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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 03-19-03 MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19, 2003 The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on March 19, 2003, the notice for which had been legally noticed and posted, at 6:35 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll was taken and the following Councilmembers were present: Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. Staff present: Public Utilities Director Barnes, Administrative Analyst Burck, Interim Fire Chief Cohn, Community Development Director DeKnoblough, Police Administrative Captain Dewey, Assistant City Manager Fierro, Personnel Officer Harris, City Manager Horsley, City Attorney Rapport, Airport Assistant Richey, Police Captain Walker, Police Chief Williams, and City Clerk Ulvila. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Police Captain Walker led the Pledge of Allegiance. 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4a. Regular Meeting of March 5, 2003 City Clerk Ulvila requested that the draft minutes for the March 5, 2003 regular meeting be continued to the next meeting. 5. RIGHT TO APPEAL Mayor Larson read the appeal process. 6. CONSENT CALENDAR M/S Smith/Baldwin approving items a through g of the Consent Calendar as follows: a. Approved Disbursements for Month of February 2003; b. Awarded Bid for Liquid Ferric Chloride to Kemiron Companies, Inc. for the Sum of $385.22 Per Dry Ton; c. Received Notification to the City Council Regarding the Purchase of Chlorine Products From Pioneer America, Inc. for the Sum of $89.49 For 150 lb. Cylinders and $434.90 For One-Ton Cylinders; d. Received Report to City Council Regarding Purchase of Bunker and Top Dressing Sand For the Ukiah Municipal Golf Course From Borges Transfer in the Amount of $5,990; e. Awarded Bid for 2003 3/4 Ton Truck With Low Profile Service Body to Hoblit Motors for the Sum of $21,772.46; Adopted Ordinance 1044 Adding Section 7154.5 to the Ukiah City Code Prohibiting the Parking of Vehicles That Are Six Feet or More in Height on Certain Streets Or Portions Thereof; g. Accepted the Work as Complete for Structure Demolition at 410 Waugh Lane,Ukiah, Specification No. 02-29, and Authorize the Filing of the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 7. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 1 of 14 No one came forward to address Council. Councilmember Baldwin requested that New Business item "8e" be heard before item "8d" due to the possibility of numerous public input on item "e". Seeing no objection, Council consensus was to hear item "8e" before item "8d" on the agenda. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8a. Report to Council Regarding Appointment to the Library Advisory Board City Clerk Ulvila advised that a Press Release was sent out weekly advertising for the vacancy. As of the deadline of March 13th no applications were received. She requested direction from Council with regard to filling this vacancy. Councilmember Baldwin explained that he previously served on the Board but was unable to attend every meeting. He volunteered to serve on the Library Board again. M/S Larson/Smith appointing Councilmember Baldwin to the Library Advisory Board, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8b. Report Concerning Possible Adoption of Anti Segway Human Transporter Ordinance Police Chief Williams advised that the Ukiah Police Department staff researched the Segway devise, SB1018, existing vehicle codes, and the proposed Anti-Segway Ordinance. He discussed provisions of SB 1918 and noted that local authorities may adopt ordinances with respect to the time, place, and manner of operation of the devise. Studies are currently being conducted in other cities and some cities are monitoring issues that could arise involving liability insurance, police enforcement and Segway parking in downtown areas. It is the Police Department's recommendation that the City of Ukiah's Traffic Engineering Committee be asked to study this issue and make recommendations to the City Council. Betty Green, Jane Kardas, and Rex Eiffert voiced their support for the City controlling the use of Segway devices in the City and that they not be allowed on sidewalks due to safety concerns for pedestrians. Councilmember Smith recommended the matter be referred to the Traffic Engineering Committee. Councilmember Andersen inquired if there is a way to require a permit for the device instead of banning it. Once a permit or license is obtained, the operator would be informed of where the device could be utilized in the City. Police Chief Williams explained that there is no mechanism in place for licensing because they have been identified as a "pedestrian" by the Governor's office. However, there is an age restriction to operate the device. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 2 of 14 Discussion followed regarding how the device may be operated and the behavioral aspect of its operators. The issuance of operating permits was also discussed, as well as controlling the use of the device in certain areas of the City. The bill that was signed into law gives local jurisdictions the authority to adopt an ordinance with respect to the time in which the device is operated, the places it is operated, and the manner of operation. The heaviness of the device was noted as it may create a danger to pedestrians walking on sidewalks. Concern was also expressed that there are no restrictions as far as safety gear, such as a helmet. Mayor Larson inquired of the City Attorney with regard to SB 1918 and if banning the device entirely would be an infringement on an implied right in this ordinance. City Attorney Rapport explained that it specifically says that the local agency can prohibit them entirely in its jurisdiction. Council should consider how much regulation and what types of regulation to include in the ordinance. It was the consensus of the City Council to refer the matter to the Traffic Engineering Committee for further study and analysis. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8c. Rel~ort Regardinq a Potential Racial Profiling Incident and Department Percentage of Bilingual Employees Police Chief Williams advised that at the February 19, 2003 City Council meeting concerns were expressed regarding an incident of possible racial profiling by the Ukiah Police Department and the ethnic composition of the Department. He described an incident that occurred on January 1, 2003 when a vehicle was stopped. He explained that the conduct and conversation of the Ukiah Police Officer was captured on the police vehicle's Mobile Audio Visual unit, and staff has verified his conduct by personally viewing the tape. Using the California Penal Code as a guide to racial profiling, the Department could not find evidence of racial profiling in the Officer's stop. He explained that law prohibits racial profiling and the Ukiah Police Department's policy conforms to that law and does not tolerate the act of profiling on a racial basis. Upon questioning by Councilmember Andersen, he explained that there are mandated Peace Officer Standards of Training (POST) classes that are conducted at the Academy that each officer receives. He further explained that an officer has to have specific or probable cause to stop someone for enforcement purposes. As a cautionary note, he felt it is important for the City Council and the general public to recognize that the mechanisms for filing complaints and investigations are in place. Councilmember Baldwin inquired if there is a new directive regarding the terrorism alert that might be a form of racial profiling. Police Chief Williams explained that the City's Police Department has to operate under the mandates of law, not only local, but also state and federal laws. It is important to understand the difference between profiling and racial profiling, which he went on to discuss in detail. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 3 of 14 Mayor Larson inquired if the person who brought this matter to Council's attention has met with the Police Chief or viewed the video. Police Chief Williams explained that staff has been unable to contact that person. He described what transpired when the driver initially called the Police Department the next day to voice concerns over the traffic stop and he felt it was not handled well at the time as to giving the individual proper direction on how to proceed. Sergeant Barkley eventually called the phone number left by the individual and spoke to the passenger of the car and explained the circumstances for the stop. He explained that the incident brought to light an issue on how to advise individuals better when they make an inquiry with the Police Department about possible racial profiling. Ana Araiza, Cindee Drive, inquired if an individual was illegally in the United States, if they would be deported for having filed a complaint. Police Chief Williams advised that all individuals have due process. David Rose, Migrant Education Program Coordinator for Mendocino County and Chairman of the Latino Coalition, advised that the passenger of the vehicle was the employer of the driver and that when City staff called their office, the employer was able to address the issue with them. He explained that the driver is a member of his department and had a fearful reaction to the incident. Rex Eiffert, Ukiah, referred to the incident that recently occurred at the Wal-Mart shopping center where a police officer and security guard were injured in an armed confrontation with an individual. Ana Araiza, Ukiah, inquired if Council could postpone this matter to April since the driver of the vehicle asked her to make the request of Council. Mayor Larson explained that staff should make another effort to contact the driver and meet regarding this matter, then report back to the City Council regarding the outcome. Police Chief Williams explained that staff's research indicates that the Ukiah Police Department has the highest percentage of Hispanic and bilingual personnel of all law enforcement agencies in the County, except for State Highway Patrol. Last November, the Department met with Latino community members to request assistance in recruiting bilingual officers. In addition, the Personnel Department sends police officer recruitment flyers to seven targeted minority groups in the Ukiah Valley. Recognizing the ongoing need within the community, the Department staff is meeting to discuss additional methods to recruit bilingual officers. City Manager Horsley advised that she met with members of the Latino Coalition and there were many practical suggestions that came from the group. Staff will be meeting with the Finance Department staff to look at ways to increase communication and service with utility signups, etc. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 4 of 14 David Rose distributed copies of the Dymally-Alatorre Bilingual Services Act to the City Council. He noted that certain sections of the Act specifically refer to local government agencies. He read a draft "letter of demand" and noted that there are many community agencies that are concerned with the lack of bilingual services provided by the City. He addressed Police Chief Williams and stated that this is in no way a direct attack on the Police Department. He felt the meeting yesterday with City staff was very fulfilling. He wanted this matter to become an issue of priority and for the City to take immediate action. It was the consensus of the City Council to receive the report. ag NEW BUSINESS Councilmember Baldwin - Discussion and Possible Action Regarding: i. Introduction of Ordinance Establishing a Five-Member Paths, Open Space and Creeks Commission Councilmember Baldwin read the letter that he wrote to the City Council that was included in his report to Council. There was some discussion concerning the agenda format for Councilmember Baldwin's items and it was the consensus of the City Council that each item should be dealt with separately. Councilmember Baldwin explained that the rationale for creating a separate commission is to lend this important issue significance to the community. He provided Council with excerpts from the General Plan Open Space and Conservation element and the Circulation and Transportation element. He felt that it is clear that the Planning Commission and the Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission do not have the time to focus on these issues. The new Commission would consist of five members and each member of the City Council would appoint one Commission member. Councilmember Rodin was supportive of the idea, however she suggested having a Mendocino County representation on the Commission to make sure there are compatible views between the City and the County, and they could work together regarding acquisition of open space and land outside the City limits. M/S Baldwin/Rodin introducing Ordinance by title only with substitute language for Section 1021 that the process of appointment be adopted by the City Council and that this membership consist of five members. Mayor Larson stated that he is not supportive because he felt that a joint commission is more appropriate. As long as the City is addressing the matter, the County will not do anything about it. Councilmember Smith concurred with Mayor Larson's concern with the potential lack of County participation and also on the basis that it does not include the designation of a property owner from the Westside hills as a member of the Committee, given that the primary interest is the Westside hills. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 5 of 14 Councilmember Andersen voiced his support for the Ordinance because the concerns expressed by Mayor Larson are the reasons why the City should create this Commission in the City. He felt that even if the City did not create the Commission, the County still would not do anything. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, and Baldwin. NOES: Councilmember Smith and Mayor Larson. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. City Clerk Ulvila read the title of the Ordinance, "An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Ukiah Adding Division 1, Chapter 4, Article lB, Sections 1020-1025 of the Ukiah Municipal Code Creating the Paths, Open Space, and Creeks Commission." M/S Baldwin/Rodin introducing Ordinance; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, and Baldwin. NOES: Councilmember Smith and Mayor Larson. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. ii. Public Access at the Fish Hatchery Site Councilmember Baldwin proposed that the City Council direct Staff to develop at least two detailed options for guided tours or limited public access by permit to the City owned Fish Hatchery site located in Gibson Creek Canyon and report back to the City Council at its first meeting in June of this year. He also recommended that Council direct staff to provide the exact dimensions and locations of this site. Discussion followed concerning the Fish Hatchery site and providing guided tours to the site. Issues related to staff time and identifying the exact location were addressed. M/S Baldwin/Andersen directing staff to develop a plan for conducting guided tours or limited public access to the City owned Fish Hatchery site and to stake out the site, then report back to the Council at its first meeting in June; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. iii. Western Hills Open Space Acquisition and Preservation Councilmember Baldwin proposed that the City Council direct staff to make western hills open space acquisition and preservation a top priority for City grant applications and State Park Bond funding proposals. Max Eiffert addressed Council with regard to his concern that open space acquisition may result in the taking of private property and making it open space. He also addressed the matter of eminent domain. He stated that he is not supportive of a governmental agency telling him who can hike on his property. Upon an inquiry by Councilmember Andersen as to the City's current priorities for grant applications and State Park Bond funding proposals, City Manager Horsley explained that the City has applied or plans to apply for grants for repair of the City pool, Riverside Park, and playground equipment. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 6 of 14 Community Development Director DeKnoblough discussed the three priorities mentioned by the City Manager, the status of each project, and the funding mechanisms available. There are smaller projects, such as Anton Stadium, that also need to be completed. Councilmember Rodin was of the opinion that directing staff to make western hills open space acquisition and preservation a top priority does not involve acquiring property through eminent domain. She discussed the process of a conservation easement whereby a property owner is paid fair market value for their property in exchange for an agreement not to develop the property. Councilmember Baldwin advised that he is not suggesting the City pursue the eminent domain process for acquiring land. He explained that Sonoma County set up a quarter cent sales tax district in 1978 and it's called the Agriculture Preservation and Open Space Conservation District. They work with private property owners who are interested in selling the development rights to their property and/or selling their property. He discussed property owners working with the Inland Mendocino Land Trust, the new Paths, Creeks, and Open Space Commission, and the City Council for either a conservation easement and/or public acquisition by mutual agreement. Councilmember Smith stated that he is interested in keeping the top priorities that have already been established so that the pool can be repaired and Riverside Park completed. Mayor Larson expressed his concern with singling out the western hills. As far as prioritizing open space acquisitions, the City already has a number of priorities and he did not want this proposal to subvert those priorities. He noted his concern for having the pool repaired. Councilmember Andersen explained that the reason why the western hills are in the City limits is because the residents of Ukiah, years ago, voted to annex that land because of its natural aesthetic beauty. They wanted to protect it and make sure including it in the City limits did not compromise it. He would be more comfortable with a broader statement such as, "To direct staff to make open space acquisition and preservation a priority for City grant applications and State Park Bond funding proposals" instead of singling out "western hills open space acquisition" and making it a "top priority". M/S Andersen/Baldwin directing staff to make preservation a priority for City grant applications proposals. open space acquisition and and State Park Bond funding Discussion followed with regard to acquiring state and federal grant funds for open space acquisition and/or open space easements. It was noted that there is a significant amount of money in Park Bond funding specifically for this type of project. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 7 of 14 iv. Diversion From Gibson Creek Councilmember Baldwin proposed to ask staff to determine the number, location, origin, and State permits for all diversions of water from Gibson Creek and any other year round western hills creek running into the City limits. He assumed that some of these creeks help replenish the aquifer that some of the City's wells draw from. City Manager Horsley advised that City staff does not have the expertise or knowledge to do the work suggested by Councilmember Baldwin. City Attorney Rapport advised that the permission of the property owner would need to be obtained or some other legal authority in order to enter onto private property for that purpose. The City couldn't do that without an administrative warrant or some legal authority to enter onto private property. He noted that if a property owner has riparian rights, they can divert water for immediate use on their property and would not need permission from the state. Jan Moore was of the opinion that this is an important issue and that other creeks in the City should be included in the study so that the City will know who is using the water and how much. Dave Hull, owner of property in the western hills as well as on Gibson and Doolan Creeks, noted that there is a shortfall of money and the City would be spending a considerable amount of money on some of these proposals. If the concern is truly that the water is being diverted and taken from the public's use, it would be cheaper to have the water tested rather than the expense of trying to figure out if someone is diverting with or without a permit. Councilmember Baldwin was of the opinion that staff could first ask property owners for assistance with regard to whether or not they are diverting water and what type of permit they obtained. Councilmember Andersen was of the opinion that water in the Ukiah Valley and the City limits is an important issue and he was supportive of staff providing more resource analysis of water and other issues that may affect the City. He supported voluntary compliance. Councilmember Smith was of the opinion that perhaps staff could obtain information by calling the State Water Resources Control Board or send a letter to the property owners asking them to provide information. Mayor Larson felt that this is all premature and that in the future, we will be seeing some means of major hydrological studies of all ground water systems and aquifers in the valley floor. It's not a source of water that we are dependent upon now nor is the investment of staff time or expense to the City to explore the matter feasible at this time. He was not supportive of the proposal. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 8 of 14 Motion Baldwin directing staff to contact property owners adjacent to any year round stream or creek running into our City limits to determine if they are using water and diverting water from those creeks. Motion died for lack of a second. M/S Andersen/Baldwin to direct staff to contact the State Water Resources Control Board and inquire about all permits currently on Gibson and Doolan Creeks and report back to the City Council at its first meeting in June. Mayor Larson stated that he recognizes the importance of creeks and the importance of fish spawning habitats, and that it falls under the jurisdiction of the Fish and Game Department, not the City of Ukiah. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, and Baldwin. NOES: Councilmember Smith and Mayor Larson. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. v. Establishment of Policy to Use Proceeds from Sale of City-Owned Surplus Property for Open Space Acquisition Councilmember Baldwin proposed that the City establish a policy for the City Council to place a minimum of 30% of the proceeds from the sale of City owned surplus property into the City's Open Space Acquisition and Preservation Fund. He amended it with the proviso that this policy in no way impedes or negates previous Council plans to utilize the sale of the North State Street Fire Station proceeds to purchase a skateboard park site if such a purchase proves necessary to establish a park at the earliest time feasible. Councilmember Smith opposed this recommendation especially after the Council's earlier meeting today regarding the state of the City's budget and on the basis that he would not want to commit any money to such a project at this time because we do not know if we will need it for ongoing budget operations. Councilmember Baldwin explained that if the City has an opportunity to apply for one- time access to grant funds, that they be used for acquisition and are not counted upon for ongoing operations. M/S Baldwin/Andersen to make it a policy of this City Council to place a minimum of 30% of the proceeds from the sale of City-owned property into the City's Open Space Acquisition and Preservation Fund, with the proviso that this policy in no way impedes the previous Council plans to utilize the North State Street Fire Station sale proceeds to purchase a skateboard park site if such a purchase proves necessary to establish a skateboard park at the earliest time feasible. City Manager Horsley requested that, if the motion passes, Council place the money in Fund 690 where funds can be moved or used for something else if it's needed. She referred to a major drainage issue on Cleveland Lane that needs to be addressed, the widening of Waugh Lane, and there are other projects that the City has no funding for. She recommended that Council look at it in its totality and decide where they want to spend the money if there is extra money from some proceeds. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 9 of 14 Councilmember Rodin agreed and noted that with the state reserving money for schools, it doesn't allow for flexibility that's needed as finances change in the City. She explained that there are grant funds available for acquisition. She felt it is premature to reserve the money at this time. Mayor Larson concurred. M/S Baldwin/Andersen recommending an amendment to the motion that a minimum of 30% of the funds be placed in Fund #699, the Special Projects Fund. M/S Baldwin/Andersen deleting the wording "open space" from his motion and the funding would then go into a general category in the Special Projects Fund. Mayor Larson stated that he would reluctantly support this concept because it allows the City some flexibility. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES' None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. vi. Stream Access in the Western Hill~ Councilmember Baldwin recommended that the matter be continued to a later date. Councilmember Andersen requested that the matter be continued to the second meeting in April and that the City Attorney provide a report regarding prescriptive rights, applied dedication, and year round access. It was the consensus of the City Council to reagendize the matter to the second meeting in April. 