HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2000-07-17SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 1
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, JULY 17, 2000 AT 8:00 P.M.
Regular Meeting:
San Rafael City Council
Also Present: Rod Gould, City Manager
Gary T. Ragghianti, City Attorney
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
OPEN SESSION - COUNCIL CHAMBER - 7:00 PM
Mayor Boro announced Closed Session item.
CLOSED SESSION - COUNCIL CHAMBER - 7:00 PM
Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor
Barbara Heller, Vice -Mayor
Paul M. Cohen, Councilmember
Cyr N. Miller, Councilmember
Gary 0. Phillips, Councilmember
Absent: None
1. Public Employee Performance Evaluation (Government Code Section 54957)
Title: City Manager
City Attorney Gary Ragghianti announced no reportable action was taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE: 8:00 PM
Re: MTBE GASOLINE ADDITIVE - File 13-12 x 13-1 x 13-4
Bruce Bullard brought to the attention of the Council a copy of letter he received from the Association of
California Water Agencies addressed to President Clinton regarding the gasoline additive MTBE. Mr. Bullard
then read the letter, dated July 10, 2000, into the record, which basically stated that the MTBE water supply
contamination epidemic needs to be addressed immediately and that there needs to be a waiver from the
oxygenate mandate increases.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Miller moved and Councilmember Cohen seconded, to approve the following Consent Calendar
items:
ITEM
RECOMMENDED ACTION
2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of Monday, Minutes approved as submitted.
July 3, 2000 (CC)
3. Summary of Legislation Affecting San Rafael (CM) Accepted report.
- File 116- x 9-1
5. SECOND READING AND FINAL ADOPTION OF
ORDINANCE NO. 1753 — An Ordinance of the City of
San Rafael Setting the Paramedic Tax Rate,
Commencing with Fiscal Year 2000-2001, at the
Rates Allowed in Ordinance No. 1747 for Residential
and Non -Residential Properties in the City of San
Rafael; and Further Confirming the Paramedic Tax
Rates, Commencing with Fiscal Year 2000-2001 for
Residential and Non -Residential Properties in the City
of San Rafael, the Marinwood Community Services
District, County Service Area No. 13, and County
Service Area No. 19 (MS)
— File 9-3-31 x 4-13-56 x 9-12-1
6. Resolution Accepting an Irrevocable Offer of
Dedication for Use as a Public Street on Lands of
Albert Lofts, LLC, APNs 13-012-10 and 13-102-23
(PW) — File 2-2-1
Approved final adoption of
Ordinance No. 1753. (Residential rate -
$49; non-residential rate - $.06 per square
foot.)
RESOLUTION NO. 10666 -
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING AN IRREVOCABLE
OFFER OF DEDICATION FOR USE AS A
PUBLIC STREET ON LANDS OF ALBERT
LOFTS, LLC, APNs 13-012-10 and 13-102-23
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 1
ITEM
7. Resolution Authorizing the Mayor to Execute an
Agreement Between the City of San Rafael and Mr.
and Mrs. Mark A. Lechowski Regarding Future
Annexation of Real Property, APN 016-011-01, to the
City of San Rafael (PW) — File 5-2-96
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 2
RECOMMENDED ACTION
RESOLUTION NO. 10667 -
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO
EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AND MR. AND MRS.
MARK A. LECHOWSKI REGARDING FUTURE
ANNEXATION OF REAL PROPERTY AT 371
MARGARITA DRIVE, APN 016-011-01, TO
THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
8. Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Two RESOLUTION NO. 10668 -
Paramedic Ambulances for the Fire Department (FD) RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE
— File 4-2-302 OF TWO PARAMEDIC AMBULANCES FROM
LEADER INDUSTRIES, INC. (in amount of
$273,560.07)
9. Resolution Authorizing Approval of Sole Source
Purchase of Two Sets of Hurst Extrication Tools from
L.N. Curtis & Sons for the Fire Department (FD)
— File 4-2-303
10. Resolution Authorizing the Fire Chief to Renew a
Lease Agreement with the State of California (San
Quentin State Prison) for the Mounting and
Installation of Antennas and Receiver on Their Radio
Tower (July 1, 2000 to June 30, 2005) (FD)
— File 2-8-28 x 9-3-31
RESOLUTION NO. 10669 -
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FIRE
DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE EXTRICATION
TOOLS FROM SOLE SOURCE VENDOR L. N.
CURTIS Ft SONS (IN AMOUNT OF $37,015.00)
RESOLUTION NO. 10670 -
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE FIRE CHIEF
TO RENEW A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE
STATE OF CALIFORNIA (SAN QUENTIN STATE
PRISON) FOR THE MOUNTING AND
INSTALLATION OF ANTENNAS AND RECEIVER
ON THEIR RADIO TOWER (JULY 1, 2000 TO
JUNE 30, 2005)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
The following item was removed from the Consent Calendar for further discussion at the request of
Mayor Boro:
4. STRATEGIC AND FINANCIAL ADVISORY BOARD: (CM) — File 9-2-48 x 102
a. RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 10322 AND DISSOLVING THE STRATEGIC AND
FINANCIAL ADVISORY BOARD (FORMERLY BUDGET OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
b. RESOLUTIONS OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBERS AND ADVISOR
Mr. Isotalo addressed the Council, reporting on the group's final project, the City's revamped two-year
budgeting and planning process initiated for the 1999/2000 cycle. He stated the Board's conclusions
were based on a series of round table interview discussions with the department heads of Management
Services, Police, Fire, Public Works, and Community Development. The discussions were not about the
details of the budget, but about the process itself and the department heads' perspectives on that
process.
The Board concluded that the process is working in that City leadership has introduced a highly
professional process and set of concepts with a focus on services and results rather than minutia.
Further, all the departments interviewed conveyed a sense of participation and professionalism.
Mr. Isotalo noted the following issue areas in need of more emphasis:
1. Information technology and applications to improve service effectiveness and to control costs;
2. Staff training, development and retention, particularly in light of today's tight labor markets; and
3. Adequate reserves for the unfunded infrastructure requirements.
Mr. Isotalo noted that the Council may wish to ask for the documents to identify the specific links to
the priorities laid out in front of the process.
On behalf of all the advisory board's members, past and present, Mr. Isotalo thanked the Council and
City Staff for their support. He gave special thanks to Assistant City Manager Ken Nordhoff for
dedicating many extra evening hours to the support of their activities.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 2
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 3
4a. Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to adopt the Resolution rescinding
Resolution No. 10322 and dissolving the Strategic and Financial Advisory Board (formerly the Budget
Oversight Committee).
RESOLUTION NO. 10671 - RESOLUTION RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 10322 AND
DISSOLVING THE STRATEGIC AND FINANCIAL ADVISORY BOARD
(FORMERLY BUDGET OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
4b. Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to adopt the eight Resolutions of
Appreciation to Strategic and Financial Advisory Board Members, and Advisor.
RESOLUTION NO. 10672 - RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER ALBERT BARR
RESOLUTION NO. 10673 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER JUDY DENNING
RESOLUTION NO. 10674 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER JACK DEVLIN (CHAIR)
RESOLUTION NO. 10675 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER JOHN GRASHAM
RESOLUTION NO. 10676 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER LEO ISOTALO
RESOLUTION NO. 10677 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER TOM OBLETZ
RESOLUTION NO. 10678 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBER MICK SPILSBURY
RESOLUTION NO. 10679 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO ADVISOR BOB PARR,
SAN RAFAEL FIRE ENGINEER
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
None
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
11. PRESENTATIONS OF RESOLUTIONS OF APPRECIATION TO MEMBERS OF THE STRATEGIC AND FINANCIAL
ADVISORY BOARD AND ADVISOR (MS) — File 9-2-48 x 102
The Council gathered at the podium to present the Resolutions of Appreciation to the Strategic and
Financial Advisory Board. On behalf of the Council, Mayor Boro expressed appreciation for the
Committee's attendance this evening, noting that it is rare that a Committee requests to dissolve
because its work is concluded.
