1998/03/10 City Council MinutesROHNERT PARK CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
March 10, 1998
The Council of the City of Rohnert Park met this date in regular session commencing
at 6:00 p.m. in the City Offices, 6750 Commerce Boulevard, Rohnert Park, with
Mayor Linda Spiro presiding.
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Linda Spiro called the regular session to order at approximately
6:45 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL: Present: (3) Councilmembers Flores, Reilly and Mayor Spiro
Absent: (2) Councilmember Mackenzie (out of town on government business)
Vice -Mayor Vidak- Martinez (out of town attending the National
League of Cities Conference)
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager Netter, City Attorney Flitner,
Assistant City Manager Leivo, Public Works Manager Stephens, Public Safety Fire
Services Commander Cassel and City Engineer Gaffney.
MnMF,NT nF SILENCE IN MEMnRY nF
Lavonne Bain, Former Cultural Arts Commissioner
& Former Officer of the Rohnert Park Association for the Arts
1. CLOSED SESSION. Mayor Spiro reported on the closed session which commenced this
evening at 6:00 to discuss matters listed on the agenda attachment, with no action
taken at this time.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Corrections to the February 10, 1998 meeting minutes were
made by Council and signified on original set of minutes. Approval of February 24,
1998 minutes was deferred to the March 24, 1998 meeting.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly, the
minutes of February 10, 1998 were unanimously approved as amended.
3. APPROVAL OF BILLS:
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly, City bills
presented per the attached list in the amount of $154,672.86, were unanimously
approved.
4. ADDING INFORMATIONAL NON- AGENDAED MATTERS:
Mayor Spiro asked Councilmembers or staff if there were any non - agendaed
informational items to add to the agenda. No items were added.
5. MAYOR'S PRESENTATION:
Mayor Spiro presented a proclamation to Peggy Buzanski honoring her for earning the
GATE Teacher of the Year Award.
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6. YOUTH CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES from 1997 -98 Youth of the Year Program
Mayor Spiro recognized Youth Representatives Elizabeth Leonhardt and Dena Ito,
Seniors, who provided the youth report at this time, which included the announcement
that the "Bop 'Til You Drop" faculty concert was a big success.
7. UNSCHEDULED PUBLICAPPEARANCES.
Mayor Spiro stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown Act), citizens
wishing to make a comment may do so at this time.
Linda Branscomb 21 Anne Street requested this meeting's vote on deciding who will
write the Urban Growth Boundary ballot language should not take place until all
Councilmember . are present - -the electorate would be shortchanged if this occurs; a
subcommittee should be appointed.
2. Joi Losee, 943 Holly � treet, stated the Urban Growth Boundary ballot issue should be
withdrawn; this issue should have been returned to LAFCO. She asked the total
amount to be spent on the election, the amount paid to the Los Angeles attorney who
wrote the ballot and the total estimated cost of the ballot measure. She added if the
figure is $21,000, this is a waste of money.
Jean Rice 7177 Adrian Drive, stated Adrian has become a main thoroughfare; there
have been a number of accidents at the corner of Alison; there are no street signs
indicating a school. She requested a 4 -way stop sign be installed at this location and a
school crosswalk in the area. She gave to the City Manager a petition signed by a
number of parents. The City Manager responded the City Engineer will review this
situation and report back with a recommendation.
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8. CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Spiro asked if there were any questions regarding the matters on the Consent
Calendar which were explained in the City Manager's Council Meeting Memo.
