HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 1994-11-21SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1994, AT 7:00 PM
Regular Meeting: Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor
San Rafael City Council Paul M. Cohen, Councilmember
Barbara Heller, Councilmember
Joan Thayer, Councilmember
David J. Zappetini, Councilmember
Absent: None
Others Present: Suzanne Golt, Assistant City Manager
Gary Ragghianti, City Attorney
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
OPEN SESSION - CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Boro announced in Open Session that the City Council would be going into Closed
Session to discuss the following Closed Session items:
1. CLOSED SESSION - CONFERENCE ROOM 201
a. Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code §54956.9(c):
One (1) case
b. Conference with Labor Negotiators (Government Code §54957.6)
Negotiators: Suzanne Golt/Daryl Chandler
Employee Organizations: San Rafael Firefighters' Association
MAPE - Child Care Unit
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 1994, AT 8:00 PM
OPEN SESSION
RE: CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
1a. City Attorney Ragghianti reported that no reportable action was taken.
1b.City Attorney Ragghianti reported that no reportable action was taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE:
RE: POLICE RADIOS - File 4-1-467 x 9-3-30
Officer Dan Hanlon, President, San Rafael Police Association, reported there are ongoing
problems with the police radio system, noting the system is now, and has been plagued with
problems for 4+ years. He stated Chief Krolak has been meeting with representatives from
the manufacturer, installer, and current maintenance company. Officer Hanlon indicated
that Chief Krolak is organizing a Radio Committee to meet with Commander Pennington, who
is assigned in-house to try to identify problems with the system and work towards resolu-
tion. Officer Hanlon asked for Council participation on that Committee. He noted there
has been some concern raised that direct participation by the Council could be perceived
as stepping on toes of department staff and City mid -management, but noted that is not the
point. The only reason to ask for Council participation is so we can all come to the same
table and hear everything at the same time with nothing getting lost in interpretation by
hearing it second-hand.
Mayor Boro stated Council will take this under advisement and report back to the Associa-
tion at the next meeting, 12/5/94.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Thayer seconded, to approve the recommended
action on the following Consent Calendar items:
ITEM
2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of
November 7, 1994 (CC)
3. Resolution with Findings Granting Appeal of
Page 1
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Approved as submitted.
RESOLUTION NO. 9251 - A RESOLU-
Access Requirements -
1321 Fourth Street, TION
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
Page 2
Warren Robinson, Appellant (PW) - File 13-1-1
x 1-6-1
5. Report on Bid Opening for Purchase of 5 Vehicles
(Fin) - File 4-2-284
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL (IN ITS CAPA-
CITY AS THE BOARD OF APPEALS)
GRANTING CONDITIONED APPROVAL OF
AN APPEAL FROM STATE ACCESS
REQUIREMENTS, 1321 FOURTH
STREET, SAN RAFAEL.
RESOLUTION NO. 9252 - AUTHORIZ-
ING THE PURCHASE OF FOUR NEW
VEHICLES FROM JOE SIO CHEVROLET
(two compact sedans in amount of
$27,066.58, one utility vehicle
in amount of $20,753.09 and one
van in amount of $18,322.76)
RESOLUTION NO. 9253 - AUTHORIZ-
ING THE PURCHASE OF ONE NEW
VEHICLE FROM FOLSOM LAKE FORD
(one mid-sized sedan in amount
of $15,246.66)
6. SECOND READING AND FINAL ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE Approved final adoption of
NO. 1669 - ADOPTING AN AMENDMENT TO THE CENTRAL Ordinance 1669.
SAN RAFAEL REDEVELOPMENT PLAN PURSUANT TO HEALTH
AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 33333.6, AND AMENDING A
RELATED ORDINANCE IN CONNECTION THEREWITH (RA) -
File 140 x (SRRA) R-140 XIII
7. Annual Parking Meter Holiday from Wednesday, Approved staff recommendation.
November 23, 1994 through Monday, December 26,
1994 (RA) - File 11-18
8. Approval of Street Closure for 15th Annual Parade Approved staff recommendation.
of Lights on Friday, November 25, 1994, and the
5th Annual Winter Wonderland Event on November 25
& 26, 1994 (RA) - File 11-19
9. Monthly Investment Report (Fin) - File 8-18 x 8-9 Accepted report.
11. SECOND READING AND FINAL ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE Approved final adoption of
NO. 1670 - AMENDING CHAPTER 10.60 OF THE SAN Ordinance No. 1670.
