Loading...
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. Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council 2 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. Board of Supervisors/San Rafael City Council 3 Special Joint Workshop/Meeting May 3, 2000 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 May 3, 2000 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