HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 1998-02-17SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 1
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 1998 AT
8:00 PM
Regular Meeting:
San Rafael City Council
Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor
Paul M. Cohen,
Councilmember
Barbara Heller, Councilmember
Cyr N. Miller, Councilmember
Gary O. Phillips, Councilmember
Absent: None
Also Present: Rod Gould, City Manager
Gary T. Ragghianti, City Attorney
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
CLOSED SESSION - 7:00 PM
None
OPEN SESSION - 7:00 PM
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE:
PM
iteJ91I93
MILL STREET SHELTER - 100 X 9-3-16 X 233
Melany Kramer, resident of Harbor Center, stated this was her fourth visit to
the San Rafael City Council, and she was again requesting the Councilmembers
treat her allegations against the Mill Street Shelter as an item to go on the
Agenda, noting she would continue to be back on Urgency Hearing Calendars until
they do. She reported that today she had delivered to the City Clerk's Office a
two-page letter, which details the abuses of residents at Mill Street, including
those experiences she went through during her short stay there. She asked
Council to take seriously the issue of the drug and alcohol abuse by staff
members and residents at the Mill Street Shelter, and the fact that sexual
favors are being extracted in exchange for the ability to have a place to live.
She pointed out those to whom she had sent copies of her letter, including the
County Board of Supervisors, John Burton, Lynn Woolsey, Diane Feinstein, Barbara
Boxer, the Federal Bureau of Investigation in San Francisco, Equal Rights
Advocates in San Francisco, and the State Licensing Board. Ms. Kramer noted the
City issues a Use Permit to Mill Street, and it would not exist in San Rafael
without it.
Mayor Boro instructed City Manager Gould to pursue the allegations, and report
back to Council. Ms. Kramer asked when she could expect a report with a real
investigation? City Manager Gould stated, as he had previously reported to the
City Council and to Ms. Kramer, after she made a series of allegations at
previous Council meetings, he asked the Police Department, the Fire Department,
Code Enforcement, and the County Health Department to review their records for
complaints at the Mill Street Shelter, and also to perform three inspections
over a period of two weeks, to look for violations and issues within the
jurisdiction of the City of San Rafael to enforce. Mr. Gould stated a small
number of Fire Code violations were found, but none of the issues Ms. Kramer had
raised. He pointed out her allegations were not within the City's jurisdiction,
as they are civil matters, and the City has suggested she pursue them civilly.
He offered to ask the Police Department and the others to again investigate the
Shelter. Mayor Boro stated, in light of Ms. Kramer's letter, he would like Mr.
Gould to pursue this issue one additional time, and submit a written report of
his findings to the Council and Ms. Kramer. Mayor Boro stated there would be a
hearing if it was found to be warranted.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Cohen seconded, to approve the
following Consent Calendar items:
ITEM RECOMMENDED ACTION
1. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of Approved as submitted.
Tuesday, January 20, 1998 (CC)
2. Call for Applications for One, Four -Year Term Accepted staff
recommendation:
on the Fire Commission Due to Expiration of a) Called for
applications to
Term of Dr. Stephen Mizroch (Term to Expire fill one, four-year
term on
End of March, 1998) (CC) - File 9-2-5 the Fire Commission,
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 1
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 2
applications due by
Tuesday, March 10, 1998 at
12:00 Noon in the City
Clerk's Office;
b) Set date for interviews
of applicants at Special
meeting to be held on
Monday, March 16, 1998 at
6:30 PM. Term to Expire
End of March, 2002.
3. Approval of Volunteer Program Advisory Committee Approved staff
recommendation:
New Appointees (CM) - File 9-2-53 x 235 Volunteer Program
Advisory
Committee and length of
terms:
Kara Birkenstock, 2/99;
Barbara Bloom, 2/00;
Christine Chun, 2/99;
Carol Dillon, 2/99; Jeanne
Friedel, 2/00; Connor
Kamada, 2/00; Deborah
Meltzer, 2/00; Tom Obletz,
2/99; Marcia Schatz, 2/00.
4. Summary of Legislation Affecting San Rafael
(CM) - File 9-1
5. Resolution of Appreciation to Bill Tuikka,
Associate Planner, Employee of the Quarter
Ending December 31, 1997 (CM)
- File 102 x 9-3-85 x 7-4
Approved staff
recommendation:
AB 511 (Migden) Bank In -
Lieu Tax, SUPPORT; AB 726
(Baugh), Sexually Oriented
Businesses, SUPPORT; AB
1236 (Floyd), Public
Safety Officers Procedure
Bill of Rights, OPPOSE; AB
1677 (McClintock),
Redevelopment Debt,
OPPOSE; SB 1388 (Knight),
Real Property, OPPOSE.
RESOLUTION NO. 10020 -
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
TO
TO BILL TUIKKA, ASSOCIATE
PLANNER, EMPLOYEE OF THE
QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER
31, 1997.
6. Resolution of Appreciation to Ria Tuatagaloa, RESOLUTION NO. 10021
Retired Deputy Finance Director (Admin. Svcs.)
- File 102 x 9-3-20
RESOLUTION OF
APPRECIATION TO
RIA TUATAGALOA, RETIRED
DEPUTY FINANCE DIRECTOR.
7. Monthly Investment Report (Admin. Svcs.) Accepted report for
month
- File 8-18 x 8-9 ending January, 1998.
9. Request for Partial Closure of Fifth Avenue at Approved staff
recommendation.
"D" Street Parking Lot for T&B Sports Event on
Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, March 1, 1998
(RA) - File 11-19
10. Second Street Widening Project - Resolution RESOLUTION NO. 10022
Accepting Proposal from CSW/Stuber Stroeh for RESOLUTION ACCEPTING
PROPOSAL
Design and Preparation of Plans and Specifications FROM CSW/STUBER-
STROEH
for Second Street Widening Project, and Authorizing ENGINEERING GROUP,
INC. FOR
the Execution of the Agreement With CSW/Stuber- DESIGN AND
PREPARATION OF
Stroeh (PW) - File 4-3-342 x 11-15 x (SRRA) R-405 PLANS AND
SPECIFICATIONS FOR SECOND
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 2
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 3
STREET WIDENING PROJECT,
AND AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR
TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT
WITH CSW/STUBER-STROEH
ENGINEERING GROUP, INC.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor
Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
The following item was removed from the Consent Calendar for further discussion:
8. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING RENEWAL OF AGREEMENT WITH TERRA LINDA ORCA SWIM CLUB
FOR 1998 SWIM SEASON (Rec) - File 4-10-172 x 9-3-65
Councilmember Phillips asked, in light of the recent Cost Study, if the
recovery the City is expecting under the terms of this agreement was
sufficient to pay for the cost of operations? City Manager Gould noted
when the series of study sessions regarding the Business Cost Study were
held, it was clear where the City Council wanted to go in regard to a host
of fees and charges, but they did not reach consensus on what they wanted
to do about many of the recreation programs, as far as recovery, public
subsidy, and the like. He noted those decisions had been deferred until
better data could be gathered, and staff could put together proposals for
Council's consideration, as to what level of cost recovery the City should
achieve for various classes, programs, and activities. Mr. Gould stated he
could not respond as to whether this was a proper recovery, but noted it
was
certainly in line with what other communities are charging for private swim
clubs' use of public property. Councilmember Phillips stated he hoped the
system could be refined by next year so Council could have a clearer
picture.
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Cohen seconded, to adopt the
Resolution authorizing the signing of an agreement with the Terra Linda
Orca Swim Club for the 1998 swim season.
RESOLUTION NO. 10023 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SIGNING OF AN
AGREEMENT WITH TERRA LINDA ORCA SWIM CLUB FOR 1998
SWIM SEASON.
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
SPECIAL PRESENTATION:
11. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO BILL TUIKKA, ASSOCIATE
PLANNER, EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1998 (CM) - File 102
x 9-3-85 x 7-4 x 10-2
This item was carried over to the meeting of 3/2/98.
PUBLIC HEARING:
12. PUBLIC HEARING - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AN AMENDMENT TO A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AND SIDNEY HENDRICKS, DENNIS HORNE AND SPINNAKER
POINT DEVELOPMENT, INC. (OWNER) (CA) - File 5-1-292 x 3-1-1476
Mayor Boro declared the public hearing opened, and asked for the staff
report.
