HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 1988-07-18SRCC MINUTES (Regula, 7/18/88 Page 1
IN CONFERENCE ROOM 201 OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, JULY 18, 1988
AT 7:00 PM.
Regular Meeting:
CLOSED SESSION
1. CLOSED SESSION TO DISCUSS LITIGATION AND LABOR NEGOTIATIONS - File
1.4.1.a
No. 88-16(a) - (#7). No. 88-16(b) - (#2).
No reportable action was taken.
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, JULY 18, 1988
AT 8:00 PM.
Regular Meeting: Present: Lawrence E. Mulryan, Mayor
Albert J. Boro, Councilmember
Dorothy L. Breiner, Councilmember
Gary R. Frugoli, Councilmember
Joan Thayer, Councilmember
Absent: None
Also Present: Pamela J. Nicolai, City Manager; Gary T. Ragghianti, City
Attorney; Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Frugoli seconded, to approve
the recommended action on the following Consent Calendar items:
2.
3.
4.
W
7.
x
Item
Approval of Minutes of Special
Meeting of July 5, 1988 and
Regular Meetings of June 20 and
July 5, 1988 (CC)
Resolution of Intention Re
Underground Utility District
in the Vicinity of Montecito
Shopping Center and Adjoining
Areas (PW) - File 6-47 x (SRRA)
R-267
Report on Bid Opening and Award
of Contract - Pickleweed Park
Improvements (Child Care
Portables) - Phase I (PW) -
File 4-1-419
Acceptance of Street Right -of -Way
on San Pedro Road Near Biscayne
Drive (PW) - File 2-5-27
Resolution Approving Parcel Map
of Lot Line Adjustment - End of
Clorinda Avenue (PW) -
File 5-6-5 x 5-1-244
Recommended Action
Approved Minutes as submitted.
RESOLUTION NO. 7758 - CALLING
A PUBLIC HEARING TO DETERMINE
WHETHER PUBLIC NECESSITY, HEALTH,
SAFETY, OR WELFARE REQUIRES THE
FORMATION OF AN UNDERGROUND UTILITY
DISTRICT IN THE VICINITY OF
MONTECITO SHOPPING CENTER, SAD'
RAFAEL CREEK, GRAND AVENUE AND
SECOND STREET
RESOLUTION NO. 7759 - AWARD OF
CONTRACT FOR "PICKLEWEED PARK
IMPROVEMENTS - PHASE I" TO
MAGGIORA AND GHILOTTI (Low Bidder,
in amount of $118,950)
RESOLUTION NO. 7760 - ACCEPTING
CONVEYANCE OF PARCELS "D" AND
"E", ADJACENT TO SAN PEDRO ROAD
AT BISCAYNE DRIVE, FROM N.Y. CAL
INDUSTRIAL CORPORATION, AS SHOWN
ON MAP ENTITLED "MAP OF MARIN
BAY UNIT ONE", SAN RAFAEL,
CALIFORNIA, AP #184-132-05 AND
06
RESOLUTION NO. 7761 - APPROVING
PARCEL MAP S87-7 (SHOWING LOT
LINE ADJUSTMENTS OF LOTS 16, 15,
10 & 11 OAKWOOD SUBDIVISION UNIT
1)
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 1
SRCC MINUTES (Regula 7/18/88 Page 2
9. UP82-75(b), UP86-101 and ED86-
110 - Negative Declaration and
Revised Conditions to Reflect
Council Action Upholding Appeal
of Planning Commission Action to
Deny Project Without Prejudice;
100 Windward Way; Exogan Holding
N.V. Owner; David Mathew,
Appellant; AP 9-330-03 (Pl) -
File 5-1-295 x 10-5 x 10-7
RESOLUTION NO. 7762 - UPHOLDING
APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION'S
ACTION TO DENY WITHOUT PREJUDICE
USE PERMIT AND ENVIRONMENTAL AND
DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT APPLICATIONS
FOR A 17,160 SQ. FT. LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL/WAREHOUSE BUILDING
AT 100 WINDWARD WAY
10. Addendum to Contract with Moore, RESOLUTION NO. 7763 - ADOPTING
Iacofano, Goltsman to Prepare AN ADDENDUM TO THE CONTRACT OF
Final General Plan Maps (Pl) - MOORE, IACOFANO, GOLTSMAN
File 4-3-161 (hereinafter, Consultant)
EXHIBIT H (Estimated cost not
to exceed $11,155)
13. Report on Bid Opening and Award
of Bid for One (1) Mailing
Machine (GS) - File 4-2-228
14.
15.
Report on Bid Opening and Award
of Bids for One (1) Mini -Van and
One 1 Pick-up Truck for Public
Works Department (GS) - File
4-2-227
Report on Bid Opening and Award
of Bid for One (1) Portable
Radio, Receiver & Accessories for
Police Department (GS) - File
4-2-229
16. Resolution Creating Position of
Parttime Law Clerk in the City
Attorney's Office (CA) -
File 7-3 x 9-3-16
17. Claim for Damages:
a. Joyce Marie Dufficy (RA)
Claim No. 3-1-1347
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro,
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSTAINED: COUNCILMEMBERS: Thayer
RESOLUTION NO. 7764 - AUTHORIZING
THE PURCHASE OF A MAILING MACHINE
SYSTEM FOR USE BY THE GENERAL
SERVICES DEPARZMENT FROM
DIVERSIFIED BUSINESS SYSTEMS,
INC. (for amount of $8,534.80,
low bidder)
RESOLUTION NO. 7765 - AUTHORIZING
PURCHASE OF ONE 1 TON PICK-UP
TRUCK (in amount of $19,448.86)
ONE MINIVAN (in amount of
$13,716.40, from S & C Ford, San
Francisco, lowest responsible
bidder that meets specifications)
Item pulled off Agenda prior to
meeting; to be placed on agenda
for meeting of August 1, 1988.
RESOLUTION NO. 7766 - CREATING
POSITION OF LAW CLERK (Parttime,
salary range between $12 and $15
per hour - Total appropriation
$13,000)
Approved City Attorney's
recommendation for denial of claim.
Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
(from Minutes of Special and Regular
Meetings of July 5, 1988 only,
due to absence from meetings).
5. RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO VACATE DRAINAGE EASEMENT - AP #9-290-16
(HELIPORT SITE) (PW) - File 2-12 x 211
Councilmember Breiner asked to have this item held over to the next
meeting so that Mrs. Jean Starkweather would be able to look at the
area to check if there is wildlife habitat value to the drainage ease-
ment.
Public Works Director Bernardi stated the action tonight is to adopt
the Resolution of Intention and set a Public Hearing for August 15,
1988 to take public testimony regarding the abandonment of the easement
and will not affect Mrs. Starkweather's investigation of the area.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 2
SRCC MINTUES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 3
RESOLUTION NO. 7767 - RESOLUTION OF INTENTION TO VACATE DRAINAGE
EASEMENT IN EAST SAN RAFAEL, PART OF KERNER
BOULEVARD ASSESSMENT DISTRICT, AP #9-290-16,
(Heliport Site) (and set a public hearing on
the matter for August 15, 1988)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
8. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE COUNTY OF MARIN, CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AND CITY OF NOVATO CONCERNING
FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR EASTSIDE ARTERIAL (McINNIS DRIVE) (PW) - File
4-13-74
Councilmember Thayer stated the wetlands should be considered in the
study and be a high priority item, including the Northwest Pacific
Right -of -Way, and asked staff if citizens would be involved with this
study.
Traffic Engineer Rumsey stated an Overview Committee has been estab-
lished and the Marin Conservation League is a part of that committee.
In discussion of a two-lane roadway, Councilmember Frugoli stated
the study would dictate the alignment of the road and not the lanes,
noting it does not interfere with wetlands and the railroad
rights-of-way, and where the alignment between the roads would lead
from the City to the County, including the City of Novato.
City Manager Nicolai stated this is a technical report evaluating
the environmental issues, alignment alternatives, pros and cons and
its relationship to the Northwest Pacific Railroad Right -of -Way. Once
the document (feasibility study) has been completed, meetings will
be scheduled and citizens can then participate in the meetings.
