HomeMy WebLinkAboutSPJT Minutes 1996-06-20SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, THURSDAY, JUNE 20, 1996, 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
Absent: None
Others Present: Suzanne Golt, Assistant City Manager
Jake Ours, Interim Redevelopment Agency Executive Director
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk/Agency Secretary
BUDGET HEARINGS - 1996/97 BUDGET - File 8-5 x (SRRA) R-103
Mayor/Chairman Boro explained there was an Agenda for this meeting, which showed
the order in which the various budget items would be addressed, noting introductions
would be made by Assistant City Manager Suzanne Golt and Finance Director Ransom
Coleman, and then the department heads would make their presentations regarding
the various Agenda items. He stated the Council/Agency and the public would then
have the opportunity to ask questions and respond to the presentations, and noted
at each juncture, the Council/Agency would vote on the approval, in concept, of
the budget for each particular department, stating the entire budget would be ratified
at the conclusion of this process.
Acting City Manager Golt reported the 1996/97 Budget would be summarized by herself
and Finance Director Coleman, stating she would give an overview of the generalities
of the budget, as well as key points that factored into the preparation of the budget,
and Mr. Coleman would address specifics in terms of Revenue and Appropriations.
Ms. Golt stated the overriding budget goal was to develop a budget that would meet
the expectations of the community, provide the service levels we know to be the
expectations of the community, and at a minimum, maintain the level of service being
provided at this point in time. Ms. Golt stated there were no new positions or
programs included in the budget, although there were some changes and additions
which would be presented during the Budget Hearings. This budget had also been
developed to accommodate some big ticket items which were very costly, such as the
Police Radio System, estimated at a cost of $1.2 million, and that entire amount
had been reserved in this particular budget. The City would also have salary
increases for six of the seven employee bargaining units to be funded.
Ms. Golt reported that to balance this budget the City has had to draw upon Reserves
of approximately $525,000. In addition, the contribution to the Vehicle Replacement
Fund had been reduced by $300 , 000 , with an analysis to be done in the next few months.
She stated they would be able to bring those forward during next year's budget.
Ms. Golt noted that in the Budget Message she had presented information on long-range
goals and objectives, which had been developed at the City Council/Management
Retreat, and each Departmental Budget had a summary of achievements over the past
year, and established goals and objectives for the 1996/97 Budget. This gave the
City an ongoing way to keep track of what we are finishing, how much we are achieving,
if we are meeting our goals and objectives, and if the goals and objectives are
carrying over.
Ms. Golt stated the Budget Oversight Committee was beginning its third year, and
continued to work very closely with City staff regarding the budget year that was
closing. She noted a couple of things had occurred during this budget year that
were noteworthy, and could be attributed to the Budget Oversight Committee; first,
we had a very comprehensive Data Processing study, which brought forward a number
of recommendations, providing the City with the framework for a long-range plan
for the City's Data Processing services; additionally, the Volunteer Program got
underway in early 1996, and although this was a brand new program, it has enjoyed
a fair amount of success since it began, being directly involved in a Community
Clean-up Day, and now focusing on the target of developing volunteer positions to
work with various City programs.
Ms. Golt reported Redevelopment III was underway, with approximately $8.8 million
raised through the sale of bonds, noting Interim Redevelopment Agency Executive
Director Ours would be discussing the Redevelopment Plans later in the Budget Hearing.
She stated Capital Improvement, as proposed in this year's budget, was pretty
limited, as it had been in previous years, noting we have a little over $270,000
worth of Capital Improvements that have been projected for the budget.
Ms. Golt pointed out that immediately following the Budget Message there was a "Worthy
But Unfunded" list, noting this was only a partial list, and it was actually quite
large in terms of Capital Improvement projects which are not funded at this time.
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Grants and Alternative Funding remained an integral part of the budget, noting
we had a little over $570,000 in grants we have received, and these were detailed
on Page 123.
Ms. Golt stated the City would be active in seeking alternative funding. The revenue
picture was looking pretty good, and we have had some good news from Finance Director
Coleman, who reported the Sales Tax revenue was considerably higher than had been
anticipated.
Mayor/Chairman Boro thanked Ms. Golt for the budget, acknowledging she had put it
together from scratch. He stated her Budget Message was quite good and very clear,
and they all appreciated the personal effort she put into the Goals and Objectives,
and the fact that the City was actually following through on them.
Finance Director Ransom Coleman presented an overview of the Revenue portion of
the budget. Referring to Property Tax, he stated the estimate for this year would
be very close to the revised estimate on the budget page. He reported Property
Tax had not had the turnaround we had expected, noting there was very little growth
in that particular area. He reported the Property Transfer Tax has been lagging
this year, and would probably not meet the revised estimates shown in the budget,
noting Property Tax would probably increase approximately 2.5%. He noted one big
question mark would be the ERAF Surplus Money, which had been budgeted at the same
level as last year; however, the continuation of that would depend on legislation,
and he was hopeful this would come about.
Mr. Coleman stated Sales Tax was up quite a bit, increasing 11.9% for the first
quarter of 1996 compared to 1995. He noted this was after the State of California
deducted $63,000 from the City for overpayments in 1995, and pointed out that if
this amount was added back into the total, the increase would be approximately 14.5%
for the first quarter. Mr. Coleman stated he did not currently have the detail
on this, having talked with the people at Northgate, and with our consultants at
MRC, and they had no information they could provide at this point as to why the
figure was up so high. He stated we should expect at least $300,000 more than was
currently projected, assuming there was not something very unusual in the last payment
we received.
Referring to other revenues, Mr. Coleman reported Franchise Tax was fairly stable,
noting it consisted mainly of P. G. & E. and Viacom Cable, and there would not be
much growth in that. He stated the Hotel Tax had a slight dip this year, apparently
because the Holiday Inn sold and was remodeled, noting it was hoped the Wyndham
would pick up, and get back to a little higher level. He stated that if we adjusted
for the Holiday Inn, the $1,240,000 was an attainable goal. Mr. Coleman reported
the Business License Tax was tied to Gross Receipts, and had generally been reflecting
the CPI for the past couple of years.
Mr. Coleman stated the most disappointing item in the Tax section was the Property
Transfer Tax, reporting a year ago we received $603,000, and the revised estimate
for this year was $560,000, noting it appeared the final figures would actually
be even less than that.
Mr. Coleman reported Building Permits should end up at approximately $700,000, which
is considerably higher than for the past couple of years.
Mr. Coleman reported Parking Fines were at the same level.
Mr. Coleman stated there were two items he wished to comment on regarding Revenue
From Other Agencies; the first was Motor Vehicle In -Lieu, explaining these figures
come to us from the State of California, based on the registration fees, and are
distributed based on population. He stated that lately this revenue source had
grown much higher than the CPI. Referring to Miscellaneous Other Revenue From Other
Agencies, he explained these were charges to the Redevelopment Agency for City
expenditures, and he expected a slight increase in that particular revenue this
year, because the Public Works Department had indicated more of their staff time
in the Engineering section would be charged to the Redevelopment Agency.
Mr. Coleman noted the only item he wished to comment on in the Charges for Services
section concerned Third Party Billing. This fee was initiated last year, and it
was running slightly below the revised estimate for 1995/96; however, he stated
they would stay with the $580,000 projection for next year. He explained the $220,000
listed for Other Revenue was a "catch all", and usually involved unpredictable,
non-recurring types of revenue.
Councilmember/Member Heller stated she did not remember how much ERAF funds were,
and noted she seriously questioned whether we should even anticipate having any
money coming in from this. Mr. Coleman stated approximately $170,000 was currently
budgeted for this, which was the same amount we were expecting this year, stating
he expected to receive the check in a week or so. Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if
the check was for the coming year, and Mr. Coleman stated that was correct. He
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noted last year Assemblymember Mazzoni carried the day with legislation that resulted
in a compromise, and we got half the amount, and it was hoped that between several
pieces of legislation in Sacramento, we would be in the same position and see some
money.
Councilmember/Member Phillips complimented Ms. Golt and Mr. Coleman for their
efforts, which he stated were substantial. Mr. Phillips noted earlier in the year
they had discussed accruing Sales Tax, and asked if the timing was the same with
regard to the historical information, and if it was on an accrual basis. Finance
Director Coleman stated they took a twelve month period of time and backed -out the
thirteenth month, so we were comparing twelve month periods of time. He noted the
Sales Tax figure he would be getting next week would also tell what the advance
would be for July; therefore, next week they would know exactly what the figure
would be for 1995/96. Mr. Phillips asked if he was content this method, including
the receipts in July, was still a valid method, or if it should be refined to extend
it further. and to reflect more closely to the actual? Mr. Coleman stated there
was no 100% accepted practice in this area, noting many of the cities do what we
did last year, which was to basically accrue the month of July and increase the
fund balance by that one month accrual. He noted there were some
agencies, particularly in Southern California, that went further than this and had
accrued two months. Mr. Coleman stated he was not aware of any agencies that would
have gone so far as to have accrued the third month, a figure we would not know
until mid-September. He noted our own auditors felt comfortable with what we were
currently doing, and their main concern was that we be consistent with whatever
guidelines we come up with.