Council agreed to remove Resolution 98 -53 from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on posting of meeting's agenda
Resolution Nos:
98 -47 Commending Bob Matteri on the Occasion of His Retirement from Empire
Waste Management
98 -48 In Recognition of Susan Zachensky- Walthall, Coach of SSU's Women's
Basketball Team
98 -49 Acknowledging and Honoring Mark Rigby for His First Year as Head Coach of
SSU's Women's Basketball Team
98 -50 Award of Contract, Jasmine Circle, Speed Humps, Project No. 1998 -1
RcneEt'itciit
Resolution Nos:
98 -51 Calling for Sealed Proposals for Inspection, Maintenance and Repair of Heating
and Air Conditioning Equipment
98 -52 Calling for Sealed Proposals for Cost Per Copy Lease of Copiers for Various City
Facilities
98 -54 Approving a Bail Schedule for Offenses in Violation of the Rohnert Park
Municipal Code
98 -55 Authorizing Salary Adjustments for Certain Part Time Recreation Positions
98-56 Rejecting the Claim of Patricia Hallock (re. alleged injuries due to slipping in
mud resulting from flooding)
Councilmember Reilly requested Resolution 98 -53 be removed from the Consent
Calendar. He asked if presentations would be made for Resolutions 98 -47, 98-48 and
98 -49. Mayor Spiro confirmed this would happen.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by.. Councilmember. Reilly, the
Consent Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda, with the exception of
Resolution 98 -53, was unanimously approved.
Resolution No.
98 -53 Establishing the Structure and Conditions of the Volunteer Auxiliary Firefighter
Program
Councilmember Reilly ask why the firefighter trainees were required to participate in a
regular physical fitness program and not the other two positions. Public Safety
Commander Cassel responded that paragraph should have been omitted. He
confirmed 75% is the minimum acceptable level of participation at training sessions;
the firefighter program has improved and the existing plan will remain. The City
Manager noted there is flexibility for changes in the program.
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by Councilmember Flores,
Resolution No. 98 -53 was unanimously approved.
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9. OTHER RESOLUTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION:
Resolution No:
98 -57 Upholding the Planning Commission Action to Conditionally Approve File No.
1770: Conditional Use Permit, Architectural and Site Plan, and Certification of
the Negative Declaration for a 15,000 Square Foot Tire Retail and Installation
Facility Proposed to be Located at 5353 and 5395 Redwood and Denving the
Appeal of Mr. Michael Oxman - Les Schwab Tire Dealer
Upon motion by Councilmember Reilly, seconded by Councilmember Flores,
Resolution No. 98 -57 was unanimously approved.
Resolution No.
98 -58 Award of Contract for New Carpeting at the Dorothy Rohnert Spreckels
Performing Arts Center
Councilmember Reilly asked why the bids were different on room measurements. The
City Manager responded the total square footages should be very close on the bids.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly,
Resolution No. 98 -58 was unanimously approved.
Mayor Spiro requested the contract reflect if there is a measurement error, that this be
considered in the final price.
10. CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION /SCULPTURE PROPOSAL FOR PROJECT
This item. was deferred to. the March 24,:.1.998-meeting..-.—...
11. ROHNERT PARK WATER DETENTION & SOIL CONSERVATION PROGRAM
Public Works Manager Stephens discussed three goals: (1) establish a rainfall
detention program to reduce the mean height of floods; (2) reduce siltation in flood
control channels; (3) increase the value of public moneys by encouraging agencies to
work together on various projects.
It was Council consensus the Public Works Manager should go forward with these
goals.
12. JUNE 2, 1998 BALLOT MEASURE MATTERS -URBAN GROWTH BOUNDARY
*Submittal of Arguments and Rebuttal Arguments
1) Arguments (For and Against)
2) Rebuttal Arguments (For and /or Against)
Councilmember Flores volunteered to write arguments supporting the position, with
Councilmembers Mackenzie and Reilly to write the opposing position.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly and was
unanimously approved, Councilmember Flores will write in support of the arguments
and rebuttals, and Councilmembers Mackenzie and Reilly will write the opposing
position on arguments and rebuttals.
3) Impartial Analysis
City Attorney Flitner noted the law provides this analysis be written by the City Attorney,
and no motion was required for this action.
