body,date,page,text,path
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,1,"MINUTES OF THE REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
TUESDAY- - -APRIL 16, 2013- 7:00 P.M.
Mayor Gilmore convened the meeting at 7:03 p.m. Councilmember Chen led the
Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL -
Present:
Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Tam
and Mayor Gilmore - 5.
Absent:
None.
AGENDA CHANGES
(13-151) Mayor Gilmore announced that the Resolution of Appointment [paragraph no.
13-160 would be considered after Oral Communications; the Resolution Declaring that
Freedom from Domestic Violence is a Fundamental Human Right [paragraph no. 13-
169 would be considered after the Consent Calendar; and then, the joint meeting would
be held.
PROCLAMATIONS, SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY & ANNOUNCEMENTS
(13-152) Proclamation Declaring April 2013 as Fair Housing Month.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the Proclamation to Sally Han and Nina Lim,
Alameda Association of Realtors.
(13-153) Proclamation Declaring April 7 through April 13, 2013 as Boys & Girls Club
Week.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the Proclamation to Jeff Miller and Marc Morales,
Boys & Girls Club.
(13-154) Proclamation Declaring April 20, 2013 as Earth Day.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the Proclamation to Heather Rider, Monkey Bars
Owner.
(13-155) Proclamation Declaring April 26, 2013 as Arbor Day.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the Proclamation to Doug Biggs, Ploughshare
Nursery, and the Public Works Superintendent.
(13-156) Proclamation Declaring May 4, 2013 as Paint Our Town Purple Day.
Mayor Gilmore read and presented the Proclamation to Lisa Loverton, Relay for Life.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
1
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,2,"ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
(13-157) Kathy Moehring, Harbor Bay Isle Associates, submitted and read a letter
regarding moving the Harbor Bay Club.
(13-158) Vicki Bell, Mastick Senior Thrift Store, invited everyone to attend an upcoming
fashion show.
(13-159) Former Councilmember Doug deHaan, Alameda, discussed the project
retrofitting the Tubes; expressed concern.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEM
(13-160) Resolution No. 14790, ""Reappointing Joy Pratt as a Member of the Housing
Authority Board of Commissioners."" Adopted.
Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office and presented Ms. Pratt with a
Certificate of Appointment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Gilmore announced that final passage of the ordinance [paragraph no. 13-168
was removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
Councilmember Tam moved approval of the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk preceding the paragraph
number.]
(*13-161) Minutes of the Special and Regular City Council Meetings Held on March 19,
2013. Approved.
(*13-162) Ratified bills in the amount of $761,496.37.
(*13-163) Recommendation to Accept the Quarterly Report on Claims Paid. Accepted.
(*13-164) Recommendation to Approve a Grant of a Nonexclusive Easement and
Partial Assignment Agreement between the City of Alameda and the East Bay Municipal
Utility District for an Existing Water Line at Alameda Landing. Accepted.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
2
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,3,"(*13-165) Recommendation to Approve an Amendment to the Contract with Columbia
Electric, Increasing the Budget by $40,000 for a Total Amount of $320,800, to Complete
the Woodstock to Webster Street Neighborhood Improvement Project, and Authorize
the City Manager to Execute the Amendment. Accepted.
(*13-166) Resolution No. 14791, ""Approve Designation of the Alameda County Source
Reduction and Recycling Board as the Local Task Force Under State Law for the
Purpose of Reviewing and Commenting on County Integrated Waste Management Plan
Amendments."" Adopted, and
(*13-166 A) Resolution No. 14792, ""Approving an Amendment of the Joint Exercise of
Powers Agreement Creating the Alameda County Waste Management Authority.
Adopted.
(*13-167) Resolution No.14793, ""Amending the City of Alameda Management and
Confidential Employees Association (MCEA) Salary Schedule Establishing the
Classifications of Public Safety Communications Supervisor, Police Records
Supervisor, Public Safety Information Technology Systems Coordinator, Information
Technology Systems Coordinator, Communications Engagement Specialist, Senior
Human Resources Analyst, Human Resources Analyst II, and Human Resources
Analyst I."" Adopted.
