HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPCC Minutes 1990-06-26SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (SI ial Joint) BUDGET HEARING 6/ 30 Page 1
IN CLASSROOM #1 AT PICKLEWEED RECREATION CENTER, TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 1990 AT 7:00 PM.
Special Joint Meeting: Present: Lawrence E. Mulryan, Chairman/Mayor
San Rafael City Council/ Albert J. Boro, Member/Councilmember
San Rafael Redevelopment Agency Dorothy L. Breiner, Member/Councilmember
Michael A. Shippey, Member/Councilmember
Joan Thayer, Member/Councilmember
Absent: None
Also Present: Pamela J. Nicolai, Executive Director/City Manager;
Jeanne M. Leoncini, Agency Secretary/City Clerk;
Ransom E. Coleman, Finance Director
1. BUDGET HEARING - PRELIMINARY 1990/91 BUDGET - File 8-5 x R-103
TRANSPORTATION 8 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
PUBLIC WORKS - Page 36
Executive Director/City Manager Nicolai stated the Public Works Department has had three or
four frozen positions for the last three years, one in Parks, one in Streets and one in the
Garage. She said she left out another position in the "Worthy But Unfunded" that is in the
Garage Division, noting it is mentioned in the Division's Budget.
Ms. Nicolai stated they are attempting to address priorities established at the Council's
retreat in January, indicating the frozen positions in the Police Department and one in the
City Manager's Office have been filled. She said within the revenues available this year they
were unable to fill vacancies that continue to exist in the Public Works Department.
Ms. Nicolai stated in the Building Division for the last four years a contractural Building
Inspector and an Engineering Plan Checker have been carried in the Contractural Services Account.
She stated the Plan Checker position has now been transferred to the Personnel Account rather
than to the Contractural Services Account, due to the recognition of the ongoing need for
this position.
Mayor Mulryan asked if there were any questions in the Consolidated Division of Public Works
Department, and there were none.
ADMINISTRATION/ENGINEERING - Page 38
Public Works Director Bernardi stated this area includes an additional Assistant Civil Engineer
which would reclassify the Associate Civil Engineer's position because of a retirement and
having it downgraded to Assistant Civil Engineer. He noted the department has one supervisory
individual already and there would now be two supervisory positions.
Mr. Bernardi stated he was looking at having two positions made out of one; the other position
would be a Computer Data Entry Technician, but because of the funding situation and because
the GEO Base System has not as yet come on line, he felt it appropriate to wait for at least
one year.
Mr. Bernardi stated the frozen positions are in the Street Maintenance, Garage and Parks,
indicating the greatest need now is in Parks.
STREET MAINTENANCE (CONSOLIDATED) - Page 40
In response to Councilmember Boro's question on Street Maintenance on the shift of Maintenance
Workers I/II to Supervising Maintenance Workers, Mr. Bernardi stated they have realigned the
the divisions to have a better system of rotating individuals through different work tasks
such as Street Maintenance, Street Painting, Storm Drain Maintenance and Street Cleaning.
He explained he has groups of four or five individuals who shift every six months into other
divisions so by the end of the year, the Maintenance Worker I besides II will be trained on
all aspects of the Street Maintenance Divisions.
Councilmember Boro recalled that last year's resurfacing account showed $400,000, noting this
year the budget shows $500,000, and asked if the $400,000 was spent last year. Mr. Bernardi
stated out of the $400,000, $200,000 was spent and $200,000 was carried over to this fiscal
year. He indicated they try to get a project big enough so they can get a good price on asphalt.
In response to Councilmember Shippey's question as to how far behind they are in the reduction
of pothole patching since 1986, Mr. Bernardi stated very far behind, indicating theoretically,
the streets should be paved every 15 years, and that out of 150 miles of streets, 10 miles
should be paved each year. He said with the $500,000, only four and one half miles of streets
can be resurfaced. Mr. Bernardi stated there are less potholes because of lack of rain, noting
potholes appear after heavy rains.
