HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2007-12-03SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 1
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2007 AT 8:00 P.M.
Regular Meeting:
San Rafael City Council
Also Present: Ken Nordhoff, City Manager
Gary T. Ragghianti, City Attorney
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
OPEN SESSION — COUNCIL CHAMBER — 7:00 PM
Mayor Boro announced Closed Session items.
Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor
Paul M. Cohen, Vice -Mayor
Barbara Heller, Councilmember
Cyr N. Miller, Councilmember
Gary O. Phillips, Councilmember
Absent: None
CLOSED SESSION — CONFERENCE ROOM 201 - 7:00 PM - File 1-4-1a
a) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation
Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
Case Name: Sharon Ivory v. Citv of San Rafael
Marin County Superior Court Case No. 064366
b) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation
Government Code Section 54956.9(a)
Case Name: Waiih Aiib v. City of San Rafael
Marin County Superior Court Case No. 052663
City Attorney Gary Ragghianti announced that no reportable action was taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE: 8:05 PM
None
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to approve the Consent Calendar, as
follows:
ITEM
RECOMMENDED ACTION
2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meetings of
Minutes approved as submitted.
November 5 and November 19, 2007 (CC)
3. Resolution of Appreciation for Gary T.
RESOLUTION NO. 12383 —
Ragghianti, City Attorney, Retiring after 23 Years
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
of Service (CA) — File 102 x 9-3-16
FOR GARY T. RAGGHIANTI, CITY
ATTORNEY, RETIRING AFTER 23
YEARS OF SERVICE
4. Resolution of Appreciation for Jeanne M.
RESOLUTION NO. 12384 —
Leoncini, City Clerk, Retiring after 35 Years of
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
Service (CC) — File 102 x 9-3-14
FOR JEANNE M. LEONCINI, CITY
CLERK, RETIRING AFTER 35 YEARS
OF SERVICE
5. Resolution of Appreciation for Paul M. Cohen,
RESOLUTION NO. 12385 —
Councilmember, Retiring after 16 Years of
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
Service (CC) — File 102 x 9-1
FOR PAUL M. COHEN,
COUNCILMEMBER, RETIRING
AFTER 16 YEARS OF SERVICE
6. Resolution of Appreciation for Gary O. Phillips, RESOLUTION NO. 12386 —
Councilmember, Retiring after 12 Years of RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
Service (CC) — File 102 x 9-1 GARY O. PHILLIPS, RETIRING
AFTER 12 YEARS OF SERVICE
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page t
7. Reappointment of Cynthia Rodericks to a Second
2 -Year Term on the Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and
Vector Control District Board, with Term to Expire
End of December, 2009 (CC) — File 9-2-9
8. Resolutions Honoring Exceptional Excellence in
Architectural Design (CD) — File 250 x 9-3-85 x
9-2-39 x 102
9. Resolution Revising the Starkweather Shoreline
Park Masterplan, Shoreline Parkway Segment
(CS) — File 12-5 x 9-3-66 x 9-2-4
10. Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to
Execute the Second Amendment to the
Agreement with Bartel Associates, LLC in the
Amount of $19,500 for Additional "Other Post
Employment Benefits" (OPEB) Actuarial Services
(MS) — File 4-3-476 x 4-17-257
11. Resolution Approving And Authorizing The City
Manager to Execute Two Agreements Between
the City of San Rafael and Cigna Insurance:
1) Renewal of the Agreement to Provide all
Eligible Employees Basic Life Insurance,
Dependent Life Insurance, Voluntary Life
Insurance and Long -Term Disability Insurance
(January 1, 2008 Through December 31, 2010);
and
2) An Extension Agreement to Provide Basic
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
and Voluntary Accidental Death and
Dismemberment Insurance (January 1, 2008
Through June 30, 2010) (MS) — File 7-1-50
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 2
Approved staff recommendation to
reappoint Cynthia Rodericks to a
second 2 -year term on the
Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector
Control District Board, with term to
expire end of December, 2009.