Councilmember Thayer was concerned that citizens be involved from
inception. She indicated there are valid concerns about McInnis Parkway
because of wetlands. The roadway is proposed for the Eastside of the
railroad tracks, and noted it might interfere with the Northwest Pacific
Railroad Right -of -Way, including particular neighborhoods.
Suggestion was made to inform groups interested in the alternative
alignments early on to submit their written comments to the Committee
and to make the meetings open with notice to the public.
City Manager Nicolai stated if Councilmember Thayer felt the Consultant
responsible for assessing the scope of work has something missing,
it might be critical to have that included so the scope of work outlines
all of the issues which should be addressed.
Responding to Councilmember Breiner's concern whether two alternative
alignments connecting the easterly end of the Merrydale overcrossing
would imply a west of the railroad right-of-way alternative alignment,
Mr. Rumsey stated it would not, noting they would look at connecting
to the Merrydale overcrossing, but stated their preliminary studies
show it would be very difficult. He noted the easterly alignment
would much better serve the Civic Center North projects and Marin
Ranch Airport. Planning Director Moore noted on the westside there
are topography difficulties on the Scettrini property, indicating
it is very steep immediately north of the railroad tracks, and if
the roadway continued on the westside, it would mean taking a substantial
portion of Contempo Marin Mobile Home Park.
RESOLUTION NO. 7768 - AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE COUNTY OF MARIN, CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, AND
THE CITY OF NOVATO CONCERNING A FEASIBILITY
STUDY FOR McINNIS DRIVE (Eastside Arterial).
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 3
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 4
Staff to investigate possibility of a westside arterial. Roadway proposed
for 2 -lanes with a 100 foot take for the future.
11. REPORT ON NORTHGATE MALL SPACE FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT CRIME PREVENTION
OFFICE, DONATED BY MACE RICH COMPANY (PD) - File 4-10-221 x 9-3-30
Councilmember Frugoli emphasized the fact that this office in the
Northgate Mall Shopping Center is not a manned 24-hour sub -station,
and also commended Mace Rich Company for its donation.
RESOLUTION NO. 7769 - AUTHORIZING THE SIGNING OF A LICENSE AGREEMENT
WITH MACE RICH COMPANY (for donation of office
to the San Rafael Police Department at the North -
gate Mall for a ten (10) year period for $1.00
per year)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
12. CONCEPTUAL APPROVAL OF BEACH PARK CONCESSION PROPOSAL (Rec) - File
9-3-66
Councilmember Frugoli suggested that in the proposal by Irvin and
Andrea Boyle of Bayshore Sternwheeler Company, staff include a type
of food booth people can utilize while waiting for the sternwheeler
cruises, as well as having seating for the public.
Recreation Director McNamee stated this suggestion is in the long
range plan of having lunches and perhaps dinners served, indicating
food and beverage would be served in a package in the initial short
term plan.
Council accepted the staff report, without motion.
18. PUBLIC HEARING - ED87-112 - APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION CONDITIONAL
APPROVAL OF ADDITIONAL UNIT ON R-3 LOT WITH NEW PARKING; 279 UNION
STREET; DAN AND SEAN NOWELL, OWNERS; JEFF MULANAX, APPELLANT; AP
14-024-06 (P1) - File 10-7
Mayor Mulryan declared the public hearing opened, stating this item
was continued from the meeting of July 5, 1988.
Parking - Planning Director Moore stated staff checked the dimensions
of the existing conditions and that plans submitted by the Applicant
are accurate and to scale. Staff also concluded that the proposed
parking layout would work in terms of size and maneuverability. She
noted the staff report summarizes the parking requirement rationale
utilized by staff and the Planning Commission, and City Traffic Engineer
Rumsey has looked at the area. The difficulty with the proposal for
red curbing is that much of the area most needing such designation
have no curbs. Typically, before signs indicating that persons are
not to park within six feet of the center line are posted, there is
some notification to the neighborhood, because for every person who
feels such a restriction is a benefit, there is someone else who feels
that on -street parking is being diminished in the neighborhood and
therefore this needs to be looked at and evaluated prior to a signing
program. She noted Mr. Rumsey will be doing a study on this.
Accidents - Mr. Rumsey, reporting on incidents of accidents in the
area on Jewell and Union Street intersections, stated there was only
one accident reported in the last three years by a person who was
under the influence and who hit a parked vehicle. Two other minor
accidents on Union Street were reported.
Water Pressure Problems - Staff noted that the Marin Municipal Water
District indicates there are no water pressure problems at this location
but noted two people who discussed water pressure problems at a previous
meeting have homes at higher elevations on streets above Union Street.
Alleged Illegal Unit
A visual survey by the Code Enforcement Officer did not indicate a
situation of an illegal unit as reported. Ms. Moore stated staff is
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 4
SRCC MINUTES (Regula) 7/18/88 Page 5
only authorized to survey properties from public property and noted
there were no obvious signs such as mailboxes or converted garages
present. She stated throughout the neighborhood numerous properties
do not have garages, but there obviously are garages converted into
living areas. Whether or not these were done with planning permits
is unknown and Ms. Moore said it would be a major undertaking to do
a property by property analysis in the neighborhood, but that this
is expected to be done with the Neighborhood Plan as was done in Gerstle
Park. Ms. Moore stated when Gerstle Park was found to have so many
converted units, a special zoning district was adopted to "grandfather"
the situation.
Responses to Questions by Councilmembers
In response to a question by Councilmember Breiner whether the curb
to curb width of Union Street at the project site which is between
29 and 29Z feet is standard, Ms. Moore stated it is not standard today,
noting 40 feet is now typically standard and sometimes it is narrower
in hillside areas.
Councilmember Boro stated he looked at the site this morning, noting
the weeds are still in front of the detached garage indicating that
the garage is not being used. He asked how the City could enforce
use of the garage?
Ms. Moore responded automatic garage door openers could be a condition,
as well as periodic inspections, noting it is not illegal to park
in front of one's garage, but it is illegal to convert the garage
to any other kind of use. She stated two parking spaces could be used
in front of the garage but staff strives not to have a driveway or
open parking area across that much frontage of a piece of property.
Ms. Moore indicated when the Fire Department needs to get their vehicle
to the proposed unit, it would utilize Union Street but stated the
unit will be sprinklered because it is situated in back of the lot.
Public Comments
Mr. John Mahoney, resident at 22 Broadview Dr. did not agree with
the time of day staff studied Union Street, noting people work during
the day, leaving the street partially empty.
Ms. Moore responded they looked at the street during the day but pro-
vided Council with dimensions of the street taking into account parked
cars on the street.
Mr. Mahoney stated there are houses behind Union Street where people
return home from work between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM. He felt staff
should look at this area during late hours and on weekends when people
are home.
Mayor Mulryan stated this property is zoned for 15 units and the pro-
perty owner is proposing half or less units. There are questions on
safety and narrowness and a neighborhood plan, and Council urges staff
to enter into a neighborhood plan to address the issues. The question
is how do you justify the owner of the property who is asking to develop
the property with half of the legal density?
Mr. Mahoney stated there are no curbs in the area that can be marked
and Mayor Mulyran stated, where there are no curbs, signs will be
put up, but only when the neighborhood is comfortable knowing that
if it is in front of your house, one cannot park in front of it.
Mr. Jeff Mulanax, Appellant, submitted a letter to the Council (letter
is part of the record on file) which responds to a letter from Senior
Planner Jean Freitas on the General Plan, and a letter from Planning
Director Anne Moore covering several sections of the appeal.
Mr. Mulanax urged the Council to consider having a neighborhood plan
for the Montecito neighborhood, and asked that development be halted
until such a plan is conceived.
Ms. Moore noted the area was probably zoned R-3 since the 1950's and
that she was not aware of any rezoning within the last 15 or 20 years.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 5
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 6
Mr. Dan Nowell, Applicant, stated the removal of the garage structure
would create uncovered parking and from a design viewpoint does nothing
for the neighborhood.