City Attorney Ragghianti noted the staff report had been prepared pursuant
to negotiations with the owners of the property. He reported that in
connection with the matter having to do with the construction of the
Baypoint Lagoon, it was agreed the City would entertain a request to extend
the current Development Agreement which exists on the property for another
two years. He stated the only way to accomplish that was to do it by
Ordinance, and the document now before Council for consideration does that.
Mr. Ragghianti reported that since the staff report was prepared, staff
received a telephone call from Mr. Neil Sorenson, Attorney, who indicated
there were two legal entities who are presently owners of, or enjoy
ownership interest of, the subject property, and will need to be identified
tonight, so the Ordinance can be amended to so reflect.
Councilmember Heller asked why this had to be done with an Ordinance,
rather than a Resolution? City Attorney Ragghianti explained Development
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 3
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 4
Agreement legislation requires that Development Agreements may only be
adopted, amended or modified by Ordinance.
Neil Sorensen, Attorney representing the owners and applicants, reported
that since the Development Agreement was entered into in 1993, a portion of
the property has been transferred to fully owned entities of the Developer,
so the property is now owned by Spinnaker Point Development, Inc., Pablo
Land, Inc., and Rockport Land, Inc., and those two names should be added to
the amendment to the Development Agreement. Mr. Ragghianti asked Mr.
Sorensen to provide the names to the City Clerk and the City Attorney's
Office, so the Ordinance can be amended to reflect those names.
Mayor Boro asked if there was any problem in going forward with this
tonight? City Attorney Ragghianti stated there was not.
There being no further public comment, Mayor Boro closed the public
hearing.
Councilmember Cohen noted the substance of this had already been resolved
by a Settlement Agreement Council agreed to last year.
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AUTHORIZING THE
EXECUTION OF AN AMENDMENT TO A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF
SAN RAFAEL AND SIDNEY HENDRICKS, DENNIS HORNE AND SPINNAKER POINT
DEVELOPMENT, INC., PABLO LAND CORPORATION, AND ROCKPORT LAND CORPORATION
('OWNER')"
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to dispense
with the reading of the Ordinance in its entirety and refer to it by title
only, and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1720 to print, by the following vote,
to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller, Phillips & Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
13. PUBLIC HEARING - REVIEW OF PD (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT) DISTRICT ZONE CHANGE,
USE PERMIT, ENVIRONMENTAL AND DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT, TENTATIVE SUBDIVISION
MAP AND DRAFT DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FOR FAIR, ISAAC OFFICE PARK
DEVELOPMENT, SECOND STREET, LINDARO STREET, AND LINCOLN AVENUE; VILLAGE
PROPERTIES, APPLICANT; FAIR, ISAAC & COMPANY, TENANT AND OPTIONEE; AP NOS.
13-012-120, 13-021-100 AND 13-021-190 (CITY FILE NOS. ZC-97-2, UP -97-10,
ED -07-24, TS -97-1, AND DA -97-1) (CD)
- File 10-3 x 10-5 x 10-7 x (SRRA) R-368
Mayor Boro declared the public hearing opened, and recused himself from
this item, due to conflict of interest. He turned the gavel over to Vice -
Mayor Phillips.
Interim Community Development Director Sheila Delimont reported a public
hearing was held on February 9th regarding the final EIR (Environmental
Impact Report) and Response to Comments, which was prepared for the 406,000
square foot Fair, Isaac Office Park development, and on a 4-0-1 vote,
Council voted to certify the EIR. She noted tonight's public hearing was
the second phase, at which Council would consider the Merits of the office
project. She stated the applications now before Council include the
Planned District Zoning, Environmental and Design Review Permit, the
Tentative Subdivision Map, the Use Permit, and Draft Development Agreement.
Ms. Delimont reported that on February 3rd the Planning Commission
reviewed all of these applications, and the Commission recommended Council
approve this project.
Ms. Delimont noted the staff report for tonight's meeting was very
voluminous and covered numerous project issues, including the summary of
the General Plan issues, as well as Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance
provisions pertinent to this project. Summarizing some of the primary
issues, Ms. Delimont referred to the proposed building height bonus, and
community use of the conference/meeting room facilities and accompanying
outdoor areas. Ms. Delimont reported the Zoning Ordinance for this area
permits buildings up to 54 feet in height, but also provides for a 24 foot
Building Height Bonus in exchange for either park area next to Mahon Creek,
or a 10,000 square foot community facility. She stated the request for a
Building Height Bonus for four of these buildings proposes a community use
facility of 10,000 gross square feet, with meeting/conference room space in
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 4
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 5
Building A, as well as seasonal use of 16,000 square feet of outdoor plaza
area, and an additional 19,000 square feet of adjacent lawn and
amphitheater area. She noted these outdoor areas would be available from
May through October 31st, and the applicants proposed the facilities would
be available during the weekday hours of 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, and on
Saturday and Sunday from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM for use by not-for-profit
organizations, homeowner groups, neighborhood groups, and schools in San
Rafael, and also for use by the City of San Rafael.
In reviewing the proposed bonus, there were two considerations Council
needed to keep in mind; one was the appropriateness of the building heights
for the site, and the second was the adequacy of the Community Use
proposal. Ms. Delimont reported the Design Review Board did review this
project, including the proposed heights, and felt it was an appropriate
building for this particular location. She noted the Final EIR also
concluded the project would not have any significant visual impacts. She
pointed out there were some excellent computer simulations contained in the
document, to aid Council in making this decision. She reported both the
Planning Commission and staff had reviewed the adequacy of the community
use. She felt it was important to note the Height Bonus provisions for the
Zoning Ordinance require that the facilities be made available to the
public for cultural and community events, and that the facilities be
maintained and operated by the property owner. She pointed out the
proposal does not require that the facility be publicly owned and operated;
therefore, there were a number of rules and regulations proposed by Fair,
Isaac, which staff feels are acceptable and reasonable. She noted the
proposal had initially included a 72 hour cancellation clause, and possible
requirements for a security guard, which would be charged to the users;
however, those components were deleted as it went through the hearing
process. She reported staff had originally recommended the facilities be
made available to governmental agencies, but this was not acceptable to
Fair, Isaac, so staff was recommending a revision to state use could be
made available to governmental agencies if the function or event is related
to a San Rafael issue or activity, such as when Caltrans had hearings
regarding the HOV lane.
Ms. Delimont stated another issue was a proposal for a waiver from the
Wetlands Set -back Buffer Requirements, noting it was outlined in the final
EIR that a portion of the building "B" was encroaching, but there was the
required 50 foot set -back from Mahon Creek Wetlands. She stated this was
actually encroaching into a proposed Wetland area that has not yet been
created, noting it is part of the Andersen Drive mitigation area. She
reported it was suggested in the EIR, and in discussions with the
Department of Fish and Game, that the path either be shifted closer to the
buildings, or be eliminated. She noted the Planning Commission recommended
the path be shifted north, so there could be an additional buffer area
there.
Ms. Delimont stated the City is currently reviewing a proposal to modify
the Wetland Mitigation Area, because one of the groundwater monitoring
wells is in this area, and it is likely that this area will be adjusted.
She explained, if that is done, then the modifications to the set -back will
no longer be an issue, because it will no longer be required.
Ms. Delimont reported another issue that has been raised is the adequacy of
the on-site parking, noting the proposed parking ratio is 3 spaces per
1,000 gross square feet, while the Zoning Ordinance and EIR note that a 1
per 300 ratio would be more appropriate. She stated there is a difference
of 135 spaces, and the mitigation for this is to provide a Parking
Contingency Plan, which has been identified as potentially being provided
in the parking garage. She stated Fair, Isaac believes what is being
proposed is appropriate for their use, pointing out the Use Permit would
require ongoing monitoring of the parking, so if what is currently provided
is not adequate, they could then move to the contingencies.