RESOLUTION NO. 12387 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
5000 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE
RESOLUTION NO. 12388 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
900 C STREET
RESOLUTION NO. 12389 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
33 MERRYDALE ROAD
RESOLUTION NO. 12390 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
515 NORTHGATE DRIVE
RESOLUTION NO. 12391 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
1637 FIFTH AVENUE
RESOLUTION NO. 12392 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
7 & 11 MARK DRIVE
RESOLUTION NO. 12393 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO
50 CRESTA DRIVE
RESOLUTION NO. 12394 —
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE
REVISION TO THE STARKWEATHER
SHORELINE PARK MASTERPLAN,
SHORELINE PARKWAY SEGMENT
RESOLUTION NO. 12395 —
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE
SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY
OF SAN RAFAEL AND BARTEL
ASSOCIATES, LLC TO CONDUCT AN
OPEB ACTUARIAL STUDY
RESOLUTION NO. 12396 —
RESOLUTION APPROVING AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER
TO EXECUTE TWO AGREEMENTS
BETWEEN THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
AND CIGNA INSURANCE: 1)
RENEWAL OF THE AGREEMENT TO
PROVIDE ALL ELIGIBLE EMPLOYEES
BASIC LIFE INSURANCE, DEPENDENT
LIFE INSURANCE, VOLUNTARY LIFE
INSURANCE AND LONG-TERM
DISABILITY INSURANCE (January 1,
2008 through December 31, 2010; and
2) AN EXTENSION AGREEMENT TO
PROVIDE BASIC ACCIDENTAL DEATH
AND DISMEMBERMENT INSURANCE
AND VOLUNTARY ACCIDENTAL
DEATH AND DISMEMBERMENT
INSURANCE (January 1, 2008 through
June 30, 2010)
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 2
12. Resolutions of Appreciation for Four Volunteers
in Policing: (PD) — File 102 x 9-3-30
Emil Bettini Reverend Jan Heglund
Bill Kay Reverend Will Nelken
13. Resolution Authorizing the Director of Public
Works to Amend the Current Funding Agreement
Between the Transportation Authority of Marin
and the City of San Rafael by Adding $533,660 in
Local Measure A Funding (PW) —
File 170 x 9-3-40
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 3
RESOLUTION NO. 12397 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT
VOLUNTEER EMIL BETTINI
RESOLUTION NO. 12398 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT
VOLUNTEER REVEREND JAN
HEGLUND
RESOLUTION NO. 12399 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT
VOLUNTEER BILL KAY
RESOLUTION NO. 12400 —
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT
VOLUNTEER REVEREND WILL
NELKEN
RESOLUTION NO. 12401 —
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS TO
AMEND THE CURRENT FUNDING
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
TRANSPORTATION AUTHORITY OF
MARIN AND THE CITY OF SAN
RAFAEL BY ADDING $533,660 IN
LOCAL MEASURE A FUNDING
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
14. PRESENTATION OF 2007 SAN RAFAEL DESIGN AWARDS (CD) —
FILE 250 x 9-3-85 x 9-2-39 x 102
Mayor Boro noted the awardees' renderings were on display in the lobby.
Mayor Boro stated that several years ago the City Council recognized some development in
San Rafael for the first time with Design Awards and at that time, the Lone Palm Apartments,
Freitas Senior Housing in North San Rafael and the Oasis Office building on Fifth and A Streets
were acknowledged. He indicated that a committee had been reconfigured earlier this year to
look at a number of buildings constructed in the City over the past several years, consisting of
representatives from the City Council, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Chamber
of Commerce, Federation of San Rafael neighborhoods, Coalition of San Rafael
neighborhoods, together with a representative from the American Institute of Architecture.
Twenty-five nominations were submitted and seven were being acknowledged this evening,
each of whom would receive a Resolution of Appreciation and certificate. Noting that all five
current City Councilmembers had been involved with building these projects, Mayor Boro
thanked the recipients for their work in helping to continue to keep San Rafael a place for
people to visit and enjoy.