Counci lmember /Member Phillips asked when we know during the month of June that the
situations have changed, such as Sales Tax assumptions and Compensation, and we
know those "moving targets" have solidified somewhat, at what point in time do we
still make changes to the budget to reflect the information we have at hand? Mr.
Coleman stated the expenditures were mostly finalized by the first part of May,
noting that was when they take the document, run it by the department heads, and
telling them this is what is being recommended, and then the next couple of weeks
are spent drafting the budget, getting it printed, and presenting it to the Council
approximately the first week in June. He noted the Revenue estimates could be changed
at this point, although most of the estimates were usually based on the first quarter
figures.
Councilmember/Member Phillips stated he was concerned about two areas; the first
was Sales Tax, noting Mr. Coleman had stated earlier he thought it would probably
be $300,000 greater than the amount reflected in the budget to be approved; and
second, regarding Compensation, Mr. Phillips noted we had held some negotiations,
and knew reasonably well what the additional Compensation level was going to be,
and he felt we should be able to guess what additional Compensation
expense we were going to incur in this budget period; therefore, Mr. Phillips felt
it would be appropriate to include those two significant items. Mr. Coleman stated
there would have been no way to include what they had found out only yesterday in
the Sales Tax estimates.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted Mr. Coleman would not have the final determination for
another four weeks, so based on how the State of California does things, we did
not know for sure if that extra money was true or not. Mayor Boro stated they had
found out last night that we had an extra $300,000, and this was now in Suspense,
and although we could not incorporate that into this document, at some time between
now and when the budget is adopted, they could specify what they would like to do
with it.
Mr. Phillips stated he was concerned about the approval process, asking if this
was going to be included in the ultimate budget which would be approved in a couple
of weeks? Mr. Coleman stated the action the Council would take over the next week
would be to approve the Expenditures and Appropriations, noting the Resolution did
not address Revenues; however, when the final budget was put together after the
Council had adopted the Appropriation portion of it, the figures would likely be
revised to reflect the actual figures for 1995/96 and, as appropriate, revise some
of the 1996/97 estimates. Mr. Phillips asked if the final document to come before
Council would include additional Sales Tax Revenues, and Mr. Coleman stated that
was correct, noting that when the final adopted budget was printed this Fall, it
would reflect all actions taken by the Council, and any other events that would
have an impact on the Revenue.
Referring to Salary, Mr. Phillips asked if the Compensation adjustments now being
negotiated for this budget period were reflected in these Expenditure figures?
Mr. Coleman stated they were not, noting the only place this was alluded to was
in the Budget Message, where it was indicated that in anticipation of salary
increases, we would expect the Reserves to be down to approximately $10.6 million,
which assumed approximately $1.2 million would be added to the budget as proposed,
and $1.2 million would be a reduction in the General Fund estimates shown in the
budget.
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Mayor Boro asked for reports on the Department Budgets.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT:
CITY COUNCIL (Page 17)
Assistant City Manager Suzanne Golt stated the City Council budget was a completely
status quo budget, noting there was only one small change, with additional funds
allocated to Travel and Conference, to more accurately reflect the use of that
particular fund. She stated there was nothing projected in this budget which varied
from what the budget had been over the years.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to
conceptually approve the City Council Budget in the amount of $61,155.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
CITY CLERK (Page 18)
City Clerk Jeanne Leoncini stated this budget was status quo. She reported her
office had the same three employees, noting there have been three employees in this
office since 1977, with additional duties added along the way. She reported the
office had conducted a very smooth running City election in November, 1995 for Mayor,
two Councilmembers, City Attorney, City Clerk and three School Board members, that
staff has processed an increased number of public liability claims, and have been
kept busy with filling vacancies on Boards and Commissions. She also pointed out
the FPPC forms had become far more complex, and noted this was a very busy office.
Mrs. Leoncini stated that in the coming year a major goal and objective would be
to change the Municipal Code to an 8-1/2" x 11" loose leaf binder, which would make
it much easier to read and change pages, and the new format would also include a
legal code review, which had not been done in prior years.
Mayor/Chairman Boro, on behalf of the Council/Agency, complimented Mrs. Leoncini
and her staff on the excellent job they perform.
Councilmember/Member Cohen stated there had been discussion regarding advances in
information technology which the City would like to take advantage of, and he felt
some of that would likely impact the City Clerk's office. He noted, for example,
one of the Goals and Objectives of the City Clerk's office was the implementation
and indexing of minutes on computer, and stated he looked forward to the day when
agendas and minutes were posted electronically, and available for members of the
community to call up and obtain copies and, eventually, staff reports as well.
Ms. Golt stated the groundwork for having the staff reports available was being
laid with the MIDAS system, noting that would be the first step in allowing us to
do this. She noted the goal was to get the information out with as much ease as
possible.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to
conceptually approve the City Clerk's Budget in the amount of $191,474.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
CITY MANAGER
(Page 20)
Assistant City Manager Golt stated the City Manager's budget had essentially no
major changes, noting the staffing level remained the same as it had been for some
years. She stated there were small changes in some of the accounts, noting they
would need to do some minor adjustments in the Salary section to accommodate the
new City Manager and the auto allowance. She stated the Management Development
Fund had been increased slightly to accommodate the commitment to on-going retreats
between the City Council and the Management Team. They had also included such things
as a cellular phone for the City Manager, ergonomic chairs for some of the employees,
and a PC for the City Manager, noting those were basically the only changes to the
budget.
Reviewing some of the key achievements in the City Manager's office, Ms. Golt reported
staff had continued work on the Americans With Disabilities (ADA) Program barrier
removal, reporting the curb cuts currently being installed downtown were the result
of two years worth of funding, noting this had been a major thrust of the ADA Program.
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Ms. Golt stated there had been an excellent Council/Management Team Strategic
Planning Retreat in January, which enabled them to develop the Goals and Objectives
listed in this budget, and an outstanding pre -negotiations meeting attended by
representatives of all the different bargaining units, the full Council, and the
full Management Team, which got everyone off to a very good start in the negotiation
process which is currently underway.
Ms. Golt reported the City Manager's office had participated in a number of
County -wide committees, task forces, and JPA's, which had been very advantageous
for the City. She reported this office had made major initial steps in developing
an Economic Development Vision for the City of San Rafael, and was currently studying
the County -wide Assessment and the Joint Powers Agreements, noting the City was
in more than twenty JPA's.
Ms. Golt referred to the Goals and Objectives for the 1996/97 Budget Year, stating
at the top of the list was the completion of the negotiations which were currently
underway, and noting she felt this would be happening with the majority of the groups
in the very near future. Ms. Golt reported staff was going to develop and implement
a Management Performance Appraisal Plan in the coming year, and also noted it was
very important to follow through on the goal to develop and implement a Customer
Service oriented program, and this was something they would be focusing on very
early in the budget year.
Ms. Golt stated the Police Radio System remained an on-going project, noting the
City was part of the County -wide radio system at this point, and staff was looking
into the pros and cons of a County -wide RFP process. Work on the Police Radio System
project would continue into the next year, as would the ADA barrier removal work.
She stated another project related to the ADA, within the next couple of months,
was the joint project between the City of San Rafael and the Marin Center for
Independent Living, which was going to be developed to provide training on
access -related matters, not just for San Rafael, but all the cities and towns in
Marin County, and was being funded by the Marin Community Foundation.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted there had been discussion of further expansion
of the on-going City Council retreat, and they had talked about Council establishing
its own set of Goals and Priorities. He stated that while many of them might be
similar reflections of those previously established, he felt Council needed to set
their own goals rather soon. In addition, regarding discussions with the various
employee groups, he noted they had talked about encouraging cost savings programs,
whereby the employees would participate in developing ideas and bringing them
forward, and he hoped another Goal and Objective would be to develop that
program, so there was some substance behind the thought. He stated he hoped Ms.
Golt would consider those two as additions to the City Manager's Office Goals and
Objectives. Ms. Golt stated she had already had discussions with City Manager Gould
regarding the first issue, in terms of a Council/Management retreat, noting this
would be something they would be following up on in the very near future. Regarding
the cost savings, she reported this had been put on the table with all of the groups,
and she had not had any feedback. She stated she would be following up on this,
because she believed the employees were the ones who could come up with some excellent
ideas, as they were the ones actually doing the jobs, and could likely see ways
to shave the costs.
Councilmember/Member Cohen expressed his appreciation and admiration for the job
Ms. Golt had done, pointing out that anyone reading the Department's Budget, and
particularly the list of achievements, would have no way of knowing our City Manager
had left early in the fiscal year, and Ms. Golt had stepped in, and with a short
staff, kept the City running.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to
conceptually approve the City Manager's budget in the amount of $392,807.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Chairman/Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PERSONNEL (Page 24)
Mayor Boro thanked Personnel Director Daryl Chandler for a productive year,
particularly all the work he had done for the Council toward the recruitment of
a new City Manager, stating he had aided greatly in that process.
Personnel Director Daryl Chandler stated the Personnel Department functioned in
a support role to the various City Departments, and in that role they were responsible
for recruitment, selection, classification, compensation, benefit administration,
employee relations, Affirmative Action, and the Personnel Information Systems.
