Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMin 08-15-01MINUTES OF THE UKIAH CITY COUNCIL Regular Meeting Wednesday, August 15, 2001 The Ukiah City Council met at a Regular Meeting on August 15, 2001, the notice for which had been legally noticed and posted, at 5:35 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, and Mayor Ashiku. Councilmember absent: Baldwin. Staff present: Customer Services Supervisor Archibald, Public Utility Director Barnes, Community Services Director DeKnoblough, Finance Director Elton, Assistant City Manager Fierro, Interim Fire Chief Grebil, City Manager Horsley, Associate Planner Keefer, City Attorney Rapport, Deputy Public Works Director Seanor, and City Clerk UIvila. Adjourned to Closed Session: 5:35 p.m. CLOSED SESSION G.C. §54957.6 - Conference with Labor Negotiator Employee Negotiations: Fire Unit Labor Negotiator: Candace Horsley Reconvened: 6:32 p.m. 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Councilmember Libby led the Pledge of Allegiance. 4. PRESENTATION 4a. Commendation to Sun House Guild Mayor Ashiku read a Commendation to the Sun House Guild in appreciation for their dedication, long-term support, and continuing efforts on behalf of the City of Ukiah, the Sun House, and the Grace Hudson Museum. Nanci Balkin, President of the Sun House Guild, accepted the Commendation and introduced the Board Directors and Museum Director Smith-Ferri, and thanked Council for the commendation. 5. PROCLAMATION 5a. Woman's Equality Day Mayor Ashiku read a Proclamation designating August 26, 2001 as Women's Equality Day to commemorate the great victory of wisdom over ignorance embodied by the 19th Amendment to the Constitution and called upon the people of Ukiah to observe this day with appropriate programs and activities. Jan Ahearn, President of the Ukiah Business and Professional Women's (BPW) accepted the Proclamation. She introduced several of their Board members and thanked Council. Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 1 of 9 6. INTRODUCTION OF EMPLOYEE 6a. Department of Public Works Civil Engineer: Tim Eriksen Public Works Director/City Engineer Steele introduced Tim Eriksen as the City's new Civil Engineer. A significant portion of his work has been in the areas of traffic and street design, grading and paving design, and in the administration of construction projects. Tim Eriksen stated he is excited to be working for the City. 7. MINUTES 7a. Regular Meeting of June 6, 2001 Councilmember Libby noted a correction to page 15, first paragraph, and requested the third and fourth sentences be changed to "She felt by alterinq the Resolution that requires applicants to fill out the application, without answers, we could be leaving the impression we're changing the Resolution to give credibility to something that was done wrong in the past." She clarified that this statement was taken from the verbatim minutes. The next two sentences should read "She also expressed concern for term limits and felt the public has made it very clear that they support term limits and there is a perception of "clickyness" if we rescind them. She did not want that perception with the public." She further recommended that the last sentence in the paragraph should read, "If they have any changes to that application, they can provide an amendment." M/S Smith/Libby approving the Regular Meeting minutes of June 6, 2001, as amended; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: Councilmember Larson. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. 7. MINUTES 7b. Special Meeting of June 27, 2001 with UVSD M/S Smith/Larson approving the Special Meeting minutes of June 27, 2001, as submitted; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. 8. RIGHT TO APPEAL DECISION Mayor Ashiku read the appeal process. 9. CONSENT CALENDAR City Manager Horsley commented on Consent Calendar item 9f "Approval of Renewal of Lease Agreement with Ukiah Wholesale Lumber for a Portion of the Ukiah Regional Airport". She noted that the Agreement is for a maximum of three years, versus the usual ten-year agreement, because the lumber company is looking to move from that site due to the activity of the Business Park. Staff has been working with them regarding relocation. She explained that the Ukiah Airport Commission met last night and they felt that if the Lease were on an annual basis, it would provide more incentive for them to move as quickly as possible. The Commission recommended that it be an annual, rather than a three-year lease. Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 2 of 9 It was the Consensus of Council to remove item 9f from the Consent Calendar and hear it under New Business item 12c. M/S Larson/Smith approving items a through e and item g of the Consent Calendar as follows: a. Approved Disbursements for Month of July 2001; b. Authorized Renewal of the Contract with Salvation Army to Provide Professional Services for Ukiah C.A.R.E.S. Program; c. Adopted Resolution 2002-03 Disallowing On-Street Parking and Establishing a No Parking Zone Along Leslie Street; d. Authorized Sole Source Procurement by Execution of Amendment No. 4 to the Agreement with EBA Wastechnologies in an Amount not to Exceed $24,840 for Additional Soil and Groundwater Plume Definition at the Corporation Yard; e. Awarded Bid for 2-Wheel Drive 1/2 Ton Pick-Up to Harper Motors for the Sum of $15,017.80; g. Awarded Bid for Various Pad and Pole Mount Transformers in the Amount of $115,350.57 to Various Vendors. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. 