HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPJTCCCOM Minutes 2000-05-03MARIN COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS — San Rafael CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL JOINT WORKSHOP/MEETING
Board Chambers, Room 4330
San Rafael, California
May 3, 2000, 7:00 p.m.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS PRESENT:
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS ABSENT
CITY COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT
CITY COUNCILMEMBERS ABSENT:
Steve Kinsey, President
Cynthia Murray
Annette Rose
John Kress
Hal Brown
Al Boro, Mayor
Barbara Heller
Paul Cohen
Cyr Miller
Gary Phillips
None
RE: ST. VINCENT'S/SILVEIRA TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS (CD) —
File 9-2-45 x 10-2
Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Kinsey.
Pledge of Allegiance
Opening Remarks
Co -Chairs Kress and Boro thanked members of the St. Vincent's/Silveira Task Force,
acknowledging not only the time and dedication they have contributed for approximately
two years, but their willingness to discuss and work out different points of view and
interests. Certificates of Appreciation were presented to members of the Task Force
representing environmental, housing, neighborhood, and business organizations, as well
as the League of Women Voters, the property owners, and the community at large.
President Kinsey also acknowledged the time and effort contributed not only by task
force members, but also by staff from both the County and City of San Rafael.
Gary Ragghianti, City of San Rafael Attorney, clarified that the sole purpose of this
meeting was simply to receive and accept the report of the task force and acknowledge
their participation, and not to take any action on land use designations. County Counsel
Patrick Faulkner concurred, further clarifying that no action that would have immediate
legal effect on the subject properties will be taken at this meeting.
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Marin County Community Development Agency Director Alex Hinds summarized the
background history, the Memorandum of Understanding adopted in June 1998 by the
Board of Supervisors and City Council that established parameters and policies for the
planning study, the Task Force recommendations, and next steps to be taken. San Rafael
Community Development Director Bob Brown expanded on the MOU policy
recommendations, emphasizing the Task Force recommendations regarding traffic on
Highway 101, provisions of community services, the overall amount of development, no
development of a rail station on the property, and prioritization of portions of the
property to be acquired with outside financial resources. Director Brown concluded by
reiterating that the Task Force recommendations would not result in a specific project
approval.
Task Force members Nona Dennis, representing environmental interests, and Doug
Elliot, from the community at -large interests, explained the unique interest -based
negotiations planning process, and expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
Task Force member Brian Cahill, Executive Director of C.Y.O. representing the St.
Vincent property owners, stated that the process was fair and balanced where all interests
were respected. The recommendations are consistent with the responsible stewardship of
the property owners because they would preserve 85 percent of the land. He concluded
by stating that their intent is to develop the land in a responsible manner, which would
allow continued services to families and children.
Task Force member Iry Schwartz, representing the Silveira property owners, clarified
that the Silveira's could not sign the recommendations because of a pending lawsuit with
the Las Gallinas Sanitary District. However, they appreciated the opportunity to
participate in the process.
Task Force member Sandy Greenblat, representing business interests, was pleased to
have been part of the Task Force. He believes that many issues were addressed,
including housing, workforce housing, traffic, recreational space, and fairness to the
property owners. He expressed appreciation to facilitator Steve Barber for opening doors
the Task Force didn't see, and stated that the resulting recommendations resulted in an
acceptable plan.
Task Force member Frank Nelson, representing neighborhood organizations, stated that
the Task Force's responsibility was to try and identify the needs of each interest group.
In doing so, he attended approximately 35 loop -out meetings. The priority interests
identified by the neighborhoods were traffic, development with self-supporting
infrastructure and services, protection of the Miller Creek watershed, a variety of housing
types, preservation of the rural setting, and historical preservation and environmental
beauty. Although most of these interests were addressed in the recommendations, the
remaining issue is traffic. He stated that it appears that the future of the subject
properties is in the hands of the County and the City as they develop and implement a
comprehensive transportation plan which links land use and transportation.
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Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Task Force member Patsy White, representing housing interests, commented on the
importance of providing affordable and workforce housing in the county, and noted the
need for housing for local emergency, hospital, county, and school employees. She
added that for each of the proposed alternatives, a diversity of housing will be provided
while protecting views, baylands, ridgelines, and a large portion of the land.
Task Force member Judy Binsaca, representing the League of Women Voters, stated that
the Task Force's main goal was to reach consensus on a plan that everybody could live
with. In her opinion, the recommendations address all community interests identified, to
balance competing interests, preserve and enhance the ecological features of the property,
address critical needs for workforce housing, sensitive design and community facilities,
provide fair compensation to property owners, and include traffic mitigations. She added
that the process was a model for land use planning Marin.
Task Force member Marjorie Macris, representing environmental interests, stated that the
major concerns of the environmental community were the maximum preservation and
enhancement of the ecological, scenic, cultural, and historic resources of the property.
