Title
Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on June 7, 2022. (City Clerk)
Body
UNAPPROVED
MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- -JUNE 7, 2022- -5:00 P.M.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 5:05 p.m.
Roll Call - Present: Councilmembers Daysog, Herrera Spencer, Knox White, Vella and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 5. [Note: Vice Mayor Vella arrived at 5:28 p.m. The meeting was held via Zoom.]
Absent: None.
The meeting was adjourned to Closed Session to consider:
(22- ) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9); Case Name: Unspecified to Protect Service of Process; Court: Superior Court of the County of Alameda; Case Number: Unspecified to Protect Service of Process; Number of Cases: 2
(22-__) Conference with Legal Counsel Workers’ Compensation Claim (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.95); Claimant: Employee - Fire Department; Claims: 149550063, 1895500067, 0695500047; Agency Claimed Against: City of Alameda
(22-__) Conference with Labor Negotiators (Government Code Section: 54957.6); City Negotiators: Nancy Bronstein, Human Resources Director; Nico Procos, General Manager, Alameda Municipal Power; Jessica Romeo, Human Resources Manager; and Steve Woo, Senior Human Resources Analyst; Employee Organizations: Alameda City Employees Association (ACEA); Management and Confidential Employees Association (MCEA); Electric Utility Professionals Association (EUPA); International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW); Alameda Police Officers Non-Sworn (PANS); Alameda Municipal Power Unrepresented Employees (AMPU); Alameda Police Management Association (APMA); Under Negotiation: Salaries, Employee Benefits and Terms of Employment
(22-__) Public Employee Performance Evaluation (Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957); Position Evaluated: City Attorney - Yibin Shen
Following the Closed Session, the meeting was reconvened and the City Clerk announced that regarding the Workers’ Compensation, the case involves three workers’ compensation claims by a former employee with the Fire Department; Applicant sustained injuries to his knee, hips and heart as a result of his work duties; he retired via industrial disability retirement on July 7, 2020; the Council authorized the City Attorney to settle the pending workers’ compensation claim in an amount not to exceed $132,480.80, resulting in a combined complete case payout of $293,645 which includes past payments for statutory permanent disability, by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Absent; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye; Ayes: 4. Absent: 1; regarding Existing Litigation, staff provided information and Council provided direction by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: No; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye; Ayes: 3. Noes: 2; and regarding Labor Negotiators, staff provided information and Council provided direction by the following two roll call votes: Vote 1: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye; Ayes: 4. Noes: 1 and Vote 2: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: No; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye; Ayes: 3. Noes: 2.
***
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft called a recess at 6:59 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 9:30 p.m.
***
Following the closed session, the meeting was reconvened and the City Clerk announced regarding Performance Evaluation, Council conducted the City Attorney performance evaluation and gave direction to staff by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye; Ayes: 5.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 10:17 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- - JUNE 7, 2022- -7:00 P.M.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft convened the meeting at 7:13 p.m. Councilmember Herrera Spencer led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL - Present: Councilmembers Daysog, Herrera Spencer, Knox White, Vella, and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft - 5. [Note: The meeting was conducted via Zoom.]
Absent: None.
AGENDA CHANGES
None.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
(22- ) Proclamation Declaring June 11, 2022 as Doug Siden Day.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read the proclamation.
(22- ) Proclamation Declaring June 2022 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning Pride Month.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read the proclamation.
(22- ) Proclamation Declaring June 19, 2022 as Juneteenth Day.
(22- ) Proclamation Declaring June 2022 as Elder Abuse Awareness Month.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
The City Clerk announced the Public Hearing [paragraph no. 22- ] and called for speakers.
Councilmember Daysog recorded a no vote on the teleconference findings [paragraph no. 22- ] and the CSI Mini Storage lease [paragraph no. 22- ].
Councilmember Herrera Spencer recoded a no vote on the teleconference findings [paragraph no. 22- ].
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested the Home Together Plan [paragraph no. 22- ] be withdrawn from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Ayes; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph number.]
(*22- ) Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting Held on April 28, 2022 and the Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on May 3, 2022. Approved.
(*22- ) Ratified bills in the amount of $5,812,822.49.
(22- ) Recommendation to Approve Findings to Allow City Meetings to be Conducted via Teleconference. Accepted.
Since Councilmembers Daysog and Herrera Spencer recorded a no vote, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: No; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 3. Noes: 2.
(*22- ) Resolution No. 15910, “Approving the City of Alameda Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Plan as the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Including Incorporation into the City of Alameda General Plan Safety Element by References and Adopting a General Plan Amendment Amending the Health and Safety Element and Conservation and Climate Action Element of the Alameda General Plan 2040 to Align with the Climate Adaptation and Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2022.” Adopted.
