Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 11-18-98MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting Wednesday, November 18, 1998 The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on November 18, 1998, the notice for which had been legally noticed and posted, at 6:30 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll was taken and the following Councilmembers were present: Councilmembers Chavez, Ashiku, Kelly, Mastin, and Mayor Malone. Staff present: Public Utilities Director Barnes, Community Services Director DeKnoblough, Finance Director Elton, Risk Manager/Budget Officer Harris, City Manager Horsley, Public Works Director Kennedy, City Attorney Rapport, Planning Director Sawyer, Senior Planner Stump, Police Chief Williams, and City Clerk Ulvila. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Malone led the Pledge of Allegiance. 3. APPROVAL/CORRECTION OF MINUTES a. Regular Meeting of October 21, 1998 MIS MastinlKelly approving the minutes of the Regular Meeting of October 21, 1998 as submitted, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Chavez, Kelly, Mastin, and Mayor Malone. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: Councilmember Ashiku. ABSENT: None. 3. APPROVAL/CORRECTION OF MINUTES a. Regular Adjoumed Meeting of October 28, 1998 - Joint Meeting with Plannino_ Commission MIS Kelly/Mastin approving the minutes of the Regular Adjourned Meeting of October 28, 1998 - Joint Meeting with the Planning Commission as submitted, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Chavez, Ashiku, Kelly, Mastin, and Mayor Malone. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 4. RIGHT TO APPEAL DECISION Mayor Malone reviewed the appeal process. 5. CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Malone announced that there is audience interest in Consent item 5h and allowed audience comments. 5h - Approve Bad Debt Write-Off Report for Fiscal Year 199711998 Lorraine Baur, Willits attorney, advised that her firm sees many families that have bad debts. She discussed the practices of many private, for profit collection agencies, noting that the practice of collecting debts for a third party are regulated by state law. A creditor may be exposed to liability for the actions of the collector who is trying to collect debts. She recommended establishing an installment payment program and to coordinate it with other organizations assisting poverty level individuals. She advised against turning debts over to a private company for collection, noting that with the addition of court costs, attorney fees, and the judgment, the amount owed more than doubles in most cases. Vendors to the City should provide the City with insurance in case the vendor gets sued in court, thereby protecting the City from liability. She also recommended investigating the vendor to see if they have been sued previously and the status of their reputation. City Manager Horsley advised that the matter before Council involves an accounting procedure to write off the bad debts. Staff will take Ms. Baur's comments under advisement. She discussed the customer service program of the City and other avenues to assist Iow income people in the City. MIS Kelly/Malone approving Items a-k of the Consent Calendar as follows: a. Approved Disbursements for the Month of October 1998; b. Rejected Claim for Damages Received from Jennifer Davidson, and Referred to Joint Powers Authority, Redwood Empire Municipal Insurance Fund; c. Accepted Report on Expenditure of Budgeted Item Fiscal Year 1998-99 - Year 2000 Conversion of the OrCom Billing Software; November 18, 1998 Page 1 do eo g. h. ko Approved Budget Amendment for Award of U.S. Department of Justice-School Based Partnership Grant in the Amount. of $114,590; Awarded Bid of Contract to Harper Ford Country for the Purchase of an Automobile in an Amount not to Exceed $11,685.44; Awarded Bid for High Voltage Line Clearing and Tree Trimming at Various Locations Within the City of Ukiah to Family Tree Service in an Amount not to Exceed $30,000; Awarded Bid for Super Duty 4x2 Dual Rear Wheel Cab and Chassis with Utility Body to Harper Ford Country in the Amount of $29,551.13; Approved Bad Debt Write-Off Report for Fiscal Year 1997/98; Received Report on Cost of Repairs to Civic Center Emergency Generator and Approved Budget Amendment; Adopted Resolution 99-23 Authorizing Execution of Grant Agreement with the State Coastal Conservancy for the Gobbi Street Riverside Park Site Design Study, and Approved Budget Amendment; Adopted Resolution 99-24 Approving the Execution and Delivery of Agreements to Provide Certain Information as Required Under Rule 15c2-12 of the Securities and Exchange Commission and Authorizing the Mayor to Execute Such Agreements on Behalf of the City of Ukiah. The motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Chavez, Ashiku, Kelly, Mastin, and Mayor Malone NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 6. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS No one came forward to address the Council. 