Title
Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on October 6, 2026. (City Clerk)
Body
UNAPPROVED
Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting
Tuesday- -October 6, 2026- -6:00 p.m.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 6:01 p.m.
Roll Call - Present: Councilmembers Boller, Daysog, Jensen, Pryor and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 5.
Absent: None.
The meeting was adjourned to Closed Session to consider:
(26- ) Public Employee Performance Evaluation Pursuant to Government Code § 54957 Positions Evaluated: City Manager - Gerry Beaudin
Following the Closed Session, the meeting was reconvened and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft announced that the City Council met with City Manager and no vote was taken.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 6:48 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
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Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting
Tuesday- -October 6, 2026- -7:00 p.m.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 7:03 p.m. Vice Mayor Pryor led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Roll Call - Present: Councilmembers Boller, Daysog, Jensen, Pryor, and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 5.
Absent: None.
Agenda Changes
(26- ) The City Clerk announced the short-term rentals ordinance [paragraph no. 26- ] was withdrawn and would not be heard.
Proclamations, Special Orders of the Day and Announcements
(26- ) Proclamation Declaring October 2026 as Filipino American History Month.
Councilmember Daysog read the proclamation.
(26- ) Proclamation Declaring October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Councilmember Jensen read the proclamation.
Oral Communications, Non-Agenda
(26- ) Michael John Torrey, Alameda, expressed opposition to elimination of AC Transit Line 19.
(26- ) Cynthia Bonta, Joanna and Juliette Guitarte, Henry Awan and Kris Perez discussed Filipino Island Fest.
Consent Calendar
Councilmember Boller noted that he would recuse himself from the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) ordinance [paragraph no. 26- ] and the ordinance amending rent control regulations [paragraph no. 26- ] since he has a financial interest in residential real property in Alameda.
Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the Consent Calendar.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph number.]
(*26- ) Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting, the Joint City Council and Successor Agency to the Community Improvement Commission Meeting, the Regular City Council Meeting Held on September 1, 2026. Approved.
(*26- ) Ratified bills in the amount of $10,797,924.81.
(*26- ) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Two-Year Agreement with a One-Year Option to Extend with Life-Assist, Inc. to Purchase Emergency Supplies and Equipment for a Total Amount Not-to-Exceed $600,000, Utilizing National Purchasing Partners Government Division Contract No. PS25830. Accepted.
(*26- ) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Five-Year Agreement with Engineering Mapping Solutions Inc. for On-Call CentralSquare Enterprise Asset Management and Geographic Information Systems Support Services, for a Total Cumulative Amount Not-to-Exceed $265,460. Accepted.
(*26- ) Recommendation to Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with Christ Episcopal Church to Operate the Alameda Warming Shelter in Fiscal Year 2026-27 in an Amount Not-to-Exceed $275,000. Accepted.
(*26- ) Recommendation to Accept the Annual Report on the City of Alameda’s Settlements for the Period of July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026, including 1) General Liability Claims 2) Litigation Settlements and 3) Workers’ Compensation Settlements and Related Closed Session Disclosure Report. Accepted.
(*26- ) Resolution No. 16460, “Approving Letter of Understanding Between the International Association of Firefighters, Local 689, and the City of Alameda.” Adopted.
(*26- ) Resolution No. 16461, “Authorizing the City Manager, or Designee, to Execute an Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Implementation and Mutual Indemnity Cooperation Agreement Among the City of Alameda, MidPen Housing Corporation and the San Francisco Bay Area Water Emergency Transportation Authority, and Amendments Thereto, in Furtherance of a $44,550,361 Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities Program Round 9 Award for the Stardust Gardens Housing Development and Related Transportation Improvements.” Adopted.
(*26- ) Resolution No. 16462, “Authorizing the City Manager, or Designee, to Enter into and Execute a Standard Agreement for Stardust Gardens to Secure $15,000,000 in Multifamily Housing Program (MHP) Gap Funding and All Amendments Thereto (Collectively, the “Program Award Documents”).” Adopted.
(*26- ) Recommendation to Ratify an Agreement with Silverado Construction, Inc. for the Required Abatement and Demolition Project at Building 78 for an Amount Not-to-Exceed $747,500, Including Contingency. Accepted; and
(*26- A) Resolution No. 16463, “Appropriating $1,000,000 from the Alameda Point Fund (Fund 290) Available Fund Balance to Alameda Point Fund (Fund 290) Available Fund Balance Project C75400, Alameda Point Fiscal Year 2026-27 Capital Improvement Budget.” Adopted.
