1993/11/09 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
November 9, 1993
The Council of the City of Rohnert Park net this date in regular
session commencing at 6:00 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 6:35 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
Mayor Hollingsworth advised that a closed session commenced this
evening at 6:00 p.m. to discuss litigation matters and personnel
matters. He said no action was taken and there was nothing to report
at this time.
ROLL CALL Present: (5) Councilmembers Eck, Gallagher, Reilly, Spiro and
Mayor Hollingsworth
Absent: (0) None
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Netter,
City Attorney Flitner, Assistant to the City Manager Leivo, Director
of Public Works /City Engineer Brust and Director of Recreation Pekkain.
Approval
of Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Gallagher,
Minutes the minutes of October 26, 1993 were unanimously approved as submitted.
Approval Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Reilly, City
of bills presented per the attached list in the amount of
Bills $604,837.15 and per attached supplemental list in the amount of
$129,803.42 were unanimously approved.
Non- agendaed Mayor Hollingsworth queried if any Councilmember had any non- agendaed
matters items to add to the agenda. Councilwoman. Spiro and Councilman Eck
each signified a miscellaneous item to add under matters from Council.
Councilman Eck said his could be handled under the mobile home
rent item.
Oath of Office for new Department of Public Safety Fire Services Commander:
Mayor Hollingsworth administered the Oath of Office to Jack W. Shields
as the new Department of Public Safety Fire Services Commander. The
Mayor welcomed Mr. Shields as the new Fire Commander and wished him
well in the new position.
Selection of Director of Public Safety:
Mayor Hollingsworth shared contents of the media release and announce-
ment made today by City Manager Netter regarding the selection of
Patrick E. Rooney as the next Director of Public Safety. The
appointment will become effective November 16, 1993. City Manager
Netter said Mr. Rooney would actually be starting his employment with
the City next Monday, November 15th, 1993.
Unscheduled Mayor Hollingsworth stated that in compliance with State Law (The
Public Brown Act), citizens wishing to make a comment may do so at this time.
Appearances Under legislation of the -Brown Act, in most cases, the Council cannot
handle an item without agendizing. To ensure accurate recording,
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) November 9, 1993
"Spcakcr Cards" are provided at the entrance of the Charabte.L and
persons speaking under unscheduled public appearances are requested to
submit completed cards to the recording clerk.
Heidi Weil, 193 Fescue Way, referenced the General Plan /20 Year Master Plan item
scheduled later on the agenda and said she was a member of the 1992 -93
General Plan Citizens Advisory Committee. She recomrended proceeding
with the 20 year master plan as soon as possible because it will
require adequate time to do it right-. She felt the former General
Plan Committee could have used much more time on each element of the
General Plan because of the many complicated issues which will affect
the residents. Difficult decisions will have to be made. Ms. Weil
approved of the new income generated from conrmrcial development on
the west side and asked if a cemetery could fit into the Williamson
Act definitions of land use. She expressed appreciation to the City
Council for all the hard work done on behalf of the community and said
she would be interested in serving on the new General Plan Committee.
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
NYanager's Council Meeting Memo.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the
agenda.
Resolutions:
No. 93 -137 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
PROCLAIMING NOVEMBER 18, 1993 AS "GREAT AMERICAN SMDKEOUr DAY"
No. 93 -138 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
PROCLAIMING NOVEMBER 23, 1993 AS "AIDS AWARENESS DAY"
No. 93 -139 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL ;OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
REJECTING THE CLAIM OF ARLIS SLATER AND ALLEN SUNN'I'ER (RE. ALLEGED
ACCIDENT AT MILLBRAE AVENUE AND DOWDELL AVENUE
Approval of Parcel Map No. 150, Codding Enterprises, for a 2 lot,
8.33 acre subdivision to create a one acre parcel for a 4 -H project
located behind Payless and Albertson's Market on Commerce Boulevard
Upon motion by Councilwoman Spiro, seconded by Councilman Reilly, the
Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda, was unanimously
approved.
Resolution
No. 93 -140 COMMENDING ROBERT E. DENNEIT ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT
City Manager explained the need to declare this resolution an
emergency item in order for timely presentation to Imo'. Dennett at his
retirement dinner on November 20, 1993.
Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro,
declaring this resolution an emergency item, was unanimously approved.
Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and
unanimously approved, Resolution No. 93 -140 was adopted.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) November 9, 1993
Reverend Samuel Tha r-e of Thorvex Productions - "T's Academy" was acknowledged.
Reverend Tharpe said he was available to respond to Council questions.
City Manager Netter indicated Council's consensus at the previous
Council meeting to approve $500.00 for the Thanksgiving dinner for the
needy and advised that, in addition to this donation, he had
authorized a two day waiver of the rent of the facility utilized by
"T's Academy" which amounted to approximately $190.00.
Upon motion by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilwoman Gallagher,
the $500 contribution to "T's Academy" and the two (2) day waiver of
fees at Burton Avenue Recreation Center for the Thanksgiving dinner
for the needy, was unanimously approved.
Resolution A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE FIRST ANENDNENT TO THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN
No. 93 -141 THE CITIES OF SONOM COUNTY AND SONONA COLNrY FOR A JOINT POWERS
AGENCY TO DEAL WITH WASTE MANAGENENT ISSUES
City Manager Netter and Assistant to the City Manager Leivo explained
the resolution as reviewed in the staff report and Council Meeting
Memo and responded to Council questions.
Discussion included comment by Councilwoman Gallagher that a couple of
the other cities now have appointed elected persons on the JPA and
requested that Rohnert Park also appoint an elected official to be on
the JPA. A motion was made by Councilwoman Gallagher against the
resolution signifying her desire to retain the JPA unanimous vote
requirement unless elected persons are appointed to the JPA because
elected officials are ultimately responsible. Said motion died for
lack of a second.
Upon motion by Councilwoman Spiro , seconded by Councilman Eck,
reading of Resolution No. 93 -141 was waived and said resolution was
approved by the following vote:
AYES: (4) Councilmembers Eck, Reilly, Spiro and
Mayor Hollingsworth
NOES: (1) Councilwoman Gallagher
ABSENT: (0) None
Councilman Eck specified that if a Councilmember desperately desired
to be on the JPA, arrangements could be made. However, to date, there
has been no indication of such interest. He thought Carl Leivo has
done an outstanding job of representation in spite of the rhetoric.
Councilman Eck agreed with the idea that staff is accountable to
concerns of the community as well as desires of the full Council.
Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING CHAPTER 9.46 OF THE
No. 582 ROHNERT PARK MJNICIPAL CODE TO PROVIDE FOR THE RECOVERY OF EXPENSES
INCURRED BY THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK IN MAKING EMERGENCY RESPONSES AS
SET FORTH IN CALIFORNIA GOVERMM= CODE SECTIONS 53150, ET SEQ.
City Manager Netter explained the ordinance which was discussed at the
previous Council meeting and concluded in direction by the Council
that the ordinance be prepared for introduction at this Council
meeting with signified revisions. Discussion followed.
Upon motion by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and
unanimously approved, with the understanding that only DUI's resulting
in accidents or damage to property would be billed, reading of
Ordinance No. 582 was waived and said ordinance was introduced.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) November 9, 1993
Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce Holiday Tree Lighting Project:
Beth Jeffcoat, Executive Director of Rohnert Park Chamber of Commerce,
reviewed her report provided to Council regarding the traditional
holiday tree lighting project. Due to several technicalities
including increased liability factors, decreased donations, and the
previous ceremony facility is no longer available, the Chamber
is asking the Council to agree to reducing the number of trees to be
lighted and transfer funds to use of the Community Center for a
community holiday function including a "holiday village" concept.
Sandy Mottard, 7259 Adrian Drive, said if a holiday function is to be held at the
Community Center, maybe it would be a good idea to start the lighting
of the trees closest to the Center. She understood that insurance
concerns are a real liability but, so far, there have been no problems.
She complimented the traditional tree lighting ceremony and asked the
Council to give careful consideration to the matter before removing
such traditions.
Discussion included suggestion by Councilman Eck that consideration
might be given to planting a real tree at the Community Center for
the purpose of annual holiday decorating. A motion was made by
Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously
approved, to accept the recommendation of the Chamber of Commerce to
reduce the number of trees (4 to 5) to be lighted to specified
intersections, but provide more lights per tree, and work with City
staff in proceeding with plans for a holiday function at the Community
Center with the development of a holiday village concept in the
Community Center /Performing Arts Center yard.