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Updating the Goals and Objectives listed in last year's budget, Mr. Chandler reported
they had accomplished a complete file and record purging, noting some of the records
had been in the office for ten to fifteen years. He stated they completed the Meet
and Confer Process and implementation of the new revised Personnel Rules and
Regulations, and developed Policy and Procedures for implementation of the Department
of Transportation Drug and Alcohol Regulations for drug testing. Mr. Chandler
reported the Personnel Department continued to work on ADA updates to the job
specifications, noting this was more than a one-year project, as the City has more
than 120 different job classifications. He stated he continued to review the health
and dental insurance programs and, hopefully, would come up with some savings in
those areas.
Mr. Chandler noted other achievements this year included the upgrading of the Employee
Service Award Program, in terms of the types of awards the employees can receive;
revision of the City's employment application so it conforms to ADA regulations;
conducting 24 job recruitments and receiving over 1,200 applications; completing
15 individual position classification studies and 5 total compensation surveys for
various employee groups; coordinating employee training programs offered by the
Sonoma/Marin Training Consortium, as well as nine different workshops regarding
our Employee Assistance Program; and supervising the implementation of the Volunteer
Program this past year.
Regarding next year's objectives, Mr. Chandler noted, the Personnel Department will
try to take some of the credit for the completion of the negotiation process on
the new contracts for all employee groups, noting there had been a welcome change
in that process, and much of the credit should go to the Council for starting the
process a little differently this year. Mr. Chandler stated he hoped to develop
a Personnel Department/Employee Newsletter, which would discuss such issues as
changes in benefits, new programs, and supervisory training issues. Mr. Chandler
stated he hoped to expand the EAP training programs, noting we currently do four
per year, and he would also like to establish brown bag lunch training sessions,
where employees could come and learn about different subjects, ranging from issues
the EAP might talk about, to elder care, or other topics such as financial planning.
He felt we had an opportunity to find volunteers within the community who would
participate at no cost to the City. Mr. Chandler reported he would also continue
with the job specification revisions under the ADA.
Mr. Chandler noted that in stating all those things that had been accomplished,
and the things they hoped to do next year, he believed it was important to point
out he felt very fortunate to have the two employees he has working with him in
the Department, noting he would not have been able to accomplish the things he had
without their support and dedication.
Mr. Chandler stated there were no significant changes in this year's budget, although
it was up $6,000.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked which category of the budget the Volunteer Coordinator's
salary was in? Assistant City Manager Golt reported that salary was listed in the
Non -Departmental budget section.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to
conceptually approve the Personnel Department budget in the amount of $212,564.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBER/MEMBER: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBER/MEMBER: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBER/MEMBER: None
CENTRAL SERVICES
(Page 26)
Assistant City Manager Golt reported the core functions of the Central Services
Department included such things as the mail, print shop, and graphics. She noted
Central Services was a small staff of two people, with one part-time mail clerk
who delivers the afternoon mail. Ms. Golt stated there were no particular changes
in this budget, noting an additional $25,000 was budgeted to accommodate an
approximate 3% cost of living increase in our contract with BRC, the Data Processing
provider, and to accommodate E-mail and start on a network for the City, should
we opt to do this. Ms. Golt reported the print shop impressions were quite
astounding, at about 3 million per year, noting they process approximately 138,000
pieces of mail each year, with a minimum of 25 bulk mailings. She stated this
department's key achievement was in meeting the printing needs, which are quite
varied, noting it was hard to know what to expect.
Ms. Golt reported one of the print shop employees had developed excellent skills
in computer aided graphic work. She noted the City had a new logo which was being
incorporated onto the various forms we use, and new business cards had been designed.
Ms. Golt reported the Stores operation was phased out, and the room that had been
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used for this particular function was being turned into a small office and mailroom.
Regarding Goals and Objectives, Ms. Golt stated this department wanted to continue
to meet the printing needs, and continue to enhance the computer graphics, perhaps
having the other printer become involved with computer graphics, as well. Ms. Golt
reported they continue to explore ways to develop higher levels of service, and
save money at the same time, noting in previous years they have looked into recycled
paper versus non -recycled, and printing on both sides of the paper. She stated
there were not a lot of options for this particular operation, but they were alert
to whatever might come their way.
Ms. Golt reported this particular operation had been the subject of some discussion
within the BOC (Budget Oversight Committee) in terms of perhaps being an operation
to out -source, and over the coming year this would be something the City will take
a closer look at. She noted the City took a "surface look" at this issue three
years ago, and at that time it was determined it would be more cost effective to
retain the in-house operation, and from a staff level, the convenience was very
highly thought of.
Councilmember/Member Heller noted in the "Worthy But Unfunded" category there was
a listing of $21,000 for a printing press replacement this year, and asked if that
was something that was going to be essential at this time? Ms. Golt stated she
and the printer viewed it as essential, noting the main printing press would be
inadequate if staff were to develop a City newsletter, which was something they
wanted to do. Ms. Golt stated the existing printing press would not stand up to
the volume of work and, in some cases, might prove to be troublesome. Ms. Golt
noted part of the analysis would be to determine whether a newsletter would be done
in-house or sent out for printing.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked if we were to revisit BOC's recommendations
concerning our computer system, would that be in this budget? Ms. Golt stated that
was correct, noting she had been talking with City Manager Rod Gould about where
we were going. Mr. Cohen stated that if we were going to look at out -sourcing some
of the things we currently do in this department, then now would not be the time
to make any Capital outlay for a printing press. He noted we may find, after review,
that it would be more effective to do this in-house, and then we should have the
equipment we need to do that in an effective manner; however, we should take a look
at this before we buy a new printing press.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked if the Recreation Department printed their
Community Newsletters in-house? Ms. Golt stated they were printed outside, and
pointed out there were also several other newsletters, some of which were printed
in-house, and some sent outside.
Mayor/Chairman Boro suggested that when Ms. Golt reviews the evaluation of this
department, particularly when looking at the newsletters, she might want to look
at everything the other departments are doing, and see if it makes sense to bring
it all together through this department, or send it all out.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to
conceptually approve the Central Services budget in the amount of $859,740.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
FINANCE (Page 28)
Finance Director Ransom Coleman stated the Finance budget was pretty much status
quo, although the budget for 1996/97 did reflect a lot of changes that occurred
during this fiscal year, mainly the new position of Administrative Assistant, with
primary responsibility for purchasing, and noting that position was created from
two part-time positions previously charged to the Finance Department. He reported
the department also had two new employees hired during this fiscal year, and noted
some minor changes in duty, and the step increases associated with those new
employees, were all reflected in the Salary and Benefits section.
Mr. Coleman reported this department started off the year with new Redevelopment
Financing, which gave the Agency and the City $8.8 million, noting this had been
quite a protracted negotiation with all of the people involved, including the County
and the School District. He stated they had initiated a credit card program, noting
they were in the third or fourth billing cycle, and the program seemed to be working
quite well. He reported they had prepared an RFP for audit services, which was
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page
presented to the Council several months ago, and they were now in the process of
reviewing the RFP for banking services, and expected to come before Council with
a report in July. Mr. Coleman stated the Finance Department had also acted as a
liaison to the Budget Oversight Committee, noting they have spent quite a bit of
time this year working on the Volunteer Coordinator position and the computer study,
and were now getting involved in the Long Range Financial Plan. Mr. Coleman reported
they have also been working on the new JPA for the Solid Waste Management Agency,
noting Council had recently taken action on this, and he hoped this item would be
something they would not have to deal with as often as they had during the past
year.
Mr. Coleman reported they had revised some of the procedures in the Finance Department
during the past year to automate the Accounts Receivable function, and also to change
some procedures in the Parking Citation areas, which would help in sending out notices
and collecting money sooner than we have in the past. He noted this would also
allow the Police Department to go after multi -ticket violators.
Mr. Coleman stated that in the coming year they will be spending time looking at
the entire budget process, looking at the possibility of a two-year budget, and
spending a lot of time on the format. He stated he also expected, after the banking
RFP' s were analyzed, that they would probably be doing more PC based interface with
the banks, noting we already had a lot of computer interfacing with direct deposit.
He reported the payroll taxes are done electronically, but some of the other banking
functions still are not. Mr. Coleman stated if the City did go with a different
bank, it would be a major transition for us, and would probably occur in September
or October.
Mr. Coleman stated his department was looking at more decentralization of data entry,
noting the Police Department currently does their own data entry for payroll, with
the information then reviewed by the Finance Department and authorized for printing.
He stated it was hoped that at least one more department, possibly the Fire
Department, would be added to this list during the upcoming fiscal year. He reported
they were also currently working on methods of decentralizing the Accounts Payable
function, and working with BRC to develop procedures so this could be computerized,
noting there were steps that could be saved in this process. Mr. Coleman noted
they would also like to develop more computerization in the actual preparation of
the budget, as there were currently quite a few different approaches, and different
forms that each department had developed, and he would like to standardize that
preparation for the next budget year.