(13-168) Final Passage of Ordinance Amending Various Sections of the Alameda
Municipal Code Contained in Chapter XXX (Development Regulations) Related to the
North Park Street Planning Area. Amended and introduced.
The City Planner gave a Power Point presentation.
Mayor Gilmore inquired when the design manual would be ready.
The City Planner responded the draft guidelines for taller buildings would be presented
to the Planning Board in late June or early July.
Mayor Gilmore inquired how the design guidelines would allow residential buildings to fit
with commercial buildings in the mixed use zone.
The City Planner responded mixed use properties are a mix of residential use and
businesses which have legally opened over the last 50 years; stated businesses in the
district are typically in buildings which were built as residential buildings and are not
concrete block commercial buildings; the design guidelines and new zoning would allow
lighter commercial uses to continue in the mixed use zone; the guidelines show how
new buildings accommodating commercial uses can be built to look like residential
buildings to avoid inconsistent new commercial buildings in the area.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether a sentence can be added to Table A which
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
3
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,4,"buildings.
The City Planner responded three to four parcels could accommodate a four-story 60-
foot building; stated parking would need to be provided; residential buildings have open
space requirements.
In response to Councilmember Daysog's inquiry regarding guidelines being used to
encourage lowering a 60 foot project, the City Planner stated staff would create design
guidelines which would ensure any 60-foot building is beautiful and replicates existing
buildings, accenting the streetscape; a 60-foot building would only be approved if the
design is consistent with the guidelines for taller buildings.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
4
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,5,"Councilmember Daysog inquired whether scrutiny would be required to go above the 50
foot threshold.
The City Planner responded any building, even if just one story, requires Planning
Board review to ensure a beautiful design and consistent with the guidelines; stated
another set of guidelines would be added to the design manual to indicate the City
expects something pretty special if a building goes up to 60 feet.
Councilmember Tam stated all buildings have to go through a rigorous set of guidelines;
60 foot buildings have to go through an extra level of guidelines.
Councilmember Daysog noted developers may or may not come to Alameda to build
four stories of residential on top of businesses, which could not be done with the 50-foot
trigger; inquired whether thought has been given to the messages Alameda is sending.
The City Planner responded the City worked closely with the development community;
stated the form based code is designed to show in diagrams and words how buildings
should look and feel; the document was created to inform developers how to create a
good project, which will get through the public hearing process and building permits
quickly and inexpensively; the City wants developers to spend money on the
architecture of the building with beautiful details and materials rather than spending
hundreds of hours redesigning a project; further stated the design manual provides
certainty for both developers and neighbors; adjacent property owners have certainty
that only buildings consistent with the design manual will be approved.
Councilmember Tam left the dais at 8:13 p.m. and returned at 8:15 p.m.
Stated adoption of the Housing Element has been a change since the guidelines were
adopted; urged Council to consider the single family homes in the Wedge
Neighborhood: Former Councilmember Doug deHaan, Alameda.
Encouraged the Council to include the Santa Cruz framework and that the final Design
Review Manual Addendum be approved by Council and have extra authority; discussed
density bonus: Chris Buckley, Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (AAPS).
Stated AAPS would like a 40 foot height limit with exceptions; encouraged authority not
be delegated to the Design Review process: Jim Smallman, Alameda resident and
AAPS member.
Urged the ordinance be finalized as quickly as possible; explained why PSBA supports
the 60 foot height limit: Robb Ratto, Park Street Business Association.
Encouraged the Design Review Manual provisions be adopted prior to approving the 60
foot height limit: Gretchen Lipow, Alameda Citizens Taskforce.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
5
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,6,"Explained that the Planning Board adopted the 60 foot height limit in order to lower the
current 100 foot height limit: Mike Henneberry, Alameda and Planning Board member.
Stated the regulations have checks and balances and encouraged moving forward:
Karen Bey, Alameda.
Expressed concern with the 60 foot height limit: Jon Spangler, Alameda.
In response to Councilmember Chen's inquiry, the City Planner stated Council can
direct staff to take the additional design manual guidelines through the public process of
going to the Planning Board and Council for final approval.
Councilmember Chen inquired what assurance can be given that each application,
especially 60-foot structures, would be handled with due-diligence, that the right
process and amount of time would be given to projects, and that projects would be
reviewed by the Planning Board and, potentially, the City Council.
