1990/08/14 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
Auqust 14, 1990
4:00 p.m.
The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in special
session at 4:00 p.m. at the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Blvd.,
Rohnert Park, CA, with Mayor Hollingsworth presiding.
Call to Order Mayor Hollingsworth called the special meeting to order at
approximately 4:05 p.m.
Roll Call Present: (4) Councilmembers Cochran, Eck,
Spiro and Hollingsworth
Absent: (1) Councilmember Hopkins
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager
Callinan, Finance Director Harrow, Assistant to the City Manager
Leivo, and Director of Public Works Brust.
Others present: Mike McCoy, reporter with Santa Rosa Press
Democrat; Judy Golan, Sonoma County Visitors and Convention
Bureau; and Cecelia Belle, Sonoma County AIDE.
Proposed City Manager Callinan distributed a document entitled "1990 -91
1990 -91 Budget- Changes in Proposed Budget" prepared by Finance Director
City Budget Harrow. City Manager Callinan reviewed the proposed changes in
detail with the Council.
Discussion was held concerning the Rohnert Park Chamber of
Commerce's request for financial assistance. Councilman Eck
advised that he and City Manager Callinan had met with Chamber
representatives and the Chamber has modified its request to
$36,000 annually and that he and the City Manager would
recommend that that amount be funded to the Chamber conditioned
on the Chamber using it to ensure it has a professional staff
and to ensure the continued placement of the holiday lights on
the Expressway. The Council indicated support for the program
worked out by Councilman Eck with the Chamber of Commerce.
Discussion was held concerning the request of Sonoma County AIDE
for financial support. The Council requested that financial
data be obtained from the organization concerning its
operations.
Discussion was held concerning the request of Sonoma County
Storytelling for financial support. By consensus the Council
indicated support for a $1200.00 contribution to the
organization.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes Aug. 14, 1990
4:00 p.ff
Discussion was held concerning the Sonoma County Arts Council
request for financial support. By consensus of the Council it
was agreed that the City would provide $3500.00 in financial
support.
Discussion was held concerning the request of the Sonoma County
Visitors and Convention Bureau for financial support for
community promotions. Judy Golan of the Bureau was present and
participated in the discussion with the Council.
City Manager Callinan
Bureau eventually be
and indicated he is
this year compared to
City last year.
Discussion followed.
indicated that staff recommended that the
weaned from the City's financial support
recommending only a $50,000 contribution
the $150,000 given to the Bureau by the
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman Eck,
and approved by the following vote, the Council indicated that
the City would provide $50,000 for promotion to the Sonoma
County Visitors and Convention Bureau during fiscal year 1990-
91:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Cochran, Eck
and Hollingsworth
NOES: (1) Councilmember Spiro
ABSENT: (1) Councilmember Hopkins
A discussion was held concerning the request of Sonoma County
AIDE for a financial contribution. City Manager Callinan
indicated that even though the organization requested $15,000,
he is recommending a contribution of only $10,000 with the
understanding that the City can review the operation and the
organization reviews its needs and if the funds were needed
later and are justified the organization could approach the City
during the fiscal year for additional funds. He indicated he had
checked out the organization and stated that it will be
partially funded by the School District and will work hand in
hand with the ne— CvY operation being set up by the City.
Cecelia Belle of the organization was present. The Council
indicated agreement with the recommendation for a $10,000
contribution for which Ms. Belle expressed appreciation.
Mayor Hollingsworth indicated he would like to do away with the
"Rent A Cop Program" under which the City uses security services
to police the parks and provide an additional Public Safety
Officer to the Department of Public Safety in order to better
police the parks. Discussion followed upon conclusion of which
the Council indicated that rather than endorsing Mayor
Hollingsworth's suggestion the Council would request a report
from the Department of Public Safety concerning the safety of
the parks.
2
Aug. 14, 1990
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes 4:00 p.m.
The hazardous materials operation was discussed. The Council
requested a report on the hazardous materials cleanup situation.
Mayor Hollingsworth initiated a discussion concerning the City
Manager's posted salary on page 5 in the proposed city budget.
He indicated that this would not be the salary that the City
would pay the individual who replaces City Manager Callinan when
he leaves at the end of the year. Finance Director Harrow
indicated that that was the City Manager's salary as of July 1
but that the budget did not provide for that full salary during
the course of the year and that it is anticipated that City
Manager Callinan's replacement will receive a somewhat lesser
salary.
Discussion was held concerning page 19 and following in the
proposed budget. The Council indicated the percentage change
for the individual departments should be shown as done in prior
years rather than just the percentage change for the major
categories.
Councilmember Spiro initiated a discussion concerning the
proposed budget reduction for the Community Outreach for Youth
and Families program from what was provided last year. City
Manager Callinan indicated that these were the funds staff
thinks the operation will need to operate; however, since the
operation is new and uncertain how it will proceed, if
additional funds are needed during the course of the year that
he would recommend that the Council approve same.
Discussion was held concerning the profit and loss statement for
the Performing Arts Theatre and the projected deficit contained
therein.
Discussion was held concerning the Capital Outlay Funds, Open
Space funds.
Mayor Hollingsworth suggested that the City undertake a program
so that the community separator area to the immediate north of
the city and its golf course along the freeway be acquired by
the City and made into a permanent park that would serve not
only Rohnert Park residents but the residents of the entire
area. He indicated that he was referring to the Pieroni parcel.
City Manager Callinan indicated that efforts will be made to
contact Mrs. Pieroni and her representative concerning the
possible sale of the property to the City.
Mayor Hollingsworth initiated a discussion with City Engineer
Brust concerning the water that the City takes from the County
aqueduct vis a vis having the city wells in operation.