Ms. Delimont reported a Draft Development Agreement has been prepared which
would vest the project for a ten year period, noting in return for this,
Fair, Isaac was proposing to contribute $250,000 to the City for partial
implementation of improvements along Mahon Creek. She pointed out there
was no nexus between the proposed office and Mahon Creek, so this
contribution could not be required as part of the standard Project Review
Process; it was only through the Development Agreement that the City could
get this. She stated it would be intended to provide a bicycle/pedestrian
path along the south side of the creek, between Lindaro Street and
Francisco Boulevard West.
Referring to Traffic Improvements and the timing for the widening of Second
Street, Ms. Delimont reported these issues had been gone over very
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 5
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 6
thoroughly in the EIR presentation. She noted the widening of Second
Street was proposed to occur during Phase I construction of Fair, Isaac,
and the street widening would include both the General Plan required
improvements along Second Street, as well as some project related
improvements, and the undergrounding of overhead lines. She stated
Department of Public Works has put together a Phasing Schedule to ensure
the widening can occur in phases to meet the January, 2000 completion date,
which is the Fair, Isaac target. Ms. Delimont noted the Conditions of
Approval include a Condition that is recommended to ensure the Level of
Service is maintained along Second Street if Phase I of Fair, Isaac, the
Macy's Redevelopment Project, and the Kaiser Project are ready for
occupancy prior to the completion of the widening. She explained if all
three projects were in line, this could cause our Level of Service to
deteriorate below General Plan standards, so staff was recommending a
Condition requiring interim TSM measures be imposed to reduce the project's
proportional traffic, in order to maintain the Level of Service during this
interim. She stated this Condition would also be required of the other
projects, and they would also have to pay their fair share of the widening
project.
Ms. Delimont stated the Design Review Board had given the project a
favorable review and recommended approval of the Design Review Permit, and
the Planning Commission had also recommended approval.
Councilmember Cohen referred to the interim TSM measures, and asked if he
were correct that there is a plan which shows that if those measures were
implemented, the impact would be reduced, so the impact on Level of Service
prior to the widening of Second Street would be mitigated? Ms. Delimont
stated this was correct, noting the Traffic Engineer has noted the number
of trips they contribute that would bring it below the Level of Service,
and they will be required to implement TSM so those trips are not there
during the peak hours. Mr. Cohen asked if we had some kind of performance
standard for that, noting he recalled when there was TSM implementation for
the YMCA, as an offset for other mitigations, those targets simply could
not be met. He noted the YMCA simply paid the City more money, but that
would not work here, because we are talking about a Level of Service
Impact. He asked how we were addressing that? Ms. Delimont stated they
would specifically have to put together a program which hits that number of
trips. She noted Traffic Engineer Nader Mansourian knows exactly how many
trips they contribute during the peak hours, and we will monitor the level
of service there, and determine how many trips they will need to reduce it
to maintain the level of service. She reported there was also a Condition
that requires ongoing TSM, and there will be an annual review of the Use
Permit for compliance with that, as well.
Referring to the issue of parking, and the possibility of adding 135 spaces
if that should prove to be necessary, Councilmember Cohen asked if it would
be possible to add those 135 spaces for commuter parking, at some point in
the future, if a funding source could be found, if the City found that
Fair, Isaac had been correct it their parking assessment, and those 135
spaces were not needed? He wondered, if there was a slight change in the
public policy approach to this, and providing additional parking in the
area of the Transportation Center made good sense, could those spaces be
added at someone else's expense, and a separation maintained between those
spaces and the Fair, Isaac parking, to address the security concerns of
Fair, Isaac? Ms. Delimont stated that as part of the DDA, there was an
attached Memorandum from the Redevelopment Agency which deals with the sale
of the Corporation Yard, and addresses the Transportation Center. She
noted the memorandum references the fact that during the Vision and General
Plan this was done as a transfer site. It also discusses the fact that the
concept of shared parking facilities, or the inclusion of other uses on the
Corporation Yard, were discussed with Fair, Isaac representatives in 1996,
but it was determined that this substantially conflicted with their desires
for a campus identity, as well as security and financing issues. She
stated the inclusion of other uses or shared parking could cause a
reconsideration of whether the site could adequately accommodate the Fair,
Isaac facility. She also pointed out current General Plan policies do not
address a Park and Ride lot in that location, although it was specifically
looked at during the Vision process.
Cecilia Bridges, Attorney representing Fair, Isaac, introduced Larry
Rosenberger, President and CEO of Fair, Isaac, John Woldrich, Executive
Vice -President and COO of Fair, Isaac, Michael Riordan, Vice President of
Fair, Isaac, Stephen Gale, Project Manager for Fair, Isaac, and Marty
Zemcik, of Village Builders.
Larry Rosenberger, President and CEO of Fair,Isaac, thanked the Council,
and asked them to continue to work with Fair, Isaac to make this project a
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 6
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 7
reality for their company, and for the citizens and businesses of San
Rafael. He recalled that in 1996, when the City, the Redevelopment Agency,
and the community representatives came to Fair, Isaac with a concept for a
corporate campus within walking distance to Downtown San Rafael, Fair,
Isaac was intrigued with the idea of fulfilling their additional office
space needs on this infill site, one that badly needed redevelopment. He
noted the site has turned out to be challenging. Mr. Rosenberger stated
Fair, Isaac set out to accomplish both the City's vision for a gateway
entrance to Downtown San Rafael and a high quality office project, with
Fair, Isaac's vision of a second campus in Marin County, as a long-term
home for their company, located with convenient access for their employees
coming from the north, the south and East Bay areas. He noted it has not
been quite as easy as everyone first thought, stating Fair, Isaac owed a
very large "thank you" to the Mayor and the City Council, and to the entire
City and Redevelopment Agency staffs, particularly Planner Paul Jensen.
Mr. Rosenberger also thanked the project team, especially David Israel and
the architect team from Backen, Arrigoni & Ross, noting they have planned a
beautiful set of buildings and landscaped areas, which will be, as the
General Plan states, "a graceful addition to the views of Downtown San
Rafael". However, Mr. Rosenberger stated that as graceful and beautiful as
these buildings will be, they believed the largest value of Fair, Isaac to
Downtown San Rafael, by far, will not be its buildings, but rather its
greatest value will be the employees, and what they will contribute to
Downtown San Rafael, that will be the real enhancement. Mr. Rosenberger
acknowledged that as we move forward there are bound to be additional
challenges during the final design and construction of their new home, and
when these new challenges do arise, he asked that Council think of this
first, greatest enhancement, and work with Fair, Isaac to accomplish each
of their goals jointly.
Cecilia Bridges distributed copies of the Site Plan for Phase I and Phase
II, Exhibit "A" to the Development Agreement, and a letter regarding
community use of the facilities. Ms. Bridges noted the rules for community
use of this private facility are in the process of being developed. She
pointed out a basic set of rules is included in Condition 2 of the Use
Permit, and there is also a kind of further, "next level" set of details,
which she believed would be developed further as they begin to use the
facility. She stated it was Fair, Isaac's intent, as those additional
rules are developed, to use the City's existing rules for the community
facility at "B" Street and at Falkirk, noting they had spoken with the
Directors of both those facilities, and they have been very helpful.
Ms. Bridges stated there were two issues she would like to summarize
regarding the Development Agreement. First, regarding the term of the
Development Agreement, she stated for a project of this size, in order to
match Fair, Isaac's projected needs for space, a ten year term was
necessary to be able to fulfill five buildings and two parking structures.
Regarding the Public Benefits of the Agreement, she noted these benefits
were much more than the contribution for Mahon Creek. She stated the first
public benefit is the conversion of a blighted, vacant, Downtown site, to a
high quality office, which will contribute to the vitality of the Downtown
and, in fact, will contribute to the economic base of the entirety of San
Rafael, not just the Downtown. The second benefit is the development of an
attractive gateway to the City, as everyone has said they wanted, and a
gateway that is consistent with the source of that statement, the Downtown
San Rafael Vision. The third benefit is to include, within this
development, property which is badly under used as the City's Corporation
Yard, which now finds itself in the middle of Downtown San Rafael. The
fourth benefit is the dedication, contributions, and improvements by Fair,
Isaac to the public road system, sewers, water drainage, landscaping, and
irrigation, which includes a $1.1 million contribution which enables the
planning and construction of the public improvements to Second Street by
the City. She noted there were also public improvements to Lindaro Street
and Lincoln Avenue, which will both be done as part of this project, and
also a $250,000 contribution for public improvements for a public path and
landscaping on the south side of the Mahon Creek conceptual plan. Ms.