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Councilmember Boro inquired about linear feet of cleaned storm drainage drains. Mr. Bernardi
stated 1986 produced heavy rains, noting staff cleaned the drains all out; however, because
there has not been much rain staff has not had to spend a lot of time cleaning the storm drains.
He stated come September staff will physically go through the systems again before the rains
start in October.
City Manager Nicolai spoke on hazardous materials, stating as the City gets more requirements
on handling waste oils from maintenance afthe City's vehicles, etc., an expense has been
created for the disposal of those materials. She also stated if there is a spill and an identi-
fied source and the City is responsible to clean it up, the City will try to recoup the expense.
In response to Councilmember Breiner's question of a fine or penalty system, Ms. Nicolai stated
environmental agencies have a fine and penalty system, and the City is able to recoup their
own. She added sometimes the City can share in the penalties.
Ms. Victoria DeWitt, President of West End Neighborhood Association, referred to Fremont Road,
stating the road condition worsened with the last rainfall and the City did a temporary repair
but that it fell apart. Mr. Bernardi responded that their overlay project includes some work
to be done in this area, noting they can fix the problem but pointed out the street is very
narrow, and therefore they cannot completely reconstruct the street but they can solve the
immediate problem.
BUILDING MAINTENANCE - Page 44
Public Works Director Bernardi reported no changes in this division.
ELECTRICAL MAINTENANCE - Page 45
Public Works Director Bernardi stated the funds in this budget cover electrical maintenance
work which is contracted out by the City.
GARAGE - Page 46
No questions by Members/Councilmembers.
SANITARY SEWERS - Page 47
Public Works Director Bernardi stated these costs are passed on by the San Rafael Sanitation
District.
LAND DEVELOPMENT - Pages 48 & 49
No questions by Members/Councilmembers.
PARKS - Page 50 & 51
Councilmember Breiner recalled the discussion last year on scrutinizing the use of some of
the parkettes, particularly in the Terra Linda area, for ways to achieve two goals; 1) less
water usage by elimination of some of the grass and 2) saving labor hours with low maintenance
landscaping. She felt this is still a necessity, noting the neighborhoods should be involved.
Public Works Director Bernardi stated this last year, there has been conversion of manual
systems where the a person turns water valves on, returning an hour later to turn it off.
He stated a timer is now in place, saving time in manhours. He noted the City's parks get
used a lot, stating he is working with Recreation Director McNamee, including volunteer groups
in some parks to replace old outdated playground equipment and upgrade the parks.
Councilmember Boro referred to the Open Space Management Plan in the Terra Linda area and
asked if this plan would call upon the City to expand resources. Mr. Bernardi stated this
is not addressed in this year's budget, explaining there are a number of options that may
cost some initial money, but one option could be to deed the entirety of the open space to
the County Open Space District. He stated this has to be worked out, and noted other options
would be to consider the level of service the City would be providing, which is now being
discussed.
Mrs. Mary Carpou, Peacock Gap Homeowners Association representative stated they are committed
to maintaining the common areas, including weeding and maintenance, noting this would relieve
some of the time for park maintenance. She stated they are willing to take some of the responsi-
bility to free up man hours.
Mayor Mulryan stated this is a fine idea, and suggested she get together with Mr. Bernardi
to work out the details.
Mr. Patrick Webb, Vice -Chairperson for the Park and Recreation Commission, asked Council to
remember how the parks have grown. He referred to a 1974 report the Park and Recreation Commis-
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sion put together, referring to what would be projected in the year 1990. He stated the Shore-
line Park is now a reality, including the Pickleweed Community Center and the new park in
Peacock Gap, noting the Public Works Department is not unresponsive.
Mr. Mel Beck referred to the volunteer worker, reminding Council of the insurance liability
for the volunteer worker. Mrs. Carpou responded that the Peacock Gap Homeowners Association
carries insurance for hired help, noting they have already looked into this area.
