HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPJT Minutes 1995-06-27SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 1
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, TUESDAY, JUNE, 27, 1995, AT 7:00 PM
Special Joint Meeting Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor/Chairman
San Rafael City Council/ Paul M. Cohen, Councilmember/Member
San Rafael Redevelopment Agency Barbara Heller, Councilmember/Member
Gary O. Phillips, Councilmember/Member
David J. Zappetini, Councilmember/Member
Absent: None
Others Present: Pamela J. Nicolai, City Manager/Executive Director
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk/Agency Secretary
BUDGET HEARINGS - 1995/96 BUDGET - File 8-5 x (SRRA) R-103
Mayor/Chairman Boro described the process to be followed for the Budget Hearings. He announced
that the Council/Agency is continuing the Budget Hearings from last night, and asked the City
Manager for an update on several items which were discussed last night.
City Manager/Executive Director Nicolai noted several items which had been highlighted last
night, such as the process with the Budget Oversight Committee (BOC), and staff's recommendation
relating to the Federal Crimes Bill and other issues brought up by the Councilmembers throughout
the budget. She stated she now has in writing, in the form of a memo from Finance Director
Coleman, the updated information which came in after the budget had gone to print and before
last night's meeting. The information indicates that our sales tax picture of last year came
in the last quarter a little lower than estimated, which means the sales tax, and also the
hotel tax for this coming year, needed to be adjusted down slightly. However, we have greater
savings this year than we had originally thought when the budget went to print, so that is
an improvement. We also had to subtract out of next year's budget some money for the savings
we thought we were going to have in the dental plan. The bottom line is that the budget message
as it is printed in the book indicates that there is going to be a $332, 600 draw down on reserves.
With the Council's concurrence of using the savings from this year, the actual amount will
be closer to $171,000.
Concerning another item discussed last night, Ms. Nicolai stated with the General Accounting
Standards Board's new decision that we should do sales tax on an accrual basis rather than
a cash basis, this could mean that our General Fund balance this fiscal year will end up $650, 000
higher than we have in the printed budget, up to possibly $1.3 million because of the shift
in the way it is going to be accounted for. She noted Finance Director Coleman will be working
with the auditors and other communities in the State, as to how everyone will deal with it
and when we have more definitive information it will be brought back to the Council.
Ms. Nicolai stated that Mr. Coleman's memo also includes information from Fire Chief Marcucci
with reference to the Vegetation Management Program as requested last night. There is also
a memo from Assistant City Manager Golt regarding the Management Training.
CULTURAL & RECREATIONAL SERVICES
LIBRARY (Page 35)
Ms. Nicolai stated that the Library budget has very few changes. The key item which was
implemented last year was the automation program. Ms. Nicolai noted that under Authorized
Positions a change should be made: Library Assistant Supervisor should be shown as 1.0 instead
of 0, and the position below it, Library Assistant, should be shown as 3.9 instead of 4.9.
The total authorized positions remain as proposed. She noted the Library is in a transition
period at present because of the automation.
Library Director Vaughn Stratford stated he would like to underscore what Ms. Nicolai said
about this being a time of transition for the Library since we are heavily involved in
implementing the automation system, and that is the primary focus of the activity. He noted
it will involve long-term restructuring of the staffing as the automation is implemented.
Ms. Nicolai added that she had mentioned in the budget message the concern about the dwindling
of the Davidson Bequest. In the past it was used as an incremental supplement to the Book
Budget and now it is reaching the point of 50% supplement, and she feels it will wipe the
fund out in a short period of time. Staff definitely concurs in the Worthy But Unfunded list,
that if that money does become available it be seriously considered that the Davidson Bequest
funds not be used for the Book Budget draw down, and that we make a concerted effort to re -fund
that back to the General Fund commitment, and preserve the Davidson Bequest. The Bequest
has been a valuable asset to help fund not only the automation, but it was a component of
being able to address the emergency facility repairs we did. To keep it as a special fund
and allow it to grow again would be prudent. Mayor/Chairman Boro agreed, and stated that
issue can be discussed under Library Special Revenue, on page 114.
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Councilmember/Member Heller inquired if half of the purchasing of books is coming out of the
Library budget and the other half from the Davidson fund? Mr. Stratford replied that more
than half is coming from the Davidson fund at this point, $6,378. Councilmember/Member Heller
then inquired how many hours the Library is open at present. Mr. Stratford replied that on
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday they are open 11 hours, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Friday
and Saturday.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted Mr. Stratford mentioned that with automation there was
a significant change in the operations. He asked if that would increase the cost of operations
within the next couple of years, or would it decrease? Mr. Stratford replied that there are
certain aspects of the operation for which the cost should decrease. That would be in the
record keeping and circulation functions. He envisions, in terms of the budget, that we would
reallocate those monies for the professional staff. With the automation there will be a need
for greater assistance by professional librarians in the use of information resources.
Councilmember/Member Phillips asked about greater availability of the Library services to
home access, as has been discussed in the past, and asked if there are sufficient funds to
promote that accessibility to community members who may not be aware that such a service will
be provided? Mr. Stratford replied they have only promoted it within the Library, the way
they promote all of their other services. There is no special budget for such promotion.
It has been promoted through current users of the Library. He noted there are four staff
members "surfing" the Internet, and they can find out about access through the MariNet catalog
as well. There was a small press release when it was initiated. Councilmember/Member Phillips
stated he hopes the Library will continue that kind of promotion.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked for an explanation about the increase in Supplies and Services
and how it breaks down. He noted there was mention about the increased cost of the computerized
systems. Mr. Stratford replied that is the major change in that category. Also, the costs
for the automated services are allocated among the various programs. The Technical Services
budget is going to go up because we will be entering items which are not in the data base
at present. It will go up and then back down in the next few years.
Mayor/Chairman Boro commented on the 32,000 volunteer hours, which is tremendous. Also, having
the professional staff interface more with the public through the automated services is a
good step forward, and when he visits the Library it is always bustling with activity.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to approve the
Library budget in concept in the amount of $819,657.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
NON -DEPARTMENTAL
LIBRARY SPECIAL REVENUE FUND (Page 114)
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted this is the fund which includes the Davidson Bequest funds from
which $78,000 would be used for the purchase of books. The City Manager had mentioned in
her budget message that we had, in the past, used this fund for a draw -down on books and for
some of the major renovations, with the result that this fund will be depleted in the next
several years at the rate we are going. He stated that staff's suggestion is that we try
to fund the acquisition of books entirely out of the General Fund for this year, and that
the interest on the Bequest would hopefully be allowed to grow.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired if there is a specific intention for the Davidson
Bequest, and was it earmarked for something? He stated that the purchase of books would seem
appropriate. Ms. Nicolai explained that at the time the bequest was donated, there were no
restrictions, but it was approximately $400,000 + at that time, and the Council felt it should
be set aside for special uses and not just used for operating costs. It grew up to $800,000,
and it became a leveraging amount to deal with a new building. We went for a State grant,
which we were going to match with Redevelopment money and have a project down at Third and
"C" Streets, since that appeared to be a legitimate use, but the project fell through because
we did not get the State funding. It was at that point in time that we limited the draw -down
to using it to supplement the book budget, because that seemed proper. We had the earthquake
problems in 1989 and drew some of it down. The only policy restriction was the philosophy
of saying "let's do special things with it". The automation, the books and the facility repairs
are the main uses which have occurred. With the improvement in the economic picture, it does
not seem prudent to use the funds as we have, since if we do it would be gone in four years.
Perhaps the $78,000 could be lowered to $50,000. Also, the interest is now down, so the
fund does not replenish as it did in the past.
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Councilmember/Member Cohen stated we need to think carefully about a strategy for the Davidson
Bequest. He feels we would be making a mistake if we used it as a supplement to the operating
budget, which is really what we are doing by buying new books to put into
circulation. He asked about the current earned interest, and Mr. Coleman stated it is about
50. Councilmember/Member Cohen noted that with the $400,000 in the fund, it would earn $20,000
to $25, 000 interest over the coming year. He proposed that we put $55, 000 toward books purchased
from the General Fund, and use the interest from the Davidson Bequest to supplement the book
budget for this year, and that sometime during this year we all do our best to carry out one
of the goals of this department, which is to meet with staff and the Library Board and develop
a long-term strategy and policy statement for the Davidson Bequest. That would be his
recommendation.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini asked if we should put in the whole amount instead of just
$55,000. Councilmember/Member Cohen replied he had thought about that, and that is a reasonable
position, but we have a number of items on Worthy But Unfunded Projects list which we still
need to talk about. There are a couple of cost items which we will discuss this evening,
and pending the outcome of the change from cash to accrual basis for sales tax, we should
be careful about striking a balance. There are a number of worthy $20,000 requests to be
considered. He stated he would be willing to put $50,000 from the General Fund toward the
purchase of books, with the balance to come from the Davidson Bequest, so the Bequest would
be earning interest to supplement the book purchases. Councilmember/Member Phillips stated
he would support the suggestion by Councilmember/Member Cohen.