Lilac Way Tot Park:
City Manager Netter referenced the petition /request of several
residents to close Lilac Way Tot Park and the through access from the
park to Lydia Court North because it is felt the access leads to
vandalism to property and automobiles on Lydia Court North. Mr.
Netter reviewed title company /property tax complications involved with
transferring ownership of such properties and, therefore, suggested
consideration be given to closing the through access and changing the
playground equipment to be more suitable to tots. Councilwoman Spiro
said she had a real problem with eliminating any park and felt there
should be no exception to the provision of a park in this neighborhood.
Public Comments - Mayor Hollingsworth opened the meeting to public comments at
approximately 7:05 p.m.
Bob Evans, 577 Lydia Court, expressed appreciation for the speedy response of the
City to install safety bars on Lydia corner. He shared the example of
a neighbor with tots who does not use the park because the equipment
is for older children. He said something needs to be done about the
current conditions of the park that seem to generate the problems as
reviewed. He suggested that the more economical approach would be to
put in appropriate tot equipment, refurbish the sand, etc. which would
not be conducive to attracting the older children but would become
attractive and safe for tot use.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (5) November 9, 1993
Katherine Collins, 828 Lilac Way, said her family has lived next to this park for
twenty years and they have seen it both good and bad. She thought
closing off the through access would help the neighborhood and the
park should be made into a tot lot with proper tot equipment,
especially since it has always been referred to as a tot lot. She
agreed the park should not be shut down but the problems have to be
addressed. Since there is another park on the other side of Lydia
North, closing off the through access would just eliminate the
pass- through for teen- agers.
Walter Hyde, 571 Lydia Court, said he agreed with comments of the previous speakers
and thought closing the access would alleviate a lot of the problems
connected with vandalism in the neighborhood. Provisions should be
made to take care of tots at this location and would be comparable to
the very nice tot lot at the other end of the court.
There being no one further desiring to speak, the Mayor closed the
public comments at approximately 7:10 p.m.
Following discussion Council concurred that Recreation Director
Pekkain should communicate with surrounding residents of Lilac Way
regarding tot park recommendations for review by the Parks and
Recreation Commission and bring back a recommendation for Council's
consideration.
Yard extension request from Resident Rhonda Nilsson, 507 Lanyard Court:
City Manager Netter shared comments pertaining to the referenced
letter request received November 1, 1993 as reviewed in the Council
Meeting Memo. He said the title company /property tax complications
involved with transferring ownership of properties, as explained for
the previous agenda item, also applies to this item. Therefore, staff
recommends not selling the property or, if Council desires to sell it
to adjacent property owners, it would be better for the surrounding
property owners to join together and complete all the requirements
through the title company in order to split the parcel, including
obtaining an appraisal of said properties to ensure obtaining market
value of the land for the City. Another consideration would be to
leave the parcel as is and contract it to the surrounding residents
with a condition that would include a hold harmless agreement for the
City's protection.
Discussion included various speculations regarding surrounding
resident interest in the triangular lot, consideration of splitting
the lot in half with a nominal offer to the residents of lots
62 and 63; and possibilities of residential use for an organic garden.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Reilly,
and unanimously approved, to begin abandonment procedures on the
referenced triangular section of land directly behind lots 62 and 63
on West Lanyard Court, notify surrounding residents, and direct the
Planning Commission to schedule a public hearing accordingly. Then
have those property owners interested in purchasing said lands
finalize all necessary details so that the City can sell said property
at market value.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (6) November 9, 1993
1972 Rohnert Park Code of Ethics:
Councilwoman Gallagher acknowledged her request for this item to be
placed on the agenda because of noticing the 1972 date on the City's
Code of Ethics. She recommended proceeding with efforts toward
updating same involving citizen input.
Discussion followed during which it was pointed out that necessary
precautions would have to be taken to make sure that the City's Code
of Ethics abides by the Code of Ethics established by the voters and
set up by the Fair Political Practices' Code of Ethics and Code of
Conduct, therefore, establishing the need for the City Attorney to
review and incorporate these items into any backup tool used by the
City. Comments included corparisons to setting up citizen committees
with holding public hearings to receive input and recommendations from
residents. Council agreed with the importance of abiding by the
existing code of ethics.
Discussion concluded in a motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by
Councilman Reilly, and unanimously approved, to refer this item to the
City Attorney for further review and recommendations to ensure that
the City's Code of Ethics incorporates the FPPC Codes.