Although agreement was reached on major points, agreement could not be reached for a
single recommendation regarding the total amount of development on the site. The Task
Force's recommendation includes a range of possible development, with the provision
that all three alternatives be included in environmental review of any development
proposal. Therefore, in her opinion, the recommendations provide the basis for the
community and officials to work on remaining issues such as acquisition of lands for
preservation.
President Kinsey reiterated the purpose of the meeting, which was to accept the report
and that no action would be taken.
The meeting was opened to public testimony.
The following people expressed concerns regarding the Task Force recommendations as
presented:
Frank Ross, Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, submitted a statement and stated that
he was concerned about preservation of archeological resources. Archaeological sites
should be protected to the maximum extent.
Dottie LeMieux, Sierra Club Marin Group, stated that she feels up to 500 units appears
appropriate for the site, and that to achieve this goal, the community will need to work
together to raise funds.
Tighe O'Sullivan, Marin Athletic Coalition, stated that since the athletes of Marin were
not represented on the Task Force, the need for athletic facilities was not adequately
considered or addressed. The athletic community should be included in the process to
address current and future needs for recreational areas.
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Don Dickenson, Citizen Advocates for Preservation of St. Vincent's/Silveira, opposed
the process and recommendations, stating that the site should be preserved for habitat and
cultural management and preservation.
Barbara Salzman, Marin Audubon Society, felt that the recommendations are far in
excess of what the site can accommodate. As recommended by the Task Force, the
ecosystem will be irreparably damaged and protection of habitat is not ensured. She
noted that the National Audubon Society has announced a major fundraising to protect
baylands.
Katherine Cuneo, from Environmental Forum thanked the Task Force, and stated that the
low end allows for compact development with workforce housing and adaptive reuse, and
that the majority of the site should be owned by a public organization. Although
preservation policies have been included in the recommendations, the mid-range and
higher development levels of development would impact important resources. Therefore,
minimal development (low-end alternative) should be encouraged.
Ann Rapoon, Marinwood resident, noted traffic has increased in Marinwood and
preferred minimal development on the site.
Dean Pioli, resident of Marin for 48 years, stated that much of the natural beauty of
Marin County has been lost over the years, and added his concern about the traffic
situation.
Ann Thomas, Citizen Advocates for Preservation of St. Vincents/Silveira, completed the
CAPS presentation by Dickinson (above), stating that based on courtroom testimony at
the Silveira vs. Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District, the Board and City Council should
be very cautious about accepting the Task Force's recommendations.
Mike Arnett of the Democratic Central Committee stated that he'd like to see minimal
development, with affordable housing and not million dollar mansions.
Susan Stompe, Marin Conservation League, submitted a letter restating the organization's
commitment to the preservation of the properties, and recommending inclusion of both
properties in the Baylands Protection Corridor.
Whitney Bryant, high school student, supported recreation fields on the site.
Sabrina, high school student, stated that there was a need for recreation fields in Marin,
and that the existing fields are overused.
Amy Gallagher, high school student, stated that there is need for safe playing fields in
Marin, and that existing fields are crowded and unsafe.
Peter Mesina, interested citizen, stated that new recreation fields are needed in Marin.
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council 4
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
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Vito Spans, Marin Catholic, stated that new sports facilities will bring the community
together, and that it's frustrating to play on good fields in other cities, but not here in
Marin.
Candace Creely, interested citizen, stated that the sticking point is traffic.
Dart Cherk, Dovetail, appreciated the thoughtful recommendations of the Task Force,
adding that they are founded on sustainability principles.
Ron Van Buskirk, Marin Athletic Coalition, submitted a letter in support of a significant
athletic and equestrian center on St. Vincent's/Silveira.
Whitfield King, President of the Marinwood Association, stated that the traffic problem
must be solved, and that affordable housing is needed.
Nancy Miller, President of the Dixie Little League, stated that the Board and Council
have a duty to support the community in looking at recreation options.
Tom Davis, Contempo Marin Homeowners Association, opposed any development on
the site and wanted to examine the no growth option.
Harvey Goldberg, farmer, stated that the Task Force didn't recognize the rights of the
property owners as regards swamp overflow lands.
Fielding Greaves, Marin United Taxpayers Association, stated that growth brings
problems. He felt the property owners deserve compensation, and that the Task Force
should have looked at purchase by Golden Gate National Recreation Area or other
organizations.
Laura Thompson, interested citizen, urged adoption of the resolution. She appreciated
the view of the St. Vincent's/Silveira from 101.
Bill Conroe, interested citizen, wants a rail line to get people through Marin, and noted
that we can control growth through water hookups.
Margaret Azevedo, interested citizen, observed that dramatic claims have been made as
to what might be lost. She added that development is not proposed for east of the railroad
on historic tidal wetlands, that Miller Creek will be restored, that the community
separator Pacheco Ridge will be preserved.
Lee Lee Shapiro, Housing Council, stated that the reason for traffic on 101 is that we
need housing for people who work in this area, and that he supported the
recommendations.