5000 Civic Center Drive - Office Building. — Mayor Boro presented the award to the Architect,
Robert Hattfield, Hattfield Architecture, Mill Valley.
900 C Street - Parking Garaqe — Mayor Boro presented the award to Architects, Watry Design,
Inc., Redwood City.
33 Merrvdale Road — DeHaan Communitv Center — Mayor Boro presented the award to
Architect, Barbara Brown, Sausalito.
515 Northqate Drive — Alma Via of San Rafael — Mayor Boro presented the award to HKIT
Architects, Oakland.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 3
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 4
1637 Fifth Avenue — Burke residence — Mayor Boro presented the award to Architect Elida
Doldan, Schujman/Architecture Studio, Mill Valley.
7 & 11 Mark Drive — Mayor Boro presented Honorable Mention Award for landscaping to
Rynerson & O'Brien Architecture, Oakland.
50 Cresta Drive — Mayor Boro presented a Merit Award for diversity and design to Jerry Kler
Architects, Sausalito.
Acknowledging Linda Jackson, Principal Planner, Mayor Boro thanked her for her assistance
with the script for these awards.
15. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTIONS OF APPRECIATION TO GARY T. RAGGHIANTI, CITY
ATTORNEY, JEANNE M. LEONCINI, CITY CLERK, PAUL M. COHEN, COUNCILMEMBER
AND GARY O. PHILLIPS, COUNCILMEMBER — FILE 102 x 9-3-16 x 9-3-14 x 9-1
Mayor Boro reported that four of the eight elected officials in San Rafael were retiring.
Presenting the Resolution of Appreciation to retiring Citv Attornev, Gary Ragghianti, Mayor Boro
quoted:
"Gary Ragghianti was appointed to the Office of City Attorney on November 19, 1984 and was
elected without opposition at the next six elections. He has served two Mayors and eleven
Councilmembers; and
Gary, as City Attorney, has provided the City Council and staff with legal advice on a great
variety of legal issues that have always been responsive, competent, comprehensive and
timely; and
Gary, as City Attorney, has assisted the City Council and staff with numerous difficult land use
issues, for which he has justifiably gained a reputation as a wise counselor and expert in land
use law; and
Gary, as City Attorney, has successfully guided the City Council through complex litigated
cases, demonstrating the qualities of a brilliant strategist and compelling oral and written
advocate before the Court; and
Gary, as City Attorney, has directed, supervised, or overseen the preparation of more than 360
Ordinances, nearly 5,500 Resolutions and has been a commanding (if not entertaining)
presence at more than 500 City Council meetings; and
Gary, as City Attorney, has balanced a very serious, focused, lawyerly approach to his work for
the City Council and staff with a playfulness, devilish wit, and irreverent and unique sense of
humor; and
Gary, as City Attorney has always been a caring, thoughtful, courteous, and inspirational leader
which is demonstrated by his seemingly effortless ability to get things done, and done well,
belying his favorite phrase "IT AINT EASY!"
On a personal note, Mayor Boro stated Mr. Ragghianti had not only been a great lawyer, he had
been a good friend. On behalf of the City Council and San Rafael community, he expressed
thanks and congratulations.
Councilmember Phillips thanked Mr. Ragghianti for his advice throughout the years.
Expressing thanks, Councilmember Heller stated it had been a joy working with Mr. Ragghianti.
Councilmember Cohen stated it had been a pleasure working with Mr. Ragghianti for sixteen
years and for the combination of his rock solid legal advice and guidance, and understanding
the line between Counsel and policy setting. He stated that Mr. Ragghianti's wonderful sense
of humor and wit lightened up some heavy moments.
Councilmember Miller recalled that Mr. Ragghianti always gave advice well, guiding the City
Council in the right direction. He also expressed appreciation for the gift of his sense of humor
and life.