7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 7a. Introduce Ordinance Amending Section 3016 of Article 3, Chapter 1, Division 3 Of The Ukiah Municipal Code (Demolition Permit Review) Planning Director Sawyer advised that at the October 28, 1998 City Council meeting with the Planning Commission, discussion was had relative to the revisions to the ordinance affecting demolition permits as they relate to structures possibly having historical, architectural, or cultural significance. The version of the ordinance taken before the Council and Commission on October 28, 1998 consisted of several procedural and substantive changes. After reviewing and discussing the earlier revisions, the Council remanded the ordinance back to staff for additional changes which consists of the following: excluding from the exempt status certain accessory structures, such as carriage houses, which are presumed to be historically significant; adding language which gives the applicant an opportunity to submit a new application to possibly prove that new or changed market conditions warrant reconsideration of the demolition permit; establishing criteria for Council reconsideration, whereby misrepresentations or misinformation made solely by the applicant shall warrant grounds for reconsideration; adding a requirement that the Building Official shall notify the applicant in writing when an already issued demolition permit is being suspended for the purpose of Council reconsideration; and adding a section which renders intact and valid all parts of the ordinance not otherwise held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a court of law. He noted that Councilmember Kelly had recommended an addition to Section 6 with regard to public noticing. He reiterated that the new regulations, according to the City Attorney, constitute a discretionary review and approval process, and that the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) must be administered on all demolition permits meeting the previously cited age criteria. Accordingly, most common demolition permit applications would merely be subject to a CEQA exemption pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301-1, and no additional environmental review would be necessary. However, whenever it can be determined by research and analysis that a structure proposed for demolition probably has historical, architectural, or cultural significance, staff will most likely be compelled to cause the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). If Council adopts the ordinance, it will increase staff time in the evaluation of CEQA Guidelines, and fees should then be evaluated. He recommended the fee be nominal, such as the current standard of $250 for a Site Development Permit. November 18, 1998 Page 2 Mayor Malone pointed out that the ordinance does not specify the viability of a building, only the market value. He discussed possible Iow maintenance of properties by some owners in order to avoid EIR fees. City Attorney Rapport advised that the ordinance presented to Council is an interim ordinance and noted that the historical preservation ordinance should address such matters as Iow maintenance of buildings on the historical list. Public Comment Period Opened: 6:55 p.m. Jeff Trouette, 807 Maple Avenue, felt that Council should wait until a list of historically significant properties in the community is completed by an expert, noting the inventory is critical to identifying properties considered historical. A public notice should be given to those in the neighborhood of the property. He noted that many people who are unable to obtain a demolition permit may let their property deteriorate. It was his opinion that the proposed ordinance is too stringent. He discussed the issue of fraud. He strongly recommended that Council not enact the "reconsideration" portion of the ordinance and that they stick by all decisions they make. He felt that, if decisions can be reconsidered then no decision of the City Council would, essentially, be final. Public Comment Period Closed: 7:00 p.m. Mayor Malone voiced his appreciation for staff's time in the preparation of the proposed ordinance, but felt with its enactment it will cause additional work for staff. He noted the importance of adjacent property owners being noticed. It was his opinion that the proposed ordinance does not improve the process of making subjective decisions concerning the historical value of a structure. Once the historical preservation ordinance is in place, and property owners are notified, the process will work better. However, the Council will still have to make decisions. He felt that what the City has in place at the present time is working effectively. Councilmember Kelly voiced her appreciation for Mr. Trouette's concerns with the ordinance. She felt, while the interim ordinance is in effect, City staff could continue their work on the inventory in an unpressured way. She realized that there will be people who will object to the ordinance, however, the interim ordinance allows the City to approach a more detailed ordinance in a respectable way. She supported the proposed ordinance. Councilmember Ashiku voiced his opposition to the proposed ordinance, noting it is premature without a current inventory. He felt it's inappropriate to move quickly on this matter, and that a measured approach should be taken. In that way, an interim ordinance would not hold the public hostage to the rigid standards of CEQA. The way the ordinance reads, anyone with a building over 50 years old would