Mayor Hollingsworth initiated a discussion concerning the high
cost of the smog machine in the budget ($19,000) and wondered
whether or not it pays to purchase such an expensive machine;
3
Aug. 14, 1990
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes 4:00 p.m.
that is, will its cost be amortized over a reasonable period of
time or will the machine have to be replaced, and /or would it
not be less expensive to have the vehicle smog checks performed
by a commercial operation. City Manager indicated that staff
would review the matter before the machine is purchased.
The Council concluded its work session on the 1990 -91 City
budget acknowledging that the budget is on tonight's meeting
agenda for public hearing and formal consideration.
Adjournment: The special meeting was adjourned at approximately 5:20 p.m. so
that the Council could meet in closed session with City
Attorney Flitner concerning the Mobile Home Park Rent Control
lawsuit.
City (Manager /C ,erk
4
, /c
Mayor
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes
August 14, 1990
The Council of the City of Rohnert Park mt this date in
regular session comiencing at 7:00 p.m. in the City Offices,
6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with Mayor
Hollingsworth presiding.
CALL TO ORDER Mayor Hollingsworth called the regular session to order at
approximately 7:00 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
Mayor Hollingsworth advised that an special meeting convened
at 4:00 p.m. today for a work session on the proposed
1990 -91 City budget. He also advised that a closed session
commenced immediately following the budget work session to
discuss litigation regarding the rent control matter and
said there was nothing to report at this time.
ROLL Cam• Present: (4) Councilmembers Cochran, Eck, Spiro and
Mayor Hollingsworth
Absent: (1) Councilman Hopkins (Attending ABAG conference)
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager
Callinan, City Attorney Flitner (arrival time noted in these
minutes), Planning Director Skanchy, City Engineer Brust,
Director of Administrative Services /Assistant to the City
Manager Netter, Assistant to the City Manager Leivo, and
Finance Director Harrow.
Approval of Minutes Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Mayor
Hollingsworth, the 4:00 p.m. minutes of July 24, 1990 were
approved by the following vote:
AYES: (2) Councilmembers Cochran and Hollingsworth
NOES: (0) None
ABSTAIN: (2) Councilmembers Eck and Spiro
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hopkins
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman
Eck, the 7:00 p.m. minutes of July 24, 1990 were approved by
the following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Eck, Cochran, and
Hollingsworth
NOES: (0) None
ABSTAIN: (1) Councilmember Spiro
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hopkins
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) August 14, 1990
Approval of Bills Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, and unanimously approved, the bills presented per the
attached list in the amount of $1,297,819.85 were approved.
CDA bills presented per the attached list in the amount of
$328,534.46 were also approved.
Non- agendaed Mayor Hollingsworth queried if any Councilmember had any
I-Utters non - agendaed items to add to the agenda.
Councilman Eck said he would like to report on the recent
Mayors' and Councilmembers' meeting that he attended for
the Mayor.
Uhscheduled Public Mayor Hollingsworth stated that in compliance with
Appearances State Law (The Browxi Act), anyone in the audience who wished
to make a comment may do so at this time.
Linda Branscamb Linda Branscomb, 21 Anne, distributed copies to Council
of her letter expressing support of planting trees along
Commerce Boulevard and the 101 corridor and shared the
contents therein (copy attached to original set of
these minutes).
Jake Nhckenzie Jake Mackenzie, 1536 Gladstone Way, referenced City
Manager's report, item No. 3, on tonight's agenda regarding
the Golis Park tennis/handball practice wall. He said the
previous meeting's minutes reflected that consideration was
given to cement walls to deaden the sound of tennis balls
hitting the current wooden wall versus tonight's
recommendated of removing the well and replacing it with
nets. He said an individual needs a solid wall to practice
tennis and suggested Council consider the earlier
recommendation of using cement rather than nets. Mr.
Mackenzie also said the drainage problem at this location
has still not been corrected and suggested taking a look at
the drainage patterns at the same time.
Sandy bbttard Sandy Nbttard, 7259 Adrian, representing the Soroptimist
Club of Rohnert Park, referenced copy provided to Council of
her letter dated August 10, 1990, requesting a waiver of
section 0.66.180 of the bingo by -laws that states bingo
games are to be conducted on the permit holder's property.
She said the Soroptimist Club, who is a valid Bingo License
holder with the City, would like to hold a special
fundraising event at the Red Lion Inn for Rohnert Park's
local chapter of the Muscular Dystrophy Association in
conjunction with NDA's Labor Day Telethon on September
2nd and 3rd.
Discussion followed during which Council concluded it would
be necessary to defer this request to Natters from Council
later tonight in order to obtain the City Attorney's
opinion, who was expected to arrive shortly, since the bingo
by -laws were established according to State law.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) August 14, 1990
C O N S E N T C A L E N D A R
Mayor Hollingsworth queried if anyone had any questions
regarding the matters on the Consent Calendar which were
explained in the City Manager's Council Mseting's Nunn.
Councilmember Spiro requested that Resolution Nos. 90 -177
and 90 -180 be rer►mved from the Consent Calendar.
Council concurred.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting
of the agenda.
Resolution No.
90 -172 A RESOLUTION OF THE CCUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
REJECTING THE CLAIMS OF NY�RTY JOSEPH MARTINS
Resolution No.
90 -173 A RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT (For Kitchen Equipment for
the Codding Center)
Resolution No.
90 -174 A RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT (For Furniture and Fixtures
for the Codding Center)
Resolution No.
90 -175 A RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT (For Miscellaneous Trees for
the Urban Forestry Program)
Resolution No.
90 -176 A RESOLUTION OF AWARD OF CONTRACT OVERLAYS & RECONSTRUCTION -
1990, PROJECT NO. 1990 -4
Resolution No.
90 -178 RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS, "R" SECTION
NEIGHBORHOOD PARK, PROJECT NO. 1989 -15
Resolution No.
90 -179 RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS, "A" POOL
MODIFICATIONS, PROJECT NO. 1988 -22
Resolution No.