(*22- ) Resolution No. 15911, “(a) Amending Resolution No. 9460 to Reflect Current Positions and Entities to be Included in the City of Alameda’s Conflict of Interest Code and (b) Rescinding Resolution No. 15661.” Adopted.
(*22- ) Resolution No. 15912, “Amending the Salary Schedule for Part-Time Classifications Effective June 5, 2022 to Reflect Changes to the City of Alameda Minimum Wage and to Maintain Adequate Differentials Between Part-Time Job Categories.” Adopted.
(22- ) Resolution No. 15913, “Endorse the Alameda County Home Together 2026 Community Plan: A 5-Year Strategic Framework Centering Racial Equity to End Homelessness in Alameda County.” Adopted.
The Homelessness Area Manager gave a brief presentation and shared a video.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she and Councilmember Herrera Spencer participated in the February Point and Time Count; Council has seen what homelessness in Alameda looks like first-hand.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Knox White seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5.
(*22- ) Ordinance No. 3322, “Amending Alameda Municipal Code Chapter Four to Comply with Assembly Bill 1276 Regarding Single Use Foodware Accessories and Standard Condiments." Finally passed.
(22- ) Ordinance No. 3323, “Ordinance Authorizing the Interim City Manager to Execute a Lease with Rhoads Property Holdings, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company, dba CSI Mini Storage for Thirty Six Months for Buildings 338, 608, and 608A C, Located at 50 and 51 West Hornet Avenue, at Alameda Point.” Finally passed.
Since Councilmembers Daysog recorded a no vote, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 4. Noes: 1.
(*22- ) Public Hearing to Consider Collecting of the Water Quality and Flood Protection Fees on the Property Tax Bills; and
(*22- A) Resolution No. 15914, “Finding [No] Majority Protest and Approving the Continuation and Collection of the Existing 2019 Water Quality and Flood Protection Fee on the Property Tax Bills for Fiscal Year 2022-23.” Adopted.
CONTINUED AGENDA ITEMS
None.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(22- ) Recommendation to Authorize City Attorney to Effectuate the Transition for the Administration of the Rent Program from the Alameda Housing Authority, who Currently Acts as the City’s Contract Program Administrator, Back In-house to the City of Alameda’s City Attorney’s Office; and
(22- A) Resolution No. 15915, “Amending the Salary Schedule for: the Alameda City Employees Association (ACEA) to Reinstate the Classification of Housing Specialist II and Approving Workforce Changes in the City Attorney’s Office to Add Six New Positions: Three Housing Specialists, One Administrative Management Analyst, One Administrative Technician II Position, and One Director of Rent Program; and Authorize the City Attorney to Fill the Six New Positions Consistent with All Applicable Laws and Regulations.” Adopted.
The City Attorney gave a brief presentation.
Expressed support for the timing; stated renters have been confused about overlapping roles and complexities; the proposed structure improves efficiency; correspondence being from the City Attorney’s office will receive proper attention: Catherine Pauling, Alameda.
Expressed concern about the housing program being managed by the Alameda Housing Authority (AHA); stated the City rent program is controlled by City law and enforcement is handled by the City Attorney’s office; urged Council approve the staff recommendation: Toni Grimm, Alameda.
Stated there has been confusion about the rent program being under AHA; expressed support for the program being moved to the City Attorney’s office; stated the switch will be clean: Laura Woodard, Alameda Renters Coalition.
Councilmember Daysog stated the rent program should be under the AHA; the program subject matter is a natural fit for AHA; he is confident that the City Attorney’s office will perform well; however, he feels AHA is a better fit for the rent program.
Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation [including adoption of the resolution].
Vice Mayor Vella seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she has concerns about moving the program from AHA; noted that she is a renter; inquired whether the City staff handling the program will be located at City Hall West.
The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated there is not enough space to house the program and staff at City Hall.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired the hours of business for City Hall West.
The City Attorney responded that his intent is to have the rent program staff operate on Friday’s for critical matters; stated that he will work with the Human Resources Director to ensure intake opportunities on Fridays.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer expressed support for services being offered on Fridays; expressed concern about the process being adversarial since attorneys will be involved; stated moving away from mediation will be more adversarial between tenants and landlords; the City Attorney currently takes action against landlords; inquired whether the City Attorney offers serves both sides, representing landlords and tenants.