Thanking the Mayor and City Council, Mr. Ragghianti also expressed thanks to Jeanne
Leoncini, City Clerk, for the honor and privilege of working with her for 23 years. He thanked
Gus Guinan, Assistant City Attorney and Eric Davis, Deputy City Attorney, for their loyalty and
support, and Mrs. Ragghianti, who had never attended a City Council meeting, by choice, and
without whom he could not have done so much.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 4
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 5
In his career, Mr. Ragghianti stated it was his privilege to represent four of the eleven cities in
Marin County — Belvedere, Corte Madera, Tiburon and San Rafael; however, his favorite had
always been San Rafael. Of all the thousands of Council meetings he had attended, he
indicated that the best had always been, and he hoped would remain, those conducted in San
Rafael.
Indicating he would miss everyone, Mr. Ragghianti stated he would always have a fond spot in
his heart for what he considered the greatest city in Marin County.
Presenting the Resolution of Appreciation to Jeanne Leoncini, Citv Clerk, Mayor Boro quoted:
"Jeanne Leoncini joined the Public Works Department in 1972. She was appointed City Clerk in
1977, elected to that position in March, 1979 and re-elected on six occasions by the citizens of
the City of San Rafael; and
Jeanne has worked with 3 Mayors, 16 Councilmembers, 4 City Attorneys and 8 City Managers,
all of whom fell victim to her infamous, but much beloved red pen. She attended and stayed
awake for more than 700 Council meetings and executed in excess of 7,000 Resolutions and
600 Ordinances; and
Under her leadership, and at times against her better judgment, the City Clerk's Department
was among the first to provide Internet access to public documents; Jeanne's achievements
also include the implementation of Records Management and Electronic Indexing Systems; and
Jeanne has worked tirelessly to ensure that all City records are easily accessible. She is a
staunch advocate of the public's right to know, promptly and pleasantly assisting those seeking
information on any subject, whether recently, from the 1950s or the Paleozoic Era; and
Jeanne's retirement has led to the imminent bankruptcy of the Ticonderoga Pen and Pencil
Company and the layoff of 125 employees; and
As the first woman to join her Rotary Club, Jeanne has "made up" any missed meetings, which
has resulted in a perfect but ultimately frightening attendance record; and
Jeanne is the longest serving City Clerk in Marin County and is known far wide for her sense of
humor and even-tempered nature. Still awaiting her growth spurt, she has been affectionately
referred to as "Her Shortness", "Little Leon" or "The Little One"; and
Jeanne is like an overly zealous FBI agent when tracking down misguided and slovenly authors
of staff reports, resolutions, etc. Her red pen is a testament to the fact that she has zero
tolerance for errors. In fact, a stroke of this pen has kept many from spending time behind bars.
When the going gets tough, she has been known to utter "I don't know whether I'm on foot or
horseback"; an apparent attempt at humor that no one truly understands."
Stating that Jeanne had a marvelous career of 35 years with the City of San Rafael, Mayor Boro
stated she was very well known for what she had done; she had a way of ensuring everything
was well thought out and well prepared. She was leaving a true legacy and would be missed.
Acknowledging the presence of her husband and son, Mayor Boro thanked and congratulated
Jeanne Leoncini.
Noting Jeanne was an absolute perfectionist, Councilmember Phillips stated she was a delight
to work with.
Councilmember Heller stated that Jeanne had been marvelous in helping everyone understand
forms, etc., and she expressed thanks.
Councilmember Cohen noted the tremendous respect the City Council and Department Heads
had for Jeanne and her role in maintaining the public's trust by keeping accurate records of
Council meetings.
Councilmember Miller expressed admiration and love for Jeanne's dedication to the task of
ensuring everything was correct and honestly related to the public.
Stating that City Hall had been her "home away from home" for thirty-five years, Ms. Leoncini
stated she had thoroughly enjoyed working with Mayor Boro and the City Council, City Attorney,
Gary Ragghianti, Assistant City Attorney Gus Guinan and staff of the City Attorney's office. She
acknowledged her staff, Esther and Rita, City Manager Ken Nordhoff and Department Directors,
and in conclusion, Jeanne thanked her husband Lou and son Scott.