Revisit previously deleted budget items:
Councilwoman Gallagher said she requested this item to be placed on
the agenda to reconsider funding of youth programs previously cut from
the budget. These items included replacement funds for the self -
esteem program for teens and the truancy officer because these
preventive measures are not as costly as dealing with later
repercussions. Ms. Gallagher also referred to citizen comrents during
a recent Parks and Recreation Commission meeting and said a written
proposal procedure is needed for residents to request funds from the
City in order to know if their programs qualify for consideration.
Discussion included confirmation that the City already has written
procedures for funding requests to be submitted to the City in writing.
Council expressed concerns related to various other budget matters
including the need to restore reserves and consideration of the one to
two million dollars needed for Expressway overpass improvements. City
Manager Netter recommended waiting until after the six (6) month
budget review in January before further consideration is given to
revisiting any of the budget items. He said Council would be able to
get a better feel of actual revenues following review of 50% of the
budget year. Council concurred.
Gymlastics Program at Sports Center:
City Manager Netter referred to concerns expressed at the previous
Council meeting regarding the Gymiastics Program at the Sports Center
and updated the Council on results of staff meeting with concerned
parents of the children in Angie Sperry's gytmastic classes. Based on
the information received at that meeting, along with the interest of
the parents to maintain Angie Sperry, staff has decided to extend a
three ( 3 ) month contract with Angie Sperry for her gynm.astic program
at the Sports Center in order to allow necessary time to work out
difficulties with procedures and policies. Angie Sperry has contacted
the City and has agreed to continue the program as reviewed.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) November 9, 1993
Sandy Mottard, 7259 Adrian Drive, described the PAL gymnastics program in Santa Rosa
that recently went out of business which she thought was an excellent
program. There were several good coaches from this Santa Rosa program
that are now out of work and could work with Rohnert Park, if the City
continues to have problems with its gymnastics program. The Mayor
expressed appreciation for the idea but said, at this time, the City
would proceed with the program it has.
Debbie Stack, 8567 Lancaster Drive, expressed apologies as the person who extended
the invitation to Councilwoman Gallagher to attend the staff meeting
with gymnastic representatives and concerned parents as she was not
aware of Council policies. Ms. Stack reviewed her reasons for being
upset with the way the Recreation Department handled the procedures
involved for the cancellation of Angie Sperry's gymnastic program.
She said Angie has done nothing wrong and felt she deserves a public
apology. Councilman Eck responded that her feelings were under-
standable, however, wanted to point out that the matter was taken care
of promptly following the concerns expressed at the previous Council
meeting. Ms. Stack agreed and said she was glad this matter has been
straightened out.
RECESS Mayor Hollingsworth declared a recess at approximately 7:34 p.m.
RECONVENE Mayor Hollingsworth reconvened the Council meeting at approximately
7:43 p.m. with all Councilmembers present.
Recreation matters:
1. Free Friday Night Program - City Manager Netter updated the Council on the tre-
mnendous success of this program for both high school and junior high
school students for the past seven Friday nights. He shared details
of the staff report provided to Council including comments reviewed in
the Council Meeting Memo. Mr. Netter and Recreation Director Pekkain
responded to various Council questions confirming continued communi-
cations with Herb Cody regarding the development of an agreement for
the beneficial assistance of his martial arts program and to what
extent his services would be required following conclusion of the
initial agreement through March 25, 1994.
Chip Worthington, Pastor, Rohnert Park Community Assembly of God, presented a check
to the Mayor in the amount of $425 in appreciation and support of the
Friday Night Teen program. He shared contents of his letter (copy
attached to original set of these minutes) explaining how the funds
were raised through a community harvest carnival with the assistance
of the following group of con-unity sponsors: Castino Restaurant
Equipment and Supply, The Codding Foundation, Century 21 Classic
Properties Real Estate, Debra Investment Corp., Exchange Bank, Pioneer
Tire & Brake, Food 4 Less, M.allins Construction, MacDonald Insurance,
Oliver's Market, Jimmie Rogers, M. P. Rosen Inc., Young America Homes,
Roger Wilco Market and various other individuals.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (8) November 9, 1993
2. Northbay Breakers lease - Director of
Recreation Pekkain shared contents of
staff report
dated November 4,
1993
regarding Northbay Breakers use of
the Stadium
for 1994 and 1995.