RAFAEL MUNICIPAL CODE, VEHICLES FOR HIRE, TO
REVISE SECTION 10.60.050, REGARDING THE REVOCA-
TION OF LICENSES, AND TO REVISE SECTION 10.60.080
REGARDING INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS (Fin) - File 9-9
12. Resolution of Appreciation for Supervisor Bob
Roumiguiere (CM) - File 102
13. Resolution of Appreciation for Rear Admiral
Thomas Patterson, Captain, Jeremiah O'Brien
(CM) - File 102
14. Resolution of Appreciation to The Rotary Club
of Mission San Rafael for Planting of Trees in
Page 2
RESOLUTION NO. 9254 - RESOLUTION
OF APPRECIATION TO BOB ROUMIGUIERE,
RETIRING FROM THE OFFICE OF
COUNTY SUPERVISOR AFTER 22 YEARS
OF DEDICATION AND HARD WORK.
COUNCIL THANKS HIM FOR HIS
EXEMPLARY SERVICE AND SINCERE
COMMITMENT WHICH HAS DIRECTLY
BENEFITTED SAN RAFAEL RESIDENTS
AND WISHES HIM SUCCESS IN ALL
FUTURE ENDEAVORS.
RESOLUTION NO. 9255 - RESOLUTION
OF APPRECIATION TO REAR ADMIRAL
THOMAS J. PATTERSON, USMS (RET)
ACKNOWLEDGING THE IMPORTANCE OF
HIS EFFORTS IN THE SUCCESSFUL
VOYAGE OF THE S.S. JEREMIAH
O'BRIEN, COMMEMORATING THE 50TH
ANNIVERSARY OF D-DAY AT OMAHA
AND UTAH BEACHES, NORMANDY,
FRANCE, AND EXPRESSING DEEP
PRIDE THAT HE IS A RESIDENT OF
OUR COMMUNITY.
RESOLUTION NO. 9256 - RESOLUTION
OF APPRECIATION TO THE ROTARY
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
Page 3
Downtown San Rafael (Pl) - File 102 x 9-3-49
15. Resolution Declaring LYNCO Financial and
Insurance Services as the City's Broker of
Record for Group Life, Disability and Dental
Insurance Programs (Pers) - File 4-3-285 x
7-1-21 x 7-1-28 x 7-1-29 x 7-1-33
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller,
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
CLUB OF MISSION SAN RAFAEL FOR
THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF
FIVE STREET TREES ON 'B' STREET
TO PROMOTE OUR VISION OF
DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL.
RESOLUTION NO. 9257 - DECLARING
LYNCO FINANCIAL & INSURANCE
SERVICES AS THE CITY'S INSURANCE
BROKER OF RECORD (EFFECTIVE
1/1/95 THROUGH 12/31/97).
Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
The following items were removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion:
4.APPROVAL OF PROJECT ADVISORY TEAM FOR FREITAS INTERCHANGE ALTERNATIVES STUDY (PW) -
File 9-2-50 x 11-16 x 11-15 x 171
Mayor Boro stated the Council has not had an opportunity to discuss the appointment of a
Councilmember to the Project Advisory Team. A decision will be made at the next
meeting, 12/5/94.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Zappetini seconded, to approve staff
recommendation.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
10.RESOLUTION AMENDING THE ICMA DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN (Fin) - File 7-4-5
Councilmember Heller asked for background regarding Great Western Bank and how much we
would save yearly by going to this new contract. Finance Director Coleman stated
that both ICMA and Great Western Bank currently administer our deferred compensation
program, each having different options available to the employees. Mr. Coleman
pointed out that all the savings will go to the employees, none to the City, noting
the employees are currently charged the $18 annual administration fee.
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Cohen seconded, to adopt the Resolution
authorizing the signing of an amendment to the Administrative Services Agreement with
ICMA Retirement Corporation as deferred compensation administrator for 5 years.
RESOLUTION NO. 9258 - AUTHORIZING THE SIGNING OF AN AMENDMENT TO ADMINISTRATIVE
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH ICMA RETIREMENT CORPORATION AS
DEFERRED COMPENSATION ADMINISTRATOR FOR 5 YEARS.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
16.PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO REAR ADMIRAL THOMAS PATTERSON, CAPTAIN,
JEREMIAH O'BRIEN (CM) - File 102
Mayor Boro presented Resolution of Appreciation to Rear Admiral (Ret) Thomas Patterson, a
San Rafael resident and Chairman of the Normandy '94 Committee of the S.S. Jeremiah
O'Brien, who was instrumental in the successful voyage commemorating the 50th
anniversary of D -Day at Omaha and Utah Beaches, Normandy, France.
Admiral Patterson stated it was a great honor to accept the Resolution of Apprecia-tion on
behalf of the entire crew and staff of the S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien. He introduced
Captain Carl Otterburg and Mrs. Nel Otterburg, as well as Mrs. Patterson, who were on
the ship. He also acknowledged Al Martino of San Rafael who was the cook and baker.
Admiral Patterson stated they received tremendous support from everyone in the Bay
Area, but especially from San Rafael.
RE: LONATE POZZOLO, ITALY, SISTER CITY - File 128 x 108
Mayor Boro introduced Gabriella Ponti, visiting from our Sister City, Lonate Pozzolo. Ms.