90 -181 RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK GOLF COURSE
CORPORATION TO GRANT CERTAIN EASEMENTS TO PACIFIC GAS &
ELECTRIC COMPANY
Resolution No.
90 -182 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING COMPLETION AND DIRECTING CITY
ENGINEER TO FILE NOTICE OF COMPLETION, ROOF FOR ROHNERT PARK
STADIUM, PROJECT NO. 1989 -2
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) August 14, 1990
Resolution No. A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN APPLICATION FOR THE CALIFORNIA
90 -183 HEALTHY CITIES PROJECT AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MiNNAGER TO
EXECUTE THE SAME
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, except for the removal of
Resolution Nos. 90 -177 and 90 -180, the Consent Calendar as
outlined on the meeting's agenda was approved.
Councilmember Spiro referenced Resolution No. 90 -177 and
asked when the landscaping plans around Roberts Lake Road
were approved to which Council confirmed this was done
recently while Councilmember Spiro was on vacation.
Councilmember Spiro referenced Resolution No. 90 -180 and
asked if this project covered the complete roof for all
groups involved at the Codding Center building to which
City Manager Callinan confirmed that it did.
Resolution No. RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS, ROBERTS LAKE PARK,
90 -177 PROJECT NO. 1990 -3
Resolution No. RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS TO REMOVE, REBUILD
90 -180 AND REPLACE THE ROOF OF THE CODDING CENTER BUILDING
Upon motion by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, Resolution Nos. 90 -177 and
90 -180 were adopted.
Scheduled Public In the absence of Marty Martins, Coddingtown P. O. Box
Appearance: 12231, Santa Rosa, City Manager Callinan explained that Mt%
Marty Martins Martins spoke at the last Council meeting and had requested
time on tonight's agenda to again appear before the Council
to discuss his alleged detainment by the Department of
Public Safety personnel. A copy was provided to Council of
the report from the arresting officer concerning the time
schedule involved in the detainment. Confirmation was given
that said claims were rejected on tonight's Consent Calendar
and referred to REMIF for handling.
Resolution No. A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING OPPOSITION TO ANY RESTRICTION OR
90 -184 ELIMINATION OF THE FEDERAL TAX DEDUCTION FOR STATE AND LOCAL
INCOME AND PROPERTY TAXES
City Manager explained the resolution.
Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, and unanimously approved, the reading of Resolution
No. 90 -184 was waived and said resolution was adopted.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (5)
Resolution No. A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING GRANT
90 -185 (for parcel on Redwood Drive
the Performing Arts Center)
Planning & Zoning
August 14, 1990
DEED FROM CODDING ENTERPRISES
as gift to Endowment Fund for
City Manager Callinan explained the resolution.
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, the reading of Resolution No.
90 -185 was waived and said resolution was adopted with
agreement to amend motion to include authorization for
City Manager and City Attorney to execute necessary IRS
documents to report said gift.
File No. 1352 City Manager Callinan explained that the City Attorney had
advised the Planning Commission not to take action on File
No. 1352 - Kelly -Nbore Paint Company, and since he had not
yet arrived at tonight's meeting, asked if Council preferred
to wait until his arrival. Council concurred with approval
acknowledged by representatives of Kelly -Nbore Paint Company
who were present in the audience.
File No. 1168 Planning Director Skanchy referenced plans on display and
explained that copies had been provided to Council of staff
report regarding File No. 1168 - Scandia Family Fun Center,
Redwood Drive, application for architectural review for
detached sign program and shared contents therein. The
Planning Commission has approved the program and has
referred it to Council for review in accordance with the
Council policy to review all development along the U. S. 101
Freeway frontage.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Cochran, and unanimously approved, to approve
the application of File No. 1168 for a detached sign program
based on revised plan as approved by Planning Commission.
RIBS Mayor Hollingsworth declared a recess at approximately
7:30 p.m. in the interim of awaiting City Attorney's arrival
expected at any moment to review Council questions for City
Attorney on documents regarding File No. 1300 - Northwest
Rohnert Park Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report.
RE)OONVENE Mayor Hollingsworth reconvened the meeting at approximately
Arrival of City 7:45 p.m. with the arrival of City Attorney Flitner and all
Attorney Flitner Councilmembers present except Councilman Hopkins.
File No. 1352 Planning Director Skanchy referenced plans on display
regarding File No. 1352 - Kelly Nbore Paint Company appeal
of Planning Commission deferral of action on proposed retail
facility at 480 Rohnert Park Express (corner of Labath Ave.)
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (6) August 14, 1990
He explained that copies had been provided to Council of
letter dated July 20, 1990 from Kelly -Wore Paint Company,
letter dated July 27, 1990 from Jeffrey A. Turner, Attorney
for Kelly -Wrre Paint Company, and recent staff report
regarding this matter and shared the contents therein.
City Attorney Flitner explained his recommendation to the
Planning Commission to deny this application without
prejudice pending certification of the Environmental
Impact Report being done for the Expressway Mall area.
He said certain small projects could be considered
exempt and Council might want to overrule his opinion
if it feels this project could be within the exemption
category as that finding might prevail. However, as in the
Nansay Corp. lawsuit, City Attorney Flitner felt his opinion
regarding Kelly -Wore Paint Company was in line with the
Judge's ruling.
Discussion followed.
Herbert Giffins, Vice President -Store Operations of Kelly-
Wore Paint Company, 987 Commercial Street, San Carlos, Ca.,
reviewed contents of his above- referenced letter dated July
20, 1990. He said Attorney Jeffrey Turner had been working
with City Attorney Flitner regarding this matter and the
complexities because of the Sierra Club lawsuit and pending
EIR are very understandable, but felt the Kelly -Wore Paint
Company's project falls out of the parameter as described
which is the reason for appealing the decision of the
Planning Commission.