STREET TREES, ISLANDS & PARKWAYS - PaQes 52, 53 & 54
Councilmember Breiner asked staff if they consider anything on an incremental basis, i.e.
when a small subdivision comes up, if there is a way the City could have the City owned maps
red flagged to get rid of some rights-of-way and also be able to lop off some. She noted when
the maps are being viewed in general for setbacks, this might be one way to cut off some of
the costs and responsibilities.
Public Works Director Bernardi responded when they review development proposals involving
public street dedications, the narrowing of streets is also reviewed, because of the lessening
of asphalt to be maintained, noting in some cases this has been done. He stated this does
not address the street tree issue but stated another issue could be when a new development
is approved and street trees are required they are the responsibilty of the property owner
and not the City.
City Manager Nicolai stated with San Rafael being a Tree City, the City needs to be concerned
about timing this with the Tree Preservation Ordinance. She added, what also needs to be address-
ed is that they are the City's trees and does the City have the ability to prevent people
from cutting trees down. She noted one of the reasons the City maintains the trees is to be
sure the street sweepers can get through, indicating if the property owners do not maintain
the trees the City has to hire someone to do the job. She said the City needs to be careful
that in solving one problem another problem is not being created, and noted guidelines will
be established as to what those requirements would be.
Mayor Mulryan stated it should be a part of the Heritage Tree investigation.
Councilmember Thayer asked staff to explore the possibility in future developments of a Mello/
Roos (District) which the City used on the Loch Lomond #10 project. She stated according to
the estimates, it would free up half a person or add half a person to staff.
Councilmember Breiner referred to Page 53, Supplies & Services, regarding funds for rental
of a water truck; she recalled that at the last budget hearing, it was discussed if it would
be cost effective to purchase a truck as opposed to leasing.
Mr. Bernardi stated they wanted to purchase a used water truck but could not find any worth
the money, which is approximately $80,000.00.
Mr. Bernardi stated Public Works does not have a street tree crew, indicating they are contract-
ed out on emergency basis only, noting the funds are budgeted under Contractural Services.
He added part of that money is spent for the Marin Conservation Corps for the continuation
of the Terra Linda program for low limbing more street trees so there will not be a street
sweeper problem.
Member/Councilmember Thayer moved and Member/Councilmember Shippey seconded, to approve in
concept, the budget for Public Works Department, in amount of $5,226,435.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
GAS TAX - Page 83
Public Works Director Bernardi stated as part of the funding for the streets right-of-way,
staff is presenting recommended projects for Gas Tax Expenditures as follows: Miscellaneous
Right -of -Way Improvements - $50,000. Street Resurfacing - $500,000. Traffic Controller Replace-
ment - $50,000 and Operating Transfer to the General Fund - $296,000. He noted the $296,000
represents the Transfer of Gas Tax Funds to the Street Maintenance Division for the funding
of pothole patching, part of street sweeping, and all others having to do with street rights-of-
-way. He stated this is the third year where traffic controllers are being replaced, indicating
the old traffic controllers simply do not have parts made for them; he also stated new computer-
ized systems are being put in, noting Second and Third Streets are already computerized.
He stated in case of emergencies, a preempt system has been installed on Freitas Parkway to
assist the paramedics on their way to Kaiser Hospital, noting by pressing a button all signals
would turn green.
Mr. Bernardi referred to Miscellaneous Right -of Way Improvements, stating funds are set aside
for maintenance where problems arise on any construction the City does not anticipate. He
showed pictures of storm drains needing repair, noting one is on Eucalyptus Lane and one on
Linden Lane.
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In response to Councilmember Shippey's question on Proposition 111, Mr. Bernardi responded
that the first year the City will receive about $211,000 free and unencumbered. The following
years disbursements to different cities will be dependent upon a series of planning issues
having to be resolved, with a Countywide Traffic Mitigation Fees Program set up, a committee
set up to determine whether or not a city has met its transportation goals so by the time .
the City is ready for the second year's funding, the whole system will be in place. He added
it is a very complex issue. Mr. Bernardi recommended that monies be put into street resurfacing.