Bridges stated this Development Agreement was consistent with the General
Plan objectives, is compatible with the Land Use District for this
property, conforms with good land use practice, and public convenience and
welfare, and is in the best interest of the City, and the health, safety,
and general welfare of its residents.
On behalf of Fair, Isaac and Village Properties, Ms. Bridges asked for
Council's approval of the Development Agreement.
Peter Kleinbrodt, Attorney, noted staff was recommending approval of this
project based on the determination that either the significant effects
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would be mitigated upon Council's determination that they are unavoidable,
or there are overriding considerations. He stated he did not believe all
of the significant effects had been identified in the EIR documents, and
respectfully requested Council hold off on approval of these Resolutions at
this time. He acknowledged the EIR did identify circulation improvements,
noting it clearly establishes the widening of Second Street and Francisco
Boulevard West, among other improvements that have also been added to the
mitigation report. He stated the EIR recognizes that Second and Third
Streets are critical arteries in the Countywide system, and need to be
retained as efficient corridors. He reported Impact 4.1A of the EIR
states, "The construction of off-site improvements and their impacts will
be discussed in the respective section of the EIR". He further pointed out
that under Impact 4.1E, regarding Consistency with Planning, Police and
Zoning, the EIR states the proposed project would not result in degradation
of the LOS Peak Hour standards, but tonight he had heard otherwise.
Mr. Kleinbrodt noted Councilmember Miller emphasized at the Certification
Hearing there would certainly be "pain for the gain", stating he agreed,
and what concerned him was that we were learning about the pain subsequent
to the hearings, where this information should have come forward. He
stated the EIR refers the reader to Section 4.5 for a detailed discussion
regarding transportation related impacts associated with the project. He
reported that section was prepared by Fehr and Peers Associates, and has
been thoroughly reviewed through the various stages. Unfortunately, under
the "Existing Conditions" on Page 4.5-8, Fehr and Peers Associates admit
there are often congested conditions along quads on the arterial roadways
that lead to the freeway, such as at Second Street and Hetherton, Mission
Avenue and Irwin Street, and the Irwin Street on-ramp to northbound Highway
101. He stated we were all familiar with the current congestion, noting it
is heavy and problematic. He noted Page 4.5-11 states, "In the morning,
heavy eastbound traffic volumes on Second Street result in LOS D
conditions. In the evening, it is the same condition"; therefore, in the
morning and evening, Second Street is problematic.
Mr. Kleinbrodt stated his concern is that the EIR, under "Construction
Period Impacts", sites the presence of slow moving construction vehicles,
and concludes that will be significant, and he pointed out there was no
discussion of what is going to happen on Second Street during the phasing
of this construction, nor is the impact on the adjoining streets discussed.
He noted he read in the report the phasing was going to be over a one-year
period, and at last week's meeting he learned from Mr. Mansourian's
comment, that during construction the closure of two lanes of Second Street
is planned. Mr. Kleinbrodt stated those impacts will obviously reduce the
effectiveness of Second Street, and he did not know what they would do to
the adjoining streets. He felt there was a failure in the EIR to look at
those issues.
Mr. Kleinbrodt pointed out not only does CEQA require mitigation and
monitoring, but monitoring is not mitigation, noting mitigation and
evaluation of mitigation are important, and what the effects of those
mitigations will be. He stated we are going to mitigate Second Street by
widening it, but we do not know what we are going to go through for a year.
He pointed out his firm is on the Fifth floor (of a building on Second
Street), and they are going to be impacted by not using Second Street in
the morning, and by the congestion down Lincoln Avenue, and north on Fifth
Avenue. He stated the ultimate decision of whether to approve a project,
be that decision right or wrong, popular or unpopular, is an anomaly if it
is based on an EIR that does not approve or provide the decision makers and
the public with the information about the project that is required by CEQA.
He urged Council not to approve the Resolutions until it is known what the
true construction impacts will be. He stated he and his clients want to
know what the gain will be for the pain.
Gary Ford, resident of San Rafael, stated he believed Fair, Isaac was a
good project in a bad location, noting the more he learns about the
project, the more he has his beliefs reinforced. He referred to Page 247
of staff's report to the Planning Commission, in which they discuss the
TSM. He felt they made an excellent point when they stated, "The TSM
Program anticipates a maximum Fair, Isaac employment of 1,300 employees"
and, in fact, the EIR made the explicit assumption that the population of
the project would be 1,300. Mr. Ford noted all the traffic implications,
and all the traffic studies, were based on two factors: a) the number of
employees, and b) the amount of square footage. He reported this
recommendation from the Planning staff states further, "There are no
guarantees that Fair, Isaac will not exceed the amount of employees
presented in this proposal", which means the employee population at this
site could go up to 1,500 to 2,000, with the resulting impact of further
cars into San Rafael. In addition, the staff report noted, "As a condition
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of the Office Park Use Permit, the City can impose a 'cap' on the maximum
number of employees for the Office Park; however, such a condition would be
difficult to monitor and enforce". Mr. Ford stated he felt there should be
a cap on the number of employees at this Office Park, and believed it was
quite irresponsible to approve a project, assuming it would be 1,300
employees, and then ten years from now, which is what the vesting period is
supposed to be, they will not really know how many employees there are,
noting it could be as many as 2,000, with a phenomenal impact on traffic.
Mr. Ford felt it was important to understand there was no causal
relationship for the increase or decrease of traffic congestion because of
the existence of a TSM Program. He pointed out a TSM Program has various
factors, but you have to force the employees to use the program, and
stating that we have traffic congestion, and we are hoping the employees
will use the TSM Program, is of absolutely no assistance whatsoever. He
stated this point was brought up in the Development Agreement on Page 120,
citing, "If Phase I buildings are ready for occupancy prior to completion
of the Second Street improvements, referenced herein, the City agrees to
permit occupancy of the Fair, Isaac buildings, Phase I, provided that Fair,
Isaac commits to provide and implement a plan of TSM for any interim period
while construction of the widening of Second Street is being completed,
which will, to the City's reasonable assurance, maintain a General Plan
Level of Service for that intersection of Second and Hetherton Streets".
Mr. Ford stated there was a major, glaring fault there, noting there should
be a stipulated LOS. He stated, to his knowledge, after reading the EIR,
all intersections in Downtown San Rafael are grandfathered at Level of
Service E, so if it goes to Level E or F, or below, then that would cause
the TSM. He felt, in order to have clarity, it should be required that we
note what would trigger a TSM, and what Level of Service it must denigrate
to.
Mr. Ford stated he also had concerns regarding the issue of when the Use
Permit is going to be imposed, and from what starting point. He noted it
was apparently only after one year of occupancy of Phase I that there would
be an analysis of the traffic, but he felt that to wait one year after the
occupancy of Phase I was too long, noting an analysis of the occupancy and
traffic implications should be looked at after 60 or 90 days. He asked why
we had to wait one year? He referred to Page 104, Paragraph B, which
states, "One year following completion and occupancy of Phase II, an
identical parking report, as required by 3-A above, shall be prepared and
submitted to the Community Redevelopment Department". He noted that when
he reads this, there seems to be a very nebulous aspect as to what would
happen at the time the report was done, and asked, "if there is
disagreement between Fair, Isaac and the City concerning the traffic
implications, what would be the result?"
Mr. Ford addressed the fees to be paid by Fair, Isaac, citing $211,000 for
the Lindaro Street improvements, $111,000 for the eleven foot turn, and 79%
of the widening improvements, for a total of $793,218. In reading this
section of the report, Mr. Ford pointed out he could not find what would
happen if there were cost overruns, nor could he come to a conclusion as to
how these numbers were arrived at. He asked what the remedy would be,
should there be disputes about this later on?