be placed on the inventory list. Councilmember Chavez expressed her concern that there is a need to have a policy in place now and that postponing the ordinance only puts the City in a vulnerable position to make decisions on matters that may arise in the future, which are similar in nature to the demolition permit for St. Mary's Church. Councilmember Ashiku was of the opinion that the existing ordinance is stronger concerning preservation than the proposed ordinance. He expressed his concern that a discretionary decision being made by Council could burden a property owner with an expensive process. Councilmember Mastin reminded Council that all projects will eventually come before the City Council for review. He felt the proposed ordinance allows for greater review of projects. Motion KellylChavez to introduce by title only Ordinance Amending Section 3016 of Article 3, Chapter 1 of Division 3 of the Ukiah City Code, including the addendum to the Ordinance as provided in the Staff Report and that adequate notice be given to adjacent property owners within 300 feet of the property lines, carried by a voice vote of: AYE: Councilmembers Chavez, Kelly, Mastin. NOES: Councilmember Ashiku and Mayor November 18, 1998 Page 3 Malone. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. City Clerk Ulvila read the title of the Ordinance. MIS KellylMastin to introduce Ordinance, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Chavez, Kelly, Mastin. NOES: Councilmember Ashiku and Mayor Malone. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 7b. Report of Action Steps Regarding Mental Health and Other Issues City Manager Horsley advised that the recent shooting incident in the Ukiah community was not only tragic but emotionally traumatic for the Police Department and community. There has never been a shooting death by a Police Officer in the history of the City, a testament to the fact that the Department has always strived to exercise other alternatives to deadly force. The Police Chief and his staff, the City Manager, and community members have worked together to identify areas for developing improved protocols and procedures, training, and communications. She reported that Chief Williams personally met with the Mendocino County Mental Health Director to discuss the working relationship between the two agencies and to find ways to improve communications and planning between the agencies. The Police Chief and City Manager have also been meeting and working with a group of citizens regarding some of their community concerns and issues. Areas of interest discussed include protocol for mental health intervention, complaint procedures, safety issues, traffic stops, use of deadly force, and pepper spray. She discussed the Cadet Program and the Ride-Along Program which improve communication and understanding of Police Department techniques and programs. Both she and the Chief of Police will continue to work with various groups within the community. Booker Neal, U.S. Department of Justice representative from San Francisco, advised that he met with the City Manager, Chief of Police, and a community interest group. The Community Relations Services provided by his agency assist people in meeting to help prevent such shooting incidents from happening in the future. The City has been very open and candid about the incident, and many ideas have come out of discussions with the ad hoc group. He felt the discussions are a positive step forward and he will continue to lend his support. LeCretia Peoples, Ukiah resident, expressed her concern regarding pepper spray and K9 use, hiring practices, and routine traffic stops made by Police Officers. She discussed the values of the Police Officers and asked the City Council to appoint an ad hoc committee to assist in developing values and to make recommendations to revise the current policies and procedures of the Police Department. Ernest Jones, Chairman of the Mendocino Commission on Human Rights, advised that the Commission was formed from experiences with law enforcement officers in the Ukiah community and throughout Mendocino County. The Commission is not officially sanctioned or sponsored by any government agency. The ad hoc committee will continue to investigate violations in Mendocino County and educate people. He discussed human rights issues, noting that the Commission's purpose is to make peace. Phil Leon, 4 Highland Court, felt the City Council has a moral responsibility to set policy of how the City is policed. It was his opinion that the Marvin Nobles incident focused on the use of Police dogs and the interchange between Police Officers and citizens. He discussed the minority communities in Ukiah and felt the City Council should make it a priority to set policies regarding the use of police dogs and Police Department interaction with the mentally ill. Linda McClure, 1201 Parducci Road, discussed the citizen complaint procedure, and made the following recommendations: claimants should be informed they can speak to an officer, but are not required; all complaints should be accepted, despite the judgement of City staff; the procedures should be stated clearly and be made available in Spanish as well as English; and the claimant should be notified within 30 days of the decision regarding the complaint. She