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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2008-02-04SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 1 IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2008 AT 8:00 P.M. Regular Meeting: Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor Cyr N. Miller, Vice -Mayor San Rafael City Council Greg Brockbank, Councilmember Damon Connolly, Councilmember Barbara Heller, Councilmember Absent: None Also Present: Jim Schutz, Assistant City Manager Robert F. Epstein, City Attorney Esther C. Beirne, City Clerk OPEN SESSION — COUNCIL CHAMBER — 7:00 PM Mayor Boro announced Closed Session items. CLOSED SESSION — CONFERENCE ROOM 201 - 7:00 PM 1. a) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Government Code Section 54956.9(a) Case Name: MHC Financing, et al. v. Citv of San Rafael, et al. U.S. District Court, Northern Dist. of CA, Case # C003785 b) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation Government Code Section 54956.9(a) Case Name: MHC Financinq, et al. v. Citv of San Rafael, et al. (MHC II) U.S. District Court, Northern Dist. of CA, Case # C043325 City Attorney Robert Epstein announced that no reportable action was taken. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE: 8:13 PM a) Plastics Reduction: - File 13-1 x 9-1 Stuart Moodv, Green Sangha, San Rafael Clean and Sustainable San Rafael, following on the momentum of the Sustainable San Rafael meeting on Thursday, January 24, 2008, concerning zero waste, proposed that the City take a serious look at plastics reduction as a key element in its Green Initiative, and indicated he would be happy to serve on a committee that evaluated plastics reduction. Mayor Boro suggested that this could be considered subsequent to formation of the Climate Change Action Plan groups, which would be discussed later this evening. b) Camoaian Finance Reform: - File 9-4 x 9-1 Proposing public financing of local campaigns, Jonathan Frieman stated he believed this to be the most effective way of neutralizing independent expenditures. He invited all to attend a presentation on the subject at the National Women's Political Caucus Dinner on Monday, February 11, at 6:00 p.m. at Ping's Restaurant. c) Peak Oil: - File 13-1 x 9-1 Noting the availability of easily accessible oil was nearing an end, which would have a dramatic effect on the economy, Jonathan Frieman stated it was very important to include the intersection of Peak Oil with Climate Change. Mr. Frieman indicated he was working on reading material related to both these issues. SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 1 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 2 CONSENT CALENDAR: Councilmember Connolly moved and Councilmember Brockbank seconded, to approve the Consent Calendar, as follows: ITEM 2. Approval of Minutes of Regular Meeting of January 22, 2008 (CC) 3. Passing to Print and Setting Public Hearing for Tuesday, February 19, 2008 for Consideration of an Ordinance Amending San Rafael Municipal Code Section 6.10.010 to Adopt by Reference the Animal Control Regulations Contained in Title 8 of the Marin County Code as Recently Amended, with Appropriate Local Modifications, and Amending Section 6.10.050 to Prescribe Penalties for Animal Control Regulation Violations Ordinance Amending San Rafael Municipal Code Section 6.10.010 to Adopt by Reference the Animal Control Regulations Contained in Title 8 of the Marin County Code as Recently Amended, with Appropriate Local Modifications, and Section 6.10.050 Prescribing Penalties for Animal Control Regulation Violations (and Settinq Public Hearing for Tuesday. February 19, 2008) (CM) — File 4-13-54 x 13-3 4. Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the Contract with Emanuels Jones & Associates for Legislative Advocacy Services on Behalf of the Marin County Council of Mayors and Councilmembers (CM) — File 4-3-354 x 113 x 9-3-11 5. Resolution of Appreciation for Cindy Fox, Child Care Director, Employee of the Quarter Ending December 31, 2007 (CS) — File 102 x 9-3-65 RECOMMENDED ACTION Minutes approved as submitted. Passed Ordinance No. 1865 to print - and set Public Hearing for Tuesday, February 19, 2008. RESOLUTION NO. 12421 - RESOLUTION APPROVING AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE AN AGREEMENT WITH EMANUELS JONES & ASSOCIATES FOR LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE MARIN COUNTY COUNCIL OF MAYORS AND COUNCILMEMBERS FOR THE PERIOD OF JANUARY 1, 2008 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $69,800 (amended from $68,500) RESOLUTION NO. 12422 - RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION FOR CINDY FOX, CHILD CARE DIRECTOR, EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2007 6. Resolution Authorizing the Use of State of California RESOLUTION NO. 12423 - 9-1-1 Emergency Communications Office Funding of RESOLUTION APPROVING THE USE OF $19,453.49 in Residual Funds for the Fiscal Year RESIDUAL FUNDING IN AN AMOUNT 2007-2008 (PD) — File 9-3-30 NOT TO EXCEED $19,453.49 FROM THE CALIFORNIA STATE 9-1-1 EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE 7. Resolution Authorizing the Temporary Closure of City RESOLUTION NO. 12424 - Streets for the Weekly Downtown Farmers' Market RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE Festival on Thursday Evenings from April 3 — TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF CITY September 25, 2008 (RA) — File l l-19 STREETS FOR THE WEEKLY SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 2 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 3 DOWNTOWN FARMERS' MARKET FESTIVAL ON THURSDAY EVENINGS FROM APRIL 3 — SEPTEMBER 25, 2008 AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Brockbank, Connolly, Heller, Miller and Mayor Boro NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None SPECIAL PRESENTATION: 8. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION TO CINDY FOX, CHILD CARE DIRECTOR, EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2007 (CS) — FILE 102 x 9-3-65 Mayor Boro explained that each quarter employees select an Employee of the Quarter who is honored at a gathering in City Hall, and Cindy Fox was chosen as the Employee of the Quarter for the fourth quarter of 2007. As such, she would be eligible for the Employee of the Year award to be presented at the Annual State of the City Dinner on April 4, 2008. He noted that Cindy had already received a 100 dollar bill and the Employee of the Year would receive a $500 award. Quoting from the Resolution of Appreciation, Mayor Boro stated: "Cynthia Fox has been with the City of San Rafael Child Care Division for over twenty-six years. "Miss Cindy" has been a preschool teacher at Short Preschool and Center, Director at Don Timoteo Preschool and Vallecito Preschool. Since 1996, Miss Cindy has been the Director of Pickleweed Preschool and Children's Center." Continuing, Mayor Boro quoted: "Miss Cindy has a secret calling as a rap artist, with her group Miss Cindv and the Pickles, and she is known as `the fashion plate' of Pickleweed Children's Center" Mayor Boro noted Cindy had touched the lives of hundreds of families throughout San Rafael and was a truly admirable, respectful and caring friend to all. He congratulated and thanked Cindy Fox for her great service to the City of San Rafael. Thanking Mayor Boro and the City Council, Mr. Man Phan reported that his wife had worked with Cindy for approximately two years, which she very much enjoyed, and they presented her with a bouquet of flowers. Cindy Fox performed a poem she had written. "The City of San Rafael is just alright And I'm lovin' that great award they gave me tonight. I was taken by surprise on that rainy day When what I thought was a budget meeting didn't turn out that way. I really feel appreciated and so I say Thank you, thank you in every way. I love what I do, who I meet, what we say And it's great, it's boss to work with such great people every day. And then there are the kids, wow, kids are so great They keep you feelin' young even when you know you ain't. So thanks to my colleagues, Mayor Boro and the Council too For all those nice words, which I hope are all true." COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: OLD BUSINESS: 9. RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PICKLEWEED PARK COMMUNITY CENTER AND LIBRARY ENTERPRISE PLAN (CS) — FILE 267 x 9-3-65 Community Services Director Carlene McCart reported that the concept of an Enterprise Plan for the Pickleweed Park Community Center and Library was introduced to the City Council at a Study Session in November, 2006. At that point in time the new facility had been in operation for approximately one year and having gone through an eight year process to renovate and expand Pickleweed, staff believed in was SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 3 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 4 time to memorialize some of the spirit of that project. New procedures and policies were in place, which the community assisted in developing, for the operation of the Center. There were tools to measure the community benefit of the programs and services provided and there was a very strong network, which continues, of partners from throughout the City and Marin County. She indicated there was a strong credibility with those being served, together with a very committed group of community leaders who had offered their support going forward to ensure financial solvency in the future. With all of these pieces in place, Ms. McCart stated staff recognized the need to articulate the purpose of the Pickleweed Park Community Center and Library and to memorialize the roles, responsibilities and accountability for its operation and future success. Ms. McCart explained that the purpose of the Center was to empower the Canal neighborhood in its community development through recreation programs, literacy, education, cultural events, services and opportunities for families, adults, children, youth and seniors, including those who live in the greater San Rafael community and the County. Reporting that the Enterprise Plan was conceived and drafted by a committee that represented six different City departments, Ms. McCart stated that subsequent to eight drafts, one was found to represent the