The City Attorney responded that he does not represent landlords or tenants; stated enforcement actions are on behalf of the State of California; the City Attorney’s office represents the people of the State of California; mediation services have been taken over from Centro Legal de la Raza at half the cost; staff is engaging in mediation and question and answer sessions; staff looks forward to expanding the area of work in collaboration with the rent team; mediation is an important part of the landlord and tenant relationship; enforcement actions are viewed as a last resort; the goal is to provide education and mediation efforts first and take enforcement actions only when necessary.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether there will be any change to salaries or benefits for employees.
The City Attorney responded staff has found parallel tracks for compensation and classifications; stated the goal is to keep things the same.
The Human Resources Director stated staff obtained employment information from the AHA and aligned the positions with City salaries and job descriptions; Human Resources will do recruitments; the goal is to bring employees over.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether the employees are currently employed by AHA, to which the Human Resources Director responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether there will be any negative effects on pensions.
The Human Resources Director responded the employees are members of California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS); stated there is reciprocity; the change will not impact pensions; staff will receive the same benefit under the City.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the City Attorney’s office has taken proactive steps towards education; requested staff to provide information on mediation and education.
The City Attorney stated since taking over operations from Centro Legal in January, staff has provided counselling to 227 different landlords and tenants; staff has completed 10 mediations and conducted two remote conferences in coordination with fair housing month; both conferences were well-attended; staff is looking forward to engaging with landlords and tenants in order to educate, mediate and inform.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: No; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 3. Noes: 2.
(22- ) Public Hearing to Consider Adoption of the Community Development Block Grant/HOME Investment Partnerships Program Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Action Plan; Authorize the Interim City Manager to Use Affordable Housing Unit Fee and Permanent Local Housing Allocation Funds; and Authorize the Interim City Manager to Negotiate and Execute Related Documents, Agreements, and Modifications at Funding Levels Approved by Congress.
The Program Manager gave a Power Point presentation.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether any of the funding will go towards bottle parcel housing or transitional homes at Alameda Point.
The Program Manager responded the proposed funds for the upcoming fiscal year will not go towards the bottle parcel or transitional housing; Council previously approved community cabins, known as Dignity Village; approximately $175,000 of unspent funds are being carried forward into the upcoming fiscal year.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether there is any new funding for the bottle parcel or transitional homes at Alameda Point.
The Program Manager responded there is no proposed funding.
Expressed appreciation for the City supporting services; discussed small funding amounts; urged Council to consider allocating General Fund money for services; stated Family Violence Law Center receives funding from the County; residents would benefit from more robust services: Erin Scott, Family Violence Law Center.
Stated the funding supports high schools and delivers mental health services to students in need; the well-being of the community is important to the City; encouraged Council approval: Katherine Schwartz, Alameda Family Services.
Expressed support for the funding; stated the partnership is critical to support programs for older adults, such as legal services, Medicare counseling and education: James Treggiari, Legal Assistance for Seniors.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the grants are critical and go towards services which are otherwise unfunded; the programs cover a breadth of services; the City will see more need for services in the future; expressed support for using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for mental health programs.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Knox White seconded the motion, which carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 5.
(22- ) Public Hearing to Consider Resolution No. 15916, “Summarily Vacate an Excess Portion of Everett Street Approximately 116-feet Northeasterly of Blanding Avenue in the City of Alameda Pursuant to Streets and Highways Code, Sections 8330, et seq.” Adopted.
The Deputy Public Works Director gave a Power Point presentation.
Councilmember Daysog inquired who owns the right-of-way of the parcel being vacated.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded the two parcels are owned by the same corporation; stated that he has been working with Ross Stackhouse of Tidewater Capital.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the owners of the parcel were allowed to close off access to the street.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded the gate was in place prior to ownership.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether there is requirement for the gate to be open as a public right-of-way.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded during when the parking lot was constructed, a soil cap remediation project was completed; stated the City gave the owner the option to either relocate the gate or prepare the vacation as part of the permit; the owner chose to vacate.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the request is from a private entity, to which the Deputy Public Works Director responded the request is from the City.
Councilmember Daysog inquired how many years the gate had been closed.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded that he understands the gate has been in place since 2015, but could be as far back as 2011.
Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the staff recommendation [including adoption of the resolution].
Vice Mayor Vella seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired why the gate was in place and why the City waited until now to decide to take action.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded the actions were triggered by the permit pulled for soil remediation; stated the condition had been present for a long time.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the owner could make a formal request to remove the gate and roadway if the right-of-way continues.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded after Council takes action, the gate will be part of the property; stated the owners will be responsible for maintenance of the gates and roadway area; the City will still be allowed to access the area if maintenance needs arise.
Councilmember Daysog inquired the current General Plan designation for the site.