Ponti is here for a 3 -week study period sponsored by the City Council and Chamber of
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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Commerce to trace the heritage of the people who have come to San Rafael from Lonate
Pozzolo.
17.PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO THE ROTARY CLUB OF MISSION SAN RAFAEL FOR
PLANTING OF TREES IN DOWNTOWN SAN RAFAEL (Pl) - File 102 x 9-3-49
Recipient was unable to attend the Council Meeting.
PUBLIC HEARING
18.PUBLIC HEARING - CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND TITLE 9. HEALTH AND SANITA-
TION, OF THE SAN RAFAEL MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADD CHAPTER 9.30, ADOPTING A STORM WATER
MANAGEMENT AND DISCHARGE CONTROL PROGRAM (PW) - File 12-9 x 4-4-6
Mayor Boro declared the Public Hearing opened.
Public Works Director Bernardi reported that the Ordinance being considered this evening
would regulate the storm water management and discharge of run-off into the storm
drain system for San Rafael. He indicated that previously, the Council adopted the
Marin County Baseline Urban Run-off Control Plan as part of an overall County -wide
program that has been in place for about a year and a half, noting reports have been
sent to the Regional Board letting them know what we have done. Mr. Bernardi stated
that part of the process of cleaning up the storm water is for every city within the
County to adopt some form of this Ordinance. He stated this Ordinance was originally
a model that was put together by the Regional Board staff, as well as by members of
the Bay Area Storm Management Agency, which is comprised of all the Counties in the
Bay Area. The Ordinance has been modified in Marin County to suit our needs. He
pointed out that it does the following: Minimizes discharges other than storm water
run-off to storm drains or water courses; Will control the discharge to storm drains
or water courses from spills, dumping or disposing of material other than rain water;
and its ultimate goal is to reduce the pollutants in storm water discharges to the
maximum extent practical. It is administered by the Director of Public Works, and
lays the responsibility of any non -storm water discharge to the person who does the
discharging. It sets forth penalties and makes requirements that sidewalks be kept
clean by the tenant or property owner. They cannot sweep the sweepings into the
street; parking lots have to be kept clean so the oil that drips from cars must be
swept up; construction contractors working in the City will use Best Management
Practices and employ ABAG Standards. Mr. Bernardi stated that projects will be
approved subject to the recommendations of the Marin County Urban Run-off Control
Plan, noting each of the recommendations relates to various types of urban
development, and they are flexible enough to fit any situation. Mr. Bernardi stated
a Letter of Intent is required before any construction activity can begin which sets
requirements on maintaining water courses, whether public or private.
Councilmember Zappetini asked about water washing off Golden Gate Transit busses into a
storm drain, do they capture that water and what do they do with it? Mr. Bernardi
stated there is a system on their site that requires capturing the oil in one
chamber. Also, when they wash the busses and steam clean the engines, it all has to
go into a sump before it gets discharged into the sanitary sewers.
Mayor Boro stated this is a good example of an unfunded federal mandate. Mr. Bernardi
agreed, and the 5 years the cost has been projected for this program, the Cities in
the County, as well as Marin County, will spend about $1,300,000 implementing this
program where no federal assistance of any kind has been provided. He stated every
City Council in the County may have to consider some kind of alternate source other
than the general fund to fund this program.
Barbara Salzman, representing the Marin Audubon Society, stated the streams, creeks and
bay are not in good shape because we have not previously had this kind of Ordinance.
She stated the Audubon Society strongly supports the need for an Ordinance; however,
they feel this one is not strong enough. Ms. Salzman addressed the Title 10 concerns
regarding the discretionary nature of this section of the Ordinance. She stated it
allows local jurisdictions to enact and require certain provisions from new
developments or redevelopments; it does not mandate it. It allows the County to not
require a new development to take care of the increased pollutant run-off from their
projects. Therefore, the public continues to have to pay for this. She stated it
should not be discretionary, it should be a mandatory provision. The Audubon Society
suggests that all of the "mays" in the Ordinance be changed to "shalls". Regarding
Item 11, Watercourse Protection, Ms. Salzman stated it is not clear what healthy bank
vegetation is; for example, it should not include healthy broom growing along the
bank.
As there was no one else who wished to speak, Mayor Boro closed the Public Hearing.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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Mr. Bernardi stated that when the Ordinance was prepared, they felt it would be less
restrictive on staff to use "may", and to give more flexibility. He explained that
by adopting the Urban Run-off Control Plan, the Council has adopted the Best Manage-
ment Practices; therefore, they are automatically used by the City, Planning and
Public Works staff. Mr. Bernardi stated the goal is to reduce the pollutants that
would get into the storm water run-off.
Mayor Boro stated that if the word "shall" was used instead of "may", you could state the
goal of what is to be done without being specific. Mr. Bernardi stated they have no
problem changing the word to "shall".
