Award for the County Trustees Association. Council concurred to cover the cost for the Mayor to attend the awards banquet. Vice Mayor Mackenzie asked the Mayor to extend the Council's congratulations to the recipient of the Administrator of the Year award, Greta Viguie of the *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page(24) Cotati - Rohnert Park Unified School District. 3. Joint Meeting with Parks and Recreation Commission 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 12 2000• INFORMATION ONLY 20. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: 1. Rohnert Park Expressway Interchange Project Status Report: City Manaqer Netter referred staff to the status reports in their packets and indicated that there would be a lot happening with the Expressway interchange this coming summer. 2. Country Club Village - Notice of Expiring Section 8 Contract for Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Program: City Manager Netter informed Council that staff is currently looking continuing HUD's Section 8 program. 3. Community Meeting Rancho Verde Clubhouse 7.00 to 9:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 24 2000: City Manager Netter informed Council that the purpose of this meeting is to discuss the shooting incident which occurred on May 5, 2000. He invited all Councilmembers to attend. 4. City Picnic - Crushers Baseball Game & BBQ 3.30 p.m. on Saturday, July 22 2000 at Rohnert Park Stadium: INFORMATION ONLY 5 Budget Work Session Tuesday June 13 at 5.00 'p.m. and Monday, June 26 at 6:00 p.m.: INFORMATION ONLY 6. City Manager Netter taking May 26 May 30 and May 31 off: INFORMATION ONLY 20. OTHER UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS: None. There being no further business, Mayor Vidak- Martinez adjourned the meeting at approximately 11:11 p.m. to: 6:00 p.m., Thursday, June 1st 2000 in the Conference Room for the DRAFT HOUSING ELEMENT REVIEW - WORK SESSION and then to: 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 12, 2000 at City Hall for the JOINT MEETING WITH THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority City of Rohnert Park *CONCURRENT MEETINGS MINUTES May 23, 2000 Page (25) 4�� Katy Leonard, Certified Shorthand Reporter CSR No. 11599 Vicki Vidak Mayor *City Council /Community Development Commission/ Rohnert Park Financing Authority