8. NEW BUSINESS 8d. Westside Hills Fire Protection Status Report Interim Fire Chief Cohn advised the City Manager had requested that he provide the Council with a summary regarding fire protection issues in the western hills. The report was specifically focused on what is in place for regulation of construction in the western hills area. The report discusses the legal basis for the requirements for construction in the western hills and it's based on the California Fire Code and planning regulations that have been adopted by the City of Ukiah. Councilmember Baldwin inquired as to what extent did the Hillside Constraint Study that was completed for the City impact this report. Fire Chief Cohn was unfamiliar with that study. He discussed the difference in definition of terms between "hazard" and "risk". When structures are built and people inhabit them, there is a risk. He explained that the Planning Department and Fire Marshal have done a major revision of the west hillside area regulations and they have been working closely to develop a comprehensive planning regulation relative to development. It was his opinion that those that have developed the western hills have done a very good job as far a taking care to mitigate some of the hazards and risks of Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 10 of 14 the development. He continued with discussion of the California Department of Forestry proceeding with their project of fuel breaks and their target date for completion is June 2003. It was the consensus of the City Council to receive the report. am NEW BUSINESS Adoption of Resolution of Intention for the Miscellaneous PERS Coverage Group to Amend the PERS Retirement Contract Personnel Officer Harris advised that in October 2002, the City Council approved Addendums to the Memorandum of Understanding's (MOU) governing those bargaining units covered by the Public Employee Retirement System (PERS) Miscellaneous Coverage Group, authorizing the amendment to the PERS Contract to amend to the 2.7% at 55-retirement benefit. This proposed amendment was negotiated in such a manner that the cost for this benefit is being paid for by the employees from cost of living increases, rather than an additional percentage being paid by the City. Adoption of the Resolution of Intention by the City Council will enable the bargaining units to take the PERS mandated secret ballot vote which is required because with this amendment would come an increase in the employee contribution from 7% to 8% when the amendment becomes effective. Paul Richey, Airport Assistant and a unit representative for the Miscellaneous Unit, explained that when the units went into negotiations with the City Manager, she made it very clear that the benefits would have to be paid for by the employees through MOU agreements. An employee election was held to decide how to pay for this benefit and the employees overwhelmingly approved it. M/S Smith/Andersen adopting Resolution 2003-30, Resolution of Intention to approve an amendment to contract between the Board of Administration California Public Employees' Retirement System and the City Council of the City of Ukiah; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Rodin, Andersen, Smith, Baldwin, and Mayor Larson. NOES: None. ABSTAIN: None. ABSENT: None. al NEW BUSINESS Selection of City Representatives and Approval of Meeting in Washington, D.C. to Present City of Ukiah Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Project White Paper to Congressional Representative and Senators to Secure Grant Funding Public Utilities Director Barnes advised that Administrative Analyst Burck has been working very closely with Reed Smith, a subcontractor for Brown and Caldwell. The City requested that Reed Smith assist the City in searching for alternate funding methods for the City's Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Project. Administrative Analyst Burck explained that the White Paper is needed as a first step to explain the project to the members of the legislature and to defend and make the argument for the case of grant funding for the project; the need for the community, the importance of the project to the community, and why it should be funded under this grant program. In accordance with that, the White Paper was written and was Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 11 of 14 submitted to Congressman Thompson's office and to Senators Boxer and Feinstein's offices. According to the City's consultant, Chris Rissetto who is employed with Reed Smith, it is strongly recommended that, in order for this White Paper to be one of the top three priority projects for this area, a delegation from the City of Ukiah should go to Washington, D.C. and present the White Paper to the Congressional representative and the Senators. Councilmember Smith advised that he will be in Washington, D.C. on April 8-10 for an NCPA meeting and volunteered to attend the sessions with the legislators on behalf of the City. He noted that since NCPA is paying his expenses, there would not be an expense to the City for him to participate while he is there. Councilmember Andersen stated that he is skeptical about the reality of meeting with the Senators because they don't have a lot of time to meet with local elected officials. The reason why he is skeptical is because $2.2 million is a lot of money given the number of other projects competing for these funds. He is also skeptical because he didn't think there has been enough interaction with the local field representatives from Congressman Thompson and the Senators' offices. It was his opinion that the City will see more results from working with the people locally to really push this project. Administrative Analyst Burck discussed the specific topics relative to the project that City representatives could discuss with the Congressman and the Senators, stressing the immediate need for such a large project. It was the consensus of the City Council that Mayor Larson, City Councilmember Smith, City Manager Horsley, and Administrative Analyst Burck would travel to Washington, D.C. in April and speak with legislators to request funding for this project. 9. COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Rodin reported that she attended a workshop in Sacramento with the City Manager on March 12th about the California Budget Project. The next day she attended a meeting in Yosemite regarding water issues. Information was provided at the water meeting concerning water recycling, managing urban runoff, and integrated water management. At the end of the conference, the Executive Manager for Policy Development from the Inland Empire Utilities Agency in Southern California spoke. She distributed the list of principles suggested by this speaker and thought that the City Council should consider adopting them and review how we can deal with water, using these principles as guidelines. Councilmember Andersen reported that he attended the Women's History Month event in Ukiah. He attended the first meeting of the Housing Element and everyone was in attendance and it was a fruitful meeting. They discussed a grand vision for housing and there is interest in mixed-use development and cluster housing to various degrees. There was mention of the need for more affordable housing for special needs people in the community. They will meet with a consultant within the next three weeks. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 12 of 14 He has been attending the Board of Supervisors' meetings for his job, watching the County budget process, and it's interesting to see they are beginning to grapple with making major cuts to mental health, social services, and other programs as well. Councilmember Smith reported that at its October 2002 meeting, the NCPA Commission approved resolutions authorizing, not to exceed $60 million, hydroelectric plant refunding bonds to be issued in April 2003 for tax reasons. The transaction was approved in October and the net result of that transaction is that NCPA will be paying an effective interest rate significantly lower than the 5.5% interest rate on the 1993 bonds being refunded. Ukiah has 2.04% interest in the hydroelectric projects and these bonds. Since we voted to approve the bond swap, he will be voting to approve the documents that will facilitate the swap. He attended the Inland Water and Power Agency meeting in Vice-Mayor Baldwin's place. He noted that at a previous Council meeting, there was discussion concerning the role of what the County Water Agency ought to be and what is the role of the Inland Water and Power Commission. Mr. Stretch, Director of the County Water Agency, had written a letter to the chair of the Committee, Janet Pauli. It was decided that the letter would be referred to a subcommittee of the Commission, since it contains some suggested options, and then brought back to the Commission at a future meeting with a recommendation for action or response. City Manager Horsley is the City's representative on the subcommittee. He will be in Washington, D.C. for two things at the first part of April. Mayor Larson reported on the temporary success of the Air Attack Coalition in keeping the Air Attack Base in this year's budget and increasing the likelihood that a strong impression was made in Sacramento with the legislature and the Board of Forestry. The Board of Forestry will be meeting in Lake County next month. 10. CITY MANGER/CITY CLERK REPORTS City Manager Horsley advised that April is Poetry Month and she requested members of the City Council read a poem at the next meeting. Councilmembers Smith, Andersen, and Rodin volunteered to read a poem at the April 2nd Council meeting. Councilmember Baldwin and Mayor Larson would read a poem at the April 16th meeting. City Clerk Ulvila explained that there are only a few people who haven't turned in their FPPC Form 700, two of which are Councilmembers. She advised that Perry Ramsey has submitted his resignation from the Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission as the Men's Golf Club representative. The Men's Golf Club would be meeting next month and may possibly make a recommendation to the City Council to fill that position. She also reminded Council that in June there will be terms expiring on many commissions and there will be a need to solicit applicants to fill those vacancies. Mr. Ramsey's appointment does not expire until June 2004. Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 13 of 14 11. CLOSED SESSION a. Conference with Legal Counsel- Anticipated Litigation, Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to subdivision (b) of Government Code § 54956.9 (1 case) No closed session needed. 12.ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 11:54 p.m. Marie Ulvila, City Clerk Regular City Council Meeting March 19, 2003 Page 14 of 14