Regarding Watercourse Protection, Mr. Bernardi stated the intent was to require that the
place where the water flows be cleared of debris and weeds so the water can flow
properly, not to strip the whole bank. He noted we do not have the staff or resources
to rid the County of broom, just to make sure the water can flow without being
restricted, as well as being able to trap the sediments that might be trapped in the
vegetation.
Councilmember Thayer stated she agrees with making the language mandatory, without losing
the flexibility as to what method will be used. Mr. Bernardi stated he under -stood
what Council was saying, so no matter what the instance is, some type of erosion
control will be employed using Best Management Practices.
Responding to Ms. Salzman's letter, Mr. Bernardi stated:
Item 3.1.4; Regarding animal waste and swimming pools, it would be impossible to
enforce; without examination or testing, it could not be determined if there was
a high residual chlorine when it gets down to the Bay from wherever they dump it;
and, should this really be dumped into the sanitary sewer rather than the storm
drain? He stated when it rains, the overflow runs into the sanitary sewer,
increasing the amount of infiltration. Mr. Bernardi agreed that further discus-
sion and review need to be done regarding this issue.
Item 3.2.2; Best Management Practices has already been addressed.
Item 3.2.4; It is implicit in the definition that storm drain definition does
include culverts. However, Mr. Bernardi stated if Council prefers to specifi-
cally say "culverts", it was fine with him. The intent is that it refers to
anything that carries water, whether a pipe, a ditch or whatever.
Item 7.1.2; In the Ordinance there are specific exemptions that are permitted for
this Ordinance as follows:
- Properly managed discharges: water line flushing and other discharges from
other potable water sources, landscape irrigation and lawn watering, irrigation
water, diverted stream flows, rising ground waters, infiltration to storm
drains, uncontaminated pumped ground water, foundation and footing drains,
water from crawl space pumps, air conditioning condensation, springs, individ-
ual residential car washing, flows from riparian habitats and wetlands, flows
from fire fighting or permitted use of reclaimed water.
Mr. Bernardi stated that Ms. Salzman recommends that we do not accept the run-off
from irrigation or garden watering because it may contain fertilizers, pesticides
and herbicides. Mr. Bernardi stated it would be impossible to regulate that. He
agreed that this needs additional study, but at this time we are not prepared to
enforce it.
Item 10.2; By adopting the Baseline Run-off Control Plan, Council has said the
streets will be cleaned, and there is a specific street sweeping program con-
tained within this control plan that speaks to the issue of the City maintaining
its facilities, including parking lots.
Item 10.3; One staff member is being paid for by the Joint Powers Authority to
manage this program for the entire Marin County. The staff member attends meet-
ings on a region -wide basis, and incorporates anything new into the standards.
Councilmember Cohen asked if there is a way to make it clearer that we maintain the list
of current Best Management Practices. Mr. Bernardi stated that for about the next
year and a half, it will probably be somewhat vague in terms of what we use as our
standards, but when the General Plan gets updated, these will be incorporated and
there will be specific practices that will be utilized to control erosion. Mr. Cohen
asked what reference we can use in the interim. Mr. Bernardi stated we reference
state and federal standards which are developed on a state-wide basis as a part of
the State Water Quality Control Board participation. The State Board recommends these
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be used as the current Best Management Practices. Mr. Cohen asked what is the basis
of the update for the standards. Mr. Bernardi stated it is both ABAG determinations,
as well as meetings with a group called Bay Area Storm Water Management Association
that works with the regulatory agencies to develop the various legislative issues
that need to be resolved, and through that process they come up with the changes.
Mr. Bernardi pointed out that it is not just local jurisdictions that develop these
standards. Mr. Cohen stated that process should be referenced so that, until the
General Plan is amended, it is clear that the Best Management Practices are current
standards. Mr. Bernardi referred to page 8 of the Ordinance..."The Director of
Public Works shall require, as a condition of project approval, permanent structural
controls designed for the removal of sediment and other pollutants. The selection
and design of such controls shall be in accordance with criteria established or
recommended by state and federal agencies." Mr. Cohen stated that in addition to
state and federal agencies, the Bay Area Storm Water Management Association is
involved. Mr. Bernardi clarified that the Bay Area group works with the state and
federal agencies to develop the standards.
Mayor Boro asked Mr. Bernardi if he felt this Ordinance can be adopted tonight or does it
need to be taken back to make changes. Mr. Bernardi answered that we are required to
have the Ordinance adopted by January 1, 1995, so if Council would prefer to have it
brought back in the corrected version, time would not be a problem. Mayor Boro
suggested it be brought back to the next meeting, since the Public Hearing has been
closed.
Councilmember Thayer moved and Councilmember Zappetini seconded, to hold this item over to
the Meeting of 12/5/94, and bring the amended Ordinance back to the Council to be
passed to print.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS:
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
OLD BUSINESS
Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
None
None
19.DISCUSSION - ST. VINCENT'S/SILVEIRA OPTIONS FOR PROCEEDING (P1) - File 10-2 x 10-1 x
9-2-45
Mayor Boro explained that this is a continuation of a discussion two months ago regarding
a process issue with regard to the St. Vincent's/Silveira property.