Member/Councilmember Boro moved and Member/Councilmember Breiner seconded, to conceptually
approve the budget for Gas Tax, in amount of $896,000.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
POLICE DEPARTMENT - Page 55 to 59
City Manager Nicolai stated in spite of the City being able to address some of the priority
issues regarding manpower needs, the City has succeeded in addressing other problems; (1)
the five-year funding program for a new radio system and (2) there is a new division called,
the Management Information System Division. She stated most of the expenses in this budget
are one-time startup costs with extra temporary help for data input and the acquisition of
individual equipment for each department.
Ms. Nicolai stated they have attempted to address issues, such as in March where they were
committed to the idea of having the Streets Crime Unit, but unfortunately while there are
needs in this area, she did not feel comfortable about recommending anything until the City
has an assured revenue source, noting commitments become ongoing commitments.
Ms. Nicolai stated the data base needs to get on-line, then they will look at the more detailed
analysis of the types calling for services and use the management information system to address
the needs of San Rafael, and not use arbitrary statistics, given all the restraints presently
in different departments. Ms. Nicolai stated this budget does not include an increase in staff,
but does address other issues considered to be priorities.
Police Chief Ingwersen stated the budget is status quo, noting the biggest addition is the
Management Information System Division.
Councilmember Breiner asked if the City's radio system is compatible with the County's and
Police Chief Ingwersen responded affirmatively.
Councilmember Breiner asked about drug arrests money and whether the Police Department should
lobby for some of the money to be used for additional people for the purpose of drug arrests.
Police Chief Ingwersen responded this is the same issue they are facing within their budget
which is the ongoing availability of money. He said presently there is $400,000 in seizures
but that this does not mean that all of those funds are in their hands, noting there are various
processes the money goes through, and that once that money is spent it is gone and not guaran-
teed to be ongoing.
ADMINISTRATION - Pages 58 & 59
Councilmember Breiner commended Police Chief Ingwersen in doing a fine job in utilizing senior
citizens on a volunteer basis in the last few years, and stated in some communities some of
the senior volunteers are park rangers who cruise parks in the community; she asked if this
could be done.
Police Chief Ingwersen stated he would look into it, but pointed out there could be a liability
setback.
TECHNICAL SERVICES - Page 60 & 61
Police Chief Ingwersen stated the greatest change in the department is the automation system.
INVESTIGATION - Page 62 & 63
In response to Councilmember Breiner's question on overtime, asking if it was due to the acti-
vity in the Canal area, Police Chief Ingwersen responded the overtime account brings the appro-
priation in line with actual expenditures. He stated this is an area that for the last several
years, have been underbudgeted at budget time, causing the department to go over budget during
the year. He noted that as of the May 31, report in investigations, $23,200 was appropriated
with $75,165 expended.
Mr. Mel Beck, referred to "internal investigations" and asked if it was addressed in the budget.
Police Chief Ingwersen responded it was under Sergeant, page 58 under Administration.
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PATROL - Page 64
There were no questions.
Detective Corporal Harold Hutchinson, President of the San Rafael Police Association, referred
to the Investigations report, stating the Association is concerned that the staffing of the
Police Department constitutes a safety factor for the officers. He then gave statistics of
how they have not come up to specific levels in the last 10 years, and reviewed budgets dating
back to 1980 to the present year. He stated they are suffering from the lack of staffing,
and are concerned about the safety issues. He noted the Association stands behind the Chief
of Police's request for additional personnel, indicating they are not being adversarial; and
asked Council to bring department staffing up to an adequate level.
Mayor Mulryan stated after the budget is adopted, Council will look at all the needs in order
of priority and couple this with the extended Revenue Options; he noted the Police Department
staffing is of a high concern.
Mr. Mel Beck referred to an article that stated there was a 60% increase in crime in San Rafael
within the last 10 years, noting the police are not doing well. He said within the State for
the same 10 year period that crime has been reduced 12.6%, and asked why is crime going up
in San Rafael? He noted when talking with people about spending money for additional police-
men, the people preferred having the money used toward communication and training of people
who are getting into crime.