core feeling. Part of the mission was to keep the report short, concise and a readable document that would be easily passed down from this generation of workers and providers to the next. Reporting that the document was reviewed with community groups, Ms. McCart stated that the Pickleweed Advisory Board and the Park and Recreation Commission were visited twice, together with the Economic Development Board and Library Board, and each contributed small changes that enhanced the document. She indicated that it was reviewed with several members of the City Council along the way, as well as the City Manager. Ms. McCart explained that the Enterprise Plan was a picture of the dynamics of a public community- based purposeful operation, beginning with statements of commitment to: • Community • Diversity • Neighborhood • Collaboration • Staff • Communication and it made reference to the mission of the Community Services Department and the Library, although this wording did not appear in the document. Ms. McCart reported that the document described Who it serves and Who governs. It goes on to a small chapter addressing What the Center and Library offer, the standards for service for delivery, significant challenges and long-term directions. She explained the When was a history of the project, the site, neighborhood and community. The How piece in the Plan discussed in broad terms how the Community Center and Library are sustained and the Why articulated why the Center and Library were critical to the goal of the community development for the Canal Neighborhood. Presenting the Plan to the City Council, Ms. McCart stated she would be happy to answer questions and looked forward to comments. From all the people of the City whom the City Council was graced to represent, Councilmember Miller expressed thanks to Carlene McCart. He indicated that this thanks to her was really through her to all the work community that manages the City and was represented in the workgroup who produced this document: Linda Kenton, Richard Landis, Stephanie Smith-Lovette, David Donery and Carlene McCart. He stated that special thanks went to Carlene for facilitating the work of this group and producing this wonderful document, and special thanks also went to David Donery, the prime mover of the development of this Center and community. Councilmember Miller stated this document presented a picture of a dynamic, vital, purposeful system SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 4 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 5 that fostered and strengthened community -directed growth and change. The picture had been painted in graphic design and format. He stated that architect, Jaime Baer, described Pickleweed as a celebration of boxes; however, he (Councilmember Miller) described it as a celebration of gift boxes, because the receiver of the box used that gift as they wanted to use it. He noted the colorful format was sectioned off on Who, When, Why, How, with the guiding questions inviting the reader into the process giving it real vitality. Indicating the document was a living book of pictures, Councilmember Miller stated that the front cover portrayed the heart and soul of the enterprise. The front cover stated the purpose, opportunities for communities of place, interest and cultures, and the commitment to the values of community, diversity, neighborhood, collaboration and communication for social change. He indicated that the back cover features an integrated model of social change that sparks the communities' decisions and actions in their self -determined growth to betterment. Councilmember Miller noted that the chapters of the book demonstrate that the purpose is accomplished and values honored through partnerships in governance, programs and financing through involvement of public, private and civil sectors and from individual donations. Councilmember Miller outlined the Uses of the Enterprise Plan as follows: 1. To memorialize and to communicate, to share the picture of Pickleweed. He suggested sending a copy of this document to the wonderful donors and partners; 2. To evaluate the programs. The purpose and six value statements serve as a framework to guide daily actions of staff and collective actions for self -development of the communities of the Canal Neighborhood; and 3. To manage Pickleweed Park Community Center and Library. To take a picture according to the format and questions every six months and compare time frames. This would facilitate concentration on significant challenges of sustainable funding for programs and facility maintenance, expanded staff resources, and sparking community supporters and contributors. Councilmember Miller stated that this Enterprise Plan represented a shining symbol and inspirational model of San Rafael's community-based governance - the work of the people represented and resourced by their city government — and he expressed sincere thanks. Councilmember Connolly expressed thanks to Carlene McCart, staff and the community for developing the Enterprise Plan. He noted the Pickleweed Community Center and Library were jewels in the community and there was nothing