Planning Director Pendoley stated that in September, the Council received a Draft General
Plan Amendment from the St. Vincent's/Silveira Advisory Committee, and a staff report
outlining some process options. He noted that of the five options presented, Council
focused on Options D and E. Mr. Pendoley stated that Option D would have us work
with the County to develop a joint amendment to our respective General Plans and then
prepare an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). He noted they met with County
representatives regarding this, and the County is not in favor of this option. The
County recognizes this will be very controversial, and that the EIR would likely be
very expensive. Mr. Pendoley explained that Option E would leave the General Plan in
place as it is presently, and it would have the Council adopt a Resolution of Intent
that would give the Planning Commission and staff direction as to how the
recommendations of the Advisory Committee are to be considered when we begin our
update of the City-wide General Plan, which should start in about two years.
Mr. Pendoley stated Council previously asked that Planning explore with the County the
possibility of adopting a concurrent resolution in which they would make some similar
comments about the property. He stated an advantage to this approach is that it
avoids the need for an unbudgeted and probably very large expense for an EIR and
allows other things to take place in the interim such as an open space bond measure.
Mr. Pendoley stated that it is also expected that the BCDC (Bay Conservation and
Development Commission) may include this property in the North Bay Management Pro-
gram. He noted there does seem to be some County interest in adopting a concurrent
resolution.
Mr. Pendoley indicated an EIR could easily cost $1 million.
Councilmember Thayer stated she is absolutely opposed to an EIR process because of the
expense of a plan that is conceptual in nature only. She noted when the process
first started it was in response to Measure L, and was started with the intention
that there would be a downward revision of the intensity of development in the
General Plan. Ms. Thayer stated that something got skewed in this process, and her
concern is that with a General Plan designation as it is, it will be very difficult
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SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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to either have open space or affordable housing because of the cost of the land. She
stated the cost of the land is driven up by our General Plan designation, and noted
Option E is probably the only alternative because we do not have the money to do an
EIR. She believes it should be done with the County, because of the magnitude of the
project and the importance of the property to the entire community.
Councilmember Heller referred to page 6 of the staff report, Guarantees, and asked for
clarification of ..."Proposed General Plan policies for St. Vincent's would require a
higher percentage of units affordable to low and moderate income house -holds." Mr.
Pendoley stated the Advisory Committee felt that an objective in developing the
property should be to provide as much affordable housing as possible.
Councilmember Zappetini asked if either of the property owners have been asked to pay for
the EIR, or have they solicited for a developer to pay for it. He noted that if the
City did an EIR, a developer would have to then pay for another EIR, and asked if
this could be circumvented by having a developer pay for the initial EIR. Mr.
Pendoley stated the owners have not offered funds, and they probably do not have that
kind of money. Mr. Zappetini asked if Option E would allow the property owners to
ask a developer to pay for an EIR, or combined with the owner, pay for the EIR,
rather than the City spending the money. Mr. Pendoley stated that is correct for
Option E, but other Options would not allow that flexibility.
Councilmember Cohen stated that if any proposal comes forward for these properties, it
would require the site to be master planned which would trigger the need for an EIR.
He noted that in Ms. Thayer's comments, she lumped together affordable housing and
open space acquisition, when actually they pull in opposite directions. He stated
that increased density allows for more opportunities because you spread the cost over
more units, so you can carry the costs of making the units affordable. Mr. Cohen
asked the City Attorney if zoning to affect the price of the property is illegal.
City Attorney Ragghianti stated that from a conceptual standpoint, if the intent of the
zoning could be demonstrated to drive the price down for the purpose of acquiring it
for the public, that would be inverse condemnation.
Mayor Boro reminded the audience that tonight's subject is the issue of process, noting we
have a recommendation from the staff to proceed with Option E, working with the
County to prepare a Memorandum of Understanding which would be the guiding principles
for this property in lieu of any change to the General Plan at this time.
Sue Beittel, speaking for the Citizens for the Common Good, stated they are convinced that
the draft report represents good planning and a balanced approach to the future use
of this important site. The most important point they would like to make is to keep
the process moving forward. She stated they support Option E as revised, including a
joint City/County Resolution clarifying San Rafael's role. She stated the Resolution
must take into consideration three things: 1) The City needs to continue to take the
lead and be responsible for the planning of this land; 2) The City has an obligation
to the property owners. They have been very cooperative and helpful, but they, too,
need to know how to move forward. 3) Thousands of dollars have been spent, and many
citizens have dedicated a significant amount of volunteer time studying the future
use of this land. All of the time, money and expertise has lead to similar
conclusions - the essence of the St. Vincent's/Silveira Neighborhood Plan. She asked
that Council continue to move ahead to a final resolution based on the draft General
Plan Amendment.