Noting the current Council had served together for over ten years, quoting from the Resolution
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 5
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 6
Mayor Boro stated: "Paul Cohen has been an active, dedicated and involved public servant on
behalf of the City of San Rafael for just over two decades; and
Paul began his City public service in May 1987, when he was appointed to the Planning
Commission, where he served for four and one half years and was instrumental in reviewing
and approving numerous development projects; and
Paul was elected to serve on the City Council beginning November 1991, and has served 16
years as a Councilmember and Vice Mayor; and
Paul's tenure as a City Councilmember included stints on various appointed committees and
boards, including the San Rafael Redevelopment Agency, the San Rafael Sanitation District
Board, the MTC Advisory Council, ABAG, Marin Economic Commission and Chair of MCCMC;
and
During Paul's tenure on the Planning Commission and City Council, Councilmember Cohen
provided the leadership necessary to revitalize the Downtown, improve or build six parks,
renovate two community centers, build a new childcare center, public parking garage, City
Plaza and Public Works building, approve two General Plans, build affordable housing
throughout the City, and implement traffic improvement and capital projects too numerous to
list; and
Paul's departure from the City Council does not mean he has left public service, in fact, he'll
have the opportunity to enjoy many more public meetings as a newly elected San Rafael City
Schools Board Trustee."
Indicating that he had known Paul Cohen for the entire time he served the City of San Rafael,
Mayor Boro recalled that when Paul was 13 years old (with curly hair), he was on the Marin
County Youth Commission, at which time he (Mayor Boro) was the adult advisor to the County
Parks Commission. Commenting that Paul was a brilliant person, Mayor Boro stated he "gets to
the issues, brings consensus to the City Council and tackles tough issues." Noting the current
City Council was cohesive and worked well together, albeit, not agreeing on every occasion, as
should be the case, Mayor Boro stated all wished to do what was best for the City, and Paul
Cohen was the exemplification of this.
Indicating they always ran for election together, Councilmember Phillips stated he was
particularly attached to Paul Cohen — "a terrific guy." He could get to the heart of the issues,
some of which were very complex, more quickly than anyone he knew, and his clarity and
perspective were admired and respected.
Councilmember Heller stated that watching Paul Cohen through the years had been a joy. He
kept his family foremost in his thoughts, actions and work, while still giving the City every minute
it demanded, and had done a marvelous job as a human being. She believed this City Council
worked so well because all members left their egos at the front door.
Indicating that when first appointed to the City Council he got his place to the left of
Councilmember Cohen, Councilmember Miller stated it brought with it the depth of the meaning
of social justice — the building of society — and Councilmember Cohen has taken this as the
context in which he thought about, discussed, and came to his decisions in terms of the
common good of the City. He stated it had been a privilege to learn so much from Paul Cohen.
Councilmember Cohen commented that after sixteen years, one would have thought he would
have figured out how not to follow Councilmember Miller; however, no one had, noting the
cardinal rule was not to follow Cyr Miller.
Commenting on the special relationship this Council had enjoyed for the last twelve years, and
reading of the sniping and posturing of other councils, Councilmember Cohen stated he had
thought to himself on numerous occasions that he could not do this in such an environment.
Expressing appreciation for having had the opportunity of working with Mayor Boro and the
other members of the City Council for the common good, not necessarily agreeing, rather
working with a tremendous sense of respect for one another, being straightforward and honest
and willing to speak their minds while working to achieve consensus for what they believed to
be the best for the community. Councilmember Cohen stated it spoke well for the City that the
citizens of San Rafael at election time, clearly, consistently and with no doubt, continually
demonstrated they trusted the City Council as a group to arrive at the correct decision, and he
reiterated that it had been a tremendous pleasure serving with Mayor Boro and the City Council
and working through that process.