10. AUDIENCE COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Ashiku reported that the Gibson Creek issue would be scheduled for a meeting in September and the City Attorney will draft an opinion relative to the issue. Paul Andersen, 309 Jones Street, advised that on July 23, 2001, several members of the community, known as the Friends of Gibson Creek, attempted to gain access to an easement located on Standley Street, generally referred to as the "Jim Nix property". A fish hatchery that the City owns is located within that property and Councilmember Baldwin obtain a key to the gate, with the approval of the City Manager. The group attempted to go through the gate to the fish hatchery but was met by Mr. Nix in a hostile manner and he refused to allow them access to the easement. The Friends of Gibson Creek would like the City to explain the easement and if the public has access rights to the fish hatchery. Phyllis Curtis, Igor Zbitnoff and Albert Krauss addressed Council concerning the Gibson Creek issue and felt the public should have access to the property and the fish hatchery. They were also of the opinion that there are serious problems with accessing the trails in the western hills. 11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 11a. Discussion of Improvements to Thomas Plaza Community Services Director DeKnoblough advised that since the removal of the Thomas Plaza fountain, the City Council has discussed various improvements to replace it and enhance park usage and shade elements. A design has been prepared that attempts to recreate the central element of the fountain in an environment where people could enjoy Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 3 of 9 a fountain with shade without obstructing other activities or events that may be occurring in the Plaza. Associate Planner Keefer designed a simple pool fountain with a design that could withstand any potential damage and also fit the current configuration of the Plaza so as to minimize costs. Tree species that are fast growing were selected. Should Council approve the proposal; staff would return with bids and specific costs for Council's approval. Staff proposes to develop the Plaza in two phases; the first phase would include planting of trees and construction of a fountain in the first year. The second phase would include the remaining shade structures around the benches and the stage, as well as additional water elements. Associate Planner Keefer explained that the proposed design includes planting redwood trees along State and School Streets and includes more lawn area and trees. He continued to discuss the plan for a central fountain surrounded by benches. The design utilizes the existing pavilion and continuing the design with a trellis type structure near benches so as to carry a theme throughout the Plaza. He explained the design for misting devices on the shade structures as a cooling feature. William French, Jr., 756 South Oak St., advised that he likes the idea of more trees in the Plaza and felt there is a need for a historical element. He opposed misters near benches and trellis' noting that some people may not want to get wet. Jennifer Puser, 309 Jones St., President of the Mendocino County Releaf, explained that as part of the Trees for the Millennium Project, which is funded by the state and includes 500 trees, 15 trees are designated for the Plaza. She will continue to work with City staff on this project. Ordering the trees for the Plaza with the bulk order for the Trees for the Millennium Project may have additional cost savings. She recommended that Certified Arborist John Phillips determine the tree species for the Plaza. Daniel Dellapaza, P. O. Box 911, Ukiah, opposed planting redwood trees along the perimeter of the Plaza because they can become hazardous. He expressed his opposition to camera surveillance in the Plaza and recommended its removal. Discussion followed between staff and Council concerning the use of a surveillance camera in the Plaza. Staff explained that the majority of vandalism in the Plaza occurs in the restrooms. It was staff's recommendation that further improvements to the Plaza be allocated out of General Fund Reserves. Councilmember Libby expressed her concern with the misting elements and the maintenance costs. She also noted her concern with the abundance of trees proposed. Planner Keefer explained that the misters would not be located over the benches but over the shade structures and near the walkway. Staff is considering planting grape vines at the base of each trellis so they can climb up and over the top of the trellis. As the plantings mature, they would become more of an architectural feature to the park. Discussion continued regarding the proposed park design and phases for construction of Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 4 of 9 the project. Councilmember Larson discussed his visit to the Healdsburg plaza. He also discussed the concept of the misting elements and noted that if they are properly installed and calibrated, they do not get people wet but provide a light fog above, and lowers the ambient temperature around a person by 20 degrees. Consensus of Council was to begin Phase 1 of the proposed design plan and directed staff to proceed with solicitation of bids. Staff should obtain consultation from the arborist with regard to tree species. Director DeKnoblough and Councilmember Larson thanked Associate Planner Keefer for his help on the project. Recessed: 7:47 p.m. Reconvened: 7:55 p.m. 11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 11b. Discussion and Direction Regarding Draft Fire JPA Agreement City Manager Horsley distributed the last page of the JPA Agreement that identifies the Exhibits that were not included in the Staff Report. She reported that the Fire Sub- committee has completed its initial discussions of the Draft Agreement establishing a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) for Fire