He confirmed positive efforts of
working with
the Breakers and
that
financial reports are showing the
best results
of any group that
has
leased the Stadium from the City.
3. Use of Rohnert Park Stadium for baseball or jointly with soccer - Director of
Recreation Pekkain confirmed that the above- reviewed efforts with the
Northbay Breakers also has included agreeable com7unications regarding
considerations for the joint baseball use of the Stadium. Mr. Pekkain
referenced his letter dated October 28, 1993 to the Western Baseball
League which reviewed the results of the comrunications regarding the
joint use of the Stadium. He also confirmed to Council inquiry that
joint baseball /soccer use of the Stadium would include responding to
the interests of the Redwood Empire Baseball League for holding
tournaments, as well as benefiting other local baseball programs.
Director of Recreation Pekkain and City Manager Netter responded to
various Council questions confirming indications that conversion costs
for this joint use may not be as costly as originally considered and
would maximize use of the Stadium. Council agreed that staff should
proceed with commmications toward this effort.
Proposed west side open space golf course:
City Attorney Flitner referenced his memorandum dated November 2, 1993
and shared contents therein regarding Williamson Act provisions,
including comuents reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo. This report
was in response to Council's previous request for the City Attorney to
advise the ways property can be removed from a Williamson Act Contract.
City Attorney Flitner responded to Council questions clarifying
contents of his report and examples therein related to the proposed
west side open space golf course.
Discussion concluded in a motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by
Councilman Reilly, and unanimously approved, to take a two - pronged
approach to this issue as follows: 1) formally send a letter to David
Hansen of the Open Space District regarding notification of the
potential open space and the owner's interest in selling the specified
property; and 2) refer the proposed third golf course item to the Golf
Course Council Committee for further review pertaining to potential
location(s) including consideration of land use element and the
General Plan Update process.
Mayor Hollingsworth explained that there would be no further
consideration on the golf course proposal at this time and, therefore,
asked if previously signified residents still desired to make
comments. Debbie Clarkson, Shannon Clarkson and Linda Branscomb each
confirmed preference to wait until after the Golf Course Council
Committee reviews the matter further and makes recommendations.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) November 9, 1993
Rohnert Park Expressway Interchange Improvements, Project No. 1991 -4:
City Manager Netter explained the staff report regarding preliminary
cost estimates and funding sources as of November 4, 1993 for the
three (3) phases of the referenced project. City Manager Netter and
Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust responded to Council
questions confirming that staff recommends proceeding with Phases I
and II with Phase III to be completed at a later time. Caltrans would
take approximately one year to review the plans, therefore, Phase I
would not actually start until spring of 1995. Discussion followed.
A motion was made by Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilman
Eck, and unanimously approved, as recommended by staff, to proceed
with Phases I and II for the Rohnert Park Expressway Interchange
Improvements, Project No. 1991 -4.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilman Reilly,
and unanimously approved, directing a letter to be written over the
Mayor's signature to legislators requesting support of this project
and request to expedite the plan review by Caltrans to shorten the
time period to 4 to 6 months.
Sonoma State University Parking 1994 - Initial Study /Negative Declaration:
City Manager Netter said the Initial Study and Negative Declaration
for the Sonoma State University's new 1994 Parking Lot was distributed
to Council for its review and comments.
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro,
and unanimously approved, directing a responding letter be prepared
and sent to SSU requesting SSU's consideration in the adoption of a
Congestion Management Plan (CMP). This CMP would promote car pooling
for staff and students and assist in reducing traffic congestion and
air pollution.
Use of COYF Center /Senior Center:
City Manager Netter shared comrents as reviewed in the Council Meeting
Memo regarding considerations for joint use of the COYF /Senior Center
and said a Master Calendar of room usage is being developed in order
to analyze and recommend a particular joint use program. Councilwoman
Spiro confirmed that she and Vice Mayor Reilly met recently with
representatives of the Senior Citizens Advisory Commission and other
seniors representing the Senior Center in order to discuss the use of
the COYF Center and that the meeting was very beneficial. Ms. Spiro
said the question was raised by the seniors about a consistent time
table for use of the large activities room. Discussion included
differing opinions pertaining to smoking and non - smoking and it was
pointed out that the only authorized smoking at the Senior Center is
the designated smoking room.
Library Advisory Board matters:
Council Liaison Reilly updated the Council on items reviewed during
the recent Library Advisory Board meeting held on November 3rd, 1993.