Realizing it was time to make room for someone else, Councilmember Cohen stated that the
last time he ran for election he was the City Liaison to the General Plan update; however, while
he was involved in a lot of things currently, there was nothing someone else could not step into
and take over. Councilmember Cohen stated that he was leaving with the City in the hands of a
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 6
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 7
tremendous group of staff people, for whom he had tremendous respect. He stated it had been
an honor and pleasure to work with everyone and he was leaving in the knowledge that the City
was in very good hands.
Quoting from the Resolution of Appreciation for Gary Phillips, Mayor Boro stated: "Gary Phillips
has been a committed, energetic and engaged public servant on behalf of the City of San
Rafael for sixteen years; and
Gary served eight years on the Dixie School Board and began his City public service in
December 1991, when he was appointed to the Planning Commission, where he served for
over three years and was instrumental in reviewing and approving numerous development
projects; and
Gary was appointed to serve on the City Council beginning February 1995, and has served
twelve years as a Councilmember and Vice -Mayor; and
Gary's tenure as a City Councilmember included stints on various appointed committees and
boards (Mayor Boro noted the City Council was involved not only in San Rafael's, but many
County issues), including the San Rafael Redevelopment Agency, the San Rafael Business
Issues Committee, City/School Liaison Committee and the Marin Economic Commission; and
During Gary's tenure on the Planning Commission and City Council, Councilmember Phillips
provided the leadership necessary to revitalize the Downtown, approve General Plan 2020,
improve or build six parks, renovate two community centers, build a new childcare center, public
parking garage, City Plaza and Public Works building, build affordable housing throughout the
City, and implement traffic improvement and capital projects, too numerous to list; and
Councilmember Phillips went above, around and outside his public service duties by bringing
the Great Race event to San Rafael. He, along with Mayor Al Boro, completed a cross-country
race in a Ford Model A, crossing the finish line in Downtown San Rafael in July 2006."
Mayor Boro expressed gratitude to Councilmember Phillips for the time he had given to San
Rafael. Having first met Gary when he (Gary Phillips) was a school board member and he
(Mayor Boro) was serving as City Council representative on the Liaison Committee on
childcare, he stated he had not realized at the time of his election that San Rafael provided over
1,200 childcare spots for children in the San Rafael community, and they worked together on a
committee report on how to continue and enhance the childcare program.
Mayor Boro stated that when Councilmember Phillips approached him with regard to hosting
the Great Race, his response was that this was not possible because the City was in a financial
crisis and City funds could not be utilized for an event such as this. Using his favorite phrase of
"not to worry" Councilmember Phillips stated he would take care of it, and he did. Mayor Boro
stated it took a while to realize he would accompany Councilmember Phillips across country in
the Ford Model A; however, they had a great time, their friendship was further enhanced and
they were more than speaking to each other at the end of the 14 days and 4,400 miles.
Indicating that one of the motivators for Gary for this project was the City, Mayor Boro stated
that another was the fact that San Rafael was voted by the 109 entrants as the best host city
based on a 24-hour period, and received a $10,000 grant for the Library; Councilmember
Phillips had worked very hard on this.
Mayor Boro stated that Gary Phillips had been a great Councilmember and good friend and he
wished him lots of luck.
Councilmember Heller stated she got to know Gary Phillips through the twelve years he spent
on the Planning Commission and City Council. She enjoyed listening to the conversations
about cars and learned a lot; however, she had not yet become familiar with golf. Noting
Councilmember Phillips was very busy with family and work, she stated he always found the
time to be present and prepared for every meeting, which she appreciated.
Concurring that in some ways they were "joined at the hip", Councilmember Cohen stated he
did not know if anyone who had not been through an election campaign really understood how
much time was spent with fellow candidates. It had been a pleasure to work with him and he,
like the other members of the Council, looked to Gary on financial matters, listening carefully to
his advice. He noted their challenging experience with Marinwood was omitted from the
Resolutions. He stated it was an interesting experience working with Gary to ensure the best
interests of the City were protected and the best interests of the public at large were protected
when it concerned public safety.