more important to the health of the community than having a strong Library and Community Center. Indicating he was particularly struck by one comment in the Plan that noted the striking theme, Councilmember Connolly quoted: "A commitment among respondents to create opportunities for economic self-sufficiency for their families." Having had the benefit recently of going through an election campaign, he reported having heard strongly from the Canal community that they valued the ability to have these services in addition to recreational opportunities. Complimenting the content and layout of the Enterprise Plan, Councilmember Heller suggested that in moving forward, redoing the soccer field be placed on a wish list, because it was disappointing to see a field such as this so desperately needed in this community out of operation for seven months of the year. She believed the community might be ready to discuss and move forward somewhat. She congratulated Councilmember Miller and city staff for moving this Plan forward. Sharing his thanks and congratulations, Councilmember Brockbank stated he appreciated the distinction that it was not just a document which would sit on the shelf. It was a living, breathing document that represented a culmination, and high point to proceed. He inquired whether there were plans to review and amend it annually. Responding, Ms. McCart stated that a retreat with the Pickleweed Advisory Board was scheduled regularly, usually in February, and this would be a part of that retreat. Mayor Boro quoted from Page 4 of the Enterprise Plan: "A secondary target market is the population of greater San Rafael, as well as the Marin County community as a whole", and he believed this to be very important. He stated that this was obviously built to deal with a neighborhood that had needs and issues SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 5 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 6 and it was designed to deal with these; however, this facility had also been made available to the Marin County community. He was aware that many cities in the county marveled at it also and he believed it to be an asset to the entire community. For the benefit of Councilmembers Brockbank and Connolly, Mayor Boro reported that last year this facility won the Helen Putnam Award as the number one project in the State of California, not only for the project itself but the public/private partnership used to finance and build the project. Sharing two separate experiences at Pickleweed, Mayor Boro reported that prior to tearing the old building down while walking a potential donor through, they observed Vietnamese ladies in the lobby learning English, people playing bridge in the old recreation room, and others doing other things, and the gentleman commented: "If the rest of the world was like this place, this would be a much better world." Subsequent to its being built, while giving a tour of Pickleweed to a young priest from St. Raphael's who was returning to the Philippines, he (the priest) stated: "You know Mayor, if the rest of the world was like this place, it would be a better world." Mayor Boro stated this was pretty symbolic of the impact of the Center. Mayor Boro stated the Enterprise Plan was a good one. The funding needed to be worked on and there was a group of people committed to helping going forward. He stated that Carlene McCart and David Donery do a great job in how the facility is operated and how funds are raised for it. Providers provide the services while the City provides the space, which works really well. Indicating that the Learning Center was outstanding, Mayor Boro reported that having accidentally met with someone from Wells Fargo Bank recently, he reported they were willing to bring their mobile units back should more help be needed. Explaining that Wells Fargo has a computer laboratory on wheels, Mayor Boro stated they could have it there a few days a week if needed. Councilmember Miller moved and Councilmember Brockbank seconded, to adopt the Resolution. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 12425 — RESOLUTION TO APPROVE THE PICKLEWEED PARK COMMUNITY CENTER AND LIBRARY ENTERPRISE PLAN AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Brockbank, Connolly, Heller, Miller and Mayor Boro NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None Community Services Director Carlene McCart expressed thanks to Councilmember Miller who walked with them every step of the way throughout the process. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: NEW BUSINESS: 10. CONSIDERATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION PLAN WORK PROGRAM (P07-011) (CD) — FILE 13-1 x 9-1 Noting the City Council reviewed the draft program at a study session on January 22, 2008, Principal Planner Linda Jackson explained that the Climate Change Action Plan was all about Global Warming, Greenhouse Gas reduction and reducing the City's carbon footprint. She indicated that the plan scope was proposed to cover two areas: 1) Municipal Facilities and Operations and 2) Community Activities, both of which would be targeted at reducing the carbon footprint, e.g. energy use, purchasing, possibly plastic reduction, land use, transportation, waste, urban forest, etc. She recognized that a lot had been done in the City of San Rafael with policies, fleet changes, green building ordinance and tree city U.S.A.; however, a lot more could be done. Ms. Jackson introduced intern, Becky Persun, who was about to graduate from Dominican University's Green MBA program, and who would begin working on the project in a couple of weeks. Ms. Jackson noted two requests from the City Council from the study session — regular Council updates, and that those serving on the Green Ribbon Committee and Green Teams would help with looping out to the community. She noted this was referenced on page 3, together with a list of the principles that would SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 6 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 7 be given to the Green Ribbon committee and Green Teams to help focus their review of proposals as they came forward. On approval of the proposal this evening, Ms. Jackson stated that staff would proceed with issuing a call for applications to serve on the committee. With regard to the call for applications, Councilmember Heller inquired as to when they would be due. Ms. Jackson stated they would be due early to mid March. The applications would be ready by the end of this week. Responding to Councilmember Brockbank's question regarding the Greenhouse Gas study, Ms. Jackson reported that the study was underway by ICLEI (International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives) which was a critical step to starting the entire process. She anticipated having the results in time for the first meeting. Sue Spofford, Sustainable San Rafael, expressing thanks for the opportunity to address this issue, stated that the City's taking a clear and comprehensive step to address Global Warming was a momentous occasion. She noted however, that it was only a step — a plan to develop a plan on a nice agreeable schedule, which was progressive and which they were in favor of. She recalled that the City endorsed the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement that included the commitment to strive to meet or exceed the Kyoto Protocol target, which was to reduce worldwide greenhouse gas emissions 5.2% below 1990 levels by 2012. Indicating that time was of the essence, Ms. Spofford stated they wished to ensure that the City was resolved to make these serious cuts in greenhouse gas emissions and move ahead with recommended policies within the shortest timeframe. Referring to pages 9 and 10 — Phases of the Work Program — Ms. Spofford noted the five milestones of ICLEI's Cities for Climate Protection campaign, the last two of which were to implement the measures that would ensure reaching the target and to monitor and verify the progress. Noting this five step ICLEI program was what they hoped for three years ago, she stated they wished to ensure that the City was resolved to achieve very serious greenhouse gas reductions, and she believed something to this effect should be included in the charge to the Green Ribbon Committee. Ms. Spofford believed that if action was not taken by 2010, instead of looking for a 5% reduction from 1990, 30% would be required. With regard to the Green Teams, Ms. Spofford suggested adding a team focused on community education, perhaps in the form of a kiosk providing information. Roger Roberts, Marin Conservation League, applauded the steps being taken to proceed with greenhouse gas emission control and a plan using ICLEI as a standard. Pointing out that the wheel did not have to be reinvented, he reported that other cities had already marched ahead and as a result, a fair amount of information could be borrowed from cities such as Berkeley, San Francisco and others throughout the United States. He urged that the study group and action teams draw upon the experience of other cities to speed up the process. Noting Draft Energy Actions would be delivered in September, Mr. Roberts presumed this was to control emissions and reduce carbon footprint with specific targeted action steps. He stated this should be part of the plan and the final resolution so that actual targets would be achieved by a certain time. He agreed with Sustainable San Rafael that this needed to be done sooner rather than later and he urged that it be treated with urgency. Gerry Belletto — President, Lincoln -San Rafael Hill Neighborhood Association, expressed thanks to the City Council for becoming leaders in Marin County. As a neighborhood association, they were very concerned with this issue and would continue to monitor and be part of the progress. He commented that it was gratifying to see people who made campaign commitments quickly follow through. Kiki La Porta, Sustainable San Rafael, expressing thanks to the City Council, concurred that this was a momentous occasion. SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 7 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 8 Endorsing the comments of her colleagues this evening, Ms. La Porta called attention to the fact that climate change would not wait