The City Planner responded a Planning Board public hearing is held for every new
building on Park Street; stated projects are thoroughly reviewed by staff; local
newspapers have been very good about reporting on projects that come to the Planning
Board; the community, AAPS and neighbors are instrumental in the process; structural
changes have been made to ensure there is good oversight; most design review
mistakes in the City are quite old and predate the current design review processes.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved introduction of the ordinance with amendment to
include the following sentence at the end of Table A: ""New buildings over 50 feet in
height shall not be approved unless it may be determined by the Planning Board, or by
the City Council upon appeal, that the building is consistent with the Design Review
Manual's special design guidelines for tall buildings on Park Street.""
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the sentence would be better if it states
""Planning Board and City Council"" instead of ""Planning Board or City Council"".
The City Planner responded that he would advise against changing the sentence to
""Planning Board and City Council"" because it would create an internal inconsistency
within the Municipal Code; stated design review is approved by the Planning Board;
individual Councilmembers have the ability to call for review any action of the Planning
Board; Council already has oversight.
Councilmember Chen inquired how Councilmembers stay abreast of what is happening
at the Planning Board level, to which the City Planner responded Council will know
about every new building on Park Street; stated nothing would get past the Council's
notice.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he wants language included setting minimum of 15,
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
6
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,7,"preferably 20, feet for the ground floor.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Councilmember Daysog's recommendation
would be appropriate to include in the zoning amendment or the design review
standards.
The City Planner responded Councilmember Daysog is addressing internal space,
which is included in the design manual; stated the zoning ordinance requires one story
buildings on Park Street be a minimum of 20 feet in height because anything shorter
would look strange on the streetscape.
Councilmember Daysog stated he is referring to a ground floor building with floors on
top, not single story.
The City Planner stated the design review manual includes a minimum of 14 feet for the
first floor; special height can be added if the Council so desires.
Councilmember Daysog stated that he is not asking for 14 or 15 feet across the board,
corner buildings should be a little more elegant than others.
The City Planner stated the special height guidelines would go to the Planning Board for
adjustments; the Council can review the special guidelines after the Planning Board.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion.
Under discussion, Mayor Gilmore clarified the motion is to add the language Vice Mayor
Ezzy Ashcraft read into the record; inquired whether the ordinance would return to
Council in two weeks for the second reading and would go into effect in one month, to
which the City Attorney responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Chen stated that his second to the motion is for the compromise of 50
feet and the language added by Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft.
Councilmember Daysog clarified the language does not create a 50 foot maximum,
rather a 50 foot building triggers requirements.
Councilmember Chen agreed there is a trigger beyond 50 feet.
On the call for the question, the motion carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS
(13-169) Resolution No. 14794, ""Declaring that Freedom from Domestic Violence is a
Fundamental Human Right."" Adopted.
Councilmember Tam stated the resolution recognizes the need to move to a culture of
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
7
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,8,"nonviolence, especially against women and children; a panel discussion in March
inspired the resolution and highlighted the importance of local government's role in
domestic violence intervention; the panel included District Attorney Nancy O'Malley, Bolt
Law School Professor Nancy Lemon, Judge Tara Flanagan, and Alameda's former
Chief Financial Officer Juelle Ann Boyer; the culture of non-violence should begin at
home; Alameda is very fortunate that the Social Services Human Relations Board
(SSHRB) formed a Domestic Violence Task Force and has resources, such as the
Midway Shelter, Building Futures for Women and Children and Police Officers with
specialized training to handle domestic violence situations; about 29% of crimes
reported in Alameda are domestic violence related and disproportionately affect women
of color; thanked Jim Franz, Juelle Ann Boyer, the Police Chief, and Sergeant Wayland
Gee for helping develop the resolution; stated Alameda will be the first city to declare
that freedom from domestic violence is a basic human right.
Urged adoption of the resolution: Liz Verela, Domestic Violence Task Force.
Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
***
Mayor Gilmore called a recess at 9:03 p.m. to hold the joint meeting and reconvened
the meeting at 9:51 p.m. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft left the dais at 9:51 p.m. and
returned at 9:55 p.m.