In particular, the Mayor honored ex -officio Bob Parr, for his outstanding contribution to the Committee,
noting Mr. Parr had been present at every meeting since its formation. Mayor Boro gave a special
thanks to Jack Devlin, also a member of the Committee since its inception. The Mayor then presented
each member with a Resolution of Appreciation from the City: Albert Barr, Judy Denning, Jack Devlin
(Chair), John Grasham, Leo Isotalo, Tom Obletz and Mick Spilsbury; also Advisor Bob Parr.
Advisory Boardmember John Grasham thanked the Council for the opportunity to serve on the Board,
adding that through their service, the group has an increased knowledge and respect for the elected
officials of San Rafael.
PUBLIC HEARING:
12. PUBLIC HEARING — TO CONSIDER THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY THE SAN RAFAEL
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING FINANCING FOR THE ACQUISITION
AND REHABILITATION OF APARTMENTS LOCATED AT 162-172 BELVEDERE STREET (RA)
— File 140 x 13-16 x (SRRA) R-173 x R-404 x R-413
Mayor Boro declared the public hearing opened, and asked for the staff report.
Ms. Stephanie Lovette, Senior Development Specialist, reported that the cost of acquisition and
rehabilitation for this project is estimated at $6,400,000. Sources of funding for the project include tax
exempt financing, the San Rafael Redevelopment Agency, the County of Marin, through the Marin
County CDBG/HOME program, the Marin Community Foundation, and some investor equity. Currently,
Staff is anticipating that the Marin Community Foundation will be addressing this item at their August
3rd meeting. Staff is in hopes that the Foundation will proceed with their request for $1,500,000 to
acquire the property. Staff will report the Foundation's decision at the Council's August 7t" meeting.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 3
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 4
Ms. Lovette noted that Staff has filed an application with the California Debt Limit Allocation
Committee, a committee that allocates tax-exempt bonds. According to federal tax law, the City
Council must hold a public hearing on the issuance of bonds prior to the time the CDLAC Committee
meets to allocate this quarter's bonds. CDLAC will be meeting in early September. Staff will be making
their recommendations and rankings in August.
Ms. Lovette noted that tonight's hearing does not obligate the Redevelopment Agency to issue bonds.
Staff anticipates bringing the Council a report in September that will outline all of the financing options
for the project. At this time, the project hinges on approval from the Marin Community Foundation. If
the Foundation does not approve the request, Staff will have to back out of the CDLAC allocation, as
once CDLAC approves the allocation, Staff has 60 days to issue the bonds. Ms. Lovette invited the
Council's questions, noting that Dick Bornholdt, Housing Consultant, was on hand to answer the
Council's questions as well.
Councilmember Heller asked if she understood correctly that the purpose of tonight's hearing is to
acknowledge the City's interest in the project. Ms. Lovette stated that was correct. She noted that
because there was an issue in the past of non-profit developers indicating they had the City's approval
on a project when in fact they did not, the federal tax law now requires the City take an official action
to substantiate City support.
Mayor Boro invited public testimony. There being no comments from the public on this item, Mayor
Boro closed the public hearing and brought the matter back to the Council for action.
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Miller seconded, to adopt the Resolution.
RESOLUTION NO. 10680 - RESOLUTION APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY THE
SAN RAFAEL REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR THE PURPOSE OF
PROVIDING FINANCING FOR THE ACQUISITION AND REHABILITATION
OF APARTMENTS LOCATED AT 162-172 BELVEDERE STREET (in the
maximum principal amount of $7,000,000)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION:
OLD BUSINESS:
13. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED PARKSIDE CHILD CARE CENTER AND APPROVAL TO CALL FOR BIDS (CS)
— File 4-1-521 x 9-3-65
Community Services Director Carlene McCart reported that this will be the first municipal community
facility San Rafael has built since opening the doors of Pickleweed Community Center in 1980. Five
years prior to that, the City opened the San Rafael Community Center. Ms. McCart noted that the City
has one of the largest municipal child care systems in Northern California and has been consistently
held up as the benchmark for quality programming and innovative approaches to facilities as well as
staffing. The installation of the Parkside Child Care Center will continue that tradition.
Staff has conducted a multi -department approach for this project, from planning to review. The
relocation of the Short School program has been a priority, the goal being not to interrupt the service
to the families currently attending the program.
Staff knew early on they had very few options for relocating the center while preserving their goal of
maintaining service to the families in the Gerstle Park, Sun Valley, Bret Harte, West End and Picnic
Valley areas.
Staff has completed a thorough review of each phase of the development of the plan. Neighbors,
parents, and community groups have been included in the process. In 18 months, 13 community
meetings were held in order to get input from the public. Many of those meetings produced
recommendations that have been incorporated into the plan before the City Council.
Ms. McCart asked for the Council's approval of the item this evening, in order to maintain their goal of
pouring the foundation for the structure before the rainy season. Delays in that schedule could result
in the delay of the opening of the facility next fall. Ms. McCart then detailed the plan for the City
Council.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 4
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 5
The entire space consists of 8,000 square feet, allowing the licensing ability for 50 children in the
preschool wing and 90 children in the school -aged program. The center is sited on the old playground
at Albert Park. The building is U-shaped and is connected by pathways to all the facilities and events
at the community center, the bocce ball courts, stadium, park, tennis courts and the Wildcare facility.
Parking spaces and bus pads will be located at the front of the site. Staff parking will be located at the
parking lot behind the Albert Park Stadium. Ms. McCart noted that the hours of operation of the child
care center, which are 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., occur when the hours of operation of the stadium and
bocce ball courts are not at full operational status.
The site is accessible through two entrances; one off of Albert Park Drive, the other going through the
covered outdoor activity area. In terms of the layout of the facility, a small reception area is located at
the front of the site, with four offices and a staff workroom adjacent to the reception area. For
security purposes, the offices all feature windows from which individuals can view those entering and
exiting the reception area.
Additionally, a small office has been designed for the program directors of the school age and
preschool programs. The child care supervisor and the bookkeeper will be located in that office as
well. The space will likely be used for other staff members of the Child Care Division and will function
as an administrative hub for the program.
Located beyond the reception area is the preschool ring, which includes a staff support area with a
lockable gate. The space is designed for the preparation of activities and snacks and includes a
storage area. The rest of the preschool ring can be viewed from this area. The preschool ring has
access to the outdoor play area and preschool toilets.
In response to the parents' requests, walled classrooms have been included in the design of the center.
The preschool classrooms include sink and counter spaces, an exit to the playground area, a multitude
of windows, a large window seat and a toilet training area. Also in response to the parents' requests,
the multi-purpose room can be directly accessed from this space. The multi-purpose room, consisting
of 753 square feet, will be a shared space between the preschool and school -aged programs. The
preschoolers will have use of the room until 3:00 p.m., when the school -aged children arrive. Adult
restrooms and a "sick room" are located beyond the multi-purpose room.
Located past the multi-purpose room is the after-school/school-aged space, dedicated to children ages
5 through 12. As with the preschool space, the school -aged space features a teacher support area
with view corridors into every area in the wing. Two "quiet" rooms, equal in space, include sinks and
windows and will be wired for computers and telephones. Staff envisions the spaces being dedicated
to homework, computer work, and quiet games. The wing has an exit out to the school -aged
playground and the covered outdoor area.