Jeffrey Turner, Attorney for Kelly -Wore Paint Company,
18 Crow Canyon Court, San Ramon, Calif., referenced his
above- rrentioned letter dated July 27th, 1990 and shared the
contents therein regarding the logic for Council to approve
Kelly- Wore's modest project for a 12,000 square foot retail
store. He did not feel this approval would be violating the
Court's Order because it does not represent a "significant
development project" as specified on page 2, paragraph 3 of
aatu evens if it Ulu, the same paragraph would
appear to have been satisfied by the City's proper enactment
of a General Plan.
Discussion followed during which it was confirmed that this
Project is included in the area referenced in the EIR. City
Attorney said Attorney Turner made a valid case on behalf of
Kelly- Moore's application, but understood the Judge's
decision covered the entire area in question, and thus,
in his opinion, the need to wait until the EIR is
completed and approved prior to the approval of Kelly -
Wore's application. Regrets were expressed by Council that
the Environmental Impact Reports hold up so many legitimate
requests for orderly development. Planning Director Skanchy
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) August 14, 1990
confirmed that the City has the Negative Declaration for
this project from the Sonoma County Department of Planning.
Brief comments were made regarding the possibilities of a
hold - harmless agreement from Kelly -Moore Paint Company.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Eck, to uphold the Planning Commission's decision
and deny without prejudice the application of File No.1352 -
Kelly -Moore Paint Company and approved by the following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Eck, Spiro and
Mayor Hollingsworth
NOES: (1) Councilman Cochran
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hopkins
Councilman Cochran said that a real sad state of affairs has
been reached when an EIR is needed for a 1200 square foot
building, that it seems to violate certain rights, and that
this project should not be compared to a substantial
development like the Price Club.
File No. 1300 Planning Director Skanchy said a public hearing has been
scheduled at this time regarding File No. 1300 - Northwest
Rohnert Park Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Report
review. He referenced plans on display and said copies had
been provided to Council of letters of inquiry regarding
this matter as follows: 1) Metropolitan Transportation
Commission (NEC) dated August 2, 1990, 2) Elizabeth Eddins
for the Sonoma Group of the Sierra Club and Harvey Bell
dated August 2, 1990, 3) Bay Area Air Quality Mhnagerment
District dated August 3, 1990, 4) Sonoma County Water
Agency dated August 3, 1990, and 5) Sonoma County Department
of Planning dated August 6, 1990. Also, copies were
provided to Council of responses to written comments by
Elgar Hill, Consultant, as well as copies of the resolution
for consideration as prepared by City Attorney Flitner for
certification of the EIR following the public hearing.
Elgar Hill, Consultant, referenced his above - mentioned
responses to written comments, shared some of the contents
therein, and responded to Council questions regarding same.
Discusssion followed.
Public Hearing Mayor Hollingsworth opened the public hearing at
approximately 8:30 p.m. and asked if there was anyone in the
audience wishing to speak regarding this matter.
Jake MacKenzie Jake MacKenzie, 1530 Gladstone Way, said he was unable to
attend the Planning Commission hearings last week and had
two things to address regarding the resolution for
consideration tonight. He said Council's discussion covered
two of the points he wanted to make and in light of the
earlier remarks, there is now existing in the state and is
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (8) August 14, 1990
the basis of a lot of our concerns regarding Council's
considerations of land use, that decisions not only follow
the letter of the law but the spirit of the law which is
based on legislature and alluded to by the court of law. As
decision makers, Council has the responsibility to look at
decisions as operated under CEQA. Mr. MacKenzie said
projects like Kelly -Moore Paint, Walmart, etc. were very
well argued and with the addition of tennis courts and parks
in the City there will be additional traffic problems to
consider which was the reason for CEQA guidelines. He
found these things equally frustrating but with
consideration to these mitigation treasures, the end result
will be a better community in which to live.
W. MacKenzie referenced the suit brought by the Sierra Club
and Harvey Bell and said the General Plan was to be brought
up to date and the Judge said to go through the EIR. He
said there was a conflict with the General Plan's Level of
Service Objective (LOS) and the consultant's comments
regarding the mitigation treasures and it seemed like things
were going in the wrong direction. He said he would not go
into other traffic problems as he didn't understand traffic
modeling. He encouraged solutions to biking and did not
think the analysis in the consultant's report were good
enough. The City might want to consider a more phased -in
approach in proceeding.
W. MacKenzie said the last point he wanted to make was
that it was very difficult to follow the Environmental
Impact Report and Negative Declaration and thought the
consultant should be asked to summarize how they arrived at
the final conclusion and to use visual aides such as charts
to give explanations.
Harvey Bell Harvey Bell, 700 Lindsay Avenue, distributed copies to
Council of letter dated August 2, 1990 submitted by
Elizabeth Eddins for the Sonoma Group of the Sierra Club and
Harvey Bell and shared some of the contents therein (copy
attached to original set of these minutes). He said he was
not really opposed to places like Kelly -bbore Paint Company
or any other businesses being built. The issue is not about
what is built but about following proper and legal
procedures. The Planning Commission voted to pass the
resolution for consideration regarding the draft
supplemental EIR on to the Council at its last meeting and
he did not think Council has had sufficient opportunity to
read it prior to tonight's meeting and questioned whether
Council would vote on such. He said you cannot add 92 plus
acres without significant impacts. To vote on this at
this time is premature. He asked who is going to add lanes
to highway 101 as traffic problems are created. There is a
1/2 cent issue on the November ballot and asked, if it
doesn't pass, who has the crystal ball that is going to say
what wi l l happen on even future interchange ittprovements .
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) August 14, 1990
There is no guarantee that Caltrans will take care of this
since it is understood that Caltrans only deals with the
worst conditions in the state. The people should be told
these things rather than telling them "we've taken care of
all that ". Nothing can be inplemented on 101. It is kind of
a quandary and maybe there's something that needs to be
included and handled in the mitigation. Mr. Bell
recommended holding off approval until all mitigation
factors are settled.