(26- ) Final Passage of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Adding Section 30-19 (Short Term Rentals) of Chapter 30 (Development Regulations) to Establish Zoning Regulations for Short Term Rental of Residential Property, Applicable Citywide. Not heard.
(26- ) Ordinance No. 3413, “Final Passage of Ordinance Amending the Alameda Municipal Code by Amending Section 30-5.18 (Accessory Dwelling Units) and Adding Section 30-5.19 (Accessory Dwelling Units Condominium Regulations) of Chapter 30 (Development Regulations) to Update Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations and to Permit Accessory Dwelling Unit Condominium Conversions.” Finally passed.
Since Councilmember Boller recused himself, the ordinance was adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Daysog, Jensen, Pryor and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 4. [Absent: Councilmember Boller - 1.]
(26- ) Ordinance No. 3414, “Amending Alameda Municipal Code Article XV (Rent Control, Limitations on Evictions, and Relocation Payments to Certain Displaced Tenants) Concerning Permanent Relocation Payments to Tenants Whose Tenancies are Illegally Terminated and Reinserting Clarifying Language Inadvertently Removed” Finally passed.
Since Councilmember Boller recused himself, the ordinance was adopted by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Daysog, Jensen, Pryor and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 4. [Absent: Councilmember Boller - 1.]
Continued Agenda Items
None.
Regular Agenda Items
(26- ) Recommendation to Provide Direction on Prohibiting the Use of City-Owned Properties for Civil Immigration Enforcement Purposes and Providing Immigration Resources to City Property Owners, Businesses, and Residents.
The City Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Daysog stated it is important for Alameda because the City is relatively progressive; local governments should stand up for vulnerable communities; discussed how Alameda plays a special role in the history of the United States; stated it is Council’s job to make Alameda a safe space for all people; he would like to codify rules that prohibit the use of City-owned properties as staging grounds from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Alameda has also has a dark history, such as participating in the Chinese Exclusion Act, amongst others; there is always an opportunity to do better and symbolism is important; she has previously discussed what enforcement would look like with the Police Chief; suggested the motion include directing staff to look into zoning at Alameda Point and other buffer areas.
Councilmember Daysog expressed support for the addition.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the suggestions and directions to staff would require much work.
The City Manager responded the topic fits into current discussions staff is having regarding land use at Alameda Point.
The Acting City Attorney concurred with the City Manager; stated the City has broad zoning authority over property that is fully under the City’s control and ownership; Council may impose reasonable regulations limiting uses of the property; staff can return to Council with options.
Councilmember Jensen inquired what the response would be if a federal force was to appear in a public lot; inquired how the public and City staff would be protected.
The City Manager responded as staff report states, Alameda does not get involved in immigration enforcement due to State law and Senate Bill (SB) 54; stated the idea is that interactions with federal law enforcement would be conversational and not adversarial; the likelihood of federal law enforcement using a City-owned parcel is low; he would expect local law enforcement to keep community members safe but with directly intervening.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated there are different ways to protect residents; staff has been active in educating people about their rights by distributing Kow-Your-Rights information cards and sharing resources; discussed Assembly Bill (AB) 1807m which perhaps could provide a basis to provide protection.
The City Manager stated staff has conducted several Know-Your-Rights trainings and similar efforts; there are opportunities to connect with concerned residents.
Councilmember Jensen stated while she is appreciative of having this policy in place, she would not be comfortable forcefully enforcing it; suggested resources be provided to all residents.
Councilmember Boller stated that he has had discussions with staff and the Police Chief about the topic; the City takes the sanctuary city status very seriously; discussed the topic being included in the strategic plan; stated the City’s website has a lot of information and is a resource; expressed support for the item; stated a limited amount of work can be done, as there is substantial federal property in the City.
Vice Mayor Pryor stated the item sends a much-needed message to vulnerable residents that Council supports immigrant families; the item also shows Council’s commitment to due process and a transparent and fair justice system; this action formally acknowledges the cruelty of the current federal policies.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he would like to approve the three bullet points in the staff report with modification to capture the concerns previously raised by Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft regarding zoning.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft suggested sending the item back to staff to fashion a resolution that incorporates the three bullet points and look at zoning changes that can be made to relevant areas in Alameda Point, to which Councilmember Daysog concurred.