Topics of discussion, among others, included local history room site
for storage with possibilities at Friends of the Library facility,
status of automatic doors for wheel chair /handicap provisions, and
Origami Holiday program. •City Manager Netter explained that represen-
tatives of the Library had approached City staff earlier regarding
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (10) November 9, 1993
assistancc with fundraising efforts for the automatic doors. Mr.
Netter said he recommended that they provide him with the costs and he
would approach the Council for this item rather than pursue a
fundraiser. Vice Mayor Reilly explained plans for the Origami (paper
folding) Holiday program on December 4, 1993 and requested Council
action to declare that day as "Origami Day ".
A motion was made by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro,
and unanimously approved, recommending that the Mayor draft a
proclamation declaring Saturday, December 4th, 1993 as Rohnert Park
"Origami Day"
School District /Cities Comtunications Committee:
Councilman Eck reported on the School District /Cities Comnanications
Committee meeting held on October 28, 1993 which Councilman Eck, Vice
Mayor Reilly and the City Manager attended. Highlights of the meeting
were also reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo. Discussion included
confirmation that the 4th Thursdays of each month has been established
as a regular meeting date for this joint committee with the next
meeting scheduled for January 1994.
In reference to the After School Self- Esteem Program, it was reported
that a letter is being sent to Mr. Herb Cody requesting him to contact
the School District and City of Cotati to make a formal presentation.
Following this, a representative from each Agency would meet and see
if a joint program could be developed.
Comnunications- Comnmication per the attached outline were brought to the attention
of the City Council. No action was taken unless specifically noted in
these minutes.
Matters from/for Council:
1. General Plan /20 Year Master Plan / "Blue Ribbon Committee" - Councilwoman Gallagher
confirmed her request for this item to be placed on the agenda. She
said the idea of a Blue Ribbon Committee for the General Plan was
brought up by the Mayor several months ago. She expressed concern
that it is only 25 months away from 1995 and said there are many
reasons for the Council to proceed now on the General Plan Master Plan.
Discussion included review of General Plan Update procedures with
acknowledgment of the recent extensive efforts of the General Plan
Citizens Advisory Committee that resulted in a draft of what is
considered an updated version of the General Plan, current Planning
Commission process including public hearings to thoroughly review the
matter, and the need to honor the commitment to review that plan.
Councilwoman Gallagher said, for the record, that it needed to be made
clear that the referenced General Plan Update was motivated by a
developer. Further discussion included acknowledgment of the no growth
desire signified by results of previous Rohnert Park resident surveys
along with the realization of being faced with ABAG requirements. "
Discussion concluded in a motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by
Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, to refer this matter to
the General Plan Council • Committee for further review with staff and
clarification of the time table.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) November 9, 1993
The remaining matters from Council listed on the agenda were handled
in the rearranged order as signified in these minutes.
2. Senior Center designation as a Senior Emergency Shelter - Councilwoman Spiro
explained that the Senior Center has a lot of supplies available to
provide for emergencies but it has not been officially designated as
an emergency shelter. She recommended this designation, as well as
the establishment of similar provisions to be encouraged at mobile
home parks. Discussion concluded in Council concurrence with the City
Manager's recommendation to review the matter with Public Safety
Representative John Ellis to ensure that the Senior Center complies
with emergency shelter requirements. Council also agreed it would be
appropriate to recommend emergency shelter designations at the Council
Committee /staff meetings with mobile home park representatives.
3. Need for a cemetery in Rohnert Park - Councilwoman Spiro expressed concerns
related to the need for a cemetery in Rohnert Park. Discussion
included the complexities involved ranging from borderline population
requirements and qualified uses of land for establishing a cemetery in
a comn.xni ty .
James W. Clark, 80 Walnut Circle, said his business background experience with his
parents qualified the merit of his comments related to this matter.
He made attempts toward this effort about fourteen years ago through
an investment society that has since gone defunct. However, the
information obtained through the effort signified that Rohnert Park
did not have adequate ground available or the amount of money needed
to invest for the development of a mausoleum, a crematorium or a
cemetery for earth interment. Agricultural land is not used for this
type of development.
Councilwoman Spiro said she would still like to look at possibilities.
4. Need for a convalescent hospital in Rohnert Park - Councilwoman Spiro said there
was the need for a convalescent hospital in Rohnert Park. Councilman
Eck responded that there are interested people looking into the matter.