The covered outdoor play area, consisting of 2,000 square feet, was an idea generated by parents at
one of the first meetings for the project. The space provides children the opportunity to have physical
activity on days when protection from wind, rain, or extreme heat is needed. The space is a tensile -
covered structure, supported by large columns that create a tent effect.
Ms. McCart then provided the Council with a sample materials board for the project. She noted that
rather than replicating the community center, the materials have been chosen to integrate with the
homes in Gerstle Park.
Ms. McCart next referred the Council to the Albert Park Lane Master Plan, which includes improvements
to Albert Park Lane. The improvements include the following:
1. The reconfiguration of the lawn area between the bocce ball courts and the children's center;
2. The installation of the half -court basketball court;
3. A group picnic area;
4. The terminus of the promenade, which currently stops at the edge of Lonatese Gardens, but per
the Master Plan is slated to terminate at Albert Park Lane.
5. A fountain -like waterplay feature.
Ms. McCart noted that the total outdoor area of the site consists of 9,500 square feet, which meets the
state licensing mandate for outdoor space for the number of children enrolled in the program. The
entire space is fenced with wrought iron, which replicates the fencing material used for the bocce ball
courts and Lonatese Gardens. Landscaping will be placed along the fence.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 5
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 6
Three playground areas are included; two for preschool and one for school -aged children. Each
playground has a separate sand play area and is connected by wide, open concrete pathways ideal for
bike riding and small court games. The following additional elements are planned for the site as well:
• A ball wall
• A small theater
• Picnic benches and tables
• Storage for outdoor play equipment
• Raised -bed planters
The plan allows for the ability through a gating system to close off the facility when the center is
closed. At the same time, the play area can be open to the public on weekends and evenings. The
landscape plan creates screening between the ball field and the play area of the children's center.
Staff will take every precaution to ensure that foul balls from the stadium do not create a hazard for
the children using the outdoor play areas. Ms. McCart pointed out that the use of the baseball field
primarily occurs on evenings and weekends, when the center will be closed.
The Public Works Department has reviewed the plan and determined that there may be some
opportunity to do some improvements that would be beneficial not only to this project, but to all the
elements of the rest of the park. Ms. McCart introduced Andy Preston, Deputy Public Works Director,
to present that plan.
Mr. Preston provided the Council with copies of the plan. He reported that the plan, which currently is
in the preliminary planning stage, could go in concert with the construction of the new child care
center. Two conceptual plans are offered at this time. Mr. Preston noted that Albert Park Lane,
running one way from B Street to Lindaro Street, is a portion of Albert Park rather than a dedicated
City street. Presently, the street has no curb, gutter, sidewalk, or streetlighting. Further, the
pavement condition is rated as less than "10" on the City's pavement rating system, indicating it is of
very poor quality. Currently, the use of the street is primarily for diagonal parking along the north side
of the street. Parking on the street is also for the park, Wildcare Center, and for residential use.
The curb, gutter, and sidewalk improvements for the child care center are included in the budget for
that project. However, the budget includes no improvements to Albert Park Lane whatsoever. Mr.
Preston asked the Council to consider approving new curb, gutter, and sidewalk for the total length of
Albert Park Lane.
Plan number one, at a cost of approximately $250,000, includes improvements on the north side of the
street, including street widening to bring the current parking up to City standards, drainage,
streetlighting, fire hydrants, and pavement widening at the end of the promenade and at the front of
the child care center for parent drop-offs.
Plan number two, which is estimated at $300,000, shows the ultimate design for Albert Park Lane,
which includes improvements to the south side of the street as well. The plan gives a platform on the
south side of the street for buses to disembark children coming to the center. Presently, the
configuration is such that the children would have to disembark the bus into the street and then walk
across the street into the center. The new plan provides a much safer loading and unloading zone for
the children to alight and embark the buses. At the same time, the design provides the opportunity to
narrow the street, add speed humps to the area, and link the center with Mahon Creek, the
promenade, and all the downtown facilities.
Presently, no funds are allocated for these projects. Mr. Preston concluded his comments by reminding
the Council they need not make any decisions this evening regarding these plans, adding that he would
be coming back before the Council at a later date with a far more detailed plan for their consideration.
Ms. McCart concluded her remarks by noting that the total estimated cost for the Parkside Child Care
Center is $2,275,000. This figure was submitted to the City in late June and represents a very
conservative estimate provided by Davis Langdon Adamson Construction Cost Planning and
Management Company. Included in the estimate is a 15 to 25 percent contingency in response to the
current construction and bid climate. $1,550,000 is budgeted through the 1999 Redevelopment
Agency Bonds. A full proposal will come before the Council on August 21s' for the balance of the
funding.
The Council options for the project this evening are to either approve the plan and direct Staff to enter
into the bid process, which will take another 6 to 8 weeks to complete, to direct Staff to modify the
project in some fashion, or to reject the plan in total. Ms. McCart reiterated her request of the Council
to approve the project and authorize Staff to call for bids. She invited the Council's questions.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 6
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 7
Councilmember Heller stated she was unclear as to what improvements are included in the $2,275,000
estimate for the project. Ms. McCart responded that the estimate includes the construction of the
building and the play area, with the improvements immediately in front of the center. The rest of the
improvements mentioned would be budgeted for at another time, unless the Council chooses to
incorporate any of those elements at this time.
Mayor Boro inquired as to how the Council would know exactly what the cost of the project will be
before it goes out to bid.
City Manager Rod Gould explained that the exact cost of the project will not be known at the time of
bid. However, Staff has done their best to get a professional cost estimate, using the Davis Langdon
firm. On August 7t", the Council will receive the Wilson Cornerstone proposal for reuse of the Lindaro
office project. On August 21St, when the budget session is scheduled, the Council will have the
opportunity to take the surplus funds from this year's budget, as well as any additional funds, should
they choose to accept the Wilson Cornerstone proposal, and allocate them for any number of projects.
As the bids will likely not be available by August 21St, the Council may wish to hold up action until firm
bids are received.
Councilmember Phillips asked Staff for a comparison of the new facility's capacity to that of the existing
Short School's. Assistant Community Services Director Bill Scharf responded by explaining that one of
Staff's primary goals was not to reduce the number of children being served currently at Short School.
As such, the capacity is the same as it is at Short School. However, Short School, because it is a larger
building than what is proposed for the new site, could serve a larger number of children.
Councilmember Phillips inquired as to whether any or all of the $2,275,000 estimated to build the site
is a cost that Staff expects to recoup. Ms. McCart stated that the City's current operating budget
allows the City to pay $56,000 per year for the lease of Short School. That money will continue to
accrue, helping the City to pay off any debt associated with this project. She added that the City
routinely raises its fees on an annual basis to meet costs. Currently, cost recovery is at slightly over 90
percent.
Councilmember Phillips asked whether the $2,275,000 for this project falls into that cost recovery
program, and if so, which group would be paying for those costs. Ms. McCart responded that that cost
would be recovered from primarily the families attending the facility. In addition, there are offices and
administration spaces for which the rest of the system will share costs. Councilmember Phillips asked
if, in that case, the current cost of the service would rise. Ms. McCart responded that there would be
no increase in fees that would be out of proportion than what is being charged today.
Mr. Gould offered that he wasn't sure the $2,275,000 cost for the center could be recovered in its
entirety, even with the amortization of the facility over a period of 30 years, without raising the rates
for child care. To the extent that the City can afford to pay for the facility outright, it would allow City
to use the $56,000 annually being paid to the San Rafael School District for either maintenance upkeep
or a sinking fund for replacement of the facility over time. On the other hand, the Council may choose
to add a surcharge to the center to begin to offset the cost of its replacement, offering some type of
scholarship or subsidy for those families for whom paying the fees would be a hardship.