Beth Huber, from San Rafael City Schools, stated her support for affordable housing on
the site.
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Elissa Giambastiani, San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, noted that between now and
2006, Marin's'housing need is 6,000 units. She stated that there are 10,000 jobs in north
San Rafael, and that this is a jobs/housing balance issue. She urged the Board and
Council to accept the report.
Ian Sanders, interested citizen, agreed with the Task Force's recommendation for
workforce housing, and for balanced mix use development.
Joanne Conti, Terra Linda resident, stated that she is a teacher here, and would like to be
able to live here.
Jeff Ehlenbach, member of previous St. Vincent's/Silveira Advisory Committee,
commended the Task Force for its work. He said that we've had ten years of this process
in phase 1, and that the issues of no growth will continue to be around. He urged
adoption of the resolution so that we can move ahead to the next phase.
Al Aramburu, interested citizen, urged adoption of the resolution accepting the
recommendations.
Greg Brockbank, housing advocate, stated that as a trustee of College of Marin, there is a
tremendous need for affordable housing for teachers. As they have to live further away,
they become less a part of our community.
Roz Katz, Terra Linda resident, noted that implementation will be difficult, and asked
that attention be given to traffic.
Ulla -Britt Jonsson, San Rafael resident, noted that she bought an affordable unit in
Downtown five years ago, and she can walk to work. She supported the
recommendation for 20 percent affordable units.
Clarence Bracely, Blackpoint resident, said it's a fallacy that more development means
less costs, and that he supports more open space.
Deborah Faust, housing advocate, encouraged the Board and Council to adopt the
resolution. She supported housing for very low- and low-income households. She added
that she sits on the interview committee of her daughter's school, and that they have lost
excellent teaching candidates due to the cost of housing.
Colin Russell, local architect, said that the recommendations would leave very large
portions of the land open. He would rather see workers live here, than have to drive from
the north. He asked that the Task Force recommendations be allowed to go forward.
George Silveira, interested citizen, suggested that St. Vincent's gives its land away, and
that is remain a school or be a cemetery or open space.
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council 6
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Rosalie Webb, interested resident, stated that the property owners have waited a long
time to develop their property.
Dwayne Hunn, interested citizen, stated that, regarding a transit stop, that if you want to
deal with traffic, then use the train tracks and build a development with a train stop at the
site.
Wendy Dransfield, Nelson Staffing, stated that she has 500 open jobs in San Rafael and
no candidates because of the high cost of housing.
The meeting was closed to public testimony.
M/s Rose/Murray, to commend Task Force Members and adopt Resolution 2000-46
accepting the Task Force recommendations, commending the Task Force for its work,
noting that the Task Force has successfully completed its charge, and referring the
recommendations to the Director of the Community Development Agency for review and
consideration during the Countywide Plan Update.
In response to Supervisor Rose, staff stated that the recommendations are being made by
the Task Force and not staff Supervisor Rose then made the following observations: 1)
The report should not be used to establish the value of the properties; 2) development
should be minimal until traffic issues are addressed; 3) annexation of the properties is not
a foregone conclusion; and 4) if the property is developed, the levels of affordability
should be dramatically increased.
Supervisor Murray requested that a multi -modal transit center component be revisited,
and that telecommuting be considered when traffic studies are conducted. She also
supported annexing the property sooner than later.
The vote on the pending motion was:
AYES: Supervisors Kinsey, Kress, Murray, Rose
NOES: None
ABSENT: Supervisor Brown
In response to Councilmember Heller, Director Brown stated that the area outside the
City's Sphere of Influence would not be included in the annexation.
M/s Councilmember Cohen/Councilmember Phillips, to commend Task Force Members
and adopt the Resolution accepting the Task Force recommendations and referring them
to staff for consideration during the General Plan Update.
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Councilmember Cohen stated that the discussions during the development review process
to come will be substantive, and that we need to take seriously balancing environmental
protection with housing needs.
Councilmember Phillips noted that a great deal of concern had been voiced about traffic.
He asked about the traffic modeling done for the study. Director Brown responded that
fourteen traffic model runs were conducted showing that there appears to be a point at
which the cost of needed traffic improvements can be supported by the level of
development. The environmental impact report will include analysis of three levels of
development as recommended by the Task Force.
Councilmember Miller observed that the recommendations are the work of the people,
for the people, and all for the common good.
Mayor Boro noted that the Memorandum of Understanding was a good example of
cooperation in planning between local governments.
RESOLUTION NO. 10634 - A RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL CITY
COUNCIL REGARDING THE
RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE ST.
VINCENT'S/SILVEIRA ADVISORY TASK
FORCE
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
There being no further business, meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m.
Mark J. Riesenfeld, Clerk of the Board Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
Approved this day of , 2000 Approved this day of ,2000
Steve Kinsey, President
Marin County Board of Supervisors
Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council
Special Joint Workshop/Meeting
May 3, 2000
Mayor of the City of San Rafael