Mayor Mulryan stated the City and Police Department are trying to meet the challenge in a
number of ways, such as communicating directly with the people, learning their language and
getting to know them better.
Detective Corporal Hutchinson referred to the figures Mr. Beck spoke of, stating the article
was a misstatement, noting there was an increase of calls for service in that time period,
and not an increase in crime.
Ms. Victoria DeWitt asked if patrol cars give out parking violations to people parking in
red zones, and Police Chief Ingwersen stated it depended on the area. He stated there is parking
enforcement in certain portions of the City where the meter enforcement officers respond.
He stated patrol car officers respond to red zone parking violations in locations where there
are no meters. Ms. DeWitt suggested raising the $12 fine for parking in a red zone to increase
revenues.
Councilmember Shippey stated they are all sensitive to the needs of the people, and referred
to education. He asked if the office at Northgate Shopping Center is used for crime prevention
and education, and Police Chief Ingwersen responded it is an ongoing program.
Councilmember Thayer thanked the Special Crimes Task Force for the good job being done in
the Canal area. She referred to San Rafael's needs in having more police officers, stating
that in the County of Marin San Rafael is unique, having twice the amount of population during
the daytime because San Rafael is the hub of the County. In regard to the Police Association's
request to have more staff, Councilmember Thayer stated Council would like to see that happen,
noting the department is three down every year. However, she noted this is going on in other
departments as well, indicating the Public Works Department is in dire straits because of
the lack of manpower. She said they will need to look at revenue options to take care of these
needs.
Councilmember Boro stated this is not a status quo budget, noting it shows an increase of
half a million dollars in salaries and a $200,000 increase in benefits, indicating over the
past two years that number is over a million dollars in salaries and almost $400,000 in bene-
fits. He stated that the Police Department was successful in receiving comparable pay, with
the Council's support, knowing the officers were carrying a large load. He stated it is import-
ant to note that both sides of the equation are acknowledged, indicating the City has taken
a lot of steps over the last two years to address the whole issue. He said Council has to
look at other sources of revenue before they can add new police officers, but noted it would
not just be a matter of adding police officers to do more, but to do things differently with
new money. He stated there are different issues the City faces today than before, that the
Special Task Force created is a new way to deal with current problems, there is a need for
foot patrols in different parts of town and that there are concerns about issues happening
on Fourth Street. Councilmember Boro wanted to be on record that when funding is available
and discussions are held on staffing, he would be asking Police Chief Ingwersen and his depart-
ment to be creative as to how any new resources are to be deployed.
POLICE MISCELLANEOUS - Page 65
In response to Councilmember Boro's question as to how the computer power is to be deployed,
Police Chief Ingwersen stated they will be able to bring to Council, proper statistical infor-
mation upon which they will be able to make good judgments and discuss alternatives as to
staffing levels and assignments. He stated they will begin with the dispatch system which
would be completely automated going through its various stages; the records system, crime
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analysis, investigations and patrol followup, etc. The system will also make management infor-
mation accessible to the department.
Councilmember Breiner referred to the maintenance agreement, asking that there be a cap on
the costs so there would not be an overpaying of a multiple maintenance agreement throughout
City Hall.
Mr. Mel Beck referred to "networking", and asked if the City looked at other cities on how
their records are kept so there are no duplications. He felt some of the printers looked
high to him, and asked to be of assistance to the City.
Police Chief Ingwersen stated that CMSI is the City's inhouse computer experts, noting they
provide both hardware and software. He stated the system will be able to network with all
State and Federal systems.
Member/Councilmember Shippey moved and Member/Councilmember Boro seconded, to approve in concept,
the budget for the Police Department, in amount of $7,321,810.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
FIRE - CONSOLIDATED - Pages 66, 67 & 68
City Manager Nicolai stated the Fire Department budget is status quo. She stated the division
includes funding for Disastrous Preparedness and the Hazardous Materials program.
