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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 06-20-01MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting Wednesday, June 20, 2001 The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on June 20, 2001, the notice for which had been legally noticed and posted, at 6:03 p.m. in the Civic Center Council Chambers, 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California. Roll was taken and the following Councilmembers were present: Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. Councilmember absent: Smith. Staff present: Public Utility Director Barnes, Airport Manager Bua, Community Services Director DeKnoblough, Finance Director Elton, Assistant City Manager Fierro, Personnel Officer Harris, Risk Manager/Budget Officer Harris, City Manager Horsley, City Attorney Rapport, Deputy Public Works Director Seanor, Planning Director Stump, and City Clerk Ulvila. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Libby led the Pledge of Allegiance. 3. PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICANT INTERVIEW (10 min.) 3a. lnterview with Planning Commission Incumbent, Jennifer Puser Mayor Ashiku explained that the City Clerk's office received a letter from incumbent Planning Commissioner Jennifer Puser giving notice that she would be unavailable for an interview at the City Council's scheduled meeting in July and requested that Council interview her at its June 20th meeting instead. City Councilmembers interviewed incumbent, Jennifer Puser, on various issues concerning her application for reappointment to the Planning Commission. 4. PRESENTATIONS 4a. Official Appointment of Armand Brint as the Ist City of Ukiah Poet Laureate City Manager Horsley advised that the City Council approved the Poet Laureate Program at its May 16, 2001 Council meeting. In addition, it also determined that Armand Brint would be the City of Ukiah's 1 ~ Poet Laureate. Mayor Ashiku provided Mr. Brint with a Certificate as Ukiah's first Poet Laureate. 4. PRESENTATIONS 4b. Presentation by The Ford Street Project Regarding Operation of the 2000/2001 Temporary Emer.qencv Homeless Winter Shelter at the North Fire Station City Manager Horsley advised that with the conclusion of the winter season, the temporary emergency winter shelter at the North Fire Station has closed. The Ford Street Project is looking at using the facility for a shelter for another year as the Homeless Shelter Siting Group continues to plan a permanent shelter. Mark Rohloff, Ford Street Project Director, advised that the facility opened on December 1,2000 and served 354 total shelter residents during a four-month period. He discussed statistics related to those using the shelter. He discussed difficulties encountered with Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 1 of ]5 securing the perimeter of the premises during the off hours. He felt that the operation of the shelter was very good and they successfully utilized the bus system more than the previous year. The Ukiah Community Center played a large role with the breakfast program, there was a drop in center for mentally ill homeless individuals. They will be submitting a grant tomorrow and if approved, will be used to purchase a site for a permanent shelter. He looks forward to the City and County working together to resolve the issue of homelessness in Mendocino County and Ukiah. Mayor Ashiku thanked Mr. Rohioff for his efforts and commitments. 4. PRESENTATIONS 4c. Presentation by the Ukiah Main Street Program City Manager Horsley advised that the Ukiah Main Street Program Board of Directors have requested to make a presentation regarding last year's activities as well as goals for the upcoming year. Two years ago the City entered into a contract with the Board that has been fulfilled well. Ed Eversole, President of the Ukiah Main Street Program, discussed the activities of the Ukiah Main Street Program (Main Street) in conjunction with the City. This year the New Years Eve celebration will be called "First Night" and will be oriented toward a family function. They are forming a business outreach team in partnership with the City, the purpose of which is to recruit, support, and retain downtown district businesses. Main Street appreciates working with the City on various projects. 5. PROCLAMATIONS 3a. Veterans of the Ukiah Valley - Appreciation Mayor Ashiku read a Proclamation commending those dedicated individuals and organizations, who gave of themselves to insure that the American flag would again line the thoroughfares of Ukiah, honoring those who have served, and saluting the symbol of American liberties by implementing the phrase, "Long may It Wave". Jerry Erickson accepted the Proclamation on behalf of all veterans in community. He thanked the many businesses in Ukiah who display flags on a daily basis. Councilmember Libby personally thanked the veterans for their efforts. 6. MINUTES 6a. Regular Meeting of May 16, 2001 Continued to next meeting for approval. 7. RIGHT TO APPEAL DECISION Mayor Ashiku read the appeal process. 8. CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Libby referred to item 8f, Approval of Publishing Services by Ukiah Daily Journal, and inquired about qualifying as a newspaper of general circulation. Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 2 of ]_5 City Attorney Rapport explained that the Ukiah Daily Journal is the only newspaper that has been certified as a newspaper of general circulation in the City. He further explained criteria and other certification based on statutory standards. M/S Larson/Baldwin approving items a through k of the Consent Calendar as follows: a. Approving Disbursements for Month of June 2001; b. Received Notification to the City Council Regarding the Purchase of a Tapping Machine from Vintage Water Works Supply for the Sum of $7,242.83; c. Rejected Claim for Damages Received From Ismael Lopez and Referred to Joint Powers Authority, Redwood Empire Murricipal Insurance Fund; d. Received Notification to the City Council Regarding the Sole Source Bid to Inspect and Evaluate the Ranney Collector by the Ranney Division of Layne Christensen Company for the Sum of $9,700; e. Received Report of Emergency Rental of Scraper for the Ukiah Solid Waste Disposal Site; f. Approved Publishing Services by Ukiah Daily Journal for Fiscal Year 2001-2002; g. Authorized City Manager to Negotiate and Enter into a Professional Consulting Services Agreement with Winzler and Kelly Consulting Engineers to Provide Design Services for the State and Gobbi Streets Intersection Improvement Project to be Compensated at a Time and Material Basis, with Total Contract Amount Notto Ex,cd $34,600; h. Authorized Amendment No. 2 to the Agreement for Removal of Woodwaste and Yardwaste from Ukiah Solid Waste Disposal Site; i. Authorized Amendment No. 5 to the Service Agreement for Juvenile Work Program at Ukiah Solid Waste Disposal Site; j. Received Report to Council Regarding Acquisition of Services From Lee Morse Auto Body and Painting in the Amount of $5,901.35; k. Received Report to Council Regarding Purchase of Fitness Related Equipment from Body Masters in the Amount of $17,337.~;0 and Fit West in the Amount of $5,379.40. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None. 9. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Rick Powell, representing Solid Waste Systems of Ukiah, addressed Council regarding obtaining permits with the County for the Transfer Station on Taylor Drive. The Transfer Station is now complete and operational, however, due to the lack of permits to finish the off-site improvements, they cannot open the Transfer Station. He thanked City staff that has worked with them to assist in moving the project forward. He asked Council's assistance in contacting the County regarding moving forward the permits for the project. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 10a. Status Report and Discussion Regarding Potential Skatepark Facility Locations Regular'Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 3 of ;tS Community Services Director DeKnoblough advised that the City Council last discussed possible skatepark locations on August 18, 1999. Since that time, staff has had several meetings with the Skatepark Committee and looked at a number of different sites. They have met considerable public resistance and have not been able to make progress towards identifying a particular site. The matter is being brought back before Council to review some of those discussions and to seek additional direction from Council as to how to proceed. They have four sites currently that include the Low Gap Road site located near the Sheriff's Department and Ukiah Players Theater, the River Park, Vinewood Park, and some property located on East Clay Street. The Low Gap Road site is located on the east side of the property that is adjacent to the Sheriff's Department and between the Ukiah Player's Theater. The property is owned by the City of Ukiah and the Mendocino County Office of Education (MCOE) currently holds the property in option. The second site is located on the west side of the Low Gap Park area, between the Ukiah Player's Theater and the tennis courts. That site had been taken off the list for consideration because the County operates the park and had made a commitment to the Rotary Club to allow'them to do a memorial grove and park improvements to the area. However, recent discussions with the Rotary Club have indicated they may be curtailing that project and there is a possibility that the site could be reconsidered for a skatepark. MCOE has indicated they have developed plans to construct an ROP center at the site and have withdrawn their commitment to the skatepark. He recommended Council approve sending a letter to MCOE requesting a development schedule for the property. They have had the option on the property for nearly 11 years and nothing has occurred during that time. Staff has tentatively obtained approval to use the 40-foot strip of land on Low Gap Road; however, the County has indicated there are no other County properties available for a skatepark. Staff has also discussed the issue with Ukiah Unified School District and Ukiah High School, and both parties feel there are no appropriate School District properties available. Another option is private property acquisition. This would require substantial fundraising efforts by the skatepark community to maintain a lease and for the development of the facility. He continued to discuss other options for sites, both permanent and temporary. In summary, over the past five years, staff has been working with a very dedicated group of parents and young people whose focus is to build a skatepark facility. They have been met with a lot of resistance and also favorable comments about skating. In touring other skateparks, they have found that parks are built in general areas of use, where there are multi-generational activities, high visibility areas, and where skating is integrated with other recreational uses and community uses of a public park. Staff has found them to be very clean, very accessible, and many people like watching the skaters. These parks have been very well maintained, without graffiti, the kids police themselves. Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 4 of ]5 City Manager Horsley discussed insurance coverage and liability issues related to a skatepark facility as provided by REMIF, the City's insurance carrier. Discussion followed concerning the property 'on Low Gap Road that the City owns and that MCOE has a long term, 40-year lease with the Ukiah Redevelopment Agency. The property on Clay Street and also on Low Gap Road next to the Sheriff's Department was discussed. Smaller elements, whether temporary or permanent, in the parks were discussed with regard to liability issues. It was noted by staff that Todd Grove Park area was not considered due to the heavy public use and the varied activities. Don Dolan, Nancy Lee, Maggie Lohse, Mr. & Mrs. Randall Fear, Michael Harris, Ken Reid, Al Cross, Justin Capri, Matt Wilson, John Graft, Susan Wertheimer, and Tom Waters spoke in support of building a skatepark in Ukiah. Joe Dietrick, 274 Magnolia, voiced his opposition to using Vinewood Park for a skatepark. Susan, who lives across the street from Vinewood Park, also voiced her opposition to that location but was supportive of a skatepark in the City. Namine Obwan advised that as a member of the Skatepark Site Committee, they are requesting that the City Council write a letter to MCOE and request to resolve the outcome of the MCOE Low Gap Road location. She also invited one Councilmember to become an official liaison between the City Council and .their Committee. Richard Shoemaker voiced his support for a skatepark. He supported a letter be sent to MCOE and felt that a policy committee needs to be established that would consist of representatives from the City Council, MCOE, and Ukiah Unified School District to work toward finding a suitable location. Discussion followed concerning the two properties located on Low Gap Road. There was also discussion regarding installing skate elements in various parks within the City. It was recommended that staff contact the Rotary Club concerning their intention for the Low Gap Road site. M/S Baldwin/Ashiku directing staff to investigate installing small regional components in every park, except McGarvey Park. Councilmember Baldwin noted how noisy skateboarding is as a sport and recommended staff considers a time limitation for skateboarding in the parks. He further recommended that Council direct staff to exert time and energy toward locating a full facility on Low Gap Road. City Clerk Ulvila read the motion to Council. Discussion followed concerning the content of the motion. City Manager Horsley explained that staff will research the elements, costs involved, and Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 5 of ].5 discuss insurance issues with REMIF. Staff would report back to Council at the second meeting in July with this information. Director DeKnoblough advised that he would like to have the Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission review the plan. Mayor Ashiku explained that the intent of the motion was also to work with the Skateboard Committee as well as the service clubs and businesses that are interested in sponsoring or participating in offsetting the cost of develop.ment of those elements. Discussion continued regarding the motion and issues related to locating a skatepark site. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None M/RC Libby/Ashiku directing to staff to write a letter, under the Mayor's signature, to MCOE requesting a development schedule of the Low Gap Road site; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None Recessed: 8:10 p.m. Reconvened: 8:25 p.m. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 10b. (6:15 p.m.) Review of Fiscal year 2001-02 Budget Accomplishments and Objectives for Community Services, City Management, City Clerk, and Redevelopment City Manager Horsley announced that this matter would be rescheduled during the budget hearings. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 10c. Adoption of Ordinance Concerning the Terms of Office for Members of City Commissions and Boards City Manager Horsley advised that at the meeting of June 6, 2001, the City Council discussed the various aspects of City appointed Commissions and Committees with regards to terms, recruitments, and the appointment process. As a result of that discussion, the City Council introduced an Ordinance Amending Section 1200 of the Ukiah City Code Concerning the Terms of Office for Members of City Commissions and Boards. Due to one dissenting vote on the Ordinance, the Ordinance is being placed on Unfinished Business for adoption. M/S Baldwin/Larson Adopting Ordinance No. 1034, Amending Section 1200 of the Ukiah City Code Concerning the Terms of Office for Members of City Commissions and Boards Councilmember Libby stated for the record that she is very disappointed that the Council Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 6 of 15 is taking this step and didn't think it is the will of the people to rescind term limits. She thought it encourages a "clickish" government which is not what we need in this town, and the message that we are sending the public is a "good ole' boy system" which she finds very disturbing. Councilmember Baldwin explained the purpose of the Ordinance to the audience. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: Councilmember Libby. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None Mayor Ashiku recused himself from item "11 a, b, and c" because he owns property in the western hills and rents an open hangar at the Ukiah Regional Airport. 