Regarding the other funds in this budget, Councilmember/Member Cohen stated he is assuming
that these funds balance, and are what staff expects to spend and receive. Ms. Nicolai explained
they try to accumulate the revenue before they incur the expenditures.
Councilmember/Member Heller stated she feels that continuing to fund the Friends of the Library
Program through the Davidson Bequest is an excellent use of the funds. Mr. Stratford added
that the Friends during this past year purchased a computer change machine and other things
for the Library.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated he fully supports the direction the Council is going. He believes
we have an example here of a special fund. We have another building for which we are trying
to build a special fund, and he thinks that the Bequest has been used prudently. When we
used it for operating expenses there was a real reason for it. The tide has turned now, and
the course we are starting to set is positive. The idea of meeting with the Library Board
this year to come up with goals and objectives for the use of the Bequest is very good.
No one in the audience wished to comment.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to conceptually
approve the Library Special Revenue budget, in the amount of $94,500, with the modification
that $50, 000 of the amount earmarked for purchase of books will come from General Fund revenues
instead of from the Davidson Bequest.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
LIBRARY
CULTURAL AFFAIRS (Pages 38/40)
Ms. Nicolai reported that the Cultural Affairs budget contains many of the same programs as
before. The biggest thing we need to continue is the Capital Campaign. She explained that
while the budget indicates a slight decrease in the number of hours for the person dedicated
to the Development Program, we have been working since the budget went to print to find ways
to bring that back up to the same kind of time commitment we have had this last year. That
is critical to keeping the fundraising effort and the good momentum which has been achieved
over the last year in raising money for the capital improvements, which we have on the list,
as well as the development of the plan. It will be reinstated to the same degree as proposed
in the past, and the details will be worked out within the next couple of weeks.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked Ms. Nicolai to comment on the letter received from the Chairman
of the Cultural Affairs Commission. Ms. Nicolai stated that she has discussed it with staff
in the past. She does not have a problem with the activity nodes, developing revenue accounts
which somehow accrue to their purpose. She feels that at this point in time she would recommend
that, rather than isolate a single revenue source, at the end of the year if all revenue sources
have at least met their goals and expenditures have not exceeded the proposed expenditures,
and there is a net gain at the end of the year, that would go into a special fund, and the
Council could recommend how it be used. But, until the year-end and you know that is an
actual net gain, it is risky to pick out a single revenue source and say if it exceeds that,
you could keep it; and then find out that other revenue sources went down and you have not
achieved a balance budget.
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Councilmember/Member Cohen stated he noticed one of the Goals and Objectives was to increase
the earned income by 750. He would like to see it increased at least that amount. One issue
to be discussed is to find a way for Falkirk to begin to pay for itself. One of the most
exciting things he got out of the presentation recently on the Master Plan for the landscaping
was the reference to building a pavilion, and funding it through a partnership with a private
provider to handle catering and restaurant use on site. That revenue could be used for
construction of the pavilion, and eventually for the maintenance of the grounds. He noted
that to implement this plan for improving the grounds, without having the funding for maintaining
it, would not make sense. He does not presently find any General Fund revenues we could put
into it. He stated this would be a plan to consider during the next year. Development of
a financial plan for Falkirk needs to be discussed with the Cultural Affairs Commission and
staff. As an incentive, we could say that any surplus over the budget in rental fees could
be used toward the Capital Improvement Fund. Ms. Nicolai responded that, on the other hand,
part of our goal has been to put some Capital Improvement money to leverage improvements that
increase the revenue to offset their costs, to indicate that we want them to achieve greater
offset of operations instead of finding new ways to spend it. Those are the two competing
forces. Councilmember/Member Cohen agreed, but stated that until we have a plan for how that
happens, we should say that if they develop a surplus in an account, they can keep it for
special projects.
Mr. Stratford added that we have a current grant from the Marin Community Foundation to do
an economic analysis of Falkirk, and ways that it can become self-supporting and generate
more revenue. That is part of the task to be addressed in the grant within the next year.
Councilmember/Member Cohen inquired how much money was generated by the donation which is
requested for viewing the house and the exhibits? Falkirk Director Carol Adney responded
we ask for $2.00 per person, and the revenue was $4,000. Councilmember/Member Cohen stated
there are 17,000 people through the door on an annual basis, and we are only getting $4,000.
He is not prepared to say at this point that he feels we should have a charge for that.
Ms. Nicolai explained that is a composite of walk-throughs, and would include receptions,
etc. Mayor/Chairman Boro stated that would be a subject for our workshop with the Commission
and how many events potentially the $4,000 came from, and how many people have attended the
various functions.
Mayor/Chairman Boro urged that if there are some things the Commission would like to do this
next year, whether or not they cost some money, he would like them to feel free to come to
the Council and make us aware of what they might be. As an example, the Commission outdid
themselves on the event they sponsored for the artists after the Street Painting Festival.
There were a lot of donations, but if any money came out of their pockets, it should be
considered. He stated this Commission has really taken hold and is reaching out to the
community. We should try to help, within a reasonable basis.
Falkirk Director Carol Adney stated that one of the Commissioners who was very much involved
with the budget this year suggested to her that we consider, on a quarterly basis, what our
quarterly goal would be for earnings of rental income, and anything over our goal for that
quarter could then be utilized for specific projects at Falkirk. She added that would be
a motivating factor, because every month we would be trying to get the income so that when
we reached our goal we would have more to spend on specific projects.
Mayor/Chairman Boro responded that he feels the best the Council can do tonight is to agree
with the idea in concept, and then when we have the workshop we can talk about specifics and
other options.
Councilmember/Member Phillips stated that in principle he does not have a problem with the
suggestion because it is a motivator, and the money would be well spent. However, the revenues
last year were $21,000, and he would like to ask Finance Director Coleman whether or not this
budget provides for $21,000, or is it more since we have somewhat enhanced the facility?
Mr. Coleman responded he believes the estimate is a straight line across the board, and we
are not expecting any additional revenue in the next fiscal year.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini noted the Council had approved $40,000 for the painting of
the building, and asked if that is in this budget? Ms. Nicolai explained that the loan is
not in here, because that was an expenditure in this current fiscal year, and there is a
commitment on their part to continue through the fund raising effort on the Capital Campaign
to bring that money in and pay us back. Councilmember/Member Zappetini asked if any part
of
it has been paid back, and Ms. Nicolai responded that $20,000 of the $40,000 has been raised.
She added that is shown on page 116, under Falkirk Special Fund, under several of the
accounts. There was a general discussion of the various accounts, and what they covered.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated he feels it would be worthwhile for staff to provide a memo
explaining the total cost, where the monies came from, and where it stands now.
Councilmember/Member Cohen stated he would like to at least plan for repayment of that loan.
Mayor/Chairman Boro admonished Ms. Adney that when the Council has the meeting with staff
and the Commission and talk about this proposal from the Commission, we all have an understanding
of how it will work so that at the end of the year nobody will be disappointed.
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Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if any members of the audience wished to address the Council.
Mr. Wayne Lechner, a former Cultural Affairs Commissioner and former Falkirk Volunteer,
explained that he chose not to continue on the Commission, partly because of how he was treated
at Falkirk as a volunteer. He noted that a year ago he had spoken to the Council stating
that Falkirk has potential and he believes in it, and urged that the Council support the budget.
He stated he made a great personal sacrifice for Falkirk, donating 5 hours per week for one
year to Falkirk, 50 weeks, and committed $50 a week for one year ($2,500) to Falkirk. He
attended all of the major events and participated. He gave his suggestions, brought in 10
to 15 people each month for maintenance and upkeep of the grounds. He asked, "What services
does Falkirk provide to the community which merits $150,000 a year?" He stated that when
he sees the Police, Fire and Weed Abatement out in the community he knows they are doing their
job. He stated this is his community. He grew up here. Falkirk is perceived as elitist,
private, exclusive, and it is hard to get beyond that perception.
Mr. Lechner pointed out that when he coordinated the dinner for the artists last year, he
used $120 out of his pocket, and another volunteer contributed $100 out of her pocket, as
did a member of the Commission, because there was no budget for the event.