and there was a lot of work to do in a short period of time. She stated they would like to see implementation as part of the program, not waiting for the General Plan to be revised and published in 2009. They also would like to see the opportunity for the ecological u -turn, which would engage the imagination, curiosity and participation of citizens, and while the City's efforts to begin to look at internal operations and services in the City to improve efficiencies and responsibility towards climate change were extremely important, nonetheless, it was the citizenry who was willing, able and eager to participate in being part of the solution. As part of the program, Ms. La Porta recommended that one of the Green Teams be designated as a public education team along the lines of Ms. Spofford's suggestion. She noted it was not just about a kiosk, but an organized and strategic plan of communication, education and enlistment of participation of the community in all activities that would help to meet the climate change challenge. Noting zero waste was one of the potential tactics Mr. Brown suggested to pursue in achieving greenhouse gas reductions, Ms. La Porta stated she did not see this in the document presented this evening and she would like to see an informed and expert study about how zero waste could be utilized as a tactic to achieve greenhouse gas reduction targets as quickly as possible. Ms. La Porta stated that Sustainable San Rafael was ready and eager to participate in any way possible. David Haskel, expressing thanks, stated there were certain elements to be aware of. He believed it necessary to be very careful not to take the same mindset that generated the problem into the solution. Believing the focus to be correct, he stated it should take cost effective actions and prioritize these. Noting it focused on programs beneficial to the greatest number of residents, homeowners and businesses in San Rafael, he questioned how this could be achieved. Mr. Haskel believed that the type of working group deduction of energy, waste and water failed to understand that success was through the synergistic combining of those acts, as the synergies were worth far more than any single act. Encouraging the group to look at new solutions, he believed that San Rafael had a unique culture and character and he cautioned the City to beware of looking at other places for their models. Sandra Sellinaer, Marin ReLeaf, confirmed she had presented a CD to the City Council this evening concerning Urban Forestry. Stuart Moodv, Green Sangha, stated he heartily endorsed the intent and direction of the proposal to establish a Green Ribbon committee, as greening the city and society was not just a good idea, but a necessity. He agreed with Sue Spofford on the urgency of the problem both in terms of magnitude and timing. While it was easy to be discouraged by the rapidity of climate change and continuing output of greenhouse gases by industry and individuals, listening to City staff this evening was very encouraging. He commented that for the past two years having attended Council meetings, he had proudly reported to his family the life -supporting actions taken by the City Council, i.e., integrated pest management, U.S. Mayors Climate Change Agreement, green building, etc. Mr. Moody concurred with Mr. Roberts' recommendation to look at what others had done and with Mr. Haskel's proviso, and while San Rafael was unique, it was possible to learn from others. Urging everyone to turn off lights, Mr. Moody suggested jump starting the process by finding things to do immediately. Regarding the cost, he issued a reminder that the fiscal cost of inaction would far exceed any costs incurred in the short term of taking some positive action, and he thanked staff for leading the charge. Councilmember Brockbank noted that this was both about municipal operations and for the community at large. The Green Ribbon committee was so desperately needed to find a middle ground and make the biggest impact possible. Referring to page 6 of the staff report — Charge of the Citv Council to the Green Ribbon Committee — "....timely net financial benefits" - Councilmember Brockbank indicated he received clarification from staff this did not necessarily mean that every proposal had to have a "net financial gain", which was not intended at all. He stated staff concluded that more appropriate wording could be "overall financial benefits." While it was expected to have overall financial benefits for the changes to be made, no one should feel constrained in their recommendations by believing everything they proposed had to have individual net financial benefits. Councilmember Brockbank thanked staff for clarifying this. SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 8 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 9 Indicating he was excited about this plan, Councilmember Connolly thanked the community members who consistently kept climate change related issues at the forefront of the dialogue because of their passion and commitment. He thanked staff for working on this plan and the prior City Council for the initial steps taken, including