HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 09-18-96 spec. meetingMINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF UKIAH - September 18, 1996
The City Council convened in a special meeting, of which the agenda was legally noticed and
posted, at 6:04 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Civic Center, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah,
California. Roll was taken and the following Councilmembers were PRESENT: Mastin, Malone,
Wattenburger, Shoemaker, and Mayor Schneiter. ABSENT: None. Staff present: Assistant City
Manager Harris, Planning Director Sawyer, and City Clerk Giuntoli.
2. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS '
No one came forward.
3~,
3a. Jennifer Puser
PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICANT INTERVIEW
Mayor Schneiter outlined the process for conducting the interview, and asked Ms. Puser if she
would like to comment prior to the beginning of the interview.
Jennifer Puser, Planning Commission applicant, briefly reviewed the information on her
application, stating she had just recently returned to the community and would be in the area for at
least the next year. She relayed her concern relative to the "big box" retail stores she observed on
the edge of town; however, she realized the importance of economic growth.
Mayor Schneiter asked if she had adequate time available to serve on the Commission, and
requested she describe her view regarding growth in the community.
Ms. Puser replied she felt she did have the available time for the commitment. She further
commented she was in favor of encouraging growth, but in a positive way through infill and
redevelopment. In her opinion, a business such as Wal-Mart does not bring jobs, but instead drains
business from those in the downtown area. She would prefer to fill the vacant buildings in the
downtown core rather than see new buildings constructed on the outskirts of town.
Discussion followed regarding the effect Wal-Mart has had on the downtown area, wherein it was
noted sales tax revenues of the local businesses actually increased after Wal-Mart's arrival.
Ms. Puser continued by stating she prefers compact, mixed-use development where people can
walk to their destinations, similar to small European communities. She would advocate promoting
a City where people want to come and spend their money. She personally does not like "parking lot"
shopping, but orefers unique stores where she knows the shop owners.
Councilmember Wattenburger asked how she would feel being the sole dissenting opinion of a
board, both on single issues or a multitude of issues.
Ms. Puser replied that would present no problem for her; she has often been in opposition and is
not intimidated. Although she would prefer that people agree, she realizes everyone has their own
opinion.
Council further queried the applicant regarding the City's General Plan, transportation issues, and
where her loyalty would lie in decision-making.
Ms. Puser replied she knew little about the General Plan or the process by which it was developed.
On the East Coast she used mass transit. She does not own a car and therefore does not pollute
the environment. She rides her bicycle and walks to where she has to go. She would like to see
public transportation improved, and residents informed of what their choices are.
She further commented that regarding decision-making, she would state her argument and backup
information, and would take the whole picture into consideration. She would attempt to work a
compromise through changes, and would ask what is best for the community both' for the future and
beyond.
4. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:25 p.m. to the regularly scheduled
meeting of the City Council on September 18, 1996 at 6:30 p.m.
Marcje/~iuntoli?City Clerk ' '
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Special Meeting
September 18, 1996