Referring to the Corporation Yard, Mr. Ford noted the Development Agreement
states the City and Fair, Isaac would work with each other to assure there
is proper control in turning over that property from the Redevelopment
Agency to Fair, Isaac. He believed there were distinct similarities
between this and earlier discussion with St. Vincent's, in putting the
"cart before the horse". He reported, to his knowledge, the City had not
yet found a new Corporation Yard, and although the City may want to get the
$2.1 million in the City coffers, he felt it would be productive and
prudent to find a site first, get neighborhood approval for the relocation
of the Corporation yard, and then, and only then, should the City talk
about turning over the Corporation Yard to Fair, Isaac.
Sue Beittel, resident of San Rafael, stated she believed this was a very
good project, in a good location, and was the kind of project the City had
thought about many years ago when we wanted to improve the tax base in San
Rafael, again in the early 1970's when we set up the Redevelopment Agency,
and a third time when we did the Downtown Plan. She pointed out it is a
transit oriented development, and has a very aggressive TSM. She noted a
Transportation Plan is being developed, with Fair, Isaac representing the
larger employers, through Steven Gale, in funding that work, and they hope
to be able to pass something in November, which will significantly improve
public transit to the Transportation Station in Downtown San Rafael. She
believed this could be improved even further, and referred to a recent
article in the newspaper, which reported one of ten workers in Santa Clara
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County could soon receive an offer of free transit passes, which might
entice them out of their cars and onto County busses and trains. She
stated this could be a significant measure to change behavior, which she
believed was what we really had to do to make Downtown work better. She
stated this was something she had been working on for a long time, and
hoped for Council's support.
Ms. Beittel
best access
able to get
referred to the proposed community room, and noted it has the
she knows of to public transit, which means more people will be
to it and use it. She pointed out there are a significant
number of people, both
cars.
young and old, and the disabled, who cannot drive
Elissa Giambastiani, President of the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce,
stated she was very excited about the project having reached this point,
noting the Chamber has wholeheartedly supported the Fair, Isaac
development, because of all the benefits it brings to our community. She
stated one of the least attractive parcels in the Downtown was now going to
be replaced with a very attractive, well designed office complex. She
reported she had been on the Vision Committee, the Keepers of the Flame,
and stated this was the Vision they had wanted, noting this project would
bring the community's Vision for the Lindaro district to fruition. She
reported the committee had been presented with several proposals for the
property, including "big box" retail, which they rejected in the belief
that a quality office project would be developed. She stated we have that
in the Fair, Office project.
Referring to the Building Height Bonus and the Community Facility Use, she
stated it was entirely appropriate to give this bonus, because of what the
community is getting in exchange. She noted when they first discussed
having community usage on the site with the Vision Committee, they asked
staff what kinds of bonuses could be given. She explained they wanted this
community use because of the lack of space in the Downtown, noting almost
10,000 square feet will be provided, which will be a wonderful resource for
the community. She noted the Vision Committee also discussed having an
outdoor performance space, in back near the creek, and now there will be a
19,000 square foot lawn amphitheater, plus an additional 14,000 square feet
in the central plaza. She pointed out this was definitely a great
community plus.
Ms. Giambastiani stated much time has been spent talking about parking and
traffic with this project; however, the traffic issues had been well
addressed, the mitigations, including the widening of Second Street and
establishing the parking reserve, had been well studied, and the entire
area was going to benefit from these improvements. Ms. Giambastiani noted
people tend to think that every employee coming to Fair, Isaac is going to
be driving solo, in a single -occupant vehicle, and every employee is going
to be coming at 9:00 AM and leaving at 5:00 PM; however, she stated that
was not the way this company operates, pointing out she did not think
anyone there works from just 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. In addition, she stated
not all of the employees are going to be coming from the north, noting that
was one of the reasons Fair, Isaac wanted to be here; therefore, the idea
that we are going to have a huge crush of people coming down in the
morning, and a huge crush of people go back north again, is not going to
happen. She believed the project's proximity to the Transportation Center
was one of the things that drew the company to this location, and reported
they plan to have a shuttle bus going from the north campus to the Downtown
campus; they will have bicycles available for the employees to use during
the day; they have set up a telecommuting center in Petaluma, and have
begun a carpooling survey among their employees.
Ms. Giambastiani stated that when the City's General Plan Revision is
completed, it will include, hopefully, an economic element so that economic
impacts can be weighed, along with traffic and environmental
considerations. She pointed out we do not have that at this point, but
even though the element is not in place, she believed we had to consider
the positive economic impacts this project will have. She reported we would
be creating another 1,200 jobs, most of them high -paying; we are going to
bring more customers into the Downtown to support our Downtown retailers;
the company intends to use as many local vendors as possible; and Fair,
Isaac's business is not going to compete with any of the merchants in the
Fourth Street Retail Core, which was one of the concerns the Chamber had
regarding the development of this site.
Ms. Giambastiani stated Fair, Isaac has proven to be a wonderful community
asset, and a leading corporate citizen, who has shown extreme sensitivity
to citizen and environmental concerns. She believed it was a great
project, and a perfect location, and urged Council to approve the
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Resolutions so the project can get started.
There being no further public comment, Vice -Mayor Phillips closed the
public hearing.
Councilmember Heller asked for clarification on the use of the community
facility, asking if it would be available only for City government? She
also questioned whether 10:00 PM would be a firm closing time for special
events, noting often times meetings run later than that hour, and she had a
bit of a problem in looking at that as a firm closing time. Cecilia
Bridges referred first to the closing time, noting the rules that have been
included may end up changing; however, she explained the closing time was
included because, unlike the Council Chamber, which may not be used early
in the morning, every morning, the community facility is a private facility
during the day, noting it is the conference center that Fair, Isaac will
use to train the people who purchase the software. She stated it has been
Fair, Isaac's experience to be flexible when they can; however, she
believed setting that guideline for people was a good idea, so they do not
regularly expect to have Midnight usage, and then ask Fair, Isaac's
employees to work until 3:00 AM to clean something up in order to get it
ready for 8:00 AM the next morning. Councilmember Heller stated she was
thinking more about the time restriction on the weekends, pointing out it
does specify 10:00 PM on the weekends, as well as weekdays, and she felt
there should be a little flexibility. Ms. Bridges agreed, noting that in
talking with the directors of the facility on "B" Street and at Falkirk,
they expected to learn along the way.
Vice -Mayor Phillips noted the Council had not yet seen those guidelines,
and asked if they would be given to Council for approval at a later date,
or if this was something that would be handled at staff level? Ms. Bridges
stated Council had been given the guidelines as of February 3rd; however,
questions had arisen at the Planning Commission regarding liability, and
after also talking to the directors of the City's facilities, they realized
there were other guidelines they probably needed to add. Therefore, the
provision is that a copy of the guidelines will be filed with the Community
Development Department, and it was anticipated that any time there is a
significant change to those, they will be re -filed, so there is always a
current set of guidelines available to the public. Councilmember Heller
asked about the government use? Ms. Bridges stated the Condition had been
changed, as described earlier by Ms. Delimont, to include the City of San
Rafael and other governments, as long as the issues relate to the City of
San Rafael. Ms. Delimont pointed out this was listed as Condition #2 on
Page 103, and the change was noted in bold print. Ms. Bridges explained
they had already added that the use by governmental agencies would be
permitted if the function or event is related to a San Rafael issue or
activity. She noted what they were trying to eliminate were the other un-
named governmental agencies, who might not have a nice place to meet, from
deciding it might be nice to come down and meet at Fair, Isaac's every
month.
Councilmember Heller referred to the TSM, and asked if the company might
aggressively look at adding the Park and Ride lots to their shuttle
service? She felt this could pick up a lot of cars, and pointed out most
of the Park and Ride lots are not used to their fullest capacity. Ms.
Bridges stated one of the things Fair, Isaac does is to survey their
employees before they take an action, and noted if, in a survey of
employees, they found that stopping at the Park and Ride lots would be
helpful, that was what they would do.