Councilmember Phillips noted the importance of addressing those issues in order to establish a policy
that the Council is comfortable with.
Councilmember Cohen stated his belief that the $56,000 the City is paying to lease Short School would
not serve to recover the cost of the new facility, even over time. Mr. Gould concurred. Councilmember
Cohen stated the issue, then, that the Council should discuss in terms of recovery is that of narrowing
the additional gap of approximately $750,000 and whether or not they want to charge that against a
lease cost or simply invest it in child care without hope of recovery. He then asked if he understood
correctly that the $1,500,000 coming from the Redevelopment Agency is an investment in child care
without plans for recovery. Mr. Gould responded that has been Staff's working assumption.
With respect to the design of the center itself, Councilmember Cohen expressed concern regarding the
security issues attendant with entry gates to the facility when the center is in operation. Ms. McCart
explained that the gates would be lock -secured during the center's hours of operation.
Councilmember Cohen then inquired as to why the school -aged wing consists of less square footage
than the preschool wing. Ms. McCart responded that square footage available in the preschool wing is
equivalent to 130 percent of the state -mandated space for preschools. The school -aged program
meets the square footage of their dedicated space, as well as the multi -use room, in order to meet
their state licensing requirement.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 7
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 7/17/2000 Page 8
David Ross, project architect, offered that in designing the project and its siting, their goal was to
create a variety of outdoor spaces associated with the park. Completing the U -shape design of the
structure would have limited the views and connection to the park.
Councilmember Cohen next asked if the plan provided to the Council labeled "Conceptual Plan"
indicating two handicapped spaces and a curb cut are still planned for the project. Ms. McCart
explained the plan would include the handicapped spaces, and the reconfiguration of the limited -time
parking spaces at the front of the center. In addition, three streetlights will also be located in the area.
Further, an asphalt bus pad is planned for the opposite side of the street. Councilmember Cohen
remarked that those improvements are not clear on the plans.
In terms of program capacity, Councilmember Cohen stated that while the proposal meets or exceeds
state mandated requirements for square footage and enrollment, it is a smaller site than what currently
exists. Ms. McCart noted that Short School consists of slightly less than 10,000 square feet of interior
space, while the new plan includes 8,000 square feet of interior space, with the addition of the 2,000
square -foot covered area. While the new center is no doubt smaller, it is designed for child care; thus,
the spaces are used more efficiently. Councilmember Cohen asked what Short School's square footage
includes. Ms. McCart responded that 10,000 square feet includes all of the interior space.
Councilmember Cohen then asked if the Headstart building is included in that square footage. Ms.
McCart stated she was unclear as to whether that building was included or not, adding that she was
given the figure of 10,000 square feet from the School District.
Councilmember Cohen asked Ms. McCart to estimate the square footage of the exterior space of both
facilities. Ms. McCart calculated the exterior square footage of the Parkside plan at 9,500 square feet.
Mr. Scharf interjected that the Short School exterior footage is at least twice as large. Councilmember
Cohen asked Staff if they envision conducting supervised activities in the park with the children. Ms.
McCart stated that was correct, adding that they plan to take full advantage of as many programs
occurring at the park as are appropriate for the children.
Councilmember Miller asked Staff to elaborate as to their siting of the center. Ms. McCart explained
that the center was sited in its location with the thought in mind that that is an area that needs
refurbishing and is easily bordered by the knoll that leads into the side entrance into the stadium.
Further, the Park and Recreation Commission was very cautious about the fact that over the last five to
six years, the City has taken larger pieces of the park, thereby shrinking the available public use area
to the extent the chosen site was logically the boundary to designate for the center. To reorient the
site or push it out to either side would severely impact the life of the park and its existing facilities.
Councilmember Miller asked how the entrance of the center would be monitored in terms of security.
Ms. McCart responded that members of the public would only be allowed access through the entrance
at Albert Park Lane. The two access gates into the park will be springlocked continually during all
hours of operation. Further, a landscape buffer will be added around the fence to prevent anyone from
being able to reach in through to the other side.
Councilmember Cohen stated his understanding that the $2,275,000 for the project does not include
any land costs. Ms. McCart stated that was correct. Councilmember Cohen then asked Staff to
comment on the relative costs of remodeling an existing structure as compared to building a new one.
Mr. Ross stated that while he was not a cost estimator, his belief is that the scope of work involved in
the reconfiguration and code upgrades to an existing building are substantial. For instance, at Short
School, not only is the building in extremely poor physical shape, it is also out of code compliance,
lacking legal exits, panic hardware, and so forth. Addressing the accessibility requirements alone
would likely cost $150,000 to $200,000.
Mayor Boro invited public comment on the item, requesting that speakers limit their comments to three
to five minutes.
Melanie Hakin, Gerstle Park resident, and board member of the Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association,
noted she has two children, both of whom have attended the Short School program. She commented
that one of the reasons she moved to the area was for her children to be able to attend the Short
School program. Ms. Hakin characterized the program as being of the highest quality, adding that in
the eight years her children have attended the program, there has been virtually no staff turnover.
She noted that currently, a 200 -child waiting list exists for the program. She commended the City for
recognizing the school's value by supporting its continuation.
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Ms. Hakin expressed concern that the current design has not completely incorporated Staff's
knowledge and input in terms of the amount of space planned for the program and how that space is
allocated. In that regard, of particular concern to the parents has been the design element that
necessitates accessing two of the classrooms by going through another classroom. Also of concern to
the parents is the fact that no central common area such as the existing Short School pod has been
designed for the new facility. Ms. Hakin noted that the parents have requested that an early childhood
education expert be employed to design the space planning; however, that has apparently not been
done to the degree that the Staff would have liked.
In terms of the square footage for the project, Ms. Hakin stated her belief that there is a bigger
disparity than has been mentioned in terms of the amount of space the new project will have
compared to the existing center. She stated she would hate to see the program impacted in that way.
Lisa Canin, program parent, stated her belief that the Short School program is the most she has ever
seen. She commended the City's investment in child care. She also commended the Park and
Recreation Department for sacrificing some of their land for the project. She stated she was astounded
as to the lack of disregard for user input into this program. She took issue with Staff's assertion that
the San Rafael Community Services has made an effort to seek adequate parent and Staff input in the
development of the plan. In addition, she challenged the veracity of Staff's statement that the
proposal represents no reduction in preschool capacity.
Regarding the first assertion, Ms. Canin stated that until the plan was fully developed, there was
notification of only one public meeting that was billed as a community response. From the parents'
perspective, the notice gave the indication that Gerstle Park residents' input was being solicited. Only
after the plan was fully developed and posted was there a parent response and a demand for input and
meetings. That was the point at which the parents first realized the space of the pre -K program would
be significantly cut.
Ms. Canin asked the Council to request documentation of the invitation to parents and Staff to be
involved in the planning of the project.
In terms of the second assertion regarding capacity, Ms. Canin noted that the current program has the
capacity to grow from 60 to 90 preschool children. The proposed space limits that enrollment to 60.
While it is clear that a very long waiting list exists for the preschool enrollment, she stated she was not
aware how large the list is for the after-school program, if one exists at all. Accordingly, she urged the
Council to fully understand the rationale for cutting the preschool capacity while preserving the full,
after school capacity. She also asked if any community research had been done to verify that the need
for after school space is as great as preschool space. She stated that the proposal represents a fatally
flawed compromise, not particularly good for anyone.
Regarding Ms. McCart's reference to the Pickleweed Community Center, Ms. Canin noted that just this
week, the IndependentJourna/published an article highlighting the attempt they have made in
expanding their services to poll users as to their desires for the center. She stated that as far as she
could tell, that has not been done in this case.