8:27 p.m.: Ashiku left meeting. 8:27 p.m.: Vice Mayor Baldwin conducted the meeting. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11a. Approval of Contract with Leonard Charles & Associates for the Preparation of a Western Hills Constraints Analysis and Buildout Study and Budget Transfer Planning Director Stump advised that the Planning staff is seeking consultant assistance to prepare a Western Hills Constraints Analysis and Buildout Study. Staff is also requesting approval of a budget transfer associated with the contract. One bid was received and he recommended approval of the contract with Leonard Charles & Associates in order to get the study underway. He explained that the consultant has indicated the Study would take approximately one month to complete. The Study would coincide with the proposed revisions to the Hillside Zoning Regulations. Discussion followed concerning the area known as the "westside hills" and the possibility of boundary lines changing as a result of the Study. There was also discussion concerning the need for property owners in the area to cooperate with the consultant and that the consultant will conduct field work. Albert Krauz, Ukiah, discussed the importance of geology for this type of project. He also discussed the property that the City owns near the Mendocino Drive/San Jacinto area. Bob Weara, resident of the western hills, felt the study is a waste of money and not needed. Joan Hermann, 404 Oak Park, discussed how development of the area might cause damage to the hillside and affect her property. She was of the opinion that those wanting to develop the area should pay for an Environmental Impact Report (El R) to determine if it is safe to build. City Manager Horsley explained that this is not an EIR but rather a study of the Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 7 of ]_5 constraints of buildout on the western hills. Any developer would be required to pay for an EIR. Brooks Anderson, Mill Street resident, questioned why Council is considering the contract prior to considering the moratorium item on the agenda. City Manager Horsley explained that people have applied to build on the western hills. The study is being conducted so if there were further applications, the information would be available prior to making decisions on projects. Phillip Ashiku, Valley View Drive, felt it appropriate that the City proceed with this analysis so there would be a rational basis for the ordinance. Tom MonPere, 1129 Church Street, expressed his concerns with slides and that the study should include geology information. Councilmember Libby read the Scope of Work to be conducted. Director Stump explained that during his discussions with the consultant, fieldwork would be an integral part of the study. He will express Council's concern to the consultant that there be more fieldwork AND not as much review of existing data. M/S Libby/Larson Approving contract with Leonard Charles and Associates for the preparation of a Western Hills Constraints Analysis and Buildout Study, and Approve the transfer of funds from Planning Department salary savings to the Special Projects Reserve Fund (699); carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, and Vice-Mayor Baldwin. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith and Mayor Ashiku. ABSTAIN: None 11. NEW BUSINESS 11b. Discussion of Temporary West Hills Moratorium on Land Divisions and New Road/Grading permits Pending Adoption of Hillside Development Ordinance (Vice-Mayor Baldwin) Vice Mayor Baldwin read THE letter he provided to Council requesting that Council vote FOR a temporary moratorium on land divisions and new grading permits in Ukiah's west side hills, until the protective Hillside Development ordinance is enacted by Council. He noted that there would be other workshops by the Planning Commission concerning the Hillside Ordinance before it is sent to the City Council for consideration. There is the potential for it being a slow process, and with developments pending, he expressed concern that without a temporary moratorium, we may lose the possibility to see those elements become a reality. City Attorney Rapport advised Council concerning the Government Code and enacting an interim ordinance to impose a development moratorium. It must be determined that enacting such an interim ordinance would protect public safety, health, and welfare. That interim ordinance is only good for 45 days. During that 45 day time period, you have to Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 8 of ]_5 provide notice in a public hearing at which Council can extend the interim ordinance for 10 months and 15 days, and then Council can extend it one more time an additional year. In enacting the ordinance, you have to make legislative findings that there is a current and immediate threat to the public health, safety, and welfare, and that the approval of additional subdivisions, use permits, variances, building permits and other applicable entitlement for use would result in that threat to the public health, safety, or welfare. Discussion continued regarding grading permits and the proposal for a moratorium on development in the western hills. Councilmember Libby noted that there are some projects on the western hills that are being done responsibly and felt the Planning Director has a good handle on the situation with the Westside hills and development projects. She felt a moratorium is a radical step and didn't feel there is a crisis situation now. She