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13. JOINT MEETING WITH SONOMA STATE UNIVERSITY CABINET
1) Concert Hall Proposal
Designation of PAC Committee to work with SSU
City Manager Netter discussed the joint meeting. He noted draft minutes are available, for
formal approval at the next Council meeting.
... ..Y.. e stated the PePfeFfi3iA— Eeirxitt , eemprised ef herself and
Cetine-ilmember Maekepzie, she „'a . k with SSU-.
*C O R R E C T 10 N Above from 3/24/98 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Spiro (deletion lined out)
Councilmember Reilly noted the City should continue a partnership with SSU; and
staff should advise the committee of current activities since this information is more
readily available to staff.
Mayor Spiro stated input will probably not be allowed to the extent she would like.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly and
unanimously approved, the Performing Arts Committee will work with the SSU
cabinet.
2) Student Apartments III Building Construction - Initial Study/Negative
Declaration
*Council comments
Councilmember Flores stated SSU has a lack of student housing; with increased
housing, the school will continue to draw top students; this housing will be
constructed on the existing campus.
Councilmember Reilly expressed concern that the City needs to look at the roadway
and traffic issues. Also, this construction will affect those living in the R section.
Mayor Spiro added she is concerned about the traffic impact of this additional housing,
and parking must be taken into account.
3) Other Council comments
Councilmember Reilly stated the city should establish closer ties with SSU. SSU has
suggested there could be a partnership between the city and school on the football
stadium remodel, whereby the city could participate in the use of the facility. Staff
should work out the details regarding a contract and the definition of "participation.”
SSU also seeks partnership in development of a 50 -meter pool. He asked what costs
are involved in the city's plans to build a swim complex and how this would work with
the school district and SSU. Staff should look at whether a partnership is feasible.
Mayor Spiro asked that SSU be reminded the State of California did not pay for the
stadium - -it was built by donations. She added two things did not occur - -the visiting
team has little bleacher space and no landscaping was completed. The city could
participate in landscaping, at a lower cost.
Councilmember Reilly suggested the Recreation Department pursue this and other
possibilities such as a shared soccer field.
Mayor Spiro noted the city pool costs were at $14 million when last looked at.
Councilmember Reilly suggested $1 to $2 million is more in the ballpark, for a
50 -meter pool.
Mayor Spiro read Councilmember Mackenzie's comments from the joint meeting:
"SSU has no interests south of the campus. "'
"SSU will be neutral in the upcoming election."
"SSU welcomes Rohnert Park involvement in various committees - Campus
Master Plan, Tanglewood West."
Councilmember Flores stated if the City of Cotati wants to work with SSU, they
should do it on their own.
Councilmember Reilly added he felt SSU, Rohnert Park and Cotati should work on
these projects together.
14. ANIMAL CONTROL SHELTER SERVICES PROVIDED TO CITY OF COTATI
Mayor Spiro noted there is no cap for the number of animals to be accepted by the
shelter each month, for the $500 per month.
City Manager Netter responded the contract provides a 30 -day review and
cancellation, and if there are an excessive number of animals, the contract would be
renegotiated.
Mayor Spiro asked if the FAIRE organization has commented on this contract - -they
might be offering services not being paid for.
City Manager Netter responded he believed the Department of Public Safety staff had
discussed this with the FAIRE group, but was not absolutely sure. Regarding
services, since this agreement is for shelter services only, Cotati will pay for animals
requiring attention. He will ask for input from the FAIRE organization.
This item was continued to the March 24, 1998 meeting.
15 COUNCIL COMMITTEE AND /OR OTHER REPORTS
1) Mayors' & Councilmembers' Discussion Group Meeting, 2/26/98
Councilmember Reilly reported a proposal was presented for the coordination of
economic development to share ideas and strategies in promoting the region and
county as a whole, versus individual cities seeking monies. Redefining what each city
sees as its niche would be a first step. He also reported the group recommended the
use of a facilitator at its next meeting.