Mr. Lechner stated he hopes that the City Council will get involved with helping the Commission
and Falkirk find the direction that works for the community. He added he would like, at some
time, to see a public forum organized by the Cultural Affairs Commission, with the presence
of a couple of City Councilmembers, the volunteers, staff and the public.
Mayor/Chairman Boro assured Mr. Lechner that the Council very much appreciates his efforts.
He added that he will instruct the City Clerk that when the workshop meeting is set that
he be advised, so he can attend if he wishes.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to approve the
Cultural Affairs budget in concept, in the amount of $154,943.
Mayor/Chairman Boro added that the budget is approved in concept and that the specifics will
be worked out at a joint meeting between the Cultural Affairs Commission and the City Council.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
RECREATION (Pages 42/49)
Ms. Nicolai gave a history of the Recreation budget commencing about 15 years ago when they
became 100% self-supporting. In order not to have too heavy a burden on the Department to
maintain the 100% self-support, staff identified two components which they felt were a minimal
commitment of the General Fund. That is to maintain three recreation centers, basically with
a half-time supervisor, half-time secretary, and some maintenance people, and with certain
administrative overhead. Any costs beyond that became a component which would become part
of the revolving fund, and had to be funded through the fee structure of the programs themselves.
The funds to be reviewed by the Council are the Administrative - General Fund, and the Revolving
Fund, which gets into the programmatic areas which are separate. The fund staff is concerned
about the most is the General Fund, because that is the part which is in competition with
other departments. The Revolving Fund wanes and waxes, and the fluctuations in the programs
are offset by the revenue.
Ms. Nicolai pointed out that, like the other departments, there is some restructuring in some
of the divisions, but overall there is very little change in the proposed budget.
Recreation Director Sharon McNamee stated they have not made any significant changes, but
have reorganized the Aquatics Division, and will be doing a little more due to a change in
staff. She noted they are in their second year of the Pickleweed Park Kids Club, which is
doing very well. There is a new developmentally disabled program at Terra Linda, in
collaboration with several agencies. They have purchased Jumping Jacks program equipment
from a private contractor who is closing their business. Ms. McNamee described improvements
in the various parks, and added they have been quite successful in their grants program.
Mayor/Chairman Boro informed Ms. McNamee that the Council just had a discussion on outstanding
loans from the Council, and asked if there are any outstanding loans to the Parks Division
on Capital Projects. Ms. McNamee responded there is $40,000 outstanding to the Bocce
Federation. Mayor/Chairman Boro confirmed that it is being monitored.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if there were any questions on the General Fund budget on pages
42 through 45.
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Councilmember/Member Phillips noted that under Goals and Objectives it states, "Develop reserve
account for Child Care portable replacement". He asked how much that will run. Ms. McNamee
responded they are just going to start developing that this year. They have several Child
Care portables all over town, which were purchased over the last 10 or 12 years, and they
are going to start generating a fund to replace the buildings over the next 10 - 15 years.
In response to Mr. Phillips' question on the process, Ms. McNamee replied staff has not
determined how it will be done. Some will come from revenues from the program, and they may
do some fundraising. It would be set aside in a separate fund so it will earn interest, and
be there when it is needed. Ms. Nicolai added that the Child Care fund has been used to purchase
the portables, and for other purposes within the program, including Capital Improvements.
All of the salary increases and related improvements to benefits for the employees have been
funded by its own revenue. It has operated that way since the '70s. It is outside of the
General Fund balance. Mr. Coleman added that these funds stay in the fund from year to year.
Ms. McNamee noted that they do not consider expenditures for the small Capital Improvements
until about May of each year, when they can see just how their budget stands.
Councilmember/Member Cohen stated that the development of a reserve account makes sense.
There is one division, at least, which has achieved what the Council has been discussing.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini asked about the grant writing, and asked if there is an overlap
in that area. He asked if we have a contract for someone to do grants for the City. Ms.
Nicolai responded that we have talked about that in the past, but there is no money in the
budget to do that, and never has been. All of the departments who get grants do it with their
own staff. Mr. Zappetini then spoke of the issue of the condition of the tennis courts, and
the revenue stream, under Goals and Objectives. Ms. McNamee explained that what they are
looking at is a variety of options, such as selling passes, as other Marin cities do. Some
of the tennis professionals are proposing a small kiosk out of which they could conduct their
tennis lessons, and perhaps generate money by renting ball machines. Staff has also looked
at the use of "coin -op" lights. The Park and Recreation Commission will be looking at options,
and then based on some kind of commitment, we would come and ask for funding to do the courts
on that basis.
Ms. Nicolai noted that one item which could be added to the Worthy But Unfunded list is the
tennis courts, where anywhere from $15,000 up to the full cost of the project could be allocated,
and could be considered either a loan or leveraging money. There is energy presently formulated
around the tennis court issue, and the $15,000 seed money would help create the incentive.
The small amount of money could generate more enthusiasm around the project.
Ms. Nicolai added there is also the Boyd Park issue, which ties into the proposed museum
expansion. The Park and Recreation Commission, when they reviewed the proposal from the Marin
Historical Society for the expanded museum, felt that they might want to take a quick look
at the whole Boyd Park area, and how this all fits together. Perhaps $15,000 for a quick
review of Boyd Park might be prudent, with a view toward a Master Plan for the park. Staff
is not asking for that tonight, but would like the Council to consider it while there are
community groups which are enthusiastic, and to add those two items to the Worthy But Unfunded
List.
Councilmember/Member Heller stated it was her understanding that the Marin Historical Society
has a grant in hand to do a needs assessment study. Ms. Nicolai explained they have money
to do their needs assessment only. Ms. McNamee added the Historical Society would be using
the front of the park, under the tennis courts. Staff wants to integrate what they are doing
with upgrading the playground which needs to be re -done. A number of the neighbors have been
asking for that. Also, there is some Parkland Dedication money to do that, and while the
Historical Society is doing their planning, we would like to start an assessment.
Mayor/Chairman Boro suggested that the tennis courts be discussed when we get to the Worthy
But Unfunded list. He noted staff could come back a month or two from now and ask for money
out of the Unappropriated Reserves for a project. He asked for discussion on the balance
of the Recreation Revolving Fund, if there are questions.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini inquired about volleyball, which is in for the first time this
year. Ms. McNamee explained that was just separated out this year, as part of the department's
reorganization, and as part of identifying the program areas. There is a very large Marin
Juniors Program, and volleyball is growing. There are Citywide teen tournaments, and staff
decided to put it into a separate fund so it can be closely monitored. That was done with
tennis last year, and was very effective. Councilmember/Member Zappetini asked what fund
it came from, and Ms. McNamee responded it came out of the Athletics Fund, which was divided
into several pieces last Spring.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked about the Child Care Revolving Fund, and the closure of the
Vallecito Preschool. Ms. McNamee explained that Dixie School District is needing to expand
on their campus at Vallecito, and they need the classroom we were using for Preschool. There
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were options considered about staying on campus, but they proved to be very costly. The staff
running that program will be absorbed in other areas. We will operate through the Summer
and not continue in September.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if anyone in the audience would like to address the Council on the
Recreation budget. There was no one who spoke.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to approve the
Recreation Department budget in concept, in the amount of $500,922 (Administration - General
Fund), and the Revolving Fund budget in the amount of $2,557,167.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
FALKIRK SPECIAL REVENUE FUND (Page 116)
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that he had neglected to ask for a motion on the Falkirk Special
Revenue Fund, although the Council discussed it.
Councilmember/Member Heller moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to approve in
concept the Falkirk Special Revenue Fund as presented.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PLANNING (Pages 52/55)
Planning Director Robert Pendoley stated there is no substantial growth in any area of the
Planning Department budget, and nothing of major financial significance. There are a couple
of projects underway which will be finished soon. One is the Montecito Neighborhood Plan,
and the other is the Downtown General Plan Zoning Amendments. They will both be done by
mid -fiscal year. In the second half of the year we would like to get ready to update the
General Plan but would like to plan for a workshop, which would focus on the circulation element
first. He added that last year at budget time the permit load was up 150, and that reflects
a change in the economy. We were able to handle it mostly because of the changes we made
to the Zoning Ordinance in 1992, when some of the required permits were eliminated and other
permits were streamlined by having them administered at the Zoning Administration level, rather
than Planning Commission, with less paperwork involved.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted that salaries had decreased slightly, and yet the number
of positions remained the same. Mr. Pendoley explained that we have not made a decision yet,
but are anticipating there may be a reclassification of one of the clerical positions in the
office, which would reduce the salary level.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that staff had started work this year on ways to facilitate the
public through the Planning process, with informational handouts, and he is aware they are
planning to do more. There has been very good comment on that program.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked about the reconfiguration and redirection of the Design Review Board.