(13-170) Public Hearing to Consider Approving Amendment #2 to the FY11-12
Community Development Block Grant Action Plan and Amendment #1 to the FY12-13
Community Development Block Grant Action Plan and Authorize the City Manager to
Negotiate and Execute Related Documents, Agreements, and Modifications.
The Program Manager gave a brief presentation.
Urged approval of the amendment: Liz Varela, Building Futures with Women and
Children.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) funds can be used to improve the Parrot Village basketball courts.
Councilmember Chen responded CDBG funding gets smaller every year and the
number of people applying for the funding increases every year; stated trying to provide
safety net core services is tough to balance; after school activities, such as a basketball
court, are essential and important; however, people not being able to afford child care or
rent and having to go to a shelter usually takes precedence.
Councilmember Tam stated that she fully supports the re-programing of funds because
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
8
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,9,"the shelter provides a critical sanctuary for the community; the funding that is being re-
programed for the Boys and Girls Club is a very modest amount and keeps with the
City's desire to help the community develop more community gardens.
Councilmember Tam moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
(13-171) Recommendation to Receive a Report on the 2010 Community-Wide
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Inventory and a Draft Estimated Revision to the
2005 GHG Baseline Inventory.
The Utility Energy Analyst gave a Power Point presentation.
Councilmember Daysog inquired if the target is a 25% reduction over the 15-year period
from 2005 to 2020, to which the Utility Energy Analyst responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the orange line on the chart pointing to 2010
represents an 8% reduction between 2005 and 2010, to which the Utility Energy Analyst
responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether data on the 2013 status is available, to which
the Utility Energy Analyst responded in the negative; stated the reports are a big
undertaking; the City does not currently have a system in place to provide the
information.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether the baseline is being updated and goes out to
2025, to which the Utility Energy Analyst responded the baseline is not being updated;
stated 2005 is maintained as the base year; reductions are compared to the 2005
baseline number; the baseline is being updated to be accurately represented.
Councilmember Chen stated the baseline figure is being updated, not the baseline year;
noted the numbers are actually changing.
The Utility Energy Analyst stated Councilmember Chen is correct; the report is updating
the figures to reflect current technologies; the protocol used to do the calculations has
been updated to reflect more segments.
Councilmember Daysog noted Alameda is susceptible to global climate change and
rising tides and needs to take GHG issues seriously; stated that he appreciates
Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) taking the lead on this issue.
Mayor Gilmore expressed her appreciation for the report; stated residents should know
that the community is very adamant about recycling; the report is a nice way to check
whether or not the community's collective efforts are making a difference.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
9
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,10,"Stated the City has more work than previously thought; outlined changes which are
under the City's control: Jon Spangler, Alameda.
Discussed success in Alameda and provided handouts: Ruth Abbe, Alameda.
Mayor Gilmore thanked Ms. Abbe for sharing the successes; stated small successes
get everyone motivated and add up to big successes.
(13-172) Recommendation to Award Contract in the Amount of $250,000 to Skidmore,
Owings, and Merrill, LLP (SOM) to Prepare the Town Center and Waterfront Precise
Plan for Alameda Point.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point gave a brief presentation.
* *
(13-173) Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of considering the remainder of the
agenda items after 10:30 p.m.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft and Mayor Gilmore - 4. Noes:
Councilmember Tam - 1.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired why the town center map shows a separate
residential area not on the waterfront.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point responded the yellow area being referred
to is not part of the boundary which will be studied.
In response to Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft's further inquiry, the Chief Operating Officer -
Alameda Point stated the area actually overlaps two zoning districts: the town center
zoning sub district and portions of the maritime district; the district is separate because
the area is in the public trust and is State land; keeping the area separate is easier
since the property has additional restrictions.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the town center would have a mixture of
residential, commercial and recreational uses within a convenient walk to the waterfront
and transit services; and whether there would be a range of uses, including multifamily
residential housing, recreational and visitor uses, retail/commercial space, and
maritime/commercia industrial uses within close proximity of transit.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point responded in the affirmative; stated the
current zoning precludes single family detached homes in the town center; the area is
reserved for higher density development in general, but also includes housing.