discussed harassment of claimants by Officers when a November 18, 1998 Page 4 complaint is filed against them. She felt it is in the best interest of the Police Department and the community to improve public relations. Laurel Near, 809 West Clay, discussed diversity training and felt that, with diversity training, there comes de-escalation of violence, such as violence against women, children and minorities. The Police Department has a huge job and must carry respect and honor in order to serve the whole community. She noted that the ad hoc committee recommends a diversity workshop be held once a year. David Lincoln, member of the Yokayo Indian Ranch, discussed the current procedures regarding the use of force, pepper spray, K-9 units, interaction with the Mendocino County Mental Health Department, and recommended revisions to these procedures be made immediately. He recommended recertification be made on an annual basis for all non- lethal weapons training and use requirements. He further recommended additions to the procedures regarding mortal wound targeting. Craig Gummer, community property manager, commended all those who attended the City Council meeting and voiced their opinions, noting that speaking in public is somewhat intimidating. He felt that there are two sides to every complaint, noting that all sides to an issue are not always discussed in the newspaper. Police Chief John Williams discussed comments made by the ad hoc committee and felt that tremendous efforts have been made to incorporate some of their recommendations into the Police Department policies and procedures. He advised that Police Officers have a right to confront their accusers and this has been dealt with in a appropriate manner. The Police Department will continue to address issues in a timely manner and meet with citizens of the community regarding their concerns. Mayor Malone inquired of the audience as to how many have been involved in the Police Department Ride-Along Program or Police Academy. Very few individuals responded. He encouraged individuals to become involved in either of these programs in order to get a better feel for a Police Officer's duties before requesting changes in the current policies. Ms. McClure advised that Officer Peter Hoyle is still with the Police Department and this makes people very uncomfortable. Police Chief Williams advised that the Police Department must abide by certain legal procedures when dealing with personnel issues. As Police Chief he has a responsibility to his employees, noting that Officer Hoyle has been returned to service after an investigation, and he expects Officer Hoyle to act appropriately while on duty. City Attorney Rapport advised that if Ms McClure was aware of all the facts regarding Officer Hoyle, she might change her opinion. Vincent Holly Smith, Rohnert Park, discussed his interaction with Police Officers while a resident of Ukiah. Being a black individual, they have always treated him as a suspect while walking on streets in Ukiah at night. He encouraged the City to continue dialog with the ad hoc committee and other members of the community. Chief Williams advised that certain individuals are not allowed to participate in the Academy or Ride-Along Programs, such as those with previous criminal history. The Academy will resume its program in the spring of 1999. Jackie, no last name provided, Yokayo Drive, discussed individuals riding with Police Officers. She felt the City Council is assuming that the ad hoc committee has no sympathy for the Police Department. Rob Maxey, 671 Yokayo Drive, advised that as a local business person he was not aware of the Ride-Along Program. He commended the Police Department for doing a great job, noting that many Officers are in attendance at the meeting. Louwyn Miller, 8000 Appaloosa, Redwood Valley, noted that even though some November 18, 1998 Page 5 individuals have not participated in the Ride-Along Program doesn't mean that they shouldn't investigate the procedures and motivations of the Police Department. She has had both negative and positive experience with law enforcement officers. Ken McCormick, 658 Walnut Avenue, commented on the near capacity crowd in attendance at the meeting. He felt that Police Officers are human beings whose rights are very important in an incident where force may need to be taken. As he has become acquainted with some of the Officers, he now feels a sense of relief knowing that he is protected by them. They are under a tremendous amount of pressure and they have a critical job to perform in the community. Ernest Jones discussed policies and procedures and felt, after listening to those individuals speaking at the meeting, it is almost like an "us versus them" thing. He did not want people to be at odds with each other and felt individuals should be allowed to voice their concerns about procedures of the Police Department. Discussion followed concerning Police Officers becoming more involved in the community activities so that the community doesn't always see them as just law enforcement. The City Council encouraged City staff to participate in community events. Consensus of Council was to receive and file the Report of Action Steps Regarding Mental Health and other issues. Recessed: 8:37 p.m. Reconvened: 8:56 p.m. 7c. Report