1991/11/26 City Council MinutesRohnert Park City Council Minutes
November 26, 1991
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
Eck presiding.
Councilman Hopkins said he has invited the Association of Bay
Area Government (ABAG) to have its next General Assembly
meeting at the Red Lion Inn in late February or early March
during which there will be discussion regarding regionalism.
He said the Director wants to have the meeting in San
Francisco or Oakland, but Councilman Hopkins said he is making
efforts to encourage having the meeting here.
Mayor Eck said he had two miscellaneous items, with one being
in regard to the bike path on Snyder Lane and the other in
regard to a proclamation commending Manuel Mendoza on the
occasion of his retirement to be reviewed following tonight's
Consent Calendar.
City Manager Netter said he had one item to add under City
Manager's Report.
Prior to opening the regular session of the Council meeting,
Assistant to the City Manager Leivo explained aspects of video
taping Council meetings and said it is the intent of Milti-
Vision to broadcast the videos between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
on the next afternoon following actual Council meetings.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Eck called the regular session to order at approximately
6:15 p.m. and led the pledge of allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Present: (4) Councilmembers Hopkins, Reilly, Spiro and
Mayor Eck
Absent: (1) Councilman Hollingsworth
Staff present for all or part of the meeting: City Manager
Netter, Assistant to the City Manager Leivo, Planning Director
Skanchy, Finance Director Harrow and Director of Performing
Arts Center Grice.
Approval of Minutes
Upon motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, the minutes of November 12, 1991
were unanimously approved as submitted.
Approval of Bills
Upon motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Reilly, and unanimously approved, the bills
presented per the attached list in the amount of
$1,907,927.25 were approved.
Non - agendaed
Mayor Eck queried if any Councilmember had any non - agendaed
Matters
items to add to the agenda.
Councilman Hopkins said he has invited the Association of Bay
Area Government (ABAG) to have its next General Assembly
meeting at the Red Lion Inn in late February or early March
during which there will be discussion regarding regionalism.
He said the Director wants to have the meeting in San
Francisco or Oakland, but Councilman Hopkins said he is making
efforts to encourage having the meeting here.
Mayor Eck said he had two miscellaneous items, with one being
in regard to the bike path on Snyder Lane and the other in
regard to a proclamation commending Manuel Mendoza on the
occasion of his retirement to be reviewed following tonight's
Consent Calendar.
City Manager Netter said he had one item to add under City
Manager's Report.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (2) November 26, 1991
Unscheduled Public Mayor Eck stated that in compliance with State Law (The Brown
Appearances Act), anyone in the audience who wished to make a cornrent may
do so at this time. In most cases under legislation of the
new Brown Act, the Council cannot handle an item without
agendizing. To ensure accurate recording, "Speaker Cards" are
provided at the entrance of the Chamber and unscheduled public
appearances are requested to fill out the cards and present to
recording clerk after speaking. No one responded.
C O N S E N T C A L E N D A R
Mayor Eck queried if anyone had any questions regarding the
matters on the Consent Calendar which were explained in the
City Manager's Council Meeting Memo.
Acknowledging the City Manager /Clerk's report on the posting
Of the agenda.
Resolution No.91 -232 A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO VERNON SMITH
Resolution No.91 -233 A RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK
CONGRATULATING DR. ROBERT SEISUMS ON THE OCCASION OF HIS
RETIREMWr AND DECLARING HIM AN HONORARY CITIZEN OF THE CITY
OF ROHNERT PARK
Resolution No.91 -234 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING SUBDIVISION INPROVVEMENTS AND AUTHORIZING
RELEASE OF SECURITIES, SPRECKEGS PLACE UNIT NO. 6
Resolution No.91 -235 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING SUBDIVISION INPROVEMMS AND AUTHORIZING
RELEASE OF SECURITIES, SPRECKELS PLACE UNIT NO. 7
Resolution No.91 -236 RESOLUTION ACCEPTING SUBDIVISION IMPROVEME[M AND AUTHORIZING
RELEASE OF SECURITIES, SPRECKELS PLACE UNIT NO. 8
Resolution No.91 -237 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT
PARK REJECTING CLAIM OF JOHN GRAYER, JR. (c /o HILDA P.
HASELWOOD, ATTORNEY)
Approval of Parcel Map No. 142 and accepting dedication
(Parcel A, RPX right -of -way, Public Utility Easements) on a 3
lot subdivision of 40.71 acres located in vicinity of Food 4
Less /Price Club/K--Mart. Parcel A is a proposed well site.
Approval of Parcel Map No. 143 on a 2 lot subdivision of
cor wrcial property on 1.82 acres located in the vicinity of
Home Depot/Wal -Mart.
Upon motion by Councilmember Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, the Consent
Calendar as outlined on the meeting's agenda was approved.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (3) November 26, 1991
Manuel Mendoza PROCLAMATION CONNENDING MANUEL NENDOZA ON THE OCCASION OF
Retirement HIS RETIREMENT
City Manager Netter explained the proclamation in honor of
Manuel Mendoza who is retiring from his position as
Maintenance Worker II on November 28, 1991 after twenty years
of dedicated service with the City.
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman
Reilly, Manuel Mendoza's retirement proclamation was
unanimously approved as expressed in content by the Mayor on
behalf of the City Council.
Ordinance No. 550 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ROHNERT PARK AMENDING CHAPTERS
5.08 AND 5.12 OF THE ROHNERT PARK M.JNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO
BUSINESS LICENSE TAX
City Manager Netter explained the ordinance which was
introduced at the previous Council meeting.
Mayor Eck said public comments regarding this ordinance were
taken at the previous Council meeting but he had received
several inquiries on the phone since that time and, therefore,
said further public comments could be heard at this time, if
desired. No one responded.