W. Bell concluded his comments by stating that he did not
personally receive any of the $70,000 from the lawsuit and
wanted that to be clear. Clarification of the use of these
funds was made in a brief discussion with Council and W.
Bell confirmed the funds were for attorney's fees rather
than for fines. He closed by saying no one ever took
control away from the Council as long as decisions comply
with the law.
There being no one further desiring to speak, Mayor
Hollingsworth closed the public hearing at approximately
8:55 p.m.
Elgar Hill, Consultant, responded to traffic questions
raised in the Northwest area. He referenced alternatives
6.4 and 6.5 which deferred to lower density projects and are
big mitigation measures which could result in a service
level C and is what is ordered.
W. Hill confirmed to Council that he thought this draft EIR
followed the letter of the law and the spirit of the law.
He said efforts were made on the supplement to carry it as
far as possible with the intent that the Judge requested.
Discussion followed during which Council agreed charts would
have been helpful in understanding the explanation of this
draft supplemental EIR and that the Council, Planning
Commission and staff had attempted to follow the spirit of
the law. Council reviewed various impacts and possibilities
of each section of the resolution for consideration which
included City Attorney's response to specific concerns
regarding legalities.
Council concurred to several changes as follows:
1) Page 5, third line - change "permits would be deferred"
to "permits = be deferred"
2) Page 5, fourth line - change "service level up to level
L? = better" to "service level to follow guidelines
consistant bdth General Plan"
3) Page 5, third paragraph, second sentence change "project
can be assessed before another project is commenced" to
"project can be approved before another project is
comrenced"
4) A specific mention of Traffic Systems MRnagement (TSM)
needs to be made along with this project
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (10) August 14, 1990
5) Include language regarding plans to mitigate for bike
Paths and intersections concerning same
6) Page 6, item #4, third paragraph, first sentence,
specify time "approximately five gj: mire years"
7) Page 7, item #5 - Police and Fire, specify possibilities
on west side
8) Page 8, item #7 - Drainage, third paragraph, second
sentence change "possibilities of JU pm wetlands
drainage system" to "possibilities of g, wetlands
drainage system"
Resolution No.
A RESOLUTION OF THE ROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL APPROVING THE
90-186
DRAFT SUPPLEMTTAL E NVIR0M'N'1'AL IMPACT REPORT FOR NORTHWEST
ROHNERT PARK AND DIRECTING THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS DESIGNEE
TO FILE NOTICE OF DETERMINATION WITH THE SONOMA COLNTy CLERK
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, Resolution No. 90 -186
was adopted.
RECESS
Mayor Hollingsworth declared a recess at approximately
9:35 p.m.
RECONVENE
Mayor Hollingsworth reconvened the Council meeting at
approximately 9:45 p.m. with all Councilmembers present
except Councilman Hopkins.
1990 -91 Budget
City Manager Callinan said a public hearing is scheduled at
this time on the proposed 1990 -91 City budget. He explained
that copies had been provided to Council of staff's
recommendations in the form of a budget document, work
sessions have been held as deemed appropriate, and that
changes have been included as a result of this afternoon's
work session. He confirmed for the benefit of
representatives in the audience that Council tentatively
approved funds for the Chamber of Commerce in the amount of
$36,000 and that the Sonoma County Conventions and Visitors
Bureau will be reduced to $50,000.
Public Hearing Mayor Hollingsworth opened the public hearing at
approximately 9:48 p.m. and asked if there was anyone in the
audience wishing to speak regarding the 1990 -91 City budget.
There being no one desiring to speak, Mayor Hollingsworth
closed the public hearing.
Resolution No. RESOLUTION APPROVING AND ADOPTING A BUDGET FOR FISCAL
90-187 YEAR 1990 -91
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, and unanimously approved, reading of Resolution
No. 90 -187 was waived and said resolution was adopted.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) August 14, 1990
ordinance No. 526 AN ORDINANCE INCREASING COMPENSATION OF MEMBERS OF THE
ROHNERT PARK CITY CCLUCIL (By 5% In Accordance With
State Law)
City Manager Callinan explained the ordinance for
introduction and said that, if adopted, it will henceforth
be City policy as previously suggested by Council to bring
this matter to Council for action in connection with the
annual budget.
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, introduction of Ordinance No. 526 was approved by the
following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Cochran, Spiro, and
Mayor Hollingsworth
NOES: (1) Councilman Eck
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hopkins
So.Co.Library City Manager Callinan referenced plans on display and
explained that Council had been provided copies of letter
dated July 24th, 1990 from Sonoma County Library Director
David Sabsay indicating a need to expand the City Library.
This matter was placed on the agenda to give notice of this
community need and to begin giving consideration to funding
possibilities for a library expansion project which would
probably cost between one and two million dollars according
to the above- referenced rough sketch provided by W. Sabsay.
City Manager said the City owns the library facility and
that capital improvements or additions historically have
been completed by the City with the possibility of a
contribution being obtained from the County as in the past.
Mayor Hollingsworth confirmed that Councilman Hopkins is
liaison for the library.
Ccmuinications Commmications per the attached outline were brought to the
attention of the City Council. No action was taken unless
specifically noted in these minutes.
City Imager' s Report:
Housing Work Session City Manager Callinan explained that copies had been
provided to Council of memo dated August 2, 1990 from the
Department of Public Safety regarding homeless survey
results. Copies were also provided to Council of Sonoma
County Homeless Report and the Sonoma County Comprehensive
Homeless Assistance Plan which were transmitted by Janie
Walsch, Executive Director for the Sonoma County Community
Developimnt Commission. She has asked if Council would like
to set up a work session to discuss with her various housing
programs in which the City is already involved and housing
needs as seen or perceived by others.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (12) August 14, 1990
Discussion followed during which consideration was given to
seemingly conflicting reports regarding the homeless in
Rohnert Park. Council concurred to schedule a meeting with
Janie Walsch from the Sonoma County Housing Office at 6:00
P.M. prior to the October 9th Council meeting.