Councilmember Daysog inquired whether residential could be on the corner area by the
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
10
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,11,"Alameda's ability to get regional funding to subsidize the ferry operations; the
assumption for the foreseeable future is that the transit corridor will remain at the
northern location; however, staff continues to work with WETA about the long term
possibility of moving the terminal.
Mayor Gilmore noted the Oak to 9th Street project received a big infusion of funds;
stated the project could create another set of Oakland riders, which could change things
as far as WETA is concerned.
Expressed support of the firms selected: Helen Sause, Housing Opportunities Make
Economic Sense (HOMES).
Councilmember Daysog inquired how the matter syncs up with the General Plan
amendment process started by the Planning Board.
The Chief Operating Officer - Alameda Point responded the zoning has sub-districts;
stated two sub districts require a more detailed plan: the town center and the residential
area; zoning does not stop with the site-wide zoning; the next level of planning is being
funded; the zoning is sufficient to contemplate applications from potential employment
users.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
11
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,12,"Councilmember Daysog moved approval of the staff recommendation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
(13-174) Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of continuing the meeting past
11:00 p.m.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote:
Ayes: Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft and Mayor Gilmore - 4. Noes:
Councilmember Tam - 1.
(13-175) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease
Amendment with Margaret Su Doing Business As Wonky and Wonky Kitchen LLC
Extending Current Lease for up to Fifteen Months and 28 Days in Building 119 Located
at 151 West Seaplane Lagoon at Alameda Point. Introduced.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Chen moved introduction of the ordinance.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote
- 5.
(13-176) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease with
Auctions by the Bay, Inc. for Three Years in Building 18 Located at 2700 Saratoga
Street at Alameda Point. Introduced.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Councilmember Chen inquired what formula is used to calculate base rent.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded the formula is based on
comparable spaces outside of Alameda Point and includes adjustments based on
tenant investments, infrastructure challenges, building comparisons and similar East
Bay uses; stated Alameda Point rents are consistent with the East Bay.
Councilmember Chen stated the rental market is on the up-swing; rental space is all
about supply and demand; inquired how much current rental space is in move-in
condition.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded most of the spaces are very
large; stated many inquiries are from small users; large space is more challenging and
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
12
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,13,"requires creativity; staff is hiring an architect to review dividing some of the buildings to
allow multiple tenants; short term tenants, such as the America's Cup teams, will be
gone in the fall; most small spaces at Alameda Point are already leased; that she would
provide a more detailed report to answer the question based on square footage.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(13-177) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease with
Auctions by the Bay, Inc. for Five Years in Building 525 Located at 2751 Todd Street at
Alameda Point. Introduced.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Gilmore inquired whether the tenant has insurance covering the building's
contents, to which the Economic Development Division Manager responded in the
affirmative.
Councilmember Tam moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
(13-178) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease
Amendment with Auctions by the Bay, Inc. for Ten Years with an Additional Option of
Ten Years in Building 20 Located at 2701 Monarch Street at Alameda Point.
Introduced.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a Power Point presentation.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the tenant invested nearly $1 million in
upgrades, to which the Economic Development Division Manager responded in the
affirmative.
Councilmember Tam noted tenants need enough time to recoup investments when
making significant improvements; inquired what happened to recapturing investment
costs on the theater improvements.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded the matter is complicated;
stated staff is dismantling the current deal and transitioning to a purchase option with
the tenant; the tenant has some credit for building improvements; negotiations are
addressing the value of the improvements, which will be used as a credit to the
purchase price in the future so the City does not have to put any cash into the
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
13
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,14,"transaction.
Councilmember Tam inquired why the City is entering into purchase negotiations before
conveyance.
The Economic Development Division Manager responded the City is not entering into
purchase negotiations now; stated three leases include a purchase option; negotiations
have not started; conveyance will occur in June; the City should not entertain purchase
options for ten to fifteen more years according to the Economic Development Strategy
to allow lease revenue to continue as an infrastructure engine and support City
operations at Alameda Point; the strategy manages tenant expectations; tenants cannot
make purchases right after the City gets the property.
In response to Councilmember Chen's inquiry, the Economic Development Division
Manager stated a third party property management company, PM Reality, manages the
properties at Alameda Point.