Arlette Cohen, San Rafael citizen and Short School parent, stated her discontent with what she
characterized as a non -collaborative process that has culminated to this point this evening, where the
Council sits ready to rubber stamp a $2,300,000 (project) that has tremendous opposition from many
corridors. She stated the process has moved through the development process without community
input and involvement and against the best public interest. Further, it has been riddled with flaws and
improprieties.
Ms. Cohen remarked that two years ago, when the concept for the relocation of Short School was first
introduced, Community Services neglected the most important step in any successful project; they
failed to survey the wants and needs of the parents, staff, and community. In addition, they failed to
aggressively seek the involvement of those stakeholders with the goal of creating a collaborative
process.
Ms. Cohen also remarked that the site selection meetings were held last summer, at a time period
when the School District was learning that elementary school enrollment was not increasing, as had
been anticipated. As such, Short School would not be reopened as a public school, and the School
District is still uncertain of the site's future.
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Mayor Boro took issue with that statement, noting that the Council has a letter from the District
indicating they would be reopening the school. The letter specifically indicates the District will be using
the facility for school purposes, whether that be for a school or administrative offices. He suggested
Ms. Cohen go directly to the School Board if she cared to debate the issue.
Ms. Cohen responded that the School Superintendent indicated as much through their communications.
Councilmember Cohen reiterated that the Council has received a letter from Superintendent Barbara
Smith, dated July 13th, 2000, indicating the District fully intends to use the site and expects the center
to vacate come September 2001. He suggested to Ms. Cohen that if she was implying Ms. Smith told
her something other than what she told the Council, then Ms. Cohen is accusing someone of lying. He
asked Ms. Cohen to be more explicit regarding her statement.
Ms. Cohen responded she is not accusing anyone of lying. She stated her understanding that a
member of their group corresponded with Superintendent Smith by e-mail, and was told precisely what
she just stated.
Continuing, Ms. Cohen remarked that Community Services did not share the information with the public
that Short School would not be reopened as a school, adding that they held to their marketing
message that they were being evicted from the site. She cited what she characterized as a history of
conflict and antagonism between Community Services and the School District, asking why two public
agencies could not sit down and work together with the parents and the community to determine the
best use for the property.
Ms. Cohen continued, remarking that while the process for the project was taking place, the parents
and community were left in the dark, having had no access to reports, public notices, or updates.
Finally, on March 8th, at the initiation of parents, a very disappointing meeting was held at Short
School. Confusion was the order of the day. When asked about the size of the proposed preschool
compared to the size of the existing space, Community Services said they did not know what the space
comparison was. They indicated to the parents that their intent was not to replicate the Short School
program, a concept the parents could not comprehend.
Ms. Cohen stated that near the beginning of the March 8th meeting, Ms. McCart stated the project
would go before the Planning Commission for approval in a few weeks. However, at that same
meeting, when the parents asked for the exact date the Commission would hear the project, Ms.
McCart admitted the Commission would hear the project on March 14th. Ms. Cohen noted that
although the City had the plans drawn for six months, the first time they met with their constituents
was six days before it was to before the Planning Commission, and then, only at the instigation of the
Planning Commission.
Ms. Cohen next brought to the attention of the Council that in March, when the parents' organization
prepared literature regarding the project and placed it in the parents""red folders" at the school,
Community Services removed the literature from the folders. They were prohibited from using the
folders or bulletin board for communications of any kind. Further, when the group formed a
community task force of five parents to address their concerns, Community Services worked very hard
to minimize their participation, trying to reduce their number of representatives to two members from
five.
At the March 14th Planning Commission meeting, there was lengthy and unexpected comment on the
Parkside project. Discussion of the project continued for at least an hour and a half, while the
Commission stated at the outset of the hearing they expected it would be over in twenty minutes. Ms.
Cohen stated that during a recess, two members of their group overheard the Commissioners
discussing their vote in the hallway. They then informed her that the Commission was about to vote to
approve the project. Stating her belief that such activities constitute a violation of the Brown Act, she
insisted the Council reject the project on that basis alone.
Ms. Cohen then stated that at the Park and Recreation Commission meeting on May 20th, one of the
Commissioners dismissed the parents' concerns by stating the following: "What do parents know about
quality child care? They just drop their kids off in the morning and pick them up at night".
Mayor Boro asked Ms. Cohen to conclude her comments.
Ms. Cohen continued, bringing next to the attention of the Council that with the exception of the
Planning Commission, no minutes were taken at any of the public meetings for this issue. On March
27th, Ms. McCart introduced someone whom she indicated would be "recording" the meeting. In fact,
the meeting was not recorded, and no one in an official capacity took minutes. Nor did anyone take
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minutes at the Park and Recreation Commission meetings of April 201h and May 18th, although there is
a document entitled "Minutes" from the City's web site from the April 201h meeting. She stated that
without formal minutes, there is no accountability.
Ms. Cohen stated that those who have been concerned about the project have been threatened on
several occasions with closure of the preschool if they did not go along with the plans. From the
outset, the parents had every intention of partnering with the City in the spirit of cooperation. But,
from the outset, the proponents have adopted a bunker mentality that has precluded that partnership
from occurring.
Concluding her comments, Ms. Cohen stated the parents' group feels they have been ignored,
excluded, deceived and dismissed. While they are both the employers and the customers of
Community Services, they have been treated like a petty annoyance. They have tried to work with the
City in good faith to preserve an extraordinarily wonderful preschool that stands out like a diamond in
the world of child care. She urged the Council to do the right thing and vote "No" on the resolution in
order that the City and the community can work together on a project that would make everyone
proud.
Councilmember Phillips noted his understanding of Superintendent Smith's letter indicates that by fall
of 2001, the City is to be no longer utilizing the Short School facility. He asked Ms. Cohen what she
proposed to do with the 150 children when fall of 2001 comes, and no facility is available.
Ms. Cohen responded that at this point, they are a day late and a dollar short. Councilmember Phillips
stated that his job is to deal with the issues at hand, not the issues of the past. He reiterated his
question, asking Ms. Cohen if she would accept her own recommendation, knowing that the children
would be displaced from the facility, were she sitting at the dais. Ms. Cohen asked Councilmember
Phillips if he would be willing to write a letter to the School District, asking them to extend the lease for
an additional year so that the parents and the City could collaborate. Councilmember Phillips stated
Ms. Cohen was asking a question that is contrary to the District's long-term plans.
City Manager Gould interjected that he indeed asked the District that very question, to which they
responded they would not be willing to extend the lease. Councilmember Phillips remarked that if the
City is going to accommodate the children, they must make plans in an appropriate and timely fashion
to accomplish that goal. He stated he would welcome any other suggestions from the public as to how
they could address the situation. Ms. Cohen thanked the Council for their commitment to child care.
She added that the parents' group has tried very hard to work with Community Services to find a
solution to their decision to cut the size of the preschool essentially in half.
Mayor Boro informed Ms. Cohen she was incorrect in stating that the size of the school would be cut in
half. He pointed out that the current size of the preschool is 50, and the new facility will accommodate
50. He referred Ms. Cohen to the staff report, which indicates that a current survey shows preschool
supply is currently met throughout Marin County. Ms. Cohen clarified she was speaking of the square
footage being cut in half, not the enrollment. She stated her understanding that the school is currently
licensed for 75 children.
Councilmember Cohen took issue with Ms. Cohen's statement that the Council would be rubber-
stamping the project. In fact, the Council requested this issue be brought forth and the public be
invited to hear all the issues. He then stated his concerns for Ms. Cohen's feeling regarding the
process for the project, adding that clearly, the Council needs to learn from that and improve the
process in the future. However, at this point in time, nothing can be done to go back and change it.