James W. Clark, 80 Walnut Circle, said there was a proposal currently floating
around the comntnity with consideration of a thirty bed convalescent
hospital at the Primary Care location. He understood that the doctors
in the comnmity are in favor of this.
Councilman Eck added that it would be necessary to keep letting people
know that the City is willing to review and consider such proposals.
5. Setting date for rotation of Council officers and consideration of other Council
meeting cancellations during the holidays - Council agreed to leave
the option open regarding the possible cancellation of the November
23rd, 1993 regular Council meeting scheduled during Thanksgiving week
and proceed with it only if necessary.
Council confirmed that the first week in December is the traditional
time for rotation of Council officers and agreed to set December 7th,
1993 at 7:00 p.m. for this occasion.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (12) November 9, 1993
Council acknowledged the historical and traditional cancellation of
the second Council meeting in December due to the holiday and,
therefore, concurred cancellation of the December 28th, 1993 regularly
scheduled City Council meeting.
6. "Call to Action" conference - Councilwoman Spiro expressed appreciation for the
opportunity to attend this conference which was sold out and very
worthwhile. She said the best segment she attended was on working
with difficult people. If further information is desired, Ms. Spiro
said she bought the book and would be willing to share it upon request.
7. Designated smoking area at Red Lobster - Vice Mayor Reilly referenced the City's
non - smoking ordinance for restaurants and said he noticed smoking is
currently allowed in the lounge at the Red Lobster Restaurant. This
lounge is open on two sides which he thought qualified under the non-
smoking ordinance restrictions. City Manager Netter said there had
been an inspection of this site which concluded that ventilation was
adequate for smoking. He said another inspection would be made.
8. Scheduled agenda items - Councilwoman Gallagher requested that agenda items be
handled according to scheduled times signified on the agendas because
so often people attending the Council meetings for scheduled
appearances have to wait unreasonable lengths of time for their items
due to the numerous unscheduled appearances. She also requested
having a designated start time for the Council meetings as this has
been moved around. Discussion included Council comments that people
for scheduled public appearances always have the option of letting the
Mayor know about their specific time frames and needs. The unforeseen
length of discussions, including the amount of time needed for
unscheduled public appearances, is the reason for the disclaimer
statement placed on agendas. Most cities only have one time set for
unscheduled appearances but Rohnert Park has a time set both at the
beginning and at the end of its Council meetings and, under the
circumstances, does the best it can to comply with the time frames
listed on agendas.
6. Rent Appeals Board Joint Meeting results - Councilman Eck reviewed reasons for
concerns related to Council directive to the Mobile Home Rent Appeals
Board pertaining to potential ordinance modifications. He had the
feeling from some of the Board Members and from some resident feed
back that the Board is uncomfortable with this directive. He said
Council can ask for recommendations from the Rent Appeals Board but
the bottom line responsibility lies with the Council. Councilman. Eck
recommended proceeding with consideration of Ordinance 494
modifications as the Council did previously with Ordinance 495. Mayor
Hollingsworth expressed agreement with these comments but said the
difficulty is that there is no single representation from the mobile
home parks and no one agrees with anybody which presents a quandary
for Council no matter what it does. Discussion ensued regarding the
complexities of this issue. Comparisons were made to the flexibility
of coming under the County umbrella with suggestion that the question
be presented in a survey to provide an opportunity for residents to
let Council know if they feel this is an appropriate direction.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) November 9, 1993
Katherine Collins, Rent Appeals Board Member, asked if Council would like the
question to address the County issue added to the survey currently
being prepared by the Rent Appeals Board since it had not yet been
finalized. She said the Board had only planned to prepare a data
track sheet and this would change it from the data sheet survey to an
opinion request. Since the Board had already asked for opinions, she
was not certain of the complications the change might cause.
Further discussion concluded in Council concurrence to refer the
matter to the Rent Appeals Board to give them a chance first to
consider the data related to the County proposal.
City 1. Coordinated Resource Management & Planning (CRMP) Process for the
Manager's Laguna de Santa Rosa - City Manager Netter said meetings for this item
Report: will start the first part of January 1994 and the City has been placed
on the mailing list for notices. He requested Council to advise
accordingly, if interested in these meetings.