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, and unanimously approved, reading of Ordinance No. 550
was waived and said ordinance was adopted.
Resolution No.91 -238 RESOLUTION APPROVING UPDATED JOB DESCRIPTIONS FOR CERTAIN
CITY POSITIONS
City Manager Netter explained the resolution as outlined
in the Council Meeting Memo and responded to various
Council questions confirming that this resolution dealt
only with updating job descriptions and did not involve any
salary changes.
Discussion followed regarding requirements of those on the
fire fighting force and possible incentive to younger people
whereas older employees may not continue to be interested in
participating. City Manager Netter confirmed that currently
the fire training is the same for everyone on a rotation basis
with half the force participating every other Wednesday.
Upon motion by Councilman. Hopkins, seconded by Councilmember
Spiro, and unanimously approved, reading of Resolution
No. 91 -238 was waived and said resolution was adopted.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (4) November 26, 1991
Nbbile Home Rent Appeals Board matter:
Vern Smith Mayor Eck said the presentation to Vern Smith scheduled at
presentation this time would be made later tonight since W. Smith had not
yet arrived.
Scheduled Public Appearances:
Betty Ferra 1) Betty Ferra, 433 Ava Avenue, Chairperson of the Cultural
Arts Commission presented to Council an enlarged reproduction
of a 1934 field area picture of Seed Farm Drive with
description of same on small engraved plaque. She said this
special presentation was on behalf of both the Rohnert
Park Cultural Arts Commission and the Rohnert Park Cultural
Arts Corporation.
Mayor Eck expressed appreciation for the presentation on
behalf of the City Council.
Kenneth Mitchell 2) Kenneth Mitchell, Board of Directors Menber of Inter -Faith
Shelter Network, referenced copies provided to Council of his
letter with attachments and shared contents therein explaining
the organization and its needs. Mr. Mitchell responded to
various Council questions regarding regiment of the program at
the Santa Rosa Armory, percentage of Rohnert Park /Cotati use
of the program being approximately 10 %, and the organization's
efforts toward more accurate analysis of the individuals
involved in the use of the program. W. Mitchell said funds
have been specifically provided by the Cities of Santa Rosa
and Petaluma for salaries and that the organization is
currently seeking funds for additional food, bedding, laundry
costs, etc.
Discussion followed during which Council confirmed the need to
support this program and include consideration of funding an
established percentage (up to 10% depending on area use) of
the food and operational costs of the program in next year's
budget review.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Reilly, and unanimously approved, to support in
concept the Inter -Faith Shelter Network functioning as a
program of the Comnittee on the Shelterless (COTS) and to make
an initial contribution in the amount of $1,000 until such
time as the organization can meet with staff after the first
of the year to review actual data to establish a percentage
portion of the food and operational costs based on area use
from the City of Rohnert Park to be considered during next
year's budget review.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (5) November 26, 1991
James M. Clark James M. Clark, 80 Walnut Circle, referenced copies provided
to Council of his letter dated November 18, 1991 with
attachments presenting a proposal for an ordinance to
strengthen the tenancy law for mobile home owners. W. Clark
reviewed sections of an ordinance passed by the City of
Pacifica (copies provided to Council in above - referenced
attachments) and said the City of Rohnert Park could almost
encompass it verbatim. He read the section on page 14 of the
ordinance that he said expressed the main issue regarding the
reasonable costs of relocation shall include cost of
disassembly, removal, transportation, and reinstallation of
the mobilehome, etc. W. Clark said many more people would be
homeless without the protection provided by this type of
ordinance. He said he has been approached to start a petition
for putting this kind of ordinance on the books. W. Clark
said what prompted his participation in this matter was the
recent memo from the City Manager regarding a relocation
inquiry from a mobile home park owner. He said Council's
consideration to this matter would stop the cost of a ballot
measure for the next election and that he would like to see an
ordinance invoked as soon as possible similar to the one
reviewed tonight as adopted this year by the City of Pacifica.
Discussion followed.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved to refer this
mobile home ordinance proposal to the City Attorney and the
Nbbile Home Rent Appeals Board for review and recommendations,
and to schedule the item for Council's further review during a
Council meeting in January 1992.
Planning Commission M-ayor Eck responded to request from Councilmmber Spiro and
matter: said the Planning Commissioner resignation and new appointment
would be handled at this time as a courtesy to the nominee who
was available to meet Council and respond to questions.
Gregory Young Councilmember Spiro referenced copies provided to Council of
resignation letter of resignation effective November 25, 1991 from
Planning Commissioner Gregory Young informing Council that it
is necessary for him to resign from the Planning Commission
because of his imminent move out of the county.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to accept
Gregory Young's letter of resignation from the Planning
Commission.
Vondina Farrell Councilmember Spiro reviewed contents of copies provided to
Appointment Council of Fact Sheet application from Vondina Farrell, 690
Holly Avenue, specifying interest in Planning Commission
appointment. Councilmember Spiro introduced Vondina Farrell
to the Council. Ms. Farrell shared background information
regarding her family, education with degree from Sonoma State
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (6) November 26, 1991
Lhiversity in business management, and that she is currently
employed as a Revenue Officer for the Internal Revenue
Service. She said it is her plan to raise her two children
here as well as retire in this community and welcomes the
opportunity to be on the Planning Commission.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to appoint
Vondina Farrell to the Planning Commission to fill the vacancy
left by the above - resignation of Gregory Young.