What they can do is decide if this is the right decision, and if not, identify the alternatives.
Councilmember Cohen reiterated the Council's clear understanding that as regards Short School, there
are no options for staying at the site. The School District absolutely intends to take the site back in
September 2001 for their purposes. He suggested that if Ms. Cohen has information to the contrary, or
if she feels that by going to the School Board directly, she can get the District to change their minds,
he would like to hear that. However, the Council's decision this evening could not be based on
information that somebody received an e-mail indicating information contrary to their letter from
Superintendent Smith. He invited the individual who received the e-mail to address the Council.
Councilmember Cohen stated that at this point, the discussion should be not about the process, but the
alternatives. He asked Ms. Cohen if she was suggesting the site be abandoned in order to seek some
other property to acquire and convert into a child care site. Ms. Cohen stated her preference to site
the center in a neighborhood as opposed to a park. She remarked that had the parents been involved
from the outset, they could have worked on fundraising, private donations, partnerships, and so forth,
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in order to have added a second story onto the building. She stated her understanding that the reason
a second story is not being considered is due to budget constraints.
Mayor Boro reiterated Councilmember Phillips' question as to what Ms. Cohen would have the Council
do at this point. Ms. Cohen suggested the Council put the project on hold for a year until a workable
solution is identified. Mayor Boro asked Ms. Cohen what she proposed to do with the children in the
meantime. Ms. Cohen stated perhaps the project could be put on hold for less than a year, during
which time the parents and the District could confer.
Mayor Boro understood that those meetings have occurred, and modifications have been made as a
result of those meetings. He further understood that the parents essentially have two contentions,
first, that the building is not large enough, and second, that the layout is not proper. Ms. Cohen stated
that what the Council has not yet heard are their traffic and parking concerns. She added she was not
prepared to address those issues at this time.
Councilmember Cohen asked Ms. Cohen to clarify her allegation that members of the Planning
Commission violated the Brown Act. He stated his strong opinion that it was wholly inappropriate for
Ms. Cohen to make such an allegation without qualifying it. He asked her to state specifically which
individuals heard which Commissioners violating the Brown Act by discussing their vote somewhere
other than at the dais. Ms. Cohen stated she could not identify those individuals.
Councilmember Cohen cautioned Ms. Cohen not to make such serious charges unless she could qualify
them, adding that no one deserves to be treated in that manner. He stated that a couple of members
of the Planning Commission discussing the item between themselves during a break does not
necessarily constitute a violation of the Brown Act.
Ms. Cohen stated that the individual who gave her that information was not present at this meeting.
As such, she did not feel comfortable identifying that person.
Mayor Boro reiterated Councilmember Cohen's position that if Ms. Cohen is going to make accusations
as serious as those she just made, she had better have facts rather than speculation to back them up.
The Council can only deal with facts. Ms. Cohen defended her statement, stating that it is her opinion
that based on such 'antics", the Council should not approve the project. She offered to put the Council
in touch with the individuals that overheard the Commissioners' discussion. Councilmember Cohen
heartily accepted Ms. Cohen's offer.
Before hearing comments from the next speaker, Mayor Boro advised the public to comment only on
issues that have not been discussed.
Beth Levison, San Rafael resident and Short School program parent, echoed many of the comments of
some of the earlier speakers. She stated her primary concern was that of limited space for the project.
She suggested the Council consider allocating a larger piece of land at the site.
Ruth Nelson, teacher and parent of a former Short School child care program attendee, addressed the
traffic issues regarding the project. She noted that she, as well as Whistlestop Wheels drivers are
using Albert Park Lane far more now than they did two years ago. The lane is used to access Davidson
Middle School for various sporting activities, as well as to avoid the Second Street congestion between
B and A Streets.
With regard to the design of the project, Ms. Nelson noted that one of the major issues discussed at
the parent meetings involved the promenade in that the building must allow for its extension to the
creek.
Lisa Canin re -addressed the Council, urging the Council to exhaust all possibilities for on-site child care
for after school children. She remarked that she has not heard discussion as to how extensive that
search has been.
Mayor Boro asked Ms. McCart to address that point after the public comment period concludes.
Nicole Taylor, Short School program parent, stated she was present to speak for many of the parents
with her concern for the configuration of the site. Specifically, the parents are concerned about the
impact of having to access one classroom by walking through another, as is currently designed. She
strongly urged the Council to consider consulting with an expert who specializes in preschool space
design.
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While she is very excited about the possibility of having a beautiful new center, she had a concern that
there literally was no additional square footage to allot towards growing enrollment. She urged the
Council to balance that fact against the City's desire to attract top quality companies who may well
have employees with children in need of quality child care. She also asked the Council to take into
account that mandatory preschool may be on the horizon, and how that might impact this facility.
There being no further comments from the audience, Mayor Boro thanked the audience for their
comments and closed the public hearing. He then asked Ms. McCart to address Ms. Canin's question
regarding whether or not the City has exhausted all possibilities for on-site child care for after school
children.
Ms. McCart stated that Staff did exhaust that issue. They investigated locating a unit somewhere on
the Sun Valley campus; however, there is virtually no space for additions or modules that could
facilitate on-site after school care. The program would have to be reduced by one-half if the children
were to be in a modular unit.
In addition, square footage for multi -use space is included in calculating square footage to meet
licensing requirements. The Sun Valley campus does not have such a multi -use room. Therefore, even
less than half of the children would have been able to be served, had the campus had space for the
children. Ms. McCart noted that the school is currently developing their long-range planning for the
campus. Conversations with two of the school's principals have revealed they are reluctant to even
consider such an arrangement until they have their complete campus plan in place. As such, she was
not optimistic that there would be room on the campus.
Mayor Boro noted that one of Staff's goals was to find a location as close as possible to the existing
location in order to meet the neighborhood's needs. Accordingly, considering locations such as
Coleman or San Pedro Schools did not make sense. Ms. McCart stated that was correct. Coleman
School currently operates a center that is operating at capacity.
Mayor Boro asked Staff to comment on the last speaker's suggestion to utilize an expert in preschool
spaces to design that portion of the site. Ms. McCart explained that the firm of BSA Architects was
selected because of their experience in designing child care facilities. Further, Staff has been fully
involved in the process. Ms. McCart noted that in counting the number of years that Staff has had
collectively in child care service, that number is close to 90 years combined experience on the project
team itself. Ms. McCart also noted that in speaking with the parent group, Staff did offer to engage a
consultant to assist in transitioning the Staff from the current site to the new site.
Mayor Boro asked Ms. McCart to comment on the point raised by Ms. Taylor concerning mandatory
preschool. Ms. McCart responded that is a school issue that would not affect their preschool programs.
For the benefit of the public, Mayor Boro stated that the reason the Council asked this item be brought
before them is that the Council is, in fact, undertaking this expenditure and effort. The City has
worked very hard to enhance the salaries and benefits of their preschool teachers because they value
them. At the same time, it is not a given that the City should be expected to come forward and spend
two and a half million dollars to run a program. He noted that no other city in the county is
undertaking such a project. He asked the public to bear that fact in mind rather than 'beat up" on this
agency.
Mayor Boro stated his personal belief that they could not build a child care large enough to
accommodate the City's future needs; rather, they can build what they can afford and accommodate.
The public should also keep in mind that the public park has other users and citizens' needs. This
project, although it will certainly benefit the park, will impact it as well.
Councilmember Heller interjected that in April, she attended a parents' meeting, where it was
announced that the School District would be taking Short School back at a certain date. At that point,
the parents were aware that Short School was not an option for the City to continue to consider.