Councilmember Miller stated it had been a delight working with Councilmember Phillips for the
past twelve years. He admired his accounting ability, always honestly expressing his point of
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 7
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 8
view, which carried over into relationships. He thanked Gary for his great contribution.
Acknowledging the past twelve years of his association with the City of San Rafael,
Councilmember Phillips stated it was an experience he would never forget. He suspected the
City Council was successful only because of the outstanding City staff, which people did not
often realize. They were good and smart people and it had truly been a delight to have been
associated with everyone present this evening and those who had not had the opportunity to
attend, and he expressed thanks for making the City Council look good on occasion.
Suggesting that those retiring were showing good judgment, Councilmember Phillips wished
them luck and thanked them for their support. He wished the City of San Rafael the best,
together with newly elected Councilmembers Greg Brockbank and Damon Connolly.
Noting four of the eight elected seats were turning over, Mayor Boro stated there would be
challenges for the new City Council and new things to accomplish for the City. He believed
those retiring truly enjoyed working for and with the City of San Rafael and exemplified the love
and interest they had for the community. He concurred that Council and staff were a team, all
respecting each other and working together to do what was best for the community.
PUBLIC HEARING:
16. Public Hearing:
INTERSECTION OF THIRD AND UNION STREETS - CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST
FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT TO ESTABLISH AN ACCEPTABLE LEVEL OF
SERVICE TO ALLOW MODIFICATIONS TO THE INTERSECTION FOR IMPROVED
PEDESTRIAN AND BICYCLIST SAFETY (CD) — FILE 115 (2020) x 11-10 x 11-11
Using charts, Community Development Director Bob Brown explained that with the General
Plan there was an ability for the City Council to allow an intersection improvement that exceeds
the acceptable Level of Service (LOS) for safety improvements, which was the subject of this
proposal.
Looking at the chart based on City Traffic Engineer Nader Mansourian's Traffic Modeling, Mr.
Brown stated that blue identified the current level of traffic, plus the approved projects
anticipated, burgundy added in the traffic from the last approval for PSP (Project Selection
Process) granted by the City Council, and yellow identified what was anticipated for
development from General Plan 2020 through that year. He indicated that all the existing and
assumed traffic fell within LOS D without a problem; however, having made safety
improvements, changes would take place. Mr. Brown stated that the baseline column grew,
which meant that essentially in the morning with the safety improvements, the LOS would be D;
therefore, LOS D was no longer viable for this intersection.
Mr. Brown stated that the Planning Commission recommended 70 -seconds of delay, i.e., mid
LOS E, which would accommodate the anticipated growth occurring between now and the year
2020. He stated staff supported this recommendation.
Councilmember Miller confirmed with Mr. Mansourian that basically, this concerned the
operations and safety of this intersection. Pedestrians and bicyclists were of paramount
importance and because it took pedestrians, especially elders, longer to cross, this amount of
delay time was needed for this operation.
Mr. Mansourian stated that by separating the northbound and southbound left turn movements,
the delay for the intersection would increase.
Aware of the amount of high school students in the mornings and afternoons in that
intersection, Councilmember Heller inquired whether the width of the sidewalks could be
increased at this time.
Mr. Mansourian stated staff worked with the Montecito Shopping Center as Phase I of the
project's improvements was implemented last year, i.e., they added a six-foot wide sidewalk on
their side. He noted that the sidewalks by the fire station and the north east part of the
intersection were being widened to accommodate the high school students standing on the
corner waiting for the signal.
With regard to the sidewalk on Union Street by the fire station, Councilmember Heller noted it
needed to be widened and made ADA accessible up to Mission Avenue, and she inquired
whether this could be done with this project.
Mr. Mansourian stated that as part of the design for the Union Street section, the work was
limited to Fourth Street. He indicated that the sidewalk would be replaced and ADA accessible
wheelchair ramps installed; however, it would not be widened on the fire station side. He
indicated that if there was a possibility of making the sidewalk wider, it would be done.