The Acting City Attorney stated because of Council’s proposed actions touching on a couple of different areas, it may return to Council in several legal forms; inquired if Council could give staff flexibility, to which Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded in the affirmative; stated Council is mindful of staff’s current workload.
Councilmember Boller inquired whether the third bullet point is also included in the motion.
The City Manager responded staff will have to understand where properties are in order to look at the prohibition; stated the City can use the Geographic Information System (GIS).
Councilmember Jensen stated that she is willing to support the item; inquired whether the resolution will specify how the second bullet point will be implemented.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Councilmember Jensen is planning to support the item, to which Councilmember Jensen responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Jensen inquired how enforcement would work.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the item is largely symbolic; Alameda has excellent public safety departments and Chiefs who exercise good judgement; enforcement would largely be up to the Police Department.
Councilmember Daysog discussed an incident at the University of Alabama; stated if an event occurs, he imagines Alameda Police Officers will reiterate the City’s policy; the City will not have Police get into a fight.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would find less enthusiasm for supporting the item if Council were to dictate to the Police how to react in a situation; the City of Minneapolis would not have been any safer with specific policies.
Councilmember Daysog stated it is up to the City Manager’s prerogative to manage staff procedures.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether staff can take into consideration how a policy might be implemented, to which the City Manager responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation of the three bullet points in the staff report with the additional direction regarding zoning.
Councilmember Boller seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(26- ) Recommendation to Receive Rise Up Alameda (Guaranteed Income Pilot Program) Final Reports.
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(26- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft noted staff needs 20 minutes for the presentation.
Councilmember Jensen moved approval of allowing 20 minutes for the presentation.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
***
The Development Manager gave a Power Point presentation and showed a brief video.
Councilmember Jensen inquired what attributes to older aged participants.
The Development Manager responded staff is unsure; stated there is no statistical significant way to say exactly what happened; flyers were distributed at Mastick Senior Center, however, there were also flyers in other locations, such as the Alameda Food Bank; participants had to be income eligible and older populations tend to have a fixed income, which may be a contributor; staff does not have data.
Councilmember Jensen stated older Americans are becoming homeless at a higher rate than other age groups.
Vice Mayor Pryor stated helping residents pay off debt means more money went to the City instead of a predatory lender; she would love to see this program be Statewide.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed learning about the program from the Mayors for a Guaranteed Income Coalition and the film “Beyond the Bridge” discussion of homelessness; stated older Americans are becoming homeless at a higher rate than other age groups due to lack of a safety net; staff would like to present the results to state governments; Alameda could be a part of something bigger.
(26- ) Introduction of Ordinance Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Lease with Longshot Space Technologies Corporation, a Delaware Corporation, for a Term of Thirty-Seven Months for a Portion of Building 29 known as Suite 200, Located at 1701 Monarch Street, at Alameda Point. Introduced.
The Administrative Management Analyst gave a Power Point presentation.
Stated in the attempt to pursue something ambitious and hard, one can create many opportunities for people; the investments in people will be of long-term benefit to the City and the community: Mike Grace, Longshot.
Discussed her work with first generation supporting them academically and with career exploration; stated Longshot has provided internships: Ann Gonzalez, College of Alameda.
Stated Natel is currently Longshot’s landlord; discussed Longshot’s viability as a good tenant; suggested Council support the lease: Kate Stirr, Natel Energy.
Vice Mayor Pryor discussed visiting the site; expressed excitement about the long-term benefits of the project; stated that she is sure this will succeed and benefit humanity.
Councilmember Boller stated that he visited the site and was impressed with the community outreach and partnerships, which symbolizes hope for the future of Alameda Point; expressed support for the lease.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she spent time with Longshot’s leadership; Longshot has assimilated to the community well; expressed support for the lease; stated that she hopes Longshot will remain in Alameda well past the duration of the lease.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft outlined how this is a great example of the licensing process in Alameda, which allows the City to bring in revenues; stated this type of innovation attracts people.