Regarding Weed Control Methods City Manager Horsley advised that Staff has conducted research into weed control methods during the past year. The Divisions within the City which conduct herbicide application programs are the Parks/Golf Maintenance, Public Utilities, and Street Departments. Each Department has trained and certified personnel in charge of implementing the specific program for vegetation control. Though in the past, conventional weed control techniques have relied substantially on the use of chemical herbicides, staff has spent the last year investigating ways to provide the City with long-term, cost-effective weed control measures while reducing the risks associated with weed control to both workers and citizens. She reported on action steps taken to provide the data measurements necessary to analyze various alternatives to weed control within the various Departments. She discussed the use of toxic household chemicals and seminars conducted to provide information to the public. The matter of noise and air pollution issues related to the use of herbicide applications and weed blowers was discussed. She expressed concern for the aesthetics of the community and advocated the formation of a beautification committee. Health risks, such as coming in contact with poison oak, were also discussed. She discussed the use of RoundUp and recommended its continued use be limited. Glenn McGourty, Cai State Agricultural representative for the Ukiah area, discussed the use of RoundUp by the agricultural industry in Ukiah Valley. While there is a lot of interest concerning the use of herbicides, it is important to understand its relationship to environmental toxicity. There are two toxicology issues of importance with the use of chemicals: acute toxicity and chronic toxicity. Acute toxicity relates to immediate effects if one is exposed to a chemical. Chronic toxicity is exposure over a period of time with Iow dosages of a chemical. The use of RoundUp's acute toxicity, or immediate effects, have been proven quite safe. He discussed laboratory experiments and standards with regard to RoundUp and noted it is classified in the same danger category as table salt. He discussed the use of DDT and Agent Orange chemical compounds, both containing high levels of dioxin, and are highly toxic and harmful to both the environment and human life. He discussed the issue of air pollution with regard to burning as compared to the use of RoundUp. The use of vinegar was discussed and it was noted that it is very corrosive and can cause damage when exposed to the eyes. He suggested the City not be concerned with the use of RoundUp in certain situations where other methods do not work, such as cracks in pavement or sidewalks. November 18, 1998 Page 6 Discussion followed concerning Mr. McGourty's informative presentation and recommended information be provided to the public concerning the use of household and weed abatement chemicals. Breathing residues from chemicals and their effects on children and animals was a noted concern. Consensus of Council was to apply the best and least intrusive method of weed abatement within the community. Councilmember Mastin advised that last year he was against the use of herbicides, however, he commended staff and Mr. McGourty for their research and concern, and felt he can approve the use of some herbicides without safety concerns. Councilmember Kelly found Mr. McGourty's impartial analysis of herbicide use within the City Departments and agricultural uses in the valley very informative. Discussion followed concerning the staff's recommendation to use RoundUp on identified sites in the City. Public Works Director Kennedy discussed the use of RoundUp on concrete sidewalks and pedestrian areas, noting that there is only enough time for staff to concentrate on corridor areas of the City for application. Through this year's pilot program, the Public Works Department was able to reduce their use of herbicides to 3 gallons for use only in very selected identified sites. Mr. McGourty discussed the use of a funnel at the end of a sprayer to restrict spraying in cracks in pavement or sidewalk. He will meet with staff to review City practices and application techniques. He has worked with the crews from the Parks Department, and noted that as part of the certification program, staff can organize a training session and receive credit towards their certification. Mayor Malone recommended that an informational sheet be prepared and made available to the public regarding the City's weed control methods and the chemicals used. City Manager Horsley advised that, with Council's approval, staff will initiate a reporting plan for City Departments regarding data concerning the City's use of herbicides. MIS MastinlMalone to Receive Report Regarding Weed Control Methods, and carried by the following roll call vote: AYE: Councilmembers Chavez, Ashiku, Kelly, Mastin, and Mayor Malone. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 7d. Status Report on MTA's Proposed Inter-Modal Transfer Station At Railroad Depot Site Councilmember Mastin reported that at the end of September, the Railroad Depot Committee submitted an offer to purchase the Ukiah Railroad Depot property to North Coast Rail Authority (NCRA) and it was rejected. Since that time, there has been a great deal of communication regarding the matter. On November 17, 1998, NCRA met with Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) and had fruitful discussions and negotiations. A second offer will be forthcoming. He discussed scheduled cleanup of the Ukiah site and noted that MTA feels it is not in their best interest to spend money on property adjacent to a contaminated site, noting that the property could remain in that state for a number of years. NCRA has agreed to write a letter requesting that the Ukiah site be moved up on list for cleanup. Currently, the Ukiah site is next to last on list to be cleaned up. He discussed cleanup at the Willits site. He advised that the proposal is still going forward, and they should know in about a month as to the outcome. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8a. Consideration And Approval Of Staff Time To Facilitate And Serve On Beautification and Preservation Committees City Manager Horsley reported that many times City staff receives requests from community members for assistance in solving a neighborhood problem or to provide technical expertise on a particular community-oriented project. The recent controversy over the St. Mary's Church has emphasized the need for a preservation society in the Ukiah Valley. A recognized group could develop funding sources through the private sector and grants to provide formal funding for the purchase of historic buildings that the November 18, 1998 Page 7 community wishes to save when they are on the market for demolition. Staff has already been in contact with state and federal preservation agencies that assist in forming preservation groups and are obtaining model guidelines to assist a group. The goal would be to facilitate interested citizens who would want to participate in this endeavor. The second area of community interest involves an interest in forming a committee to enhance the visual quality of our City. Staff has met with this group and their goal would be to establish objectives for enhancement of visual aesthetics in our main corridors, identify areas that could be improved, and provide private property owners with several types of assistance that would be identified through the committee process. Participation of the public would be voluntary. By establishing the stewardship body, the community can develop and define a framework through which they can work towards implementation of these goals. MIS Ashiku/Mastin approving of Staff Time to Facilitate And Serve On Beautification and Preservation Committees, carried by a voice vote of all AYE. 8b. Authorize A Budget Amendment In The Amount of $96,743 to Fund 612-3850 For The Replacement of Inflow Grinders At The Wastewater Treatment Plant. MIS MalonelMastin authorizing a Budget Amendment in the amount of $96,743 to Fund 612-3850 for the replacement of inflow grinders at the wastewater treatment plant, carried by a voice vote of all AYE. 9. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Chavez reported meeting with the Board of the Main Street Program and they are excited to see the contract signed with the City. It is her hope that this will be a long term relationship. The Christmas tree lights are being hung. Mayor Malone noted that he was the first person to string Christmas lights on the trees along School Street in conjunction with Ukiah's Main Street Program. Councilmember Chavez delivered a farewell message in Spanish to the Council, then reread the message in English. She reminded Council of what it is like to those who do not understand English, or vice versa. It is her hope that the City will continue to use Spanish in their communications to the public, noting that there is a large population of Hispanic speaking residents in the Ukiah Valley. Not being informed affects us all. She expressed her appreciation to the City Council for appointing her as a Councilmember. Councilmember Ashiku reported hearing that the cost of the County's General Plan is approximately $500,000. He expressed his concern for the County's General Plan process. Discussion followed concerning this matter. Councilmember Kelly appreciated Councilmember Chavez's reminder of the Hispanic community's presence. She expressed her enjoyment working with her as a Council- member. She reported meeting with Tom MonPere at Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC). On December 9, 1998, there will be a financing group meeting and they hope to help bring financing for Iow cost housing into the community. She reviewed an article in Newsweek on ways to cool down cities. She discussed the effects of heat as generated by asphalt, noting that asphalt compounds the effects of air pollution. The article also demonstrated how the planting of trees makes a difference and can actually lower the temperature of vehicles in parking lots. She commended the Shade Brigade for their efforts to plant more trees in the community. She attended a meeting in Willits with the Mendocino County Mental Health Board and noted a Board member was in attendance at this meeting earlier in the evening. Signatures are being solicited by the Skateboard Park Committee for a petition to have the Skateboard Park at Low Gap Park. The Committee is now dealing with neighborhood issues in the Low Gap Road