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1994/07/12 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Approval of The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in regular motion of Councilwoman Spiro, seconded by session commencing at 6:00 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Bills Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with Mayor Reilly presiding. Call to Mayor Reilly called the regular session to order at approximately Order 6:25 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance. $946,375.83 Mayor Reilly announced that a closed session commenced this evening at 6:00 p.m. to discuss litigation matters of Hallock vs. Non - Agendaed City of Rohnert Park, Hillsboro vs. City of Rohnert Park; and to Reilly asked if any Councilmember review real estate negotiations relative to a revisionary clause items to add to on the sewer plant land. Roll Call Present: (4) Councilmembers Eck, Gallagher, Spiro, and she had Mayor Reilly Absent: (1) Councilman Hollingsworth (on vacation) Councilwoman Gallagher responded Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager a miscellaneous Netter, City Attorney Flitner, Assistant City Manager Leivo, item, Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust, Planning Director a wastewater Skanchy, and Recreation Director Pekkain. Approval of Upon motion of Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilwoman Minutes Spiro, the minutes of June 21, 1994 were unanimously approved as submitted. Councilwoman Spiro referred to page 8 of the June 28, 1994 minutes and requested that under the Communications section, ABAG matter, that the words "of constitutional revision" replace "regarding local government." Upon motion of Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, with Vice Mayor Eck abstaining, the minutes of June 28, 1994 were unanimously approved as corrected. Approval of Upon motion of Councilwoman Spiro, seconded by Vice Mayor Eck, Bills City bills presented per the attached list in the amount of $946,375.83 were unanimously approved. Non - Agendaed Mayor Reilly asked if any Councilmember had any items to add to items the agenda. Councilwoman Spiro stated she had a miscellaneous item, Councilwoman Gallagher responded she had a miscellaneous item, and Vice Mayor Eck advised he had a wastewater matter to bring up. Unscheduled Mayor Reilly stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown Public Act), citizens wishing to make a comment may do so at this time. Appearances Persons speaking under unscheduled public appearances are requested to submit completed cards to the recording clerk. 1 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Lee Rosichan- 842 Lilac Way, Rohnert Park, requested that "H" Pool be opened in the month of February to enable the Rancho Cotate High School swim team to have ample practice. He expressed concern that since the Rohnert Park Swim Club has moved to Sonoma State University that the "H" Pool would not be available to the students early enough in the year, and ideally they would like it to be opened year round. City Manager Netter assured Mr. Rosichan that the February opening of "H" Pool has been budgeted, but that staff was requesting the high school swim team to continue fundraising to help offset the costs. Linda Branscomb- 6585 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park, stated she hopes that the City would not be charging City Council candidates the $273 fee for submitting Statements of Qualifications to be printed on the ballot for the November 8th election, as she feels those who may not be able to afford the fee should not be hindered from running for office. Ms. Branscomb then referred to an article on modern planning which she provided to the Council. Nanci Spangler- 7292 Calcutta Ct., Rohnert Park, referred to City Manager Netter's Council Meeting Memo relative to the Child I.D.. Program and stated that she certainly hopes the City Council will opt for the most effective program and not just base its decision on the least expensive program. Mayor Reilly assured that he has worked with staff in an effort to strive for the most effective program. C O N S E N T C A L E N D A R Mayor Reilly asked if any Councilmember had any questions regarding the matters on the Consent Calendar. Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the agenda. Resolutions: No. 94 -112 DESIGNATING, AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING INSTALLATION OF STOP SIGNS (ON BRENDA WAY NORTHBOUND AT BARON DRIVE AND ON BARBI LANE NORTHBOUND AT BARON DRIVE) No. 94 -113 CALLING FOR SEALED BIDS, OVERLAYS -1994, PROJECT NO. 1994 -4 Approval of Parcel Map No. 154 - Scandia Fun Center - Expansion of existing facility for a mini Indy Race Track and parking lot. Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, the consent calendar as outlined on the meeting agenda was unanimously approved. National Lisa Frey, 7291 Corinth Ct., Rohnert Park, was recognized and Night Out informed of her involvement with National Night Out and the resolution being presented this evening. She referenced many activities that are being planned for this August 2, 1994 event 2 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 and some of the individuals involved, stating that Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey will be participating. Discussion followed wherein City Manager Netter advised that the Department of Public Safety has been actively working on the National Night Out event. Councilwoman Gallagher commended Lisa Frey on pursuing the idea. It was the consensus of the Council that in light of the fact the resolution was not made available in ample time to read over carefully that the resolution would be adopted by title at this time and be rescheduled for final approval at the July 26, 1994 Council meeting. Resolution No. 94 -114 DECLARING AUGUST 2, 1994 "NATIONAL NIGHT OUT" Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Gallagher, and unanimously approved, Resolution No. 94 -114 was adopted by title. Mobile Home City Attorney Flitner referenced his memorandum of July 7, 1994 Rent Control relative to the status conference and settlement discussions pertaining to the Hillsboro Properties vs. City of Rohnert Park capital improvements pass - through litigation matter. He explained implications of Attorney Spangenburg's offer and referred to other rent control cases. He stated that he feels we cannot accept the settlement offer as presented. Discussion followed during which Mayor Reilly further explained the offer made by mobile home park owners and that Judge Fern Smith, before whom the status conference was held, suggested that the details of the offer be taken back to the mobile home park residents. Mayor Reilly also gave background information on the reasons for the current settlement offer and advised that the Council has not taken any position on this matter. Further discussion ensued wherein Councilman Eck suggested that the proposed settlement information should be disseminated to all the mobile home park residents to afford them an opportunity to take a good look at the proposal. City Attorney Flitner added that another status conference has been scheduled for August 5, 1994. The Council concluded that this matter should be placed on the next regular City Council meeting agenda on July 26, 1994, and that in the meantime the City Attorney, the mobile home park owners representative David Spangenburg, and the Council's ad hoc committee should meet to work out some refinements to the offer. The full City Council would then meet to hear and consider results of the committee meeting before the matter is brought back to the regularly scheduled meeting on July 26, 1994. It was concluded that the first meeting will be scheduled for July 20, 1994, with the City Attorney the full Council to meet on July 21, 1994 to prepare for its formal discussion and possible decision on July 26, 1994. 3 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Nan Crawford, 394 Circulo La Cruz, Rohnert Park asked if City Attorney Flitner could ask for a time extension for maybe 30 days to enable more extensive study and consideration of the offer. City Attorney Flitner advised that the City has already been granted a 30 day extension on this matter, but that if it is apparent that progress is being made, perhaps another extension could be granted. Lorna Blanc, 43 Verde Circle, advised that the 5 -Park Committee would be meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 17, 1994 at St. John's United Methodist Church and requested that copies of the proposal being sent to all the mobile home park residents also be provided to the members of the committee in time for that meeting. She also invited City Attorney v,un_ r r I itn er to attend the meeting • Recess & At this point in the meeting, the time being approximately 7:10 Reconvene p.m. Mayor Reilly called a brief recess. Mayor Reilly reconvened the meeting at approximately 7:15 p.m. Flags Mayor Reilly announced that the flags at the City facilities are at Half -Mast being flown at half -mast in honor and respect to those firefighters who lost their lives in the recent Colorado fires. He read a letter from the Department of Public Safety to the U.S. Forestry service regarding same. Mayor Reilly stated that in past times the City has received calls from residents inquiring why the flags are at half -mast. Interest City Attorney Flitner referred to his memorandums dated April 21, on Security 1994 and July 7, 1994 (copies attached to the original set of Deposits these minutes) relative to the matter of paying interest on security deposits to renters by landlords. He again opined that the City ordinance could not override the laws set forth in the Business & Professions Code Section 10145. The provisions of the City's proposed ordinance would apply to interest payments on residential