Councilmember Boller moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
City Manager Communications
(26- ) The City Manager announced free sandbags are now available at the corner of Lexington and West Hope Streets; City staff will be available to assist residents load vehicles with sandbags on Saturday, November 7th; cooling stations are open at all three libraries and Mastick Senior Center during business hours; stated public comments on AC Transit’s potential budget reductions are due on October 14th; announced Supervisor Lena Tam will hold an emergency preparedness event at the College of Alameda on October 17th, and Coffee with a Cop and International Walk-and-Roll to School Day are on October 7th.
Oral Communications, Non-Agenda
None.
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Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called a recess at 8:56 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:14 p.m.
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Council Referrals
(26- ) Consider Requesting Staff to Present a Status Update on the Clement Avenue Truck Route Prior to Making Physical Improvements and Providing Direction to Staff to Develop Other Truck Route Options. (Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor)
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired how the City Engineer’s hands would have been tied had the approach been different.
The City Manager responded it has been a long-standing General Plan policy to have Clement Avenue as a truck route in Alameda; stated recent development and bike and pedestrian improvements in the area can be accommodated; concerns were raised by residents.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed her time on the Planning Board when Clement Avenue was designated a truck route; stated at the time, Clement Avenue looked very different than it does now; the proposal is to narrow the bike lanes; the referral directs staff to present a status update on the truck route before any physical improvements are made to allow Council to decide how to proceed.
The City Engineer stated Clement Avenue has been defined as a truck route in the General Plan; staffs’ job is to implement the General Plan, not question it; if the truck route were to be relocated, it would require a General Plan Amendment (GPA); it will take staff time to complete a study; if an amendment is needed, he would appreciate Council looking at interim options in order to open Clement Avenue.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council’s goal is to receive the best possible option.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the Clement Avenue section at Grand Street will not open until a decision is made, to which the City Engineer responded in the affirmative; stated there is concern about the curved portion of the road on Clement Avenue being designated as an arterial, meaning there may still be larger vehicles driving through; wider vehicles need a wider lane; staff would like to review other considerations before opening the road.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether a GPA would be needed in order to open the section, to which the City Engineer responded in the negative; stated the section is currently closed because, if opened, two buses or box trucks could not safely drive past each other due to the narrow lanes.
Councilmember Jensen noted the road is currently open.
The City Engineer stated it is not currently open to trucks; trucks are currently directed to turn right on Sherman Street and left on Buena Vista Avenue; once Clement Avenue extension is open, the traffic volume will increase whether or not there are trucks; staff is looking at what it would take to accommodate buses or box trucks passing each other, as well as other modifications; interim options could be taken in order to allow Clement Avenue to be open while Council considers a GPA.
In response to Councilmember Jensen’s inquiry regarding whether the Clement Avenue extension has not been opened due to the current configuration, the City Engineer stated per the General Plan, Clement Avenue is the current truck route; if the Clement Avenue extension were opened, trucks could legally drive on it, however, two buses or box trucks could not drive past each other safely, which has caused staff to deliberately kept Clement Avenue closed; as an interim example, the truck route could temporarily remain on Buena Vista Avenue.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether this could be done with signage, to which the City Engineer responded in the affirmative; stated additional striping work would also have to be done.
Councilmember Jensen stated the section of Clement Avenue from Tilden Way recently opened; inquired whether the section hinged on the truck route or if it was always intended to be opened.
The City Engineer responded the section is one-way and was specifically designed to accommodate trucks.
Councilmember Daysog inquired who built the street that connects Clement Avenue on the Grand Street side with Clement Avenue on the Hibbard Street side.
The City Engineer responded it was constructed by the developer; stated building the connection was a project condition of approval.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the design of the street takes into account passing trucks, to which the City Engineer responded in the affirmative; stated the issue is further west along Clement Avenue, where the curves begin near Paru Street.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether Clement Avenue curves near the current location of the Animal Shelter, to which the City Engineer responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether that is the problem area, to which the City Engineer responded in the affirmative; stated the problem is from Paru Street to Balsa Street.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether it could be fixed by addressing the sidewalk.
The City Engineer responded July Transportation Commission presentation includes four potential alternatives; one is relocating the two-way cycle track or widening the road further north, which would require Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) permitting; the community asked staff to preserve the portion of the Bay Trail; it is an expensive alternative.
Councilmember Boller stated Council has less information than normal since there is no staff report attached to referrals; inquired why the portion of Clement Street was originally closed.