A citizen shared comments regarding her recent experience as
a victim of homelessness and said the homeless are not
usually found under bridges or in the parks, but manage in
some way to improvise in temporary quarters such as motels
or friends' garages. She expressed concern for
circumstances beyond a person's control that result in
homelessness and said it was frustrating, after four years
as a resident of Rohnert Park, that there was no place to
turn within the City for temporary assistance.
City Manager said the homeless report from the Department of
Public Safety was triggered specifically to find the
homeless sleeping in vehicles, under bridges or other public
or private property areas.
Mayor Hollingsworth said the reason for scheduling a work
session with the director of the Sonoma County Community
Development Commission is to review the homeless situation
in the area more extensively and to enable consideration to
possible solutions.
Freeway Directional City Menager Callinan said the freeway directional sign on
Sign Commerce Boulevard in the vicinity of the State Farm Drive
intersection still stands and has not been painted as
Caltrans has suggested in order not to be a replica of an
official "State sign ". He said a decision needs to be made
regarding what color to have the sign painted.
Golis Park City Manager Callinan reviewed with Council the noise
Practice %Pall problem being caused by the tennis /handball practice wall in
Golis Park. He said the City Engineer has suggested the
wall be removed and the area patched up and replaced with a
tennis net. This has been recommended because it is the
.Least, expensive solution to the noise problem, especially as
compared to the acoustical consultant's recommendation of
pumping cement into the fence.
Discussion followed during which Council acknowledged that
one person could not practice tennis without a wall, the
excessive expense of a cement wall, possibilities of
checking into the cost of precast walls as well as getting
bids for concrete, and the immediate need to mitigate
the noise.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to remove the
tennis /handball practice wall at Golis Park after review of
cost for a concrete wall.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) August 14, 1990
Wine Tourist Center City Manager Callinan said the matter regarding the proposed
LWate Wine Tourist Center was referred to the Planning Commission
as previously directed by Council. He said the Planning
Commission has directed that an Environmental Impact Report
be prepared for the project and that Elgar Hill be engaged
for this at an estimated cost of approximately $23,000. The
draft report should be completed within five weeks.
G.O.Bonds of 1968 City Manager Callinan explained that copies had been
provided to Council of memo dated July 27, 1990 from Finance
Director Harrow regarding the status of General Obligation
bonds of 1968 for the construction of the Burton Avenue
Recreation Center as authorized by a vote of the citizens.
He indicated that there are sufficient monies in the fund to
discontinue the tax levy that the City has made each year
for said bonds and sufficient monies are available to pay
off the remaining debt service on the bonds.
Additional Golf City Manager Callinan said that as a follow up to objectives
Courses in the General Plan, he has had a conversation with a
representative of the Pimental property on the west side of
the City concerning possible acquisition of the property by
the City for the development of a golf course, or possible
even two. Due to the fact that it involves real estate
negotiations, he recommended discussing the matter in closed
session with Council immediately following this meeting.
Council concurred.
Proposed Bus Stops City Manager Callinan explained that copies had been
on Commerce Blvd. provided to Council of letter dated July 26, 1990 from
Sonoma County Transit with attached copy of final report
from DKS Associates regarding Comrerce Boulevard/Rohnert
Park Expressway Proposed Bus Stop Improvements Design. City
Engineer Brust has been working with two property owners,
specifically, Garrison and Pacific Properties relative to
the proposed bus stop in front of the Park Plaza Shopping
Center, and Codding Enterprises relative to the proposed
revised bus stop in front of the Northbay Center. With the
cooperation of the property owners, the inproved bus stops
should be developed within the next year or so.
Waive Campaign City Manager Callinan recommended waiving the election
Election Costs campaign charge of $250 by the City for the Statement of
Qualifications as a courtesy to candidates since other
election costs are now so expensive, besides the fact that
so much paper work is now involved with all the required
forms. The waiver that can be obtained by candidates who
cannot afford the campaign charge is sort of demeaning. He
said this recommendation has been made in the past and the
City has covered the charges since the cost is insignificant
as compared to the overall picture.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (14) August 14, 1990
Discussion followed.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman.
Cochran, to waive the $250 charge to campaign candidates and
approved by the following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Eck, Cochran and Spiro
NOES: (0) None
ABSTAIN: (1) Mayor Hollingsworth
ASSENT: (1) Councilman Hopkins
Codding Land Donation -City Manager Callinan referenced the recent land donation to
the City by Codding Enterprises and suggested selling the
property so the funds can be put into the endowment for the
Performing Arts Center.
A motion was made by Councilman Cochran, seconded by
Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to sell the land
recently donated to the City by Codding Enterprises and for
the proceeds to be put into the endowment for the Performing
Arts Center.
Discussion followed regarding the possibility of naming the
main hall of the Performing Arts Center after Nell Codding.
Confirmation was given that Mayor Hollingsworth and
Councilmember Spiro were Council committee for the endowment
campaign and both acknowledged plans to attend upcoming
meeting regarding same.
City Attorney's
Report: Council concurred to defer the City Attorney's report
Pooper Scooper regarding a pooper scooper ordinance until the next Council
Ordinance meeting when Councilman Hopkins will be present to
participate in the discussion regarding this matter.
Matters from Council:
So.Co.Transportation Councilman Cochran said the Sonoma County Transportation
Authority was officially formed. He reviewed names of the
new officers who were sworn in at the first meeting and
commented on various items to be considered in the initial
meetings such as finances and finding attorneys to address
concerns of the Transportation Authority.