The Deputy Public Works Director responded there are no changes to the General Maritime zoning.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: No; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: Aye; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: Aye. Ayes: 4. Noes: 1.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
(22- ) The Interim City Manager made brief comments on his background.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
(22- ) Consider Having the City Council Address the Zoning of the Harbor Bay Club. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer)
Councilmember Herrera Spencer gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of having the referral come back to Council for discussion.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Knox White stated that he will not support the referral; noted after the referral was filed, Council discussed the issue and provided direction to staff to address the issue as part of the Housing Element and zoning changes happening across the City; he does not see a reason to re-hash the previous Council discussion; the matter is problematic to reconsider since an application has been filed.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated there are a series of public forums where people can hear from the Planning, Building and Transportation Director; stated forums have been well attended and discussions have been robust; discussed upcoming forums.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she has been able to attend meetings and hear comments from members of the public; having hundreds of people attend meetings supports having a separate hearing for zoning to give Council the opportunity to clarify and take actions separate from the Housing Element.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: No; Vella: No; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: No. Ayes: 2. Noes: 3.
(22- ) Consider Having the City Council Review Recreation and Parks Department Community Events. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer)
Councilmember Herrera Spencer gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of bringing the matter back for Council discussion on the regular agenda.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the amount of meetings a referral has been on can be seen on the agenda; pending Council referrals could have been heard at the Council priority workshop.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the Council workshop was not a regular meeting where normal business was heard; expressed concern about Council referrals and lack of public comment at the workshop; stated referrals should be heard at regular Council meetings; discussed public comment.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Councilmember Knox White expressed concern about statements made related to public comment; stated that he will not support the motion.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer discussed members of the public attending Council meetings; expressed support for hybrid meetings.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: No; Vella: No; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: No. Ayes: 2. Noes: 3.
(22- ) Consider Directing Staff to Develop an Ordinance Setting Fines for Injury-Collisions Involving Non-Commercial Vehicles that Do Not Meet Federal Design Standards or Have Been Lifted/Altered in a Manner that Increases the Likelihood of Severe Injury or Death in Collisions with Pedestrians and Bicyclists. (Councilmember Knox White)
Councilmember Knox White gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer inquired whether the referenced letter falls under the legislative agenda.
Councilmember Knox White responded the letter is not a part of the referral; stated the letter aligns with the City’s Vision Zero safety legislation.
The City Attorney stated Council may provide brief direction for staff to look at its legislative policy and consider whether or not to act with existing Council authority without debating whether or not to provide staff direction.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification about the content of the letter of support.
Councilmember Knox White stated the letter addresses safe vehicle design; vehicles are being designed for higher speeds than legal on City streets; the letter is three pages long.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the letter will be directed at auto manufacturers or federal law makers.
Councilmember Knox White responded the letter will be submitted as part of the rule-making call for comments, which closes tomorrow; the letter will go directly to the National Highway Safety Transportation Agency.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Council is being asked to develop a City ordinance versus supporting State or federal legislation; how the process works due to federal preemption for commercial vehicles not meeting federal design standards; stated that she would like to know where the City fits into the matter.
The City Attorney responded there are a number of preemption concerns; stated staff will need to perform significant legal analysis to see whether there is a way to get around the preemptions; staff will devote significant effort if Council so directs.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she will not be supporting the referral; the matter is preemptive and there are more pressing City issues for Council to address.
Vice Mayor Vella stated the matter is worth looking into; expressed support for staff looking into legislation or other options; stated the City is preempted from taking actions; Council can direct staff to perform brief legal research and provide legislative alternatives; the issue should be looked into; vehicles are causing serious injuries.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed meetings lobbying for federal funding; stated lobbying includes safety matters; the referral is relevant; she has concerns about how to approach the matter at a local level; questioned whether the topic can be brought to the Alameda County Transportation Commission (ACTC); stated the topic seems like more than a quick review of federal law.
Vice Mayor Vella questioned whether Council can limit the research performed; stated the City could raise the matter with lobbyists and obtain feedback to see whether pending legislation exists versus legislating at a local level; expressed support for bringing the matter to ACTC and other representatives.
Councilmember Knox White stated the topic is already part of the City’s legislative agenda; Washington, D.C. found a way to take action on the issue.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the situation in Washington, D.C. is unique.
Vice Mayor Vella stated Council can have staff review whatever Washington, D.C. passes and raise the issue with lobbyists.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the proposed request would require significant staff research; questioned whether staff can look into actions taken by Washington, D.C.