property only. He informed of the State's laws relative to the placement of such funds into interest bearing accounts. Dick Mathews, 532 College Avenue, Santa Rosa, spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance, stating that it is not warranted and that it should be a negotiable factor between landlords and tenants. He enlightened the Council on some of his experiences when he paid interest on security deposits. Carlos Rivas, 1250 Coddingtown Center, Santa Rosa, who is President of the Sonoma County Realtors Association, opposed the adoption of the ordinance as written citing the administration costs for such program. Sandra Geary, 5759 Country Club Dr., Rohnert Park, informed she feels rental business is a private enterprise obligated to pay the City's business license tax and that the City Council has no business interfering with private business. She stated she feels payment of interest on security deposits should strictly be a negotiable item and that tenants should be given the right to choose. 4 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Mike McCallum, 1208 4th Street, Santa Rosa, opposed the ordinance, saying it would cost more to administrate than the interest that would be paid. He stated he feels it will cause many problems and the parties to rental agreements should be able to negotiate this option. Ben Friedman, 655 Enterprise Dr., Rohnert Park, spoke in favor of the ordinance and cited a recent Supreme Court case, referring to a copy of a newspaper clipping of which was provided to the City Council. He then threatened to send a letter to the Department of Justice, saying that the City would be defying the 5th Amendment if they did not adopt the ordinance. Discussion followed regarding consequences of small claims incidents, costs of administering such a program, and the involvement of financial institutions. Councilwoman Spiro questioned the matter of whether a grandfather clause would apply. It was determined that, if adopted, the provisions would apply 30 days from adoption and would not be grandfathered in. Mayor Reilly stated that, if adopted, a provision should be added to Section 3 making it clear that the tenant and landlord could negotiate allowing for the tenant to waive his /her rights to interest and wants it made clear that they have the choice. Council concurred. Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT No. 587 OF INTEREST ON SECURITY DEPOSITS Upon motion of Councilwoman Spiro, seconded by Councilman Eck, Ordinance No. 587, with the addition to Section 3 as suggested, was adopted by the following roll call vote: Councilman Eck NO Councilwoman Gallagher AYE Councilman Hollingsworth ABSENT Councilwoman Spiro AYE Mayor Reilly AYE Smoking in City Manager Netter reviewed the ordinance and advised that a Bingo public hearing regarding this matter had been held at the City Halls Council meeting of June 28, 1994. Ordinance AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING SECTION 8.32.060 No. 588 OF CHAPTER 8.32 OF THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROHIBIT SMOKING IN BINGO HALLS OPERATED PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 9.66 OF THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE Upon motion by Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, Ordinance No. 588 was adopted. 1994 -95 City Manager Netter stated that tonight's public hearing on the Budget & proposed fees had been duly noticed in concert with the City Fees Council's request to review the fees listed on the agenda during its budget considerations each year. 5 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Mayor Reilly opened the public hearing. No one responded. Mayor Reilly closed the public hearing. Capital Discussion followed. Resolution RESOLUTION AMENDING PER ACRE FOR DEVELOPMENT FEE No. 94 -115 recommended recreation facility Upon motion of Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and listing which had been unanimously approved, Resolution No. 94 -115 was adopted. Resolution RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING SEWER SERVICE No. 94-116 CONNECTION FEES Projects Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and He noted unanimously approved, Resolution No. 94 -116 was adopted. Resolution A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK No. 94 -117 AMENDING SPECIAL WATER CONNECTION FEE budget work Upon motion of Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, Resolution No.. 94 -117 was adopted. Resolution A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK ESTABLISHING FEES FOR No. 94 -118 WATER /WASTEWATER CONSERVATION FEE FUND funding for items Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and 6. unanimously approved, Resolution No. 94 -118 was adopted. Resolution RESOLUTION UPDATING FUTURE TRAFFIC SIGNAL NEEDS AND INCREASING No. 94 -119 TRAFFIC SIGNALS FEE FOR THE ROHNERT PARK MAJOR THOROUGHFARE DISTRICT Upon motion of Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, Resolution No. 94 -119 was adopted. Ordinance AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 15, No. 589 SECTION 15.40.020 (Capital Outlay Fund Fees Adjustment for Introduction Increase in Cost of Construction Index) Upon motion by Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, Ordinance No. 589 was introduced. Capital City Manager Netter referred to the Parks & Recreation Commission's Outlay Funds- recommended recreation facility priorities listing which had been Proposed provided to the Council (copy attached to the original set of Projects these minutes). He noted that the City Council will be considering these items at its budget work session scheduled for July 18, 1994. The City Manager said staff is recommending funding for items #'s 1, 4, and 6. City Manager Netter referenced Item No. 3 on the priorities list; namely "B" Park improvements. He referred to a plan on display and gave details of the proposed improvements. Mr. Netter stated that staff has not yet been able to meet with School 2 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 District representatives to discuss the possibility of sharing costs of the improvements. The City Manager also stated that the City Hall building sorely needs a facelift and is in hopes funds might be available to replace the roof and modernize this facility, which he estimates would cost approximately $30,000 to $50,000. He added that staff also recommends allocating $40,000 to improve the Community Center entrance at Snyder lane. These items culd be discussed in greater detail at the next City Council budget work session scheduled for July 18, 1994 at 5:00 p.m. Discussion followed. Parks & Recreation Matters: In -line Recreation Director Pekkain referred to his staff report Skating containing the Parks and Recreation Commission's recommendations to accommodate the need for areas to allow in -line skating. He also referred to a letter received from Cal Skate offering use of the area east of their building to develop an outdoor roller hockey site similar to that of the Redwood Empire Ice Arena in Santa Rosa. Discussion ensued. Councilwoman Spiro asked about insurance coverage and risks involved with an in -line skating facility. City Manager Netter informed that the City's insurance carrier, REMIF, advised that the city would be covered but that waivers should be provided to limit the City's exposure. It was suggested that signs might also be posted at the in -line skating facilities stating they would be at the user's own risk. Upon motion of Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilman Eck, the Parks and Recreation Commission's recommendation to convert the single tennis court at G -Park into an in -line skating rink was unanimously approved with the understanding that this undertaking will be accomplished as soon as possible. Spiro leaves At approximately 8:13 p.m., Councilwoman Spiro left the Council Chambers. Pirates Recreation Director Pekkain referred to his staff report Women's containing the Parks & Recreation Commission's recommendations on Softball Joyce Poueu's requests for a fee waiver plus a City contribution request of $1,000 towards a fundraiser being held by the Pirates Women's Softball team. The Parks & Recreation Commission recommended a fee waiver of $155. Discussion followed. Councilman Eck reiterated the City Council's policy of avoiding the granting of fee waivers and solely making recommendations of contributions for community promotions only. Joyce Poueu was recognized and explained the fee waiver request, informed that they are actually asking for cash donations, and stated the team is holding fundraisers to finance a trip to the USSSA Women's Nationals in September at Salem, Virginia. Spiro At approximately 8:17 p.m., Councilwoman Spiro returned to the returns Chambers. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes A motion was made by Councilwoman to the Pirates Women's Softball lack of a second. Further discussion followed. July 12, 1994 Gallagher to giVe a $500 donation Team. Said motion died due to Upon motion by Councilwoman Gallagher, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, a contribution of $250 will be donated to the Pirates Women's Softball Team to help offset travel costs for the Tournament in Salem, Virginia. Fire City Manager Netter referred to a memorandum from the Department Services of Public Safety relative to the Fire Services Division response to a fire which recently occurred on Lunar Court. Mayor Reilly read a portion of the memo regarding response times. (Copy of memo attached to original set of these minutes). City Manager Netter added that our Department of Public Safety is working on joining in on a mutual aid plan with the Rancho Adobe Fire Services District and other proposals to augment our fire services which will be further discussed at the budget work session. Discussion followed. Councilwoman Gallagher formation of a