The City Engineer responded two to three years ago, the section was the former Penzoil property; stated Clement Avenue was non-existent between Grandt Street until where Sherman Street and Atlantic Avenue come together; the project is known as the Clement Avenue extension; discussed the Skyline Development; stated the extension is complete at this point; he has elected not to open the road because of issues regarding trucks or buses passing each other.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated when she was on the Planning Board, the future of the Penzoil property was unsure.
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(26- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft suggested Council be given 3 more minutes.
Vice Mayor Pryor moved approval of allowing 3 more minutes.
Councilmember Boller seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
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Thanked Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor for visiting the neighborhood and invited the rest of Council to do so; stated there was always an understanding that Clement Avenue would be a truck route; in order to make it happen, bike lanes would be narrowed, and bulb-outs and parking would be removed; expressed concern with Buena Vista Avenue traffic calming; suggested Council withhold permanent changes: Anna Maier, Alameda.
Stated over 40 residents met with the City Engineer to express concerns; the truck route could undo a thriving neighborhood; expressed concern about the truck route making the area less safe; stated wider lanes could lead to more speed; expressed concern with how changes may conflict with the City’s Vision Zero plan; suggested Council withhold permanent changes: Leo Esclamado, Alameda.
Expressed support for a GPA; suggested Council consider other truck route options; stated the current options presented by staff do not adequately address the reality of the street or the transformation of the neighborhood; suggested having westbound truck traffic drive down Clement Avenue and eastbound traffic drive down Buena Vista Avenue: Meredith Levins, Alameda.
Urged Council to take careful consideration before making irreversible changes to Clement Avenue that would reduce pedestrian and cyclist safety; discussed his commute, which passes through Clement Avenue: Steven Powell, Alameda.
Stated Clement Avenue was designated a truck route in the 1990s; the neighborhood has changed significantly since then; urged Council to consider pedestrian and bike safety and to keep the commitment to Vision Zero; urged Council not to narrow the bike trail or shave the pedestrian bulb outs; stated that she is not opposed to reopening Clement Avenue to car traffic: Catherine Powell, Alameda.
Discussed her experience driving down Clement Avenue; stated adding heavy trucks to a street with constant foot traffic does not feel right; urged the City to improve what exists and make improvements where they make sense: Christine Bui, Alameda.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she hopes her colleagues will give staff the greenlight to move forward with the referral and direct staff to further look into the matter.
Councilmember Jensen moved approval of the referral.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(26- ) Consider Resolution No. 16464, “Amending the City Council Handbook and Code of Conduct to Add Disclosure Requirements for Certain Campaign Donations Over $100.” Adopted. (Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor)
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor gave a brief presentation.
The Acting City Attorney stated for contributions of more than $500 by a party that has business before the Council within the past year, such as a contract or a lease, that Councilmember is required to disclose the donation and recuse themselves from the item.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and Vice Mayor Pryor completed the presentation.
Councilmember Daysog stated per campaign finance law, elected officials need to identify the individuals who contribute to their campaigns of $100 or more on the Form 460, which is available to the public; this item takes it one step further so people do not have to search for the form and required Councilmembers to affirmatively disclose contributions.
Councilmember Boller inquired if certain things are excluded under the statute mentioned in the Levine Act; stated that he believes competitive, big contracts, labor contracts, and employment contracts are excluded.
The Acting City Attorney concurred with Councilmember Boller; responded there are exceptions.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the language in the Council Handbook follows the Levine Act; she does not believe it mentions labor negotiations.
Councilmember Boller inquired whether the intent of the referral is to incorporate the legal tests and structure of the Levine Act, to which Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Boller stated the Levine Act also applies while there is a proceeding pending; he wants to ensure the intent of the referral is not to encompass the nuances.
The Acting City Attorney responded as drafted and as part of the Council Handbook, the referral is an addition; stated under the proposed language, donations of $100 or more would not require recusal as required by the Levine Act does for donations above $500.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft noted that she and Vice Mayor Pryor met with the City Clerk, the Acting City Attorney, and the City Manager prior to submitting the referral.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether there have been any previous policy proposals to address this issue during Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft’s tenure.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded that she does not recall; stated in the years she has served on the League of California Cities Board of Directors and the U.S. Conference of Mayors, there has been a lot of talk about eroding trust in government; there is an opportunity at the local government level to tell the public nothing is being hidden; she believes this to be a good policy and it will reflect well.
