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1989/09/26 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes September 26, 1989 4 :00 p.m. The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in adjourned regular session commencing at 4 :00 p.m. with Mayor Cochran presiding. Call to Order Vice Mayor Hollingsworth called the meeting to order in the absence of Mayor Cochran at approximately 4 :05 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance. Poll Call Present: Councilmen Eck, Hollingsworth, Hopkins, and Spiro Late: Mayor Cochran (Time of arrival is noted in these minutes) Absent: None Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter, Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust, Assistant to the City Manager Leivo, Recreation Director Pekkain, and Recreation Supervisor Miller. Proposed Swim Center, Dr. Ed Rudloff, Chairman, Swim Center Committee was recognized and Introduction reviewed the history of proposed swim center project. Mayor Cochran Arrives Mayor Cochran arrived at this point in the meeting, the time being approximately 7 :07 p.m. Swim Center- (Cont'd) Dr. Ed Rudloff, Chairman, Swim Center Committee continued and reviewed the formation of the advisory committee, listed membership and those attended. He stated that the charge is to develop a comprehensive aquatics complex on the Civic Center site. He said that the guiding principles were maximum utilization, year round operation, instruction at all levels, recreation for all people, and competition at all levels, that it would be a simple and unadorned pool, yet innovative and satisfy goals. He said that the issues were building footprint, diving tower, pool configuration, location and economic feasibility. Proposed Swim Eric M. Glass, Architect, Roland /Miller /Associates was recognized Center Design and reviewed the proposed swim center design. He said the proposed design was for a 75 meter pool 25 yards wide with three moveable bulkheads all indoors and a diving tower. He said that the proposed location for the swim center was at the High School site in response to parking, that all facilities would operate simultaneously, and that it would be convenient to the Civic Center. In reviewing the floor plans he said there would be one large pool with support spaces on the south including upstairs seating, offices and concessions, and on the north there would be storage weight training downstairs. Mr. Glass reviewed responses to ERA comments. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) September 26, 1989 4 :00 p.m. Economic Evaluation Steve W. Balgrosky, Economics Research Associates, was recognized and introduced staff that worked on the project for the Swim Center Economic Evaluation Study. He reviewed the economic evaluation study process stating that capital formation was assumed by bond which included bond payment in the feasibility study. He said the major conclusions were that the High School site was superior, that the building footprint is a unique design in the U.S. that achieves goals, that it's a good design with use of bulkheads being a more crucial component versus use of multiple pools. He said that for true national quality standards, a diving tower was needed with a capital cost difference of $800,000 and $100,000 difference in the operation deficit. Discussion followed regarding the annual operating deficit. Christine Martin, TLC Consultants, Inc., was recognized and in response to Council's questions said that currently the national governing bodies hold contracts with television networks, that agreements change every year, that top facilities are usually supported by universities, and that to run with a deficit does not depend upon events but depends upon day to day operations. A question from the audience asked if other City revenues, such as sales taxes, motel tax, etc., were considered to which Steve Balgrosky of Economics Research Associates responded that this was not included in the report but could create a beneficial fiscal impact. Recreation Supervisor Miller made comments regarding the Portland, Oregon study and the total event impact on the community. Discussion followed iil wlii%h Ms. Martin and Mr. Balgrosky responded to various questions regarding the budget and how large the deficit would be, national events handled by volunteer groups with the City charging rent and if City sponsors events it would receive regional meets. It was clarified that the training revenue does not depend upon having national meets but it helps with image, that the larger pool would enable increased revenues, and that, though not common, the bonds could be put to a vote of the people. Anna Lee Eggert, 585 Highland Avenue, Penngrove, California was recognized and said that since aquatic sports are growing, water sports have to be thought about and not just swimming, that Tempe made a profit of $10,000 at the last meet. She said that the intangibles had not been mentioned, such as the discipline that structured sports provides to children in helping them to turn around and have real potential. She requested that Council not cut back on the pool. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) September 26, 1989 4 :00 p.m. Milton Johnson, AIA, Pool Architect, was recognized and said that there are no quality indoor facilities west of Austin, Texas, that university pools do not break even because of restricted use and are not used for recreational purposes. He said that to build a recreational facility, it has to be marketed to the fullest which was not considered in the presentation, that the pool would be cited for 900 to 1,000 users per day, that the user load cited in the report was 1/2 of the actual users and that high scheduling demands 6 :00 a.m. to 10 :00 p.m. use. Mr. Johnson stated that users would be attracted from outside of Rohnert Park and that the facility could break even if charged adequately for users needs. Discussion followed in which Milton Johnson responded to questions from Council regarding support from private sources stating that foundations may be interested in the project. He said that we should hire an experienced fund raiser from a university, and that foundations may help with either capital construction or operational support. He said that to anticipate 800 to- 1,000 users, based on the charges, would make a major difference in the deficit. Dr. Ed Rudloff, Chairman /Swim Center Committee, said that it should be recognized that the consultant's revenues were low and expenditures were high. He took issue in the report on salary levels of employees being too high, number of employees, and personnel costs. He said that outside employees would be paid by clubs rather than the City, that there would be use of the facility by the High School, that program rentals and facility rentals were not complete, and that full consideration was not given to revenues from the concession stand that would not only sell food and drink but also shirts, hats, goggles, caps, etc. He stated that bed tax, sales tax and the roll over of dollar increases were not accounted for in the report, that the money generated in the community that would not necessarily come back to the City was not considered, that joint use contracts with other entities generate money and that there's possibilities for endowments. Further discussion followed regarding salaries and insurance benefits, the need to start looking for grants and the need to actively solicit supplemental private funds and the chance to put Rohnert Park on the map and be in national view. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) September 26, 1989 4 :00 p.m. A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Eck, to accept the recommendation of the committee to build the pool, accept the architect's recommended design, and hold off for 90 days to research sources of funding for the project in an attempt to minimize the burden on the citizens and the risk to the community, and approved by the following vote: AYES: (4) Eck, Hollingsworth, Hopkins, and Spiro NOES: (1) Cochran ABSENT: (0) None City Manager Pro- Tempore Netter stated that of the $300,000 set aside for this project, $118,000 had been spent to date. Swim Center Committee Chairman Rudloff stated that the committee recommended to move on to the preliminary drawings. Mayor Cochran stated that he opposed because he was in favor of doing the preliminary plans, that he was not against the facility. Discussion followed regarding the need to put together a group to investigate the feasibility of the project and grant /private funding, as well as to meet with City Manager on his thoughts on financing the project. Niki Hamilton, 27 Feeney Drive, was recognized and stated that a North Bay diving club of twenty -two divers from the region had been established and that diving towers would be used by all age group divers. Unscheduled Public Mayor Cochran asked if anyone in the audience wished to make an Appearances appearance at this time. No one responded. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned for a dinner break at approximately 6 :00 p.m. until 7 :00 p.m. on this same date. Citty ana /C er Mayor e. _ Rohnert Park City Council Minutes September 26, 1989 The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in regular session commencing at 7 :00 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with Mayor Cochran presiding. Call to Order Mayor Cochran called the regular session to order at approximately 7 :03 p.m. and advised that an adjourned regular session convened at 4 :00 p.m. today for a work session on the proposed swim center. Roll Call Present: (5) Council members Eck, Hollingsworth, Hopkins, Spiro and Cochran Absent: (0) None. Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter, City Attorney Flitner, Planning Director Skanchy, Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust, Assistant to the City Manager Leivo, and Recreation Director Pekkain. *foment of Silence A moment of silence was observed in memory of former Mayor and Councilman Wm. L. "Bill" Cavalli who passed away on September 7th. Approval of Minutes Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Council Member Spiro, the minutes of the meeting of September 12, 1989 were approved as submitted, except to change the second to the motion at the top of page 3 regarding the contribution to the Miss Rohnert Park Pageant Committee from Councilman Hopkins to Councilman Hollingsworth, by the following vote: AYES: (4) Hollingsworth, Hopkins, Spiro and Cochran NOES: (0) None ABSTAIN: (1) Eck Approval of Bills Upon Motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman Hollingsworth, and unanimously approved, the bills presented per the attached list in the amount of $1,391,578.69 were approved. Non - agendaed Items Mayor Cochran queried if any Council member had any non - agendaed items to add to the agenda. No one responded. Unscheduled Public Mayor Cochran stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown Appearances Act), anyone in the audience who wished to make a comment may do so at this time. Harvey Bell, 700 Lindsay Avenue, was recognized and shared objections to the approval of the Price Company project from himself and the Sierra Club as read from a typed statement (a copy of which is attached to the original set of these minutes). Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) September 26, 1989 Discussion insued between Mr. Bell and the Council members as to the General Plan update. Mayor Cochran stated that the Council would be discussing the General Plan later in the meeting as scheduled on the agenda. *********************************** * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ** CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Cochran queried if anyone had any questions regarding the matters on the consent calendar. Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting of the agenda. Resolution No. A RESOLUTION OF AWARD OF CONTRACT OVERLAYS 7 RECONSTRUCTION 89 -151 PROJECT 1989 -10 Resolution No. RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS FOR VEHICLE FOR 89 -152 CITY ENGINEER Resolution No. RESOLUTION CALLING FOR SEALED PROPOSALS TO RE- CARPET PUBLIC SAFETY 89 -153 NORTHERN STATION Resolution No. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK 89 -154 AUTHORIZING AND APPROVING A COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA AND THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK TO PROVIDE FOR THE WIDENING OF REDWOOD DRIVE (frontage road), NORTHWEST OF ROHNERT PARK EXPRESSWAY INTERCHANGE WITH STATE HIGHWAY ROUTE 101 IN ROHNERT PARK Ordinance No. 517 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING TITLE 17 OF THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE ZONING MAP CHANGE - CITY OF ROHNERT PARK PLANNING FILE NO. 1341 Upon motion by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, the Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda was approved. Planning and Zoning Planning Director Skanchy explained that Council had been provided File No. 1349 with copies of Planning Staff Report dated September 14, 1989 and shared contents therein relative to File No. 1349 - Consideration of zoning ordinance amendment to Section 17.16.150 CL (Limited Commercial) District to allow funeral parlors, crematories and columbariums. He stated that the Planning Commission went on record adopting Resolution P.C. No. 89 -12 recommending to the City Council that they hold a Public Hearing and amend Chapter 17 of Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) September 26, 1989 the Municipal Code to allow funeral parlors in this CL (Limited Commercial) District as a Conditional Use. He said that Public Hearing Notices were Published and that no written or verbal statements were received regarding this matter. Discussion followed in which it was confirmed that this is not creating a new zone but an amendment, reasons for sites not being specific, parking space being the main concern at the shopping center, and questions were raised regarding crematoriums and the description of columbariums. Public Hearing Mayor Cochran opened the public hearing at approximately 7 :15 p.m. and asked if there was anyone in the audience wishing to speak regarding this matter. Andy Anderson, 776 Santa Alicia Drive, was recognized and stated that he was the potential tenant for this particular location and explained that a columbarium is space set aside for cremated remains, that they had no plans to have a crematorium and no plans at all for a columbarium sharing that licensure by the State for crematoriums is much more difficult than for funeral parlors. He confirmed initial conversation with Planning Director Skanchy regarding funeral parlors being comparable to churches involving similar hours. There being no one further desiring, to speak, Mayor Cochran closed the public hearing at approximately 7 :20 p.m. Ordinance No. 518 ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING THE ROHNERT PARK MUNICIPAL CODE, TITLE 17.16.150 TO ADD PARAGRAPH V FUNERAL PARLORS PLANNING COMMISSION FILE NO. 1349 Upon motion by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, Ordinance No. 518 was introduced eliminating the words crematories and columbariums. File No. 1336 Planning Director Skanchy referred to plans on the wall regarding the Price Club and explained that Council had been provided with copies of Planning Staff Report dated September 149 1989 and shared contents therein relative to File No. 1336 - The Price Club - Review of Planning Commission's approval of Price Company application for use permit, revised site plan and architectural review for a retail commercial shopping center including automotive tire center, the on and off sale of liquor and other retail commercial uses to be located on a 27.5 acre parcel on the south side of the Rohnert Park Expressway opposite Rancho Verde Mobile Home Park and approximately 1,000 ft. west of the K -Mart store. Planning Director Skanchy said the Planning Commission approved this application subject to conditions in the Staff Report. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) September 26, 1989 Discussion followed regarding the fire code and necessity of emergency exits for the buildings, and clarifying questions regarding on and off sale liquor in that on sale means open bar and off sale means packaged. Comments followed to allow off -sale Liquor Permit only and that any on -sale permits be reviewed by the Planning Commission on an individual basis via the use permit process. The applicant, Kathy Nishihira, 4649 Marina Blvd., San Diego was acknowledged in the audience and stated that she was at the Council meeting to answer questions. There were no questions. Mayor Cochran stated that he wanted to make it very clear that the court at the hearing on the Sierra Club's application for temporary restraining order only enjoined additional development of the 78 acres located in the northwest Rohnert Park area. Work on those projects now under construction in this area has not been enjoined. Mayor Cochran stated that the court decision does not affect this project. City Attorney Flitner responded that the court order only applies to the 78 acres within the northwest Rohnert Park project area. City Attorney Flitner said that he received a call from Attorney Trent Orr, representing the Sierra Club. In the course of the telephone call Mr. Orr indicated that he would be seeking a temporary restraining order which would restrain the City from granting permits for development of the property until it had been determined that the City had a valid general plan and an adequate EIR had been prepared and certified for the development. Mr. Orr also indicated that Sierra Club would seek repayment of its attorney's fees. Councilman Eck stated that Council action would be to grant site plan and architectural review only. Further discussion followed regarding land - scaping and the on /off sale of liquor. Upon motion by Council Member Spiro, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, the application for File No. 1336 was approved with modifications and that Condition #2 read "the off -sale of liquor only "and to put in larger plant materials. Roberts Lake Road/ City Manager Pro- Tempore Netter explained that Council had been Spivock Creek Project provided with copies of letter dated September 20, 1989 from Mitigation Director of Public Works /City Engineer Brust regarding mitigation for Roberts Lake Road /Spivock Creek Project and stated that this letter of agreement has been reached with the Department of Fish and Game and approved by the Sonoma County Water Agency regarding mitigation measures due to the construction of Roberts Lake Road. The letter of agreement provides that the City would install landscaping on the south side of the Rohnert Park Expressway, on Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (S) September 26, 1989 the north side of the Laguna de Santa Rosa's upper bank from Hinebaugh Creek to 1,000 feet westerly_. The planting would be grouped along the upper portion of the bank to provide openings for the Sonoma County Water Agency's maintenance of the Laguna. In addition the City would install landscaping in the City -owned property between the north bank of the Laguna de Santa Rosa and the Rohnert Park Expressway from Hinebaugh Creek to 1,000 feet westerly, and the City would agree not to alter the landscape mitigation area any time in the future. These mitigation measures were requested by the Department of Fish and Game and are acceptable to Sonoma County Water Agency. He stated that ratification of the letter of agreement is recommended. Discussion followed in which City Engineer Brust responded to questions from Council stating that the cost is not known since the precise plan hasn't been prepared, that what's been done is to develop the location and that a specific plan will be provided later. In response to the use of recycled waste water, City Engineer Brust said there may not be a need for any other watering care, that if it starts to get overgrown can be trimmed back to handle as planned, and that plants of natural habitat will be used grouped together in such a way along the creek bank to leave large spaces open to enable large equipment to get in and out. Council concurred approval of staff report. A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to ratify letter /agreement of California Department of Fish and Game and Sonoma County Water Agency. So.Co.Hazardous City Manager Pro- Tempore Netter explained that Council had been Waste Mngment Plan provided with a copy of the August 31st, 1989 transmittal letter from County Public Health Department transmitting a copy of the Sonoma County Hazardous Waste Management Plan, Volumes I, II and III. According to the Health Department's letter the City has ninety (90) days from receipt of the plan to approve or reject it. Failure to act during that period indicates approval of the plan. The plan must eventually receive the approval of 1) a majority of the cities containing a majority of the population of the incorporated area in the county, and 2) the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors. After the plan is approved by the Cities, County and Department of Health Services, the cities have 180 days to take one of the several actions including adopting our own plan, incorporating applicable portions of the approved County plan by reference into the City's General Plan, or enacting an ordinance requiring all city land use proposals to be consistent with siting criteria in the approved plan. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (6) September 26, 1989 Jack Vrmeer, Tanner Project Director of Sonoma County Public Health, 2435 Professional Drive, and George Goobanoff, HMME Chairperson, were recognized and stated they were available to address any Council concerns regarding the Hazardous Waste Management Plan. No concerns were expressed. Resolution No. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK APPROVING THE FINAL 89 -155 "SONOMA COUNTY HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN" Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman Hollingsworth, and unanimously approved, reading of the resolution was waived and Resolution No. 89 -155 was adopted. Marin /Sonoma Mosquito City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that Council had been Abatement District provided with copies of memo dated September 6, 1989 to Appointment Commissions regarding the Marin /Sonoma Mosquito Abatement District, appointment to the Board of Trustees to fill position vacated by Former Councilman Jack Lepinski. Per City Council's request all City boards and commissions have been approached asking for volunteers for said appointment and the only commissioners interested were Millie Hamill of the Rohnert Park Cultural Arts Corporation and Michael Mullins of the Planning Commission. A Council appointment to the Board of Directors is recommended. The meetings are held the second Wednesday at 8:00 p.m. in Petaluma and the Mosquito Abatement District provides a meeting allowance of $30 to $50 per month to each member on the board. Upon motion by Council Member Spiro, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to appoint Millie Hamill to the Board of Trustees for the Marin /Sonoma Mosquito Abatement District was approved. Codding Center Assistant to the City Manager Leivo referred to Codding Center Remodeling Plans proposed floor plan displayed on the wall and explained that this plan was reviewed with the task force of various individuals involved and with the Senior Advisory Commission who felt there was a need to go back to the architect and review the nutritional plans for the food center. He said that when the task force comes up with a design that better meets the needs it will be presented to the Council for review and consideration. He said that the concept of the Youth Center was a trial balloon to see how the seniors would react and that he thought it was fair to say the members were at least willing to give it a try and see if it will work to make the center available for all ages. Discussion followed regarding existing tenants clarifying that the leases will be reviewed on an annual basis so space would be available to the center if needed. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) September 26, 1989 Mayor Cochran suggested that the Codding Center /Youth Services Program be moved up on the agenda from Council Matters and requested Council Member Spiro to proceed at this time. Council Member Spiro explained that Council had been provided with copies of "Community Outreach Services" material and introduced Nikki Arana and Kathleen VanderVennet to review the contents therein stating that they had helped enormously in the efforts toward the Community Outreach Services for Youth. Kathleen VanderVennet, 210 Fig Court, and Nikki Arana, Padre Parkway, were recognized and shared the contents of the "Community Outreach Services" material via charts prepared for presentation explaining how the Codding Center could be used as the home of the Youth Services Program in correlation with the seniors pointing out support groups of all ages that could be utilized to provide services to the community. Council Member Spiro explained the advantages of having one point of contact for information regarding the many support groups available to help in the area, that there is a tentative Board of Directors comprised of individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds and related interests to the proposed Community Outreach Services program and introduced several in the audience as follows: Herb and Annette Lyons for the senior citizens, Jan Heffron from the School District, Mary Caveza, Manager of Bay View Federal and Dr.David Benson, President of Sonoma State University. She said these people have been available to help disseminate information to all areas of concern and that the hope is to have a net working group of help that will not be limited to- youth. Council Member Spiro said that the projected budget was included in the material provided to Council for tonight's presentation. Discussion followed extending commendation regarding the excellent presentation, the specialists that have been integrated into the proposed program, and the difference between the proposed .Bureau and the Board of Directors. Council concurred that the chain of command should be consistent with and have the same function as other commissions in the City reporting directly to the City Council versus the proposed chain of command as shown in tonight's presentation which goes directly through the City Manager. Upon motion by Council Member Spiro, seconded by Councilman Hollingsworth, and unanimously approved, the Community Outreach Services for Youth Plan was approved including the allocation of funds in the amount of $100,000 and changing the chain of command in order to be consistent with other City commissions. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (8) September 26, 1989 Recess Mayor Cochran declared a recess at approximately 8 :25 p.m. Reconvene Mayor Cochran reconvened the Council meeting at approximately 8 :40 p.m. with all Council members present. "Are You O.K. "Program City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that Council had been for Senior Citizens provided with Staff Report dated September 20, 1989 regarding the "Are You O.K." - Computerized System to check on Seniors and shared the contents therein stating that the program was developed by Northland Innovations Corp. out of St. Paul, Minnesota. It is currently in operation in many locations in the midwest as well as the City of Sonoma and has been recently purchased by the City of Cotati. In summary what the program provides is a computerized calling system to seniors who may be in ill health or do not have family or relatives that can periodically call on them. The system provides for an alert signal notifying the City or other agency controlling the system that the party was unable to answer the call and may be in need of assistance. The base cost is $7,000 plus shipping. Other costs to this system would include a one -time telephone hookup charge of approximately $150 and a monthly telephone charge of $18 for a single line service plus 4 cents per call. A single telephone line would handle up to 400 subscribers. The system would call approximately 100 subscribers per hour. City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter concluded that the staff report outlines a program implementation schedule and recommended action. In addition copies were provided to Council of an alternate proposal from CJL Communications from Jack Olmsted, a local resident. Discussion followed regarding the best location site for the system, the simplicity of installation via a single phone line to enable setting up at Public Safety Northern Station until Codding Center is completed, and monitoring by staff versus volunteers. A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to approve the "Are You O.K." Computer System at the North Fire Station until such time as the Codding Center is completed and able to house the system. General Plan Review City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that staff has been working on the General Plan Review and has a good portion of the first preliminary rough draft completed. This includes the land use element, traffic circulation element, the housing element, conservation element, open space element, noise element, and safety. For the traffic circulation element Director of Public Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) September 26, 1989 Works /City Engineer Ron Brust has engaged the consultation of Goodrich Traffic Group and Traffic Data Services which will be working on a circulation model and traffic counts. In addition, it is recommended that consultants be hired to complete the noise element. It is estimated that a consultant would cost approximately $10,000. He said that copies had been provided to Council of an agreement which has been prepared and authorizes the City Manager to procure a consultant and execute said agreement. It is recommended that Council approve the form agreement and authorize the City Manager to search for and hire a consultant. A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to approve the form of the agreement and authorize the City Manager to procure a consultant to complete the noise element of the General Plan. Discussion followed regarding Rohnert Park Expressway existing and under construction areas, timing of citizen's input regarding the bike path element and the need for a series of published public hearing notices as well as the possibility of additional advertisements, the need for preliminary process of staff's draft document in order to work with something specific, and that interested citizens should feel free to submit ideas to the City Manager during the preliminary process. So.Co.Special Olympics- City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that Council had been "Light Up" Don Clausen provided with copies of letter dated September 12, 1989 from Bryan Overcrossing Albee, Volunteer, Sonoma County Special Olympics regarding a request to "light up" the Don Clausen Overcrossing (Expressway bridge) over Highway 101 during the holiday season. Brad Morrison, Area Director of Sonoma County Special Olympics of Santa Rosa, was recognized and explained the fund raising proposal for the Sonoma County Special Olympics by lighting up the Rohnert Park Expressway bridge over U.S. 101 on both sides at one foot intervals. Upon completion volunteers would commence the selling of light bulbs to the community at $10 per light bulb. It is estimated after expenses that approximately $5,000 would be netted for the Special Olympics. Mr. Albee's previously mentioned letter requests Council's endorsement of.this fund raising event. Discussion followed in which it was confirmed that Caltrans had been contacted and said there is no problem with this proposal as long as white bulbs are used and the bulbs do not blink off and on. A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to grant the request of Sonoma County Special Olympics to "light up" the Don Clausen Overcrossing and to purchase the first fifty (50) light bulbs. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (10) September 26, 1989 Housing Now Campaign City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that Council had been provided with copies of letter dated September 8, 1989 from the City of Sebastopol regarding a "housing Now Campaign" requesting Council's support and endorsement of the Housing Now Program and the Right to Housing Campaign. The Housing Now Campaign represents a growing movement addressing the needs for affordable housing. The City of Sebastopol is specifically inviting Rohnert Park to support the restoration of a national commitment to affordable housing by the revitalization of federal funding for housing. In addition there will be several rallies on October 6th and 7th which is a planned candlelight vigil and overnight encampment with a rally at the Federal Building in Santa Rosa to show. support for the nationwide Housing Now efforts to end homelessness. He stated further that the City of Sebastopol is asking for a City Council's designee to participate in a forum as well as the adoption of a resolution supporting the Housing Now and the California Right to Housing Campaign efforts. Discussion followed in which Councilman Eck stated that he would like to be the designee for the Housing Now Campaign. Mayor Cochran stated that it was his intention to attend the October rallies. Resolution No. A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK, CALIFORNIA TO SUPPORT 89 -156 HOUSING NOW AND THE CALIFORNIA RIGHT TO HOUSING CAMPAIGN - Upon motion by Mayor Cochran, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, Resolution No. 89 -156 was adopted. Gary Clark Film on City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter explained that Council had been Residential Fire provided copies of letter dated September 13, 1989 from Gary B. Safety Clark, 303 Burton Avenue, Rohnert Park, California requesting Council's attention to view a twenty minute film and presentation on residential fire safety. Discussion followed. A motion was made by Council Member Spiro, seconded by Mayor Cochran, and unanimously approved, for City Manager to review the residential fire safety film and provide a summary for Council. 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. Councilman Hopkins referred to item No. 17 on the communications list from the League of California Cities - Western Union Mailgram requesting action to veto SB 1127 -A Bill to Establish Compulsory Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) September 26, 1989 and Binding Arbitration for Firefighter Collective Bargaining and stated that he would like Council to go on record opposing Senate Bill 1127. Discussion followed. A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman Eck, and unanimously approved, to oppose Senate Bill 1127, a Bill to Establish Compulsory and Binding Arbitration for Firefighter Collective Bargaining. Councilman Eck referred to item No. 21 on the communications list from the City of Napa regarding compliments to Council on efforts to enact life saving sprinkler ordinance and asked if Council should take another look at the matter. Council concurred that it had previously agreed to review the residential fire sprinkler matter again next year. City Manager's Report City Manager Pro - Tempore Netter referred to recent Council action regarding the new refuse disposal system and explained that the new garbage cans for the automated service will be distributed November 1st and the recycling bins will be distributed the next week. Mayor Cochran asked staff to check into the new 60 gallon size containers for use by the elderly and those who can't handle the 90 gallon containters. City Attorney's Report: City Attorney Flitner said that a representative of Channel 22 KRCB- TV,Channel 22 requested a two week extension regarding their request for land as they are in the process of preparing convincing reasons and feel they have cogent arguments to present regarding this matter. Harris' Lawsuit City Attorney Flitner shared that City Manager Callinan's deposition for the Harris' lawsuit was taken on September 8, 1989 and a settlement conference was heard on Monday, September 18th whereby no settlement was reached. The court hearing is set for October 2, 1989. City Attorney said this was a dispute of a condo - conversion whereby the City was to receive $10,000 per unit up to $100,000 and that it was agreed that said amount was a gift which the courts will have to decide if that is a binding obligation. Sierra Club Lawsuit City Attorney Flitner said that the Sierra Club lawsuit is in briefing stage now, that at the last meeting the judge's opinion was issued, that he missed the meeting but gave City Manager Callinan a copy of the opinion, that the only things related in Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (12) September 26, 1989 the matter are on the 78 acres, and is set for trial on November 1st. He said that with the matters on schedule, the case should be heard quickly and that the rest of it is probably matter for an executive session. Matters from Council; Councilman Hollingsworth explained the tradition of designating M/M Santa Claus Joan and George Williams as Rohnert Park's official Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus and recommended this tradition be continued for the upcoming holidays. A motion was made by Councilman Hollingsworth, seconded by Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to designate Joan and George Williams as Rohnert Park's official Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. Council extended words of commendation to Joan and George Williams as their presence was acknowledged in the audience. Joan and George Williams expressed appreciation for Council's approval for them to continue in this voluntary position. Founder's Day Councilman Eck stated that in appreciation of all the efforts and Committee hard work that went into the Founder's Days activities, he felt there was a need for some kind of recognition to the Founder's Days Committee, especially for the six to eight people who worked exceptionally hard for the success of this event. Council concurred. R.P. "Friendly" Mayor Cochran referred to the Rohnert Park "Friendly City" sign City Sign and said he thought consideration should be given to the location of it, that maybe it would be better to move it farther north across from City Hall. Discussion followed regarding possible problems with the sign ordinance. City Attorney Flitner said that it might lose the non- conforming status to relocate the sign. Council concurred that City Attorney should review the matter and advise Council of findings at a later date. R.P.Video Tape Mayor Cochran inquired about the ownership of the Rohnert Park video tape that was paid for by several people stating that he had received a phone call from a woman who is being denied access by Channel 50. He directed the question to the City Attorney to find out if the Chamber of Commerce, five developers, City of Rohnert Park or Channel 50 owned the video tape. Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) September 26, 1989 Unscheduled Public Mayor Cochran asked if anyone in the audience wished to make an Appearances appearance at this time. Gordon Simms, 1113 Cielo Circle, was recognized and stated that he objected to contents of the particular article in the recently published Rohnert Park Newsletter which referred to a quote by Hugh Codding stating that this was a public revenue issue, that a public tax paid publication should not be used in this way, and that he thought Mr. Codding could promote himself. Mayor Cochran responded that the newsletter is simply an effort to try and put out to the citizens of Rohnert Park what's going on in the City and that he didn't think the comment would glamorize Mr. Codding to the point of benefit. Adjournment There being no further business, Mayor Cochran adjourned the meeting at approximately 9;39 p.m. Depu y C�O Clerk Mayor September ;X, 1989 The Sierra Club and Harvey Bell object to the approval of the Price Company project on a number of grounds. First of all, no site specific environmental analysis has been done for this regional shopping center. The Cofego EIR prepared in the 1970s was a program EIR which did not specifically analyze the project at hand. Furthermore, this EIR was prepared more than a decade ago, so the information in it is outdated. We contend that the project needs further environmental analysis to comply with CEQA. There is a potential for significant impacts from traffic congestion, urban noise, air pollution, loss of open space, strain on limited water supplies, and sewage disposal capacity. Additionally, the City does not have a valid general plan with which to certify this project. The Superior Court has indicated that it is very likely to rule that the Rohnert Park General Plan is invalid and has placed an injunction on approval of projects in the Northwest Rohnert Park area. If this project is approved, the Sierra Club will pursue another injunction and will most certainly prevail. The City will be responsible for reimbursing our attorney's fees for this litigation. In approving this project, the City will be recklessly squandering taxpayer's money by refusing to comply with State environmental laws. Because of the inadequacy of the Rohnert Park General Plan, we request that the City table all significant development projects until the outcome of the November 1st court hearing. The Sierra Club does not wish to continue filing lawsuits against the City. We would much rather see you start complying with State environmental laws by doing proper environmental analysis on projects, and by properly updating the General Plan. The City's goal of updating its general plan in a few months is foolhardy. A project of this magnitude will take much longer than a few months to complete, and will require more expertise than is currently available on staff. The County just spent four years updating its general plan. Two of these years were for public hearings. The City of Santa Rosa is currently updating its general plan, and has scheduled two years for the process. I encourage any of you ct `� who disagree with me to read a copy of the State General Plan Guidelines which set forth the required contents of a general plan. It would be a shame for the City to attempt a hasty, inadequate update of its general plan, only to be rebuffed once again by the Court for failure to comply with State law. Submitted by: Harvey Bell 700 Lindsay Ave. Rohnert Park, Ca. 94928 Sierra Club c/o Liz Eddins 829 A St. Helena Ave. Santa Rosa, Ca. 95404