Councilmember Cohen stated his understanding of the Parking Contingency
Plan was a proposal to add another bay onto the parking structure proposed
for the Corporation Yard site, if that proves to be necessary, and asked if
this was correct? Ms. Bridges stated it was, pointing out the additional
bay would be approximately 51 feet long. Mr. Cohen noted long ago the City
decided it would rather see some kind of development on this site that was
of greater community benefit than acres of parking for people coming from
outside San Rafael, and taking transit to somewhere else outside San
Rafael. He still believed that was the right way to go on this, and it did
occur to him, in thinking about this after the EIR, that should it prove
the parking was not necessary for the project, as ultimately used by Fair,
Isaac, and if the potential existed to build 135 spaces, there might be
some time in the future when some other public policy body might decide we
should add more parking around the Transit Center. He felt it was worthy
of discussion at this phase of the project, rather than later, perhaps ten
years from now, and then wishing we had planned for that possibility. He
asked if, at some point in the future, there would be the possibility of
discussing perhaps adding those 135 spaces at someone else's expense, and
separating them from Fair, Isaac's parking?
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Ms. Bridges stated one thing that needed to be clarified when thinking
about the decision to add additional spaces to this parking structure was
that you do not build the parking structure, and then add the spaces later;
the decision is made, and the building is built with the additional spaces.
She explained the parking structure itself is not set up so you could just
add an additional 51 feet at some future time, it has to be incorporated
into the plan when the structure is built; therefore, the decision had to
be made whether to build the structure with the additional spaces or
without them. Ms. Bridges also pointed out one of the most important
considerations to the Fair, Isaac employees was Fair, Isaac's way of doing
a survey and asking their opinions. She reported when Fair, Isaac decided
to go to this site, they asked their employees if they had any concerns
about this, noting the employees had been very upfront about their
concerns. She stated one of their concerns was to make sure the parking
was secured, noting many of them do not want to walk out into a parking
garage at 10:00 PM and wonder who is out there. She reported the employees
have stated security is very important to them and, therefore, it is very
important to the management of Fair, Isaac. She stated if, at some time,
it was determined there was no need for the spaces, if they had already
been built, and if there was no need for security, then it would be time to
discuss whether something different should be done with the spaces;
however, at this point Fair, Isaac has no projections that indicate any of
those three things would take place, and they could not agree to anything,
based on those things they do not believe will happen.
Councilmember Cohen stated he did not understand the Parking Contingency
Plan. He noted he understood Ms. Bridges last point, and could respect
that; however, he felt it might be possible to address the security
concerns. He noted, on balance, he would certainly rather see this project
than 135 parking spaces serving the Transportation Center. However, it was
his understanding of the Parking Contingency Plan that the City had the
right to review the adequacy of the parking on an ongoing basis and, in
fact, the Use Permit Conditions state the City may, at any time, require
review of the on-site parking. He noted the language the Council was being
asked to approve states, "The City can require review and study of the on-
site parking at any time. If, during this periodic review and study, it is
determined additional parking is warranted, the City can require the
project sponsor to implement the approved Parking Contingency Plan". He
noted it did not state "prior to construction of Phase II", it states, "at
any time". He pointed out it also calls for monitoring to take place one
year after occupancy of Phase I, and when they are at occupancy of Phase
II; therefore, it appeared the City reserved the right, in the future, to
require the additional parking be constructed to serve this office campus.
He stated, in this case, the applicant is proposing a parking standard
that is less than the City has generally required, and the City is agreeing
to that, in return for the applicant allowing the City the right to
evaluate that on an ongoing basis, and if, at some point in the future, it
appears from the City's review that Fair, Isaac's proposed standard is not
adequate, then the City can require the applicant to build or provide the
additional spaces. Ms. Bridges stated it was Fair, Isaac's understanding
that the decision would be made before they design and build the parking
structure on the Corporation Yard, because that is how that structure had
to be built, noting it is not an add-on.
Interim Community Development Director Sheila Delimont reported the way the
Condition is worded does provide for the Parking Contingency Plan, noting
it had been proposed during the public hearings that this was a solution to
the parking problem, and while they have indicated there is a problem with
the construction phasing of this, the Use Permit is worded to provide
ongoing monitoring. If, at some point, there is a deficiency, the City
would still have the right, if additional parking was not feasible, for
Fair, Isaac to come up with another solution at that point in time. Senior
Planner Katie Korzun stated the idea was that after the first phase was
built and the parking was in, there would be an evaluation of the number of
spaces per employee, and that would be the decision point as to whether or
not the Contingency Plan would be implemented. She stated if it was found
they needed more parking, the City would require that they build the
additional spaces, and we would continue to monitor. She noted that if, at
that first point, the City found they did not need additional parking, we
would still check up on them in the future. Ms. Korzun stated that after
Phase II is built, if it looks like more parking is needed, Fair, Isaac
would have to do something, but it would be back before Council to
determine what that "something" would be. Ms. Delimont pointed out that
"something" could be the implementation of a much more stringent TSM
program, to bring them back within the required parking; however, if that
were not feasible, they would have to find additional parking. Ms.
Delimont stated staff felt that after the Phase I construction they would
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have a very good handle on what their requirements are, because they will
be in operation at that point.
David Israel, Project Architect, stated that from their perspective, that
was the approach they had anticipated, explaining that should Phase I show
that a higher parking need is necessary, they would make the decision to
build -out to the City's standard of 3.3 per thousand, for the total build-
out in Phase II, should the survey show that to be necessary. Should it
not show that to be necessary, they would make a decision at that point in
time as to whether they are going to go forward with the additional parking
or not. If they did choose to build -out, and to continue to build that 3
per thousand, then they would do whatever methodology they felt was
necessary to make sure their needs stay below the monitoring requirement.
Mr. Israel pointed out a diagram of the modified Lincoln Avenue building,
noting it shows the inclusion of an additional story on the southernmost
end, as well as the additional length. He stated it would be possible to
do this, once the garage is in place; however, the additional cost for
oversizing the foundations, and the destruction to the uses, would be very
problematic in this type of facility, because it has a continuous ramp
system, and it would be destructive to the flow. Mr. Israel stated it had
never been Fair, Isaac's anticipation to have a situation where they would
need to add in the future, rather they would make that decision after the
first phase monitoring had been completed, and that decision point would
carry them forward.
Councilmember Cohen pointed out that was not what the actual language
stated which Council was being asked to approve, and he felt the Council
should understand what it is they are approving. Citing Page 82 of the
staff report, he quoted, "Prior to issuance of a building permit for Phase
I, an alternative Parking Contingency Plan shall be prepared and submitted,
which provides on-site parking for both Phase I and Phase II, at a ratio of
one space per 300 gross square feet of office area", and continued, "The
Parking Contingency Plan shall remain on file with the City for the purpose
of serving as a parking reserve. Implementation of the Parking Contingency
Plan may be required by the City, if it is determined after occupancy of
Phase I or Phase II, that additional parking is warranted". Mr. Cohen
stated he understood this to mean a future City Council could come along
and tell Fair, Isaac their parking is insufficient, and require them to
implement their Parking Contingency Plan, which calls for them to build
additional spaces. Mr. Cohen stated if this was not everyone's
understanding of the language, he would like to have explained how he was
misreading it; however, if that is the understanding, then he wanted to
make sure everyone agreed. Mr. Cohen noted he did not believe this was
going to happen, and he was willing to believe the City could agree on an
alterative set of proposals that would otherwise mitigate the parking
requirement, if it came to that, and building the additional spaces was
prohibitive. However, the language before Council tonight clearly states
the City has the right to require Fair, Isaac to build those additional
spaces, after occupancy of Phase II, and he felt we needed to resolve this.
Ms. Bridges acknowledged Mr. Cohen had brought up a good point, noting they
had all been working with this so closely, and known the intent of its
meaning, noting it was one of those situations where they all knew what
they thought it meant, and had not been reading with a critical eye. She
believed it would be possible to solve this by asking staff to add
clarification that at the Phase II stage, if it is determined the parking
does not meet the City's standard, then that inadequacy or shortfall could
be accomplished by providing spaces, or other methods to reduce parking
demand. Ms. Bridges believed the reason for the confusion was because they
all thought that after Phase I was built, they would have, through
monitoring, a very good understanding of the parking demand. She
acknowledged their understanding of this was somewhat tainted by the fact
that they believed their parking demand was actually lower, and they
believed the numbers would actually be lower. However, at the end of
construction of the first two buildings, they did expect to have clear
demand figures to tell them whether to add the spaces or not, as an
economic decision. She stated if Council would be satisfied with the
additional clarification in the language, she felt that would address Phase
II.