Mr. Nowell referred to staff visiting the site from 8:00 AM to 5:00
PM, noting he met with a staff member at 7:00 PM in February to survey
the parking situation. He read his letter submitted to Council which
covered the parking plan proposed, noting his parcel is almost twice
as large as the majority of neighboring parcels which creates more
on -street parking from his curb frontage. Mr. Nowell stated the garage
in question is not being used for storage now and will be used as
a garage for the proposed structure. He then submitted pictures he
took of the neighboring parcels where people are using their driveways
instead of their garages, as his tenants have chosen to do.
Mr. Nowell stated he cannot solve the problems of the neighborhood,
noting the plan proposed is sensitive to the neighborhood, and indicated
he has a long list of conditions the Planning Commission and Planning
Department have required of him. He noted he could not afford to meet
additional conditions to accommodate major revisions to the parking
without completely changing the complexity of the entire project.
Mr. Nowell indicated that the intersection of Jewell and Union Streets
above and beyond his property, is a potentially dangerous intersection,
and suggested having stop signs installed at the intersection of Jewell
and Union Streets.
Mr. Nowell concluded he has never been contacted by the neighborhood
association that has just been formed, indicating they are vocal in
opposition to his proposal but have not asked for his input into the
neighborhood.
Mr. Clifford Elbing of 17 Broadview Court, stated he disagreed with
the staff report on the water pressure issue.
Mr. Steve Levin of 51 Broadview Court, referred to the Minutes of
July 5, 1988 which did not include a fire truck attempting to get
up the road two years ago and could not because of parking at the
corner, causing the truck to ram its way up the street.
There being no further comments, Mayor Mulryan closed the public hear-
ing.
Councilmember Frugoli asked for a change of priority in the list of
neighborhood plans and asked that Montecito be pushed up.
Councilmember Thayer stated this neighborhood has been designated
as high density in the General Plan but noted because of the parking
situation it should not be. She suggested it be changed to medium
density, and agreed that Montecito should be pushed up on the priority
list.
Councilmember Thayer stated, as a Council they should be doing something
with people putting up illegal units on their premises that may or
may not be non -conforming in terms of size, and later wanting them
automatically legalized with variances. She suggested that staff work
on this and a fine be attached when people in violation come forward.
Councilmember Breiner suggested that the newly formed neighborhood
association help by informing the City when they feel there are second
units in violation.
Councilmember Boro indicated there is a need for a neighborhood plan
and felt that it would be the neighbors who would have to police the
area such as notifiying the Police Department when they notice illegal
parking. He also stated the use on the site is justified, the zoning
is more than reasonable and parking adequate.
Councilmember Boro moved that the appeal be denied and the Planning
Commission decision be upheld, and, in addition, staff come back to
Council within one month with an indication as to priority for the
Montecito neighborhood plan.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 6
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 7
City Manager Nicolai stated the Montecito Neighborhood Plan is now
listed priority 2, and asked what Council's specific instruction is
on this item.
Councilmember Boro stated this would mean that something else would
need to be put off to get this done.
City Manager Nicolai noted if this is moved up on the priority list,
it would mean a modification to the General Plan, but would not be
accomplished in the first year because staff is now involved in zoning
and finishing up the East San Rafael Neighborhood Plan. As priority
2, the Montecito Neighborhood Plan is proposed for the third or fourth
year and could be "rolled over" in the General Plan at some future
date if the list of priorities were changed.
Councilmember Breiner noted if Council wanted to change a priority
3 to a priority 2, it would require an amendment to the General Plan
and that would preclude the Council from taking action on something
that could be far more important in the long run.
Mayor Mulryan suggested rather than asking staff to bring this item
back in one month with specific funding, that staff continue to work
with the neighborhood in taking care with some of the traffic, signing,
curbing and safety problems and come back to Council in due time with
funding suggestions, if any, to bring this higher up on the priority
list regarding adoption of the neighborhood plan.
After further discussion, Mayor Mulryan seconded the motion.
Councilmember Breiner noted she did not believe the parking as shown
would be utilized in the neighborhood and stated she would support
the motion if there were an inclusion to allow it to be brought back
requiring a different configuration if the parking is not utilized,
such as tearing down the garage and adding more landscaping and more
parking in front, noting there should be six spaces.
City Clerk Leoncini asked Councilmember Thayer due to her absence
when this item was originally brought to Council, whether she had
read all the previous material on this matter, and she responded
affirmatively, stating she has also visited the property.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Breiner, Frugoli & Thayer
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Motion failed.
Councilmember Breiner moved to hold the public hearing over for two
weeks with Planning staff to try to resolve the parking issue with
the neighborhood, property owner and staff to see if an acceptable
solution could be achieved.
After discussion, Councilmember Frugoli seconded the motion.
At the request of Councilmember Frugoli, Councilmember Breiner amended
her motion to include that staff come back to discuss the possibility
of moving up the neighborhood plan, with costs and time frame to be
presented at a later date.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
19. PUBLIC HEARING - U82 -91(d) - AND ED85-17(c) - RECONSIDERATION OF APPEAL
OF PLANNING COMMISSION DENIAL OF USE PERMIT AND DESIGN REVIEW TIME
EXTENSIONS FOR A 63 UNIT SENIOR HOUSING CONDOMINIUM PROJECT (CENTERTOWN);
855 "C" STREET; UNITED SAVINGS BANK, OWNER; JOHN CONNOLLY IV BROTHERS
REALTY GROUP, INC., APPELLANTS AND REP.; AP 11-254-18 (P1) - File
5-1-286 x 10-5 x 10-7
Mayor Mulryan declared the public hearing opened.
Mr. Michael McKaig, Consultant to United Savings Bank, spoke indicating
agreement with staff's recommendation that the Council not approve
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 7
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 8
the appeal but continue the matter to such time as requested by Applicant
for a public hearing.
There being no other public comments from the audience, Mayor Mulryan
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Frugoli seconded, to
continue consideration of appeal to such time requested by Applicant
for a public hearing.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Mayor Mulryan asked to have Item 20, Crest Marin II, heard after Item
22 involving the General Plan is completed.
21. DISCUSSION RE SEASTRAND SUBDIVISON PARCEL "B", AP #16-301-21
(CA) - File 5-1-242 x 9-3-16
City Attorney Ragghianti stated that at the last Council meeting,
Council asked that certain members of the Planning and Public Works
Department be present to address the Council on their recollection
of the manner in which Parcel "B" came into existence in the Seastrand
Subdivision. Pursuant to the Council's direction, Attorney Ragghianti
indicated he wrote to the former Director of Public Works, Ely Caillouette
noting he was present tonight. He also spoke to Mr. Dominic Selmi,
the Engineer who prepared the Tentative Map and Final Map. As Mr. Selmi,
was going to be on vacation, Ms. Judy Waller was asked to appear before
the Council. Mr. Ray Meador, former Planning Director wrote a letter
which is included in the packet. He also spoke to Dwight Winther,
Consultant with the City, and Mr. Art Brook, former Senior Planner,
who is also present tonight.
Mr. Ely Caillouette stated he reviewed the material in the file and
indicated he did not recall the initial meetings and tried to recon-
struct what happened from the material in the file.
In response to Mayor Mulryan's questioning, he stated that the difference
between the Final Map and the Tentative Map and the reason for not
showing the private recreation area,which was shown on the Tentative
Map is that the Final Map comes under the jurisdiction of the State
Subdivision Map Act and the City's Subdivision Ordinance. Both the
Map Act and the Ordinance spell out what is required to be on the
Final Map and in no case does it refer to anything involving zoning
or use of planning of the parcel. He stated it is his opinion, based
on legal advice received, that you do not use the Final Map for any
kind of zoning or any kind of use designation, noting that is the
reason they recommend that the Final Map be approved. It is a basic
Subdivision Map showing parcels of land and survey information.