Aileen Taylor, representing Citizens for the Common Good, stated that fairness to the
owners must be one of the major goals, and by moving the process forward, that is the
best way to meet that goal and to make use of all of the knowledge we gained from
three years of study.
Jay Tillotson, urged the Council to accept Option E, because it is more fiscally
responsible. He stated this land is within the sphere of influence of San Rafael,
and San Rafael must accept that responsibility. Mr. Tillotson stated the other
advantage to Option E is that it gives us time to arrange funding for affordable
housing.
Frank Nelson, representing CAPS (Citizens Advocate for Preservation of St. Vincent's),
asked the meaning of the phrase, 'concurrent resolution of intent'. He also asked
what happens to the Advisory Committee's urban village plan while the concurrent
resolution is being worked on. He stated his organization has already made formal
written application to two national programs requesting these lands be considered for
preservation and protection. Mr. Nelson stated the key problem related to the
advantages under Option E is that efforts that are being taken and any anticipated
future efforts are affected by the continued existence of the Advisory Committee's
village urban plan, because this plan creates an unrealistic financial expectation in
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Page 8
the minds of the property owners. Therefore, Mr. Nelson stated the Council must be
perfectly clear as to what happens to the Advisory Committee's village plan during
the interim, in order to give the opposition an opportunity to take steps to try to
put together purchase plans for either all or a portion of the properties. He stated
they continue to recommend Option C. Mayor Boro reminded Mr. Nelson that is no
longer an issue; it is between Options D and E. Mr. Nelson said the importance of
taking the urban village plan off the table is that there is a strong community view
that these lands should not be developed into a high density urban development.
Councilmember Zappetini asked Mr. Nelson what two national organizations have been
contacted for funds to buy the property and maintain it as is. Mr. Nelson answered
that these organizations have been asked to include the two properties in protective
zones, and they have funding available, but he would prefer not to give names at this
time. Mr. Zappetini asked if they would consider buying the property from the owners
and maintaining it as is. Mr. Nelson stated the process would require willing
sellers, so that is an obstacle that would have to be overcome.
Mayor Boro asked Mr. Pendoley to answer two questions that were raised: 1) The definition
of a concurrent resolution. Mr. Pendoley stated the important word is concurrent;
the City and the County would adopt resolutions at the same time, although they
probably would not say the same things. He stated the County is in a very different
position with regard to the studies it has done on this property, noting that over
the last couple of years, they have put an interim designation just for study
purposes, then adopted a series of policies that are fairly consistent with past
policies that designate this property as part of the urban corridor. Mr. Pendoley
stated he expects the County would be inclined to adopt a resolution that is more
general in its statements. 2) How do you see the status of the Advisory Commit -tee's
urban village plan if we go forward with this approach? Mr. Pendoley stated it is
important to recognize that it would not have legal status; Council would not be in
any way adopting it because that would take an EIR. He stated what is most relevant
is, rather than the study, the policies that various agencies have adopted including
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), the County and the City. They would weigh
much more heavily on the property over the next couple of years than this
recommendation that would not have legal status.
Councilmember Thayer stated the Committee's recommendations are essentially the
recommendations for that part of the General Plan that calls for a specific plan, so
it puts it out there in limbo until we decide upon the process. She noted if it is a
County -City effort, at that point any particular plan will be decided on its merit.
Mr. Pendoley agreed, but added also that Council may adopt a Resolution of Intention,
making comments on that recommendation to give a little more focus to the City-wide
General Plan update in two years; kind of a rider on that recommendation. Ms. Thayer
stated that essentially the General Plan and this plan are in harmony in the sense
that the land use designation is compatible with that specific plan. Mr. Pendoley
agreed, noting they may determine the Committee's recommendation fulfills the mandate
of the General Plan policy that says there should be an Advisory Committee, and they
should prepare a report to Council.
Bonnie Brown, Committee member representing the North San Rafael Coalition of Residents,
stated she is speaking tonight as an individual on the Committee, but not
representing them. She stated the most important thing is to move the process along
which is only fair to the property owners. She stated it is fiscally irresponsible
to spend taxpayers' money on an EIR that is so costly, but she would like to see the
evaluation of the Advisory Committee's report for the General Plan Amendment to be
looked at before it is moved forward. She noted we could keep 71% of the land open
and still have what is in the General Plan. She stated she does not agree with the
commercial along the freeway, but in general, it is a good plan and pointed out there
are many complicated issues to be looked at.
Sean Hammill, stated he was team leader of Dovetail Design Team which entered St.
Vincent's/ Silveira land use competition and a contributor to the Sustainable Guide-
lines of the draft plan. He stated since the design competition took place for which
Dovetail submitted a plan for "sustainable development", there has grown community
interest in such an idea. A citizens' group was formed for the purpose of advocating
development which is sustainable, that is that which does not sacrifice the integrity
of the land and its capacities to support and sustain life for future generations.