Mr. Pendoley responded that is being worked on at present. We first have to rewrite the
Ordinance to implement much of the process before we make the changes on the Board.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that when we had the hearings on the remodeling on Wildwood Way
there was discussion about the Hillside Design Guidelines Ordinance. He assumes staff will
be following through on that issue. Mr. Pendoley responded that Principal Planner Sheila
Delimont, who has the most experience on that program, is presently preparing an issues paper,
and we hope to bring it to the Council in August with options for the Council's consideration.
Councilmember/Member Cohen inquired about the Associate/Assistant Planner positions, which
showed one position partially funded by Redevelopment. However, in this year's budget, the
reference to Redevelopment was dropped. Mr. Coleman explained that in previous years the
full salary was in there, but we were paid back by the Redevelopment Agency.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked if the Canal Code Enforcement Program is still expected
to be completed. Mr. Pendoley responded that staff has inspected all but a very few buildings.
We did not inspect the newest buildings. Out of all of those inspected, 820 of the units
have been filed. We are down to 5 buildings, which are going to need continuing attention
from Building Inspection, and one inspector is working on those units. For all intents and
purposes, Planning Department is finished with the program.
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Councilmember/Member Heller asked what is the "Begin GIS implementation" under Goals and
Objectives? Mr. Pendoley explained that GIS means "Geographic Information System", which
is mapping. Public Works has built a system which is a digitized map of the City in the
computer, and we can add various kinds of data to the system. For example, we could put all
of the zoning information and permit information on the map. It is a very fine planning
tool. Ms. Nicolai added it will be used by most of the departments. Each department has
different layers of information. It will become a tremendous resource for the entire City.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated that sometime over the course of this year he would like to have
a session with Public Works on this subject, to fully realize the capabilities of the program.
Councilmember/Member Cohen noted there is an item under Worthy But Unfunded projects for
$1,000 for the computer to run this program.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired about "Implement a program budget" under Goals and
Objectives. Mr. Pendoley explained that with this budget they have broken the department
budget down into four components: Administration, Current Planning, Advanced Planning, and
Code Enforcement. Staff would like to take the next step and actually make charges against
those breakdowns, as well as revenues, and give the Council a clearer picture of how the money
is spent and what kind of product the City is getting in return for that. Ms. Nicolai explained
that with some departments it is a much clearer activity, such as in Public Works, including
their utilization of manpower. Some of the departments are now coding their activities to
capture more information, so there is a clearer picture at the end of the year.
Councilmember/Member Phillips stated that at the end of the year he would be interested in
seeing how we stand in this regard in each of the departments.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked what the goals are for Code Enforcement, given the wrapping
up of the Canal Program? Mr. Pendoley explained there is a lot of "catch up" work to do there.
He noted that in the past year we operated for 9 months with one person doing the Canal Program,
as well as trying to keep up with Citywide issues, and the Council was informed that would
result in some cutbacks on Citywide code enforcement. The workload is behind at present,
and we have an arrangement with the Police Department where they are doing the abandoned vehicle
abatement on a trial basis. Mr. Pendoley added that he would like to assess all of the procedures
and see if we can find better enforcement tools than we have at present.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini noted they had spoken recently about contractors working out
of their homes, and people abusing that right, although some people are doing it legitimately.
He would like to see some action taken toward people abusing it. He noted that in the industrial
areas of the City there are cases where there are illegal mezzanine floors in warehouses.
If we enforce the Code in such cases, we may be forcing the businesses out of the area. Ms.
Nicolai stated that is a policy decision that the Council has to make. She noted that staff's
goal is to enforce what is on the books, which has been approved by this and previous Councils.
She stated that the Code does have impact, but not enforcing it would have impact because
it would deal with compliance with the General Plan formula for FAR's (Floor Area Ratios).
She noted that there are cases recently where landscape contractors are operating out of
their homes, and the neighbors are complaining as the activities expand. She stated that
staff is bringing these issues to the Council because staff cannot "pick and choose" as to
when we do or do not enforce the Code. That is something to be addressed by the full Council.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini inquired if, when a person applies for his license to operate
out of his home, and shows the number of employees, when does it become a problem? Ms. Nicolai
responded that they sometimes do not put the actual number of employees, and then the neighbors
call and complain. Mayor/Chairman Boro stated we are getting beyond the realm of budget,
but he would like staff to come back with a report. He noted we have specific codes, especially
in the area of warehouses, and if warehouse space becomes less desirable than office space,
we cannot close our eyes to it, regardless of what the consequences might be, unless we want
to change our policy. If there are options to review, we can have a discussion, but we have
to understand our policy, and if we need to change it, we can. Mr. Pendoley replied he will
prepare a report.
No one from the audience spoke.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to approve the
Planning Department budget in concept, in the amount of $707,817.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PUBLIC WORKS
CONSOLIDATED (Pages 56/57)
Ms. Nicolai reported that the Public Works budget is status quo. As is customary, it is broken
down into various positions to give the Council an idea of the programmatic aspects.
She noted that in listing certain positions, it shows not the individual bodies, but the number
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of person hours which go into these functions.
Public Works Director David Bernardi pointed out that in the Consolidated Budget, on page
57, there is an increase of one position, the NPDES (National Pollution Discharge Elimination
System) position, which is funded by the Storm Drainage Program. He noted that San Rafael
pays a portion of that. For the next fiscal year it is projected to be approximately $115, 000,
and the Council will be considering on July 17th a proposed $15.00 fee to fund this program,
as well as other Capital Improvements. He stated that the other changes in the overall budget
reflect the inclusion of monies for the San Quentin crew, about $15,000. We get them about
every six weeks. We added a few thousand dollars because we have a standing agreement with
San Quentin that if one city does not want to take them, we will. We pay about $1,100 a week
for the cost of the guard. Mr. Bernardi noted that funding is also included for NPDES, the
Storm Drainage Program, and also about $10,000 for a new program for Graffiti Abatement.
He added that he and Assistant City Manager Golt are working right now on some issues with
the Canal Community Alliance to develop their program, since the grant for the Police Department
will be ending in a few weeks. Other than that, there is minor capital outlay being requested.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted that Salaries & Wages went up about $135,000, and yet
Fringe Benefits went down by $40,000. Mr. Coleman explained that one of the big changes is
the liability, or Workers' Compensation accounts, as discussed last night in the case of the
Police Department. The Public Works Department has reduced the Workers' Compensation amount,
under Fringe Benefits. Ms. Nicolai added that we have had several retirements of long term
employees over the last couple of years, and they have not been filled, or have been replaced
by positions with lower salary levels and different benefit packages, and that would have
an affect as well. Several were management level positions.
Councilmember/Member Phillips complimented Mr. Bernardi on the work done on the Capital
Improvement Program, in relation to the Goals and Objectives. He stated it is well structured.
Mr. Bernardi responded that Lloyd Strom set up this procedure before he retired, and it will
serve us well for the future.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini noted that the anticipated budget shows we are going to lose
two Assistant Civil Engineers. Mr. Bernardi explained that they have been reclassified.
Instead of calling them Assistant Civil Engineers they are now Engineer I and Engineer II.
ADMINISTRATION/ENGINEERING (Pages 58/59)
There were no questions from the Councilmembers.
STREET MAINTENANCE (Pages 60/63)
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked if we can look at recapturing the Street Sweeping costs,
since they have been identified as part of the Storm Water Pollution Control, and can we fund
some of the Street Sweeping costs out of NPDES? Mr. Bernardi explained that at this point
in time, under the proposed $15.00 fee the Street Cleaning Program is not included. He noted
that at the recent retreat the Council discussed what kinds of items would be paid for under
the fee, and one of the very clear messages was that the fee should not fund any existing
programs, only the new requirements under the NPDES Program. He added that the law allows
you to fund the Street Cleaning Program. He noted that on page 60 it is shown as $152,000.
Ms. Nicolai added that at this point in time the $15.00 fee will cover the Countywide program.
Those costs are continuing, and a few dollars of that goes to the Countywide program, in
every jurisdiction. The remainder of the $15.00 will become part of what each jurisdiction
uses to fund their unique programs. We could expand Street Sweeping since it is, by definition
by the agencies, an important component because it does address part of the problem. We have
some open drainage ditches which might be allowing siltation. Those are items which will
be identified as clearly addressing those issues. Our share of the Countywide cost will be
$115,000, based on $15.00. She would recommend we use our share for Capital needs, and/or
increase the Street Sweeping as a component of addressing that program.