joining ICLEI, the Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Green Building Ordinance. Noting the opportunity and challenge to take the efforts of the City to the next level, Councilmember Connolly stated that as had been noted by speakers, in many ways, the hard work had only just begun. He believed San Rafael could and must be at the forefront of these issues and could be a leader in Marin County as well as statewide. Regarding comments by Ms. Spofford and Mr. Roberts, Councilmember Connolly stated there was no question that the Climate Action Plan itself was an urgent priority; however, as he also noted at the study session, it was not exclusive of more immediate ideas and steps, including looking for ideas from other jurisdictions as well as ideas that made sense for San Rafael. Councilmember Heller stated she was looking forward to the next year and the work on this project. Councilmember Miller stated this made everyone see very clearly that the time had come to move intelligently and smartly. He believed in the synergistic approach of going forward in San Rafael's own tailor made way. Mayor Boro issued an assurance that Linda Jackson and Bob Brown had been evaluating best practices from all over the country and San Rafael was not too proud to steal a good idea. He believed the charge could be a little clearer on the fact that action results were required; however, staff had to work within the limited resources available. In an recent interview for an article to be published in the Marin Independent Journal, Mayor Boro reported that he stated the goal of this group was to make San Rafael the greatest city in Marin. Mayor Boro suggested following a past practice of staff sorting through applications. Subsequently, a sub -committee of the City Council would evaluate the applications with Ms. Jackson and Mr. Brown and bring a recommendation to the full Council. He invited Councilmember Connolly to join him on this sub- committee. He commented that it was important to have the private sector involved. With respect to the Green Building Ordinance, Mayor Boro noted that the proposed Target building would achieve Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) status and should it go forward, he believed it would be the first Target in the country to achieve that level. He believed those who own and develop property understood the future and that in the long term they would be way ahead by doing things smartly. He believed the idea of education for the general public as well as those making decisions in the business community was important. Based on the analysis of other cities' Climate Change Action Plans, Councilmember Brockbank inquired whether staff was confident this could be done with existing staff. Mr. Brown stated that in reviewing plans from other cities it was not all that clear how exactly they staffed their efforts. He indicated he would be requesting assistance from other City departments and there was a grant of $25,000 available which would expand capabilities. ICLEI had volunteered to assist in the process and local resources would be utilized also. Jim Turner, stated he was pleased with the coordination on plans between the County of Marin and the City of San Rafael. Mr. Brown stated staff was aware of the plan adopted by Marin County and while there would be differences, where there were similarities, these would be utilized. He noted the County had specific staff devoted to these efforts, who would be available to San Rafael as a resource. Mr. Brown commented that San Rafael would be a model for the other Marin cities that were just starting with their Greenhouse Gas Inventory. Councilmember Brockbank moved and Councilmember Connolly seconded, to approve the recommendation that the City Council approve the work program for the Climate Change Action Plan, and issue a call for applications to the Green Ribbon Committee and Green Teams. SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 9 SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 10 AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Brockbank, Connolly, Heller, Miller and Mayor Boro NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS: 11. a) Communitv Leadership Award: -File 119 x 9-1 Councilmember Brockbank reported that Mayor Boro was presented with the prestigious "Roger Grossman Community Leadership Award" at the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce Installation of Officers and Awards dinner on Friday, January 25, 2008. Mayor Boro noted that the City Council, staff and community made all this possible. b) Dovle Drive Toll: -File 112-2x 11-16 Mayor Boro noted that Councilmembers had received copies of the letter he had forwarded to State Senator Migden and Assembly member Huffman regarding the proposed Doyle Drive Toll. Assistant City Manager Jim Schultz reported that the news from the Nordhoff family was very positive There being no further business, Mayor Boro adjourned the City Council meeting at 9:20 p.m. ESTHER C. BEIRNE, City Clerk APPROVED THIS DAY OF 12008 MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL SRCC Minutes (Regular) 02/04/2008 Page 10