Councilmember Heller asked Staff if her understanding was correct that there are a great many more
slots for preschool in the community, not San Rafael's program, than is needed. She remarked that
the condition of the Sun Valley campus is disgraceful, adding that she was embarrassed for Marin that
the schools have deteriorated to this extent.
Councilmember Heller then remarked that if preschool becomes mandatory, she would suggest
converting the proposed child care facility to a complete after school facility. She asked Staff how easy
of a transformation that would be to accomplish.
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With reference to Councilmember Heller's point regarding the need for preschool care as compared to
after school care, Ms. McCart noted that the Marin Child Care Commission surveys on an annual basis
the community needs and the capacity to meet that need in both preschool and after school care. The
1999 report indicates that in San Rafael, the City and the private operators are meeting 50 percent of
the need for after school care for elementary aged children. At this time, there is enough capacity to
meet the need for preschool.
Regarding Councilmember Heller's point concerning the possibility of converting the proposed center to
a complete after school facility, Mr. Ross explained that buildings designed for one specific application
are doomed for failure within five years. A building must be designed to be flexible, as the uses for the
building will necessarily change over time. This building is designed for lifetime use in that the trusses
are clear, spanning across both main wings and that all the partitions are flexible and can be torn down
and/or reconfigured without tearing into the structure of the building.
Councilmember Phillips complimented Staff for bringing the proposal to the Council and the public,
adding that clearly, much thought and effort have gone into a difficult subject. He asked Staff to
comment on Ms. Taylor's point regarding balancing the City's desire to attract quality companies with
their desire to maintain adequate capacity for a quality child care program.
Ms. McCart responded Staff did consider expansion as regards this site. Unfortunately, this site does
not allow for expansion without reducing or omitting one program or another. Staff feels fortunate
that they were able to find a site within the neighborhood they are serving. Other than the school site,
Albert Park was the only location that Staff considered seriously, as there were literally no other
vacant, publicly owned, or convertible areas that could be considered feasible for a child care center in
the area. Staff therefore felt they were accomplishing their goal by meeting their current enrollment
needs, recognizing the fact they would not be able to expand on the site.
With regard to the concern by the parents of the space planning in the preschool wing, Councilmember
Phillips asked Staff if they perceived the same problem. Mr. Ross stated that one of the issues that
needs to be considered in looking at the square footage available for the preschool in the morning
during the drop-off scenario, is that in addition to their own space, they have use of the multi-purpose
room. In addition, the preschoolers have use of a classroom directly opposite the courtyard that can
be separated and closed off from any after school children present.
In effect, the preschoolers have five rooms that can be used in the morning during drop off. Currently,
the Short School program does not offer any separation between the rooms and has concurrent circle
times, a quiet time for the children. Mr. Ross pointed out that in a new building, the program should
be tailored to suit the building. With five spaces available, there are ample ways to mitigate that
concern. Mr. Ross added that many modifications have been made to the program to mitigate
"crunch -time" concerns.
Councilmember Phillips asked Staff if the community would agree or disagree that Staff has considered
many of the issues brought before the Council this evening. Mr. Ross stated his belief that the points
raised by the parent groups have been listened to and addressed; however, the groups may feel that
those issues were not listened to or addressed in the manner that they would have preferred. Staff
feels that they have taken into account every issue that has come up. As a design team, they have
addressed all the challenges. As the parent group became more involved, they gave them more
challenges. Many of the modifications made to the project were a direct result of the parents' input.
Councilmember Phillips stated that every effort should be made between Staff and the parent group to
keep an open dialogue regarding the issues that can be incorporated for the betterment of the
program. Mr. Ross commented that the process effectively never stops, continuing on and on as the
building grows with the program.
Councilmember Phillips apologized for any deficiencies in the process for this project, but added he did
not appreciate getting beat up over the issue. He stated he had every confidence that ultimately, the
City and the community will end up with a project they can be proud of. He thanked Staff and the
community for their involvement.
Councilmember Cohen remarked that it appears through the implications of the speakers this evening
that there are Staff members who are not satisfied with the process for this project. He asked Ms.
McCart to comment on that issue. Ms. McCart responded that Staff has been involved at all levels of
the project from the inception of the conceptual design phase that began early last October. Staff has
been involved in all phases of the program, program director, teacher, and instructor level. The project
has been the topic at all Staff meetings including both the child care staff and management staff. The
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program directors were requested to take the information distilled at those meetings back to their
staffs in order to keep them fully informed as to how the project was developing.
Ms. McCart also noted that at least three different meetings including teachers and instructors were
held in order to get their input. Further, the different phases of the designs were routinely posted at
the centers so that Staff understood how the project was progressing. Ms. McCart referred the Council
to a list of identified priorities, both of which came from the preschool and school -aged Staff.
At each of the six meetings Staff conducted with the parents beginning last March, they discovered
elements for incorporation into the plan. Ultimately, at least 15 items from their request list were
added as final elements of the plan. Those elements include the following:
• Restrooms were moved
• Exterior doors, sinks and counters were added
• The proposed half walls were replaced by four walls
• Laundry and kitchen facilities were included
• Extra space for storage was created
• Wiring for computers and phones was added
• Additional carpeted areas and water fountains were included
• A plan for entrance management was developed
• Several accesses to the restrooms were designed
Ms. McCart stated her strong belief that they have done everything in their power to include Staff and
the community in the process. The conclusion to that process was reached in May, when they
reviewed six separate floor plans prepared by an architect and presented by the parent group.
Although they spent a considerable amount of time reviewing those plans one evening, they were
unfortunately not able to come up with a configuration that allowed them to maintain flexibility and the
numbers relative to enrollment. At that point, they proceeded with the design development.
Councilmember Cohen pointed out that at a minimum, the City is being asked to spend $1,500,000 it
could spend on a variety of other projects throughout the City that have great need as well. Further,
the money is being invested in a facility that has no room for expansion. He asked Staff for their view
as to how seriously the Council should take that issue into consideration.
City Manager Gould explained that the City's immediate goal, when they learned that Short School
would no longer be available to them, was to replace the program. Staff's belief is that this project
accomplishes that goal. Although the space delegated to the preschool program is smaller than the
current program, it is better configured, up to code, and will be more functional.
In terms of the expansion issue, Mr. Gould pointed out that both the Park and Recreation Commission
and the Planning Commission insisted that that amount of space and no more be delegated in Albert
Park for this specific purpose. He further pointed out that $2,275,000 to $2,500,000 would build an
expansion or annex to the library, build an additional police facility, eliminating the current situation of
having to lease space for the Police Department. The money would also pay for a tremendous amount
of street re -paving and storm drainage work. Mr. Gould remarked that if, indeed, this facility goes
forward with the completely unexpected expense in the range of $2,275,000, it would be a testament
to this Council and City's ongoing commitment to child care. Lastly, he noted that no one is rushing to
the aid of the three non-profit or for profit child care centers in Marin that are being pushed out of their
current locations. He stated that what the City Council is being asked to do this evening is "truly
extraordinary".
Councilmember Cohen noted another comment heard this evening was that it was a shame a larger
piece of land could not have been identified. He stated he could not think of a larger piece of land that
is either in public hands or available and affordable, layered on top of the cost that the City is being
asked to bear to build the facility. He asked if he was correct in assuming that Staff surveyed what
properties might be available. Ms. McCart stated that was correct.
Councilmember Cohen stated that with respect to traffic, he recommended, given the Council approves
the project, that some of the elements from the Public Works plan, such as the speed bumps and the
bus pad, be implemented along with the project. He requested Mr. Preston post a "No Commercial
Traffic" sign at Albert Park Lane to deter commercial vehicles such as Whistlestop Wheels from
diverting through the area.