Parks and Recreation 1) Naming of R Park - City Manager Netter referenced copies
Commission matters: provided to Council of memo dated November 19, 1991 with
attachments from Recreation Director Pekkain reviewing the
three items listed on tonight's agenda as discussed at the
last Parks and Recreation Commission meeting held on November
18th, 1991. The first attachment was a list of
recommendations from residents for the naming of R Park from
which the Commission recommended naming the park "Redwood
Park" which had eight (8) submittals. "Rainbow Park" had ten
(10) submittals. Discussion followed.
A motion was made by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilman.
Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to accept the majority
opinion of the residents of R Section and name the park
"Rainbow Park ".
2) Sport Team request for funds /revised application form -
City Manager Netter said copies were provided to Council of
the Parks and Recreation Commission Sport Team request for
funds /revised application form and reviewed changes as
outlined in the Council feting Memo. Discussion followed.
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman
Reilly, the revised application form for Sport Team request
for funds as recommended by the Parks and Recreation
Commission was unanimously approved.
3) Recreation Facilities Priorities - City Manager Netter
said for council's information that the Parks and Recreation
Commission has reviewed the Recreation Facilities Priorities
and made changes based on the input received at its meeting of
October 21st which included a public hearing. A final public
hearing is scheduled for December 16th, 1991. The Commission
will make its final recommendation to the Council following
that public hearing which should be sometime in January
of 1992.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (7) November 26, 1991
Comprehensive Annual City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
Financial Report Comprehensive Annual Financial Report 1990 -91, GANN
for Year Ending Appropriation Limitation Report 1991 -91, and the
June 30, 1991 Transportation Development Act (TDA) and shared comments as
reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo. Mr. Netter referenced
copies distributed to Council tonight of Deloitte & Touche
management letter regarding these documents which was received
today and shared contents therein regarding Internal Control
Structure /Wire Transfer Controls; Accounting Records and
Procedures /Fixed Assets; and other matters including Arbitrage
Rebates, Self- Insurance, and Financial Reporting Entity.
Mr. Netter introduced representatives Howard Hoover and Mike
Johnson from the City's external auditing firm of Deloitte &
Touche who formally presented the reports and, along with City
Manager and Finance Director Harrow, responded to various
Council questions regarding contents of the documents,
standard procedures and purpose of the audits resulting in
possible beneficial advice from the external auditors with
recommendations that would impact the City.
City Manager Netter said he would like to publicly commend
Finance Director Harrow and his staff for doing a terrific job
regarding all the efforts involved toward the annual report.
Deloitte & Touch Representative Howard Hoover expressed
appreciation to the Finance Department and the City Manager
for cooperative efforts involved in this audit. Mayor Eck
said the City also appreciates the efforts of Deloitte &
Touche.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to accept the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report 1990 -91 as submitted.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to accept the
GANN Appropriations Limitation Report for Fiscal Year 1990 -91
as submitted.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to accept
the Transportation Development Act (TDA) Audit 1990 -91 as
submitted.
INbbile Home Rent Appeals Board matter:
Vern Smith Mayor Eck presented an engraved pen set to Vern Smith as a
presentation token of appreciation for his four years of dedicated service
to the City as a member of the Mobile Home Rent Appeals Board.
Mr. Smith expressed appreciation for the gift, introduced his
wife, Val, complimenting her patience with his involvement on
the Board especially since he had just retired prior to this
appointment, and shared reflections of the INbbile Home Rent
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (8) November 26, 1991
Appeals Board throughout his two terms on the Board and
cooperative efforts involved from both the mobile home owners
and the Board members. W. Smith thanked Council for the
opportunity to serve on the Rent Appeals Board.
RECESS Mayor Eck declared a recess at approximately 7:25 p.m.
RECONVENE Mayor Eck reconvened the Council meeting at approximately
7:32 p.m. with all Councilmembers present with the exception
of Councilman Hollingsworth.
First Quarter
Financial Review
City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
memorandum dated November 6, 1991 from Finance Director Harrow
Period Ending
regarding the City's 1st Quarter Financial Review for period
Sept.30, 1991
ending September 30, 1991 and shared comments as outlined in
the Council Meeting Memo showing the status of the City's
financial condition and how the actual revenues and
expenditures compare to the proposed budgets. He pointed out
that sales taxes are down about 11% and said if it weren't for
the new stores recently established in the community, the City
would not have met its budget, but because of the new stores,
Rohnert Park is actually doing a little better than other
surrounding communities. W. Netter said expenditures are
close to proposed budget and that staff is keeping a tight
line on expenditures.
Finance Director Harrow reviewed revenues and said the recent
approval of increases such as Real Property Tax, Business
Licenses and Animal Licenses were not included in the first
quarter report because the increases were approved after the
close of the first quarter. He did not think revenues from
the new stores would be able to offset the difference in sales
tax revenues projected in the proposed budget since rather
than increasing 10 %, sales tax revenues have decreased 11%
but the new revenues from the new stores have not yet
been reported.
Discussion followed during which City Imager Netter confirmed
that mandating a 10% cut in the budget would be done, if
necessary, that the second quarter report at the end of
December would give a better over --all picture of the actual
budget conditions, and that staff could provide Council with a
monthly financial report. Finance Director Harrow responded
to Council inquiry that an additional column could be added to
the quarterly report showing the percentage comparison
over or under the proposed budget. Council expressed
compliments to staff for doing a good job on the quarterly
financial report.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (9) November 26, 1991
Council Committee Reports:
Open Space /Sphere 1) Mayor Eck referenced copies provided to Council of memo
of Influence dated November 21, 1991 from Council Committee Members Eck and
Hollingsworth and shared contents therein regarding Open
Space /City's Sphere of Influence. Mayor Eck confirmed it was
the consensus of the Council Committee that the matter of
protection of open space should be one of the Council's
highest priorities and that the Council Committee agrees to
meet in December or January to work with staff on a program,
guidelines, and set of procedures to be recommended to the
City Council to address the issues of open space in and
around the City of Rohnert Park spheres of influence and
possible future annexation, including those areas east of the
city in accordance with the guidelines as outlined in the
General Plan. In addition, the Council Committee recommended
the immediate work on protecting the conrunity separator
north of the existing city limits as has been discussed many
times previously.