The City Manager noted a Request for Proposals to manage the commercial and
residential properties will go out this month.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5.
(13-179) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease
Amendment with Alameda Municipal Power Extending Their Current Lease for up to
Two Years in Building 162 Located at 400 West Atlantic Avenue at Alameda Point.
Introduced; and
(13-179 A) Introduction of Ordinance Approving a Lease and Authorizing the City
Manager to Execute Documents Necessary to Implement the Terms of a Lease
Amendment with Alameda Municipal Power Extending Current Lease for up to Two
Years in 1890 Viking Street at Alameda Point. Introduced.
The Economic Development Division Manager gave a brief presentation.
Mayor Gilmore inquired whether staff has gone through the storage, to which the
Assistant City Manager responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Tam moved introduction of the ordinance.
Councilmember Daysog seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote -
5.
CITY MANAGER COMMUNICATIONS
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
14
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,15,"(13-180) The City Manager announced dates for an upcoming brokerage event, the
budget sessions, a meeting addressing backyard farm animals and the website
conversion.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
None.
COUNCIL COMMUNICATIONS
(13-181) Mayor Gilmore announced that she, the Vice Mayor and a Planning Board
member attended a hearing regarding changing the composition of the Water
Emergency Task Force Board.
Councilmember Chen inquired whether the seat is for Alameda County or the City of
Alameda, to which Mayor Gilmore responded the City.
Councilmember Tam stated one seat is represented by a person from Alameda, but the
seat is not specifically assigned to Alameda.
Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated the proposal is to allocate three seats to three
counties, and does not include Alameda County; some proposed counties do not even
have ferry service yet.
The City Manager stated Alameda contributes more than half of the fare box revenues;
Alameda is the only city of its size in the County that does not have an interstate
highway; WETA was formed primarily out of City of Alameda assets; WETA has always
had a City of Alameda member on the board; more ferries would be good, but
eliminating Alameda's representation is bad public policy.
(13-182) Councilmember Tam announced that she attended the League of California
Cities meeting and was appointed to the task force reviewing California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) reform; Statewide efforts to ban plastic bags were reviewed to
ensure the law does not preempt local county ordinances like the stopwaste.org just
adopted.
(13-183) Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft announced the upcoming League of Women Voters
""Meet Your Public Officials"" event.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
15
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,16,"ADJOURNMENT
(13-184) There being no further business, Mayor Gilmore adjourned the meeting at
11:10 p.m. in memory of those killed or seriously injured at the Boston Marathon.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
Regular Meeting
Alameda City Council
16
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,17,"SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY- -APRIL 16, 2013- -6:00 P.M.
Mayor Gilmore convened the meeting at 6:01 p.m.
Roll Call -
Present:
Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft, Tam and
Mayor Gilmore - 5.
Absent:
None.
The meeting was adjourned to Closed Session to consider:
(13-150) Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation; Initiation of litigation
pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 54956.9; Number of cases: One (As Plaintiff - City
Initiating Legal Action)
Following the Closed Session, the meeting was reconvened and Mayor Gilmore
announced that direction was given to staff.
Adjournment
There being no further business, Mayor Gilmore adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lara Weisiger
City Clerk
The agenda for this meeting was posted in accordance with the Sunshine Ordinance.
Special Meeting
Alameda City Council
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,18,"MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL JOINT CITY COUNCIL AND
THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY OF THE COMMUNITY
IMPROVEMENT COMMISSION (SACIC) MEETING
TUESDAY--APRIL 16, 2013- 7:01 P.M.
Mayor/Chair Gilmore convened the meeting at 9:03 p.m.
ROLL CALL -
Present:
Councilmembers/Agency Members Chen, Daysog,
Ezzy Ashcraft, Tam and Mayor Gilmore - 5.
Absent:
None.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS, NON-AGENDA
None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Councilmember/Agency Member Chen moved approval of the Consent Calendar.
Councilmember/Agency Member Tam seconded the motion, which carried by
unanimous voice vote - 5. [Items so enacted or adopted are indicated by an asterisk
preceding the paragraph number.]
(*13-185 CC/13-010 SACIC) Minutes of the Joint City Council and SACIC Meeting Held
on March 19, 2013. Approved.