Mayor Mulryan stated he is proud of the Fire Department, noting it has changed over the years,
and cited the positive features of the Paramedics and Hazardous Materials programs, as well
as the increase of inspections throughout the community.
Councilmember Breiner asked if the money allotted for reconstruction of Fire Station #6 is
enough to proceed this year. Ms. Nicolai responded it will be, noting expenses will not be
totally incurred this year either.
Councilmember Shippey asked if paramedics are stationed at Station #1, and Fire Chief Marcucci
responded affirmatively.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS - Page 69
There were no questions on this item.
CITY - Page 70 & 71
Fire Chief Marcucci stated that personnel in the Fire Department is partially funded through
CSA #19, the Paramedic budget and Hazardous Materials program.
Ms. Victoria DeWitt asked about a plan for disaster preparedness and Fire Chief Marcucci stated
they are in the midst of developing a program which was successful in Sunnyvale. He stated
Sunnyvale has a full-time person who manages disaster preparedness, noting San Rafael will
try to do it differently, and stated he hopes the project will be completed in a couple of
months.
Elissa Giambastiani, Executive Director of San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, stated in conversa-
tion with the Watsonville Chamber of Commerce, it was noted when the October 17th earthquake
hit their area, the Chamber became an emergency center. She asked to meet with Fire Chief
Marcucci, to discuss the role the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce could play.
CSA #19 - Pages 72 & 73
Councilmember Shippey asked about the County of Marin's agreement renewal process and Fire
Chief Marcucci responded he meets with the County every year, this year's date is July 12th,
and stated a figure has already been agreed upon.
Councilmember Boro asked if the Fire Department's radios are comparable with the Police Depart-
ment's and Fire Chief Marcucci responded both radios are on different frequencies; the Police
Department is on a lower band and the Fire Department is on a higher band. He stated the radio
does not allow the Fire and Police Departments to communicate radiowise, but noted the dispatch
centers can communicate with one another. He noted there has never been a problem with radio
communications.
EMS - Pages 74 & 75
There were no comments on this item.
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HAZARDOUS MATERIALS - Pages 76 & 77
Fire Chief Marcucci stated they are now getting some sites cleaned up, and hopefully within
a year or two everything will be squared away.
Member/Councilmember Boro moved and Member/Councilmember Thayer seconded, to approve the Fire
Department budget, in concept, in amount of $6,875,568.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
BOND RETIREMENT - Page 79
Finance Director Coleman stated there are two remaining general bond obligations, noting that
Terra Linda Recreation has an outstanding balance of $18,000 that will be paid off next year
and $675,000 is still left in the Open Space bond issue to be paid off in 1993.
Member/Councilmember Breiner moved and Member/Councilmember Thayer seconded, to approve the
Bond Retirement budget, in concept, in amount of $195,595.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
NONDEPARTMENTAL BUDGET - Page 81
Finance Director Coleman stated these are costs that are generally consolidated in Non -depart-
mental since they do not apply to a single department. He stated the medical insurance for
retirees is a net cost to the City and that part of the cost of paying for retiree insurance
is paid for through the retirement contribution rate; the total cost is $240,000. He stated
the insurance account is quite a bit less than it was this year because the cost of liability
insurance has been reduced by $120,000. Animal control cost has increased from last year.
Member/Councilmember Boro moved and Member/Councilmember Shippey seconded, to approve the
Nondepartmental Budget, in concept, in amount of $702,850.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SPECIAL PROJECTS - Page 80
City Manager Nicolai stated Special Projects is a combination of capital/capital outlay project
list, and noted most of these are in various stages of completion, noting many were budgeted
last year and are in progress, thus needing to be carried over. She focused on Fire Station
#6, indicating this is Phase One of a two year project, and that the estimates from the archi-
tect will be close to $450,000. She stated given the design phase and bid process, they should
be under construction at the beginning of the year and commit funding for the remainder of
the project in the next fiscal year.