Mayor Eck and City Manager Netter responded to various
inquiries from Council regarding specifics discussed at the
recent Council Committee meeting such as not being premature
to strongly enforce all community separators as referenced in
map on display with efforts to maintain open space and
comninity separators at the same time.
Discussion followed on the open space area south of the City
and in the vicinity of the City of Cotati.
City Manager Netter said copies were provided to Council of
letter dated November 15, 1991 from David Hansen, General
Manager of Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open
Space District defining the Final Acquisition Plan and
outlining the schedule for the public workshops regarding this
matter. Mayor Eck said he thought it was important for
members of this Council attend the workshops. Councilman
Hopkins said he did not like the fact that the Board of
Supervisors has the final say and thought the City would live
to regret it down the line, to which Mayor Eck responded
that we did oppose that part of it but we lost and said that
we did what we could at the time.
Performing Arts 2.a) Council Committee Member Spiro referenced copies
Center Financial provided to Council of Financial Review & Box Office reports
Review through through October 1991 (as reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo)
October 1991 pointing out the inQrovement over last year's figures and that
the total deficit is now reduced by approximately 50 %.
Council Committee Member Eck said the Council Committee has
been completely thorough in describing all expenditures to put
the whole picture in perspective and recommended that all
other City Departments and areas should be scrutinized in the
same way. He said if profits are to be made, they will be
true and actual.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (10) November 26, 1991
City Manager Netter distributed copies to Council of the
Financial Report year to date comparisons and breakouts for
the four months ending on October 31, 1991 as requested by the
Council Committee.
Discussion followed during which Council Committee responded
to Council questions and confirmed that even though very good
inroads have been made during these first two years of
Performing Arts Center operations, it will take a few years to
operate close to in the black. Though that is what the
Committee would like to see, with the qua 1 i ty of programming
provided by the Performing Arts Center and intentions being
to meet the interests of the comninity, it may never run in
the black. Director of Performing Arts Center Director Grice
confirmed that the consultants had originally said it would
take three years for the Center to operate in the black, but
he had estimated it would take from three to five years before
this could be expected.
1992 -93 Proposed 2.b) Director of Performing Arts Center Grice referenced
Performing Arts copies provided to Council of staff memo dated October 1, 1991
Center Programming regarding 1992 -93 PAC Programming and shared contents therein
which were briefly reviewed in the Council Nbeting Mew.
Mayor Eck reviewed discussion at the Council Committee meeting
and said the Committee explored ways to make the Center a
little more active before and after performances. He said
tickets can now be purchased for seats which will provide a
further way of developing endowments.
Council Committee Member Spiro corrplimented the recent
dinner with the American Golf Association held at the
Performing Arts Center and said the Center could probably
be subleased to others for light dinners to which City Manager
Netter responded that staff is looking in that direction.
Discussion continued on the proposed 92 -93 season during which
the City Council agreed with the recommendation of the Council
Committee for staff to pursue a symphony program that would
include a "pops" program and a holiday sing along. Also to be
considered is a four set, 3 performances versus a five set,
two performances. The four set, 3 performances would include
Friday and Saturday night performances with the third
performance being a Sunday matinee.
Regionalism/ABAG Councilman Hopkins reported on the Association of Bay Area
Bay Vision 2020 Government (ABAG) General Assembly meeting he attended on
Platform Paper November 21st, 1991 regarding the Bay Vision 2020 Platform
Paper on regionalism. There were some breakout sessions to
review regionalism but not mach was accomplished and there was
no vote on the platform paper. Councilman Hopkins said there
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (11) November 26, 1991
will be another meeting in late February or March and he is
making efforts toward having it here, though, as he mentioned
earlier in tonight's meeting, the Director's preference is
to have it in San Francisco or Oakland.
Councilman Hopkins also added, referencing transit, that Bill
Kortum has a program suggestion of a two county transit
district between Sonoma County and Marin County with the idea
of a Regional Transit Plan and of taking this matter to the
people on the ballot in 1992. Rohnert Park should consider
paying its fair share based on population. Councilman Hopkins
said he would like the Rohnert Park City Council to concur, if
serious about a transit study, that it would agree to pay its
fair share. Mr. Hopkins said he would like to be the first to
go on record saying we want transit and saying that if the
voters say they want it, the City should put in its fair share
of the cost even if it means the $1 million amount to get the
plan going. Mr. Hopkins said, if Council feels uncomfortable
with the potential dollar amounts, the issue could be dealt
with in concept approving the initial effort.
Mayor Eck suggested reviewing this matter more fully in
January. Council agreed.
Choices Restaurant City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
billboard request letter dated November 14, 1991 from Tom Kavishi, General
Partner of Choices Restaurant requesting the City to
relinquish its rights to the billboard at the north end of the
City which the City leases from National Advertising Company
and shared comnents as reviewed in the Council Meeting Memo.