Ms. McCart interjected that Ms. Nelson is correct in that the use of Albert Park Lane has changed
dramatically in the last two to three years. Currently, the parking is primarily commuter parking, those
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individuals who are parking in the area and walking into town. The situation will, of course, need to
change once the new use is introduced into the park.
Councilmember Cohen noted he has two daughters who attended both the pre- and after school care
programs at Short School. He stated his opinion that he was not personally happy with the
configuration of the site at Short School. He noted that one of the reasons he vigorously pursued the
School District issue is that he would personally prefer to have the program held at Short School, if that
situation were available. He pointed out that a great deal of the Albert Park Master Plan will be given
up to build the proposed property. However, he has to operate under the assumption that the District
plans to use the site.
With respect to the remark that the City needs to do more to attract quality businesses to San Rafael,
Councilmember Cohen stated that while that may be a valid comment, in addition to the list of items
Mr. Gould identified as acknowledged needs in the City, the $1,500,000 could go a long way toward
meeting unmet needs in the Canal community at Pickleweed Community Center, where there are
people who have some very real needs. He stated he could not support the argument that the City
should spend more money in the hopes it will attract more "dot commers", when there are other crying
needs in the community that they struggle to meet.
Ms. Hakin interjected from the audience that the Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association has been
concerned about the use of the facility and has tried to communicate with the School District to find
out what is planned for that site.
Mayor Boro responded that the Council has the same concern and is on record with them that they
believe the site will always be used for a school -related use.
Mayor Boro noted that Councilmember Phillips was a member of the Dixie School Board at the time
they both served on the Child Care Council in '88 or '89, the first time he had exposure to child care in
San Rafael. As a result of that experience, the value of child care in the City soon became very evident
to him. He then asked the Council for action on the item.
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Heller seconded, to adopt the resolution approving
the call for bids for the Parkside Child Care Center.
RESOLUTION NO. 10681 - RESOLUTION APPROVING TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR THE PARKSIDE
CHILD CARE CENTER
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Before hearing the next item, Councilmember Cohen suggested, given the level of concern involved in
the project, that the Council could perhaps communicate with the School Board to verify their
intentions for Short School.
Mr. Gould noted that the only level of discourse the City has had directly with members of the School
Board has been at the quarterly City/School Breakfasts. At the March breakfast, with Mayor Boro and
Councilmember Phillips in attendance, this issue came up. The Superintendent reiterated her position
in front of two members of her board. Neither board member contradicted her and seemed to nod in
agreement. Mr. Gould stated he took that as further evidence that the District is resolved to reuse the
school in the fall of 2001.
The next breakfast meeting will be held in September, which provides the Council another opportunity
to talk directly to their counterparts at the School District Board. He asked the Council if they wished
to have the item agendized at a future School Board meeting to pose the question. Mayor Boro stated
he thought it might be appropriate to write a letter to the School Board President, recapping the
actions of the Council, and requesting confirmation of the School Board's intent to use the school for a
school -related use.
Councilmember Cohen remarked he would have a much higher level of comfort if he knew and
understood that the School District had a long-term plan for the site and could tell the Council what it
was.
Mayor Boro thanked Staff and the public for their participation on the item. He then called for a five-
minute break.
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(A five-minute recess was taken.)
Mayor Boro called the meeting back to order, and requested to hear Item 15 next, "Consideration and
Approval of City Manager's Compensation".
NEW BUSINESS:
15. CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF CITY MANAGER'S COMPENSATION — File 9-3-11 x 7-3
(Taken out of order)
Mayor Boro noted Councilmembers Cohen and Phillips served as a subcommittee of the Council
regarding this item. He asked for a recommendation from the subcommittee.
Councilmember Cohen reported that he and Councilmember Phillips were charged by the Council to
review the City Manager's compensation. The subcommittee discussed a number of issues, one of
which was to review the City Manager's salary relative to other city managers, particularly in
communities in Marin County. To that end, they requested a salary survey of other city managers.
They were also concerned with the issue of compaction between the City Manager and other
department heads, several of whom are near the top of the salary range. In addition, their intent was
to get a sense of the market. Because there are not many comparables to San Rafael within Marin
County, they wanted to ensure they were fairly compensating the Manager for the challenges and
complexities of running a City this size.
Taking into account the compaction issue coupled with the need to continue to offer a competitive
salary and benefits for the outstanding work the Manager has done on behalf of the community, the
subcommittee felt that the City Manager merits an increase above and beyond the 3.3 percent
standard pro forma approach.
Currently, the differential is at 13.8. Although it is somewhat arbitrary, the subcommittee did discuss
moving the differential to 15 percent, given the Manager's scope of responsibility and authority and
responsibility he is given by the press, public and Council.
The subcommittee discussed setting the figure as a two-year goal; however, as the City Manager has
saved the City millions and, in fact, earned the City millions in recent negotiations, they felt that made
no sense. Councilmember Cohen recommended approval of a 4.4 percent increase, or a salary
increase of $477 per month on top of the current monthly salary of $10,920, for a total monthly salary
of $11,397.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to increase the City Manager's
salary by the amount of $477 per month, for a total monthly salary of $11,397 per month. The
pension contribution will increase, as it is based on a percentage. However, all other items are fixed.
Before voting on the motion, Councilmember Phillips underscored the pleasure the City has expressed
with regard to Mr. Gould's performance. He remarked that in the view of many, there is no
comparison to the outstanding job Mr. Gould has consistently performed for the City. He noted the
salary increase puts Mr. Gould at the top of the Marin County City Managers' salaries, which is more
than justified given Mr. Gould's performance and the complexities of San Rafael versus any other City
in Marin County. The Council collectively echoed those sentiments.
The Council unanimously approved the motion, without a roll call vote.
As part of the annual adjustment to compensation, Councilmember Phillips noted the annual City
Manager's bonus, also for consideration.
Councilmember Phillips moved, and Councilmember Cohen seconded, that the Council grant the City
Manager a performance bonus in the amount of $5,000, which represents the top end of the
performance bonus.
The Council unanimously approved the motion, without a roll call vote.
Councilmember Cohen remarked that it is clear that the Council and the community are extremely
impressed with Mr. Gould's performance.
Mayor Boro echoed those sentiments.
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Mr. Gould stated he deeply appreciates the Council's continued trust and confidence, adding that there
isn't another city manager in California that serves such a fine Council.
14. ABAG HOUSING NUMBERS FOR SAN RAFAEL (CD) — File 111 x 13-16 x 115
Robert Brown, Community Development Director, noted that this item points out the importance of St.
Vincent's/Silveira in trying to achieve the upper end of those housing ranges. In addition, regarding
the issue of affordability, the City is going to have to be very creative in their Housing Element. Staff
will be looking for best practices in all the other Bay Area cities. Further, a forum of non-profit housing
developers will be convened in order to flush out ideas.
Lastly, they can respond to ABAG, if they so choose, by August 31St. At a dinner he and Mr. Gould
attended last week with Gary Binger, ABAG's Planning Director, Mr. Binger indicated the City "keep up
their good efforts".
Mayor Boro thanked Mr. Brown for his report and invited the public to take a tour of the Community
Development Department on the third floor, where renovations are underway.
16. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT:
None.
17. COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS:
a. Re: SCHOOL VOUCHER CAMPAIGN — File 116 x 9-1
Councilmember Heller reported she attended a meeting last week at the CTA office
concerning the voucher campaign, or Proposition 38. She requested the Council take a
close look at the proposition when they discuss legislation.
There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 11:10 PM.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF , 2000
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
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