(*13-186 CC/13-011 SACIC) Recommendation to Approve a Second Amendment to
Agreement with Keyser Marston Associates, Inc. Expanding the Scope of Work and
Adding $15,000, for a Total Contract Amount of $89,000 to Provide Successor Agency
Financial Consulting Services. Accepted.
AGENDA ITEM
(13-187 CC/13-012 SACIC) Recommendation to Approve the Updated Alameda
Landing Retail Tenanting Strategy.
The Housing Program Manager gave a brief presentation.
Sean Whiskeman, Catellus, gave a Power Point presentation.
Mayor/Chair Gilmore stated at a previous meeting there was some doubt as to when the
rest of the retail would be completed, which seems to be moving faster than anticipated;
inquired whether the change is a result of the market improving, the economy
improving, or marketing efforts for the site.
Special Joint Meeting
Alameda City Council and Successor Agency
1
to the Community Improvement Commission
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,19,"Mr. Whiskeman responded the market is creating a lot of opportunity; stated Target is
under construction, which is a driver and has generated additional interest; Safeway is
also a driver of activity and holds the key to the rest of the retail; the economy is
improving; things are getting better; challenges still exist; retailers are still cautious
about expansion, but the market has helped create opportunities; noted the Safeway
would include a fuel center just like South Shore; the fuel center would be on a separate
parcel that is not part of the Alameda Landing DDA and would be at the entry to the site;
three buildings are proposed for the entry site, including the fuel center; approval would
go through the Planning Board process.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft commended Catellus for all the hard work
marketing the center; stated that she is very excited to see the list of potential retailers;
her only concern is the Safeway Gas Station; she visited the site; the community is
concerned about the appearance of gateways to Alameda; hopefully, Park Street will
get better due to the new North Park Street Zoning Code just adopted; a couple of
business are being proposed for Webster Street; rumors are a drive-thru burger
establishment is in the mix; the Planning Board is hesitant to add a drive-thru, except
pharmacies which benefit the community; that she is concerned about the appearance
coming out of the Tube; the West End should not look like it is off of a freeway with a
gas station and drive thru restaurant; when the Planning Board previously heard the
matter there was a lot of discussion about not competing with Webster Street; the
Planning Board limited the minimum footprint of stores at Alameda Landing to not
compete directly with the footprint size of stores on Webster Street; fuel falling under
sales leakage surprised her; in the past couple of years, two different gas stations
requested use permits changes, including longer hours, due to not getting enough
business; a Webster Street station is adding a convenient store and wanted to be able
to sell liquor to bring in more business, which was denied; there is a free market, but
agreements regarding Webster Street should not be ignored; she is concerned about
both the appearance of the West End gateway and the competition being added for the
Webster Street fuel stations; she would prefer to see other proposed retailers on the
parcel instead; she is taken aback that the Safeway is a package deal with the fuel
station; that she would not vote to approve the grocery store if automatic approval of the
fuel station is included.
Mr. Whiskeman stated the fuel station is not before the Council tonight; Safeway wants
to include a fuel center; the fuel center at the entry site would go through the Planning
Board process on its own track; the entry site is not being approved tonight.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft stated that she raised the matter because
the staff report indicates one of Safeway's location requirements is the ability to build a
Safeway gas station as part of its store.
Mr. Whiskeman stated the tenanting strategy includes approving grocery as a category,
which hopefully will be Safeway.
Special Joint Meeting
Alameda City Council and Successor Agency
2
to the Community Improvement Commission
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,20,"Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft inquired what is a Safeway lifestyle store.
Mr. Whiskeman responded Safeway uses the term lifestyle to define stores and
describe new markets.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft stated 45,000 square feet is the proposed
footprint; inquired how the size compares to the South Shore and Harbor Bay Safeway
stores.
Mr. Whiskeman responded that he believes South Shore Store is larger; stated typical
stores are 55,000 square feet.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft stated a speaker indicated the South Shore
store is about 60,000 square feet; inquired whether the size would be closer to the
Harbor Bay store.