After further discussion, Councilmember/Member Cohen asked that as part of the discussion
on July 17th, staff could prepare a report on what a reasonable position would be on the portion
of the existing Street Sweeping Program, which really is tied to the Federal mandate we have
been discussing. Councilmember/Member Heller noted that on page 62 staff mentions they would
also like storm drains to be funded by this, including the storm water pump stations. Mr.
Bernardi explained that the $230,000 which would be raised by the $15.00 fee would go toward
funding the storm drain and pump station renovations. He added the fee can be looked at annually
and adjusted by the Council, so they could change priorities later.
Mayor/Chairman Boro referred to page 61, where it states that "New water -base paints have
longer drying times and do not wear as well as oil -base paints and require more frequent
repainting." He noted that on page 63 it indicates that 106,100 lineal feet were painted
in 1993, and 71,768 lineal feet in 1994. He pointed out they are painting less and it is
lasting less. Mr. Bernardi responded that is correct. There have been complaints from the
Police Department that it is hard to enforce painted curb markings. He explained that 1993
was a "catch up" year, so 1994 and 1995 will show less painting.
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Councilmember/Member Phillips noted that on page 62, under Goals and Objectives, it includes
"To evaluate new methods and equipment in order to more economically maintain City streets."
He asked if that is ongoing, or is it specific for this year? Mr. Bernardi responded that
it is an ongoing effort. We like to review whatever materials and methods are available under
new technology which might be economically feasible.
LAND DEVELOPMENT (Pages 64/65)
No comment.
PARKS/STREET TREES & ISLANDS (Pages 68/71)
Mayor/Chairman Boro inquired if we have done anything formally this past year as far as working
with the neighborhoods concerning maintaining the islands with volunteers. Mr. Bernardi
responded that there has been some progress. The Villa Real Homeowners Association has taken
over the maintenance of the island on Manderly Road. At this point in time they have hired
a contractor to do that, and it seems to be working well. We removed a lot of the old landscaping
which was there, and their landscaper came in and replanted it all. We are also working with
a consortium of homeowners' associations all along San Pedro Road, and they want to enter
into the same mode of maintenance where either they will go out and pull the weeds and pay
to have a contractor maintain it, or have a combination of volunteer labor and contractors.
Thus far, it is very promising. Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if we had sprayed this year, and
Mr. Bernardi replied we sprayed twice. He noted that where the weeds are growing heaviest
are the areas in the County jurisdiction. We are doing nothing within the County jurisdiction,
since they have cut-off all funding. In the past they contracted with the City to do the
weeding in their jurisdiction.
Councilmember/Member Heller inquired, to whom in Public Works could she refer a neighborhood
association about maintaining their own medians? Mr. Bernardi replied that Tom Rothenberger
will be handling that, and has been working with the homeowners' associations on San Pedro
Road.
Councilmember/Member Cohen inquired, when a situation like this arises, has Public Works ever
thought about submitting a bid for the work when neighborhood groups are hiring a contractor?
Mr. Bernardi replied that the reason we are not maintaining the islands now is because we
have diverted our manpower to maintain our parks and other landscaped areas. About 350 of
the Trees and Islands crew time is actually spent on trees and islands. The rest of the time
it is supplementing the Parks Maintenance in park areas. It is a question of manpower. About
four or five years ago this was brought before the Council, and the decision was made to give
priority to maintenance of the parks over the trees and islands.
Ms. Nicolai noted that as this program gets more voluminous, a bid could actually add a person
who could do it on overtime, without diminishing our services, if we find there are enough
neighborhoods out there who are willing to do that. It might prove to be worthwhile, as long
as the Council is comfortable with staff taking that step. It would be similar to the idea
of the Police competing with security companies. Mayor/Chairman Boro stated he is not as
concerned about the competition as he is about the neighborhoods' feelings about paying for
services, unless it is truly a cost benefit to them. He stated that possibly we could try
the bid process, with the same result as using the Police for security jobs. Councilmember/
Member Cohen stated he thinks it is worth exploring. He would like to know whether or not
we could put together a competitive bid for that work, since we already have the equipment
and that cost is built in.
Councilmember/Member Cohen referred to the maintenance of the median strips, and recalled
that in the past we had a process for "coning off" the median strips so that homeowners' groups
could go out and do the maintenance. Mr. Bernardi explained that the Glenwood Homeowners'
Association had a clean-up day on a Saturday, about six months ago. Because we have one person
who works on Saturdays, we assigned him to go to the area and set-up the cones. He essentially
was there with the truck and the flashing lights warning drivers to stay away from the median
island. It worked out well. Councilmember/Member Cohen stated he was approached by someone
in Terra Linda who was interested in doing that. Ms. Nicolai stated that last year we did
that in Terra Linda.
SANITARY SEWERS (Page 72)
Mr. Bernardi explained that this Division is totally funded by the San Rafael Sanitation
District, and all of the costs in the budget are passed on to the District as part of the
contractual arrangement the District has with the City. The District Board will be reviewing
the budget tomorrow morning.
GARAGE (Page 73)
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No comment.
SIGNAL/LIGHTING MAINTENANCE (Page 74)
No comment.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if anyone in the audience would like to address the Council on the
Public Works Budget.
Mr. Tom Obletz, a San Rafael resident, stated it was his understanding that the Graffiti
Abatement effort was being transferred from the Police Department under a State grant, which
expires at the end of the month, to Public Works. Mayor/Chairman Boro responded that is correct.
Mr. Obletz added that there was an intent to have $15,000 (Ms. Nicolai stated it is $10,000)
in overtime specific wages. He stated he thinks Graffiti Abatement in the City is important
enough that it should be a day-to-day base responsibility, and if it is considered applicable
to overtime wages, which are premium dollars, perhaps it is not as high priority as it might
be. He stated he appreciates the budget item, and it is important that there be continuity
in the transfer of the activity from the Police Department to Public Works, and he hopes that
moves ahead in the next fiscal year. Mayor/Chairman Boro stated he understands that $10,000
is in the budget, and the program is being worked on and will come back to the Council for
a future discussion.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked for a motion to conceptually approve the Public Works budget.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to conceptually
approve the Public Works Budget - Consolidated, $5,862,075, which includes:
Administration/Engineering, $879,262; Street Maintenance, $1,467,688; Land Development,
$422,829; Facility Repair, $256,958; Parks, $921,323; Street Trees & Islands, $459,959;
Sanitary Sewers, $518,027; Garage, $522,029; Signal/Lighting Maintenance, $414,000.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
GAS TAX (Page 106)
Ms. Nicolai referred to the Congestion Management Plan which is in the Non -departmental budget,
to be discussed later. It is funded by the General Fund, and $41,000 can be charged to this
fund. It would fit under Miscellaneous Right -of -Way Improvements. In other words, instead
of having $100,000 Miscellaneous ROW Improvements and/or $500,000 in Street Resurfacing,
$41, 000 would be listed in this budget as Congestion Management Plan commitment, when we discuss
the Capital Improvement Project list and Non -departmental.
There were no questions from the audience on the Gas Tax budget, and Mayor/Chairman Boro asked
for a motion.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to approve the
Gas Tax budget in concept, in the amount of $975,000.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
TRAFFIC MITIGATION (Pages 108/110)
Ms. Nicolai explained that the Traffic Mitigation budget tells you the projects which are
being proposed, as we are collecting these fees, and how those funds would be allocated.
That is required by law so the Council can keep before it the nexus between the fees which
are being charged and the projects which will occur. She noted the planned projects are listed
on page 109, and added that obviously they will not all be accomplished within the coming
year. There is also a list showing what has actually been done in 1994. Mr. Bernardi added
that these projects have been taken directly from the General Plan Transportation Element.
As the General Plan or the Transportation Element gets revised this project list will be
changed to reflect the new priorities of the Council. Mayor/Chairman Boro noted there will
also be the State grants to supplement the funds. Mr. Bernardi agreed.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired if there should be a correlation between the cost of
the planned projects and the amount we currently have? Mr. Bernardi responded that there
is. He explained that the Traffic Mitigation fee, which is charged every year, is set under
the General Plan. There is an index called the Lee -Saylor Index, which increases the Traffic
Mitigation fee charged by the City for a particular project. As inflation occurs, the
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SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 12
Mitigation Fee occurs, and we update the projects on an annual basis. While these numbers
reflect some older numbers, we still keep track of the numbers through inflation. Ms. Nicolai
added that local Traffic Mitigation fees alone cannot be the only resource to meet our $20
million goal, and State funds and other sources are being pursued.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired if we are in the position where we should be, in
connection with this program. Mr. Bernardi replied that we are, and cited the Merrydale
Overcrossing project, which was listed for $850,000 of Traffic Mitigation fees, and the
developers have paid about $1.5 million. In addition to that, we also obtained about
$1.2 million of ISTEA funds, and we also got other funds through buying other funds with existing
Traffic Mitigation fees. He explained the procedure for the future, using the current model
to project requirements for the future and noted that there is an annual review of how the
program is proceeding. Councilmember/Member Phillips stated he would like some reassurance
that at this point in time we are on target. He recommended the Council be given a report
on the progress of the program.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini noted that the figure of $110,000 is listed for a number of
projects, and asked the reason. Mr. Bernardi explained that is traffic signal installation,
which is estimated at $110,000 to install a signal at a particular intersection.