Councilmember Boro referred to Falkirk and Boyd House and Ms. Nicolai stated the architects
have agreed that there is a reduced level of repair that would be appropriate. She stated
they have not gotten an estimate on the work as yet, but hopes it will come in at a lesser
cost than what is shown. Given the lists of what is needed to be done, if the bids come in
less, Ms. Nicolai asked if Council wanted her to assume that any leftover would continue
to remain for Falkirk or the Boyd House, or if she should come back to Council. Mayor Mulryan
responded she is to come back to Council.
In response to Councilmember Thayer's question about seismic repairs being as stringent as
those required in the Downtown area on reinforced masonry buildings, Director of Public Works
Bernardi stated it is a different kind of repair. He stated Falkirk has a brick foundation
and brick chimney with the rest of the building being a wood structure which reacts better
in an earthquake. He stated they are trying to prevent the chimney from shearing off and falling
through the roof when an event is being held.
Ms. Nicolai stated the seismic repairs for both Falkirk and Boyd House are only for the chimneys.
Councilmember Shippey stated although most reinforced masonry buildings are located in the
Downtown area, there are many private residences made of wood frame stucco with chimneys.
He asked if this posed a danger and if the City had to deal with these as well.
Ms. Nicolai responded this is a private issue, noting the City is concerned because of public
events being held in public facilities having massive numbers of people. She stated the State
has mandated repairs for other buildings which tend to be more commercial buildings having
higher occupancy of a certain size, whose damage could hurt the public walking down the street.
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Member/Councilmember Breiner moved and Member/Councilmember Boro seconded, to approve the
Special Projects budget, in concept, in amount of $866,000.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
PARKING DISTRICT - Page 82
City Manager Nicolai stated there is revenue coming in from parking which funds the meter
enforcement people and three-quarters of a meter repair person. In addition, because bonds
were paid off which were sold by the District, there are new revenues available in the Parking
District. She stated they are recommending that this be kept for parking purposes, noting
there are a couple of projects they are asking to be funded. Ms. Nicolai stated a request
for funds is shown in the budget two times in error; Supplies and Services where they are
requesting $15,000 for steam cleaning and restriping at the Third and "A" Garage, and Capital
Outlay where it states $25,000 to paint and steam -clean the Third and "A" Parking Structure.
She noted it should be a total of $25,000; steam cleaning being $15,000 and painting, $10,000.
Ms. Nicolai mentioned they would like to have some relamping on some structures to improve
lighting and for energy saving purposes.
Ms. Nicolai stated they are in discussions with the Police Department on how to deal with
the vandalism and complaints at the garage. She stated if agreed, money could be used from
this fund.
Staff was asked to bring a report back to Agency/Council on the parking structure rentals.
Member/Councilmember Breiner moved and Member/Councilmember Thayer seconded, to approve the
Parking District budget, in concept, in amount of $425,200.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Redevelopment Agency Consolidated - Pages 85, 86 & 87
Assistant Executive Director Ours stated personnel remains the same, with an increase in Operat-
ing Costs from $702,000 to $943,000 which reflects more participation in City costs by the
Redevelopment Agency. He noted there is also an increase in some items because staff anticipates
when the library project takes place, there will be costs associated with the acquisition
of land and appraisals, including legal services. He stated last year the Agency spent 22%
of all the monies ever spent throughout the whole life of the Agency, indicating money was
expended on buying land and different projects, noting there are less projects this year.
Mr. Ours stated the Downtown merchants are happy with the Downtown programs as well as the
Farmers Market.
City Manager Nicolai referred to the Downtown Master Plan, stating some of these are remainders
of phases the Agency has been working on for several years, noting the costs listed are what
staff expects to pay during the year, as the Downtown Plan was one of its priorities.
Councilmember Breiner asked for a list of all City -owned properties in the Redevelopment area,
the land costs and what the use and income is for each at this time.