Vice -Mayor Phillips asked if Council could be assured, and perhaps have
confirmed by staff, that Phase II operations are similar, that is,
reflective of the operations of Phase I? Ms. Bridges stated the use was
the same, and Ms. Delimont reported it would be the same parking demand.
Ms. Korzun cited the Conditions of the Use Permit on Page 103, quoting,
"One year following completion or occupancy of Phase I, a report on the
adequacy of the parking will be prepared and submitted to the Community
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Development Department. The report will be prepared by a licensed Traffic
Engineer, and will analyze parking use, occupancy, and vacancy, and present
recommendations on the contingency measures and/or the need for
implementing the Parking Contingency Plan. One year following completion
of Phase II, an identical parking report, as required above, will be
prepared and submitted to the Community Development Department". Ms.
Korzun stated those Conditions, linked together, do what staff and the
applicant thought they had done, which is to address the
timing and what would go on. However, she stated if Council did not agree
that it does that, she agreed with Ms. Delimont that staff could add
additional language to clarify the issue.
Councilmember Cohen stated it still read to him, under this language, that
the City could come back one year after Phase II and demand implementation
of the Parking Contingency Plan. He stated rather than trying to rewrite
this with a "Go" or "No go" decision prior to Phase II, he felt the
language called for preparation of a Parking Contingency Plan, noting we do
not know exactly what that is yet. He pointed out one way this has been
described was the ability to construct an additional 135 parking spaces, so
the ratio would equal the City's baseline, as opposed to what is proposed
by the applicant. He felt it might also be possible to incorporate into
the Parking Contingency Plan other ways for Fair, Isaac to guarantee they
would get parking demand to match the parking that is being proposed. Ms.
Bridges stated that was what she had tried to propose in the language she
suggested, so at Phase II it could be addressed not just with spaces, but
with additional measures.
Vice -Mayor Phillips noted it sounded as though staff and the applicant were
at the same place with regard to this issue, and asked Ms. Delimont to
propose additional language. Ms. Delimont referred to that section on Page
82, 22-C which states, "Alternative Parking Contingency Plans shall be
prepared and submitted, which provide on-site parking for both Phase I and
Phase II, at a ratio of one space per 300 gross square feet of building
area". She felt we needed to add the wording, "or an alternative Plan
which reduces the need for the available parking on-site", and then
continue, "The Plan shall be accompanied by a scheduled timeframe for
implementing additional parking, or parking reduction methods". She stated
this would allow the flexibility of either providing the parking on-site,
or altering the TSM Program to meet the available parking. Mr. Phillips
asked for City Manager Gould's reaction to this suggestion? Mr. Gould
stated the wording would be consistent with what staff had believed they
negotiated with Fair, Isaac, but had not clarified in the original
language. Councilmember Cohen noted this meant there would also have to be
a change to the Use Permit, as well, stating Fair, Isaac would either
provide additional spaces, or prove to the City they could reduce the
demand to meet the parking spaces actually provided. Ms. Korzun noted the
Use Permit actually states the Parking Contingency Plan was required to
present a parking
landscape reserve, and/or revisions to the parking layout of the parking
structures. She noted staff could add the phrase, "Reduction of overall
parking demand" at the bottom of Page 3-C.2. Councilmember Cohen referred
to 3-D, which also needed to be changed to read, "If the City determines
the Plan must be implemented, additional parking shall be installed within
the timeframe, or other measures must be taken to reduce demand on the
available parking".
Vice -Mayor Phillips asked if there were any other sections that would be
impacted by this? City Attorney Ragghianti stated there were. He noted
Subparagraph (e) on Page 104 needed to contain the same modification;
therefore, staff would modify Page 83, Paragraph 22-C; and also Page 104,
Subparagraphs (d) and (e), each of which talk about the Parking Contingency
Plan. Vice -Mayor Phillips stated he was a little uncomfortable with the
changes just made, although he did want to proceed. He asked City Attorney
Ragghianti if Council could act on this now, and if staff later discovers
there are other sections that are impacted, could they then come back and
add to those sections, if necessary? City Attorney Ragghianti stated they
could, noting he felt when the time came for Council to actually vote on a
particular motion, they should be sensitive to incorporating the changes
that had been articulated, so staff can bring back, if necessary, the final
language after they have had a chance to refine it, and insert it into
these various approvals. However, he stated there was no reason Council
could not act at this time. Ms. Bridges suggested also including the
statement, "These sections are to be changed, and any other sections that
should also appropriately and similarly be changed", which would allow
staff and Fair, Isaac a final check to make sure they have caught
everything.
Councilmember Miller referred to Councilmember Cohen's speculation of
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 14
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 15
adding public parking around the Transit Center, stating he felt that would
be an additional problem rather than a solution. He noted he would rather
see the solution, as Ms. Beittel suggested, in terms of the transit system
itself.
Councilmember Cohen stated there had been several public comments regarding
the EIR, and asked about the issue that had been raised regarding impact
during construction, and the allegation that, somehow, the City had failed
to consider or mitigate the impacts during construction.
Matthew Ridgeway, of Robert Bein, William Frost & Associates, speaking for
Laura Forbes, noted the issue had been raised about the impacts of
construction on Second Street, and he felt there was a distinction to be
made between the impacts of construction on the project, and the impacts of
construction of the improvements on Second Street. He pointed out the
improvements on Second Street were slated as part of the General Plan, and
were not associated with the project. However, he stated it was important
to note that as a mitigation for construction in Beckswith's project, they
have required a detailed construction staging plan, prior to the issuance
of building permits.
Public Works Director Bernardi responded to the construction of the roadway
itself, noting prior to this meeting Council approved a contract with an
engineering firm to look at the staging of the widening of Second Street,
and to put together the plans and specifications for that particular
project. He reported they would now begin to do that, and analyze the
impacts of the construction as it relates to the traffic on Second Street.
He noted, clearly, we would have to keep in mind that when one end of the
road is under construction, not to have the contractor out there between
7:00 AM and 9:00 AM, or 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, whatever staff determines the
time to be. He stated staff also wants to have the contractor stage the
work so he does not have the entire length of Second Street torn up at one
time, noting he would have to work in some progressive manner. Mr.
Bernardi stated this would be arrived at when they prepare the plan
specifications, noting he could report back to Council with this staging
plan, when staff asks for authorization to call for bids.
Councilmember Cohen noted the point was also raised that while there is
conceptual discussion of the number of employees, there are no limits or
controls on the number of employees. He stated it was his understanding
that in the mitigations they have been discussing, we were mitigating the
impacts, and it would not matter to the City how many employees Fair, Isaac
had at the site, as long as the impacts were within the range the City
considered within the EIR, Use Permit, and Design Conditions. Ms. Delimont
stated that was correct, noting both the traffic generation and the parking
demand were based on gross square footage, not on the number of employees.
She stated it would be very difficult to enforce a cap on the number of
employees, and it would serve no useful purpose; therefore, staff would not
recommend that.
Councilmember Cohen noted Council was going to be asked to make a Finding
regarding a Statement of Overriding Considerations, with regard to
significant cumulative, unavoidable impacts on US 101, and he felt they
should discuss this, so there was no question of Council having fully
considered this in their decision to take action. Ms. Delimont reported
that when the EIR was certified, there was a detailed description of the
potential impacts on Highway 101, noting that goes beyond the ability of
the applicant to mitigate. She pointed out it is a regional problem that
needs to be resolved, and the Statement of Overriding Considerations
provides the economic and community benefits which override that
significant impact. She noted Matthew Ridgeway could provide additional
details if Council wished more information. Councilmember Cohen noted if
he understood correctly, given the current status of Highway 101, virtually
any project that is approved contributes to that problem. Ms. Delimont
stated that was correct, noting when staff looked at the General Plan they
looked at the cumulative impact of the build -out on Highway 101. She
pointed out that because this is a large project, it rises to a level of
significance, but every development that comes through in San Rafael has a
cumulative impact, noting that goes for every project in the County.