Public Safety Commission to ads solutions. City Manager Netter referred to a visit to the City of Sunnyvale in March of 1993 a public safety services and Rohnert Park's ongoing the same level of service. A copy of this report to the City Council. suggested the cress long term staff committee report on their goal to provide will be provided Dean Huber, 845 Lunar Ct., Rohnert Park, said he worked with the Forestry Service in San Francisco and commended the City's action in lowering the flags to half mast for the lost Colorado firefighters. He then added that his home was a victim of the recent Lunar Ct. fire and feels that this could have been avoided. Mr. Huber stated that the Department of Public Safety needs to come up with solutions, not excuses. He stated that he also recommends a fully staffed, full time Fire Department. Margaret Mcisaac, 838 Lunar Ct., Rohnert Park, stated that she had read an article which indicated the Department of Public Safety was going to increase staff and questioned if that means firefighters or j��+ Dnhlie- ,nfoty nffirare. uat, uu .. -- - Margaret Johnson, 614 Corte Moreno, Rohnert Park, read from a statement (copy attached to the original set of these minutes) regarding a fire which had occurred in Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park where she resides. She requested an investigation into fire response times and the methods used to fight fires. Blake Titus, 839 Lunar Ct., Rohnert Park, expressed his opinion that the recent fire should be investigated and feels that response time was inadequate. He said Rohnert Park needs a full time fire department. He also stated that he plans to be at every City Council meeting until we have a real Fire Department. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Don McIsaac, 838 Lunar Ct., Rohnert Park, said he was a fireman for 13 years, that he watched the fire from his front yard, and that he was totally embarrassed to see how the fire was fought. He stated he thinks we need a full time fire department. Jack MacBurt, 857 Lunar Ct., Rohnert Park, said he is a 20 year veteran with the arson unit of the Marin County Fire Department and was present when the fire broke out on Lunar Ct. He said he is in disagreement with the response times noted in the Department of Public Safety Fire Services Commander's memorandum. He also noted that he feels we need more adequate equipment for medical aid calls. Ralph Kircher, 128 Verde Circle, Rohnert Park, read a letter prepared by his daughter, who resides at the same address, recounting circumstances surrounding a fire at their mobile home park. (Copy of letter is attached to the original set of these minutes.) Jeff Allen, 794 Bernice Avenue, Rohnert Park, said he had been a volunteer firefighter with the Department of Public Safety for 15 years, that he was let go because he could not make all training sessions, that he feels Community Service Officers are not qualified to fight fires, and that he supports development of a Public Safety Commission to determine the City's needs. Discussion followed wherein it was noted that Public Safety staffing will be considered at the next budget work session. A motion was made by Councilwoman Gallagher to form a Public Safety Commission. Said motion died due to lack of a second. Recess and Mayor Reilly called for a recess, the time being approximately Reconvene 9:30 p.m. The Mayor then reconvened the meeting at approximately 9:40 p.m. Planning and Zoning matter: File No. 1585 - Codding Enterprises proposed Laguna Apartments Project - Planning Director Skanchy reviewed the project and advised that the Planning Commission minutes and Planning staff reports had been provided to the Council. He referred to the plans on display. Councilman Eck stated that he had called this matter up as he had some concerns about the parking provisions which are provided in item #3 in the listed conditions and inquired if there was a need to add to the parking if this could be done without causing a lot of fuss. Hugh Codding and David Codding gave their word that if additional parking is necessary they would expand the parking to the adjacent property. Councilwoman Spiro asked about fire services and other amenities that would be needed. Hugh Codding advised that there already exists a fire house which is located next to Goodyear Tires. W] Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Councilman Eck made a motion to overrule the Planning Commission's action, Mayor Reilly seconded the motion. Said motion failed on 2 -2 vote. Councilman Eck added that he supports Planning Commissioner Vida Jones' comments in the minutes relative to this project and stated that the Planning Commission should be treated with respect. Nov. 1994 Election - Mayor Reilly referred to staff memo regarding the November for aH<, ri+„ +n nnv fnr ranriiriat.ec 6, 1994 election grid the opt ion for 1��� � � �., �� rug • �• � -••-- • -• -___ statements and choice of limiting