Councilmember Shippey referred to Capital Improvements and asked for explanation on what the
Blue House Renovation is and the Lindaro 20-A Underground. Mr. Ours responded that the Blue
House is the office building the Redevelopment Agency is located in, noting the money would
be spent on repairs to the building. He stated that money toward the Lindaro 20-A Underground
project is for the PG&E retail site, and is money that has to be put forward in combination
with PG&E's portion of $1 million to underground utilities in the area. He indicated the $80,000
is not reimbursable.
Councilmember Boro referred to Operating Costs in Personnel, Benefits and Supplies, stating
the amount has gone from $357,000 to $658,000, and asked why.
City Manager Nicolai responded there has been a new person added to staff because of the increas-
ed activity in the Redevelopment Agency, including the impact of personnel use with existing
Public Works and PlanninDepartment's staff. She stated the cost is reflected in Revenue
to the City, page 8, of b00,000.
In response to Councilmember Thayer's question on $75,000 being spent for housing, Mr. Ours
stated at present, the Agency is having a problem with the County where they are trying to
free some monies claimed by the Agency for housing they have not received. He noted the Agency
has spent over $2,600,000 over the last three years on housing which has been taken from other
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Special Joint) 6/26/90 BUDGET HEARING Page 8
. ,SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (SpE l Joint) 7/16/90 BUDGET HEAF , Page 9
projects. He stated staff is trying to work out getting money back which is owed to the Agency
from the County. He stated the $75,000 is money set aside for the Housing Consultant, the
Rental Rebate Program, if there is one this year, and for litigation services. He noted it
is a minimum amount.
Member/Councilmember Boro moved and Member/Councilmember Thayer seconded, to approve in concept,
the budget for the Redevelopment Agency, in amount of $6,640,000.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Page V - Outside Requests
City Manager Nicolai stated requests from the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce for $20,000 (Rede-
velopment) and Mediation Services for $11,000 (Redevelopment) both are within the program
goals of the Agency. She stated the Mediation Services serve a tremendous amount of home -resi-
dential issues in landlord -tenant disputes, and has been a very valuable service to the City
of San Rafael for many years. She stated a letter was received from the Rental Rebate Program
asking the City if they wanted to participate in the matching fund of $17,000. She stated
there is a request from the Marin Childcare Council (Project Care) for $7,000 which is not
included in the budget, noting last year the City funded a childcare program. She stated given
all the other City's needs, it is difficult to justify recommending the amount of $7,000.
Ms. Terry DeMartini, Executive Director of Project Care for Children, stated she came to the
City feeling that for the past 11 years they have serviced San Rafael residents along with
County residents, noting this to be the first time they have asked for the City's help. She
stated the support is for the family day care recruitment training program which services
residents in their neighborhoods. She stated they receive over 300 requests for childcare
every month with half of the children under the age of two years, noting a number are from
San Rafael.
Councilmember Boro responded by stating he has been working on the Childcare Task Force along
with Recreation Director McNamee and Ms. DeMartini, but supported the City Manager's position,
noting the City has many other potential requests which are difficult to fund. However, he
stated as they go forward, there will be a recommendation for a type of Task Force to deal
with childcare issues.
Councilmember Boro stated last year the City had a combination of matching funds where the
City put up x -amount of dollars with the Chamber of Commerce doing the same and asked Ms.
Giambastiani if they planned to repeat this. Ms. Giambastiani responded at least one-third
will be matched.
Member/Councilmember Breiner moved and Member/Councilmember Thayer seconded, to allocate $15,335
to the Rental Rebate Program for one year, $20,000 to the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce and
$11,000 to Mediation Services, to be funded within the Redevelopment Agency budget.
AYES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Shippey, Thayer & Chairman/Mayor Mulryan
NOES: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: MEMBERS/COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ADD ITEM
PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION - File 102 x 9-3-14
Chairman/Mayor Mulryan presented Deputy City Clerk Lola Sniffen with a Resolution of Apprecia-
tion for her six years of service with the City.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 PM.
JEANNE M�f NC NI,ity erk/Agency y Secretary
APPROVED THIS DAY OF 1990
CHAIRMAN/MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Special Joint) 6/26/90 BUDGET HEARING Page 9