The City Clerk stated the regulations that went into effect in 2023 set the limit at $250 contributions; an Assembly Bill in 2025 raised the amount to $500.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the legislature sees this as an issue, since they have been raising the threshold.
The City Clerk responded they have raised it once; stated she is unsure why it was raised.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether other cities in California have adopted a $100 threshold, since the League of California Cities is supportive.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she is being misquoted; she came to the conclusion because she is impressed by the League of California Cities mission statement.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether other cities have adopted a $100 threshold.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded she has not conducted a survey of other cities.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she conducted her own research and concluded no other cities in California have the threshold; Alameda would be a trendsetter; if this matter is urgent, she would have expected the referral to have been brought forward earlier; disclosure will allow for more transparency; inquired whether this will be within a year of the donation or for the candidate’s entire term.
The Acting City Attorney responded, as drafted, any campaign donation of $100 or more within the past year would trigger the announcement requirement.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she will not support the item, as there is no urgency and there will be no impact to the elected people proposing the referral; suggested the matter be left for a future Council to address.
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(26- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of allowing 3 more minutes speaking time for Council.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
***
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she will be terming out of her position and is not running for reelection; her co-author of the referral, Vice Mayor Pryor, is halfway through her term and will hopefully run again, meaning she is voting for her own interest as well; the State legislature’s views about fundraising is perhaps not the best example, as they are running in larger districts and must receive larger donations; she did not mean for the referral to be controversial.
Councilmember Daysog inquired what thought has been given to nonprofits.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded a nonprofit operating within Section 501(c)3 of the Tax Code cannot lawfully contribute.
The Acting City Attorney noted the language is ambiguous; Council could consider a multitude of definitions.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether this could be specified later or if the intent is to solve this tonight.
The City Clerk suggested the language be changed to: a single source.
The Acting City Attorney concurred with the City Clerk’s suggestion.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the single source would still have to be identified, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Daysog stated if Council is not adopting a resolution tonight, perhaps a wiser course of action is to return the matter to staff.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded there is a resolution before Council tonight; stated it is straightforward.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether there is concern with replacing the word “business” with “corporation.”
The Acting City Attorney responded he is unsure there would be any legal concerns with doing so.
In response to Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft’s inquiry about the language concern, Councilmember Daysog stated 501(c)4 nonprofits.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Councilmember Daysog would like to exempt nonprofits, to which Councilmember Daysog responded in the negative; stated he is unsure whether the word business covers nonprofits.
The Acting City Attorney stated the language can be changed to person or corporation; the term a single source is regularly used in these kinds of campaign/finance contexts and would be viable.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what language should be used.
The City Clerk responded the language should be a single source.
Councilmember Jensen stated the referral was brought forth to improve disclosure; inquired whether the authors of the referral could share any instances when this would have been applicable.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded items discussed in Closed Session; stated this was brought forth for the future and to hold Council to the standard of conduct that residents expect.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether there has been input from residents regarding the topic and if residents expressed concerns about a lack of transparency.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded the referral was brought forward due to previously stated reasons.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether there was no input or concerns received.
Vice Mayor Pryor responded campaigns donations are public record; stated why would Council not let people know up front to save residents research time prior to a Council meeting; this elicits trust.
Councilmember Jensen stated she has over 220 individual donors, a majority of which are between $100 and $500; this would be a substantial burden on her if she is elected Mayor; inquired why this is coming forward with no input from the public; stated, to her understanding, referrals are intended to be heard without action.
The City Clerk stated Council referrals are agendized items and the public is able to make comments; resolutions have been adopted during Council referrals many times; the process outlines that Council can take no action, refer the matter to staff, or take dispositive action if sufficiently noticed, which it is, in this case.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether the process mentioned anything about urgency or if legislation is necessary.
The City Clerk responded the process mentions time sensitive, legislative matters; stated amendments to the Council Meeting Rules of Orders have been previously adopted under this section many times.
Councilmember Jensen inquired whether there is urgency and no need for additional public comment.
The City Clerk responded public comment was allowed for the item tonight, however, there were no speakers.