Cotati Council City Manager Callinan said a joint meeting with Cotati
Joint Meeting Council is to be hosted by Rohnert Park and Cotati has
suggested the date of August 29.
Discussion followed during which Council agreed it could
meet on September 18th for the Cotati Council joint meeting.
League of Ca.Cities Mayor Hollingsworth referenced copies provided to Council of
Annual Conference letter dated July 12, 1990 from League of California Cities
regarding designation of voting delegate for League Annual
Conference in Anaheim, October 21_24. Council concurred
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (15) August 14, 1990
that Mayor
the League
alternate.
Hollingsworth should be the voting delegate for
Annual Conference with Councilman Hopkins the
Natl League of Cities-Mayor Hollingsworth said the 1990 Congress of Cities and
Exposition of the National League of Cities will be held in
Houston, Texas, December 1 -5, 1990. He said authorization
is approved if any Councilmember wants to attend.
Mayors'& Council- Councilman Eck said he attended the Mayors' & Councilmembers
members Assoc. Association general meeting on July 12th at Council's
request in the absence of the Mayor. He said a fee for the
collection of property taxes was discussed and the committee
hoped for a united front. Councilman Eck responded to
Council's suggestion to send a letter to the Sonoma County
Board of Supervisors opposing the booking fees and property
tax administration fee. Councilman Eck also reported that
the tentative agenda for the September 13th Mayors' and
Councilmen Association meeting would be on strategy for the
upcoming issues of 1/2 cent Transportation Tax and the Open
Space initiative to be on the November 1990 ballot.
Mbntecarlo Night Mayor Hollingsworth said the Nbntecarlo Night Charity will
be on September 3rd. Ralph Jones has let him know that
dealers are needed and has requested Councilmembers to give
consideration to this need as in the past.
Bingo Waiver Request Mayor Hollingsworth requested City Attorney Flitner to
respond by mail to the Soroptimist Club's request for waiver
of bingo games on permit holder's property since the
representative was unable to stay this late at tonight's
meeting for said response.
Trees /Coimarce Blvd. Mayor Hollingsworth requested the item regarding trees on
Commerce Boulevard be placed on the next Council agenda per
comnmications with Howard Boggs.
Councilman Eck said the committee regarding the Commerce
Boulevard trees will have one more meeting prior to the next
Council meeting. A lot of progress has been made. The
committee is working with Planning Director Skanchy and
hopes to have a final plan to present for Council
consideration at the next Council meting.
Council Feting Discussion incurred during which Councilmmbers Cochran,
Cancellation Spiro, and Mayor Hollingsworth each confirmed they would be
unable to attend the next Council meeting because of
vacation and other personal matters.
Council concurred the necessity to cancel the August 28th
Council meeting due to no quorum and agreed that a
special meting could be called for urgent matters prior
to the first regularly scheduled meting in September,
if necessary.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (16) August 14, 1990
Lhsdleduled Public Mayor Hollingsworth asked if anyone in the audience wished
Appearances to make an appearance at this time. No one responded.
Adjournment to Mayor Hollingsworth adjourned the meeting at
Closed Session approximately 10:27 p.m. to Closed Session immediately
following this meeting to discuss personnel matters,
litigation matters, and real estate negotiations.
Reconvene Mayor Hollingsworth reconvened the Open Session at
approximately 10:50 p.m. with all Councilmembers present
except Councilman Hopkins.
Performing Arts Center -City Manager Callinan said copies had been provided to
Concession Caterer Council of resolution for consideration to extend the bid
opening for an independent contractor /caterer for the
Sbreckels Performing Arts Center concession area. He said
it would be necessary to declare this an emergency item
as this action was not anticipated when the agenda
was prepared.
A motion was made by Councilman Cochran, seconded by
Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to declare
Resolution No. 90 -188 an emergency item.
Resolution No. RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COLUCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
90-188 EXTENDING THE BID OPENING FOR AN INDEPENDENT
CONTRACTM/CATERER TO PROVIDE AND BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE
SPRECKELS PERFOPMNG ARTS CENTER CONCESSION AREA
City Manager Callinan explained the resolution.
Upon motion by Councilman Cochran, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, the reading of Resolution
No. 90 -188 was waived and said resolution was adopted.
Adjournment Mayor Hollingsworth adjourned the meeting at approximately
10:55 p.m.
XDe ° Ci . CieA-71 Mayor s
Rohnert Park City Council
Commerce Blvd.
Rohnert Park, CA 94928
Dear Mayor Hollingsworth and Council Members,
7
// G �
How are we going to accomplish objective nine of the Conservation Element of the General
Plan Summary (page 1.20) to wit, continue efforts to plant trees and earn designation as a "Tree
City USA" by 1995, if we cave in to special interests and begin removing trees along the scenic
corridor between the 101 Highway and Commerce Blvd., almost before the ink is dry on our
carefully prepared general plan? We all know the importance of trees in releasing oxygen and
trapping traffic generated pollutants such as carbon monoxide, dust and noise. This buffer will
be of critical importance when 1- lighway 101 becomes a six lane freeway as projected.
Rather than destroying this precious life form, wouldn't it be more prudent to investigate
ways to prune the trees as they grow so that they allow for greater visibility? Many of the trees
are deciduous so there would be no blockage during part of the year anyway. One can only
imagine what the Louvre in Paris, with its beautifully sculptured tress, would look like had that
city's officials chosen to chop them down rather than prune them.
Under the Goal on Page 1.5 of the General Plan Summary which is to insure an
aesthetically pleasing community we read Principle 5 "Encourages quality development with
good architectural features and extensive landscaping throughout the community, but especially
along the U.S. 101 frontage and major streets." We also read Implementation Measure 8,
"Continue to insure that the U.S. 101 image of the city is continually improved and enhanced,"
and Implementation Measure 10 "Continue to require landscaping and tree planting along the
sides and medians of streets so as to give a sense of community and caring." Aren't we referred to
as the "Friendly City ?"
