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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 12-16-98MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting Wednesday, December 16, 1998 The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on December 16, 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 Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. Staff present: Public Utilities Director Barnes, Community Services Director DeKnoblough, Finance Director Elton, Assistant City Manager Flad, City Manager Horsley, Public Works Director Kennedy, City Attorney Rapport, Fire Chief Sandelin, Planning Director Sawyer, Senior Planner Stump, Police Chief Williams, Executive Assistant Yoast, and City Clerk Ulvila. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Libby led the Pledge of Allegiance. 3. PRESENTATIONS a. Fire Department Presentation of New Hurst Tools Received from Grant Funds (Jaws of Life) Fire Chief Sandelin explained that the Fire Department was awarded a grant in the amount of $22,000 for ambulance preparation, a set of Hurst rescue tools, extrication equipment, traffic safety education, and bike helmets from the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The equipment will also be available during a seismic event and should be a great benefit to the Ukiah community. He commended Fire Department Engineer Haz-Mat Specialist Yates for his efforts in writing the grant and working closely with OTS staff. Fire Department Engineer Haz-Mat Specialist Yates explained the use of the Jaws of Life equipment. He invited the City Council to tour the Fire Department facility and receive a demonstration of their equipment. The additional equipment will also be used to assist the California Department of Forestry (CDF) and can be transported, along with a medic, on a CDF helicopter. 3b. Introduction of New Employees 3bi. Mike Todd, FireficjhterlParamedic 3bii. Brian Lane, FireficjhterlParamedic Fire Chief Sandelin advised that Firefighters Todd and Lane were unable to attend the meeting and will be rescheduled for introduction at a later date. 3biii. Scott Cordis, FireficjhterlParamedic Fire Chief Sandelin introduced Scott Cordis who became a full-time Firefighter/Paramedic on September 13, 1998. He has been with the Fire Department since 1994, beginning as a volunteer firefighter. Scott is trained as a swiffwater rescue technician, a fire engineer and a paramedic. He noted that Scott is very goal oriented. FirefighterlParamedic Cordis stated that he is happy to be hired by the City and he enjoys his job. 3biv. Cathy Elawadly, Administrative Secretary Executive Assistant Yoast introduced Cathy Elawadly who was hired as a part-time Administrative Secretary in October of this year, to fill the vacancy created when Meeting Transcriber Marge Guintoli retired. Cathy has an extensive business and educational background. Her many diverse talents have already proven very valuable and she has easily adapted to a variety of projects she has undertaken for several different departments. Administrative Secretary Elawadly stated that she is pleased to be employed by the City and enjoys working with staff. 3b. Sherrie Smith-Ferri, Museum Director Community Development Director DeKnoblough introduced Museum Director Sherrie Smith-Ferri. Ms. Smith-Ferri is not new to the Sun House/Grace Hudson Museum, having December 16, 1998 Page I been involved in various capacities in the past including: Acting Museum Director, Curator, and Project Director for several projects, exhibits, and grants. She is to be congratulated on her recent accomplishment of acquiring her Ph.D. from the University of Washington. The City of Ukiah is very fortunate to bring a person with her background, experience, and reputation to the Museum. City Manager Horsley explained that the City has gone through a series of Museum Directors, with Ms. Smith-Ferri helping through each transition. It became apparent to the City that as each Director took leave, Sherrie was able to continue the Museum programs, and her knowledge of the Museum's history and collections is extensive. She advised that Ms Smith-Ferri works well with the Guild and City staff and is a real asset to the community. Museum Director Smith-Ferri stated she is pleased to be working with the City and commended the community and City staff who recognize the ardent knowledge that the Museum represents. She is looking forward to working with the City Council and welcomes tours of the Museum. She noted that there will be an open house at the Museum this weekend. 4. APPROVAL/CORRECTION OF MINUTES a. Regular Meeting of December 2, 1998 Councilmember Libby recommended a correction to Page 1, regarding Marsha Wharff swearing in the new Council, noting that the sentence should read "Marsha Wharff swore in Mayor Jim Mastin and Councilmembers Libby and Baldwin." MIS Ashiku/Kelly to approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 2, 1998, with correction to Page 1 as noted by Councilmember Libby, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 5. RIGHT TO APPEAL DECISION Mayor Mastin reviewed the appeal process. 6. CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Libby inquired about Item 6h and the bid process. She expressed her concern that the bid was awarded to a firm in Novato rather that a local business. She would like to see the City assist the local business economy. Community Services Director DeKnoblough discussed the Purchasing Department's bid process and noted that the computer leasing services for Ukiah Valley Conference Center is a client specific request. Mayor Mastin reported speaking to Bruce Jenny, Ukiah Valley Conference Center Manager, and was advised that the bid went out locally, but due to the type of specifications, no local business could deal with this on a long term basis. MIS Ashiku/Baldwin approving Items a-h of the Consent Calendar as follows: a. Approved Disbursements for the Month of November 1998; b. Adopted Resolution No. 99-28 Waiving the 60-Day Notification Requirement for Establishing a County Facility in the City Pursuant to Government Code §25351; c. Approved Budget Amendment Revision for the COPS MORE 96' Grant Purchase of Laptop Computers Previously Authorized; d. Awarded Contract to Steve Roberts Roofing for the Reroofing of the Street, Water, and Electric Service Building at the Corporation Yard, in the Amount of $10,980.38; e. Awarded Bid for Sodium Bisulfite Products to Pressure Vessel Service, Inc. for the Sum of $525 Per Ton; f. Awarded Bid for the Purchase of Clarifloc C-309 Liquid Polymer Product to Polydyne, Inc. for the Sum of $.60 Per Pound; g. Awarded Bid for the Purchase of SW-057 Liquid Polymer Product to Polydyne, Inc. for the Sum of $1.20 Per Pound; h. Received Report Regarding Purchase of Computer Leasing Services for Ukiah Valley Conference Center, in the Amount of $5,682.16. December 16, 1998 Page 2 The motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS No one came forward to address the Council. Mayor Mastin requested Item 9c be taken next due to audience interest. 9c. Request for City Participation in the 1999 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration Councilmember Ashiku inquired of the City Attorney if there is a potential conflict of interest since he sits on the Martin Luther King Scholarship Committee. He noted that he does not sit on the Planning Committee for scheduled events. City Attorney Rapport advised that Councilmember Ashiku should abstain from participating if there is a chance there would be a significant financial benefit to him. Assistant City Manager Flad reported receiving a letter from LaCretia Peoples, Committee Organizer for the January 17, 1999 Martin Luther King Day celebration. The Committee is requesting financial support from the City of Ukiah for their annual expenses which range between $3,000 and $5,000. The celebration has been an annual event for the past six years. He advised that in the past, the City has waived the insurance fee for the State Street banner, provided accounting and financial services at no cost, and offered a discounted rate for the use of the Conference Center. In addition, the City made donations of $500 in 1994 and 1997. He noted that the Planning Committee has not raised any other additional funds this year, and their current account balance is $622.85. He advised that, should Council decide to donate towards this celebration, one funding source is the Council's Special Event/Projects account which currently has $856.72 remaining for fiscal year 1998/99. Discussion followed concerning Community Grant funds and it was noted that the Planning Committee for the Martin Luther King celebration has not submitted an application for Community Grant funds in the past. LaCretia Peoples, Committee Organizer, advised that the Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration is scheduled for January 17 and 18, 1999 and is in its sixth year of celebration in Ukiah. An event is scheduled at Ukiah Players Theater and proceeds from ticket sales will go toward the $500 scholarship fund. A choir will be transported from Sacramento to sing at the Evangelical Free Church and this event will be free to the public. She noted that, in the past, they have relied on money from advanced ticket sales from the soul food dinner. Real Goods Trading Company donated a one-time contribution of $2,000 in 1996 for the scholarship fund, which is now depleted. She noted they will not be using the Conference Center this year. Councilmember Libby inquired as to the Committee's fund-raising efforts during the past year. Ms. Peoples advised that in the past they have relied on "passing the plate" during the event celebration and have used the money contributed by Real Goods Trading Company for their scholarship fund. A mailing list from Real Goods was used to solicit funds and she noted that Plowshares has been asking for donations to support the event. Councilmember Libby inquired about the Committee's plans for fund-raising within the next three weeks prior to the event. Ms. Peoples explained that they plan to solicit donations through a mailing and will "pass the plate" at their events. She explained the upcoming expenses to Council, which included food, mailing list, office supplies, lighting, sound, chartering a bus ($860) for the choir, and room and shelter for the choir in Ukiah. She noted that last year the dinner cost $1,900, however, this year it should be less. December 16, 1998 Page 3 Chedlyne Evans, member of the Planning Committee, discussed their need for financial assistance in meeting their operating expenditures. Their largest cost this year involves the transportation and housing of the 60-member choir. Considerable discussion followed concerning the celebration's benefit to the community. It was stressed by several Councilmembers that fund-raising efforts need to be made throughout the year in order for the Committee to be closer to meeting their financial needs for scheduled events. MIS KellylAshiku to contribute $500 from Council's Special Event/Projects account towards the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day observance, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 9. NEW BUSINESS 9a. Receive Report on Air Quality Study Prepared by the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District. Senior Planner Stump advised that over the past several years, concern about the quality of air in the Ukiah Valley has surfaced during the review of proposed development projects, as well as during long-range planning efforts. In response to this concern, the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District commissioned the preparation of a study to evaluate the quality of air in Mendocino County. The purpose of the study was to determine and examine the sources of pollutants in the air, and to propose ways in which the county could mitigate the impacts of growth on air quality. The study finds that the current quality of air in the Ukiah Valley is generally good. There is a problem, which is common throughout California, with large particulate matter (PM10). A key underlying theme throughout the study, which places a strong caveat on its findings, is that there are several critical uncertainties and knowledge gaps regarding emission patterns, air quality data, and meteorological observations. He discussed pollutant concerns with the ozone and PM10's, noting that the study projects dramatic decreases in the ozone precursors produced by vehicles between 1995 and the year 2020, even as growth occurs according to the General Plan. The study looked at the Emission Inventory and it lists a number of ways in which the emission estimates and overall inventory can be improved. The study also concludes that current air quality stations do not provide sufficient data to fully understand the causes of ozone formation and transport in the region. A number of recommendations are included in the study to improve data collection and overall monitoring. The study concludes that air quality in the Ukiah Valley is generally good. The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors have a number of options before them. One option would be to decide to significantly expand the monitoring and information gathering capabilities of the District. The City's Planning Department will continue to suggest feasible and reasonable mitigation measures when potential air quality impacts are identified, as well as the potential cumulative impacts to the quality of our local air. Discussion followed concerning the study with the recommendation that further research needs to be conducted. The cost to prepare the study was noted, with the anticipation of further financial obligation by the County for additional research. The City Council discussed ozone concerns and the possibility of Parkinson's Clusters associated with pulp mills in the area. Senior Planner Stump noted that the City was not invited to any public meetings with the County or their consultants. He discussed carbon monoxide pollutants and noted that staff received some information off the Internet regarding the monitoring of pollutants. Councilmember Ashiku felt there is a concern with PM10 in the Ukiah Valley and discussed problems with wood burning stoves. He recommended an ordinance be established in the City to disallow installation of wood burning stoves until they can meet clean air standards. There is a need to have a program for monitoring. December 16, 1998 Page 4 Mayor Mastin discussed the report and noted that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is supportive of clean burning wood stoves. He recommended staff gather information from other cities who have dealt with this situation. He further recommended the City investigate the possibility of EPA grants to assist in the replacement of, or conversion to, EPA approved wood stoves. Senior Planner Stump advised that all new wood burning stoves produced must adhere to EPA standards. It was also noted that gas stoves must comply to these standards as well. Councilmember Baldwin advised that he firmly supports an ordinance that wood burning stoves meet EPA standards upon the sale of a home. Consensus was to