Discussion followed during which Councilman Hopkins
recommended release of the sign with the condition that
Choices Restaurant develop a design that would benefit the
City to which City Manager responded that the City is simply
leasing the billboard from the National Advertising Company
and, if released, would not retain options as the new lessee
would then be paying for its rights of use. Councilmember
Spiro said availability of the sign should be made known to
other businesses in the neighborhood that might also be
interested in using it to promote their businesses to which
City Manager Netter responded that Council had previously
requested staff to check into getting a release from this
particular billboard and did not think the City would want to
be in a position of soliciting outside uses. He confirmed to
Mayor Eck's inquiry that he could check into sub - leasing
possibilities. Mr. Netter pointed out that Choices
Restaurant took the initiative to inquire about use of the
billboard and said anyone in private enterprise had the same
option and /or opportunity, if interested.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (12) November 26, 1991
A motion was made by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilman
Hopkins, that the City relinquish rights to the referenced
billboard and encourage Choices Restaurant to develop a design
that would benefit the City as well as promote its business,
and was approved by the following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmen Hopkins, Reilly and Mayor Eck
NOES: (1) Councilmember Spiro
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hollingsworth
Commission /Committee City Manager Netter said copies were provided to Council of
Board Appointments staff report dated November 18, 1991 regarding
Commission /Committee /Board appointments due to expire as of
December 31, 1991.
Discussion followed during which Council concurred to handle
all re- appointments by a single vote and individually specify
any exceptions.
Mayor Eck said due to the absence of Councilman Hollingsworth
at tonight's meeting it would be necessary to defer his
appointments to the next Council meeting which include Parks
and Recreation Commission (currently James Stevens) and
Planning Commission (currently John Hamilton).
Councilman Reilly requested advertisement of his Parks and
Recreation appointment (currently David O'Brien).
Mayor Eck said he had not realized that the vacancy existed on
the Cultural Arts Commission which was his appointment, but
recommended deferring this matter until after the desired re-
organization of the Commission and Corporation is accomplished
which has been discussed with him by the members.
Council concurred the need to further advertise all three
Nbbile Home Rent Appeals Board openings as the impending
vacancies must be filled by new members in accordance with
C)"Ji nanre No. 494 :.herein no member shall serve more than two
2 -year terms.
Upon motion by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by Councilman
Reilly, and unanimously approved, re- appointments were
confirmed and made for additional two year terms as follows:
1) Parks and Recreation Commission:
Mayor Eck's re- appointment of James Plaisted
2) Planning Commission:
Councilman Hopkin's re- appointment of Michael Mullins
3) Senior Citizens Advisory Commission:
Mayor Eck's re- appointment of Ann Kennedy
Councilmember Spiro's re- appointment of Herb Lyons
Re- appointments for two year terms to the Sister City(s)
Relations Committee were made by Council consensus as follows:
Gordon Adam, Carol Grubler and Dave Santori.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (13) November 26, 1991
Solid Waste matter: City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
staff report with attachments and shared comments as reviewed
in the Council Meeting Memo regarding County of Sonoma's
Proposal to form a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for wood
waste, yard waste, household hazardous waste and public
education. This item was deferred from the previous Council
meeting because of a scheduled workshop on November 22nd for
City Managers to further review this matter. Mr. Netter
said the City Managers did meet last Friday and shared
contents of distributed copies to Council of a hand out that
was developed from conclusions of a prior City Managers'
meeting regarding the issues that were important to those
cities after review of the referenced draft JPA (Copy attached
to original set of these minutes). Ed Walker, Sonoma County
Public Works Director, is going to be pushing to establish
cost centers throughout the County and is going to pursue this
idea in the next budget reviews with the County. This
approach changes or even eliminates a lot of the concerns the
City Managers had regarding the JPA as it would eliminate the
more populated areas subsidizing the rural areas and the rates
would be based on tipping fees charged by area. Mr. Netter
said it would be good to see some kind of mechanism for cost
centers throughout the County as recommended by Ed Walker.
Discussion followed during which City Manager Netter responded
to various Council questions and reviewed additional concerns
expressed by the City Managers regarding the JPA such as
costs. Mr. Netter said many of the City Managers think it is
the right thing to do but there is still the concern of
costs that will be reviewed in greater depth.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilman Reilly, and unanimously approved, to approve in
concept the Joint Powers Authority with Rohnert Park as a
member and to proceed with the completion of a final draft
with all the recommended changes for Council's consideration.
Staff indicated a letter would be forwarded to Sonoma County
Public Works Department indicating Rohnert Park's interest in
being a member of the JPA and approving the JPA in concept
subject to recommended changes.
Regional Hazardous City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council of
Waste Capacity letter dated October 22, 1991 from Jeff D. Lewin, Supervising
Allocation Plan Environmental Health Specialist from the County of Sonoma
Public Health Department regarding the Regional Hazardous
Waste Capacity Allocation Plan and shared comments as reviewed
in the Council Meeting Memo. W. Netter confirmed that staff
recommends a letter be submitted to the Board of Supervisors
supporting the interjurisdictional agreement.
A motion was made by Councilman Reilly, seconded by Councilman.
Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to send a letter in support
of the Regional Hazardous Waste Capacity Allocation Plan as
recommended by staff.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (14) November 26, 1991
Transportation matter:City Manager Netter said copies were provided to Council of
letter dated October 30, 1991 from David Knight, Chairman of
the Transit Technical Advisory Committee and shared comments
on the three issues listed as reviewed in the Council Nbeting
1)TDA Amended Claim
Memo. The first item requests an amendment to Rohnert Park's
TDA Claim authorizing that $4,482 originally allocated to
Rohnert Park for streets and roads purposes be reallocated to
the County of Sonoma for inter -city paratransit services
currently provided by Volunteer Wheels. He said staff
recommends this reallocation which represents 23.7% of the
share which was negotiated as a compromise solution and is a
mach lower amount than originally requested by MCC.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to support
staff's recommendation to authorize amendment to TDA claim to
reallocate $4,482 as requested.