Consolidation in the Valley. Several changes have been made, based on the JPA Sub-committee's requests and discussions. Councilmember Larson explained that what has not been agreed to, or understood clearly, is the specific definitions of types of equipment and specific legally binding language necessary. He attended a recent Board meeting of the District in which there was renewed support to continue this process and to expedite it as much as possible. The formal agreement is the beginning of the process and the consolidation and actual integration of the two fire fighting units, equipment, facilities, and everything is the culmination of that. He expressed a need for a timeline in that respect. Mayor Ashiku noted that it looks like the committee has made tremendous progress in moving it along and settling all the issues relative to the operation. At an earlier meeting in May, it seemed as though some of the City employees had some concerns and questions and he wondered if they had been providing any input relative to their concerns, or are their concerns basically satisfied. Councilmember Larson stated that it is his understanding that the City's firefighters generally felt that there didn't need to be an integration of the departments, and that the staffing could remain separate. He felt the current situation puts a strain on the Interim Fire Chief. It was of the opinion that the District representatives and the other participants at the Committee level have made it clear that we are committed to that direction. Councilmember Smith expressed concern about the inclusion of the ambulance service Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 5 of 9 and how that's going to work. He hopes that gets addressed in an open and positive manner. He is supportive of the City's commitment to move forward with the JPA. Mayor Ashiku voiced his opposition to binding the City to provide an agreement for advanced life support and those types of services if it's no longer a benefit to the community and our taxpayers, in a cost effective way, or if we cannot provide a high level of service that we were able to do in the past. Councilmember Libby agreed with Mayor Ashiku's comments and asked staff to prepare a cost analysis of our ambulance service. She voiced her support for the work Chief Grebil has been doing. Interim Fire Chief Grebil stated that he clearly understands the direction from the City Council that it wishes to combine the two departments together again and that it is felt the JPA is the option of choice. Mayor Ashiku stated that appreciates Chief Grebil's efforts to try to pull this together on Council's behalf but it needs to be clear to the fire unit that this is Council's desire. This is an important service to this community to be able to bring about a consolidation of the district. It's the most important cost effective thing that we can do for our taxpayers to be able to serve them better. It is his hope that the firefighters will join the City and District in doing something for the community. Councilmember Smith noted that we should all be concerned about what's best for the City, not what's best for individuals and he supports Chief Grebil's efforts. Councilmember Larson pointed out that the committee really tries to focus on what's best for the valley itself, not just the City. It is his belief that there is an attitude among the primary negotiators of doing the best by our community and not thinking about jurisdictional lines at all. He stated that it is important to keep in mind that a big part of their work is not putting out fires, but a majority of the time they go to medical emergencies. A big part of what we're doing and the problems that we face are in conjunction with the emergency medical service that we provide. These employees don't just think of themselves as firefighters, they think of themselves as paramedics and they have worked very hard to achieve that. if that's an appropriate role for them within this context or not, is secondary to our focus on whether we should consolidate fire fighting services in the valley. Councilmember Libby expressed her surprise to see the Board composed of an even number of members. Interim Fire Chief Grebil explained that they based their Board composition on a model by the City of Tracy. By having an even number on the Board, Tracy has found that there is more of a commitment to work through issues rather than be deadlocked. Mary Lindley, 700 E. Gobbi Street, stated that she is happy to see this coming together, however, she expressed her concern for the lack of a timeline. She inquired about the Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 6 of 9 fiscal year budget. Interim Fire Chief Grebil advised that in July, the Board adopted its fiscal year budget. When the JPA comes about, there will be some savings and the budget can be amended at that time. Further discussion followed concerning the District and the proposed agreement. It was noted that any flaws noted in the agreement could be amended in the future. There was a need to stress the commitment by the City Council for the JPA. 12. NEW BUSINESS 12a. Approval of the City of Ukiah Statement of Investment Policy for Fiscal year 2001/2002 City Manager Horsley advised that the City Council is to review and approve the City's Statement of Investment Policy on an annual basis. Nancy Jones, Managing Director of Public Financial Management (PFM), has recommended a few changes, as noted in the Memorandum attached to the Staff Report. She discussed proposed modifications to the Statement of Investment Policy. M/S Smith/Larson Approving City of Ukiah Statement of Investment Policy, dated July 2001; carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. 