HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 03-07-01MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting
Wednesday, March 7, 2001
The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on March 7, 2001, the notice for which
had been legally noticed and posted, at 6:47 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers,
300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll was taken and the following
Councilmembers were present: Larson, Smith, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. Staff
present: Customer Service Supervisor Archibald, Public Utility Director Barnes,
Community Services Director DeKnoblough, Finance Director EIton, Assistant City
Manager Fierro, City Manager Horsley, City Attorney Rapport, Deputy Public
Works Director Seanor, Public Works Director/City Engineer Steele, and City Clerk Ulvila.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Vice-Mayor Baldwin led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. RIGHT TO APPEAL DECISION
Mayor Ashiku read the appeal process.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
M/S Smith/Larson approving items a through c of the Consent Calendar as follows:
a. Awarded Contract for Kennedy/Jenks Consultants to Perform Additional Services for
Preparation of Drinking Water Source Assessment in Conjunction with Watershed
Sanitary Survey for the Sum Not to Exceed $14,980;
b. Awarded Bid to Hertz/Big 4 Rents for a Used Vermeer Model BC1230A Diesel
Wood/Brush Chipper in the Amount of $15,515 and Approval of Related Budget
Amendment;
c. Received Report Council Regarding Extension of Lease Agreement with the State of
California Department of General Services on Behalf of the California Department of
Forestry for a Portion of the Ukiah Regional Airport.
Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby,
Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None.
5. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
No one came forward to address Council.
7. NEW BUSINESS
7a. Authorization of the City Manager to Negotiate and Enter into a Professional
Consulting Services Agreement to Provide Digital Orthol~hoto~ral~h¥ and
Plannimetric Mapping Services and Approval of Related Budget Amendment
Public Works Director/City Engineer Steele explained that implementing a geographical
information system (GIS) system for the City of Ukiah has been identified in the Goals and
Objectives and staff is moving towards its implementation. Recently staff solicited
proposals for Digital Orthophotography and Plannimetric Mapping Services. A thorough
evaluation process was completed and staff is recommending award of the contract to 3Di.
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March 7, 2001
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She introduced 3Di's Project Managers Ron Sluggett and Brett Hazell.
Brett Hazell, Project Manager proposed for this project and also 3Di's Regional Director of
Mapping Services, provided a presentation regarding the work product. He discussed the
services offered including surveying, aerial photography, and mapping for urban areas,
semi urban areas, and rural areas. Rau and Associates will complete the surveying and
will target points on the ground and then survey them. He discussed the process for
completing aerial photography that will be produced by a calibrated mapping camera taken
at 3,600 and 9,000 feet above ground. He discussed the scale of mapping to create a
contour model with regard to drainage, mapping buildings, street centerlines and curbs,
and existing hydrology (water) features. The digital orthophotography is an image map and
can be used in concert with other topographical maps. Images can also be displayed on a
Web site. He discussed the layers of a digital file, geographical information, and the image
and feature data of the job. He advised that training for City staff for use of the work
product would take about two days.
Discussion followed with regard to aspects of the GIS system and how the system will
assist in determining the needs and requirements for City services, such as sewers. It was
noted that once the City purchases the system, the City would retain the right to all
information produced. 3Di will store the original film in their facility and will be provided to
the City upon request.
M/S Baldwin/Libby authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and enter into a
Professional Consulting Services Agreement with 3Di, Inc. for the 2001 Digital
Orthophotography and Plannimetric Mapping Services at a total compensation not to
exceed $72,121, and approval of amendment to the 2000/2001 budget increasing
expenditures in accounts 100.3001.800.000,800.3733.800.000 and 820.3901.800.000 by
$6,800, $1,600, and $1,600 respectively to accommodate the increased GIS cost between
the Engineering, Electric, and Water Department; carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None.
ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None
6. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6a. Discussion and Possible Revision to the Ukiah C.A.R.E.S. Program
Customer Service Supervisor Archibald advised that the Staff Report identifies how the
long the Ukiah CARES program will last given different sets of circumstances. Eight
scenarios are being presented to Council, some address increased benefits and some
address increased income levels.
The analysis for longevity of the program for this report presumes that no additional
percentage of the electric revenues will be added to the Public Benefits Fund beyond the
sunset date of January 1, 2002. The three portions of the CARES program consist of
temporary emergency assistance that is allowed once a year, monthly discounts to senior
households, and monthly discounts to non-senior households. She provided Council with
a history of the program since it began in October 1998.
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March 7, 2001
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Marketing of the program has expanded and improved, with the goal of reaching as much
of the community as possible. Staff has recently made a presentation to the management
staff of the Mendocino County Department of Social Services and more are to be
scheduled to other local agencies. At Council's request, information is reported to include
costs for weeklong Cable TV commercials that would enhance the marketing of the
program.
She advised that eligibility is determined for all portions of the program at 150% of the
current Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIG). She continued to explain how eligibility
is calculated. If the income were to be increased by either Councilmember Baldwin's
proposed level or 200% of the FPIG, staff believes that participation would triple and
reduce longevity of the program funds. She discussed the eight scenarios presented in the
Council packet.
Terry Poplawski, 612 Walnut Avenue, encouraged Council to expand the CARES
program. With Masonite's impending closure, there might be more people needing
assistance. Expanding the program would be a better use of the funds than providing an
across the board rate reduction.
Councilmember Baldwin voiced his appreciation to staff for information provided in their
report. He felt it should be the commitment of the City and the Council to make the City's
utility rates progressive and provide as much assistance to Iow income people as possible,
whether or not the state extends its current program. He encouraged consideration of
Scenario #7 with the plan to extend the program beyond the state's sunset date and to use
any remaining Public Benefits Funds each year to initiate environmentally sound practices.
We should increase the program to the maximum that would be feasible with the current
funding available.
Finance Director Elton explained that there was no intent specified for use of these funds
beyond the sunset date.
City Manager Horsley explained that according to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC),
it doesn't matter when you spend the money, even if the funds are held for 10 years from
now, you can't use the funds for other matters than what is required under the law.
Ms. Archibald advised that the four ways in which the Public Benefits Funds can be spent
are cost effective services to promote energy efficiency and energy conservation, to
develop environmentally clean generation, research programs to fund to discover and
develop a potential new technology, and funding for Iow income programs.
Councilmember Larson inquired if there is justification for advertising on Cable TV to
reach people who can't afford to pay their electric bill but apparently can afford Cable TV.
Councilmember Baldwin discussed how some people spend their money on Cable TV as
a form of entertainment because they cannot afford a vacation, or more expensive forms of
entertainment. He felt advertising on Cable TV would be a way of reaching out to those
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March 7, 2001
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people in need of assistance by providing them with information on services available.
Councilmember Libby inquired as to the efforts of staff to reach the public regarding the
programs available.
Ms. Archibald explained that staff continues to try to improve ways in which to notify
customers who have pending financial problems and information is included about the
programs with notices that go out to the households. She noted that Staff is attempting to
develop a routine for contacting nursing homes and other agencies and provide information
about the programs available. She made a presentation last month to the management
staff of the Mendocino County Department of Social Services and provided them with flyers
about the programs so they could inform their staff that has direct contact with City of Ukiah
residents. Informational flyers are also provided to other community development
agencies.
Discussion followed with regard to a review of the various eight scenarios. It was noted by
Staff that the participation would triple no matter what the level was in it increased from
$21,000 or to 200%. It just determines eligibility.
Mayor Ashiku stated that it is important to note, that the City of Ukiah has absorbed the
surcharge into its operating system and is not included on the customers utility bills. He
discussed the Public Benefits Charge sun setting and felt the City should look at the new
rates as they come forward and be more progressive as to how that 5% is disbursed. He
noted that the City is only using the Public Benefits Charge for one aspect of the intended
benefit of this program and other benefits could be derived from it that would benefit the
community. He discussed using some of these funds to create programs to such as an
exchange of light bulbs that would provide long-term relief and would continue each month.