Mr. Whiskeman responded that he believes the Harbor Bay store is a little bit smaller.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether the size would be
somewhere between the Harbor Bay and South Shore stores, to which Mr. Whiskeman
responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember/Agency Member Daysog stated the project is exciting; Safeway's
lifestyle stores have expanded organic and specialty food selections, as well as an in
store signature cafe and food center; having a lifestyle store allows residents to
purchase prepared meals and better food; having a supermarket of such quality is
imperative, which is why he embraces the strategy and cannot wait to see the
development happen; that he likes the initial drawings and de-linking the gas station;
that he is indifferent about the gas station; proposing a McDonald's might be a problem;
a different establishment, such as Five Guys, might be acceptable; further stated that he
believes the Catellus project has stimulated improvements on Webster Street and the
College of Alameda; stated efforts have been purposely made to improve the gateway.
Councilmember/Agency Member Tam stated that she appreciates the accommodations
and changes made to be responsive to leakage categories; she does not have an issue
with the fuel station because fuel falls under the leakage category; fuel station issues
arise when stations are located near residential areas; Safeway is probably the best
grocery store tenant based on labor history and successes in Alameda; Mr. Whiskeman
indicated Safeway would be a good anchor tenant and would stimulate interest in the
center; inquired why Safeway thinks the location makes demographic sense given the
proximity of the Lucky's at Webster Street and Constitution Way.
Mr. Whiskerman responded Safeway has real experience in Alameda; Safeway stores
are overburdened, especially the South Shore location; Safeway might envision that the
Special Joint Meeting
Alameda City Council and Successor Agency
3
to the Community Improvement Commission
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,21,"Alameda Landing store would help the South Shore store and views the store as an
opportunity to capture additional sales on the West End as well as future growth and
extending beyond Alameda into Oakland; the two stores in Alameda do extremely well;
all grocery stores in Alameda over perform based on an average basis.
Councilmember/Agency Member inquired whether the choice may be associated with
future residential development, to which Mr. Whiskerman responded in the affirmative;
stated future growth on the West End is very strong draw.
Councilmember/Agency Member Tam explained that she recently learned about Five
Guys and In-N-Out Burger; stated that she is not opposed to having a hamburger
establishment.
Councilmember/Agency Member Chen stated that he welcomes Safeway; he has not
heard any opposition; Safeway stores are over producing due to being well run; that he
was hoping for an Asian market; inquired how the Safeway would cut into Lucky's
profits; stated freedom of choice with two grocery stores provides residents with better
prices and variety.
Mr. Whiskeman responded the vast majority of the grocery stores are over performing;
stated Lucky's is the only store currently serving the West End; Safeway provides
another option; determining the impacts on Lucky's is difficult.
Councilmember/Agency Member Chen stated the potential sales tax revenue which
would be generated is exciting.
Mayor/Chair Gilmore stated Lucky's may have a tendency to take customers for granted
since it is the only West End grocery store; hopefully, competition might end said
tendency and Lucky's might improve in the face of competition; Alameda consumers,
particularly those in the West End, would be the winners.
Vice Mayor/Agency Member Ezzy Ashcraft stated the Safeway lifestyle store will differ
from Lucky's; agreed with the Mayor/Chair; Safeway and the Encinal Market improved
when Trader Joe's opened at South Shore; Alameda has other choices, such as Nob
Hill Market and the Market Place; West End residents might be driving across the Island
or out of Alameda; the Safeway would be environmentally friendly and would reduce
carbon footprints; Bayport residents were shown plans which included a grocery store
within walking distance when the homes were originally sold; not having to always get in
a car is nice; sometimes a little competition helps raise the bar.
The City Manager/Executive Director thanked Catellus for stepping up to the plate;
stated that he gave Catellus a hard time about leakage categories at a prior meeting; he
had several lengthy discussions with Catellus's Chief Executive Officer; Catellus has
adapted to meet the City's desires; now Catellus is proposing to promptly construct all
nine buildings; the City will devote resources to help Catellus get the buildings up in
Special Joint Meeting
Alameda City Council and Successor Agency
4
to the Community Improvement Commission
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf
CityCouncil,2013-04-16,22,"Alameda City Council and Successor Agency
5
to the Community Improvement Commission
April 16, 2013",CityCouncil/2013-04-16.pdf