City Manager Netter commented there is a fear if economic strategies are discussed
openly at these meetings, ideas may be stolen, and no one wins. On the other issue,
Cotati's Sandy Ellis is talking with the Mayors' and Councilmembers' Association
Treasurer to determine if funds are available to provide a facilitator. There may a
facilitator present at the March 26 meeting.
Mayor Spiro noted ABAG provided grant funds for regional issues. She asked the
City Manager to note all Mayors and Councilmembers should be working on this
issue, not just a portion, and added this Council has not decided funding.
City Manager Netter commented that if the group cannot work together, it should be
disbanded. The reason for the facilitator is to see if the Mayors' and Councilmembers'
Association is willing to validate the Discussion Group.
Councilmember Reilly stated he felt a subcommittee is not unreal and can work, as
there is insufficient time at the Mayors and Councilmembers Association meeting to
discuss complicated issues.
2) Other
*C O R R E C T 10 N Below from 3{24/98 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Spiro (deletion lined out/addition underlined)
Mayor Spiro reported on her attendance at the Livable Cities Conference. She noted
that of all the issues considered when formatting the report, ethnic diversity *was not
faeter should have been more of a factor. Attending the Mayors Conference in
Washington, D.C., she participated in a President's discussion concerning ethnic
diversity. An organization named HELP took counseling and services into affordable
housing projects, similar to the effort by Innovative Housing in Rohnert Park. She
would like this issue looked at for Rohnert Park.
16. TRANSPORTATION MATTERS.
1) Bicycle Committee - Bicycle Friendly Community Application
Resolution No.
98 -59 Approving Application for Bicycle Friendly Community Status
City Manager Netter confirmed this resolution can be approved because the item is
agendized.
Councilmember Flores stated this designation is a credit to the community.
Upon motion by Councilmember Flores, seconded by Councilmember Reilly and
unanimously approved, the Council adopted Resolution 98 -59, submitting an
application to the League of American Bicyclists to certify Rohnert Park as a
Bicycle Friendly Community.
€t1r`iii - - -- M 13, 1398::
2) Rohnert Park Expressway Improvements - Status Report
City Engineer Gaffney discussed his staff report, and in response to questions, noted
the City's project of widening the bridge, and the street from Commerce to Redwood
Drive will take one and one -half years, beginning the end of 1998. Completion of
landscaping will be between two and one -half to three years. Landscaping mitigation
will be in the Park & Ride lot, and replacement of the temporary trees near Jack in the
Box on the north side of the Rohnert Park Expressway.
3) Other: None.
17 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.
Mayor Spiro stated he_would like to-appoint -Mr. Weinman-to, the Senior. Advisory;_
Commission.
No action was taken.
18. MATTERS FROA11FOR COUNCIL:
1) Associated Students of Sonoma State request for meeting with City Council,
suggesting a Monday from 12:00 -2:00 p.m, during one of their board
meetings
Councilmember Flores recommended scheduling this meeting - -he and Mayor Spiro
can attend. Councilmember Reilly suggested requesting a night meeting. No action
was taken on this item, awaiting Councilmember Mackenzie's attendance at the next
Council meeting. A letter was suggested to be written asking if the Student Body
would consider an evening meeting.
2) City donation to Youth Summit (Vidak- Martinez/Flores)
Councilmember Flores recommended contributing $1,000 to support the Youth
Summit.
Mayor Spiro suggested other agencies should also support this effort; e.g., the school
district, SSU.
City Manager Netter said this item was listed for information, and if the Council wants
to consider funding, then it should be agendized as an action item on March 24, 1998.
City Manager Netter said he would find out about other funding and sponsorships and
report back to Council. He noted SSU is providing the site for the Youth Summit.
3) Selection of Ad Hoc Committee for KRCB- Channel 22 lease amendments
Mayor Spiro stated Councilmembers Flores and Reilly should be on this committee.