Mayor Mulryan noted that the Tentative Map showed a private recreation
area and the Final Map did not, and asked if Mr. Caillouette interpreted
this as even though it did not, it had no affect on it, and was still
private recreation as set out on the Tentative Map.
Mr. Caillouette indicated he attested it (Final Map) was substantially
the same as the Tentative Map. He noted that parcel had the same
configuration as the Final Map with the only difference being it was
designated as a Parcel "B", instead of having a zoning on the parcel.
The zoning and what transpired with a Tentative Map approval is a
matter of record and can be traced by anyone by checking with the
Planning Department. He noted it was never a policy to put a zoning
or use on a Final Map, stating one looks at the Tentative Map to spell
the uses out and the Final Map is strictly a Subdivision Map.
Ms. Judy Waller stated she represented the Purdy Company in presenting
this project to the City through the Planning Commisson and City Council.
She said the designation on the Tentative Map as a private recreation
area was in no way an attempt to rezone. When the application was submitted
to the City, it was submitted as a Tentative Map, subdividing property
under an existing zoning which was R-1, B-1. There was no request
for a rezoning to a PUD which at that time would have given the City
and the developer an opportunity to specifically change the use on
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 8
SRCC MINUTES (Regul, ) 7/18/88 Page 9
that property. The fact that it was designated as private recreation
was a suggestion of the intended ultimate use; the property owner
at that time was the Purdy Company and she believed they represented
to the Planning Commission, that (the developer) was contemplating,
perhaps, a tennis facility and that is the way it was left, with no
specificity as to what would ultimately be the resolution of that
property.
Councilmember Boro stated at one point the City was offered that prop-
erty as open space and turned it down. It was then offered for poten-
tial use by the homeowners association for something similar. He asked
if Ms. Waller could recall why the City turned it down?
Ms. Waller indicated she could not. There were some physical constraints
on several different parts of the property having to do with drainage
on the property. There was an interest within the City and private
parties to see that a portion of the property, most of which now is
known as Parcel "A", be returned to a viable marsh. As a part of this,
a secondary levee was required to be built so that when the tidal
action came in over Parcel "A", it would not inundate Parcel "B" or
the area adjacent to Sea Way. This essentially formed a division in
a way the properties were to be used. At the time the property was
developed, Parcel "B" was graded only to the extent to provide drainage
to the existing drainage channel adjacent to Seaway.
Councilmember Breiner noted she asked staff for information similar
to an Environmental Impact Report but none was done, instead there
was a Negative Declaration and a Marshland study. She referred to
a report by Harding -Lawson which speaks to a portion of filled marshland
along the westside of the site to be set aside for recreational use.
She asked Ms. Waller if the parcel map came in with Parcel "B" showing
the initial recreational use because of the knowledge if it were filled
marshlands there would be potential problems.
Ms. Waller stated there always existed a potential for some adverse
affects to the people on the west side of Seaway if that property
were to be filled. The Seaway area is low and periodically the channel
has to be dredged.
Councilmember Breiner stated the report refers to several erosion
gullys and seepage zones in the hillside area at the north end of
the site and asked Ms. Waller if this was the same property. Ms. Waller
responded negatively, that the property Mrs. Breiner spoke of was
northeast of the existing Bay Way, which is probably the second or
third lot in and perhaps underneath a portion of the first hillside
lot.
Art Brook, former Senior Planner with the City, recalled a discussion
when the Tentative Map was discussed at a staff level before it was
presented for the final Planning Commission approval. He stated at
that time, then Planning Director Herb Hotchner discussed the possibility
of requiring that Parcel "B" be integrated into the other parcels
that adjoined Bay Way or possibly restricting it with some kind of
covenant, but those suggestions were rejected based on an expectation
that it would be either privately developed as a recreational facility
as an independent parcel or the possibility that a home might be developed
on the northern end of the parcel where the utility line veers away
from Sea Way.
Mayor Mulryan noted the property currently has four large mounds of
debris and it does not look like the large tractor on that site is
being used to simply pick up vegetation.
Mrs. Jan Able, resident of Sea Way pointed out that the sewer pump
station is located outside of her home,indicating she inquired of
the workers if the sewer system could handle two more homes she was
told that upgrading of the sewer system would need to take place first.
She mentioned no building should be allowed on Parcel "B". She also
mentioned the General Plan, stating that Parcel "B" should be considered
as Wetlands only and requested the sewer be checked before anything
is built on the property.
Terrel Mason, Attorney for Seastrand Homeowners Association, referred
to Councilmember Frugoli's alternative brought out at a previous meeting
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 9
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 10
on Seastrand, that the City consider acquiring Seastrand Parcel "B"
as a Wetlands designation or having it converted to a Wetlands desig-
nation.
Mr. Mason indicated that residents of Seastrand were disturbed by
the grading of the property over the July 4th weekend, that disrupted
the habitat and environment. He stated the City had issued a recommenda-
tion to the Building Department that any further application of a
building permit be "stayed" pending further hearing, yet Mr. Len Nibbi
or one of his associates felt that the grading was not part of that
process, and Mr. Mason noted this is a violation of the intent or
the spirit of that order by the Council.
Referring to Mr. Nibbi's letter dated July 5, 1988, Mr. Mason stated
it indicated that a four week delay is highly unusual. Mr. Mason stated
because the legality of the lot is in question, four weeks time to
look at the circumstances is not unreasonable.
He pointed out that the current property owner, Mrs. Townley -Peeler,
was originally an investor with the Innisfree Companies as a limited
partner in obtaining this property in exchange for a portion of her
investment with the original subdivider. He commented at best she
cannot be painted as a bonafide purchaser for value whose rights on
this property would dictate that she is not in an "arm's length trans-
action" with the original subdivider. They still contend there has
been a violation of the Subdivision Map Act insofar as the creation
of that lot.
Referring to a memorandum provided by City Attorney Ragghianti on
May 12, 1988 regarding discussions with various individuals, including
members of the Innisfree Companies who stated the parcel had always
been zoned for single residential properties, Mr. Mason indicated
he had several residents of Seastrand development present tonight
who could testify to exact opposite status and that it was represented
that Parcel "B" was to be maintained as an open space area. They are,
Basso family, George Mueller, Sandy Greenblatt and the Lupe's.
Regarding the status of the Notice of Violation procedure, Mr. Mason
believed there is a basis upon which the violation procedure can be
invoked. Mr. Caillouette spoke about the Final Map not intending what
the use or zoning might be on a particular parcel, which may be true,
but Mr. Mason believed it is possible that Final Maps do and can include
restrictions such as easements if they are set forth on the Final
Map. Granted, Mr. Mason indicated the actual designation on the Tenta-
tive Map was not shown as a restriction. He stated the intent at the
time of the presentation of the plan appeared (to be) that the property
was to be restricted and mentioned that certain members of the Council,
who at that time served on the Planning Commission, understood that
property was to be restricted and not to be developed as a residential
parcel.
Mr. Mason stated the Notice of Violation procedure is applicable in
this case, although he does have a professional disagreement with
City Attorney Ragghianti as to whether or not this is applicable.
He believed the procedure does allow the Council to again look at
this situation during the Notice of Procedure hearing that allows
Mrs. Townley, the current owner or her representative, to come before
the Council and produce evidence at that time that surrounded develop-
ment of the lot in 1981. Otherwise, Mr. Mason stated the building
permit issues, the remedies available to the Seastrand Homeowners
Association, a legal remedy involving an injunction, puts the burden
on the homeowners which they feel should not be placed on them. He
indicated the mistake was done through the Planning process involving
the City and this is the opportunity for the City Council to remedy
this particular mistake.