Vice -Mayor Phillips noted a question had been raised because the Level of
Service had not been indicated, and asked if that was something that should
be included? Ms. Delimont stated the Development Agreement does not
specifically state the Level of Service standard, but it is shown as
Condition 25 on Page 85 of the Conditions of Approval on the Design Review
Permit, stating, "If the project is ready for occupancy prior to completion
of the Second Street improvements, the City will conduct a traffic analysis
to determine the existing Level of Service for the Second and Hetherton
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 15
a.
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 16
Streets intersection, the cumulative Level of Service for existing
conditions plus project, plus other projects approved by the City that are
not built or occupied. If the traffic analysis determines that the General
Plan adopted Level of Service E standard at the Second and Hetherton Street
intersection can be maintained with project occupancy, then building
occupancy shall be granted by the City". Vice -Mayor Phillips asked if she
was satisfied that issue was covered? Ms. Delimont stated she was, noting
if the Level of Service is not maintained, then the City would implement
the TSM, so it will meet Level of Service E. Therefore, it is definitely
in the Conditions of Approval to guarantee that the General Plan standard
can be maintained, and there is a standard for TSM for occupancy.
Ms. Bridges referred to Page 121 of the Development Agreement, noting it
states, "Maintain General Plan Level of Service standards", and while it
does not specify what that is, it refers to "General Plan" as an adjective,
describing the Level of Service standards. Therefore, one would go to the
General Plan to find that.
Vice -Mayor Phillips referred to Cost Overruns on Page 84, asking if there
were any issues Council should be concerned about? City Manager Gould
reported that as part of the City's negotiations on the Development
Agreement, the City would incur any cost overruns on the widening of Second
Street, and the traffic mitigation fees that would be paid are being off-
set by the additional commitments to do the General Plan improvements of
$1.2 million. He stated this would cap Fair, Isaac's contribution to the
traffic improvements along Second Street, and additional costs would be
borne by the City. Public Works Director Bernardi noted the City has
collected other Traffic Mitigation Fees for General Plan projects, so if
the project is overrun, the extra costs come out of the Traffic Mitigation
Fees we already have in the bank.
Councilmember Heller noted there had been a question regarding a site for
the new Corporation Yard, and asked if the City was looking at several
different sites, and would make a decision at some point in the future?
Mr. Bernardi stated staff was working on that issue now, and were
investigating sites, noting he and Economic Development Director Ours have
had discussions concerning this. Mr. Ours noted that after Council
certified the environmental documents, he and Mr. Bernardi went to the
Marin Municipal Water District and had a very successful first discussion
regarding a joint use Corporation Yard on ten acres on Pelican Way. He
reported those discussions are underway, noting he had spoken with staff at
the Water District, and they were receptive to the City's ideas.
Councilmember Cohen noted the City had at one time discussed a joint
venture with the City's schools, and as he recalled about this particular
site, it was anticipated it would also accommodate their needs, as well.
Mr. Ours stated that was correct. Mr. Gould pointed out this could perhaps
offer us a chance to share the facilities, as well as staffing.
Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Heller seconded, to adopt the
Resolution approving a Statement of Findings and Fact of Overriding
Considerations, and Mitigating and Monitoring Program.
RESOLUTION 10024 -
RESOLUTION APPROVING A STATEMENT OF FINDINGS AND FACT
OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS AND APPROVAL OF THE
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM FOR THE
406,000 SQUARE FOOT FAIR, ISAAC OFFICE PARK
DEVELOPMENT ON 15 PLUS ACRES LOCATED SOUTH OF SECOND
STREET, AND FRONTING LINDARO STREET AND LINCOLN
AVENUE (RE: FORMER PG&E SERVICE CENTER SITE AND CITY
OF SAN RAFAEL CORPORATION YARD) AP #13-012-120
(PORTION), 13-021-100 AND 13-021-190.
AYES:
COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller & Vice -Mayor
Phillips
NOES:
COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT/DISQUALIFIED:
COUNCILMEMBERS: Mayor Boro (due to conflict of
interest).
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY
OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTED BY REFERENCE BY SECTION 14.01.020 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA, SO AS TO RECLASSIFY CERTAIN REAL
PROPERTY FROM PD (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT) DISTRICT TO PD (PLANNED DEVELOPMENT)
DISTRICT FOR THE FAIR, ISAAC OFFICE PARK MASTER PLAN (RE: ZC-97-2, FAIR,
ISAAC OFFICE PARK, SECOND STREET, LINDARO STREET, AND LINCOLN AVENUE; AP
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 16
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 17
NOS. 13-012-120 (PORTION), 13-021-100 AND 13-021-190)"
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Miller seconded, to dispense
with the reading of the Ordinance in its entirety, and refer to it by title
only, and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1721 to print, by the following vote,
to wit:
AYES:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT/DISQUALIFIED: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Cohen, Heller, Miller & Vice -Mayor
Phillips
None
Mayor Boro (due to conflict of
interest).
C. Councilmember Cohen moved and Councilmember Miller seconded, to adopt the
Resolution approving an Environmental and Design Review Permit, a Tentative
Map, and a Use Permit, with the modifications as discussed, and other
modifications as staff determines them to be necessary, consistent with the
discussion that either additional parking will be provided on-site, or an
alternative plan that reduces the parking demand to the parking actually
provided, will be presented in the Parking Contingency Plan.
M
e
RESOLUTION NO. 10025 - RESOLUTION CONDITIONALLY APPROVING AN
ENVIRONMENT AND DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT, TENTATIVE MAP
AND USE PERMIT FOR THE 406,000 SQUARE FOOT FAIR,
ISAAC OFFICE PARK DEVELOPMENT ON 15 PLUS ACRES
LOCATED SOUTH OF SECOND STREET, AND FRONTING LINDARO
STREET & LINCOLN AVENUE (RE: FORMER PG&E SERVICE
CENTER SITE AND CITY OF SAN RAFAEL CORPORATION YARD)
AP NOS. 13-012-120 (PORTION), 13-021-100 AND 13-021-
190 (WITH MODIFICATIONS AS DETERMINED NECESSARY TO
PROVIDE THAT ADDITIONAL PARKING WILL BE PROVIDED ON-
SITE, OR AN ALTERNATIVE PLAN THAT REDUCES THE PARKING
DEMAND TO THE PARKING ACTUALLY PROVIDED, TO BE
PRESENTED IN THE PARKING CONTINGENCY PLAN).
AYES:
COUNCILMEMBERS: Cohen, Heller, Miller & Vice -Mayor
Phillips
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT/DISQUALIFIED: COUNCILMEMBERS: Mayor Boro (due to conflict of
interest).
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL APPROVING THE DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
FOR THE FAIR, ISAAC OFFICE PARK PROJECT, SECOND STREET, LINDARO STREET AND
LINCOLN AVENUE; AP NOS. 13-012-120 (PORTION), 13-021-100 AND 13-021-190).
CITY FILE NO. DA -97-1"
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Cohen seconded, to dispense
with the reading of the Ordinance in its entirety, and refer to it by title
only, and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1722 to print, by the following vote,
to wit:
AYES:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT/DISQUALIFIED: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Cohen, Heller, Miller & Vice -Mayor
Phillips
None
Mayor Boro (due to conflict of
interest).
Councilmember Heller moved and Councilmember Miller seconded, to adopt the
Resolution authorizing the Vice -Mayor to Execute the Development Agreement.
RESOLUTION NO. 10026 - RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SIGNING OF A
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FOR THE FAIR, ISAAC OFFICE PARK
PROJECT (SECOND STREET, LINDARO STREET AND LINCOLN
AVENUE).
AYES:
COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT/DISQUALIFIED: COUNCILMEMBERS:
Cohen, Heller, Miller & Vice -Mayor
Phillips
None
Mayor Boro (due to conflict of
interest).
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 17
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 18
14. MONTHLY REPORT:
City Manager's Report (CM)
This report was not given, due to the lateness of the hour.
15. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
None.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 11:50 PM.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF
1998
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
SRCC MINUTES (Regular) 2/17/98 Page 18