Mr. Coleman stated staff would like to do more work on the five-year Financial Plan,
noting a 40 page draft had been sent to the City Manager and to the BOC as a discussion
item, and he would be sending a copy to Council as an information item.
Mr. Coleman noted the normal, daily work of the Finance Department included Business
Licenses, Parking Citations, Revenue Receipts, Claim Checks, and Payroll Checks,
stating he felt the department did a good job of getting everything out on time.
Councilmember/Member Phillips asked about the Investment Policy. Mr. Coleman noted
in earlier discussions Mr. Phillips had wanted to revisit that portion of the
Investment Policy which addressed what percentage of the portfolio should be
invested, and for what period of time. Mr. Coleman stated the Investment Policy,
as it was currently written, indicated 40% of the portfolio would mature in one
year or less. Mr. Coleman reported that after the initial discussions about the
Investment Policy, he called six medium-size cities to find out what their policies
were, and noted three of the cities, Santa Rosa, San Mateo, and Walnut Creek, had
policies which did restrict the investments, but the restrictions were not uniform;
Santa Rosa had 50% for one year, Walnut Creek had 25% for six months, and San Mateo
had 40% for two years. Mr. Coleman reported the cities of Alameda, Fremont, and
Concord had no restrictions in their policies. Mr. Coleman stated as far as he
was concerned, as a staff person, it would clearly be easier for him if the City
did not have any restriction in the Investment Policy. However, he did feel there
should be some restriction just for guidance in the future, because most of the
problems that have occurred in the losses over the last several years in other cities
had not been due to safety, but had been caused by liquidity problems.
Mr. Coleman stated he would feel comfortable with a figure of less than 40%, but
felt there should be some general guidance which states at least 30% of the portfolio
should be one year or less, so we have the money when we need it. He noted the
trick was to make sure that when there was a claim, a big check, or a payroll coming
due, that we have the money on those specific dates, and the more money invested
for a shorter period of time, the more likely we will have the money available,
and not have to liquidate something to make the cash available.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted Mr. Coleman's report indicated revised
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procedures had resulted in an increased collection of parking fees, yet the work
load statistics seemed to show the parking citations processed were fewer this year.
Mr. Coleman reported the work load statistics showed only how many citations were
processed, not how many were paid. He stated they had been able to get payments
in faster, and to go after some of the ones that had been delinquent; therefore,
while the volume of citations did not reflect this, the revenue this fiscal year,
as compared to last fiscal year, reflected a higher revenue in that particular
category.
Referring to an earlier question regarding Fringe Benefits, Mr. Coleman explained
there were several items which made up this category; new employees coming in have
a whole different set of fringe benefits, a single person would have a much lower
cost than a married person, or an employee may change health insurance carriers.
He noted the Fringe Benefits category also reflected Worker's Compensation claims,
which could fluctuate greatly from year to year.
Councilmember/Member Heller stated she had worked with Mr. Coleman and Acting City
Manger Golt on the County -wide JPA, noting Mr. Coleman had done a very fine job,
and the City owed him a great deal of thanks.
Councilmember/Member Cohen recalled that in the past they had discussed the issue
of business licenses for sub -contractors on construction projects, noting he had
been told by contractors who pay business licenses in the City of San Rafael that
when they pick-up a contract in another community, they must also obtain a business
license in that community. He stated it had been suggested we should have the same
kind of arrangement of charging for a temporary business license when a contractor
or sub -contractor comes into San Rafael to do work. He asked if there had been
any follow-up in this area? Mr. Coleman reported this had been discussed with the
Building Department, and every time someone comes down to the Finance Department
to pay their permit fees, they are asked if they have a business license. He noted
the Building Department had been very cooperative in getting information regarding
the sub -contractors for the Finance Department. He reported we had a high percentage
who do pay for their licenses, noting they have the option of paying either on a
quarterly or annual basis.
Councilmember/Member Heller moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips seconded, to
conceptually approve the Finance Department budget, in the amount of $553,280.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
40)0ro110M1119) 0;05
Mayor/Chairman Boro reported he and Councilmember/Member Heller had met with
representatives from Union Street, noting they had concerns regarding the issue
of funding for an item which had been classified as Worthy But Unfunded.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked Mr. Bernardi to describe the situation.
Mr. Bernardi stated the basic problem was that for approximately the first 400 feet
of Union Street there was no formal drainage system. He reported there was a drainage
ditch on the western side of the street, and some curb and gutter on the eastern
side of the street, extending approximately 300 feet up toward Belle Avenue. Mr.
Bernardi stated some new construction was occurring, and would require construction
of frontage improvements along its frontage, which would mean another 50 feet of
curb and gutter, but the remainder of the street would not have any curb and gutter
improvements or sidewalks.
Mr. Bernardi stated during the past couple of years the drainage pipes on the western
side of the street have become clogged, and water ran across the street and down
into the property at 106 Union Street. Mr. Bernardi acknowledged the property did
flood, but reported the mitigations required with the new construction taking place
would address this particular issue in terms of water flowing across the street.
Mr. Bernardi stated the neighbors, led by Sally Kibbee, were requesting Council
fund the installation of a storm drain line on Union Street, which would essentially
solve this problem; however, staff was recommending that there were other ways to
solve the problem at this time. He stated the requirements which were imposed upon
the private development should solve all of the problems on the street. Mr. Bernardi
acknowledged this did not lessen the need for the storm drain facility to be installed
at some time in the future; however, staff recommended we see if this would work,
as it would buy us some time.
Mr. Bernardi pointed out that at the back of the Budget was a list of unfunded needs
for Capital Improvements, and noted it was a question of prioritization. Mr.
Bernardi stated he had reviewed the bid amounts which had been submitted by Ghilotti
Construction, the low bidders on
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 10
the Andersen Drive project, and using the bid quantities directly from that project
for the different sizes of pipe, catch basins, and manhole covers, the cost based
on a bid project was a little more than $68,000; therefore, the $80,000 Mr. Bernardi
had originally listed for this project would be a conservative estimate.
Larry Ersland, 196 Union Street, stated that during the three years he had lived
at this location there had been massive floods in his backyard, and along the street
in front of his property water had overflowed onto the street, into his yard, and
onto the construction which Mr. Bernardi referred to. Mr. Ersland reported that
during the winter the flooding became so bad the City brought in sandbags and installed
temporary reflectors. He stated water was flooding across the street so they
decided, as a group of property owners within the neighborhood, to meet and discuss
this issue. Mr. Ersland stated he found this was not a recent problem, but had
been going on for years, noting his neighbor, Don De Fina, had been battling the
City for the past eight or nine years in an attempt to have something done about
this problem.
Mr. Ersland reported a petition had been sent to the City Council, signed by a group
of property owners, asking the City to assume responsibility for controlling the
runoff of public water onto private property, and asking that a line item be included
in the 1996-97 City Budget to finance a permanent solution for a functional drainage
system on Union Street, not another "band-aid" solution, or a solution which may
or may not work.
Mr. Ersland thanked Councilmember Heller for taking an interest in their problem,
noting she had attended one of the Neighborhood Association meetings, and their
meeting with Mayor Boro. Mr. Ersland stated it had been their understanding this
project was going to cost $150,000, and at one point they were under the impression
the City had actually found $80,000 in a Reserve Liability account, so they attended
a meeting with Mayor Boro and Councilmember Heller hoping for the best, but were
told by Mayor Boro the City did not have the money to fund this project.
Mr. Ersland asked the City Council to consider that the City should at least take
a minimum step, noting a culvert along the street would be the absolute minimum.
He stated the project also needed curb and gutter, not for cosmetic reasons, but
to control the water coming down the street on City property, and onto the low lying
land at the bottom of Union Street. Mr. Ersland asked that an amendment be added
to the City Budget to address this problem.
Don De Fina, 123 Union Street, stated he and his wife had owned their house for
the past thirteen years, and had begun writing to the Public Works Department
approximately six years ago. Mr. De Fina stated it was his observation that Union
Street was a major thoroughfare, noting that with all of the water carrying gravel
and debris across the street, it created traffic hazards for the vehicles, as well
as the pedestrians. Mr. De Fina stated there was no drainage to gather this water
from the top of Union Street as it comes down, and it was an important consideration
that there be a permanent underground drain which would carry this water away and
take it off the surface of the street.
Mr. De Fina reported he wrote to Mr. Bernardi, stating he felt that for the money
spent on maintenance year after year, with work crews coming one right after the
other, the City could install the pipe and gravel after the ditch had been dug out,
and then close up the ditch. He stated the City would likely save a lot of money,
and the water would not be flowing into everyone's property, creating a hazard.
Bill Brannan stated he and his wife reside at the corner of Mission Avenue and Union
Street, and noted there was another element in the problem of water runoff on Union
Street which he felt should be addressed by the Council, and that was an open culvert
at the northwest corner of Mission Avenue and Union Street. Mr. Brannan stated
there was a two -fold problem with this open viaduct; first, diagonally across the
street, on the southeast corner, was the Head Start School for pre-schoolers; and
second, on the northwest corner where the culvert was located, the school bus
discharged the children who attend the Head Start School, anywhere from twenty-five
to forty feet from the open culvert. He reported some of the children throw rocks
into the water as it reaches the open culvert, and along with the school seventy-five
feet away, and the students being discharged from the bus, all of this was an accident
just waiting to happen. Mr. Brannan stated this needed to be solved by a pipe,
at least from Belle Avenue on the west side of Union Street, down to the culvert.