receive the report on the Air Quality Study prepared by the Mendocino County Air Quality Management District and that staff convey Council's concerns and recommendations to the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors. 9b.' Authorize Budget Amendment in the Amount of $17,134, to Fund Required anH Completed Change Order Work for the East Perkins Street Reconstruction Project. Specification No. 98-11, and Accept the Project Work as Complete and Authorize the Filing of the Notice of Completion, Public Works Director Kennedy discussed the extra work conducted by the contractor for the Perkins Street Reconstruction Project and advised that a Budget Amendment in the amount of $17,134 is needed to complete the Change Order work. He also recommended Council accept the Project work as complete and authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion. He noted the Budget Amendment would be accomplished by utilizing a portion of the unobligated fund balance in Fund 300 (Gas Tax Fund 2106), which is currently estimated at $22,250. MIS AshikulBaldwin to authorize Budget Amendment in the amount of $17,134 to fund required and completed Change Order work for the East Perkins Street Reconstruction Project, Specification No. 98-11 and to accept the Project work as complete, and authorize the filing of the Notice of Completion, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 9d. Award of Bid to $ol Dial Sound for the Replacement of the City Council Chambers Sound System and Approval of Budget Amendment in the Amount of $8,000 Community Services Director DeKnoblough reported that the sound system in the Council Chambers has broken down and is in need of replacement. He has been working with John Beatty of Sol Dial Sound to provide an interim system and acquire replacement components. Due to the age of the current system, compatible components are not available and, as such, replacement of the entire system is necessary. He discussed the proposal submitted by Sol Dial Sound and the bid process. He advised that the lapel system has proven to be cumbersome and that a hand held microphone would be more suitable. Some of the wiring and components of the current system will be salvaged and put on the surplus property list. John Beatty, Sol Dial Sound, advised that the wiring is intact and all speakers are now working. Some of the microphones need to be replaced and explained that the system is now working with a mixer he devised for the Concerts in the Park series. He explained that the current system has been on 24-hours a day and has caused some over heating problems. He recommended the room be secured once the new system is installed. Discussion followed concerning room ventilation for the new sound system, establishing a procedure for turning the system on and off since the Council Chambers is used by a number of organizations for various purposes, and the cost of maintaining the current system as opposed to purchasing a new system. Mr. Beatty advised that his business is located in Redwood Valley and that, due to the technical nature of the system, most local businesses would not be able to accommodate December 16, 1998 Page 5 the needs of the City. MIS KellylAshiku to award bid to Sol Dial Sound for replacement of Council Chambers sound system in the amount of $7,559.91 and approve budget amendment to increase the 100.1915.800.000 account by the amount of $8,000, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. Recessed: 8:00 p.m. Reconvened: 8:11 p.m. 9e. Discussion of City of Willits City Council Action on Foreclosure of North Coast Railroad Authority Loan and Effect on I. Ikiah Depot ~;ite City Manager Horsley discussed the matter of the City of Willits initiating foreclosure proceedings on their loan to the North Coast Railroad Authority (NCRA), noting that collateral for the loan included portions of the Ukiah and Willits railroad depot sites. Mendocino Transit Authority (MTA) representatives Jim Mastin and Bruce Richard were in attendance at the December 9, 1998 Willits City Council meeting, as well as NCRA Board members who requested that the Willits City Council not foreclose on the loan, as MTA had submitted an offer to the NCRA Board to purchase a portion of the Ukiah Depot Site for a regional intermodal transportation center. The Willits City Council voted to continue with the foreclosure proceedings and sale of the properties. She discussed a concern of the Willits City Council that NCRA is in a very delicate position with their contract rail operator and have just been given an order by the Federal Railroad Authority to stop operating for safety concerns. If they are forced to cease operations for a long period of time without further state and federal funding, they may not be able to repay the City of Willits for the loan or have the subject property to give them as collateral. She noted that the MTA proposal has a time requirement included within it to allow them to research the answers to several major problems at the Ukiah site. Willits is concerned that the escrow deadline of July, 