Mr. Leo Andrade, President of Afco Developments, one of two corporate
partners that initially developed the Seastrand project with the other
called the Innisfree Corporation located in Sausalito who divided
their responsibilities, indicated he was involved with the initial
acquisition of the project and was manager for the development. The
Innisfree Corporation for the most part, was responsible for marketing
of the project. He stated they bought the project after the map was
recorded and therefore cannot shed any light as to what transpired
in the map process. Since the Seastrand joint venture intended to
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 10
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 11
sell lots as opposed to building houses and selling houses, they were
required by the State of California to get a public report as a condi-
tion to offering the lots for sale to the public. He referred to one
of the provisions in the public report obtained, which was given to
every prospective buyer, and the buyer must sign a receipt that he
has received the Public Report, noting the following under "Uses and
Zoning":'The City of San Rafael advises as follows: The property
is zoned R-1, B-1. This designation permits single family residential
uses, accessory uses and limited care facilities that function as
a single family use. The adjacent properties are also zoned for single
family uses, R-1 to the North and the West; R-1, B-1 to the East.
There is one exception, a 4.4 acre parcel at the end of Bay Way is
zoned U- Unclassified. This area is designated for residential use
in the General Plan and any development proposal would be subject
to public review through the Use Permit procedure." He indicated
this refers to Parcel "B".
Mr. Andrade stated that everyone who sold for them was aware that
Parcel "A" was a private parcel not dedicated for public uses. He
said they had no plan at that time and contemplated the possibility
of a private recreational facility tennis court complex and anticipated
as a last possibility, the parcel be sold as residential use.
Mayor Mulryan questioned term "Parcel A" and Mr. Andrade then submitted
flyers to Council which were used at that time, noting the flyer must
have had the parcel designation reversed, and indicating the parcel
in question,whether it was shown as "A" or "B", was a private parcel
which was their intention at that time.
He indicated he did not recall having any direct conversation with
any of the purchasers of lots at Seastrand so he could not testify
what was said to people.
Mr. Barney McCarthy, associated with Innisfree Companies, submitted
letters from the four agents who sold properties at Seastrand.
Attorney Cecelia Bridges, stated the Tentative Map approved by the
Planning Commission did not include a condition concerning Parcel
"B". The graphic Tentative Map itself, the physical graphic, showed
Parcel "B" as private recreation. Parcel "B" was never designated
on the Tentative Map adopted by the Planning Commission as open space.
Unfortunately, it appears that it was represented to many area residents
as public open space. The Planning Commission Minutes show that it
was not intended to be public open space. The Tentative Map did not
require a rezoning of Parcel "B" and the lot was and is zoned R-1.
Ms. Bridges stated Mr. Dominic Selmi recalled in a conversation held
with City Attorney Ragghianti, that when he prepared the Final Map
he noted there were no conditions restricting Parcel "B" to other
than single family residential use, and thus knowing a property cannot
be effectively rezoned from residential to recreation by two words
on the Tentative Map, he removed the words "private recreation" from
the Final Map that he prepared. That Final Map was then certified
by the City Engineer and adopted by the Planning Commission.
Ms. Bridges noted the approval of the Subdivision Map is a discretionary
act of the City which was taken by the City 10 years ago. Issuance
of this building permit is a ministerial act. Denial of issuance of
this building permit or issuance of it with an invalid condition,
are acts of the City which are appropriately challenged and can be
compelled by a Writ Action. That Writ would additionally seek recovery
for both damages and costs on the basis of an arbitrary and capricious
action as supported by the record. In such an action, the Court would
be presented with a record that shows that the Council received advice
from its City Attorney, that this is a legal R-1 lot for which there
are no conditions on the Final Map; that there is a Final Map which
the City found complied with the State and local law and which was
the basis for the sale of all the lots in the Seastrand Subdivision
which has been built upon and that the Statute of Limitations for
challenging the approval of that Final Map has long since run.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 11
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 12
Ms. Bridges asked the Council to consider the following:
If Council does not direct issuance of the building permit for this
R-1 lot on the basis that the lot was intended to be used for private
recreation, will the Council then direct the lot be rezoned to commer-
cial recreation district so that development can proceed with that
zoning?
Has Council considered the status of this property on the City's list
of priorities of vacant parcels which could possibly be acquired for
open space?
She asked if the City did not choose to accept the dedication of this
property when it could have obtained it free, why would the City choose
to acquire it now?
In summary, Ms. Bridges stated the record, in her opinion, makes clear
this property was not intended to be public open space; it was not
conditioned for private recreation; the Statute of Limitations on
the Final Map has run almost 10 years ago and the City has a ministerial
duty to issue the building permit for this R-1 lot.
Mr. Robert Basso, President of Seastrand Homeowners Association, stated
in addition to the environmental and safety considerations, the sales
literature Council received tonight leaves some confusion in the prepa-
ration of that literature between Parcel "A" and Parcel "B" and the
size of the properties. He asked to have the names of the four indivi-
duals of the letters submitted earlier to Council, stating that he
could attest to a Barbara LaMastis, who stated on more than one occasion,
that that property was open space and that the only thing that could
be done would be to develop it for private recreational use at the
discretion of the homeowners.
Mr. Harry Rodriquez, 18 Sea Way, stated he bought lot number 44 in
Seastrand in 1980. When he purchased the lot he questioned what would
happen at the end of the property by Woodson's Gates and was told
a cul-de-sac would be put in. Later when the streets were put in,
no cul-de-sac was in place and he then uncovered that he was sold
a lot that was not included in Seastrand nor on the Final Map. He
indicated after they got the Final Map they bought the lot from a
private party and tacked it on to their marketing promotion and sold
it to him as a lot in the Seastrand Subdivision. In talking to some
salespeople, he was told that Parcel "B" was to be open space because
of high voltage wires in that area and that no one could ever build
there.
Comments by Councilmembers
Councilmember Breiner stated she was not certain the original proposal
had a Negative Declaration based on Parcel "B" which is filled, low
lying marshland having as its maximum use, private recreation. She
asked to hear from the City Attorney as to the Council's obligation,
if in fact, the Planning Commission and the City Council wanted something
done and the Planning Director at that time conciously did not put
it into effect.
Mayor Mulryan stated what he understood was that the basic zoning
was R-1, B-1 and there was talk of using this parcel for private recrea-
tional use that was never done with no zoning change, so the Final
Map was without designation which would have left it at its preexisting
zoning.
Councilmember Frugoli agreed and stated it seemed no one wanted the
property and the original owner, Innisfree Corporation did not want
it and the property owner stated they were probably mistaken that
it would be open space for the residents, but it caused a situation
where the map was signed with the category of R-1 Zoning. He indicated
that the City work with the Innisfree Corporation, the people who
represented the clients and existing property owners to try to purchase
that property through an open space fund. He stated it (the Final
Map) was signed by the Planning Commission Chairman, the City Clerk
and the City Engineer, and indicated if the City did not know what
they were signing how can the City blame the person who buys the property.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 12
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 13
Councilmember Boro read the letter from City Attorney Ragghianti which
states that Innisfree disputes the fact that this was open space and
that they always represented the parcel to be zoned for single family
residential use. He stated in checking the Assessor's roll, prior
to the sale and transfer of the property in 1985, it was taxed at
the rate of $1.00. His understanding is that the County Assessor thought
it was open space. If the City acquired the property, the Assessor's
roll has it at $52,000.
Mr. Boro found some inconsistency that the property was intended to
be R-1, B-1 and at the same time the property tax was $1.00.
Councilmember Breiner moved to take a Notice of Violation, stating
that the intention was clear.
Councilmember Frugoli stated this could be considered a "taking" and
noted that the City Attorney feels the City has no case.
Motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Boro explained he did not second the motion referring
to the City Attorney's advice that legally, the position cannot be
substantiated and there is a concern that it could be construed as
a "taking" and that the City Attorney has said no matter what happens
the Seastrand Homeowners Association will get involved in a lawsuit
whether the City goes ahead or not, or the property owner will. He
did not think the City should take the lead.
Mayor Mulryan stated the parcel seems to be a continuation of the
obvious marsh he has called "A" out toward the water, stating it has
lines over the property, does not look like it is buildable, can easily
see how it could be viewed as open space and has a creekbed alongside.
On the other hand, there is the very northerly portion of the property,
near where the house is currently being built, where it would seem
very easy to tuck in one unit next to the house being built. He stated
it would be a good solution and leave a great majority of the lot
open and have it revert to Wetlands. He encouraged the owner or optionee
to consider his suggestion.