Don Shepherd, resident of San Rafael, stated no one had addressed the issue of how
deep or how wide the water was. He reported his home was the last house on the
west side of Union Street, and during a heavy storm the water there gets approximately
eight feet wide and three inches deep, noting they cannot get into their home without
pulling the car right up to the gate to get in, because the water gets that deep.
He noted his 80 year old mother-in-law also lived in his house, and there was no
way she could get out, pointing out this was a very dangerous situation, and he
believed it should be taken care of for the safety of the neighborhood.
Mayor/Chairman Boro stated this would be carried in the budget as a Worthy But Unfunded
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 10
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 11
Item, with Council having the option, should they choose so, to reconsider the issue
and make it an action item. He noted that rather than just reacting to the issue
at this time, he would prefer that we get something very specific which Mr. Bernardi
could show the Council, and that the neighbors were going to agree would work.
Mr. Bernardi stated he would commit to the Council, and to the residents, that staff
would have a recommendation for Council's consideration by the second meeting in
August, so they would have information with which to make a decision, one way or
another; and if they did choose to fund it, there would be enough time to build
it before it begins to rain.
PUBLIC WORKS
ADMINISTRATION & ENGINEERING
(Page 58)
Public Works Director Bernardi reported the proposed budget was a little over $6
million, and was a status quo budget. He stated the budget had increased
approximately 1.3%, explaining the increase was due, in part, to the significant
increase in overtime for the Sewer Division, but noting this was being funded by
the San Rafael Sanitation District, creating a net zero effect on the City Budget.
Mr. Bernardi reported two existing contract positions in Administration and
Engineering would be made permanent positions, noting approximately 60% of the
salaries for those positions would be funded by Redevelopment Agency projects and
Traffic Mitigation Fee projects. He stated the existing incumbents would have to
go through the recruitment process if they chose to apply for these positions.
Mr. Bernardi reported Contractual Services had been reduced by approximately $2,500,
the Equipment Account had increased by $1,500 for Xerox copier leases, and Supplies
and Services had been switched around so the actual net increase was approximately
$280.
Mr. Bernardi stated the Goals and Objectives were listed in the report, and he offered
to answer any questions the Councilmembers/Members might have.
Councilmember/Member Heller noted there had been a lot of ups and downs regarding
personnel in this section. Mr. Bernardi acknowledged this was correct, stating
the bottom line was that they wanted to make the two contract positions permanent
positions, and add them to the work force.
PUBLIC WORKS
GARAGE (Page 63)
Mr. Bernardi stated this budget was relatively flat, noting there were five positions
in this Division. He reported they would be increasing the Fuel Account by
approximately $7,000 to reflect the current increase in fuel costs, noting staff
was requesting $3,000 be funded to replace a twenty-year old diesel fuel pump.
He reported they had three pumps down at the yard, and were in the process of replacing
all of them, noting one had been replaced last fiscal year, one would be replaced
this coming fiscal year, and one would be replaced next fiscal year. He noted those
same pumps would be taken to the new corporation yard, as there was no reason we
could not recycle them.
Mr. Bernardi reported there was an increase in Contractual Services of approximately
$11,000 to cover the cost of motorcycle repairs, noting they wanted to reflect the
actual cost of repairing the motorcycles, so the budget was up by that amount.
Mr. Bernardi stated the Overtime Pay had been increased by approximately $2,500
to reflect the cost of the Garage personnel responding to emergency repairs for
the Police Department, as well as our street sweepers when they break down during
the night.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked if there was someone on staff twenty-four hours
a day? Mr. Bernardi responded this was not the case, noting someone was on-call
to respond after hours.
Councilmember/Member Phillips asked if the motorcycles Mr. Bernardi had mentioned
were Police Department motorcycles? Mr. Bernardi stated they were.
PUBLIC WORKS
STREETS AND DRAINAGE (Page 64)
Mr. Bernardi reported they were requesting four summer youth workers to assist the
Street Maintenance personnel with weed cutting and various things they needed to
do during the summer, and noted the training instruction had been increased by
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SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 12
approximately $2,000 to provide crews with additional safety training. Mr. Bernardi
stated they were also requesting the replacement Oof some of the gas detectors used
to enter confined spaces, a fourteen year old sump -pump used at one of the stations,
and a safety tripod for confined space activities. Mr. Bernardi reported they would
not be purchasing the backhoe this year, or the leaf -vac, instead postponing those
equipment purchases until next fiscal year.
Mayor/Chairman Boro reported the City was in its third year of street sweeping with
the tow -away zones in the Canal area, noting it has worked quite well. He stated
every time he goes to the Canal the streets look great, with the exception of Belvedere
and a few of the streets which run off of Francisco Boulevard. He asked if there
had been any requests, or if Mr. Bernardi had thought about extending this service
to the Canal's commercial district? Acting City Manager Golt stated the City had
received requests on at least two occasions, noting the business district is swept,
but the hours are different. Mr. Bernardi stated this district was normally
swept during the night, but even at that time, there were a lot of cars on the street.
Mr. Bernardi reported the only specific request they had received was to extend
the program to Medway, from Francisco Boulevard to Canal Street, and a portion of
Belvedere Street. Mr. Bernardi stated they had not taken any action on this because
they were not sure what the impact would be. Ms. Golt reported they had polled
all of the businesses on Medway, noting the two or three requests that had come
in were from businesses with off-street parking, and the majority of the businesses
indicated they did not want to go to the daytime sweeping because they did not have
adequate off-street parking. Therefore, nothing has been implemented at this point,
because the majority of businesses have asked not to go to daytime sweeping with
tow -away restrictions.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked if we had looked at the need in some of the
residential areas, noting some of the streets need sweeping more often than others,
and perhaps we could cut down on selected streets, and use the energy and time in
those areas of the City that need it. Mr. Bernardi stated Council might want to
ask the Public Works Department to look at a different type of program, noting the
current once a week street sweeping schedule had been set by the Council as the
standard they wanted to have. He stated if Council felt the sweeping was being
done too often in certain neighborhoods, this could be reviewed, although deleting
only a few streets in one area would not do much, and he noted the schedule would
have to be radically changed to make much of a difference.
Councilmember/Member Cohen did not feel this was something that needed to be discussed
at this time, although he noted the decision was made several years ago to cut back
on street maintenance, and we were now seeing the impact of that. He recalled one
of the decisions that had been made was that the increase in the street cleaning
program in the Canal area was to come out of the Street Maintenance Division, and
he suggested if there was a more effective way to do the street cleaning program,
or to achieve an acceptable level of service with a less intensive street cleaning
program in certain neighborhoods of the City, perhaps we should look at this,
particularly if it would free up funds that could go back to Street Maintenance.
He felt we should look at the issue over the next year, and see if the once a week
street cleaning was arbitrary, and what the appropriate level of service actually
was.
Councilmember/Member Heller noted Mr. Bernardi had reported the Public Works
Department would request the hiring of four youths to assist during the summer,
and asked if staff had thought about looking for assistance from San Quentin? Mr.
Bernardi stated the City was already participating in such a program, noting we
had been implementing it for almost a year, and it had been very successful. Mr.
Bernardi reported there were five other cities participating with San Rafael in
this program, so San Rafael got assistance approximately every six weeks.
Mr. Bernardi noted one of the ways his department had attempted to save money was
in the category of Street Painting, pointing out they were putting down thermo plastic
marking, which is a permanent pavement marking for the yellow stripes in the streets.
He explained this plastic is put down hot and bonds to the pavement, does not fade
or crack, and never has to be restriped unless the street is resurfaced.
PUBLIC WORKS
PARKS & PARKWAYS (Page 68)
Mr. Bernardi reported this Division had a part-time graffiti abatement person, and
$15,000 had been budgeted to fund the position on a half-time basis, stating this
particular person would be the department's graffiti "guru", and would be using
equipment used by the Police Department. He noted that as we get court referrals,
those individuals would be used as an additional work force to assist this part-time
person, noting City staff was responding to calls coming in on the graffiti hotline,
and this seemed to be working very well.
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 12
SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 13
Mr. Bernardi stated this Division would also be funding five summer youth workers
to assist the Maintenance Crews in maintaining the park facilities during the times
of heavy use during the summer. He noted that under Contractual Services they were
also increasing the Power Line Program funding of $10,000, in order to be a partner
with P.G.& E. in replacing trees that are growing up into the wires and causing
power outages during the winter. He explained P.G.& E. would pay for the removal
of the trees and the City, with this funding, would buy the new trees and grind
the stumps, and Marin Releaf volunteers would plant the new trees. He stated this
was a good program, and would ultimately be of benefit to the entire community in
terms of power outages.