was not supportive of the proposal. Members of the audience that spoke in support of a moratorium were Terry Poplawski Eric S., Bruni Kobbi, Jan Joe, Paul Andersen, and Jan Noe. They voiced concerns regarding geology issues related to the development of the western hills, noise from equipment used to develop projects, heavy run-off into Gibson Creek, archeological concerns, and halting development until the study has been completed and further data is compiled. Members of the audience that spoke against the proposed moratorium were Phillip Ashiku, Marlene Weara, Brenda Smith, Greg Piffero, Bob Weara, Dave Hull, Eric Garbochi, John Heller, and Al Beltrami. They expressed concern with private property rights, compromising a property owner's ability to build a home, opposition to excessive regulation, and that no crisis exists in the western hills with regard to development. Chris Fobert drew attention to the acreage in the Hillside Zoning District and Jean Harmon expressed her concern with water issues. Dave Hull, property owner in west hills with partner, Rick Piffero, advised that his project seems to have created a stir. He inquired if the moratorium would apply to him, since he's had an application on file since November 1998. City Attorney Rapport was of the opinion that the proposed moratorium would apply to Mr. Hull's application and the fact that he filed a permit would not exempt him from the moratorium. Mr. Hull continued to discuss his partnership with Mr. Piffero and their project. He referred to the requirement in the study to complete a botany study, which can only be done during the months of May and July, and therefore the entire study could not be completed in one month. He advised that he has sought legal advice and warned Council that should a moratorium go into affect, he would pursue a lawsuit. He continued to explained that they did some road maintenance and installed culverts but were not aware permits were required. They stopped work when they wer~ notified. He further discussed the details of Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 9 of 15 his project that includes five homes, installation of fire hydrants, a paved roadway, and an 116,000-gallon water storage tank that would gravity feed to each home. During the past three years approximately 1,400 trees have been planted. Discussion followed concerning the issues for buildout and the need for affordable housing in the community. Director Stump advised that in the Scope of Work there is vegetation study that would review all the existing data and maps available. The consultant would also do some fieldwork and study the area to determine the presence of sensitive species or valuable plants or habitats in the area. He expressed concern about the timing for this study and he will pursue that with the consultants. Staff anticipates returning to the Planning Commission with further information approximately two months after the study is completed. Councilmember Larson was not convinced that a moratorium is needed now however; there is a need to have further information about potential buildout. Any new development will require public review and possibly environmental review, and will act as a form of moratorium. City Attorney Rapport discussed state statutes related to 3ublic safety regarding development. Vice-Mayor Baldwin stated that he did not want to wait for a cris~s but would like to have the studies completed ahead of time before the crisis exists. He noted the Use Permit process has not protected us very well. There is a huge gash on the mountainside and the question is how much of it was taken illegally. He expressed concern with affordable housing and noted that the homes proposed for Mr. Hull's project are not affordable by approximately 90% of the community. He inquired about prescriptive rights and the public rights to land such as that in Gibson Creek Canyon. He noted if the community cannot afford to acquire, through land trust, a trail system and a passive park area, then we have to let zoning do the work. He questioned whether there is a good zoning ordinance for the area. He appreciated the audience participation concerning the issue. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11c. Discussion of Airport Hangar Use and Approval of Policy City Manager Horsley advised that it has become apparent that there are certain aspects of hangar use that are not specified within lease documents, and which require further clarification and Council approval. The issues revolve around what can be stored within the hangar itself as well as the use of the leased tarmac area surrounding the immediate vicinity of the hangar. The other issue concerns the use of the hangar itself. Staff believes that as long as the hangar is being used for the purpose it was originally leased for, and there is extra room within the hangar for items other than aircraft, such as a car, it would be acceptable for these items to be stored within the hangar. Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 10 of ]5 The Airport Commission for reviewed a draft policy and they suggested one change, from 10 days to 60 days, to the time period in which a plane can be absent from the hangar. Adoption of this policy by the Council will greatly enhance staff's ability to control the use of the Airport property and to maintain the aesthetics and safe environment of the Airport grounds. Airport Manager Bua advised that the Airport Commission voted unanimously for the policy change. He discussed the storage of boats, cars, trucks, and tractors in the space not used for airplane storage. The main concern at the Airport is the storage of items on the tarmac. Mark Ashiku, Ukiah Airport Commissioner, advised that a lot of public input was gathered on the issue. The Airport Commission felt that the current policy represented an unfair restriction on individuals. He noted that you must own an aircraft to demonstrate ownership or lease of an aircraft in order to lease a hangar at the Airport. The policy should say that storage of any equipment in the hangar should not represent a fire hazard or nuisance. Discussion followed concerning the intende~l use of the aircraft hangar. City Manager Horsley explained that the Airport Manager surveyed at lease five other airports and found that they allow other things to be stored in the hangars. M/S Larson/Baldwin Adopting Resolution 2001-63, Establishing A Policy Regulating the Use of Hangars Leased at the Ukiah Municipal Airport. Councilmember Libby advised that she feels the wording of the policy is very ambiguous and cannot vote in support of the policy. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmember Larson and Vice- Mayor Baldwin. NOES: Councilmember Libby. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith and Mayor Ashiku. ABSTAIN: None. 10:15 p.m. Mayor Ashiku returned to the meeting. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11d. Consideration of Ordinance to Establish an Open Space, Creek, and Path Commission (Vice-Mayor Baldwin) Vice-Mayor Baldwin stated that he an "Open Space, Creek, and Path Commission" should be established. He strongly supports this change because currently the Commission hears more golf related items than recreation items, with very little discussion concerning open space, park land acquisition, trails, and river access. Mayor Ashiku recalled that when Council last considered consolidation of the Golf Commission and the Parks and Recreation Commission, staff's resources were looked at Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 11 of ]5 and it was felt that the only way to be efficient and to keep the meetings interesting, was to combine the commission into one. Councilmember Libby felt that if we separate the Commissions, we would be contradicting what Council did earlier. She encouraged those individuals who are interested in creeks and paths to apply for appointment to the Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission. It was recommended that Council provide direction to the Commission about the issue of forming a separate commission to address the issues involving creeks, paths, etc. Implementation of the General Plan was also addressed Community Services Director DeKnoblough noted that the Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission are composed of seven individuals, two of which represent the Women and Men's Golf Club. The Golf Course represents 81 acres of open space, of which the Golf Course offers a significant contribution to the walking trails in the community. He explained that issues related to open space and trails have not been in the purview of the Community Services Department in the past. The Planning and Public Works Departments have been involved with these issues. Consensus of Council directed Planning Director Stump to attend the next Parks, Recreation and Golf Commission meeting to discuss implementation of the General Plan with regard to the goals and objectives for open space and trails and recommend how to provide for these elements. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11e. Approval of Resolution Supporting the Bicycle Transportation Account Grant Application and Committing to the Required Ten Percent Local Match Requirement and Associated Budget Transfer Planning Director Stump advised that the City's consultant recently applied for a Caltrans Bicycle Transportation Account (BTA) grant in the amount of $102,000 for constructing bicycle lanes along East Gobbi Street from Orchard Avenue to Babcock Lane. The grant requires a 10% match. M/S Baldwin/Larson Adopting Resolution 2001-64, Supporting the Bicycle Transportation Account Grant Application and committing to the required ten percent local match requirement, and authorizing the transfer of $5,000 from the Planning Department salaries savings to the Special Projects Reserve Fund (699). Director Stump noted that the City should receive notification as to the status of the grant within a month. He explained that the majority of grant covers paving, curb, gutter, and some drainage infrastructure displacement. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Smith. ABSTAIN: None. Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 12 of ].5 11. NEW BUSINESS 11f. Setting Date and Time for Interviews of Applicants to Various Commissions and Board City Clerk Ulvila advised that a News Release announcing the vacancies on various Commissions has been distributed to the media. Staff is requesting Council's direction regarding setting a date and time to conduct interviews of applicants to the Airport Commission, Parks, Recreation, and Golf Commission, and the Planning Commission. Currently the City Code does not state that members shall serve their stated term and until successors are appointed. She advised Council of options available for interviews. After a brief review of the options and the upcoming scheduled Commission meetings, it was the Consensus of Council to direct staff to make arrangements for interviews of applicants to all Commissions and Boards for Thursday, July 5, 2001, commencing at 5:00 p.m. The City Council would make appointment to the various commissions at that meeting. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11g. Discussion of Cancellation of July 4, 2001 City Council Meeting City Manager Horsley explained that after polling each of the Directors relative to any critical items of business for their Departments, it was determined there are no pressing items that would have to be scheduled for the City Council meeting that will fall on the Fourth of July holiday. Consensus of Council determined cancellation of July 4, 2001 City Council meeting is appropriate; carried by unanimous consent of Council present. 11. NEW BUSINESS 1 lh. Discussion and Approval of Funding of Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) Funding Allocation Formula For Cities Mayor Ashiku advised that the City's Selection Committee met on June 14, 2001. They addressed the formula for splitting the one-third cost share of operational costs of LAFCO. The County Auditor interpreted the law as to how the one-third formula would be divided among cities by using all City funds rather than just the General Fund The cities of Fort Bragg, Willits, and Point Arena really don't have the same revenues as the City of Ukiah, due to the lack of electric utility and some of the other operational expenses that the City of Ukiah has in pass through funds. Ukiah appealed to consider an alternative calculation because the Act allowed for the cities to meet and devise their own formulation and division of their share. We proposed a split based on General Fund revenue and felt that it was fairer than considering total revenues. They finally agreed on an alternative proposal to base the formula on population. Based on that formula, the City of Ukiah's percentage decreased significantly. The cities representatives agreed to return to their Council's and ask for a resolution supporting the new allocation based on population of the cities. City Manager Horsley discussed the chart included in the Staff Report concerning LAFCO Funding Methods with calculations based on total City revenues, City General Fund Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 13 of 15 revenues, and City population. The reason why population was considered a potential method for allocation is because it is more stable, cities can readjust their General Fund Revenues, and many times LAFCO changes are based on population. M/S Libby/Ashiku approving funding allocation formula for Mendocino County LAFCO cities based on population. A discussion followed concerning the motion. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Libby, Baldwin, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: Councilmember Smith. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. 12. COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Libby reported that the Greater Ukiah Chamber of Commerce had a membership drive last week and took in 101 new members. They now have a total of 581 members. The membership drive brought in about $18,000. They will co-sponsor with the City of Ukiah for the Fourth of July fireworks,. The City is also helping to sponsor family oriented festivities in Todd Grove Park with food vendors and free day camp which will provide crafts and free pool use. Those purchasing tickets to the fireworks will be able use a shuttle bus free between Todd Grove Park and the Fairgrounds. The Cultural Recreation Center should know by July 2, 2001 if they will receive a CDBG grant. In the 2000 Park Bond Act there was an urban, recreational and cultural center grant and you need a member of the legislature to nominate you. They were contacted by Assemblywoman Strom-Martin's office that she had nominated the City of Ukiah's Cultural and Recreation Center project to receive a $600,000 grant. They will be applying for the California Endowment Grant in the amount of $2.5 million over a two-year period. Tomorrow she will visit the Boys and Girls Club in Petaluma to obtain information about their facility that should help them develop a business plan for the local recreation center. She attended the grand opening of the new wing to the Grace Hudson Museum and the City's Poet Laureate was present. 13. CITY MANAGER/CITY CLERK/DIRECTOR REPORTS City Manager Horsley reported that a draft of the proposed budget has been distributed to Council. Budget sessions begin Tuesday, June 26, 2001 and the joint meeting with the Ukiah Valley Sanitation District is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 27TM. She reported that she received the Grand Jury Report today that included only one item, the City's Parking Lot C. She sent Council a memo regarding an offer on the North State Street Fire Station, which was based on the appraisal that was conducted several years ago. In order to put the Fire Station up for sale, it has to be named excess property and then go out to the public. Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 14 of ]5 She reported that she was asked at the last meeting to look into replacing Council chairs in the Council Chambers. There is money available in this years' budget that is available to purchase new chairs, She will provide design options to Council. 11:17 p.m.: Adjourned to Closed Session; 14. CLOSED SESSION a. G.C. §54957.6 - Conference with Labor Negotiator Employee Negotiations: Police Unit Labor Negotiator: Candace Horsley No action taken. 15. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 11:40 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on June 26, 2001 for Budget deliberations. Marie Ulviia, City Clerk Regular Meeting June 20, 2001 Page 15 of ]5