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 8
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 9
With respect to Northbound Union Street and the traffic to Whole Foods, Councilmember Cohen
noted a through lane and a left -turn lane would be added in the northbound direction, and he
inquired whether the left turn lane would be extended from the intersection to the driveway.
Mr. Mansourian stated it would end at the driveway and the roadway widening would narrow
down approaching Fourth Street.
Councilmember Cohen noted there still would be only one left turn lane off Third Street on to
Union Street; therefore, should a queue form in the left turn lane at Whole Foods, there could
still be a backup at that point.
Mr. Mansourian stated staff's observation had been one or two cars waiting to make a left turn
into Whole Foods. The left turn pocket to be created would store approximately three to four
cars.
Councilmember Cohen suggested monitoring the impact at Whole Foods. Noting valet parking
had been implemented at certain times, he suggested that this could perhaps be an internal
circulation issue.
In reading the Planning Commission minutes, Councilmember Phillips confirmed this would not
negatively impact the function of the fire station. He inquired as to the reaction of the immediate
homeowners association to the plan.
Mr. Mansourian confirmed that the original request to look at improvements at the intersection
came from the Montecito Shopping Center and the neighborhood. Staff had been in contact
with both, making presentations, and they were aware of the design, etc.
Mayor Boro declared the public hearing opened, and there being no comment from the
audience, closed the public hearing.
Aware that the intersection was a concern to those residing in East San Rafael, Peacock Gap,
Glenwood, Loch Lomond, etc., Mayor Boro stated that at the same time, the concerns of those
in the immediate neighborhood about having more time to cross were being addressed,
especially seniors, and he confirmed with Mr. Mansourian that count down indicators would be
installed there.
Councilmember Cohen believed it important to pay attention to pedestrian traffic generated by
the high school and ensure the intersection functioned in a safe manner for young people, some
of whom had not yet learned to develop a healthy terror of automobiles.
Indicating he was pleased that standards were not being lowered to accommodate
development, Councilmember Cohen stated this was being done to inconvenience the
automobile for the sake of pedestrians and bicyclists, and he believed this was the correct step
for the future of the City and planet in encouraging pedestrian and bicycle use.
Councilmember Heller inquired whether Whole Foods had any further plans to improve traffic.
Mr. Brown anticipated receiving the return of an application from the PSP process last year for
the approximate 3,500 square -foot expansion of the Take Out Food Section. He was unaware
of what parking lot improvements could result from that.
Regarding the timeline, Mayor Boro stated he was aware that some preparatory work needed to
be done by PG&E prior to commencing the project and the City would do everything possible to
cooperate in a timely fashion. Mr. Preston stated the best case scenario was that PG&E could
take approximately six months for the design phase; however, with lots of pending projects, this
one would join their queue. He was aware Mr. Mansourian would like to do the work during
school vacation; therefore, the best case scenario would be to be under construction in 2009.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to adopt the Resolution.
RESOLUTION NO. 12402 — RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN ADDENDUM TO THE
PREVIOUSLY CERTIFIED FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT (FEIR) FOR GENERAL PLAN 2020 AND A
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT ESTABLISHING A TRAFFIC
LEVEL OF SERVICE FOR THE THIRD AND UNION
INTERSECTION
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 9
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 10
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS:
17. CCA — Community Choice Aqqreqation: - File 271 x 9-1
Having attended several CCA sessions, Councilmember Miller stated that the report on Risk
Management was an outstanding document, providing concepts and context for making
decisions going forward.
Mayor Boro again thanked City Attorney Gary Ragghianti, City Clerk Jeanne Leoncini, and
Councilmembers Cohen and Phillips for their work on behalf of the City of San Rafael.
City Attorney Gary Ragghianti expressed sincere thanks to Mayor Boro and the City Council.
There being no further business, Mayor Boro adjourned the City Council meeting at 9:55 p.m.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF , 2007
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 12/03/2007 Page 10