said statements to either 200 words or 400 words. Discussion followed. Upon motion of Councilman Eck, seconded by Councilwoman Spiro, and unanimously approved, the City will pay the $273 per candidate fee for candidates statements of qualifications and will limit the statements to 200 words. Extended Meeting Time - Due to the lateness of the hour, approximately 10:10 p.m., it was the consensus of the Council that only those pressing items would be discussed tonight and that, except for items listed on the agenda for informational purposes only, the remaining items would be deferred until the meeting of July 26, 1994. Underground Petroleum Tanks - City Engineer Brust, the City's representative to the Environmental Resource Council, referred to his memorandum dated July 7, 1994 and reported on the progress of Senate Bill SB 1764, a bill which would improve the State Underground Petroleum Storage Tank Cleanup Program, and stated that at present there seems to be a lot of support of the bill so far and has a good chance of passing the Senate. Child ID Program - Assistant City Manager Leivo referred to his staff report on the options to pursue in developing a Child ID Program. Discussion followed. Councilwoman Spiro suggested that the photographing should not be limited to one photographer. r^tanrilmnn Eck stated it should be stressed that this program is aivuna. un to be strictly voluntary. Mayor Reilly clarified for Nancy Spangler, who was in the audience and raised the question, that the program will not be limited to just K -6 graders, but that it would include babies and preschoolers as well. It was the consensus of the Council that staff prepare a request for proposals (RFP) to get the Child ID Program underway. Communications - Communications per the attached outline were brought to the attention of the City Council. No action was taken unless specifically noted in these minutes. 10 Rohnert Park City Council Minutes July 12, 1994 Councilwoman Gallagher letter to Director of Public Safety - City Manager Netter referenced said letter and stated the letter should have actually been sent to him as City Manager as he had authorized the Public Safety Officer to attend the neighborhood meeting. Also, he said that Councilwoman Gallagher nor any other Councilmember should be directing Director of Public Safety Rooney or his staff to do tasks. Specifically, Councilwoman Gallagher had directed Director Rooney to contact two "S" section residents regarding the "S" section Neighborhood Watch meeting. The residents were under the impression that an officer would be present at the meeting after talking with Councilwoman Gallagher before Director of Public Safety Rooney was able to respond. This caused confusion and a flyer was distributed with inaccurate information. Discussion followed during which it was concluded by the majority of the Council that the Neighborhood Watch Program must be initiated by the Department of Public Safety, coming from staff up, not from City Council down. Adjournment Mayor Reilly adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:18 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday, July 18, 1994, for another 1994 -95 Budget Work Session. Deputy City Clerk I 11 III r f , . My name is Joan Fiorillo, and I live at 128 Verde Circle, in Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park. I have prepared this statement to be read by my father, Ralph Kircher, in my absence. I am unable to attend this meeting in person. Due to the events occurring since March 12, 1994 I have sustained severe cardiac damage. The actual physical effort of fighting to preserve my home from the fire that took place on March 12, and the ensuing effort to have the park remove the hazardous remains of the burned -out coach culminated in my requiring emergency cardiac treatment. I am under strict restrictions imposed on me by my cardiologist to avoid all occaisions of stress that could further jeopardize my weakened cardiac reserve. My recollection of the events that occurred the night of March 12th have not been diminished; they remain very vivid in every detail. The recent article in the Press Democrat ( July 5, 1994 ), referring to a house fire at Lunar Court in April of this year served to remind me of the inconsistencies of the log times reported by Public Saftey, as opposed to the actual call and response time as applied to the fire that so recently endangered my home and family. The article also recalled several questions regarding the skill and training of the fire personnel at the �ir I 2 on March 12th, at exectly 1 A.M., as I was preparing for bed I noticed bright lights in all the windows of the house next -door to mine. That mobile home, at 126 Verde Circle, was the residence of Ms. Cindy Mondino. I had thought, at the time, that Ms. Mondino was in her house. As I looked out my bedroom window I was surprised to see several bright flashes of light. It was in that instant that I realized