Councilmember/Member Phillips recalled previous discussions of an Assessment
Program, providing generic guidelines for the neighborhoods interested in making
their own assessments. Mr. Bernardi stated nothing formal had been developed;
however, in some communities, such as on the San Pedro Peninsula, Mayor/Chairman
Boro and Counci lmember /Member Cohen had been working with the Homeowners Associations
who wanted to form a partnership with the City. He reported they had been charged
with the task of finding ways to fund the landscaping improvements and, ultimately,
to maintain them. He stated at this point they had not discussed an Assessment
District, they were looking at other ways to fund the improvements; however, he
noted that in the Santa Margarita area they seemed to feel an Assessment District
was the best way for them to go, pointing out this was just another way to fund
these improvements.
Councilmember/Member Heller noted during the early 1990's the City cut back quite
a bit in the area of "manicuring" in the community, and asked how many positions
had been lost in this division since the early 1990's? Mr. Bernardi reported four
or five positions had been lost since that time, and Ms. Heller pointed out that
made a tremendous difference. Mr. Bernardi noted in addition to the salary issues,
there was also the cost of the water; therefore, in the past when they have discussed
maintaining the islands, one of the issues was the cost of the water to maintain
the islands and landscaping. He noted we were currently watering our parks at draught
levels so we did not incur large increases in water costs, and we did not go up
into Tier Three, which was really expensive. He explained the City had been working
with the Water District to allow us to group meters, so if we have fifty meters
in one area, we will get an allocation for all fifty meters, and we can use that
allocation all at one meter, or we can use it over a series of meters. He noted
this required more bookkeeping on the part of the City, but it was worth it, as
this gave us a little more flexibility in maintaining the landscaping material.
PUBLIC WORKS
LAND DEVELOPMENT (Page 72)
Mr. Bernardi explained Land Development referred primarily to Building Inspection
and interfacing with the Planning Department. He pointed out one of the objectives
had been to complete the Unreinforced Masonry Building Ordinance Retrofit Program,
and this was coming in ahead of schedule, noting there were only two buildings left
in San Rafael out of the forty-two that had chosen to retrofit themselves. Of the
remaining two, the City was in contact with the owner of one of the buildings, but
the owners of the second had been somewhat recalcitrant, and the City may need to
bring the weight of the Ordinance down upon them. He noted the Department was working
with the City Attorney's office regarding the situation.
Mr. Bernardi noted Contractual Services had also increased approximately $5,000
to provide additional outside plan checking for our ADA (Americans with Disabilities
Act) requirements, noting we now had a consultant, Kim Blackseth, who has been very
helpful.
Mr. Bernardi reported funds had also been set aside for a data base consultant to
look at a permit tracking system, which would be developed in coordination with
the Planning Department. He explained this was another step in the implementation
and completion of the overall GIS system, which would not only combine the mapping,
but ultimately develop the parcel based information, as well. Mayor/Chairman Boro
asked if the terminal would be located outside the office so the public could track
with it? Mr. Bernardi stated one of their goals was to have a terminal at the front
counter, noting they already had the wiring for it, and as soon as the system was
up, they would be able to have a terminal at the counter, and the public could come
and look at permits, or whatever they needed to have. He stated this was probably
three or four years down the road, but it would be accomplished.
PUBLIC WORKS
FACILITY REPAIR (Page 74)
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SRRA/SRCC MINUTES (Spec. Jt.) 6/20/96 Page 14
Mr. Bernardi stated the three individuals in Facility Repair did a yeoman's job
in maintaining all the City buildings, noting there was a lot of deferred maintenance
in the buildings, and these men did a great job in keeping everything working and
running properly. He noted the routine repair and maintenance jobs accounted for
approximately 65% of their time; department requests, such as painting an office
or repairing a bookshelf, was approximately 32% of their
time; and parking meter repairs approximately 3% of their time.
Mayor/Chairman Boro complimented the staff in this division, noting the landscaping
and buildings looked great, and stating he was always very proud of the way they
looked.
PUBLIC WORKS
SIGNALS AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE
(Page 76)
Mr. Bernardi stated there was an increase in Contractual Services of approximately
$7,000, which reflected the current charges by the State of California for maintaining
the signals at Bellam and Francisco Boulevards. Mr. Bernardi explained the City
had a contract with the State to maintain the signals, noting the State primarily
controls these signals because they want to control the on and off ramps, and in
order to maintain the proper coordination between all of the signals, one entity
must maintain all three signal lights in the system; therefore, we were paying the
State to maintain ours as well. Mr. Bernardi also noted the timing of the signal
lights at this intersection had just been changed to accommodate approximately four
different peak flows during the day, and a new separate left turn arrow had been
added on each of the Francisco Boulevard legs of the intersection, which would make
traffic flow better. He stated the computer running it was very sophisticated,
noting there were loops in the ground which constantly compared the traffic flowing
over the loops to what had been programmed into the computer for its timing, and
if it reads that the traffic is not flowing over the loops, based on what had been
programmed, it changes itself to accommodate the traffic as it approachs the
intersection. Mr. Bernardi reported this model would be used as a prototype, to
be studied for possible use in other areas of the City.
Mr. Bernardi stated this division also worked with the neighborhoods in an attempt
to reach consensus regarding traffic issues, citing Associate Traffic Engineer Nader
MansourianIsrecent work with the Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association. He noted
they also maintained the information for the traffic models, which had proven to
be very valuable tools in the analysis of traffic impact and other projects.
PUBLIC WORKS
SANITARY SEWERS
(Page 77)
Mr. Bernardi reported this particular Division was completely funded by the San
Rafael Sanitation District under a contract between the City and the District.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked for public comment, and there was none.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips second, to
conceptually adopt the Public Works Department Operating budget, in the amount of
$6,023,091.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PUBLIC WORKS
GAS TAX (Page 112)
Mr. Bernardi presented a list of Gas Tax Expenditures staff was recommending for
consideration, explaining the $100,000 shown under Miscellaneous Right -of -Way
Improvements was an account the Department used for unforeseen projects during the
year, such as a guard rail damaged in a vehicle accident, or a traffic signal loop
which needed to be replaced.
Mr. Bernardi stated the $250,000 for traffic signals reflected funds set aside in
the budget for Council's consideration of a traffic signal for Gerstle Park. He
stated they set aside a high amount because, while the estimate for a traffic signal
installation was only $125,000, staff had found there was a high voltage line on
"D" Street which would require a minimum of ten feet of clearance from any obstruction,
and staff was not yet certain whether the City would need to pay P.G.& E. to raise
the lines to clear the mast arms for the traffic signals. If this should not be
necessary, any excess funds would go back to the Gas Tax Account, and be put into
the Overlay Program.
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Mr. Bernardi reported the City's share of the Congestion Management Agency operation
was permitted to be funded by Gas Tax Funds, and staff was recommending the City's
contribution be funded in this manner.
Mr. Bernardi pointed out the Council/Agency typically transfers $350,000 to the
Operating Fund to fund actual maintenance of the streets, such as pothole patching,
street painting, sign replacement, partial street sweeping, and any of those things
that necessarily go with the maintenance of the streets.
Steve Schoonover, 116 Antoinette Avenue, referred to a letter he had sent to the
City on behalf of the Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association, in which the Association
requested the City earmark sufficient funds for traffic control improvements on
"D" Street. Mr. Schoonover reported Associate Traffic Engineer Nader Mansourian
and Councilmember Heller had met with the Neighborhood Association in May, and were
very helpful. He stated the Association still had outstanding questions; however,
they were committed to reaching consensus soon. Mr. Schoonover noted the Association
would meet again this Fall in order to reach some kind of neighborhood consensus
regarding the safety and traffic flow issues on "D" Street, and would be reporting
back with their decision as to what they would like to see.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to
conceptually approve the Gas Tax Fund Budget, in the amount of $1,400,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PUBLIC WORKS
NATIONAL POLLUTION DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEMS (NPDES) (Page 113)
Mr. Bernardi explained this budget represented the allocation of funds collected
each year for the Marin County Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (MCSTOPPP),
and the various projects listed in the budget were projects which were necessary
to be constructed. The pump station items, in particular, were those pump stations
the Council had authorized staff to repair, based upon reports submitted by Project
Engineer Jim Fletter. Mr. Bernardi reported this budget also included a $115,000
contribution to the County -wide MCSTOPPP JPA, which is the City's share of the
County -wide Storm Water Management Program. Other miscellaneous storm drainage
improvements of $265,000 had been partially set aside to fund those pipes that
collapse during the course of the year, or are found to be bad when the storm drain
system is cleaned in September. Mr. Bernardi noted there might also be other projects
that need to be funded because of liability issues, which the Council would be dealing
with in the next two months; one was on Fifth Avenue in the Sun Valley area, and
the other was on Jewell Street, where there was currently some litigation.
Mayor/Chairman Boro referred to the Street and Drainage Division, noting Mr. Bernardi
had referenced some stations that had high exposure to saltwater, and asked if those
were the pumps which were being listed for renovation? Mr. Bernardi stated this
was correct.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked for public comment, and there was none.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Heller seconded, to
conceptually approve the NPDES budget, in the amount of $640,000.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PUBLIC WORKS
TRAFFIC MITIGATION (Page 114)
Mr. Bernardi stated this account contained the traffic mitigation fees collected
in certain areas of San Rafael, and they were broken down into two areas; Northgate ,
which is in North San Rafael, and Central San Rafael, which covers East San Rafael.