Planting and nurturing the trees along Commerce Blvd. and the 101 corridor is in
compliance with the General Plan and is a benefit to all of Rohnert Park. The aesthetic value of
the trees more than offsets any minor impediment to visibility of the businesses along
Commerce Blvd. In these days of disappearing Redwoods and rain forests, let's save the trees.
Thank you very much for your consideration and time.
•
Linda Branscomb
t/�ff d-;�- F'/V
10
City of Rohnert Park
Planning Department
6750 Commerce Boulevard
Rohnert Park, Ca. 94928
8/2/90
Dear Mr. Skanchy,
The Sierra Club and Harvey Bell submit the following comments on the Northwest
Rohnert Park Program EIR Draft Supplement.
1. There is no alternatives analysis in this DEIR. The project has been
significantly changed by the addition of additional sites (92.15 acres of of
combined commercial and office development), but the only reference to
alternatives is on page I -7, which is an unexplained list of alternatives
analyzed in the previous EIR that was ruled inadequate by the courts. This is a
severe deficiency of the environmental document, particularly since there appear
to be a number of significant, unmitigable impacts which could possibly be
mitigated with an alternative project.
2. It is not clear from the EIR if the additional 92.15 acres have been analyzed
in all sections of the EIR. In certain sections (traffic, noise, land use) it
appears as if the impacts of the revised project have not been taken into
account.
3. The DEIR should clearly state which impacts can be mitigated to a level of
insignificance and which are significant and unmitigable. It appears that there
are many significant impacts of the proposed project which will remain
significant even after the proposed mitigation measures are implemented. The
project will result in the following significant impacts as disclosed in the
DEIR:
a. The intersections listed on page 1 -1 will operate. at LOS D even
after mitigation. In addition, the project will significantly
contribute to the cumulative impact of growth related traffic on
Highway 101. The impact of the project on highway 101 is not fully
addressed to the extent requested by Caltrans in. their response to the
NOP.
b. The project will produce aggregate emissions greater than one
percent of the total ambient air quality of the Sonoma Valley.
The mitigations listed for air quality on page 1 -3 are inadequate for
reducing this severe impact to a level of insignificance. Mitigation it
should be done immediately and the results put in the FEIR. Mitigation
cannot be left to future study, which is what mitigations 11 and 13
call for. It is not clear from the DEIR how mitigation 12 and 14 would
reduce the significant air quality impact to a level of
insignificance. The FEIR should contain mitiagtions which will clearly
reduce the impact to a level of insignificance, or disclose that the
impact is significant and unmitigable.
c. The project will significantly exacerbate the already severe-problem
Rohnert Park has with its water supply. The city has used up all its
water allotment and is now relying on other cities' allotments to
service existing development. This significant impact is not mitigated
by the proposed mitigation measures listed on page I -4 and 3 -27.
Relying on wells for water results in a significant impact on
groundwater levels. How can water availability be monitored and matched
with projects if there is no water available? (p.3 -28). Extension of
water service is not a mitigation for lack of water (p.3 -28). Requiring
developers to landscape with species that require limited irrigation
will not mitigate the significant problem of lack of water supply.
Continuing to approve developments when existing public services are
already overtaxed is the kind of abuse of discretion that CEQA was
designed to prevent. This project is a prime example of ignoring
serious environmental impacts in a blind quest for short term profit.
This EIR glosses over the seriousness of the environmental impacts that
will occur with the approval of this development by proposing
ineffective, illegal mitigation measures and failing to properly
analyze alternatives.
d. As with water supply, the City also faces a serious problem with
lack of sewer treatment and discharge capacity to serve the project.
The EIR impacts section does not clearly describe the impact such a
large amount of development will have on the Laguna Treatment plant and
the City's wastewaterpump station system (which is already operating
over capacity). The table on p.3 -29 does not show the amount of sewer
capacity taken up by projects already approved but not under
construction. The actual available capacity could be much less than
shown on the chart because the flow could be higher in some years than
it was in 1989. More quantitative data should be included in the EIR to
support the assumption that the effect on wastewater capacity is not a
significant impact. Since there is no clear description of impacts of
the project on the wastewater system, the mitigations are similarly
vague. A mitigation saying, "Continue to pursue efforts...." is not
adequate under CEQA. The mitigations should be redone and made legally
adequate once more information is available on the impacts of the
project.
e. The project will generate over 2,000 jobs, cumulatively adding more
jobs than are provided for by the Rohnert Park General Plan. This,
along with the lack of affordable housing for employees needed by the
project is a significant impact. The proposed mitigation measure for
this impact is inadequate because it does not describe how employee
housing will be provided (will it be built as part of the proposed
project? If so, where ?), how this additional housing will be
accomodated given the shortage of sewer capacity and water, and the
relationship of this additional housing to the adequacy of housing
element and other elements of the general plan.
This severe impact cannot just be glossed over and ignored. The general
plan cannot just be ignored if the project will create more jobs than
provided for in the general plan.
f. The section on urban runoff clearly points to the potential for a
significant water quality impact from the project. The mitigation for
creating an artificial wetland and for providing a detention basin
should be made more specific. The drainage plan called for should be
included in the EIR, instead of delayed for future study (it could
conceivably never be done). The need for a mitigation program should
not be delayed until the. RWQB study is completed, unless project
approval will also be delayed until that time as well. Mitigations must
be clear, specific, and implementable, not just promises to do future
studies and implement future plans.
The EIR does not address impacts and mitigations for the project on
Labath Creek, as requested by the Department of Fish and Game in their
response to the NOP.
Submitted By:
Elizabeth Eddins for the
Sonoma Group of the Sierra Club and Harvey Bell
cc. Law Office of Katherine Dixon and Associates