1999, would be too long of a time period to hold off on foreclosure to insure the payment of their loan. She reported that at the NCRA meeting today, their Board indicated they would not use California Transportation Commission (CTC) money to pay off the loans with the City of Willits. They then went to the City of Willits and requested an extension of six days, but Willits declined their request. However, if there is a firm proposal to purchase the property, Willits would consider the proposal and most likely stop foreclosure procedures. The Willits City Council is concerned should NCRA file bankruptcy. Mayor Mastin noted there are a number of questions that need to be resolved before going any further with the Ukiah Depot Project. It was his opinion the loan is relatively secure. MTA has been working on this project for over two years and the Ukiah Depot location is excellent for this project. He estimated the cost to purchase the western portion of the Ukiah property to be $440,000. Bruce Richard, MTA General Manager, advised that the appraiser valued the Ukiah property at $982,000 but then deducted off site improvement costs, in addition to some on- site improvement costs, from that number. He advised that the grade crossing at Clay Street and the traffic light at Perkins and Leslie Streets are the most costly improvements. He discussed widening Perkins Street and adding a left turn lane at Leslie Street. Discussion followed concerning conditions of sale of the Ukiah property, grade crossing improvements, and the environmental rating of the railroad property to the east. The need for a surface easement across the property in order to access the property to the east for environmental cleanup purposes was addressed. It was noted that MTA is concerned with locating a transit center next to a toxic site for an unknown period of time. A lengthy discussion followed concerning the option of the City of Ukiah purchasing the Ukiah Railroad Depot property and the risks involved. The possibility of receiving Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) funds to assist in the study of the site was also considered. Discussion continued concerning the Ukiah Railroad Depot property with regard to its December 16, 1998 Page 6 appraisal as well as off site improvements and mitigations. City Attomey Rapport advised Council concerning liability issues related to the property and environmental cleanup. Mr. Richard advised that MTA approached the EPA about two months ago regarding the strip of private property between the railroad and Leslie Street and there is a good possibility that funding would be available to assist with study of the Leslie Street property. He noted that part of MTA's discussions with NCRA concerned setting up a meeting with Union Pacific (UP) and the EPA to address these matters. Dave Nelson, attorney for NCRA, advised that NCRA hasn't exhausted all avenues regarding foreclosure, and noted they would not let the property be foreclosed without some legal objection. He discussed environmental issues related to the eastern portion of the Ukiah site and noted that SP is required to remediate all environmental problems. He discussed EP^'s environmental cleanup list and noted that SP recommended the eastern portion of the Ukiah property be moved up on the list for cleanup and monitoring. The Ukiah site would then be listed for cleanup after the Willits site. He discussed MTA's offer to purchase the Ukiah parcels and noted that the purchase agreement provides for a surface easement. He advised that the NCRA Board made a recommendation to CTC today regarding the potential use of discretionary money and how it can be used for immediate needs. NCRA needs to get their accounting practices in order and is in the process of remediation. He discussed the Willits City Council declining their request for an extension of time. It was his opinion that if NCRA took $400,000 to repay Willits out of the $2 million allocated to NCRA from CTC, it would raise a number of problems. NCRA feels that the railroad property secures the loan. Mayor Mastin advised that Willits was asked if they would accept a letter of intent to purchase the Ukiah property and were advised that Willits will accept a proposal as long as they receive their money by January 13, 1999. He drew a map of the Ukiah parcels in question and discussed access to the eastern property near Leslie Street. City Attomey Rapport discussed the terms of sale and noted that the City of Willits may need to call a special meeting prior to the January 13 deadline. He further discussed penalties and fees associated with the loan. Councilmember Ashiku queried Mr. Richard if he would guarantee that MTA would purchase the Ukiah Depot Site. Mr. Richard explained that MTA will pay NCRA if they make all access improvements. It is not clear if the City will require all access agreements for MTA's development. MTA can't obtain grant money to buy the property until all issues are addressed. He advised that, speaking on behalf of MTA, he could not guarantee that MTA would purchase the