2. City employee appreciation /recognition of service award recipients -
City Manager Netter referred to the list of 41 City employees eligible
to receive service awards for the year ending 1993. Since the annual
appreciation event was one of the items eliminated from the budget,
Mr. Netter said he had been discussing possibilities with Department
Heads regarding how to effectively extend recognition, such as several
small gatherings or one large occasion. Mayor Hollingsworth suggested
utilization of the Performing Arts Center as a possibility for an
awards type of ceremony which would be appropriate to invite employee
families and serve light refreshments. Council agreed.
3. Dinner with employee association representatives - City Manager Netter
said this is a traditional dinner following the signing of the
agreements with the employee bargaining groups. This dinner has been
scheduled at Lorenzo's on November 18, 1993 with representatives from
each group, the Mayor and the City Manager.
4. Director of Public Safety Robert Dennett retirement dinner - City
Manager Netter confirmed this retirement dinner has been scheduled for
November 20th, 1993.
5. Bicycle Plan Public Workshop - City Manager Netter referred to the
public notice for this workshop to be held at City Hall on November
20th, 1993 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
6. Rent Appeals Board appointments - City Manager Netter shared contents
of letter dated November 4, 1993 from Patty Coe signifying her
resignation from the Rent Appeal Board because she has moved and is no
longer an official resident of Rohnert Park. Mr. Netter also shared
contents of staff report dated November 5, 1993 pertaining to factors
related to Rent Appeals Board appointments. In addition to the
announced resignation of Patty Coe, the terms of Board Members
Kitty Collins, Mary Sobel and Susan Aldeza expire on December 31st,
1993. All three have indicated the desire to be reappointed. Mayor
Hollingsworth confirmed that Patty Coe was his nomination to the
appointment and directed staff to advertise the opening. Discussion
included comments pertaining to probable re- appointment of the other
two Board Members.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (14) November 9, 1993
City Attorney's report:
1. Opinion regarding Wine Center agreement - City Attorney Flitner shared
contents of his memorandum dated September 16, 1993 regarding the Wine
Center Agreement. He responded to Council questions confirming the
conclusion that it would be not be logical reasoning to stop the
monthly $10,000 payment to the Wine Center because of the counter-
productive results that the Wine Center would no longer be obligated
to pay the $3600 monthly rent nor would the forthcoming overage from
subrents be paid to the City. Discussion followed.
2. Brown Act amendments - City Attorney Flitner reviewed contents of his
memorandum dated November 3, 1993 regarding the Brown Act amendments
to become effective April 1, 1994 as a result of SB 36, SB 1140,
and AB 1426
3. Sim vs. City of Rohnert Park appeal - City Attorney Flitner said this
appeal was anticipated to be argued the first of the year but an
amicus filing set it back to probably March or April.
Unscheduled
Public Mayor Hollingsworth asked if anyone in the audience wished to make an
Appearances appearance at this time.
Adjournment Mayor Hollingsworth adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:24 p.m.
___ (1, �* , /,/_,I
� Z_ wa,- � - "
Dep Cit Cler
jh
Y__ j�_4_
Mayor
AN
Rohnert bark Community Assembly of God
4695 Snyder Lane P.O. Box 1664
Rohnert Park, California 94928
(707) 584 -LORD (5673)
Chip Worthington, Pastor
11-09-93
City Of Rohnert Park
6750 Commerce Blvd.
Rohnert Park , Ca. 94928
Dear Councilpersons, Staff, and Recreation Dept. Director, Jim Pekkain :
In appreciation and support of your outstanding Friday Night Teen program,
we are pleased to present to you a check for $425.
We have raised these funds through a community harvest carnival, called
Fun Fest '93, held on October 31 st, 1993. It was attended by over 300
children, teens and parents.
We were assisted by the following group of community sponsors: Castino
Restaurant Equip. & Supply, The Codding Foundation, Century 27
Classic Prop. Real Estate, Debra Investment Corp., Exchange
Bank, Pioneer Tire & Brake, Food For Less, Mullins
Construction, MacDonald Insurance, Oliver's Market, Jimmie
Rogers, M. P. Rosen Inc., Young America Homes, Roger Wilco
Market and various individuals.
We sponsored a community event to benefit this city. We believe as all
segments of our city co- operate together, government, private
businesses, churches and non - profit organizations and private citizens,
we will be able to help our teens.
Sincerely
Rohnert Park Assemly of God
Pastor Chi; Worthington
.