There being no questions from the audience on Traffic Mitigation fees, Mayor/Chairman Boro
called for a motion.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to approve the
Traffic Mitigation Fees budget in concept, in the amount of $20,842,732 for East San Rafael;
$4,121,214 for Northgate; and $386,141 for Downtown/Peacock Gap.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (Pages 121/133)
Ms. Nicolai explained there is very little action on this item, and it informational.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that staff has reviewed this with the Council in the past, and will
bring it back to us as we go forward. He noted that the Operating and Capital Improvement
budgets are linked together, as they should be. He thanked staff on behalf of the Council.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted there is a recommendation on page 121, and Mayor/Chairman
Boro replied it was not intended for that to be acted on tonight.
Mr. Bernardi explained that this will be reviewed at staff level and updated, and after any
necessary changes and/or new projects, such as the Albert Park tennis courts, and others which
were discussed tonight are added. When the list has been updated and revised, staff will
bring it to the Council for their information and concurrence. Ms. Nicolai suggested this
would be a good topic for a Council retreat, so some time could be spent on it.
Councilmember/Member Phillips stated staff has done a fine job of putting together the
projections which incorporate Capital Funding, which is an important element in prioritization
of the projects. He pointed out it should be taken in context, and also with input from the
Budget Oversight Committee.
Councilmember/Member Cohen added that he would like to suggest an additional category, in
addition to Urgent, Important and Enhancing. He noted we have $150 million in these lists,
$40 million of which is in two projects: $20 million for a new library, which is simply not
going to happen without a funding source; and $20 million for a flood control project. That
also seems unlikely to happen without some funding source coming through. He stated that
he wants to get to a real list of Capital Improvement projects, which actually reflects the
important needs. That cannot be done at a budget hearing, but should be done in the near
future. We should go to the public with the list. Mayor/Chairman Boro agreed, and stated
it is a priority issue, and also a reality issue, and should be discussed in the future.
Ms. Nicolai agreed, and explained the process and the reason for presenting the entire list
to the Council. She stated their thought was that a project should not drop off the list
simply because it is not fundable now, because funding sometimes comes from unexpected sources.
She noted that adjustments can be made, and perhaps new categories would help. There is
a great opportunity for a special focused meeting to discuss all aspects.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that a Councilmember had mentioned they would like to have the Budget
Oversight Committee become involved in this process. Ms. Nicolai responded they have seen
this list also, and Mayor/Chairman Boro stated they may have some thoughts on some of the
issues the Council has been discussing tonight. Councilmember/Member Phillips added the
discussions should include the five-year plan, which also involves possible funding sources,
and noted the BOC should be involved in that, for the Operating as well as the Capital
Improvements. Ms. Nicolai agreed. She pointed out that it is amazing how many projects are
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getting done in spite of the lack of outside funding. We are keeping track of the projects
that are funded so we will have the entire picture.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips seconded, to accept the
report and conceptually adopt the Capital Improvement Program in the amount of $149,008,500,
with the understanding that it will come back to the Council at a future meeting; and to thank
staff for their fine work.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
SPECIAL ACCOUNTS
NON -DEPARTMENTAL (Pages 101/102)
Mr. Coleman explained the Non -departmental Accounts Budget is about the same as the current
year. One difference is the Safety Training, which is new and was not included in last year's
budget. Also, Other Charges include $145,000 for the additional 20, which we had anticipated,
and after July 1st we would have to move that into the various accounts to take care of the
extra 20. The only other item which is new is the Elections for $38,247.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked about the $31,000 for Open Space Management, which had been discussed
with Fire Chief Marcucci last night, and asked if this is additional? Mr. Coleman explained
this is our last payment of three payments made to the County Open Space District for the
transfer of the open space lands in Terra Linda to the County.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked for an explanation of the headings of pages 101, 102 and
103, all under Non -departmental, but with differing sub -headings. Mr. Coleman explained that
for the most part the items on page 101 are ongoing expenditures. Page 102 is special
expenditures which are one-time expenditures for the most part.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked for an explanation of Other Charges in the amount of $220,000
on page 101 under Non -departmental. Mr. Coleman explained that $145,000 of that will be moved
out for the extra 20 salary increase, which will be triggered this year. That would leave
$75,000.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired about the "Reserve for Contingency Liability" under
Other Charges. Mr. Coleman explained that the Other Charges account is for any items which
are not specifically budgeted in any other account, and which come up during the fiscal year.
This is a reserve, or contingency account. Some are recurring expenditures such as the annual
League of California Cities dues, Association of Bay Area Governments dues, miscellaneous
contracts, and other expenditures which may come up during the year and are not identified
with specific accounts. Councilmember/Member Phillips stated he agrees with the specific
expenditures listed, but would like to know more about the contingencies. Mayor/Chairman
Boro noted that included $145,000 for salary increases. Mr. Coleman stated he could not tell
how much of the remaining $75, 000 would be for contingencies, at this point, because it changes
from year to year. Councilmember/Member Phillips noted that would be budgeting for
miscellaneous without identifying. He asked if we have done that elsewhere? Mr. Coleman
replied we have not, and that is why we have just this one Non -departmental account, which
takes care of any items which are not specifically earmarked for any particular department.
He does not have the exact breakdown of the known expenditures. Councilmember/Member Phillips
stated that it seems we are budgeting for unidentified expenditures. Mr. Coleman replied
a lot of them are known, but he does not have the specifics at this point.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated his understanding is that this budget is for charges which do not
quite fit anywhere, and they are called collectively "Non -departmental". He asked if Mr.
Coleman could provide the Council with a breakdown of the $75,000 balance. Ms. Nicolai stated
we could give a figure for everything listed under Other Charges except that one. Mr. Coleman
stated there are a lot of expenditures in that budget which are recurring, like the dues,
and what is left over out of the $75,000 is unknown at this time, since the dues fluctuate.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if staff can break down the $75,000 at some point and provide
the Council with the figures? He assumed that part of it will be for unknown contingency
liability. Councilmember/Member Phillips stated his problem is that he does not know how
much the unidentified amount is. Councilmember/Member Cohen stated that, rather than hold
up the budget, we should be able to get a list of the known amounts and see how much is the
lump sum we want to budget for contingencies, and it should be discussed at that time. If
we do not feel comfortable with the amount, if there is, for instance, $40,000 which is just
listed as a reserve for contingencies, we might want to question it and decide we do not want
to accept that. At that point it can be modified.
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 13
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Ms. Nicolai suggested that a motion be made to approve this, with a listing limited to other
charges which are identifiable. If we want to have a Contingency Liability account that could
be a later discussion. Councilmember/Member Cohen suggested that staff bring back a breakdown
of the $75,000, and once the Council understands what the proponents are of that amount, we
can make that decision. Mayor/Chairman Boro noted that the budget will be back before the
Council on July 17th, and the amounts can be identified at that time. It can then be left
in, or removed.
Councilmember/Member Heller referred to the $275,000 for Animal Control, and stated she
understands that staff is working on a new contract. She asked if that will be in the foreseeable
future, or perhaps impacted in next year's budget? Ms. Nicolai explained that right now this
number is accurate. All of our attempts to get the Marin Humane Society to
work with us to modify service levels and reduce the budget have basically come to a stop.
Instead of having a multi-year agreement with them, we have reduced it to a one-year agreement,
and are looking at getting some technical assistance to help us break away from the Humane
Society and start up our own animal control service; trying to do it cooperatively with them
so we can do it in a positive way. We want to make sure the transition will be smooth. Nothing
has yet been decided. Meanwhile, we are renewing the contract for one more year, to give
us the time to pursue the ability to do the animal control program independently.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips seconded, to grant
conceptual approval of the Non -departmental Budget in the amount of $1,158,047, subject to
a breakdown and acceptance of the $75,000 remaining under Other Charges.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
(Page 103)
Councilmember/Member Cohen noted there is $100,000 for ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)
in this budget, and stated the Council had already approved $100,000 for ADA work. He asked
if this meant it is $200,000, or is it $100,000?