12. NEW BUSINESS 12b. Adoption of Resolution Amending the Meeting Dates and Committee Staff Provisions of the Investment Oversight Committee City Manager Horsley advised that the items being recommended for reconsideration are: 1) a meeting to be held every six months, and 2) a representative of the City's Financial Investment Management Advisory attend the meetings. The Investment Policy presently meets State statutes and modifications to State law generally occur just once a year, thus a mandated single annual meeting would provide suitable timing for a relevant review of the policy in light of current State law. She supported a more cost effective method of personal interaction with the consultant by having them provide a presentation of the annual investment report to the City Council. M/S Smith/Larson Adopting Resolution 2002-03, Modifying the meeting dates and Committee staff provisions of the City of Ukiah Investment Oversight Committee. Discussion followed with regard to participation by a public member on the Committee and it was noted that Monte Hill, the current public member, has been able to provide significant investment knowledge and good incentives to the Committee. Motion carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 7 of 9 12c. 9f. Approve Renewal of Lease Agreement with Ukiah Wholesale Lumber for a Portion of the Ukiah Regional Airport City Manager Horsley advised that it is staff's opinion that a minimal three-year agreement would be appropriate. She noted that the Airport Commission was unaware of staff's discussion with the Ukiah Wholesale Lumber Company and that the Lumber Company is actively looking to relocate to another site. She explained that the Airport Commission recommended this renewal be for one year. Discussion followed concerning the lease and it was noted that a termination clause is included in the lease. It was the Consensus of Council that a provision is included in the lease that a six-month termination notice could be given by both party and that the term of the lease is for three years. M/RC Libby/Smith Approving renewal of Lease Agreement with Ukiah Wholesale Lumber for a portion of the Ukiah Regional Airport, as amended, carried by the following roll call vote: AYES: Councilmembers Larson, Smith, Libby, and Mayor Ashiku. NOES: None. ABSENT: Councilmember Baldwin. ABSTAIN: None. 13. COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Larson reported that MCOG had a meeting last week and the total STIP funding is approximately $18 million. He has been meeting with a fiber optic committee consisting mostly of County representatives. He is MCOG's representative and Assistant City Manager Fierro represents the City on the committee. There were a couple meetings with industry representatives from Pacific Bell and Adelphia. There is a need to develop some focus and goals for the committee. Councilmember Smith reported that he attended the christening of the Mendocino and gave a speech in Fort Bragg. On August 24 there will be a christening of the Mendocino in Larkspur and they will ferry to San Francisco for further festivities. The Mendocino Alliance will provide the reception on board the Mendocino as they did in Fort Bragg. Notice was received by MTA on August 8 that Caltrans has approved the application for construction of the North Ukiah Transit Center. MTA has not purchased the property and he discussed property negotiations. NCPA will be having their annual meeting September 26 through 28 at South Shore Tahoe. The League of California Cities will be meeting next month and he will attend as the City's alternate. Councilmember Libby reported difficulty in downloading the registration form of the NCPA annual meeting. On August 31, the Chamber will be sponsoring a seminar on time management techniques. On September 7 P.G. & E. and State Senator Chesboro's office will sponsor an energy efficiency workshop. She discussed the residential contractor program. She reported that P.G.& E. offers financial incentives and she discussed the business loan program. Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 8 of 9 14.CITY MANAGER/CITY CLERK/DIRECTOR REPORTS City Manager Horsley reported that the garbage subcommittee, consisting of Mayor Ashiku and Councilmember Libby, will meet during the last week of August to ask for direction on the rates, transfer station issues, etc. She will provide materials in advance of the meeting. She discussed the recent situation in the news whereby a person, under the supervision of the Mendocino County Mental Health Department, was confined to car, unattended, for a long period of time. The Ukiah Police Department has become involved in the matter. Councilmember Larson expressed his concern with law enforcement officials waiting at hospitals for longer periods of time for Mental Health workers to arrive. This could be a growing problem for the City's public safety officers. He was supportive of the efforts being made by all parties. Discussion followed concerning the issues. City Clerk Ulvila reported that she received a $350 scholarship from the Northern California City Clerk's Association for her attendance at Seattle University in July. These funds have been deposited into the City's General Fund. During the past two weeks staff received training on the Folio Program, which is a search engine for accessing information in the City's Code. Further training is scheduled for next week. It is anticipated that the City Code will be linked to the City's Web site within the next few days. Adjourned at 8:54 p.m. to sit as Ukiah Redevelopment Agency. Reconvened at 9:04 p.m. Adjourned to Closed Session at 9:04 p.m. 15. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Marie Ulvila, City Clerk Regular Meeting August 15, 2001 Page 9 of 9