2) ADA Plan & 5 -Year
City Manager Netter said the second item of the above-
Transit Plan Update
referenced letter requests the City to contribute to and
endorse the coordinated Countywide Americans With Disability
Act (ADA) Plan and Countywide Five Year Transit Plan Update
which are now under way. Mr. Netter shared comments of this
portion of the letter as reviewed in the Council Nbeting Memo
and said this is another mandate that is going to be a cost to
the cities and the county but it mast be implemented in order
to save money and provide the needed inter and intra -city
fixed route transit and paratransit services. He recommnded
that Council go on record endorsing this plan.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to endorse the
ADA Plan as recommended by staff.
3) State Transit
City Manager Netter said the third item of the above -
Assistance (STA)
referenced letter as reviewed in the Council Nbeting Memo is
funds to assist
regarding the need to comnit all the State Transit Assistance
ADA requirements
Funds (STA) populated base monies to assist with satisfying
the ADA requirements which is in addition to the TDA funds.
W. Netter said approval of this is also recommended by staff.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to apply STA
funds to assist with ADA requirements as recommended by staff.
Lease of City Land
City Manager Netter referenced site map on display and said
to Petaluma Valley
copies were provided to Council of his memo dated November 22,
Hospital/WI unit
1991 regarding Lease of City Land to Petaluma Valley Hospital
for NRI Unit. W. Netter shared contents therein outlining
changes from the original siting request which was approved in
concept at the Council meeting of May 14, 1991. He said staff
recommends concept approval of the site plan changes as
requested with lease to be drafted outlining the terms and
conditions for rental of said site. Mr. wetter shared some of
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (15) November 26, 1991
the basic terms of the proposed lease as outlined in the
above- referenced staff mean. In summary, he said staff is
soliciting Council's approval to proceed with drafting a
lease, setting a rental fee and finalizing the program.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, to approve in concept the site plan
proposal of Petaluma Valley Hospital for the NRI unit subject
to approval of City land lease agreement, and approved by the
following vote:
AYES: (3) Councilmembers Hopkins, Spiro and Mayor Eck
NOES: (0) None
ABSTAIN: (1) Councilman Reilly
ABSENT: (1) Councilman Hollingsworth
Councilman Reilly said it was necessary to abstain from this
vote because of his previously expressed personal conflict
with the hospital.
Debra Land Investment -City NHnager Netter referenced map on display and said copies
Corporation request were provided to Council of letter dated November 20, 1991
for annexation from Phillip A. Trowbridge, Vice President of Debra Investment
Corporation regarding an official request to annex 80 acres
adjacent to Petaluma Hill Road in the general vicinity of the
Hewlett Packard site. Mr. Netter shared comments as reviewed
in the Council Meeting N3amo and pointed out that the attach-
ment to the letter provided preliminary information regarding
questions and answers related to the proposed project
including explanation that for the 80 acres annexed on the
east side, an additional 72 acres would be dedicated to the
City as specified. He said the proposed plans do seem to tie
into open space considerations. If Council decides to
consider the proposal, it would be tied into the General Plan
update process which would include complete review of all
elements in the General Plan. Certain rules as outlined in
the General Plan would have to be followed. Mr. Netter said
the applicant was present at tonight's meeting to respond to
possible questions of Council and commnted that other raised
hands signified interest to comwnt on this matter.
Discussion followed during which Council complimented the
various innovations of the proposal as outlined in the
attachment to the applicants letter such as retrofitting older
homes with water conservation measures to allow for adding
some new homes to existing sewer lines, and affordability of a
certain percentage of the homes to be built on a smaller
scale with Council recommendation that the 15% proposed for
the number of these homes be increased to a more significant
percentage. Comparisons were made of housing prices in other
locations throughout the state verifying the extreme need for
affordable housing. Council exchanged comments regarding the
logic of doing a fast track General Plan update compared to
proceeding in a timely fashion with consideration to begin
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (16) November 26, 1991
planning for the process which would keep the costs of a
General Plan update to a minimum at least until budget review
time next July. Concern was expressed regarding frustration
of developing plans for needed high density and affordable
housing and dealing with the road blocks preventing same with
suggestion to proceed with efficiency of a General Plan
amendment with a good proposal that stands on its own merit.
Response following amendment suggestion for a particular
project was there could be repercussions from other submittals
turned away during the past year for the reason of needing the
General Plan updated. Response to this was that all
applicants concerned could be notified with same option for
review upon merit. Comments were further made regarding the
General Plan's general principle of not considering land
outside borders without a complete General Plan update
including review of all the elements as well as the fact that
the cost of updating the General Plan was not included in this
year's budget. The inflationary risks involved of hindering
such a needed innovative proposal were compared to the cost of
dealing with an unbudgeted item like updating the General Plan
which would basically be an upfront cost but eventually
covered by the development.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, to start the process moving by referring
this proposal to the Planning Commission for review and
recommendation which would include City Attorney opinion and
staff recommendations for direction regarding a full scale
General Plan update or a General Plan amendment.
Further discussion followed during which City Imager Netter
said that, unless Council decides to reject this proposal, the
rules are set and it will be necessary to go through the
process outlined in the General Plan.
Mayor Eck said he would be willing to move the target date up
a year or two on the General Plan process, that his only
concern was regarding the budget and the approximately
$100,000 it will cost to do an update, and that the focus
should not be on any particular project. He said tonight's
proposal should be included in a General Plan update review
along with any other submittals. He referred to previous
comments he made earlier in tonight's meeting regarding
Council Committee, comprised of himself and Councilman
Hollingsworth, desire to report to full Council in January
with Committee recommendations on timing, format and how to
proceed. Mayor Eck said Councilman Hollingsworth also has
specific input he would like to contribute to this matter.
Councilman Hopkins withdrew his motion.