that the house was on fire. I screamed to alert my father, who was preparring for bed at the front end of my house. I ran to my kitchen phone -as it has pre - programmed numbers for 911, police, etc. The phone also has a digital display of the time the call is being placed. At the operator's question of "what is your emergency"? I replied *fire at Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park;w The operator asked me if I just smelled smoke or could I see flames. I stated, again, that it was a mobile home, the address was 126 Verde Circle, and the trailer is completely engulfed in flames; and the flames were coming towards my house. The time on my phone was 1;04 A.M. At that time my father ran outside, in his pajamas, to grab the garden hose. The windows of the house all burst outward; flames were everywhere -all coming in the direction of my house. I ran to get another hose to try and stave off the flames that were shooting directly at my house. I kept screaming "fire', to alert the other neighbors that lived directly behind me. My neighbor, to the rear of my house, Pi Ms. Margaret (Molly) Johnson ran out of her house, grabbed her hose and started hosing my house, and me, as the flames were not more than two feet over my head. At precisely 1 :15 the back door blew off Cindy Mondino's house - pieces of the door were burning and soared onto my roof. Molly and I hosed off my roof to keep the hot pieces of the metal door frame from igniting my roof. It was the sound of the door exploding -as it burst away from the rest of the house that alerted the other neighbors. Ms.Johnson's roommate, Ms. Carol Holliday heard what she thought was an explosion. She, and other neighbors confirmed that the time was 1 :15. We then heard sirens; two police cars and an ambulance arrived, but no fire - fighting equipment. The policemen made Molly and I drop our hoses and leave the area. I was afraid my house was going to burn and I ran into my house, grabbed my cat and forced him into his cat carrier. I ran back outside and handed the carrier to my neighber, Carol Holliday for safe - keeping. As I ran out of my kitchen with my cat - -it was 1 :30. I have worked in hospitals all my adult life; in emergency rooms,,on ambulance calls and in critical care units. Exact recording of time and events are mandAtory in such circumstances, it was a reflex, on my part to keep checking the time. I had just ran back to my position with my hose when we heard the first fire engine arrive. One of the neighbors had called out "its 1 :33, what took them so long"? From my vantage point at the rear of the house and yard it I W was difficult to see what was happening on the street. My father, who had been hosing the middle of my house, until he also was ordered to leave by a police officer, and other neighbors who had gathered on the street noticed that the firemen had difficulty taking the hose from the fire engine. Apparently too much hose had come off the fire truck and had become entangled. The firemen had to pull the length of hose up the street, to un- tangle it. This added what seemed to be an interminable amount of time, to the time that had already elapsed. I thought the firemen would immediately come through my yard and begin applying water to the fire. The house was burning from the center towards the rear of the coach. The wind was driving the flames directly over my head and towards my house. I kept screaming for someone to bring water to the back - where we so desperately needed it. Instead, the firemen applied water from their hoses -by standing in the street. This succeded in forcing the flames towards the rear of the coach, and towards the house directly in back of the one on fire. There is only a narrow foot path sepetrating the rows of mobile homes. The house in back of the one burning was starting to smoke. Large burning embers were being blown onto that house, as well as mine. I kept forcinj the water from my garden hose in an arc - first to the house directly in the rear and in the path of the flames, and back again over my house. The firemen had moveit to the left, or far side of the burning 5 house. There was very little evidence of fire on that side. As the firemen hosed that side of the house the flames all came towards me. The heat and intensity of the fire became overwhelming. I was certain that I was going to loose my house; I could not hold all those flames back with a garden hose. One fireman did bring a fire hose through my yard, and past me, but the hose was not used until the fire was almost out. If you look at the pictures taken after the fire you can see the areas most affected by the fire. The flames were driven so far towards the rear of the burning coach that they scorched the oleander hedges of a neighbor in the rear -and several houses away from the actual fire. I was not aware of the discrepancy of the actual times of the arrival of the firemen and equipment until several days after the