He also recommended that the City investigate what SMUD is doing with regard to rooftop
solar panels for households that will ultimately reduce long-term dependency and need for
additional generation. He recommended that Council pursue Staff's recommendation
regarding emergency assistance and allow residents to apply twice a year. He also
recommended the City study what the benefits could be realized by employing other
aspects of the program. Additionally, we should be progressive in the rate structure as
well.
Ms. Archibald advised that the guidelines are the same for all three portions of the
program. Because of the nature of the monthly discounts, and the fact that they are on
going, the guidelines and income levels are expected to be reported and verified for an
entire previous year before getting onto the program. The Temporary Emergency
Assistance portion is somewhat different in that regard. She continued to discuss this
portion of the program.
Discussion followed with regard to Masonite laying off over 260 workers by May 2001, and
that many people may need assistance with their utility bills.
Councilmember Libby noted that none of the scenarios presented demonstrate continued
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funding past the year 2002. She felt that Scenario #5 provides the most help to seniors,
increases assistance to the non-seniors, and provides assistance to a maximum of $300
more than once a year. She felt it important to look at the program again in six months to
evaluate the impacts of the program, especially if more people are using the programs.
M/S Libby/Ashiku approving Scenario #5 as follows: Maintain Income Guidelines at total
net household income of 150% of Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (FPIG), Increase
Senior month discount to first 120 kWh free, Increase non-senior month discount to first
100 kWh free, Increase Emergency Assistance to $300 maximum more than once per year
(not to exceed a maximum of $300), and to Increase costs to administration and marketing
of program.
Councilmember Larson noted the lack of a graduated benefit program based on income
in Scenario #5. At a higher income threshold, the benefits might be reduced proportionally.
He preferred that the City focus its benefits on the lowest level of incomes and seniors on
fixed income. He expressed interest in extending the surcharge into the future and
exploring conservation programs, such as buy back programs. He preferred that options
be left open for experimental programs and that we should not restrict advertising to Cable
TV. The City should make improvements to marketing the program.
Councilmember Baldwin felt that the funds should be used to help citizens now. He
discussed the federal poverty level as being almost unlivable. Anyone meeting these
guidelines is hurting regardless of their age. He felt we should use some of the funds for
other programs such as providing more efficient appliances, in addition to significantly
increasing the subsidy.
Mayor Ashiku responded that it reduces the demand on the system, reduces how much
capacity you have to buy, thereby affecting the cost base of rates throughout the entire
City, and benefits everyone. He preferred to see part of the money from this fund be used
to increase the number of times that emergency assistance can be provided, and perhaps
increase the benefit to those that are most needy. Additionally, some of that money can
be used for some of the other programs that are intended. He felt it is important that
Council ask the public whether or not they want the City to continue this charge. He felt
Council needs to get public input on the matter, and then commit to a plan that depletes
the resource. He was supportive of Scenario #5 as a reasonable alternative.
Councilmember Baldwin did not think Scenario #5 goes far enough. He suggested the
motion be amended to include Council revisiting the CARES program every six months.
M/S Libby/Ashiku to amend the motion to include a provision that the program be
revisited within six months.
Discussion of the motion and the Public Benefits Charge continued.
City Manager Horsley advised caution, as there might be a lot of changes with financial
impacts in the next couple years regarding the electric utility.
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March 7, 2001
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Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby,
Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None.