I-layor Eck said a public hearing had not been scheduled for
this matter, but public comments could be heard at this time.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (17) November 26, 1991
Jake MacKenzie Jake MacKenzie, 1536 Gladstone Way, said there is a mechanism
in the Mitigation Nbnitoring Plan under the Housing Element
that by 1995, as part of an update review, with the
development of up to 1300 housing units, the City should then
examine public facilities and service capacity. W. MacKenzie
said if Council follows what it has in the Housing Element, it
would provide the opportunity to look at the process and not
rush it according to one project. There is a very clear
commitment in the document and before the City does any annex-
ation of lands, it is to do a thorough General Plan review.
There were no further public comments at this time.
Discussion followed regarding further comparisons of General
Plan amendments to full scale updates with confirmation of the
need to set the process in motion.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to begin the
process to update the General Plan and consider tonight's
proposal along with open space, spheres of influence and other
City policy issues as referenced earlier in the Report by
Council Committee Eck and Hollingsworth by following the
procedures as outlined in the General Plan and start the
entire process moving by directing the Council Committee and
staff to meet and establish a recommended process for review
by the full Council following the opinion from City Attorney
Flitner on the process and options available.
Phillip Trowbridge, Vice President of Debra Investment
Corporation expressed appreciation to Council for tonight's
discussion regarding this matter. He said it was the intent
of Debra Investment Corporation to just see if something could
get started regarding its proposal and that timing is a factor
but immediate action was not expected. Rohnert Park has done
well in dealing with affordable housing. Debra Investments
has a similar project in Windsor that is working and is an
available tool for consideration. The capacity issue is a
real one and this program is conducive with the water capacity
effort as well as the affordable housing issue making it the
innovative project that it is and the reason for bringing it
forward for consideration. Mr. Trowbridge responded to
various Council questions and said the company is not
attempting to get rich on the project but there is an
inflationary risk involved with timing. There may be some
profits but work is also being provided and the sooner the
process can work and be satisfied, the sooner the other
factors can be balanced. He confirmed that Debra Investments
did anticipate the process in the proposal.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (18) November 26, 1991
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.
Councilmember Spiro brought attention to several
communications as follows:
1) Letter from Senator Mike Thompson dated October 26, 1991
responding to City Attorney Flitner's previous letter
bringing his attention to the ambiguous wording of
Government Code Section 53150. Councilmember Spiro
queried how does that affect the process and decisions the
City has previously followed.
2) San Francisco Chronicle article dated November 6, 1991
entitled "Big Doings at the Smallest TV Station" - A
letter should be written to the Chronicle advising that
KRCB -TV, Channel 22 is located in Rohnert Park, not Cotati
as stated in the article.
3) Letter regarding Cable TV budget for the Wine Visitors
Center - Councilmember Spiro said she was glad to see more
advertisement put in for the Wine Visitor Center.
4) Councilmember Spiro referenced item #15 on the
Communications List and said a letter of response should
be written to the citizen regarding the site for a
transit station.
5) Letter from Consumer Federation of America /National
Association of Broadcasters (CFA /NAB) dated November 8,
1991 regarding 5.12, the Cable Television Consumer
Protection Act of 1991 - Councilmia ber Spiro recommended
supporting the cable re- regulation legislation which was
recently brought up at the Mayors and Councilmembers
Association meeting.
6) Letter from Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control dated
November 7, 1991 requesting support of proposed policy
developed as a result of meetings with the Responsible
Hospitality Project directed toward controlling alcoholic
beverage sales and service at city /county facilities -
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro, seconded by
Councilman. Hopkins, and unanimously approved, to prepare a
resolution for the next Council agenda supporting the
above- referenced alcohol control policy.
7) Letter requesting support of desalinization program -
Councilmember Spiro suggested support of this program to
which Mayor Eck responded he was not sure he could support
it because they are basically asking for a statewide
program and he would want to know more about it and if
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (19) November 26, 1991
they are asking Council for support as members of the
public. He said desalinization is a last resort effort
and very expensive and he would be much more interested in
having a conservation program. Mayor Eck said he would
check further into the matter rather than use staff time.
8) Councilmember Spiro referenced a recent newspaper article
and suggested that the City send a thank you letter to the
police officers who reacted so kindly in purchasing baby
formula for a needy local citizen.
9) United Way Fund Raising Canpaign - Councilmember Spiro
referenced the interoffice memorandum regarding the tkLited
Way Fund Raising Campaign and said she did not think tax
payers dollars should be used to encourage giving to
particular charities. City NIanager Netter responded that
the United Way involves many charities, that the campaign
is almost traditional in larger companies, and that
employees participation is strictly on a voluntary basis.
Councilmember Spiro said there are a lot of good charities
not included in United Way, the administrative costs are
high, staff time should not be spent soliciting for any
one agency, and that she would rather see encouragement
toward savings bonds. Councilman Reilly said he was
Chairperson for United Way and a person can request their
contribution be given directly to any charity not on
United Way's list. Discussion followed.
A motion was made by Councilmember Spiro that the City
should not participate with staff help or in any other
manner to participate in the fund raising of any
organization, specifically the United Way.
Notion died for lack of a second.
Mayor Eck said Councilmember Spiro called attention to the
three items he planned to review, and therefore, further
discussion regarding these matters was not necessary.
City Manager's Report:1) Colorado Rockies/Major League Baseball /seeking Class A
Minor League location - City Manager Netter referenced
comments reviewed in Council Meeting Memo which was
provided for Council's information.
2) Parcel adjacent to Burbank Housing Project on East Coati
Avenue - City Manager Netter said this item was also
reviewed in the Council Nbeting Memo for informational
purposes to Council.