Councilmember Jensen stated during her time on Council, referrals have always come forward and been heard later; inquired about the urgency of this referral and why it must be enacted immediately.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated this is a straightforward referral; there is no need to add to staffs’ workload or poll the public on whether government officials should be more transparent.
Councilmember Jensen stated Alameda would be the first city in California to enact such a policy.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would be proud of that.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the language “…shall publicly and orally disclose…” could be added to the resolution or if it is unnecessary.
The City Clerk responded the disclosure will be made at the meeting when the item is disclosed; stated she is certain the disclosure will be made orally.
Councilmember Daysog moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Daysog stated elected officials already publicly disclose each individual who contributes $100 or more to their campaigns, however, it is disclosed on the Form 460; this referral simply takes an extra step of making sure to say it out loud during the meeting; there is no harm to this item.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated not every contribution must be disclosed, just those that involve matters before the Council.
Vice Mayor Pryor seconded the motion.
Under discussion, the Acting City Attorney requested clarification about whether the resolution being adopted will be slightly modified to remove person or business and replace it with single source, to which Councilmember Daysog responded in the affirmative.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Boller, Daysog, Pryor and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 4. Noes: Councilmember Jensen - 1.
(26- ) Consider Directing Staff to Return to Council with a Policy Governing the Sale, Lease or Disposition of City Assets and Municipal Resources. (Councilmember Jensen)
Councilmember Jensen gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the referral is referring to data centers, to which Councilmember Jensen responded in the negative; stated that she is referring to businesses that may include data centers, ICE detention facilities, fulfillment warehouses for large product distributors, among others.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if Councilmember Jensen is aware of the big box ordinance.
Councilmember Jensen inquired if the ordinance precludes any of the businesses she referred to.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft responded it mentions fulfillment centers; stated she assumed this referral was speaking to data centers.
Discussed her experience conducting energy efficiency audits in data centers; stated, as a mother, she has concerns about future detriments if Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers; as an engineer, she winces at the misinformation surrounding data centers; Alameda has an opportunity to take a stand and create standards: Christine Liebner, Alameda.
In response to Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft’s inquiry, the City Manager stated many cities across the Bay Area have been discussing the topic; staff published a memo on the City’s website regarding an outreach effort to collect community feedback on data centers and return to Council with a more nuanced policy discussion; regarding immigration centers and zoning, staff is discussing the need to take a targeted approach to certain zoning in Alameda Point; staff will be approaching the Planning Board, the Public Utilities Board, and City Council with policy proposals in early 2027.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the City is in danger of approving a data center any time soon, to which the City Manager responded in the negative; stated Council has a lot of authority over City-owned buildings and facilities and Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) has capacity limitations; the City is not in the position to approve a data center today.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether it would be good to have a policy in place that would inform any decisions made in the future, to which the City Manager responded in the affirmative; stated the kind of manufacturing and technology staff is seeing at Alameda Point will require brain power; getting the scale of things correct and ensuring comfortability with environmental and social impacts will all be important policy considerations.
Vice Mayor Pryor inquired if the policies that will be agendized by staff in the near future are similar to the referral brought forth tonight.
The City Manager responded that he is unsure but believes there may be overlap; requested clarification about what the referral is attempting to accomplish.
Councilmember Jensen stated the referral directs the development of a new policy; she understands one is already being drafted and discussed; the policy she is suggesting in the referral is an objective cost-benefit analysis that Council and staff can use to evaluate potential commercial uses of City-owned land and facilities; although there are policies in place, the criteria would include potential impacts of any new use on Alameda’s water supply, AMP’s grid capacity, greenhouse gas emissions, and the potential to create local jobs; she would appreciate if the referral was adopted and approved by her colleagues so there are guidelines for staff to follow.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the criteria should be broader; she would not want to limit staff and Council; there is also an ethical component; urged everyone to educate themselves.
Vice Mayor Pryor stated the referral language is vague; discussion of sales and leases always address the number of potential jobs created and whether the jobs are aligned with the City’s views and guidelines; inquired what the referral does that the current economic development policy does not do.
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(26- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft suggested Council be given 3 more minutes.
Councilmember Daysog moved approval of allowing 3 more minutes.
Councilmember Boller seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
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Councilmember Jensen stated the referral is similar to the last, which calls for a public need for full disclosure and transparency; the referral does not address data centers; she does not expect there to be an application submittal for a data center in Alameda soon; the community has expressed concerns about data centers and what is being done at Alameda Point.