Finance Director Coleman explained that the Capital Improvement Fund on Page 103 is a
re -budgeting of all projects which we have already approved but have either not expended or
completed as of this point. Staff is just asking for re -budgeting for these carry-over projects
which have not been spent this year. He noted there will be additional funds for ADA and
for the fire station on Del Ganado. During the month of June we will be spending certain
monies as of the end of the fiscal year, and what money is not going to be spent will be carried
over in the budget, and that is what you see here.
Mayor/Chairman Boro clarified his understanding of Mr. Coleman's statement, that it is being
recommended that we carry over $100, 000 in ADA, and then an additional $100, 000 for this coming
year, and Mr. Coleman stated that is correct.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini noted that on the Del Ganado Fire Station there is a $900,000
figure, and asked what it includes. Ms. Nicolai explained that does not include the architect's
fees. That is just the bid for the work, so in addition you have the engineering costs and
some furnishings when it is built, which were not part of the bid.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini commented on the amount for the Sidewalk Repair ($50,000)
compared to the amount of lawsuits we have going on. He asked if that number should be higher?
Ms. Nicolai replied staff always wants to raise that amount. It is one of those accounts
where a significant amount contributed to that account would be helpful. She noted that
Sidewalk Repair is on the Worthy But Unfunded list and is up to $250,000. Mayor/Chairman
Boro noted that this is an ongoing, growing issue. Councilmember/Member Zappetini stated
he would like to see the $50,000 at least doubled, if possible. He stated that depending
on our liability exposure, he felt that would be worthwhile. Mayor/Chairman agreed, and stated
he was going to suggest taking the $35,000 of Gas Tax money we were able to shift and put
it toward Sidewalk Repair. That would give us $85,000 for this coming year, and keep the
$195,000 at the same level. Councilmember/Member Zappetini agreed.
Councilmember/Member Phillips inquired why we did not spend the $100,000 which was budgeted
for the ADA last year? Ms. Golt explained that we did budget $100,000 for the budget year
which is just ending, and we developed a list in late February or early March of 1995 on what
projects we were going to do. The bottom line is simply that the projects have not been completed
yet, but staff does not want the Council to think that because they have not been done there
is no need to budget them. The need is very great. Ms. Golt briefed the Council on upcoming
projects and grant monies, such as the very large curb cuts project, and the advisability
of having such a project done as a whole. That project represents the great majority of the
funding which is listed. Ms. Golt noted that the amount is really inadequate
because we have roughly $10 million worth of ADA which we should be doing; $5 million of it
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 14
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is top priority, or Level 1 Priority, so even though $200,000 is a significant sum, it is
really inadequate in the larger picture. Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if the $200,000 would
be spent this year if it is approved, and Ms. Golt replied, "Absolutely." She has spoken
with the Senior Engineer this afternoon about this, and it is anticipated that this money
will be spent when we are about three-quarters of the way through, but every penny of it will
be spent this year. Ms. Nicolai added that, considering all aspects, it is better putting
the entire project into one bid and going for the larger amount. This is part of starting
the ADA process, which will work into subsequent years. Councilmember/Member Phillips asked
if it would be better to raise the amount for this year to $300,000? Ms. Golt replied that
she would not favor putting next year's amount into this year, and come up with $300,000,
because there will always be the ongoing pressure to have some good faith show of every year
trying to work toward removing the barriers which exist. If we did that, there would be an
enormous amount of pressure coming from our ADA Committee and others, to get another $100,000
for the other type projects.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated his understanding is, we know we have more than we can fund and
are trying to make a good faith effort. When you look at this year's Capital Improvement
budget, half of it is going to ADA. It is not that we cannot spend more, but that we have
other needs as well.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if any members of the audience wished to address the Council on
this budget. There being no one, he asked for a motion of conceptual approval, with the
modification of changing the Congestion Management budget down $35,000, and increasing Sidewalk
Repairs by $35,000.
Councilmember/Member Zappetini moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to adopt the
Capital Improvement Projects budget in concept, with the two modifications listed by
Mayor/chairman Boro, in the amount of $1,079,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT (Page 107)
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated his only question was, since the car of choice is no longer being
made for the Police Department, what will we see on the streets of San Rafael next year?
Police Chief Krolak replied they will be comparable to the Chevrolet Caprice.
Mr. Bernardi explained that some of these items have been rebudgeted since they were not replaced
last year. At some point in time we will need to replace them all. He noted there is a large
expenditure for the Street Sweeper, about $175,000. These come up under the regular rotation
of equipment replacement. We keep the pick-up trucks for ten years, or 100,000 miles, and
the Turf Mowers are also kept for about ten years. The street sweepers generally do not last
as long. We rebuilt the motor on the present one, and we are about to keep it for an extra
period of time without replacement. The Police Department criteria is 75,000 miles, which
is about 11 or 12 months of operation.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if the Fire Department truck is the one for which we are going out
for joint funding? Fire Chief Marcucci replied that is the one.
Councilmember/Member Cohen stated he assumed we monitor the status of this fund on an ongoing
basis, and Ms. Nicolai replied that we do, and since there will be an increase in the prices,
we will have to increase the amounts next year. The rental rates are also updated. The factors
are monitored very carefully.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if there was any input from the audience, and there was none.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to approve the
Equipment Replacement budget in the amount of $696,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PARKING FUND
(Pages 104/105)
Mr. Jake Ours, Assistant Executive Director, Redevelopment Agency, briefed the Council/Agency
on the improvements which have been made in the maintenance of the City's three parking
structures. The budget is basically the same, except that there is one more Traffic Enforcement
Officer. The only change we foresee in the next year is to look at the rate for the main
parking structure and see if it is time to raise them slightly. The rate is
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SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 16
presently $35 per month, and has been that amount for eight years. We are thinking of raising
it to $45, to help pay for some of the new security measures.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted an issue that has been discussed for a number of years is the foot
patrol. He still feels the need, and especially with more night activity in the downtown
area, including the future opening of the theater, he would like a review on the activities
of the patrol and the benefit of expanding it, and whether or not there is a need. He stated
he realizes that is not a Redevelopment Agency responsibility, but rather the Police
Department's, but he would like to have such a report. It should include advisability of
expanding it on weekends, especially Sundays. He asked Chief Krolak to furnish such a report.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked, in connection with the security patrol of the Third and
"A" Street garage, what are the current days and hours of their operation? Mr. Ours replied
it varies, but they operate from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM until about 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM. Those
seem to be the major times we are having most of the problems.
They also want to have someone there when people are getting off work, or using the structure
for parking when they come downtown for dinner. On Saturdays and Sundays they come in
periodically; there is not a full-time person during those days. They drive through about
four times a day, randomly. Councilmember/Member Cohen inquired about the advisability of
increasing the patrol, and Mr. Ours replied he has not had any complaints, but actually has
had only positive comments. If there was a need, he would be glad to look at it.
Councilmember/Member Cohen noted there had been discussion at the recent annual meeting of
the BID (Business Improvement District), regarding need for additional patrols, but he did
not know if it was a position of the Board, or an individual. Mr. Ours was asked to look
into the issue. He noted he had written to everyone who uses the lot, asking for an evaluation,
and had not received any feedback, but he will look into it.
Councilmember/Member Heller inquired if the two Foot Patrol Officers are included in the Police
Department's number of 97, or are these completely separate? Mr. Ours responded these are
funded by the Parking District.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if anyone in the audience wished to address the Council on the Parking
District budget, and there was no one.
Councilmember/Member Heller moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to conceptually
approve the Parking Fund budget in the amount of $597,690.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
(Pages 135/138)
Mr. Ours reported this budget was prepared with the existing funds in mind. It starts with
a description of what the Agency does, and under State law we must have a five-year plan,
so we refer to it as a Five -Year Plan. However, he noted further back in the budget that
there is only money for three years.
Mr. Ours noted this budget is slightly down from last year in Capital Improvements and other
items we are looking to give up for the future. He noted that on Page 138 there is a list
of all of the projects we plan to be doing during the next three years. He explained that
within the law, the Council/Agency could change it any time if they wanted to stop one project
and start another. This budget covers the money actually left in the bank.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated his only question is on the street lights, and asked if we had
picked the final design for them. Mr. Ours explained we went back to the 1940's design, which
was actually on the streets of San Rafael, and that is the recommendation we will bring forward
at the meeting tomorrow. It has not been chosen yet, but we will be making the recommendation
that we install one and give everyone an opportunity to see it.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if anyone in the audience had a question about the Redevelopment
Agency budget, and there was no one.