Councilmember Thayer stated from a legal standpoint, City Attorney
Ragghianti's advice is correct regarding the Notice of Violation and
the Statute of Limitations. She could see equities on both sides,
stating people who bought into the project believed the property to
be open space. She agreed with Mayor Mulryan's suggestion that only
one residence be built on that property.
Mayor Mulryan stated they could ask that the owner, the optionee and
the Planning Staff work toward a Restrictive Covenant for all the
land except for one single residence on the northern end of the parcel.
He indicated this might be a good overall solution for all concerned.
A woman spoke from the audience, noting the property is an incredible
dust bowl and something should be done about it.
Councilmember Thayer moved and Councilmember Boro seconded, to hold
this item over to the next meeting and encourage the owner/optionee
of Parcel "B" and the Planning staff work toward a Restrictive Covenant
on all the land except for one single residence on the northern end
of the parcel. That the northerly portion of the property adjacent
to where the house is currently being built seems possible in having
one unit, leaving the majority of that lot open and revert it to wetlands.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Breiner and Frugoli
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Attorney Mason asked Mayor Mulryan since the matter is being continued,
is the status of the building permit being "stayed?" Mayor Mulryan
answered affirmatively.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 13
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 14
22. CERTIFICATION OF FINAL EIR AND ADOPTION OF SAN RAFAEL GENERAL
PLAN 2000: (P1) - File 115
A. RESOLUTION CERTIFYING FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
B. RESOLUTION ADOPTING SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN 2000, AS AMENDED
BY CITY COUNCIL
Senior Planner Jean Freitas gave an overview of the staff report
stating there are two resolutions, one for Certifying the EIR
and one for the adoption of the General Plan. The Plan adoption
resolution contains two attachments, first, a compilation of
all of the proposed General Plan revisions which resulted from
public input during the City Council review and the final EIR
summary table which is referenced in the General Plan adoption
Resolution.
The remaining attachments are part of the final EIR documents.
Copies of the draft EIR and responses to written comments on
the draft EIR were previously distributed to the Council and
the public. These along with the Resolution and the EIR attachments
contained in the staff report comprise the final EIR.
The final EIR includes a brief addendum to the EIR outlining
where the EIR would be revised through such changes proposed
by the Council. Then following is a summary of the EIR modification
contained in the previously published Responses to Comments documents
The third attachment annotates the changes summarized in the
EIR Addendum and the summary of EIR modifications. The last three
attachments to the EIR are new draft Canal/Child Care Task Force
Report; the April 4, 1988 report on Critical Intersections and
proposed General Plan Map Revisions.
Ms. Freitas then referred to page 1 of the General Plan which
outlines the major proposed Council revisions to the Plan. These
include a reduction from high to medium density on vacant residential
parcels in East San Rafael. Include potential for a new shopping
center in East San Rafael. A reduction in overall residential
development on the St. Vincents/Silveira Property from 10 units
to the acre to 6 units to the acre with a limited amount of new
office development potential on that site.
Page 2 of the staff report shows revisions to the Density Bonus
Policy to make inclusionary units more affordable and to limit
them to medium and high density areas of the City, as well as
more definitive wetlands and diked baylands protection Policies
and additional water conservation and supply policies.
Highlighted are the St. Vincents/Silveira Urban Service area,
the St. Vincents/Silveira Advisory Committee and proposed Wetlands
Fill Policies.
Regarding the Urban Service Area item, this matter is proposed
only for clarification and it asks whether the Urban Service
Area should include the area west of the railroad tracks or the
entire property. Staff recommends that the Urban Service Area
encompass the entire property as proposed. The advantage to having
the entire property within the Urban Service Area and annexing
the entire site at once is that the property could be treated
as a whole and would provide the City with greater control
over future land uses east of the tracks even though that portion
of the property is not proposed for any urban development during
the time frame of the General Plan.
The St. Vincents/Silveira Advisory Committee language is consistent
with Council's direction and is shown on pages 11 and 12, to the attach-
ment "A" to the General Plan Resolution.
Regarding Wetlands Fill language and a possible exclusion for fill
of certain wetlands near Auburn Street, staff concluded that such
an exception could apply to many potential infill projects, including
the Andersen Drive Extension project and others that are listed in
the staff report. It did not appear appropriate to allow an exception
for one project involving wetlands and not others in similar situations.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 14
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) //18/88 Page 15
City staff met with State Fish & Game staff to identify how a Waiver
could be worded which would not significantly weaken the Wetlands
Fill Policy. Staff would not recommend that wetlands fill be allowed
in exchange for enchancment only, but instead proposed a reduced mitiga-
tion of a minimum one-for-one, one acre of new wetlands for any acre
of filled wetlands. This recognizes that many of the small isolated
wetlands in urbanized neighborhoods generally provide less valuable
wildlife habitat than the larger regionally significant wetlands,
that is, they may well be remnants of drainageways or manmade drainage
ditches with minimal wetland vegetation.
Staff has been contacted by the Marin Audubon Society, the Lomitas
Park Homeowners Association and by Supervisor Hal Brown's office,
all recommending against a potential exclusion of this property from
the Wetlands Fill Policy.
Staff met with Sierra Club representatives to go over the draft Plan,
and the Sierra Club had two additional wetlands recommendations.
Staff concluded the first recommendation is consistent with the intent
of the proposed Wetlands Fill Policy and can be added. The City Attorney
has some revised language in response to the second request.
The Sierra Club recommended that the language stating "there could
be a waiver if the owner can demonstrate the implementation of this
policy would substantially interfere with any reasonable economic
use of the property", be changed to state"that it would substantially
interfere with a viable use of the property."
City Attorney Ragghianti reviewed the request made by the Sierra Club
and recommended the following: "If the property owner can demonstrate
that implementation of this policy would substanially interfere with
economically viable use of the property, they could seek a waiver."
Last sentence on NE -20.
The wording "any reasonable economic use" or "viable use" is replaced
with "economically viable use".
The Marin Audubon Society submitted correspondence on July 14, 1988
regarding the wetland policies and staff supports the language modifying
the approval statement located at the end of both of the policies
to state, "to the satisfaction of the City after consultation with
Department of Fish and Game and the public", rather than "to the satis-
faction of the Department of Fish and Game".
Three other proposed changes recommended to the Wetlands Fill and
Wetlands Buffer Policy are not recommended. The Marin Audubon Society
recommends that the two-for-one mitigation be retained for all wetland
areas filled and that the 50 foot setback policy be modified to not
only require a 50 foot setback for structures (buildings), but also
for fences, paths, roads and other identified items. Such language
would interfere with desired projects such as the Shoreline Park Band
where there are paths within 50 feet of wetlands.
Marin Audubon Society also recommends that a clause deleted by the
Council in NE -2 be reinstated. Staff believes their concerns with
this policy are responded to by the City Council proposed addition
of a program which requires that private open space deed limitations
and other restrictions be required as part of any private open space
transaction.
Two other issues received by staff include the possible marina addi-
tion to the Marin Ranch Airport site and modification to Housing Policies.
Regarding the marina addition, the County Parks Department submitted
a recent Marina Feasibility Study which concluded there was marginal
feasibility for such a use at a nearby location. Sierra Club represen-
tatives also recommended a deletion of a marina possibility at the
Marin Ranch Airport site because of impacts of boat traffic on sensitive
wildlife habitat areas and endangered species and levee erosion in
the Gallinas Creek area.
Regarding the proposed Housing Modifications, staff had several con-
versations with the Ecumenical Association for Housing, concluding
that the proposed low income McGucken House Senior project could be
accomplished without any additional modifications to housing policies.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 15
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 16
There are no density bonuses currently being proposed for either the
Civic Center Plaza project or the Pell Hill project as a result of
the McGucken House project, therefore, H-20 does not apply to those
two projects. EAH is attempting to negotiate a purchase of a portion
of the Civic Center Plaza site and if they are successful in securing
an option on that portion of the site, they would be requesting a
density bonus on their site for a low income senior housing project
and this would be consistent with H-20. In further discussion with
EAH staff, they are interested in keeping options open for potential
future projects.