Councilmember Daysog responded there is a lot of information here that ultimately regards data centers; suggested calling for a moratorium on processing data center applications; stated there is a gray area in the zoning code; Alameda Point could be exploited.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she wants to ensure Council is making informed decisions; Council does not have enough information today; zoning codes must be tightened up.
The City Manager stated an Economic Development Strategic Plan (EDSP) update is beginning; there could be an opportunity to weave this work into the EDSP; zoning at Alameda Point must be reconsidered; between the two, existing City initiatives could capture the work.
Councilmember Jensen stated that she is happy to withdraw the referral and wait for the EDSP.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired if a motion could be fashioned to move forward and address the concerns brought forth today, as well as what is already being planned by staff; inquired what next steps would entail.
The City Manager responded regarding data centers, staff will be kicking off conducting analysis of power use and available property in the City’s current portfolio; stated there will also be a community engagement component and a policy development; the EDSP is just commencing.
The Base Reuse and Economic Development Director stated contract award for the EDSP will take place at the next Council meeting; if Council approves the contract, staff expects to have a background analysis complete by early 2027 and the EDSP complete by the middle of 2027.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired about the community engagement component and when it would take place.
The City Manager responded it will take place with both the EDSP and the data center work.
The Base Reuse and Economic Development Director stated both include community engagement; staff has been working with a community engagement consultant on a separate scope of work specifically around AI and data centers; if there are zoning changes, the Planning Board and the Public Utilities Board are great resources.
The Acting City Attorney noted the Governor of California signed 7 different data center regulation bills; stated staff will take the rapidly changing regulatory regime into account.
Councilmember Boller inquired whether the City has received any applications from large-scale data centers that would be highly unlikely to be a good fit for Alameda and if any application would come to Council regardless of the direction given tonight.
The City Manager responded if anything came through, it would be appealable and Council would have the ability to make a decision on any land use; stated the facilities at Alameda Point are largely City owned; there is an AMP energy capacity issue; the item would come to Council with a decision-making authority on a lease or sale; figuring out how to get enough power from AMP will not happen anytime soon.
Councilmember Boller stated it is important for the public to understand that their concerns are good, however, are not what the City is currently facing.
The City Manager stated that he would never say never; a lot of process and details have to be figured out when it comes to a data center in Alameda in the foreseeable future.
Councilmember Boller stated that he is glad to hear plans are already underway to receive community input on the issue; inquired whether there is public information on the City’s website about the effort currently underway regarding this topic, to which the City Manager responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Boller stated the public communication portion is being addressed.
Councilmember Jensen stated the information is helpful; she read the memo sent to Council; she still believes these types of guidelines should be in place; when the matter returns to Council, if she is still on the dais, she will push for the guidelines for all businesses that would use public resources, not just data centers; withdrew the referral.
(26- ) Consider Directing Staff to Develop a Policy for Public Notice and Council Review of Agreements for Rent or Lease of City-Owned Property for a Period of Greater than One Week. Not heard. (Councilmember Jensen)
Councilmember Jensen agreed to move the item to October 20, 2026.
Council Communications
(26- ) Mayor’s Nominations for Appointments to the Commission on Persons with Disabilities, Housing Authority Board of Commissioners, and Social Service Human Relations Board. Not heard.
(26- ) Councilmember Boller announced that he attended the 18th anniversary of Alameda’s Sister City in China on September 29th and the Employee Appreciation Picnic on October 1st.
(26- ) Vice Mayor Pryor announced that attended the League of California Cities Annual Conference with Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft and the City Manager.
(26- ) Councilmember Jensen announced that she attended the Welfare Council Luncheon on September 19th, the Central Avenue Bikeway ribbon cutting on September 28th, the Sister City celebration on September 29th, Boys and Girls Day sponsored by the American Legion of Alameda, and the 50th anniversary of StopWaste.
(26- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft announced that she attended the League of California Cities Annual Conference alongside Vice Mayor Pryor and the City Manager, the Central Avenue Bikeway ribbon cutting, the Registrar of Voter’s Election Protections webinar, the Alameda Fire Department graduation and promotion ceremony on September 30th, and a screening of the film “Beyond the Bridge” presented by the Housing and Human Services Department.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 11:04 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.