He stated this point of view can be seen as a potential life enhancing compromise
between open space preservation and conventional developmental interests. The group
has concerns with the draft plan as it stands since it does not fully incorporate
principles that would make it sustainable. Mr. Hammill stated they wish to go on
record as supporting Option E, not only so preservation and agricultural groups can
be given the opportunity to raise money to purchase the property, but also so the
draft plan for development can be revised based on principles that are clearly and
definitely sustainable should development occur. They hope that sustainable princi-
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SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
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ples will be adopted by resolution because not only will Marin County benefit by such
an example, but the wider community as well.
Barbara Salzman, member of the Advisory Committee, stated one of the major deficien-cies
is that nobody really knows if the plan that was developed is economically feasible.
She said many people do not feel it is environmentally beneficial, but believe that
of the alternatives provided, Option E is the best. She stated staff needs to
identify the process so the Committee will know how to participate and have an
opportunity to comment on the policies. She also urged that the minority proposal
not be lost in the shuffle.
Dart Cherk, member of the Dovetail Team, stated he supports Option E, but stated the
element of sustainable community could be strengthened when the General Plan is
prepared. He gave several examples of interest in sustainable community by the
community and various architectural groups. He noted we have a golden opportunity
with St. Vincent's/Silveira to build a model community centered around the pedes-
trian, not the car, one which conserves the natural resources, and which recycles its
own waste for productive use.
Helene Hagan, Executive Director for the Institute of Archetypal Ethnology, the Coast
Federated Miwok Tribe Historic Preservation Officer and an anthropologist, stated her
comments have to do with language. She stated many people tonight have talked about
fairness to the owners of the land, and reminded the Council that the original land
owners of both of the properties were coastal Miwok people who for a long time were
thought to be extinct. However, they are very interested in the outcome of the use
of the property. She stated they support the minority position which would revert
the land to its natural state, noting it has not been in its natural state for
centuries because it was a cultural site of major dimension. She stated if we are
going to talk about this land and the common good, we must recognize that there is a
minority of 300-400 people who have something to say about this land which was taken
away from them. Ms. Hagan stated that under law, they have a right to that land.
However, as long as the land will be recognized culturally and used adequately with
common sense, the Miwok people will be satisfied. Ms. Hagan stated if plans continue
toward major development, legal measures may possibly be taken.
Yehudi Lieberman, resident of San Rafael, stated she has become frustrated with the
polarization of alternatives. She noted we need to go beyond stopping development;
we need to radically rethink the way redevelopment is done. She stated we need to
learn how to live in a way that preserves the land, the community and the local
economy. She stated the Dovetail plan is an innovative design which incorporates
many principles of sustainable community including very compact development with 85%
of the land left open, preservation of the unique environmental features of the land,
a design which promotes the formation of a sense of community, neighborhood and
place, is pedestrian oriented, with integration of small businesses in residential
areas, encouraging people to work and shop where they live which will keep them off
the freeways and support the local economy, and has innovative options for affordable
housing. She asked that the Council mandate guidelines for St. Vincent's/Silveira
that truly incorporate the principles of sustainable living. She stated she supports
Option E with the condition that the Council, in its resolution, states clearly the
environmental constraints and principles of sustainability are to be taken very
seriously in any future plan for this land.
Bob Servelle, 34 -year resident of Marin County, stated that two years ago he worked with
the Bay Bridge and 2020 Commission which was a blue ribbon panel to study the impact
on growth and development in the nine Bay Area counties over the next thirty years.
He stated the general conclusions of that Commission were, if there were not radical
changes in the way growth and development is handled, it will grind to a halt. Mr.
Servelle stated that Dovetail's concept of living lightly upon the land was part of
what the Commission was trying to address. He supports the recommendations of Option
E which provide room for refining the concepts that were developed in the
competition.
Renee Silveira, representing the Silveira family, stated the Advisory Committee made an
effort to listen to different viewpoints and come up with a balanced approach, and to
shelve the report would be so wasteful of people's time and effort and vision. She
stated there will be controversy no matter what approach is taken. She stated the
family is tired of the gridlock and polarity, and we must proceed onward. They feel
the Plan respects the land, noting her father is a strong protector of the cultural
resources.
Mayor Boro stated the intent is not to shelve this process, but how to go forward. He
stated that even if we had the money, it would not be money well spent to go ahead
with an EIR. He realizes the amount of work and effort spent by the Advisory
Committee, and conceptually the approach of Option E makes sense.
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Councilmember Thayer asked when questions that had been raised by the public would be
addressed? Mr. Pendoley stated that in tonight's staff report they tried to address
all of the questions heard at the first meeting, and Council will no doubt tell staff
what they want addressed in the next staff report.
Councilmember Heller asked how staff envisioned we will go from here. Mr. Pendoley stated
if there are particular comments now that Council would like to see considered in a
draft Resolution of Intention, it would be helpful. He stated it is assumed there is
a continuing interest in having some sort of concurrent resolution with the County,
and indicated there will need to be discussion between the two Planning Departments.