Councilmember/MemberZappetini moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to conceptually
approve the Redevelopment Agency budget in the amount of $3,625,000.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 16
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 17
OUTSIDE REQUESTS
Mayor/Chairman Boro referred to a memo from City Manager Nicolai dated June 27th. Ms. Nicolai
explained that each year for the past several years the City has received requests from some
outside agencies which in some way are related to the City. The agencies in this memo are
ones we have funded for several years. Staff thinks they comply with the City's Goals and
Objectives, and actually help us achieve those Goals and Objectives; most of them have been
funded in the past by the Redevelopment Agency. Staff recommends the Council/Agency approve
the requests which were received from the Business Improvement District, the Housing Authority
for the Rental Rebate Program and the Marin Mediation Services, which continue to be valuable
assets, and the Chamber of Commerce. All of those can be funded from Redevelopment funds
as legitimate components of the Goals and Objectives of Redevelopment, and continue to serve
our community well. Staff strongly recommends approval of the funding requests again this
year.
There were no questions or comments from the Council/Agency. Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if
there were comments or questions from the audience.
Elissa Giambastiani, Executive Director of the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, updated the
Council/Agency as to where the County is in relation to their progress on tourism. They have
formed a Convention and Visitors Bureau, and have formed a Commission with three committees.
They are planning to hire an Executive Director, after the Bureau has received $75,000 in
funding from the County. They will then begin marketing and trying to sell memberships to
the organization. That is how they hope to raise some additional funds for the first year.
They will be publishing a brochure on Marin County. The Chamber's intent is to contribute
jointly with the County on some promotions.
Ms. Giambastiani added she had been talking to Dominican College about some of their student
interns and graduate interns working on some of the projects, such as developing marketing
material for Downtown, among other economic development projects. This should be a good way
to get some of the projects accomplished, and use some of the college people as well.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated he recalled that some months ago, when the County was starting
their tourism project, there was a request made to the City for money. The position we took
at that time was that we do make a grant to the Chamber of Commerce, and if the Chamber was
willing to support it, that would be fine. He stated he assumed we would maintain that same
position; we would not be looking to give additional money, but would look to the Chamber
to work with the County and use those monies accordingly. Ms. Giambastiani stated she would
discuss that at the monthly Business Issues Committee meeting, and inform the City of their
vote.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to approve the
four requests: Business Improvement District, Housing Authority for Rental Rebate Program,
Marin Mediation Services and the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce. (To be funded through the
Redevelopment Agency.)
Ms. Nicolai clarified the motion: The Housing Authority Rebate Program and the Mediation
Services will come out of the Housing Element funding, and the BID and the Chamber of Commerce
will come out of the line on Page 138, called Operating Reserve and Contingencies, which was
put there anticipating the Council/Agency might approve that. Councilmember/
Member Cohen and Councilmember/Member Zappetini agreed.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
Ms. Nicolai added that at the bottom of the report there was a request from the Recreation
Department again to the Redevelopment Agency to complete the program which Recreation Director
McNamee spoke about earlier in her presentation. It is an excellent collaboration between
multiple agencies, and staff highly recommends it. It would mean that $4, 000 would be allocated
out of that same Contingency fund. Councilmember/Member Heller noted Ms. McNamee had reported
there is $3,410 for the After School Program, and asked if that was something staff would
be coming back with, as she would prefer to know that it was taken care of at this time.
Ms. McNamee stated $4,600 would be needed for this program during the summer, and $3,400 was
needed to continue this program during the school year.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips seconded, to approve the
request for a total of $8,010, with the appropriate amount ($4,000) to come from the
Redevelopment Agency.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 17
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 18
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked for discussion of the two items from the Budget Oversight Committee.
Ms. Nicolai explained they were basically for funding allocations tonight. Staff will come
back with a specific report for approval of the contract on Data Processing. She noted staff
has been working for the past year on components of the Data Processing Program, and have
interviewed the consultants. The request is for setting aside $50,000 in the budget. Staff
will be coming back, probably at the next meeting, with a contract with the consultant.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to approve
in concept the Data Processing study in the amount of $50,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
Ms. Nicolai reported that a more recent program which has come forward is from the Federation
of San Rafael Neighborhoods and the Budget Oversight Committee, and relates to the idea of
hiring a part-time Volunteer Coordinator to expand on what they are acknowledging is a very
successful volunteer effort, which we have going on in various departments throughout the
City. We have all discussed the fact that it could be better if we had a hired coordinator.
Again, given the turnaround in the economy, she feels comfortable in supporting the idea
of allocating $25,000;, and to reserve it tonight and to authorize any expenditures, because
we are trying to finalize the actual specific program and will come back with it.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, for conceptual
approval of $25,000 for the Volunteer Coordinator Program, subject to further specifics.
Councilmember/Member Heller inquired if there was a time line on this program, and Ms. Nicolai
replied it would probably be coming back in August with a more definitive program for Council
authorization.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked Ms. Nicolai if we should now discuss the Worthy But Unfunded items.
Ms. Nicolai suggested that for some of the items we should wait until the sales tax issue
is resolved, since the decisions the Council makes will be based largely on that. It will
have a driving influence on which other items might be fit into the list. However, she did
not want the Council to lose sight of the items on the list.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted there are two items the Council had asked to have brought back tonight,
noting we now have some good detail on both of them, and want to at least conceptually support
the Vegetation Management and the training for the Management Development. The rest of this
could be picked up as we go forward.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to conceptually
support the Management Development program, in the amount of $4,500.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Zappetini seconded, to conceptually
approve $40,000 for the Vegetation Management Program.
AYES: COUNC ILMEMBERS /MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
Councilmember/Member Cohen stated it was his understanding the Council/Agency had just approved
$75,000 from the Budget Oversight Committee recommendations; $35,000 for additional sidewalk
repair, $50,000 for the Library Book Fund, $4,500 for Management Development, and $40,000
for Vegetation Management. We have added $204,500 in expenditures to the budget as presented.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted the $35,000 was already in the budget, making the total approximately
$170,000.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if there was anything else regarding the budget which needed to
be discussed, and staff responded there was not. Mayor/Chairman Boro then asked staff to
explain if the Worthy But Unfunded list would come back as part of the item on July 17th.
Ms. Nicolai responded that would depend on the State accounting procedures, and may not be
until after the radio item comes forward, noting this issue was most of the "unknown" items
at this point in time. She would expect that on July 17th staff would return with the budget
motions as made tonight, with the one clarification requested, so the Council could approve
the budget on July 17th. Other decisions can be deferred until later. Mayor/Chairman Boro
agreed.
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 18
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 19
ADD ITEM: Emergency Item
STREET CLOSURES ON JULY 9 AND 23, 1995 AND APPROVAL OF POLICE OVERTIME FOR THE JULY 9, 1995
CONCERT: (Council Only Agenda Item) - File 11-19 x 9-3-30
Mayor Boro asked for a motion to add this item as an Emergency Agenda Item.
Ms. Nicolai explained she had just found out about this today.
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Zappetini seconded, to add the item to the agenda
as an Emergency Item.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Ms. Nicolai reported two community events have been planned to celebrate the exterior
rehabilitation of Falkirk, a Jazz Concert on Sunday, July 9th from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and
a Historic Lawn Party & Ice Cream Social on Sunday, July 23rd from Noon to 5:00 PM. Ms. Nicolai
stated these events are part of the fundraising component currently going on at Falkirk.
She noted they have been working with the Police Department and need approval to close Mission
Avenue, from "C" to "E" Streets for these events. Ms. Nicolai reported the other issue is
the overtime, stating the Police Department has recommended that four officers be present
for three hours during the July 9th Jazz Concert. It is being recommended that the City of
San Rafael co-sponsor this event by providing support for the expense of this security coverage,
and as these events are to thank the public for their contributions, she would agree with
the recommendation to support the overtime.
Councilmember Zappetini moved and Councilmember Heller seconded, to approve closing Mission
Avenue from "C" to "E" Streets on July 9th and 23rd, and approve the payment of overtime for
four Police Officers for three hours on July 9th.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips, Zappetini & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
Mayor Boro thanked Ms. Nicolai, Ms. Golt, Mr. Coleman and City Clerk Leoncini for their work
in arranging the budget hearings.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10:30 PM.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk/Agency Secretary
APPROVED THIS DAY OF 1996
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
CHAIRMAN OF THE SAN RAFAEL REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
SRRA/SRCC MNUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/27/95 Page 19