Ukiah Depot Site. Councilmember Baldwin recommended that the matter be placed on the Ukiah City Council agenda for January 6, 1999, and that maps of the subject property be provided with a more detailed explanation of the subject property. If there were adequate access on the parcels, it would make a wonderful investment for the City. There is a need to also look at affordable housing within close proximity to the site. He recommended staff return with a proposal. Councilmember Libby objected to the fact that the matter has been placed in the City of Ukiah's lap and felt it is a very risky venture. Mayor Mastin questioned why Willits is initiating foreclosure at this point in time, even though they have been assured the loan is good. He discussed the 90 day period with regard to default of the loan. He inquired if City funds would be available by January 13, 1999, if a decision were to be made at the City Council meeting on January 6, 1999. December 16, 1998 Page 7 Finance Director Elton advised that funds could be made available by the January 13 deadline. Councilmember Kelly recommended the City look at the entire parcel and agreements to determine the benefit to the City, as well as options available. She expressed her frustration working on this project over the years. City Manager Horsley advised that staff is currently investigating financing sources available should Council desire to pursue purchase of the Ukiah Railroad property. Mr. Richard, on behalf of MTA, thanked the City Council for considering this matter and noted that City Manager Horsley, city staff members, and Mayor Mastin have worked very hard on this project. 9f. Review and Discussion Relative to Cost of Living Increase for City Council City Manager Horsley advised that during recent employee negotiation discussions, the Council considered many of the employee's concerns and requests. She has met with employees over the past several weeks on various items, and they have expressed that the Council's raise of 5% continues to be an item of discussion among the employees, since the employees received no cost of living increase in 1996 and 1997, and their recent contract for two years averaged less than 5%. She discussed the compensation history for each Unit, the average increase of the Units as a whole for each year, and the total cumulative average. She explained that before 1996, the cumulative average of employee Unit compensation equaled 5.6%. Adding in the two years of no increase, plus the last two years of compensation agreements, the cumulative average equals 4.16%. The recently approved Council increase based on 5%, equates to a total monthly salary of $465. If 4.16% were used, the Council salary would equal $437 a month. Mayor Mastin advised that he felt the recent Council salary increase was creating some problems in the employee negotiation process and requested the City Manager to prepare a chart reflecting compensation. City Attomey Rapport advised that the statute concerning reduction of Councilmembers' pay is not clear, noting the statute is mainly concerned with increases. If a decrease in pay is approved by the Council, it could become effective for the seated Councilmembers immediately. Discussion followed concerning how the employee compensation chart was calculated. It was noted that the compensation chart was based on percentages, not dollars. Councilmember Kelly expressed concern with parity with regard to employees and City Council compensation. It was her opinior~ that the $300 per month Councilmembers receive was in the nature of an honorarium, rather than a wage, and, according to her pay stud, City Councilmembers are not making minimum wage. Councilmember Libby felt that since the previous Council had recently analyzed Councilmembers' compensation, there is no need to revisit the matter at this time. She supported City workers, but felt the matter had already been addressed by the previous City Council. Councilmember Baldwin discussed wages within the private sector. He questioned why the previous City Council waited a number of years to consider an increase and noted the difficulty in determining the number of hours a Councilmember spends on City matters. Many people in the community are struggling to obtain a decent wage and he encouraged more community involvement by lower income residents. City Manager Horsley recommended Council consider an annual evaluation of their compensation and that it be reflected in the budget. She noted that many employees feel that the Council works many hours for minimal compensation, however, their salary increases should be more consistent with City employee salary increases on an annual basis. She noted that, should Council determine the need to receive an adequate wage for their time spent on City items, the matter could be presented to the voters. December 16, 1998 Page 8 MIS Baldwin/Ashiku to direct staff to prepare a formula of City Council salaries without the two year period, in the form of dollars, rather than percentages, and for staff to present an ordinance for their review at the next meeting, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Libby, Baldwin, Ashiku, Kelly, and Mayor Mastin. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. Councilmember Kelly noted that she is not advocating that the City Council receive minimum wage for their efforts, but rather to draw attention to the fact that their pay stubs do not accurately reflect their wage calculation per hour. 10. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Libby reported attending both the Police Department and City employees Christmas parties, as well as the Sun House/Guild party. The Guild adopted their 1999 budget and have two openings on their Board. The Guild would like to note that the official name of the museum is the Sun House Grace Hudson Museum. Councilmember Baldwin reported that he was unable to attend the Inland Water and Power meeting, however, no action was taken. He felt the City Council should adopt a living wage requirement for City residents in the near future. Councilmember Ashiku had nothing to report. Councilmember Kelly reported attending the meeting of the Local Government Commission and reception at McDowell Vineyards and noted that Virginia Strom-Martin and Wes Chesbro were in attendance. They were very interested in receiving input from cities and counties. She attended the MCOG meeting on December 7, and they upheld allocation of funds from the federal government with comparable formula to what was presented by Rick Kennedy at the prior City Council meeting. The City should receive about $1 million. She reported that Planning Consultant Phil Dow, has submitted his resignation and an RFP will be sent out for Mary Hyatt's position. She reported that Colleen Henderson, from Assemblywoman Virginia Strom-Martin's office, inquired as to the City's priorities. She also reported taking an airplane ride over the Ukiah valley today on the complementary COM-Air flight. It is their hope to begin commuter service by April 1, 1999. She attended a luncheon with Mendocino County Supervisor Shoemaker and Paul Tichinen, from Mendocino County Office of Education (MCOE), regarding property to the west of the jail, and east of Ukiah Players Theater, on Low Gap Road. The City owns the property and there is currently a 40-year agreement under Redevelopment that MCOE has access to that property. The Skateboard Committee has determined that the Low Gap Road site is suitable for their needs. She discussed possible funding available for construction of the Skateboard Park at this site, in addition to the possibility of MCOE purchasing the property from the City. She reported attending a meeting of the Mendocino County Mental Health Board and the City Council's previous meeting was discussed. Mental Health is interested in working closely with the Ukiah Police Department and staff and encouraged City staff to attend their Board meetings. She also attended a Mendocino County Public Health Advisory meeting and discussed the recent tobacco settlement, noting that a significant amount of money will be coming into Mendocino County. Mayor Mastin reported attending both the Ukiah Police Department and City employee's Christmas parties, as well as the Sun House Guild party. He also attended the swearing in ceremonies of State officials in Sacramento. He discussed the complementary plane ride he took on COM-Air and felt they will be a great asset to the community. They estimate the cost to fly from Ukiah to Oakland or Sacramento will be $49. He briefly discussed the on going negotiations with NCRA and Willits City Council. NCRA has had to deal with many obstacles over the past few years. December 16, 1998 Page 9 He advised that he and Councilmember Libby discussed the alternate seat on the Inland Power and Water Agency, and it was agreed that he will resume the seat as the alternate. He noted how pleased he is with the input displayed by new Councilmembers Baldwin and Libby and noted there are some difficult issues at hand. 11. CITY MANAGER/DIRECTOR REPORTS City Manager Horsley reported that she received a call to sit on the TAC meeting for the County. She also noted that there will be a reception with City staff and the Main Street Program in January to get to know each other. Adjournment: 10:04 p.m. to sit as Ukiah Redevelopment Agency. Reconvened: 10:10 p.m. 12. CLOSED SESSION Adjourned at 10:10 p.m. to Closed Session. ag Conference with Legal Council Regarding Existing Litigation - G.C. §54956.9(a) - Citizens for Responsive (~ovemment and California Preservation Foundation vs. City of Ukiah, Mendocino County Superior Court Case No. 79997 12b. Conference with Real Property Negotiator Property: Assessor's Parcel No. 003-330-66 Negotiating Party: Ryan Under Negotiation: Terms and Conditions of Purchase 8. OLD BUSINESS a. Discussion and Approval of Acquisition of Real Property, Assessor's Parcel No. 003-330-66, and Authorize City Manager to Execute Purchase Agreement~ No action was taken by Council. 13. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 11:30 p.m. Marie Ulvila, City Clerk December 16, 1998 Page 10