fire. My insurance company told me to obtain the police report number for my insurance claim. I asked for, and was given the "recorded" times as follows: police report # 94 -4960 March 12, 1 :30 A.M. first call received 1 :31 A^ police respond 1 :33 A.M. watch commander responds 1:35 A.M. second fire team responds These times are grossly innacurate. Besides the initial call I made at 1 :04 A.M. several other calls were made by other neighbors- between 1 :05 and 1 :20A.M. My father and I went to the Public Safety Office on March 23rd to answer questions pertinent to the arson investigation that was being conducted. My father asked the investigating officer why we did not get any water directed towards our house when it was so obviously threatened. We were told that the firemen did not want to cause any water damage. We both responded that the possibility of water damage was far less serious tha- llpfosing the entire structure to the flames. The entire outer wall of my porch was burned. The insulation and interior pa4elling and venetian blinds melted from the intense heat. All the windows on the left side of the house were broken, again, from the hea+. All the curtains and drapes were ruined. It was due solely to the combined efforts of my father, my neighbor Molly and myself, with only our garden hoses, that saved my house -and possibly the two other houses in the rear of the fire. When my father and I were interviewed by the investigative officer he did tell us that the public safety officers act as emergency health officers as well as fire and police officers, and that Rohnert Park does not have a team of firefighters ready, 24 hours a day to combat fires. He also told us that the city had hoped to purchase another engine, much needed to keep up with the city's expanded growth. The 2.5 million dollars originally allocated for the new fire engine was 00prioritized" for the new wine center, as the wine center promised revenkWfor the city. I asked the officer, as we were leaving, how his priorities would change - -if it was his house that was burning? 7 He had no answer for me. I hope that no one would have to face the fear of fire- so close to consuming what represented what we value most. Our lives, our homes the possessions we cherish -all were threatened that one horrible night. We are all well aware of the budget constraints that govern our city's spending. But, in my opinion, Rohnert Park has grown beyond the scope of a combined Public Safety Team. "Progress" has brought the problems of street gangs, drugs and big -city crime to what was a quiet community. The Police Department has enough to deal with, without acting as fire fighters. The city needs at least one staffed - and -ready fire house, prepared for 24 hour response. I ask each of you to consider the question that I asked the fire investigator: What if it were your house? r" Suggestions for Correction or Improvement: 1) Seperate fire services from other Public Safety responsibilities. 2) Maintain at least 1 team of trained fire fighting personnel at each fire station-on a 24 hour rotation. 3) If Public Safety personnel must supplement as fire fighters, (2nforce training requirements of all personnel on a regular basis. 4) Correct discrepancies and/or falsification of "log times". 5) Priorities for city growth and developement must include upgrading and additions to existing fire fighting equipment. C, Cl \� � \K,� )r \.� �\ ' 77(77i-c/Iqq' i 16, �b We, as concerned citizens of Rohnert Park, demand that fire protection services be improved. On April 14, 1994 a house fire at 839 Lunar Court was called in on 911. The first fire truck arrived nine minutes later!! The home was destroyed and considerable damage also occurred to the house next door. Fortunately, no children were in the home, in need of someone to rescue them! Officials say heavy traffic delayed the engines as they made their way across town. The real problem was that the two closest fire stations, each only minutes away, could not respond! At the new M section station there are no firefighters, just a truck. (Trucks are not much help without a crew!) Cotati firefighters were ready and able to respond, but past Rohnert Park and Cotati officials agreed their fire departments would not assist each other, unless they were specifically asked to do so!! (They finally came, without authorization.) Property can be replaced, but fires kill people and destroy lives as well - and it does it quickly. Every second really does count. We need ep ople in the M station, and immediate co- operation with Cotati. Anything less is irresponsible, unacceptable, and inexcusable. (Officials agree the cost to make both changes is minor.) m # I NAME ADDRESS 2 _-� - �° cz 3 4 t�Jll� � 4 l go c�.�•9.p e -7d' 7 10 �.Qa,� , � _ Lt s" L 1 1 f �`%�o ,G ,r�,c CA 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 MARIN COUNTY FIRE DEPT. .��k P.O. Box 518 (415)499.6717 6o / WOMACK,CA 94973 -7 Z l 3 -q893