Mr. Bernardi referred to traffic mitigation for Central San Rafael, noting the
Bellam/Kerner signal installation would be implemented this fiscal year, and would
be paid for with traffic mitigation fees. He explained staff was looking at other
projects for this area, as part of the direction Council gave at the last retreat,
with regard to looking at ways to finance these projects. He stated that in looking
at the total cost of these projects, the Irene Street Overcrossing Phase I, and
Kerner Boulevard, represented $17 million, and the City only had a little less than
$4 million to fund those two improvements. Therefore, staff was looking at different
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options and ways to leverage the money we have, in order to construct these
improvements.
Mr. Bernardi reported that in the Northgate area, the Merrydale Overcrossing was
under construction and should be finished the middle of August. He stated other
projects were being considered in this area, most notably the Lucas Valley
Interchange, noting the design for that was approximately 95% complete, but there
was a question of funding for this project. He reported the other high priority
project was Phase II of the Freitas Interchange, and this would be brought back
to Council for consideration. Mr. Bernardi stated there would be a signal
installation at the intersection of McInnis Parkway and Civic Center Drive to complete
the traffic signal system, and another project that would be looked at, in conjunction
with the County of Marin, was the intersection of Civic Center Drive and North San
Pedro Road.
Mayor/Chairman Boro noted there had been discussions with the County about trading
jurisdictions, and asked if we should be spending money on this now if we are going
to be trading it? Mr. Bernardi stated McInnis Parkway and Civic Center Drive would
remain the City's jurisdiction, noting County staff was talking about Civic Center
Drive from North San Pedro Road to approximately the Avenue of the Flags.
Mr. Bernardi pointed out that some of the projects listed in the budget report were
subject to controversy within the community, and had been listed only because they
were in the General Plan, noting when the General Plan was updated, the list would
be revised accordingly.
Mr. Bernardi stated staff was recommending adoption of this Traffic Mitigation
Program as it exists, noting the funds collected were to be spent on projects which
justify the expenditure, where traffic counts are such that they require a signal,
or traffic signal modification.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked for an explanation of some of the other projects listed
in the report. Mr. Bernardi explained these were projects in the Downtown/ Peacock
Gap Traffic Mitigation Program, and were the result of the Vision for the Downtown,
and the improvements which would be necessary to accomplish that. He noted the
Mission Avenue and "B" Street improvements had been done by a private company, so
the City did not have to do that project. Mr. Bernardi reported approximately $32
million was needed for projects in this area, and the City had approximately $436,000
available.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked for further explanation regarding the $2 million
for the Lincoln Avenue Traffic Improvements. Mr. Bernardi explained this was for
the creation of two northbound lanes almost the entire way to Puerto Suello Hill.
Past traffic projections had indicated we would need two lanes northbound during
peak hours, and staff was now in the process of evaluating this. He pointed out
there were a lot of physical problems which needed to be overcome, and that was
why such a large amount had been budgeted for this project. Mr. Bernardi stated
Lincoln Avenue was currently two lanes northbound from Second Street all the way
to Paloma, where the signal is, and then it merges into a single northbound lane.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked Mr. Bernardi to come back to Council and provide an update
on the advisability of a signal at Lincoln Avenue and Linden Lane.
Councilmember/Member Cohen moved and Councilmember/Member Phillips seconded, to
conceptually adopt the Traffic Mitigation Budget, in the amount of $7,631,978.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
PUBLIC WORKS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS (Page 125)
Mr. Bernardi stated the Capital Improvements list was currently being worked on
by a sub -committee of the Budget Oversight Committee (BOC) , noting Assistant Public
Works Director Matt Naclerio was working with this committee and categorizing the
projects. Mr. Bernardi noted all of the departments submitting projects to this
program were asked to re-evaluate their projects based on the new scoring criteria,
to see where all of these projects would fall as the process was refined. He noted
there had also been discussion among the sub -committee members regarding working
with the BOC to make recommendations to the Council for funding options.
Assistant City Manager Golt pointed out this was only a status report, which did
not need to be adopted.
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Councilmember/Member Heller asked if there was any way to group like projects, noting
both Falkirk, as well as the Recreation Centers, had many different needs, but one
must look down the list and add them all together, perhaps by property, so it would
be immediately apparent which were urgent items and which ones they could wait on.
Mr. Bernardi explained that when making up the list, they divided their inventory
into buildings, storm drains, and transportation issues, so in the building area
all of the projects, including Falkirk and all the Recreation Centers, were
categorized based upon how they fit and related to the other buildings within a
particular division. Mayor/Chairman Boro suggested perhaps an identity code could
be given to each property, and then all items relating to a specific property could
be pulled out at one time. Mr. Bernardi stated this could be done.
Councilmember/Member Cohen noted the Storm Drain Capital Improvement Program had
$70 million worth of unfunded projects over the next five years, and $28 million
of that was for the San Rafael Canal Flood Control Project. He pointed out that
sooner or later they would need to have a serious discussion about where the City
was going with this project.
Mayor/Chairman Boro pointed out this was an informational report only, and no action
was required.
SAFETY SERVICES
FIRE (Page 94)
Fire Chief Robert Marcucci reported the Fire Department budget was status quo, noting
it was up only 1.3%. He stated rather than dwell on the economic aspects of the
Fire Department budget, he wished to address their successes and achievements during
the past year, noting the number one achievement was the reconstruction of Fire
Station 6, which increased the service level in the Terra Linda Valley.
Chief Marcucci stated he felt extremely positive we would retain our Protection
Class 3 classification, explaining this was based on a scale of 1 to 10, with 1
being the very best and 10 being unprotected. He noted being a Class 3 spoke well
of the City of San Rafael, and its funding of the Fire Department, pointing out
we had earned this rating even with the closure of Fire Station 3.
Chief Marcucci stated the Fire Department had developed an effective partnership
during the past year with the neighborhood organizations, noting two of his Fire
Commissioners had been instrumental in getting the Homeowners Associations involved
in Vegetation Management, as well as reaching outside the City and going into the
Los Ranchitos area, which is contiguous to San Rafael. He pointed out that fire
knows no boundaries, and a fire in Los Ranchitos would affect San Rafael.
Chief Marcucci stated the Department was very proud of the Household Hazard Waste
Program. He reported that with a grant from the Cal/EPA our Fire Department was
able to do what the County of Marin could not, which was to bring in a cost effective
Household Hazardous Waste Program. He reported the participation rate was 6% or
7%, and he credited Fire Prevention Officer Forrest Craig for his diligence in putting
this program together, and in working with Joe and Patty Garbarino at Marin Recycling.
Chief Marcucci stated they were ready to extend this program to the five other
agencies who are customers of Marin Sanitary, noting it would be a fully costed
program, which was now expected to be between $.62 - $.70 per month on the garbage
rate. Chief Marcucci noted the budget would be fully costed, and would include
a portion of Fire Prevention Officer Craig's salary for the time he spent on this,
so the budget would be put together
reflecting the number of hours and the overhead cost; therefore, the City would
be recouping Fire Prevention Officer Craig's salary, and working at making certain
the City gets its fair share.
Chief Marcucci stated that in extending the Household Hazardous Waste Program, the
Department had submitted an application to the State of California for CUPA (Certified
Unified Program Agency) certification, which would mean we could no longer manage
only one or two programs, but must manage six programs. Chief Marcucci reported
our application had been accepted, and Public Hearings would be held by the State
of California in September or October. He stated the Department had put together
a private sector user group, and Fire Prevention Officer Craig was working with
those people who would be affected by the permit process in the storage and handling
of hazardous materials, noting they have been very supportive of what the Department
was doing, and when we get to the Public Hearing process, we should have a very
positive experience.
Chief Marcucci reported the City's Emergency Plan had been completed, noting one
emergency exercise had already been held, and more would be planned during the coming
year. Chief Marcucci stated the Fire Department Dispatch Office had been remodeled
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at a very limited cost, noting that in doing the remodeling they reconfigured the
telephone lines they had been using, resulting in a savings of $1,200 per month.
Chief Marcucci reported the Fire Department's calls for service last year were up
7.1%, and in the EMS (Emergency Medical Service) section they were up 2.2%. He
stated the Department's philosophy has always been that they should somehow try
to relieve the City's General Fund of the financial obligation to the Fire Department,
and to that extent, 33% of the Fire Department's budget was revenue generated.
Chief Marcucci reported that July 1, 1996 they would be placing their third Paramedic
Unit in operation, and with the great cooperation of the Fire Association, they
were going to cross -staff a fire engine and an ambulance, so when the Department's
first two ambulances are committed, the people from the fire engine will go to the
third ambulance. He stated the Department felt this was very positive and cost
effective, using the same people to do multiple jobs, and it spoke well of the
Firemen's Association and the Fire Department staff that they were able to work
on a cooperative venture which would benefit the community.