7. NEW BUSINESS
7b. Approval of Expansion of Contract with Richard Ruff for Architectural
Services for Ukiah Regional Airport Terminal Remodel and Related Budget
Amendment
Community Services Director DeKnoblough advised that for several years, Airport staff
and the Council have discussed the need to completely a remodel and upgrade the
Terminal and Administration building at the Airport. However, due to financial limitations,
the Airport Enterprise Fund has been unable to undertake such a project. Recently this
need has been increased, as the Airport staff has had to relocate to the Flight Service
Building because the current terminal building fails to meet the basic space needs of
Airport staff and tenant businesses. He discussed significant upgrades needed to comply
with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It has also been difficult to conduct
economic development or business recruitment in the terminal, particularly the recruitment
of food service, which has been a long time goal of the Airport. Airport Manager Don Bua
has recently become aware of an opportunity through the Economic Development
Administration (EDA) to fund a maximum of 60% of the total remodel and upgrade costs of
the Ukiah Regional Airport Terminal/Administration building. In addition to the grant funds,
the Federal Rural Development Agency has available 3% interest loans that could be
utilized to provide gap financing for the remaining 40% of the project costs.
In order to proceed with the pre-application process, EDA requires the project be defined
and design schematics and cost estimates be developed. To accomplish this, it will be
necessary to secure a limited contract for architectural services. He recommended that the
City expand the current contract with Richard Ruff for the Civic Center Addition, to include
preliminary design of the Airport Terminal Building. Mr. Ruff's proposal is $4,500.
Discussion followed concerning the need for residents in the southern portion of the City to
use MTA and other forms of transportation. Development of a transit center at the Airport
was also discussed.
Mr. DeKnoblough explained that staff has worked with Mr. Ruff to develop a draft design
of the facility. There is a lot of flexibility in designing office space and receiving areas for
passengers, and for other types of transportation. He explained that the project includes a
remodel and upgrade to the entire facility.
Discussion continued regarding making the terminal ADA assessable.
Airport Manager Bua explained that there is a reserve in the Airport Enterprise Fund of
approximately $120,000 and the balance will increase by the end of the fiscal year. It is
anticipated that the Airport Reserve Fund will be able to save $100,000 and then borrow
the remainder for a long-term loan through RDA, at a rate of 3% for 40 years. The Airport
Enterprise Fund has shown that it can generate enough money to make those payments.
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He continued to explain how the Flight Service Building is currently utilized.
City Manager Horsley explained that the draft design includes space for a food service
business and a pilots lounge area. Staff would like to plan for an airline, which they think
will eventually come to Ukiah, and be flexible enough to change the design depending on
the needs of the airline.
Councilmember Larson expressed concern that there be a means to pay off the
investment through Airport revenues and that there be access to transit facilities.
Councilmember Smith explained that t the last MTA Board meeting, a site was selected
and an offer to the owners will be made shortly. The site is located outside the City limits,
at the northern part of town. MTA would still like to develop a central site at the railroad
station.
M/S Smith/Libby approving contract expansion of $4,500 with Richard Ruff for
architectural services for Ukiah Regional Airport Terminal remodel, and approving
amendment to the 2000/2001 budget increasing expenditures in the 600.5001.250.00
account by $4,500.
Councilmember Baldwin advised that he would vote "no" on the motion because he feels
a more modest and cost effective remodeling project is in order.
City Manager Horsley explained that the design plans would be coming to the City
Council for review.
Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby,
and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None.
8. COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmember Larson reported attending a MCOG meeting and a presentation on the
various alternatives to the Willits Bypass were made. There is a probability that we will be
asked to contribute more than the $17 million that has already been committed, which
would be considered in the next STIP augmentation. MSWMA met in an emergency
meeting and authorized a grant request that will fund a two-year reuse facility at the Willits
Transfer Station. The purpose of the grant will be to divert any usable or saleable items
from the trash. It will also provide for an employee for the duration of the grant to start a
business selling these items.
Councilmember Smith reminded everyone of the Main Street Program's recognition
dinner to be held on March 15. At their last meeting, the Main Street Board of Directors
discussed the proposal by the Chamber of Commerce for merger of two organizations.