The City Attorney stated staff is happy to follow Council direction; the Washington, D.C. law involves vehicle registration; Washington, D.C. acts as a State, similar to the State of California, which could impose registration regulations on vehicles of certain sizes and weights; the authority does not lie with local jurisdictions; staff is happy to look further if Council desires; Washington, D.C. has significantly more authority acting as a State than local jurisdiction.
Councilmember Knox White moved approval of the Council referral.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the motion includes direction to have ACTC and lobbyists look into the matter at the State and federal level, to which Councilmember Knox White responded in the affirmative.
Vice Mayor Vella stated the matter is part of the City’s legislative package; Washington, D.C. newly passed regulations; bringing the matter to ACTC is worthwhile; she would like to raise the issue with State elected representatives.
Councilmember Daysog stated the referral could be unnecessary; the Municipal Code has standards related to vehicle types; the standards cover the type of vehicles raised by the referral; the matter is duplicative; expressed concern about the City not enforcing the standards in Municipal Code Section 8-6.1; stated the City would be enforcing the standard on many vehicles; many vehicles come to Alameda from off-Island; questioned whether the vehicles will be tracked and fined; stated the matter is handled at a higher level in order to create consistency across localities; there is virtue in working with State and federal leaders; the City does not enforce the standard similar to other cities across the United States; the practical approach is to have the matter dealt with at the State or federal level.
Councilmember Knox White withdrew his referral.
(22- ) Consider Supporting Assembly Bill 1445. (Councilmember Herrera Spencer)
Councilmember Herrera Spencer gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would like the Assembly Bill language provided.
Councilmember Knox White stated the Bill is worth supporting; expressed support for t Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) being used as an example for considering climate change; stated the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) process used by ABAG aligns with the Bill; the matter is an great way to ensure other housing and planning organizations across the State consider climate.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer moved approval of the Council referral.
Councilmember Knox White seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would prefer to see the matter continued and return to Council with the Bill language.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the language quoted in the staff report comes from the Bill; the referral process is to have the matter return to Council on a future agenda for discussion; inquired whether the letter of support can be submitted without returning to Council.
The City Attorney responded Council rules and process for referrals include directing staff to have the matter return for further Council discussion.
The Interim City Manager stated that staff should check for any relevant amendments to the Bill due to the amount of time the matter has been agendized; staff can check with lobbyists and return to Council if approved.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she would support the matter returning; the report can return with basic analysis; requested clarification about process from the City Clerk.
The City Clerk stated the one exception to not returning for further Council discussion is any urgent or time-sensitive matter; this matter was not presented as time-sensitive or urgent and returning for further Council discussion would be the route to follow.
Vice Mayor Vella expressed concern over RHNA reform; stated that she values analysis; noted one of the supporters of the Bill is the Alameda Citizens Task Force.
Councilmember Knox White stated support should be registered without waiting a month for a staff report; Council has taken action on legislation; expressed support for moving the matter forward.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated the referral includes the terms “urgent” and “important;” the language is clear; the matter has been on the agenda for a while; the Bill could have been looked up.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for attaching Bill language; inquired the actions to be taken if the referral is approved, to which the City Clerk responded Council typically sends a letter of support.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the letter would be sent before Council has had a chance to read the language of the Bill, to which the City Clerk responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether it is possible to have the matter return to Council with the Bill language attached at the next Council meeting under continued agenda items section.
The City Clerk responded in the affirmative; stated Council may create a substitute motion and vote to continue the matter to the continued agenda items section of the next Council meeting with the Bill and additional information attached.
Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for a substitute motion.
Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated her motion is to proceed with the letter of support from Council; the language is provided in the Council referral.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by the following roll call vote: Councilmembers Daysog: Aye; Herrera Spencer: Aye; Knox White: Aye; Vella: No; and Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft: No. Ayes: 3. Noes: 2.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(22- ) Councilmember Daysog expressed concern about towing fees.
(22- ) Councilmember Herrera Spencer made announcements regarding a free paper shredding event, a walk, the sand castle contest, a fundraiser at the skate park, and the dedication of the Doug Siden Visitors’ Center; discussed the Memorial Day celebration at Veterans Park.
(22- ) Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed her time in Washington, D.C.; announced Alameda County received $25 million for rail safety programs; discussed a Zoom meeting with the United States Coast Guard and a meeting with Veterans Affairs (VA); stated the VA Medical Clinic and Columbarium at Alameda Point is fully funded; discussed the “Everyone Belongs Here” poster and poetry contest, the Asian American Pacific Islander heritage celebration, the Memorial Day celebration, the Change of Command ceremony and a press conference with Congresswoman Barbara Lee about funding brought to the district; announced the upcoming graduation for Alameda Unified School District.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft adjourned the meeting at 9:13 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger, City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.