Mr. Pendoley stated it would be helpful if Council had suggestions for those
discussions. Ms. Heller stated she supports Option E and that we should be working
concurrently with the County. She stated she would like a broad range of numbers on
the density looked at.
Councilmember Thayer stated no one wants to see million dollar homes on the land and asked
how you go about analyzing this project without any concept of its economic
viability.
Councilmember Cohen stated it is not up to the City to determine economic viability, and
there is no way for the Council to determine this; the marketplace will dictate it.
He stated it is appropriate for Council to plan for the use of the land in a way that
is consistent with community goals. He indicated we have an obligation to update the
General Plan in two years, and he would look for this resolution to point to how we
fold the process we have just gone through into the City-wide General Plan update.
Mr. Cohen stated there is an opportunity to do that in a way that achieves everything
we have been urged to do tonight. He indicated it is important to recog-nize the
work of the Committee and felt that at some point Council should accept that report -
not approve it. He stated we also need to recognize that that process generated a
minority report, and the design competition produced a lot of good ideas. In the
meantime, the General Plan continues to be the guiding document for these properties.
Councilmember Zappetini stated he supports Option E, but emphasized that the City needs to
be the lead agency.
Mayor Boro stated the whole purpose in the Resolution of Intent is to be a starting point
for either further development on the land or an update to the General Plan. Mayor
Boro said he has a real concern regarding numbers because numbers get reaction. He
stated what he would rather we do is to turn the principles into a vision or goal,
and see how the numbers fall out. Ms. Heller agreed.
Mayor Boro stated it is important in the Resolution of Intent to reaffirm the role of the
City in the planning for this site.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Zappetini seconded, to direct staff to prepare
a Resolution of Intent for St. Vincent's/Silveira, setting out City and County
policies applicable to the site, laying out a process to help evaluate the
Committee's proposal along with others to provide initial direction regarding how
this property should be addressed, and pursue with County staff to develop a
concurrent resolution.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
NEW BUSINESS
20. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
a. APPOINTMENT OF SAN RAFAEL DELEGATE TO THE MARIN COUNTY SOLID AND HAZARDOUS WASTE
JPA (VERBAL) - File 13-2 x 115 x 4-10-167 x 9-2-10
Mayor Boro explained that a replacement is needed on this Committee due to
Councilmember Thayer's election as Assessor. Ms. Thayer explained the importance
of the Committee and the time commitment necessary.
Councilmember Heller was unanimously appointed as delegate to the Marin County
Solid and Hazardous Waste JPA.
ADD ITEMS:
Assistant City Manager Golt reported that the MOU for the Firefighters' Associa-
tion was accepted and approved by the membership in a meeting held Saturday,
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SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 11/21/94
November 19, 1994. City Clerk Leoncini distributed copies of the MOU.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Thayer seconded, to place this
emergency item on the agenda, which came up after the agenda was posted.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
a. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING PERTAINING TO COMPENSATION AND WORKING CONDITIONS
BETWEEN THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AND THE SAN RAFAEL FIREFIGHTERS' ASSOCIATION,
I.A.F.F., LOCAL 1775 - File 7-8-2 x 9-3-31 x 7-3
Personnel Director Chandler summarized the terms of the agreement: Three years
beginning July 1, 1993 through June 30, 1996 with two retroactive salary
increases in the 1993/94 year, salary increases July 1, 1994 and July 1, 1995,
for a total of a 12.8% increase. A salary survey will be developed, personnel
rules will continue to be worked on as well as other non -economic issues relating
to promotions, language changes, etc.
Mayor Boro asked if this was basically the same agreement Council agreed to
several weeks ago, and Mr. Chandler answered it was.
Christopher Desmond, President of the San Rafael Firefighters' Association,
I.A.F.F. Local 1775, stated the result of the long, difficult process is very
positive. He thanked the Council and staff for their patience and consideration
during the lengthy process.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Zappetini seconded, to adopt the
Resolution approving the MOU between the City and the San Rafael Firefighters'
Association for fiscal years 1993-94, 1994-95 and 1995-96.
RESOLUTION NO. 9259 - AMENDING RESOLUTION NOS. 6650, 7166, 7425, 8030 AND 8616
PERTAINING TO THE COMPENSATION AND WORKING CONDITIONS
FOR FIRE DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL. (TERM OF AGREEMENT:
7/1/93 THRU 6/30/96)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Thayer, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
b. PARADE OF LIGHTS, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 1994 - File 11-19 X (SRRA) R-181
Councilmember Cohen announced that Brigit Moran, Coordinator of the Parade of
Lights has invited Councilmembers and staff to ride on cable cars leading the
parade on Friday, November 25th; meet at 5:30 PM at Fire Station No. 1.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 10:17 PM.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
1994
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