The Main Street Board of Directors decided that the proposal would not benefit the Main
Street Program and they are considering writing a letter asking for additional input from the
Chamber of Commerce. He reported attending a MTA Board meeting and they are
negotiating a north Ukiah site.
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Councilmember Libby inquired of Councilmember Larson regarding an update of the Call
Boxes and if they have been implemented.
Councilmember Larson explained they should begin installing the Call Boxes this spring
or summer. There was some discussion at MCOG concerning the amount of time they
would be used, since many people call from their cell phones.
Councilmember Libby reported that she attended an EDFC meeting today. Executive
Director Madeline Holtkamp has contacted the Trade and Commerce Commission about
the Masonite facility and to see if they could help to bring another business to that site.
There will be a Board training meeting on the finances and funding in May. EDFC received
a re-lending loan program of $480,000 from USDA. This is additional money to the
portfolio of EDFC and their revolving loan program.
She attended the Project Sanctuary open house last night. The Community Recreation
Center is moving forward and they meet approximately four times each month.
Vice-Mayor Baldwin reported that he has a school-oriented conflict and cannot attend the
Russian River Watershed Council meeting this Saturday in Cloverdale. They do have
access to funding and since the City is considering a consortium for the Russian River, it
may be prudent to attend. He requested that Council discuss at their next meeting the
applicability of ordinances currently in effect concerning wood stove retrofit. As the energy
issue becomes more troubling, there is also an issue of wood stove pollution. He
distributed a letter from Suzanne Pletcher requesting Council consider the issue of wood
stoves. He recommended looking at the wood stove ordinances of Petaiuma, Healdsburg,
and Cloverdale. He also had an article regarding workers using Internet access to goof off
and opposition to the use of cell phones in cars that he provided Council.
Mayor Ashiku reported that he attended a NCPA meeting and they are projecting the
potential for significant power shortages throughout California, even though we have our
own generation and capacity. The statewide problem may affect Ukiah and there is a
potential for multiple days of black outs. Last Friday he attended an energy forum on the
coast. He is scheduled to speak at the Mendocino County Employers Council on March 16
concerning the present state of the utility crisis in California, and anything they can do as
employers to conserve energy.
9. CITY MANAGER/CITY CLERK/DIRECTOR REPORTS
City Manager Horsley inquired if any Councilmember is interested in sitting on the Hunger
Task Force. They meet on a monthly basis from noon to 1:30 p.m., with their next meeting
scheduled for tomorrow. An invitation to the Redwood Regional Logging Conference in
Eureka and the Seltzer St. Patrick's Day celebration were received. She distributed a copy
of the Masonite press release and letter that was sent to the City yesterday. She also
distributed packets for the March 8, 2001 workshop regarding the Fire Department JPA.
A letter was also received from the Ukiah Firefighters Association. The meeting will take
place at the Ukiah Valley Conference Center at 4:00 p.m. She inquired of Council if it
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March 7, 2001
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would be appropriate to send a letter, under the Mayor's signature, to the Ukiah Daily
Journal thanking them for their coverage of the City's 125th anniversary.
Consensus of Council expressed their appreciation to the Ukiah Daily Journal for their
news coverage.
City Clerk Ulvila reminded Council that the deadlines for submitting Statements of
Economic Interests are due on April 9, 2001.
Adjourned to Closed Session at 8:25 p.m.
Reconvened at 11:10 p.m.
10. CLOSED SESSION
a. G.C. §54957.6 - Conference with Labor Negotiator
Employee Negotiations: Electric Unit
No action taken.
b. G.C. §54956.9(a) - Conference with Legal Counsel Regarding Existing
Litigation (Name of Case: Ruelle vs. City of Ukiah, Mendocino County Superior Court
Case No. SCUKCVCV0083733)
No action taken.
c. Public Employee Performance Evaluation: City Manager
Consensus of Council approved a 6% salary increase for the City Manager.
11.ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 11:10 p.m.
Marie Ulvila, City Clerk
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