3) Fall Cleanup report - City Manager Netter referenced
copies provided to Council of billing invoice from Empire
Waste Management and reported details of the Fall Cleanup
as outlined in the Council Meeting Memo which cut the
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (20) November 26, 1991
City's costs approximately in half compared to the
previous year because of the central site location. He
said staff recommends continuing these cleanups at a
central site such as the Rohnert Park Stadium because of
the savings to the City. Mayor Eck complimented efforts
of the Fall Cleanup and said it was an outstanding
program.
4) Space for Friends of the Library - City Manager Netter
reviewed comments in the Council Meeting NSemro regarding
space for Friends of the Library. Cotati - Rohnert Park
Unified School District has confirmed to allow Friends of
the Library use of one portable building at the Rancho
Cotate High School by early December. Staff is requesting
ratification of its authorization of an expenditure of
$427 in order to install a meter to provide heat to the
building to properly protect the books.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmember Spiro, and unanimously approved, to ratify
the $427 expenditure to install a meter at the above -
referenced portable building at Rancho Cotate High School
for use by Friends of the Library.
5) Back Yard Composting Program - City Manager Netter
referenced copies provided to Council of staff memo
regarding the Backyard Composting Program and shared
contents therein as reviewed in the Council Meeting Nbmo.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilman Reilly, and unanimously approved, to continue
with the joint backyard composting program with the City
of Santa Rosa of which Rohnert Park's 25% share of cost
totals $10,000 maximiun as recommended by staff.
6) City Manager Netter reviewed details of SB2557 County
.Agreement to Due Back Credits for 1990 -91 regarding 50%
credit nn shared 1-0- 1 g fees CLa 50%
credit on property
administrative fees. He said the agreement has cleared
through the County Counsel wherein the County Counsel
formulated a hold harmless clause in order to proceed
without potential repercussions.
A motion was made by Councilman Hopkins, seconded by
Councilmemiber Spiro, and unanimously approved, approving
in concept the SB2557 County Agreement for Due Back
Credits for 1990 -91 as recommended by staff. (The formal
agreement will be provided to Council for approval at a
later date.)
Matters from Council: 1) Mayor Eck said recent conversation with Dr. King
established that the School District would like to have
the annual joint meeting with Council on Tuesday, January
21, 1992. Council concurred.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (21) November 26, 1991
2) City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council
of letter dated November 20, 1991 from MultiVision
requesting a December date for Cable TV Emergency Override
System presentation. Council concurred to Friday,
December 13th, 1991 at 11:00 a.m.
3) City Manager Netter referenced copies provided to Council
of letter dated November 22, 1991 from City of Cotati
suggesting to reschedule the Joint City Council Meeting to
Wednesday evening, January 15, 1992. Council concurred.
4) City Manager Netter said the City employees' appreciation
affair will be held at the Red Lion Inn on Friday, January
17, 1991.
5) City Manager Netter said the Commissioners' appreciation
affair will be held at Mountain Shadows Resort on Friday,
January 31, 1992. Suggested was made by Councilman
Hopkins that it might be a nice gesture to invite past
Councilmembers to the Commissioners' appreciation affair.
6) Mayor Eck said he had two miscellaneous golf course items.
The Golf Course Committee will be meeting soon and Mayor
Eck said he has received a number of complaints from the
men's club regarding concerns on Mountain Shadows
operations as it pertains to the men's club. City Manager
Netter said he would work out details. Mayor Eck asked
about the status of landscaping plan around the new eatery
shack. He said residents have commented that they don't
want trees as they are worried about blocking the view.
City Manager Netter said he would check on the plans and
contact the residents and golf course management.
7) Mayor Eck referred to the work in process in regard to
widening Snyder Lane and asked if the new bike path would
planned there at this time. City Manager Netter said the
bike path was not designed in these plans but he would
talk to the City Engineer about it.
8) Councilmember Spiro said the next Housing Task Force
meeting has been canceled and asked when was the sunset
date for this task force. Assistant to the City Manager
Leivo responded the sunset date would be in the spring one
year from formation date.
9) Councilman Reilly said some of the scrapings are fairly
deep on the Snyder Lane widening project and asked if the
asphalt would be done soon. City Manager Netter said it
depends on the weather now with the late start of the
project, but might be completed after the first of the
year. He confirmed he would check with the City Engineer
regarding the safety conditions of the project and require
proper attention to the major dips.
Rohnert Park City Council Minutes (22) November 26, 1991
Unscheduled Public Mayor Eck asked if anyone in the audience wished to make an
Appearances appearance at this time.
George Horwedel George Horwedel, 7669 Camino Colegio, asked what time the
televised Council meetings would be aired and wondered if it
would be permissible to advertise in their publication.
Assistant to the City Manager Leivo responded that tonight's
initial televising would probably not be aired because of the
need to work out sound problems. Council confirmed that the
televised meetings are public information and that notices
regarding airing times would be proper.
Adjournment Mayor Eck adjourned the meeting at approximately 10:05 p.m. to
6:00 p.m, on December 3rd, 1991 to change Council officers.
r. - f
Mayor
JPA ISSUES
Extended term 25 years
All signatories (sec. 4)
Landfill gases /compost
Heat - Permit Problem
Start- up.aosts - fund loan
Research sealed container requirement (Sec. 8)
Minimum deliveries of wood waste /yard waste
RFP in JPA
Periodic O & M payments
Rate Ordinance
Start-up cash
Separate cost centers
Each city pick and choose
Late buy -ins and withdrawals (leave capital)
Cities vote on only issues that they participate in
Education level of service defined by JPA
Reimburse County for costs (Sec. 19)
Add marketing co- operation
Exclude business hazardous waste