Ms. Freitas said if Council wishes to broaden the H-20 language to
allow greater flexibility for senior projects, staff recommends that
the language in the new staff report handout be proposed. She stated
the main difference would state, "To achieve a density bonus, units
must be constructed on site and generally only if the main project
is age -restricted can the density bonus units be age -restricted".
Reduced Densities on Vacant Residential Parcels - East San Rafael
Councilmember Frugoli referred to a letter from the Seaport Company
and mentioned when this project was brought to Council, the density
was dropped from high to medium. He indicated this project was approved
by Council prior to the General Plan going into effect. He stated
Seaport Company was the only one having an approved project for the
higher density because of the cost of keeping the waterways in place
and the two islands. Councilmember Frugoli felt Seaport Company should
remain with the higher density.
Councilmember Frugoli moved that the project proposed by Seaport Company
be at high density instead of medium density.
Motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Breiner referred to the potential for a new shopping
center in East San Rafael and mentioned they were speaking to neighbor-
hood serving shopping development and indicated a distinction needs
to be made because a new shopping center development implies a grander
scale.
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Frugoli seconded, to
change the wording to state, "local serving commercial".
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Councilmember Breiner mentioned neighborhood meetings and referred
to LU-jj, and suggested from page 6 to transfer H -e as a substitute
to achieve the same goal. She explained under the Land Use, as an
overall concept, Council would want developers to have neighborhood
meetings as part of any major development application.
She mentioned the point of Mr. Irwin Williams' letter, is that it
should not only be under "housing" but under "development" as a whole.
Ms. Freitas noted it is under development as a whole and also is discussed
in the Housing Section.
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Boro seconded, that
H-20 be revised to include only the additional word "generally" but
not the fully underlined sentence which starts out with "If age restricted
units..and ends with family units."
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Referring to page 15, under the revision to ESR -27 on page 107, Council -
member Breiner referred to the deletion of the phrase, "Create automobile
accessible bay and wetlands vista points" and asked staff if this
was carried over. Staff replied it was.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 16
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 17
Councilmember Thayer, referring to NE -20, asked for clarification
in replacing "any reasonable economic use" with "any viable use".
City Attorney Ragghianti responded that the suggestion was made by
him because it tracks the language from the United States Supreme
Court's decisions on the definition of "over regulation" (takings),
stating the actual language is "economically viable use". He noted
it is more beneficial to the City than the language previously suggested.
Councilmember Boro asked if the Marina Smith Ranch issue is to be
left in, and Mayor Mulryan responded this is only an alternative and
the City is a long way before they can get a marina there, but that
one of the issues would be the effect on the wildlife, the replacement
of the mud levees with permanent types, etc. He suggested this be
left in.
RESOLUTION NO. 7770 - RESOLUTION CERTIFYING FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
REPORT
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
RESOLUTION NO. 7771 - RESOLUTION ADOPTING SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN
2000, AS AMENDED BY CITY COUNCIL
Councilmember Thayer asked if any of their objections are to be noted,
stating she was extremely opposed to development of the St. Vincents/
Silveira property and the Level of Service "D" as opposed to Level
of Service "C" and that she did propose a modification to this with
several lesser portions of the Plan.
Planning Director Moore responded that all objections will be included
in the Minutes from meetings when the Plan was considered.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
20. PUBLIC HEARING - Z85-16 - DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND
REZONING FOR 220 UNIT RESIDENTIAL APARTMENT COMPLEX, CREST MARIN II;
CRESTA DRIVE; PAUL SADE, OWNER; DANIEL ROSS, REP.; AP 155-251-20, 21,
24 & 25 (Pl) - File 10-3
Mayor Mulryan declared the public hearing opened.
Planning Director Moore stated the Final Environmental Impact Report,
consideration of the project as a priority consistent with the San
Rafael General Plan 2000 and a conditional approval of zoning were
to be considered tonight. The project is a 220 rental residential
project situated on the remaining graded portion of the site which
over 20 years ago was developed with Crest Marin I. The Applicant
has proposed that 15 percent be affordable to low and moderate income
households for a 40 year period. The Applicant had proposed that the
low income units be made available to households not exceeding 80
percent of the median income. Staff recommended that the Planning
Commission approve the project with the affordability limit at 75
percent of the median income. Through the years, in conjunction with
the Housing Authority, staff found if they established the upper limit
of one of the affordability ranges, for example, low income is below
80 percent and moderate income is 80 - 120 percent, it would be diffi-
cult to find qualified buyers and in this case, qualified renters.
Staff's practice has been to use more middle range in the household
figures.
The initial environmental study done for the project had one significant
effect, traffic, and only cumulative traffic effects for the project.
Draft EIR was done showing with construction of all existing approved
projects and factoring in traffic for several possible County projects
which the City has no planning or zoning authority over, there would
not be any exceedings over adopted Level of Service Standards and
would not reach midpoint "D". The environmental review findings regard-
ing traffic, coupled with the housing proposal becomes a basis for
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 17
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 18
consideration as to whether this project should be considered as a
priority project.
Staff is in the process and has submitted a preliminary staff report
to the Planning Commission on the priority project procedure. Planning
Commission will be holding a public hearing on this at their next
meeting next week, and it is expected to have one or two additional
meetings to complete its review and be able to make a recommendation
to the Council. The Council would then consider the recommendation
in August or September and conduct a public hearing on the implementing
program. It is likely the way the priority projects procedure would
work if it is opened up for applications, that a time in the future,
after the City Council's action, would be chosen and property owners
would be given that amount of time to submit application materials
for priority project procedure. There would then be necessary time
for staff review, Planning Commission review and recommendation to
the Council and Council consideration.
Ms. Moore noted this is an unusual project, stating they have not
had large scale rental housing projects that are non -age restricted
proposed in the City for a very long time and she could not recall
any having 15 percent of the units affordable to low and moderate
income.
The Applicant presented their case to the Planning Commission that
they be considered as a priority project at this time. Staff has some
concerns about this, and reported to the Planning Commission on the
nature of all pending and known possible development applications
that are tributary to the Smith Ranch Road/Lucas Valley Road Interchange.
It is a situation that is very different from that they are facing
in the Bellam Boulevard Interchange area where they have scores of
pending or identified potential projects all tributary to those inter-
sections to that interchange. They have a limited number of properties
that are tributary to the critical intersections at Lucas Valley Road/
Smith Ranch Road Interchange. To date, staff and the Planning Commis-
sion have not been aware of any pending projects or proposals they
expect to be forthcoming in the near future that are likely to be
priority projects, and this is not to say that some property owners
will not develop proposals between now and the time when a first pri-
ority project procedure is gone through by the City for this area.
But at the present time, parcels such as Daphne/Bacciocco, Regency
Center II, Parcel 3 at Smith Ranch and the Marin Ranch Airport have
not had proposals that are clearly priority projects as is this one.
The only reason why the Planning Commission made the recommendation
as a priority project now is because of its large scale of 220 units,
totally rental residential, non -age restricted and with the 15 percent
low and moderate income affordable.
Councilmember Breiner asked staff how the County Housing Authority
certifies work in terms of the income level, and Ms. Moore responded
they require a submittal of documentation which is typically tax returns
and other information concerning income and assets.
Consultant Matthew Guthrie stated there is an interest for involvement
and there is a staffing problem right now at the County Housing
Authority as to how they would certify the income. They suggested
that the City and County staff and Applicant get together when the
agreement is prepared as to exactly how the certification procedure
would take place.
Ms. Moore stated the Below Market Rate Agreement would be finalized
subsequent to the actions recommended to the Council this evening.
Councilmember Frugoli indicated although the project has a priority
designation for the reasons mentioned, there are housing projects
in East San Rafael that should also be considered as priority projects
when it comes to residential, and noted traffic concerns are the same
in both areas.