Chief Marcucci reported discussions had begun on the new Care Taker program,
explaining the Fire Department would be the first respondent on fire, medical, and
hazardous material calls within the community. He noted often times when the Fire
Department would respond to a medical call, they found that because of age or other
physical disabilities, the problem was not really a medical call, but rather a social
call, and those arriving on the scene would have to leave, as there was nothing
they could do. Chief Marcucci stated now the Fire Department would be able to do
something, reporting they were working with Ed Ryken from Whistle Stop, and would
be referring patients to him, those people who needed more help than the Fire
Department could provide. Chief Marcucci noted Kathy Devlin had been very effective
in helping to set this up, and while this program was in its infancy, he felt it
was another program that would benefit the residents.
Referring to customer service, Chief Marcucci stated the Fire Department was set
to go with a Customer Service Survey form, noting they felt it was very important
that they ask their customers how the Department is doing, and if they find there
are areas where they are not doing well, they needed to improve upon those areas.
He stated the Department needed to provide the services the public wants, and not
necessarily the ones the Department wants to give them. Chief Marcucci noted City
Manager Gould would be reviewing the survey, and then the Department would bring
it to the Council.
Chief Marcucci stated what they were trying to do, throughout the Fire Department,
was to become a more caring organization, and to provide those services in the
community they felt were essential to provide, noting the Department seemed to have
fire under control to a large degree, while the field of emergency medicine was
ever present. He stated he believed what was happening in the field of HMO's was
going to have more impact on Fire Departments, and felt San Rafael I s Fire Department
needed to be out on the cutting edge of what they were doing.
Chief Marcucci stated one of the things the Department really needed to get into
next year, as he has discussed with the Fire Association, was the training of
Neighborhood Associations in Disaster Preparedness. He noted the first 72 hours
following an earthquake, the Fire Department was going to be committed to collapsed
buildings, putting out fires, and other major emergencies, and the neighborhoods
would have to be self-sufficient. He noted the Department already had a program
they were ready to go with.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked if there was a breakdown of the 911 emergency
calls, showing how many go to the Fire Department for health problems, and how many
go to the Police Department for public safety problems? Chief Marcucci reported
the Fire Department and the Police Department had a very good working relationship
because, by California State law, all 911 calls must first go to the Police Department.
He stated the Police Department does a very effective job, and the Fire Department
does get all of the medical calls, noting that even if the Police Department feels
it is not a medical call, if there is a chance that there are also injuries taking
place, such as in a domestic abuse call, then both the Police Department and the
Fire
Department respond to the call. Chief Marcucci stated they also receive 911 calls
from County Communications, because calls from people in Upper Lucas Valley,
Marinwood, and CSA 19 first go to County Communications, and they are then transferred
to our Fire Department.
Councilmember/Member Heller asked how we were doing on enforcement of the Weed
Abatement Program? Chief Marcucci stated the Vegetation Management Program was
working fairly well, noting they had tried to use the $40, 000 allocated by the Council
in a very cost effective way by developing partnerships with the neighborhoods.
As an example, in the Fair Hills area they told the homeowners to cut the brush
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behind their homes and the Open Space lands, and haul it to the street, and the
Fire Department would pay for the chipper; and in other neighborhoods, such as the
Dominican area, they told the residents that if they cut brush for one day, then
the Fire Department would bring the Conservation Corps in for one day on the Open
Space lands, and take care of the chipping. Chief Marcucci stated the program was
working very well, acknowledging they had gotten started a little slow, and had
a couple of recalcitrants who took some time to deal with, but the Department did
get them to take care of their problems. Chief Marcucci stated they were now
beginning to do work on Open Space land, noting one of the major costs of Vegetation
Management in City Open Space land was the disposal cost, which was very expensive.
He reported Fire Prevention Officer Craig suggested cutting the brush on the Open
Space land, and then burning it. Chief Marcucci stated they tried this and it worked
very effectively, noting we had no disposal costs, reporting the Department had
hired members of the Marin Conservation Corps, and it was a very effective way
of reducing the Department's costs. Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if there was money
for this program in the budget for the upcoming year? Chief Marcucci reported $40,000
had been budgeted last year, but because of budget constraints, only $25,000 was
budgeted for this year.
Mayor/Chairman Boro asked if Chief Marcucci now had all the legal bases cleared,
so if the City wanted to cite someone it could be done? Chief Marcucci responded
that was correct.
Councilmember/Member Phillips noted the City had purchased a couple of fire engines
not long ago, and asked if they were included in actual expenditures for this budget?
Chief Marcucci stated this came under the Equipment Replacement program, and the
City Budget reflected the rental rate on those pieces of equipment.
Mary Ellen Irwin, San Rafael Fire Commissioner, addressed the Council/Agency
regarding the special Vegetation Management item. She noted the budget for this
item had been reduced from $40,000 to $25,000, just as they had begun doing some
very effective things. Ms. Irwin stated Vegetation Management currently affected
approximately 2,000 homes within the City of San
Rafael, noting they were now actively involved in seven neighborhood areas, and
calls kept coming in from other areas.
Ms. Irwin reported the money the neighborhoods had to spend was very small, noting
the dues were usually $10-$25, and the money collected from the dues was used on
dumpsters, the Marin Conservation Corps, or individual work the neighborhood was
doing, those things the Fire Department did not pay for.
Ms. Irwin reported the volunteer labor was enormous, and the passion about what
they do was extraordinary. She stated all the neighborhoods helped each other and
worked collectively on common areas, or areas of extreme risk, noting individuals
did a lot of the work. She stated the huge problem was disposal, and that was what
the $40,000 was really needed for. Ms. Irwin explained they were working at trying
to bring those costs down through cooperation with Fire Safe Marin, reporting they
had speakers coming in almost every month, discussing some phase of the disposal
costs, and there were entrepreneurs who were trying to come up with ways of reducing
those costs. She reported Joe Garbarino was a member of that Board, and he was
also trying to find ways to reduce the cost. Ms. Irwin stated she did not expect
this fund to have to stay in place, but its uses were to help clean out the Scotch
Broom, and the Convent Court project, and she noted there was no other source of
funds to get this work done. Ms. Irwin stated they had discussed a rollover of
funds for enforcement, so there would be money there to supplement the cost in case
they did have to pursue an enforcement.
Ms. Irwin pointed out that encouraging joint projects also required funding, noting,
for example, a neighborhood that wanted MCC to come in but could not afford the
$1,000 daily rate, plus the $300 for a dumpster. She stated there needed to be
a partnership with the City, acknowledging the neighborhoods must do something,
but noting it was difficult getting a neighborhood started in doing this, as it
was very time consuming, and very expensive for the neighborhood. She noted
neighborhoods find that as they do this, there is more and more interest in their
Association, and things get better as time goes on.
Ms. Irwin stated the next big expense these funds helped with was the cost of the
chipper. She reported this was the fourth year of having the chipper in Fair Hills,
and thanked the Fire Department for getting it there; however, she noted it cost
$3,700, plus dumping. She reported sixty-one sites had vast amounts of debris to
be chipped, and the contractor had to bring up two trucks and work for two days,
because so many people had so much debris. Ms. Irwin stated this project was, by
far, the most successful thing they had ever done, in part because this was the
fourth year of the program, and people knew what they needed to do and were not
frustrated by not knowing how to get rid of the debris once they got the clean-up
done. Ms. Irwin encouraged the Council to maintain the budget for this project
at the $40,000 level, because the program was growing, it was effective, and the
ramifications were incredible for the City.
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Ms. Irwin stated there had been two fires in the Fair Hills area, and it helped
enormously that some of the people in the neighborhood had already done their clean-up
work, noting that during the last fire, the two properties which had fire come right
up to the houses were those where the owners had not done the work.
Councilmember/Member Cohen asked if all of the $40,000 was used for these neighborhood
programs, noting they had earlier discussed the need for the City to maintain and
clean-up the Open Space? Chief Marcucci stated the money was used for both projects.
Mr. Cohen stated that in addition to the compelling arguments about the partnering
we were doing with some of this money, it was important to note that if we were
now going to enforce the homeowners' cooperation, we had to be able to say the City
was doing what it could to clean-up the Open Space, and show that we are being
responsible as we go out and ask the homeowners to be responsible for their properties.
Chief Marcucci reported the Fire Department had just completed two days of clearing
Open Space lands in the Glenwood area, and shortly would be working on San Rafael
Hill. He agreed the City needed to get its own house in order before we could tell
someone else to get their house in order, and stated he makes sure the City is doing
its fair share.
Councilmember/Member Heller stated she would like to encourage the City's use of
the Marin Conservation Corps whenever possible, noting this was certainly worth
funding the money it costs, and it was a wonderful service for the kids who were
learning a skill.
Mayor/Chairman Boro informed Ms. Irwin her request to maintain $40,000 in the budget
for this project would be considered during the Budget Hearing on 6/24/96.
Councilmember/Member Phillips moved and Councilmember/Member Cohen seconded, to
conceptually adopt the Fire Department budget, in the amount of $8,262,224.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Phillips & Mayor/Chairman Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS/MEMBERS: None
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 11:10 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
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