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? i ritatY s � ..... l a r:
4) Mayors' & Councilmembers' Assn., Genl Membership Mtg., Thrs., 3/12/98,
Johnny Garlics of Windsor, 8988 Brooks Road South, Windsor
City Manager Netter noted this is a very important meeting regarding domestic water
issues and the supply from the Russian River.
*City Selection Committee, 6:30 p.m. - Representative for Airport Land
Use Commission - 4 year term
Mayor Spiro asked if there were any nominees; there being none, she was given
discretion to nominate.
5) League of Calif. Cities, North Bay Division Quarterly General Membership
Meeting, Thrs., 4/2/98, Napa Valley Marriott, 3425 Solano Ave., Napa
City Manager Netter reported Mayor Spiro is President of the North Bay Division and
the program speaker will be a political consultant who handles tax initiatives, relating
to Sonoma, Marin and Napa Counties.
RECESS: Mayor Spiro declared a recess at 8:20 p.m.
RECONVENE: Mayor Spiro 'reconvened the meeting at 8:25 p.m., with all Councilmembers
present, with the exception of Councilmembers Mackenzie and Vidak- Martinez,.
6) Miscellaneous
The ethnic diversity group will be combined. The Vice Mayor is working with
Building Bridges and she will focus on youth, with the Mayor focusing on adults.
19. CITYMANAGER'S REPORT:
1) Founders' Day Parade- Update/Preferred date: Sat., Sept. 26, 1998
City Manager Netter reported September 26,1998 works better for everyone. The
Council agreed to this date.
2) Garbage Rate Comparisons
City Manager Netter reported the comparisons are in the staff packet. Councilmember
Flores asked if there has been any. discussion with Empire regarding Windsor's latest
contract and Rohnert Park's current contract. The City Manager responded he has
asked `w indsor's assistant city manager the level of service; Windsor is reviewing this
for six to eight months. Mayor Spiro asked why residential rates are higher in Rohnert
Park than Santa Rosa. City Manager Netter responded the commercial rates are
lower, which subsidizes residential. Councilmember Flores added Empire provides
good services and if this continues, the City should stay with them. Councilmember
Reilly noted the Council has indicated competitive bidding would take place when the
contract ends.
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3) Update on Assessment Report & Organizational Opportunities,
Dynamic Leadership Assoc. - Recreation Department
City Manager Netter indicated he would like to ask Carl Clark, author of the
assessment report, to make a formal presentation to the Council at a future meeting.
Councilmember Flores suggested the newly -hired Director of Recreation be at that
meeting.
4) Council Goals /Assessment Workshop, March 31, 1998, 6:00 -9 :00 p.m.
City Manager Netter reported there will be a facilitator for this workshop, which may
be held at the Wine Center.
20. CITYATTORNEY'S REPORT,
City Attorney Flitner reported there were no matters to be discussed.
21. UNSCHEDULED PUBLIC APPEARANCES.
Mayor Spiro asked if there were any additional unscheduled public appearances at this
time. No one responded.
RECESS. Mayor Spiro closed the meeting at approximately 8:40 p.m. to proceed with the
Community Development Commission meeting scheduled on the agenda.
RECONVENE.
The City Council meeting was reconvened by Mayor Spiro at approximately 8:44 p.m.
to advise that the Closed Session was continued to 5:00 p.m., March 17, 1998,
pending confirmation b Councilmembers Mackenzie and Vidak- Martinez.
*Prior to adjournment of he meeting, Mayor Linda Spiro noted, for the record, that
the Council had unanimous votes on everything requiring action for this meeting.
*CORRECTION Above from 3/24/98 City Council meeting: Per Mayor Spiro (addition underlined)
22. ADJOURNMENT.•
There being no further business, Mayor Spiro adjourned the March 10, 1998 City
Council meeting at approximately 8:47 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., March 17, 1998, at the
City Offices to continue closed session/personnel matters.
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Recording Clerk
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Mayor