Ms. Moore responded the first draft of the priority project procedure
is before the Planning Commission for review that typically, staff
would recommend if there is competition among priority projects, that
residential projects be considered of highest priority. She stressed
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 18
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 19
ideally, they would like to see all the projects be reviewed for priority
project consideration after formal adoption of that procedure. The
Applicant has made information available to the Planning Commission
indicating that they simply may not be able to continue to be involved
in this property through the next few to several months that it would
take the City to adopt that procedure. This is a special request.
Councilmember Boro mentioned that some wording be worked out on the
agreement that some preference be given to City employees on the 33
units. He also was concerned with going ahead with this prior to having
the procedure in place, noting once this gets going, similar requests
will come up elsewhere in the City. He believed that the priorities
were not housing first, but sales tax and housing were equal and each
individual case would be looked at based on the circumstances at the
time. He asked to have a performance criteria be put into this, so
they do not find out sometime later that the developers walked away
from it. He noted he wanted a guaranty that if this project does not
begin at a certain time, it would be null and void.
Ms. Moore mentioned revising the second Resolution... after "BE IT
FURTHER RESOLVED" on the second page "would establish that priority
project determination for a period of one year", and it could include
something to the effect that this Applicant proceeds ahead with the
project within that period of time.
Mr. Dan Ross of Northbay Properties gave background of the project
and stated the landowner has been extremely patient with his firm
which started in 1985 with six extensions of the option and will now
extend it to another five days from tonight. The landowner indicated
he needs to close the property for tax purposes and if he does not,
he will take it off the market, put it in trust, and it will probably
be lost forever to the rental housing pool for the City of San Rafael.
Mr. Ross noted Council charged the Planning Department to see if there
was any way they could proceed in the planning process. He noted they
eventually received unanimous approval from the Planning Commission.
He asked Council to allow them to be a priority project and proceed
with the project.
Commissioner Paul Cohen, Member of the Planning Commission referred
to Councilmember Boro's comments and stated the Planning Commission
held tentative discussions regarding priority procedures and a one
year time limit on those allocations has been discussed. He noted
in Conditions of Approval - Zoning, Z85-16 Condition D, states...
"Building permits may be issued if all conditions of approval are
met and the City Council has determined Crest Marin II as a priority
project". The Planning Commission interpreted this to mean that building
permits could only be issued as long as that determination is in effect.
He noted the one year time limit was thought to be effective as worded.
Mr. Sidney Hendricks stated the Crest Marin II project should go ahead
but disagrees with staff that this is the only project trying to go
ahead, noting he has been waiting since 1983, and adding he got an
approval for 165 units no matter what the traffic was three years
ago. He indicated he has been struggling to get approval now and does
not understand why he cannot come before the Council to get an approval.
He stated he has been trying to provide housing for five years.
There being no further comments, Mayor Mulryan closed the public hearing.
RESOLUTION NO. 7772 - CERTIFYING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR CREST
MARIN II
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Ms. Moore indicated City Attorney Ragghianti suggested the following
wording to the second Resolution: "BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the
City Council does hereby establish this Priority Project determinaton
for a period of one year or until July 18, 1989. Failure to secure
building permits within that time frame unless a time extension(s)
is granted by the City Council will render the Priority Project determi-
nation null and void".
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 19
SRCC MINUTES (Regular, 7/18/88 Page 20
Council agreed with the above wording.
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Boro seconded, to adopt
the Resolution, as amended, on the Priority Project Designation.
RESOLUTION NO. 7773 - DETERMINING THAT THE PRIORITY PROJECT DESIGNATION
FOR CREST MARIN II IS A PRIORITY PROJECT
CONSISTENT WITH THE SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN
2000
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Frugoli
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF
THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA; ADOPTED BY REFERENCE BY SECTION
14.15.020 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA, SO AS TO
RECLASSIFY CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY FROM U -NG (R-179) (UNCLASSIFIED NORTH -
GATE ACTIVITY CENTER OVERLAY - RESIDENTIAL - 179 PEAK TRIPS) DISTRICT
TO P-DNG (R-187) (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT - NORTHGATE ACTIVITY CENTER
OVERLAY) - (RESIDENTIAL - 187 PEAK TRIPS) DISTRICT. (Cresta Drive)"
Councilmember Breiner moved and Councilmember Boro seconded, to dispense
with the reading of the ordinance in its entirety and refer to it
by title only and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1547 to print by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
23. SELECTION OF CONSULTANT TO PERFORM RATE STUDY OF MARIN SANITARY SERVICE
(Fin) - File 4-3-32
Finance Director Coleman stated last February, as part of the condition
of a rate increase for Marin Sanitary Service, the City requested
that an independent study be done before the next rate increase was
heard by the Council. Two proposals were received, Price Waterhouse
and Touche Ross who are equally fine firms having experience in the
Bay Area. He stated that the Marin Sanitary Service prefers Touche
Ross, and Mr. Coleman indicated he would agree with that firm as long
as the City awards and administers the contract and that the scope
of the contract include the question raised by the Recycling Committee.
Attorney Albert Bianchi representing the Marin Sanitary Service asked
the Council to select the firm of Touche Ross.
RESOLUTION NO. 7774 —AUTHORIZING SIGNING OF AN AGREEMENT WITH TOUCHE
ROSS TO DO RATE STUDY OF MARIN SANITARY SERVICE.
(Price $32,000).
Under discussion, Mr. William Bielser of 55 Bellvue Avenue, San Rafael,
stated he made a parallel request before the San Rafael Sanitation
District two weeks ago that the City consider taking jurisdiction
in this matter away from the Las Gallinas Sanitary District. He indicated
that the Charter states the Council sets garbage and sanitation rates
in San Rafael but the City is not doing this in half of the community.
He mentioned that the Terra Linda area rates are set by the Las Gallinas
Sanitary District, and requested that the Council add to the study
presented tonight, whether or not the Council should be setting those
rates as well. He stated it is particularly important if there is
a five percent franchise tax placed on garbage collection. This would
mean the City would only get five percent on the southern half of
San Rafael and not the other half of the town, creating a disparity
in rates, and suggested the five percent could be cut to two and one
half percent if the whole community were considered.
Finance Director Coleman stated he would ask Touche Ross if the inclu-
sion of the northern part of the City would have any economic impact
on the situation.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 20
SRCC MINUTES (Regular, 7/18/88 Page 21
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
24. SECOND READING AND FINAL ADOPTION - ORDINANCE NO. 1546 - AN ORDINANCE
OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING TITLE 14, OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
OF SAN RAFAEL, SECTION 14.08.090H "DEFINITIONS: SO AS TO STANDARIZE
THE METHOD USED TO DETERMINE BUILDING HEIGHT (Pl) - File 10-3
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING TITLE 14, OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE OF SAN RAFAEL, SECTION 14.08.090H "DEFINITIONS" SO
AS TO STANDARDIZE THE METHOD USED TO DETERMINE BUILDING HEIGHT"
Councilmember Frugoli moved and Councilmember Breiner seconded, to
dispense with the reading, to refer to it by title only, and adopt
Charter Ordinance No. 1546 by the following vote, to wit:
City Clerk Leoncini asked Councilmember Thayer, due to her absence
when this item was originally brought to Council, whether she had
read all the previous material on this matter, and she responded affirm-
atively.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
25. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 1433
(PARAMEDIC SERVICE SPECIAL TAX) AND SETTING THE PARAMEDIC TAX RATE
FOR FISCAL YEAR 1988-89 FOR RESIDENTIAL AND NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
(Fin) - File 9-3-31X8-5
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING ORDINANCE 1433 (PARA-
MEDIC SERVICE SPECIAL TAX) AND SETTING THE PARAMEDIC TAX RATE FOR
FISCAL YEAR 1988/89 FOR RESIDENTIAL AND NON-RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES"
Councilmember Boro moved and Councilmember Thayer seconded, to dispense
with the reading of the Ordinance in its entirety and refer to it
by title only and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1548 to print by the
following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
�r
JEA . LEON IN
City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 7/18/88 Page 21