area. November 18, 1998 Page 8 Councilmember Mastin reported that MTA met on October 22, 1998 and discussed the new Laytonville service area. The new service is a fully funded Cai-WORKS project. MTA reported that their ridership has increased from Laytonville to Willits. The Laytonville bus is put into use in the Willits area as Dial-A-Ride service for four hours per day, then travels back to Laytonville. He reported that MSWMA met on October 28, 1998, and discussed $B8939 compliance. MSWMA voted to continue to provide removal service of refrigerators, washers and dryers to remove Freon and mercury, as well as PCB's. This removal service will probably necessitate the hiring of an individual to perform this service, since the process is very time consuming. He also reported attending the Veterans Day Parade in Petaluma as part of his Mayor-elect duties. Mayor Malone reported attending his last Chamber of Commerce meeting today. They have asked him to stay on as a board member, and are currently in the interviewing process for new board members. He discussed revenues coming into the County's Tourism and Promotional Fund, noting that the program will be fully funded the first year, however, subsequent years will not have full funding. The Chamber discussed the endowment Leadership Mendocino Program and hope to continue the program as a Chamber function. He also discussed receiving a letter from Quentin Kopp regarding the studies conducted concerning the Northwestern Pacific Railroad, FEMA update on disbursing funding for the railroad, and the audit which was conducted in November 1998. 10. CITY MANAGER/DIRECTOR REPORTS City Manager Horsley discussed her meeting with a FEMA representative. suggested a city hire someone to manager how FEMA funds will be used. followed concerning the North Coast Railroad Authority (NCRA). FEMA has Discussion She advised the Community Services Director DeKnoblough and Senior Planner Stump are now on the subcommittee established by the Ukiah Unified School District to work on the new school site at the former Wards store. The School District will hire someone to deal with CEQA requirements. On November 16, 1998 both Public Works Director Kennedy and her met with members of the community regarding Clara Avenue and Ford Street traffic calming measures. Various issues such as stop signs and speed humps were discussed. The City will send out a survey to neighborhoods regarding traffic calming. Public Works Director Kennedy reported attending a Mendocino Council of Governments (MCOG) meeting in which funding for road improvements was discussed. MCOG expects to receive $8 million with appropriations to roads, railroad, MTA, bike lanes, etc. He noted various scenarios of how the six cities in Mendocino County would share the money allocated for roads. He advised that the money can be used for rehabilitation or storm damage to local roads and recommended choosing roads that would not fair well under the SB45 process. He recommended a priority list be established, and will bring it before Council at their December 2, 1998 meeting. He reported that the amended State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) has to be to the California Transportation Commission (CTC) by January 1, 1999. Each project has to have a Project Study Report (PSR), noting that the process is a great opportunity, although a lot of work for staff. He discussed STP D-1 funding sources. Additional funds will be available in the year 2002, and that cities will be competing against Caltrans on various projects. Discussion followed concerning NCRA and the hold the state has put on funding. It was noted that approximately $800,000 of the funds coming to MCOG are available to NCRA. NCRA needs to become aware of these types of funding sources and attend MCOG meetings. City Manager Horsley advised that there will be a reception prior to the December 2, 1998 City Council meeting honoring Mayor Sheridan Malone and Councilmember Guadalupe Chavez. The reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. November 18, 1998 Page 9 11. CLOSED SESSION Mayor Malone announced the Closed Session agenda as follows: al G.C. §54957.6 - Conference With Labor Negotiator Employee Units: Department Head, Management, Miscellaneous, and Police Negotiator: Candace Horsley bm G.C, §54956.8 - Conference With Real Property Negotiator Property: A.P. No. 184-100-03 Owner: City of Ukiah Negotiator: Candace Horsley Under Negotiation: Terms and Conditions em G.C. §54956.8 - Conference With Real Property Negotiator Property: A.P. No. 180-080-46 & 47 Owner: Gary Ackerstrom Negotiator: Candace Horsley Under Negotiation: Terms and Conditions The City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 10:25 p.m. The City Council reconvened from Closed Session at 11:42 p.m. No action was taken. 8c. Consideration and Adoption of Resolution Approving Memorandums of Understanding for Employee Bargaining Units - Department Head, Manaqement, Miscellaneous, and Police MIS Ashiku/Chavez to adopt Resolution 99-26 Approving Memorandums of Understanding for Employee Bargaining Units - Department Head, Management, Miscellaneous, and Police, carried a voice vote of all AYE. 12. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 11:43 p.m. Marie Ulvila, City Clerk November 18, 1998 Page 10